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1 • Thursday, Feb. 15, 2024 - The Elmhurst Independent

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Immaculate Conception grade school moms support book fair This group of ICGS moms with students in preschool through 8th grade got together to volunteer at the Scholastic Book Fair in January. The book fair was a huge success, promoting literacy and raising funds for the school. Another photo on page 9.

SUBMITTED PHOTO Elmhurst Independent

District 205 offers 12th ISBE 5Essentials Survey Students, teachers, parents urged to weigh in on school climate, learning conditions

Inside:

same survey window.

“These surveys will serve as an opportunity for schools to reflect on progress since the last statewide implementation,” said Dr. Keisha Campbell, superintendent of School District 205. “We encourage all our teachers, students, and parents to take this opportunity to share their valuable input and experiences with the District. The results of this survey are an important part of our continuous improvement work.”

The survey is designed to provide a comprehensive picture of a school’s

Police Reports...........6 Classifieds..............16 Viewpoint.................8 Sports................17-18

organizational culture in an individualized report, measuring five “essentials” critical for school success: • Effective Leaders • Collaborative Teachers • Involved Families • Supportive Environment • Ambitious Instruction Twenty years of research at the University of Chicago in more than 400 schools has shown that schools that were strong on at least three of the 5Essentials were 10 times more likely to make substantial gains in improving student reading and math

than schools that were weak on three or more of the Essentials. Strength on components within the Essentials also correlated with increased teacher retention, student attendance, college enrollment, and high school graduation.

All district schools, including alternative schools that fall under the district’s domain, are required to participate in a survey of learning conditions every year. Starting in the 2018-19 school year, the survey was made an annual requirement. It was deemed an important component to

balanced accountability by stakeholders under the state’s Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA), which resulted in the state requiring the survey annually.

Principals and superintendents will receive their 5Essentials Reports in May 2024. Survey results will also be reported publicly on the 5Essentials reporting site in spring 2024 and on the State School Report Card website in fall 2024. An optional parent survey is also available to all

See SURVEY, Page 2

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Elmhurst School District 205 joins the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) in the 12th statewide survey of school climate and learning conditions. The survey provides a unique opportunity for students, teachers and parents to have a voice in improving their schools. Now through March 29, students in grades 4-12 and teachers will be asked to take a 25 -minute research-based survey to help identify strengths and weaknesses in their school’s learning environment. The parent survey supplement will also be administered during the

2 • Thursday, Feb. 15, 2024 - The Elmhurst Independent

• Survey

(Continued from front page) schools as a supplement to the 5Essentials Survey for teachers and students in grades 4-12—results from the parent survey supplement will be included only in the individual school 5Essentials Reports, but only if at least 20 percent of parents complete this survey.

To take the survey, visit survey.5-essentials.org/Illinois/. Just select the appropriate survey to begin.

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Senior Angela Stangarone of York High School’s girls gymnastics team will compete in this week’s IHSA state meet at Palatine High School. Stangarone earned the maximum number of state-meet berths with her performances at the Wheaton Warrenville South Sectional on Feb. 8. The top five finishers in each sectional event automatically qualified for the state meet. Stangarone delivered top-five scores in all four sectional events. She also qualified for the state meet’s all-around com-

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petition by placing second in the sectional’s all-around standings with her score of 37.5. Stangarone’s all-around sectional total included scores of 9.425 on the vault, 9.375 on the uneven bars, 9.3 on the balance beam and 9.4 in floor exercises. She finished second in floor exercises and tied for second on the uneven bars. Stangarone placed fourth on the balance beam and finished fifth on the vault. She is pictured during her sectional performance in floor exercises.

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York gymnast qualifies for the state meet

CHRIS FOX PHOTO Elmhurst Independent

The Elmhurst Independent - Thursday, Feb. 15, 2024 • 3

It’s National Children’s Dental Health Month.

Did you know that dental-related ailments are responsible for the loss of more than 50 million school hours each year? That’s right. Thousands of children miss school every year because of some dental-related ailment. Fortunately, many of these ailments can be prevented through good oral care.

This National Children’s Dental Health Month, make your child’s smile a priority.

Take them to the dentist regularly and teach them to care for their teeth properly.

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4 • Thursday, Feb. 15, 2024 - The Elmhurst Independent

The elmhursT IndependenT Your Hometown Newspaper Locally owned and operated 240 N. West Avenue Elmhurst, IL. 60126

City announces approval of assistant city manager Johnson has served on city’s engineering staff since 2008

Main Phone 630.834-8244 Fax 630.834-0900 Visit us at: TheElmhurstIndependent.com The Elmhurst Independent USPS#022-607 is published every Thursday by Rock Valley Publishing, LLC, 240 N. West Avenue, Elmhurst, IL. 60126.

Periodical Postage Paid at Elmhurst, IL.

Display Advertising: 630.834-8355 Classified Advertising: 630.834-8244 News: 630.834-8244 General Information: 630.834-8244

The City of Elmhurst recently announced the appointment of Kent Johnson as assistant city manager, following the retirement of former assistant city manager Mike Kopp. Kent Johnson The decision was made at the City Council meeting held on Tuesday, Jan. 16 with the approval of the City Council.

“

E-mail: Advertising Department: ads1@rvpublishing.com News Department: Independent@rvpublishing.com Classified Department: Classifieds@rvpublishing.com

Administration: Dee Longfellow News Coordinator Debra Hamilton Advertising Director Pete Cruger Publisher

Advertising: Brenda Garcia

Subscriptions:

The Elmhurst Independent is mailed at no charge by request to residents in the 60126 zip code area.

Out-of-area mail subscriptions are $29.95 yearly. Single copies are also available at more than 80 newsstand locations in Elmhurst.

For home delivery information call 630.834-8244.

Reprints:

Content appearing in the Elmhurst Independent may not be reprinted without permission of the publisher or editor. Requests should be directed to Independent@rvpublishing.com or 630.834-8244.

Postmaster: Please send address changes to: THE ELMHURST INDEPENDENT 240 N. West Avenue, Elmhurst, IL. 60126

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Johnson’s comprehensive qualifications, professional background, and proven track record made him an excellent candidate for the position of assistant city manager.”

– Jim Grabowski, City Manager

Kent Johnson, who previously served as the City Engineer since 2014, will continue with his dedicated service to the City of Elmhurst in this role. He began his tenure with the City as civil engineer in 2008, where he demonstrated exceptional commitment and expertise. Johnson holds both Master’s and Bachelor’s degrees in civil engineering from the University of North Dakota and advanced certificates in Public Management and Leadership Development.

Having progressively taken on more responsibility and supervision within the Public Works Department, Johnson led the Engineering Division. His portfolio included overseeing numerous capital improvement projects and playing a crucial role in the successful completion of 14 stormwater mitigation projects from 2015 to the present day. Additionally, he actively contributed to the policy changes aimed at mitigating stormwater issues and contributed to the success of both residential and commercial development across the City As City engineer, Johnson served as a valuable City Council liaison at the Public Works Committee meetings, fostering strong relationships with Aldermen and the public. His regular interactions with residents on drainage issues, development projects, and capital projects have showcased his dedication to community engagement.

“Johnson’s comprehensive qualifications, professional background, and proven track record made him an excellent candidate for the position of assistant city manager,” said City manager Jim Grabowski, who was grateful for the Council’s approval of his recommendation. “[Johnson] will make invaluable contributions to further enhance the City’s leadership team.”

SUBMITTED PHOTO Elmhurst Independent

Airborne 7th grade girls are champs

The Elmhurst Airborne 7th grade girls’ basketball team swept the competition on February 3rd and 4th, winning first place in the Geneva 2024 Invitational. The girls played well as a team, outscoring their opponents 132-42, over the 4-game schedule. Pictured are (back row, from left): Valetina Turco, Grace Rimington, Brynn Richardson, Gabrielle Coomes, Carys Fitzpatrick; (front row): Finley Grizzell, Gabby Ziehr, Demi Arvanitis, Alex Quagliana. Not pictured: Evelyn Carlton, Coach Brad Fitzpatrick, Coach Mark Ziehr.

Jeanette Andrews delivers Evening of Intrigue A magician since age 6, Wheaton native Jeanette Andrews amazed guests when ECPA recently presented “An Intimate Evening with Jeanette Andrews.” The new fundraising series for the Elmhurst Centre for Performing Arts brought more than 200 guests from throughout the western suburbs to Stage 119 in downtown Elmhurst for an evening of magic and intrigue.

To begin the evening, guests enjoyed a performance from local musicians Mantej Ubhi, Julius Sparacino II, and Lauren Capuno. All three cellists are members of the Midwest Philharmonic Orchestra, playing under the direction of Taka Matsunaga as well as the York High School Symphony Orchestra under the direction of Julie Spring.

To the delight of the audience, Jeanette opened the show with classic card tricks, inviting numerous guests on stage to participate. Andrews proposed the idea of color perception and, while explaining, tossed a red apple in the air that landed back into her hand as a green apple.

Throughout the evening, Andrews mesmerized guests with tricks involving helium balloons with secret messages that magically matched up with their owners, long lengths of red satin cut in half that magically returned to their original uncut state, and a beautiful white rose petal that, to the amaze-

SUBMITTED PHOTO Elmhurst Independent

Jeanette Andrews amazed guests who came out to see her recent performance, held as a fundraiser for the Elmhurst Centre for Performing Arts (ECPA). More than 200 ticket-holders turned out for the evening that included magic an intrigue. Here, she bends the stem of a wine glass.

ment of all, transformed into a raw egg.

The evening closed with a Q&A session that revealed the deep ties Elmhurst and the western suburbs have to the field of magic with Andrews noting that area musicians used to hold monthly meetings on the top floor of the building that is now 136 North York Street.

She also took weekly magic lessons in downtown Elmhurst and represents the rare woman in magic, a trade that is traditionally handed down verbally

or through hand-written notes, another rarity in the age of ubiquitous technology.

“An Intimate Evening with Jeanette Andrews” was made possible in part by the generous support of the DuPage Foundation Community Needs Grant.

To connect with ECPA regarding future artists for the series ECPA presents “An Intimate Evening with…” contact Shawna Roubitchek at ECPAElmhurst@gmail.com. To learn more, visit www.ECPA-Elmhurst.org.

The Elmhurst Independent - Thursday, Feb. 15, 2024 • 5

Alan Energy Services reaches 75-year milestone Company named ‘Business of the Year’ by ECCI; to be feted at annual gala

ing as president of the Spring Road Business Association (SRBA).

Eric Weech of Alan Energy Ser“It’s been an interesting three vices on Spring Road recently got years,” he said. “The community has some news that made him smile. really embraced us.”

Well, that’s hardly fair to say – after all, Weech is ALWAYS smiling.

Where it all began This warm and friendly vice-presWeech shared the history of the ident of operations for Alan Energy company and how he came to be inServices just recently learned the volved. company has been named the 2023 John Alan Macnider founded Alan A. J. “Toche” Terrones Business of Heating Air Conditioning, Inc. in Elthe Year by the Elmhurst Chamber mhurst in 1948. With ambitions to of Commerce & Industry and will be create a company known for customhonored at the 105th Annual ECCI er satisfaction, he instilled his belief Awards Gala on Friday, March 22. that a customer is not just a “sale” but That honor comes on the heels of a lifelong friend. another celebration – 75 years as a Roger Alan Macnider joined his Lennox dealer, an achievement few- father in 1949 and has carried the er than 10 percent of dealers have tradition on. His grandson Michael attained. For that milestone, Weech Alan Macnider joined in 1977 and hosted a Business After Hours event has since kept the same courteous for the Elmhurst Chamber of Com- professional service. merce & Industry.

Alan Heating Air Conditioning “[Being named Business of the was acquired by Energy Services in Year] really shows how far we’ve 2020. come,” he said. “I believe our sucWhen Weech learned they were cess is due to our involvement in seeking a distributor to take over the the communities, sponsoring events, business, he showed an interest. helping out whenever we can.”

“We had both been Lennox dealers A leader in the Spring Road busi- and had known each other through ness scene, Weech is currently serv- car clubs,” Weech said. “He wantBy Dee Longfellow

FOR THE ELMHURST INDEPENDENT

ed to meet to with me because there were certain things he wanted to know. He wanted a promise to keep the name [Alan] and, of course, to keep the integrity of the business and so forth.”

In January 2020, the handoff took place and Weech’s company became Alan Energy Services. He has worked ever since to keep up his end of the bargain -- keeping up the company’s integrity. He now has more than 40 trucks serving customers at any time.

“Alan is a good name [in the industry],” he said. “It helps with employee retention.”

One way to keep employees is to stay ahead of the curve in terms of training, Weech said.

Weech’s business maxims Besides being active in the local community, Weech shared the following principles for a successful business: • Have elevated expectations for yourself.

• Don’t just meet expectations, ex-

ceed them.

• Give the customer the best value at a fair price.

• Do what you say when you say you’ll do it.

• Treat your customers well from the beginning. Then, if there’s a hiccup, you handle the hiccup.

• Treat people – customers and employees -- like you’d like to be treated.

• Don’t stay in your comfort zone.

“We don’t run at our own pace,” Weech added. “We set the pace.”

Giving back In addition to community involvement, Weech gives back in charitable ways as well. He supports Loaves & Fishes, Wheaton Outreach and CollaborAction, an initiative all about social change.

Then one day, came an extreme request from a person at Grace Bible Church, who said the Robert McKendrick family had a broken furnace and, due to the Covid pandemic, they were just barely getting by.

“We installed a whole system for

them,” Weech said. “We paid for all the permits and everything. We had five installers come out and do the installation in one day. The family kept asking, ‘what’s the catch?’ but we assured them there was no catch.”

It was a great accomplishment and a contribution that makes Weech proud, then he received some extra-special appreciation.

“You have to give back,” he said.

“Whatever that is for you, just get out and do something.”

If you want to see for yourself, stop in to Alan Energy Services at 510 Spring Rd. It is guaranteed that Eric will be smiling!

(Editor’s note: At the Independent, we rarely talk about ourselves in a news story but during his interview for this article, Eric Weech expressed high praises for Elmhurst Independent sales manager Brenda Garcia, who handles his advertising account.

Eric and Brenda are both are active in the Spring Road Business Association. Eric said, “She’s the kind of person, like me, who is still on the job after 5 p.m. I like that.”)

DEE LONGFELLOW PHOTO Elmhurst Independent

This is the sign on the wall at Alan Energy Services, which clearly states the company’s mission statement. “We don’t run at our own pace,” said VP of operations Eric Weech. “We set the pace.”

DEE LONGFELLOW PHOTO Elmhurst Independent

At the recent State of the City address, ECCI president and CEO John R. Quigley (standing, right) greets Eric Weech of Alan Energy Services, who was recently named the 2023 A. J. “Toche” Terrones Business of the Year by the Elmhurst Chamber of Commerce & Industry (ECCI). The company will be honored at the 105th Annual ECCI Awards Gala on Friday, March 22.

ECCI PHOTO Elmhurst Independent

In honor of the company’s 75th year, Alan Energy Services hosted an after-hours event for the Elmhurst Chamber of Commerce & Industry. Pictured here are (from left): Elmhurst Mayor Scott Levin, members of the Macnider family who originally owned Alan Heating & Air Conditioning, Eric Weech and ECCI director Ken Bartels. “You have to give back [to the community],” Weech said. “Whatever that is for you, just get out and do something.”

6 • Thursday, Feb. 15, 2024 - The Elmhurst Independent

Police beat

a traffic stop near Route 83 and Lake at 7:25 tal reported an unknown suspect removed sevp.m. eral items from a coffee shop in the hospital and left without paying. Pending investigation.

A victim in the 900 block of S. Stratford told Harassment, threats police he sent money to a subject who posted a couch for sale on Facebook Marketplace. The Dec. 7 A victim in the 300 block of E. Parkview victim never received the couch. told police he met an unknown suspect on a dating app and sent the suspect explicit photos Jan. 31-Feb. 1 of himself. Once the victim sent the photos, the A complainant at a business in the 500 block suspect requested money through Cash App or of N. Michigan stated an unknown suspect(s) his photos would be distributed. An investiga- cut the lock to a gated fence and removed a tion is pending. flatbed trailer from the parking lot. The trailer was hooked up to the listed suspect’s vehicle.

The Elmhurst Police Department recently reported the following arrests and citations.

Persons charged with domestic battery are not named in order to protect the privacy of victims.

Readers are reminded that an arrest does not constitute a conviction, and that subjects are considered innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law. Juveniles age 17-or-younger are not named.

Battery Feb. 5 Lacy Brown, 68, of Chicago, was charged with two counts of battery in the 100 block of N. York. Police said officers responded to the above location for the report of a fight in progress. Upon police arrival, police said the victim related Brown began punching him as he passed Brown while leaving a theater.

Feb. 3 Police said that subsequent to a report of a suspicious person in the 900 block of S. Riverside at 9:55 a.m., officers made contact with a victim who related she was battered by an unknown suspect. The victim refused to provide any further information and was released from the scene.

Police said that subsequent to a report of a disturbance in the 100 block of E. Schiller at 7:24 p.m., a complainant reported the suspect pushed him, causing him to fall. The suspect denied pushing the complainant. No complaints were signed due to conflicting statements from both parties.

Feb. 1 A victim near Route 83 and St. Charles told police at 9:41 p.m. that subsequent to an argument with her Lyft driver, while exiting the vehicle, the driver ran over her foot. An investigation is pending.

Criminal damage Feb. 5-6 A victim at a hotel in the 400 block of W. Lake told police she believes a suspect punctured all four of her vehicle’s tires and broke the driver side mirror sometime overnight. An investigation is pending.

Feb. 2-5 A reporting officer responded to 300 block of W. Commonwealth for the report of damage to property. An unknown suspect(s) drove on the baseball field and made impressions in the sand. An investigation is pending.

Domestic battery, domestic incident, disorderly conduct, disturbance, dispute Feb. 7 A 38-year-old Elmhurst man was charged with two counts of domestic battery in the 200 block of E. Columbia at 7:36 p.m. Police said a victim reported that while trying to record with her phone, the suspect hit the phone out of her hand.

A 37-year-old woman from Worth, Ill., was charged with domestic battery at a hotel in the 900 block of S. Riverside. Police said a victim reported the suspect spit in his face following a verbal argument.

Feb. 3 A 32-year-old Elmhurst man was charged with endangering a life of a child and two counts of domestic battery in the 600 block of S. Euclid at 1:17 a.m.

CALL 800-222-TIPS Feb. 2 A 35-year-old Elmhurst man was charged with two counts of domestic battery in the 900 block of Kirk at 6 a.m. Police said a victim reported the suspect struck her.

Feb. 1 Police said that subsequent to a call for a disturbance at a hotel in the 900 block of Riverside at 12:45 a.m., a victim was located inside a hotel room with signs of physical injury. The suspect, a 31-year-old Westmont man, had fled the scene and was later located in Villa Park. Upon investigation, the victim was found to be in violation of a valid order of protection. The suspect was charged with domestic battery, unlawful restraint and robbery.

The victim was charged with violation of an order of protection.

DUI, DUI-drugs, transportation of open alcohol, possession of open alcohol, consumption of alcohol by a minor Feb. 5 Ryan Elliott, 40, of Arlington Heights, was charged with DUI, improper lane usage, speeding and no insurance near Lake and Route 83 at 11:48 p.m.

Marco Gomez Xinic, 22, of Addison, was charged with DUI and improper lane usage subsequent to a traffic stop near North and I-290 at 3:10 a.m.

Feb. 4 Marco Avila Cruz, 49, of Northlake, was charged with DUI, illegal transportation of open alcohol, improper lighting and no insurance subsequent to a traffic stop near Roosevelt and Route 83 at 1:13 a.m.

Tynieshia Tate, 30, of Rockford, was charged with DUI, improper lane usage and failure to signal subsequent to a traffic stop near North and Berteau at 2:11 a.m.

Feb. 2 Juan Munoz, 36, of Villa Park, was charged with DUI, disobeying a traffic control device and illegal stopping where prohibited near Route 83 and North at 11:45 p.m.

Feb. 1 Thomas Jones, 49, of Des Plaines, was charged with DUI, failure to give information after striking a vehicle and failure to reduce speed to avoid an accident near Adell and Park at 9:08 p.m.

Wilson Giron Miguel, 21, of Elmhurst, was issued citations for improper display of registration, tinted windows, loud muffler and open alcohol, while Edilson Pascual-Garcia, 24, of Villa Park, a passenger in the vehicle, was issued a citation for open alcohol subsequent to

Identity theft, fraud, forgery

Violation of an According to information provided by the order of protection

Elmhurst Police Department, police reported Feb. 2 three incidents of identity theft or fraud.

Ramone Pierce, 25, of Bellwood, was charged with violation of an order of protection at 4:36 p.m. Police said a victim reported Possession of Pierce was in violation of an order of protection after Pierce contacted her via social mecannabis in a vehicle According to information provided last dia. week by the Elmhurst Police Department, police reported one incident of possession of cannabis by either the driver of a vehicle or Warrant arrest a passenger: London Edwards, 20, of Broad- Feb. 7 view, near Myrtle and York at 10 p.m. Feb. 2.

Police said that subsequent to a traffic stop near York and Crescent at 5:22 p.m., Russell Gracik, 64, of Elmhurst, was found to have an Theft, retail theft, active warrant out of the DuPage County Sheriff’s Office. According to police, the suspect burglary, attempted failed to comply with officers and fled from scene. He was later taken into custody and theft or burglary, forgery, the was transported to the police station. Gracik was charged with obstructing a police officer, deceptive practice, suspended registration, improper lighting on obstruction, robbery the vehicle and no insurance.

Feb. 3 Luis Arias-Torres, 21, and John Velan- Feb. 3 Police said that subsequent to a traffic stop dia-Flores, 33, both of College Point, N.Y., were charged with retail theft and burglary at near Clinton and North at 12:40 p.m., Michael a store in the 300 block of S. Route 83 at 6:26 Turnipseed, 25, of Bellwood, a passenger in a p.m. Velandia-Flores also was charged with no vehicle, was found to have a warrant out of the DuPage County Sheriff’s Office. valid driver’s license.

A complainant at a store in the 300 block of S. Route 83 reported an unknown suspect Feb. 2 Police said that subsequent to a report of an exited the store with unpaid merchandise. This unwanted subject in the 800 block of S. Rivercase is pending investigation. side, Miranda Grocesley, 32, of Willowbrook, was found to have a warrant out of DeKalb Feb. 2 A complainant at Edward-Elmhurst Hospi- County.

Addison man accused of aggravated DUI, fleeing and eluding DuPage County State’s Attorney Robert Berlin and Addison Chief of Police Roy Selvik have announced that Judge Joshua Dieden granted the state’s motion to deny pre-trial release for an Addison man accused of leading police on a high-speed chase after he had been drinking.

Ivan Carrillo, 25, appeared at First Appearance Court and is charged with one count of aggravated fleeing and eluding (Class 3 felony), one count of aggravated DUI (Class 4 felony) and one count of aggravated driving while license suspended (Class 4 felony) and a dozen misdemeanor and petty traffic offenses including reckless driving and unlawful possession of cannabis by driver.

On Thursday, Feb. 8 at approximately 10 p.m., Addison police officers on patrol entered a shopping center parking lot located in the 100 block of N. Swift Road where they allegedly observed an individual, later identified as Carrillo, exit Game Time 190 Bar and Video Gaming, enter a 2002 Toyota Camry and drive away.

A short time later, officers allegedly observed Carrillo disobey a red light at Lake Street and John F. Kennedy Blvd. It is alleged that Carrillo then accelerated at a high rate of speed on Kennedy Blvd. onto westbound Army

Trail Rd., where he disobeyed a red light at Mill Road before entering northbound I-355.

Officers pursued Carrillo with their emergency lights and sirens onto northbound I-355 where Carrillo allegedly reached speeds of approximately 95 mph while weaving in and out of traffic. Officers ultimately terminated pursuit due to safety concerns.

A short time later, at approximately 10:36 p.m., officers observed Carrillo jogging through a park near his home. He was taken into custody at that time. It is alleged that at the time of his arrest, Carrillo’s eyes were glassy and bloodshot, his speech was slow and there was an odor of alcohol emanating from his breath.

“The allegations that Mr. Carrillo not only led police on a high-speed chase, but did so after he had been drinking, are outrageous,” Berlin said. “Our public roadways are used by hundreds of thousands of people each day and we will not tolerate any type of behavior that puts innocent motorists at risk. Thankfully, Mr. Carrillo’s alleged actions did not harm anyone.

I thank the Addison Police Department for their work and good judgement on this case.”

“Mr. Carrillo put lives in jeopardy with his reckless actions and complete disregard for the safety and well-being of others” Selvik said.

The Elmhurst Independent - Thursday, Feb. 15, 2024 • 7

ECAF celebrates 30 years of impact with 90’s-themed fundraiser event

Since its inception in 1993, ECAF and community spirit. Guests will sorships, offering different levels of vices. Join us as we celebrate the Sponsors, has been at the forefront of provid- enjoy an evening filled with dining, recognition and benefits. Individual past, present, and future of our work financial assistance to families an open bar, and exciting entertain- tickets are also available for those for the children and families of Elattendees sought ing with children suffering from severe ment, all themed to reminisce about who wish to join in this noble cause. mhurst. the foundation’s founding year, For more information and to purThe funds raised from this event 1993. The event will also feature a will be instrumental in continuing chase tickets or sponsorships, please 90’s cover band “Nerdvana” and a and expanding ECAF’s vital ser- visit ECAF’s Fundraiser Page. silent auction, where attendees can bid on a variety of exclusive items and experiences.

130 W Vallette | Elmhurst Various sponsorship opportuMamaMariasElmhurst.com nities are available, ranging from Platinum to Silent Auction Spon449397

medical and emotional challenges.

Our mission has been to alleviate the financial strains that accompany such challenges, ensuring that children receive the best possible care without undue stress on their families.

This landmark celebration promises to be a night of joy, reflection,

630-832-0555

GMTT set to perform ‘Murder on the DeLorean Express’ Actress’s pregnancy includes surprise gender reveal

“Is it a girl, or a boy?”

That’s one of the surprising questions theatergoers will be asking as they time travel through GreenMan Theatre’s 2024 murder mystery dinner, “Murder on the DeLorean Express,” to be held over the last weekend in Feb. and the first weekend in March.

In “Murder on the DeLorean Express,” Doc Green and Murty have been friends across time. But when Murty’s marriage is ending, Doc Green realizes he’s to blame, and he must travel back in time to Murty’s wedding to sever his friendship with Murty forever. But changing the past results in…MURDER! Can Doc Green rescue Murty’s marriage? If he does, will Murty lose his best friend forever?

The parody’s pregnant surprise will occur because actor Cayley

D’Anna, who will play Young Jen, will be more than seven months pregnant as she takes the stage.

Why audition during her pregnancy?

“I just enjoy doing these shows so much and I’ve worked with Justin Vidovic [the play’s writer and director] many times,” she said.

“Besides, this might be the last show I’ll be able to do for a bit!”

Now in her first-ever pregnancy, D’Anna’s baby is due on Mother’s Day. To accommodate D’Anna’s pregnancy, Vidovic rewrote the storyline for her character.

“As the play progresses, we get to meet Young Jen’s baby 30 years in the future and see how she turns out,” Vidovic said. (In real life, D’Anna is having a boy.)

“Murder on the DeLorean Express” will be performed at Ange-

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any $15 pizza purchase

lo’s Ristorante in Elmhurst at 247 N. York Rd. Performances are Friday and Saturday, Feb. 23, 24 and Friday and Saturday, March 1, 2 at 7 p.m., and Sunday, March 3 at 6 p.m.

Tickets are $57 each and include the show and an Italian dinner. Cash bar and a chance to mingle with the cast begins one hour before curtain.

There is ample free parking available, but seating is limited. Tickets for the event must be purchased in advance.

Please visit greenmantheatre.org for ticket information or call 630464-2646. A popular event, dinner theatre performances like this one typically sell out early.

447 N York Street Elmhurst, IL 60126-2003 Bus: 630-832-0182 info@brianstolper.com www.brianstolper.com

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Myopia is the medical term for nearsightedness, which results in blurry distance vision. Myopia cannot be cured or reversed, but it can be managed and slowed. When myopia is diagnosed during childhood, myopia management can be used to slow the onset and progression of myopia. Myopia in children can progress rapidly, and the younger a child is diagnosed, the greater their risk is of developing high myopia (severe nearsightedness). Single-vision prescription eyeglasses can improve nearsightedness but do not slow the progression of myopia. Instead, myopia management contact lenses and prescription eye drops are used to slow childhood myopia. Certain types of contacts are FDA-approved for myopia control, while atropine eye drops administered at bedtime can help slow myopia progression. For children who need them, wearing glasses is crucial to ensuring they can learn to the best of their ability. Getting your child to actually wear their glasses can seem like a tall order. If you have a young child, start by letting them pick out frames they love. Whether it’s a routine, medical, or even pediatric examination, everyone can find the care they need here at SKOWRON EYE CARE. To schedule an appointment, please call us today.

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The Elmhurst Children’s Assistance Foundation (ECAF) has announced its 30th Anniversary Fundraiser Party, marking three decades of dedicated service to the children and families of Elmhurst. This momentous event is set to take place at the River Forest Country Club, on Saturday, March 2.

8 • Thursday, Feb. 15, 2024 - The Elmhurst Independent

The Elmhurst Independent

Viewpoint

Feb. 15, 2024 • 8

Expanding the Child Tax Credit

By U.S. Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi No child should live in poverty, and that is why I was proud to join a majority of my colleagues from both parties on Wednesday in voting to pass the bipartisan Tax Relief for American Families and Workers Act to expand the Child Tax Credit.

This legislation will significantly reduce child poverty in America by lifting more than half a million children above the poverty line, helping 16 million more, and expanding the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit to put a roof over the heads of 200,000 American families.

In addition, the legislation will eliminate red tape for small businesses and encourage domestic research investment, all without adding a nickel to the deficit.

Despite the partisan theatrics that dominate too much of the news out of Washington, the American people sent my colleagues and I to Congress to make their lives better, and that is exactly what the bipartisan Tax Relief for American Families and Workers Act does.

million packages every single day for millions of Americans no matter their ZIP code.

Countering the threats posed by the Chinese Communist Party As Ranking Member of the Select Committee on the Strategic Competition Between the United States and the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) I recently led two separate bipartisan hearings on threats posed to America by the CCP. In the first hearing, we heard from former President Barack Obama’s Secretary of Defense and CIA Director, Leon Panetta, and former President Donald Trump’s Secretary of State and CIA Director, Mike Pompeo, on the CCP’s continued support for America’s adversaries, including Russian President Vladimir Putin.

I questioned the two former secretaries on how the CCP’s backing for President Putin during its ongoing invasion and war in Ukraine not only strengthens Putin’s authoritarian grip on Russia, but how it threatens future peace in Europe and in Taiwan.

Former Secretary Pompeo told our committee during my questioning that ending support for Ukraine’s efforts to drive out Protecting and strengthening Putin’s forces embolden the CCP’s the U.S. Postal Service prospects of staging a similar Recently, I joined with invasion of the island of Taiwan and Congressman Jamie Raskin, other democracies in the region.

Ranking Member of the Committee We then held a second hearing on on Oversight and Accountability, the threats posed by the CCP’s cyber and 80 of my colleagues in urging program to America’s infrastructure President Joe Biden to swiftly fill and national security. The hearing the two open vacancies on the featured a number of experts and United States Postal Service’s stakeholders, including FBI Director (USPS) Board of Governors with Christopher Wray, U.S. Cyber members who are committed to Command General Paul Nakasone, lowering costs for consumers and Cybersecurity and Infrastructure businesses and maintaining the Agency Director Jen Easterly, and USPS’s high service standards.

National Cyber Director Harry In the four years under current Coker, Jr. Postmaster General Louis DeJoy, the During my questioning, Director USPS has seen five separate price Wray told our committee the hikes, including one that took effect CCP’s hackers are standing by just days ago. and awaiting orders to “wreak President Biden has a unique havoc” and attack critical civilian opportunity to positively shape the infrastructure, including electric future of the USPS for generations grids, transportation systems, and to come by quickly nominating water treatment facilities. As I said two members who will prioritize during the hearing, strengthening public service and the longevity of our cyber security and capacity this critical American institution. In to deter CCP aggression through Congress, I will continue my work offensive cyber operations is critical to hold Postmaster General DeJoy to our national security. accountable and advocate for the Raja Krishnamoorthi represents protection and security of the USPS, the 8th Congressional District of Illinois, which includes part of which oversees the processing of Addison, Wood Dale and Bensenville.

421 million pieces of mail and 23

Slices of life

Never have I ever

I started this column thinking I might write about some of the things I’ve never yet done, like take an Alaskan cruise, drink ouzo in Greece, taste French bread in France or parent a dachshund.

But I missed out on the most important never ever of all: Never, have I ever … played pickleball.

There it is. I said it out loud.

Please don’t unfriend me on Facebook. I’m truly still cool. Or I’m trying to be, despite the vast pickleball oversight.

I’ve made pickles - from scratch.

I’ve played ball—as in tennis, croquet, ping pong—and even, most lately, wallyball.

But combining pickles and balls?

Never have I ever.

Turns out I’m in the minority.

Everyone is playing pickleball.

Some reports report it as the fastest growing sport in the nation.

And not just among those as wrinkled as pickles.

You might be surprised to learn that the start of pickleball had nothing to do with gardening, cucumbers or vinegar. The game’s humble beginnings began in someone’s backyard and was soon picked up by seniors as a way to play tennis without running or jumping or having to move around too much.

It was ingenious.

So much so that it caught on with younger demographics who likely thought it wasn’t fair for all the baby boomers to monopolize the pickle action.

But what is this entity entitled

Suffice to say, the Woodstock generation has matured since their experimental days. They’ve since By graduated to pickleball and they JILL are bringing us all along for the PERTLER Slices of Life ride.

They want us all to serve and volley—but most of all to stay out of the kitchen. In pickleball, the pickleball? Does it involve eating kitchen is off limits, which might pickles? Swatting them with a paddle? Using them as a paddle? Is explain why no teen-age boys are drawn to the sport. an extra large pickle carved into a I’d like to try it. I think I possess ball formation? How does a pickle the eye-hand coordination to hit become a ball? the ball and the stamina to make it The simple answer: it doesn’t. through an extra-long volley, but Pickleball actually has nothing from what I understand the hardest whatever to do with pickles. But thing about pickleball is scoring.

I’m no expert. I’ve yet to play When you play doubles, each even one game or match or set or point is called out in three numwhatever the pickleball lingo rebers. I don’t know about you but quires.

Although I’ve been invited—of- this sounds like a game created by an accountant. Numbers have nevten. er been my forte.

People who play pickleball I’m all for exercise and recre(known by the in-crowd as “pickation, but the thinking part has me leballers”) are so overjoyed and stymied, which just may be the enamored with the sport they reason why I haven’t tried to pickcan’t wait to share it with others le with balls just yet. and get them hooked as well. It’s I’ve been invited by well-meanalmost like a new experimental ing friends many times, but I’ve drug, which would explain why the baby boomers, formally known yet to make it into the court, much less the kitchen. I did purchase as hippies, like it so much. (Just a set of paddles awhile back, in kidding, boomers! Learn to take a anticipation, but don’t tell my joke already!)

Never mind about that; I wasn’t friends. I’m not sure I’m ready for the fierce competition. insinuating anything about the Not to mention the rigors of Woodstock era and experimental drugs. Just a friendly nod to adren- scoring. aline and the feel-good feelings Jill Pertler is an award-winning sports-like activities released into syndicated columnist, published the system. playwright and author. Don’t miss Let’s say definitively that drugs have no part in pickleball—unless a slice; follow the Slices of Life they are of the prescription variety. page on Facebook.

The Elmhurst Independent - Thursday, Feb. 15, 2024 • 9

Last time at the book fair

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These Immaculate Conception Grade School 8th graders enjoy their final visit to the Scholastic Book Fair, as they will be graduating in May.

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10 • Thursday, Feb. 15, 2024 - The Elmhurst Independent

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The Elmhurst University Music Department is pleased to host pianist Brian Woods for a solo performance recital on Sunday, Feb. 18, at 3 p.m. The concert will take place in Buik Recital Hall in Irion Hall on the Elmhurst University campus. The concert is free and open to the public.

Celebrated for his stunning musicianship and dazzling stage presence, American pianist Brian Woods has emerged as an exciting performer of international acclaim. A native of St. Louis, Woods has enjoyed success in numerous distinguished competitions, including the Verona International Piano Competition, The American Prize, the Beverly Hills National Auditions, and the Artist Presentation Society Auditions. The program will include Frédéric Chopin’s Ballades No. 1, 2, 3 and 4 and Sergei Rachmaninoff’s Sonata No. 2 in

B-flat Minor, Op. 36.

Hailed as “representing the next generation of professional touring artists” (Robert Hart Baker), Woods’ performances continue to receive high acclaim, with audiences and critics alike praising his playing as “astonishing” (KDHX St. Louis), “inspiring” (Encinitas, Calif.), and “taking the audience on a journey” (Watertown, N.Y.).

Woods holds degrees from Vanderbilt University, University of Missouri - Kansas City, Shenandoah University, and the Royal Conservatory’s Glenn Gould School, where he completed the Artist Diploma Program on full scholarship with famed Irish pianist and Beethoven interpreter John O’Conor. For more information visit www.brianwoodspianist.com.

For more information, please visit elmhurst.edu/music.

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The Elmhurst Independent - Thursday, Feb. 15, 2024 • 11

WATCH ALL GAMES HERE! BAR HOURS Monday Closed Tues-Thurs 12PM-11PM; Fri 12PM-12AM Sat 11AM-12AM; Sun 11AM-10PM

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12 • Thursday, Feb. 15, 2024 - The Elmhurst Independent

The Elmhurst Independent

Real Estate/Business

Feb. 15, 2024 •12

DCTP releases grant guidelines More than $6.2 million has been awarded to date

The DuPage Community Transformation Partnership (DCTP) released guidelines for its Immediate Intervention and Transformational grant opportunities.

The DCTP’s goal is to support not-for-profit programs focused on eliminating food insecurity, promoting housing stability, and providing effective mental health and substance use disorder prevention

or treatment programs for DuPage County residents. Guidelines are available at dupagefoundation.org/ DCTP. Immediate Intervention grants are intended to provide financial resources that enable organizations to respond to the immediate needs of their clients and/or to quickly increase capacity of the organization to deliver efficient services.

Transformational grants are twoyear grants intended to support evidence-based programs that focus on long-term solutions to build capacity, improve efficiency, and ensure efficacy of programs that support DuPage County residents.

To be eligible to apply for a grant through the DCTP, an organization must be a 501(c)(3) social service not-for-profit providing assistance

in the areas of food insecurity, housing instability, mental health, or substance use disorder that meets at least one of the following criteria: • Must have more than 50 percent of its total clients be DuPage County residents; or • Must provide services in facilities physically located in DuPage County; or • Must have a DuPage County ad-

visory board.

The DuPage Community Transformation Partnership (DCTP) – a $10 million grant program between DuPage County and DuPage Foundation – supports social service not-for-profit organizations helping DuPage County residents in the areas of food insecurity, housing instability, mental health, and substance use disorder.

Copays take effect for immigrant health programs as cost estimates continue to decline Expected program expenditures have declined by $60 million since August

By Jerry Nowicki CAPITOL NEWS ILLINOIS

Cost estimates for a pair of state-funded health care programs serving certain low-income noncitizens have declined by tens of millions of dollars in recent months as the state rolled out new copay and co-insurance requirements earlier this month.

The Health Benefits for Immigrant Adults and Health Benefits for Immigrant Seniors programs provide state-funded Medicaid-like benefits to individuals aged 42 and over who would otherwise be eligible for the federal low-income health care program if not for their immigration status.

That includes those in the U.S. without legal permission and those who have obtained a green card but not yet completed a five-year waiting period to earn federal benefits. Individuals who have applied for asylum or sanctuary in the U.S.—which includes many of the more than 34,000 migrants bused to Illinois from Texas in the last year-and-a-half—more likely qualify for other preexisting state or federal benefits.

Advocates for the programs contend they are not only lifesaving but also cost-saving in the long-run as they give individuals access to preventative care rather than making them reliant upon expensive emergency room visits to treat conditions that worsen due to lack of care.

Opponents of the programs, namely Republican lawmakers, have criticized them as an expensive enticement for people illegally residing in the U.S. to relocate to Illinois.

The programs, originally launched

for those aged 65 and older in 2020 then expanded in waves, became a sticking point in state budget negotiations last year when Gov. JB Pritzker’s administration projected their single-year costs to exceed $1 billion.

But current estimates now project the programs will cost $773 million in the current fiscal year. Those estimates, however, have declined by $60 million since August, the month following the Pritzker administration’s initial announcement of certain cost-saving measures.

Cost-saving measures Ultimately, the contentious budget negotiations ended last year with lawmakers allocating $500 million in funding to the program from the state’s General Revenue Fund and giving the Pritzker administration authority to limit program enrollment and costs.

The administration in turn paused enrollment in HBIA as of July 1 and in HBIS as of Nov. 6. The two programs now collectively serve about 69,000 people aged 42 and older, and enrollment remains paused.

In January, the administration also began moving enrollees to the state’s Medicaid managed care program, which connects individuals with private insurers who contract with the state to oversee routine and follow-up health care.

The Department of Healthcare and Family Services, which administers the programs, expects the managed care transition to be complete in April.

After months of delays, the department announced that copays

and co-insurance for certain services went live Feb. 1.

“Most services covered by the HBIA and HBIS programs … will continue to be free for customers, including primary care visits, prescription medications and vaccinations at a pharmacy or doctor’s office,” the department said in a news release.

“The new copays and co-insurance will apply to the use of non-emergency hospital or surgical center services, like nonemergent elective surgeries, physical therapy and lab work.”

Enrollees may see a $250 copay per nonemergency inpatient hospitalization and a 10 percent charge for nonemergency outpatient services or care received from ambulatory surgical treatment centers. It’s a major difference from the federally funded Medicaid program, which does not require copays.

Whether individuals are subject to those copays and co-insurance requirements will depend on if they have already been enrolled in managed care and which managed care organization is serving them, according to the department. The state reimburses managed care organizations at a specified rate, giving the MCOs authority to charge copays or co-insurance without requiring them to do so.

CountyCare in Cook County, where most program enrollees are located, is waiving all copays and coinsurance requirements, per the department.

The department announced it no longer plans to issue a copay for emergency room visits.

The Healthy Illinois Campaign, a statewide coalition of immigrant and

health care advocates, has pushed for an expansion of the program and fought any efforts to limit it or install cost-sharing.

The group’s director, Tovia Siegel, praised the administration’s decision not to charge a copay for emergency room care but said the other copays “place a significant burden on both providers and patients, limiting access to healthcare for Illinois’ immigrant community.”

The copays, advocates noted, are charged to medical providers

by MCOs, but the providers are required to collect them from patients, creating an administrative burden.

As well, they warned that individuals may choose to defer certain “elective” procedures, such as a colonoscopy, due to the copay requirement, potentially undermining the program’s preventative care goals.

“We urge the Department of Healthcare and Family Services and Managed Care Organizations to reconsider implementing these charges, which will generate a relatively small amount of money but can be the difference between life and death for low-income Illinoisans,” Siegel said in a statement.

Costs declining The programs’ cost estimates, meanwhile, have been on the decline amid the administration’s savings measures. In September, an HFS analysis estimated the programs’ 12-month cost to be $832 million for the fiscal year that ends June 30.

But the department’s latest estimate, published Jan. 9, now projects the programs will cost $773 million.

In total, the state has spent nearly

$330 million collectively on the programs in the first six months of the fiscal year, per the January estimate.

The department’s data shows average monthly costs for the programs decreased steadily between August and December, from $72.7 million to $45.3 million.

When the state announced its enrollment caps, it noted per-enrollee costs were higher among the HBIA and HBIS populations “due to more prevalent, untreated chronic conditions and higher hospital costs.” With the caps in place, the program is now populated with individuals who’ve been receiving routine care, rather than a steady stream of new enrollees who are more expensive to insure.

Thus, the per-patient monthly costs have also declined. In August, per-patient costs reached $1,232 for enrolled individuals aged 65 and older, $1,295 for those aged 55-64, and $844 for those aged 42-54. In December, those numbers declined to $778, $805 and $541, respectively.

Advocates pointed to those declines as evidence that the programs are accomplishing their intended goal of replacing costly emergency care with more cost-efficient preventative services.

“While there are several potential explanations, cost decreases in the HBIA and HBIS programs can be an indication that enrollees are receiving more preventative care and therefore needing less intensive, expensive care,” Siegel said. “However, the implementation of copays could threaten these gains as enrollees are dissuaded from receiving this cost-saving preventative care.”

The Elmhurst Independent - Thursday, Feb. 15, 2024 • 13

Obituaries ing him “You’re gonna bankrupt your mama’s company and wind up just like your daddy, a drunk and a bum.”

A special thank you to the doctors, nurses and staff at Sherman Hospital in Elgin for their exceptional care and compassion during Barbara’s extended residency there, particularly those staff members on the hospital’s fifth floor.

Barbara was laid to rest at Crystal Lake Memorial Park cemetery. A celebration of Barbara’s life will be held this spring.

Please consider a donation in Barbara’s honor to the COPD Foundation (www.copdfoundation. org).

Bruce Evan Blair, 87 Bruce Evan Blair, 87, of Elmhurst, Illinois, passed away on Jan. 30, 2024 after a brief illness and hospitalization.

Bruce was the beloved husband of Ruth and the cherished father of Laura (Dan) McKnight of Wauconda (recently of Shawnee, KS), Barbara (David) Mevis of Naperville, and Carolyn (Ted) Novy of Chicago. He was also the proud and adored grandpa/ papa of Jeremy and Eli McKnight, Molly, Shannon, and Evan Mevis, and Thomas, Tess, Leo, Mary Frances, Sally, and Gus Novy.

He kept in close touch with his brothers, with his niece and neph-

ews and their families, as well as with Ruth’s only sister Dorothy.

Bruce was born on June 23, 1936 in Melrose Park, Illinois to the late Buell and Kathryn Blair.

He was the middle sibling to his older brother, the late Bob, and his younger brother Dan. He lived most of his life in Elmhurst, but he loved Maine where he spent some of his childhood. He attended Iowa State University and made his living as a chemical and materials engineer.

He was a longtime employee of Automatic Electric (a division of GTE) and later of Philips Advance Transformer.

Bruce married Ruth Ehrich in 1963. They raised their three daughters in Elmhurst and spent all sixty years of their marriage there. Bruce loved his family above all and enjoyed attending sporting events and holiday gatherings with his many grandchildren. He believed strongly in the value of education and helped all of his grandchildren with college funding.

Bruce was a tree hugger before it was popular and nurtured a deep, lifelong love of trees and nature.

He spent a good deal of his retirement time volunteering at the Morton Arboretum, particularly in the Children’s Garden. He was generous, contributing to a wide variety of charitable organizations including Smile Train, the Epilepsy Foundation, the International Foundation for CDKL5 Research, and several progressive causes. He had a heart for those in need, often offering assistance to extend-

ed family, acquaintances, or even strangers needing a helping hand.

Bruce did not like being the center of attention, and we are respecting his desire not to have any formal service or celebration of life. Our family will celebrate and remember him during every visit to the arboretum and every family gathering in the years ahead. We welcome donations in his memory to the Morton Arboretum (mortonarb.org) or to the International Foundation for CDKL5 Research (cdkl5.com), which works to treat and cure the genetic condition that affects his grandson and namesake Evan.

Bruce would also be delighted if you planted a tree in his honor-preferably something native to your area. He was especially partial to ginkgoes, bald cypresses and crooked pines with interesting branch structures. We are grateful to have had him in our lives all these years and we will miss him every day.

Bruce Leon Josephs On Feb. 2, 2024, the community lost Bruce Leon Josephs. Bruce passed in Naples, FL surrounded by his family and friends. His passing concluded a 6 year battle with cancer, having beaten it once during that time.

He is survived by his wife of 40 years, Melinda Kay Josephs, his three children: Brian (sp. Kristen), Matthew (sp. Jacqueline) and Jennifer (fiance Thomas Wraith), and four grandchildren: Brady (5),

Rosemary (3), Annie (11 mo) and John (3 mo).

He was an exceptional man, living his values by putting his family and friends first. He was deeply committed to those important to him, traveling all over the country to visit his children, grandchildren, siblings, cousins, nieces, nephews and friends. When he wasn’t traveling, he welcomed all into his home for holidays, birthdays and any other reason to get together and share a laugh. A testament to his kindness, humor, and character, he kept many lifelong friends, be it from York High School, University of Illinois, Phi Kappa Tau Fraternity or work at United Airlines. Now his spirit joins his parents, Mitchel and Sylvia, and brothers, Mitch and Greg. His memory lives on in our hearts and the many stories we will share for years to come.

Visitation was Friday, February 9. Funeral service was held at Gibbons Funeral Home, 134 South York Road, (½ mile North of Saint Charles Road), Elmhurst. Interment Private.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society, P.O. Box 6704, Hagerstown, MD 21741.

Live stream of funeral service available through funeral home website. For funeral information, please call 630-832-0018 or www. gibbonsfuneralhome.com.

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Barbara Ellen Miazga, 81 Barbara Ellen Miazga, 81 was born Sept. 7, 1942 in Woodstock, Illinois.

She died Feb. 1, 2024 at Sherman Hospital, Elgin, Illinois.

Barbara Miazga was a loving, family woman who made a significant impact on the lives of many with her calming/steadying influence, go-go-go nonstop motor, and extremely sharp wit.

Barbara grew up on the family farm in Crystal Lake, Illinois, and was a graduate of Crystal Lake Community High School. She also attended Western Illinois University in Macomb where she studied education, following in the footsteps of her mother.

During a colorful professional career, Barbara worked at United Airlines, for Community Unit School District 300, Follett, Qualex and Eastman Kodak Co. As an educator in District 300’s, at-thetime, rough-and-tumble behavioral disorder program, Barbara logged stints at the now defunct Spain Center (old Dundee High School), Kings Road Elementary School and Dundee-Crown High School in Carpentersville.

It was at United Airlines where Barbara met her future husband, Dennis. The inseparable couple was married for 56 years, celebrating that recent year-56 milestone in January.

Barbara was preceded in death by her parents, the highly notable Crystal Lake power couple Lester and Ida Ebel, sister, Ruth Ann (Rhody) Kramer, brother-in-law, Frank Kramer, in-laws, Joseph and Jean Miazga, of Island Lake, cats, Oscar, Betty, Willie and Wally, as well as longtime Elmhurst canine confidant Fenway the Beagle, who expired in January at the rare dog age of 18.

In addition to husband, Dennis, Barbara is survived by sons, Mike Miazga (daughter-in-law, Kristin Herigodt-Miazga; granddaughter, Kyleigh Miazga) and Grant Miazga (grandson, Danny Miazga); sister, Kathy Wiltberger; brother-in-law, Robert Wiltberger; nieces, Amy Kramer, Allison Kramer and Christine (nee Wiltberger) Brown (husband Peter Brown; children, Emmett and Ida Rose); and nephews, Andy Wiltberger (wife Tracy; twin children, Ashley and Nathan) and Jeff Wiltberger (wife Erica; children, Andrew Joseph and Alexander), as well as cats, Murphy (46 pounds) and Wrigley, and Elmhurst-based grand beagles Beckett and Shiloh.

In addition to being a champion of fashion and hair/skin care, Barbara also was a connoisseur of early 80s prime time soap operas “Dallas,” “Falcon Crest,” “Dynasty” and “Knots Landing” and “Quincy,” among others. Over the years, Barbara loved reciting a scene from “Dallas” where main character J.R. Ewing (played by Larry Hagman) put down adversary Cliff Barnes (played by Ken Kercheval) by tell-

14 • Thursday, Feb. 15, 2024 - The Elmhurst Independent 450932

Worship Services Directory

SUBMITTED PHOTOS Elmhurst Independent

Pictured is the Legendary Count Basie Orchestra (above) along with Maria Schneider (below), who will be among the performers at this year’s 57th annual Elmhurst University Jazz Festival.

Jazz Festival welcomes orchestras of Count Basie, Maria Schneider Elmhurst University’s 57th annual event coming Feb. 22-25

Gather with us for weekend worship!

Saturdays 5:00 p.m.

Sundays 8:30 a.m. and 11:00 a.m.

Education Hour between services at 9:45 a.m.

Mid-week Worship during Lent

142 E. Third St. Elmhurst, IL

ImmanuelElmhurst.org 630-832-1649

Handicapped accessible and hearing loop enabled

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Wednesdays at 12:00 p.m. and 6:30 p.m.

St. Timothy Evangelical Lutheran Church 547 N. Main St., Lombard, IL 60148

630-627-2435

FAITH CHURCH OF ELMHURST

LentEaster Services Lent and Services at 7 p.m. at 7pm

LAUNCHING A NEW GLOBAL METHODIST CHURCH

“TheCrucial Passion of Jesus “The Hours”

the Gospel of John” Second LenteninService March 9, 2022 Rev. David Ernest “Satan Has Asked to Sift All of You” Second Lenten Service February 21, 2024 Jerusalem Lutheran, Morton Grove Matthew 27:15-26 Third Lenten Service

Third Lenten Service Rev. Paul Spaude

St. Matthews, Niles

Fourth Lenten Service

THE TWO INTERROGATIONS John 18:12-27

March 16, 2022 February “What to Remember When 28, Your2024 are WHAT KIND OF KING JESUS? Seized with IS Remorse” John 18:28-40 Matthew 27:3-4

Fourth Lenten Service Rev. Jonathan Bergemann Good Shepherd, Downers Grove

Fifth Lenten Service

Fifth Lenten Service Rev. Tom Nicholson Sixth Lenten Service Resurrection, Aurora

MAKING DISCIPLES OF JESUS CHRIST WHO WORSHIP PASSIONATELY, LOVE EXTRAVAGANTLY, AND WITNESS BOLDLY

Worship: 10 a.m. Sundays 111 W North Avenue Elmhurst, IL 60126 630-941-0212

www.faithchurchelmhurst.org faithelm@gmail.com

March 6, 2024 2022 WHOMMarch DO WE23, FOLLOW? John 19:1-16a “I Will Keep the Passover”

Matthew 26:18

449337

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March 13, 2024 THREE SCENES ON THE CROSS March 2022 John30, 19:16b-27

“They Bound Him” March 20,18:12 2024 John

THE CONQUEROR WINS THE VICTORY

John 19:28-42 Sixth Lenten Service April 6, 2022 Rev. Phil Schupmann “The Semblance of Legality” ✝✝✝✝✝✝✝✝✝✝ Resurrection, Aurora Luke 22:66

Sunday Worship at 10:15 am Sunday School & Bible Study 9am April 14 Maundy Thursday Communion 7 p.m., Wednesday Service at 7pm Good Friday Tenebrae 7 p.m., April 15 Ladies Bible Fellowship Mondays at 6:30pm Easter Sunrise 6:30 a.m., Saturday, Feb. 24 Game Night at 4pmApril 17 Easter Breakfast

8 a.m., April 17

Everyone is Welcome!

All services are live streamed.

SaintTimothy.org Easter Festival 10:15 a.m., April 17 450860

for as low as $20 per week

Call Brenda at 630-834-4450 or Betty at 630-627-7010

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Be a part of the Worship Services Directory

Two internationally renowned jazz ensembles, the Legendary Count Basie Orchestra and the Maria Schneider Orchestra, will head to campus soon to perform at the Elmhurst University Jazz Festival, one of the oldest and best-known collegiate festivals in the country.

The lineup of acclaimed guest artists also includes trumpet player Orbert Davis, trombonist Marshall Gilkes, baritone sax player Gary Smulyan and guitarist Anthony Wilson. They all will also serve as adjudicators at the Festival, which takes place from Feb. 22–25.

Now in its 57th year, the Elmhurst University Jazz Festival welcomes top college and university jazz bands from across the country to take part in four days of performances and education. The bands take turns performing for some of the greatest names in professional jazz today, who offer critiques and honors, and then give a performance of their own.

The Festival schedule is: • The Jazz Festival kicks off on Thursday, Feb. 22, with the High School Invitational, made possible with the generous support of the Sylvia and William W. Gretsch Memorial Foundation.

• College and university band performances begin on Friday, Feb. 23. That evening’s feature performance will be given by The Legendary Count Basie Orchestra, directed by Scotty Barnhart with guest vocalist Carmen Bradford. Fresh off a 2024 Grammy win for Best Large Jazz Ensemble, for Basie Swings the Blues, the Count Basie Orchestra has continued to thrive even 40 years after the passing of its iconic founder. The orchestra has won more than 18 Grammy Awards and performed sold-out shows at every major jazz festival and concert hall in the world.

• On Saturday, Feb. 24, a clinic and master class with Maria Schneider begins another day of college performances, followed that evening with performances by the Elmhurst University Jazz Band and the Maria Schneider Orchestra. Critics have described Schneider’s music as “evocative, majestic, magical, heart-stoppingly gorgeous, imaginative, revelatory, riveting, daring, and beyond categorization.”

She is among the few to have received Grammy awards in multiple genres, including jazz and classical, and for her work with rock legend David Bowie.

• On the final day of the Festival, the program features more college and university performances and concludes with a performance by Davis, Gilkes, Smulyan and Wilson with the Elmhurst University Jazz Band.

This year’s sessions and featured performances will take place in person, in Hammerschmidt Memorial Chapel; and via livestream. For tickets and information, visit elmhurst.edu/jazzfestival.

The Elmhurst Independent - Thursday, Feb. 15, 2024 • 15

Pick of the Week GMTT presents Murder Mystery dinner theatre Friday, Feb. 23 Saturday Feb. 24 At 7 p.m., Greenman Theatre presents is murder mystery dinner, “Murder on the DeLorean Express,” at Angelo’s Ristorante at 247 N. York Rd. Tickets are $57 and include the show and an Italian dinner.

Cash bar, chance to mingle with the actors one hour before curtain.

The play will also be performed March 1, 2, and 3. Tickets and info: 630-464-2646 or greenmantheatre.org.

(Performances will also be held on March 1, 2 and 3.)

Sunday, Feb. 18 Beginning at 12:15 p.m., SHE Single Mothers Support Group monthly luncheon will be held at Elmhurst Christian Reformed Church, 149 W. Brush Hill Rd. Complimentary lunch for all who attend, free child care (ages infants -12 years) during the program. This month’s topic will be “Mending Our Hearts” by Pastor Jeff Klein. Come enjoy friendship and support from other single mothers.

RSVP to elmhurstcrc.org/she

57th annual Jazz Fest at Hammerschmidt Chapel on the university campus as well as via livestream. For tickets and info, visit elmhurst.edu/ jazzfestival.

Saturday, Feb. 24 From 5-7 p.m., the Elmhurst Lions Club will hold its annual All-U-CanEat Pizza Party at Sandburg Middle School, 345 E. St. Charles Rd. Children and adult raffle prizes, 50/50 raffle.

Tickets are $10 each or $40 for a Feb. 22-25 family of 5 or more. Info: elmhurstElmhurst University presents its lions.org.

Wednesday, Feb. 28 This is the final day that First Congregational United Church of Christ, 235 S. Kenilworth, will accept preorders for certified organic vegetable, herb and annual flower seedlings. Seedlings can be ordered at the church website elmhurstucc.org/ store. Seedlings will be available for pick up at the church’s Green Garden Fair on Saturday, May 11. It’s never too early to start thinking about your spring garden!

Friday, March 1 Saturday, March 2 Sunday, March 3 Greenman Theatre presents is murder mystery dinner, “Murder on the DeLorean Express,” at Angelo’s Ristorante at 247 N. York Rd. The show begins at 7 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, and at 6 p.m. on Sunday. Tickets are $57 and include the show and an Italian dinner. Cash bar, chance to mingle with the actors one hour before curtain. Tickets and info: 630464-2646 or greenmantheatre.org.

Saturday, March 2 • Beginning at 6:30 p.m., the Elmhurst Children’s Assistance Foundation (ECAF) will celebrate its 30th anniversary with a fundraiser at

ESO, Chicago’s Apollo Chorus to celebrate Bruckner Two performances scheduled in early March The Elmhurst Symphony Association (ESA), in partnership with The Apollo Chorus of Chicago, announces the upcoming concert, ‘Majestic Bruckner, to be performed on Saturday, March 9 at 7 p.m. at Glenview Community Church in Glenview, and on Sunday, March 10 at 4 p.m. at Elmhurst Christian Reformed Church in Elmhurst. The concert features soloists Michelle Areyzaga, Tetyana Vakhnovska, Martin Luther Clark, and Bill McMurray.

Audiences are invited to attend a pre-concert lecture by assistant conductor Eli Chen, beginning at 2:45 p.m. on Sunday only.

The concert will include the following selections by Bruckner: Psalm 150, Motets (Saturday only) and Te Deum. On Sunday only, guests will also enjoy Symphony No. 36 (“Linz”) by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart.

Performers include: the Elmhurst Symphony Orchestra, led by music director and conductor Stephen Alltop; The Apollo Chorus of Chicago; and the following soloists: Michelle Areyzaga, soprano; Tetyana Vakhnovska, mezzo-soprano; Martin Luther Clark, tenor; and, Bill McMurray, bass-baritone.

What’s interesting about this concert This year of 2024 marks the 200th anniversary of the birth of Austrian composer Anton Bruckner. A remarkably humble composer (a leading music critic at the time called him “half genius, half simpleton”), he is best known for his symphonies and sacred music.

Bruckner’s music, however, is anything but humble. His works are often punctuated with expansive, or-

gan-like walls of sound. The scene from the movie “Back to the Future” when Marty McFly blasts himself backward through a wall comes to mind...

Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, also an Austrian composer, arrived in the city of Linz and found himself in something of a pickle: A local count, Count Thun, unexpectedly insisted the young composer give a concert while in town. Mozart, unprepared but unphased, composed a brandnew symphony (nicknamed “Linz”) in just four days for the occasion.

Tickets may be ordered online, by phone, or at the box office the day of the event. Senior and student ticket prices are available.

To purchase tickets for Saturday, visit ApolloChorus.org.

To purchase tickets for Sunday, visit elmhurstsymphony.org or call 630-941-0202 Monday-Friday from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Glenview Community Church is located at 1000 Elm St. in Glenview.

Elmhurst Christian Reformed Church is located at 149 W Brush Hill Road in Elmhurst.

LEGAL NOTICES NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING ZONING AND PLANNING COMMISSION/ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS CASE NUMBER 24 P 03 Request for Amended Conditional Use Permit for Planned Unit Development with Site Development Allowances Notice is hereby given that the Elmhurst Zoning and Planning Commission/Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing on Tuesday, March 5, 2024 at 7:00 p.m., in the Elmhurst City Hall, 209 N. York Street, Elmhurst, Illinois. The purpose of this hearing is to consider a request for an amended Conditional Use Permit for a Planned Unit Development with Site Development Allowances pursuant to Sections 22.26 and 22.31 of the Elmhurst Zoning Ordinance at the property commonly known as 188 W. Butterfield, Elmhurst, Illinois for the purpose of constructing a parking lot with area for a firepit.

Following is a legal description of the subject property: LOT 1 IN THE FINAL PLAT OF SUBDIVISION OF TIMOTHY CHRISTIAN SCHOOL RESUBDIVISION ELMHURST ILLINOIS, BEING PART OF THE SOUTHEAST QUARTER OF SECTION

14, TOWNSHIP 39 NORTH, RANGE 11 EAST, OF THE THIRD PRINCIPAL MERIDIAN ACCORDING TO THE PLAT THEREOF RECORDED SEPTEMBER 12, 2022 AS DOCUMENT NUMBER R2022084338 PIN: 06-14-412-058 & 06-14-412-059 The common street addresses are 188 W. Butterfield Road, Elmhurst, IL. The subject properties are located within the R1 Single Family Residence District and R4 Limited General Residence District.

If you have any questions regarding this case, please contact the Community Development Department at 630-530-3121.

Any person who has a disability requiring a reasonable accommodation to participate in this meeting, should contact Emily Palm, ADA Compliance Officer, Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., City of Elmhurst, 209 N. York Street, Elmhurst, IL 60126, call 630-530-3770 or email HR@elmhurst.org within a reasonable time before the meeting. Please provide as much notice as possible for sign language interpreting requests.

Eileen Franz, City Planner (Published in The Elmhurst Independent Feb. 15, 2024) 451061

River Forest Country Club. For tickets and information, visit ecaf4kids. org/2023-fundraiser.

• At 7 p.m., Music@Bethel presents the Edgewater Ensemble Woodwind Quintet. Wine reception to follow. Tickets are $25 available on Eventbrite or at the door. Students are free. The church is accessible and parking is free. Info: 630-279-4040.

Saturday, March 9 • It’s time for the wearin’ o’ the green – The Elmhurst St. Patrick’s Day Parade will step off at 12 noon on Spring Road. Come out for one of the community’s greatest events. Watch for the Elmhurst Armpit Orchestra with its big bass drum Mary and a brand-new Parade Queen.

• At 7 p.m., the Elmhurst Symphony Association in partnership with The Apollo Chorus of Chicago presents Majestic Bruckner at Glenview Community Church, located at 1000 Elm St., Glenview. For tickets, visit ApolloChorus.org.

Association in partnership with The Apollo Chorus of Chicago presents Majestic Bruckner at Elmhurst Christian Reformed Church is located at 149 W Brush Hill Road. For tickets, visit elmhurstsymphony.org.

Audiences are invited to attend a pre-concert lecture by assistant conductor Eli Chen beginning at 2:45 p.m.

Elmhurst History Museum The museum’s latest exhibit is Lost Chicagoland Department Stores. Admission to the Museum is always free, although some events carry a fee.

Elmhurst Art Museum Now through Sunday, April 28, the Elmhurst Art Museum latest exhibition is A Love Supreme, part of Art Design Chicago, a citywide collaboration initiated by the Terra Foundation for American Art that highlights the city’s artistic heritage and creative communities.

In partnership with the Chipstone Foundation, guests can also view A Love Supreme: McCormick House Sunday, March 10 At 4 p.m., the Elmhurst Symphony Reimagined.

2024 Organic Seedlings Sale

2024 OrganicSeedlings Seedlings Sale 2024 Organic Sale Purchase certified organic vegetable & herb seedlings from First Congregational. Details at https://elmhurstucc.org/store/ Orders Due by February 28, 2024 Purchase certified organic vegetable & herb seedlings certified organic vegetable & herb 9from PickPurchase up Saturday, May 11 between AM First Congregational.

Details at https://elmhurstucc.org/store/ seedlings from First Congregational. Details at & Noon https://elmhurstucc.org/store/ Orders Due by February 28, 2024

at the Green Garden Fair

Pick upby Saturday, between Orders Due FebruaryMay 28,11 2024 First at Congregational UCCFair 9 AM & Noon the Green Garden

235 S. Kenilworth, Elmhurst Pick up Saturday, May 11 between 9 AM 235 S. Kenilworth, Elmhurst • 630-832-2580 630-832-2580 Noon All Proceeds & Benefit Church Ministries at the Green Garden Fair All Proceeds Benefit Church Ministries First Congregational UCC

450915

Community calendar

First Congregational UCC 235 S. Kenilworth, Elmhurst 630-832-2580

All Proceeds Benefit Church Ministries

Explore the benefits of bringing your faith to work Learn key principles of purpose, leadership, culture and priority This free coaching group begins Feb. 6 Join us from 6:45am-7:45am each Tuesday 500 S. Spring Road, Elmhurst 450690

16 • Thursday, Feb. 15, 2024 - The Elmhurst Independent

Serving Addison, Bensenville, Elmhurst, Lombard & Villa Park

Classifieds Elmhurst Office (630) 834-8244

In-Print and Onlne at www.TheIndependentNewspapers.com

Call Classifieds at

BUSINESS & SERVICE Building Repair/ Remodeling

Landscaping/ Lawn/Garden

GREG STEBEN CARPENTRY

LAWN & SNOW MANAGEMENT

Small Home Repairs and Remodeling General Carpentry 30 Years Experience “Specializing in Quality Workmanship and Attention to Detail”

630-495-8077

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Concrete

T & M TREE SERVICE • Tree Removal • Tree Trimming • Bush Removal • Stump Grinding • Free wood chips • Free Estimates • Insured Call Todd

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Available Services • Commercial & Residential Affordable Weekly Mowing • Aeration Spring & Fall clean up • Power Raking Fertilizing and/or Seeding • Sidewalk edging Black dirt/Mulch/Stone • Driveway Bush trimming sealcoating Call for Free Estimate • Villa Park

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PUBLISHER’S NOTICE All real estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Fair Housing Act which makes it illegal to advertise any preference, limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, disability, familiar/ status or national origin, or an intention to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination. Familial status includes children under the age of 18 living with parents or legal custodians, pregnant women and people securing custody of children under 18. This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. To complain of discrimination call HUD toll-free at 1-900-669-9777. The toll-free tele phone number for the hearing impaired is 1-800-927-9275. EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY

For details on placing an ad in our

Classified Section Call 630-834-8244 or 630-627-7010

The Elmhurst Independent The Addison Independent • The Bensenville Independent Villa Park Review • Lombardian

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AL’S PAINTING SERVICE

Stoop - Steps - Drives Garage Floors & More! * Licensed/Bonded/Insured *

• Interior & Exterior Painting • Power Washing Anything

Bobby 630.520.5812 Mynor 630.631.3073

CUSTOM CONCRETE

Call Greg 630-469-6898

FIND YOUR NEXT HOME IN THE CLASSIFIEDS!

FOR SALE 388922

Residential driveways, patios, walkways.

Stamped and colored concrete.

The Home Repair & Improvement Company No job is too small!

Free Estimates ~ Call 630-853-3059

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Electrical

CODE ELECTRIC • Troubleshooting • Upgrade Service • Car Chargers • Remodeling 630-834-2939/630-337-9963 (cell) Licensed - karl@codeelectric.net

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CLASSIFIED IN-COLUMN ADS cannot be credited or refunded after the ad has been placed.

Ads canceled before deadline will be removed from the paper as a service to our customers, but no credit or refund will be issued to your account.

7 CEMETERY PLOTS Willing to sell as a group or individually. Located at Roselawn Memory Gardens 3045 WI-67, Lake Geneva, WI 53147. This is a private sale.

Contact Randy, the seller at randy@slpublishers.com.

DISCLAIMER NOTICE This publication does not knowingly accept fraudulent or deceptive advertising. Readers are cautioned to thoroughly investigate all ads, especially those asking for money in advance.

Vans, Mini Vans FOR SALE: 2006 E250 FORD CARGO VAN, $3,000 or best offer and 2002 CHEVY ASTRO VAN, $4,000 or best offer. Call Al at 630-853-3059.

Handyman

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The Elmhurst Independent - Thursday, Feb. 15, 2024 • 17

The Elmhurst Independent

Sports Feb. 15, 2024 • 17

York boys basketball team defeats Willowbrook Dukes finish second in WSC Silver, earn No. 2 sectional seed

By Mike Miazga CORRESPONDENT

The York boys basketball piled up the good news on various fronts recently. First, the Dukes were 68-50 West Suburban Conference crossover winners against neighbor Willowbrook. AJ Levine led York with 21 points, while Ryan Waltz had 20 points and Brendan Molis finished with nine points.

Willowbrook started the game on an 11-1 run. “It was a crazy game,” York coach Mike Dunn said. “We were up 13 points and halftime and they cut that to three

points and then we went up 20 in the fourth quarter. We did what we do defensively and ran our stuff on offense. Willowbrook is a very capable team with talented kids.

We stayed with it and did what we needed to do. We hit shots.”

York then dropped a 44-38 WSC Silver Division game to defending conference champion Downers Grove North. Levine had 23 points, while Waltz added eight points for the Dukes. York trailed by 14 points at one juncture and cut it to three points. “Downers Grove North is really good,” Dunn said.

York’s Stangarone qualifies for state gymnastics in four events and all-around

Dukes take sixth at sectional, win first regional title since 2001

By Mike Miazga CORRESPONDENT

The banner season the York girls gymnastics team has enjoyed became even more impressive. York took sixth as a team at the Wheaton-Warrenville South sectional with a score of 137.175.

While the Dukes did not advance as a team to the state finals, senior standout Angela Stangarone certainly did, qualifying for state in all four events, plus the all-around competition.

Stangarone will compete at the state finals meet this weekend at Palatine High School. Stangarone qualified for the state meet on vault after taking fifth with a score of 9.425. She qualified on uneven parallel bars with a score of 9.375 (tied for second) and on balance beam with a 9.300 (fourth place). Stangarone was second on floor exercise, also earning a state berth with a score of 9.40.

Stangarone narrowly missed winning the sectional all-around title, finishing second at 37.50. Wheaton-Warrenville South’s Haylie Hinckley won the title with a score of 37.575.

According to the IHSA website, Stangarone had the third-highest all-around sectional score in the state, while her vault was the fourth highest. Stangarone’s bars score was the third highest, while her beam ranked fifth and floor ranked third.

York freshman Melania Veselovsky also qualified for state with an at-large berth in the all-around competition. She scored 35.600 at the sectional, earning the ninth of 12 at-large spots available.

Earlier, the Dukes won the Elk Grove regional championship with a score of 140.05, comfortably ahead of second-place DeKalb (135.55). Stangarone took second on vault with a 9.325, while Veselovsky was third at 9.225 and junior Hayley Schiltz was fifth at 8.55. Stangarone won the uneven parallel bars competition with a score of 9.40. Veselovsky was third at 8.60 and Schiltz was fourth at 8.55. Veselovsky won the balance beam at 9.225. Stangarone was second at 9.05, while Schiltz was third at 8.90 and junior Mia Carone was fifth at 8.325. Stangarone won the floor exercise regional title with a score of 9.45. Veselovksy was fourth at 8.60, while Schiltz was fifth at 8.475. Stangarone won the all-around regional title at 37.225. Veselovksy was third at 35.65 and Schiltz was fourth at 34.475.

York last won a girls gymnastics regional title in 2001, a 23-year gap.

“In the first half, we did not play great. When they are up 14 points, it’s like they are up 24 because of how good they are defensively.

Credit our kids for cutting the lead to three points and having opportunities to do that.”

The Downers North loss put York at 22-7 overall and 8-3 in WSC Silver play. York has secured second place in the conference behind North. The Dukes closed out the regular season earlier this week against Oak Park-River Forest.

“We were disappointed with the Downers game, but we now have

a great opportunity to hopefully make a run in the postseason,” Dunn said late last week. “It would also be nice to get that ninth conference win (against OPRF).”

York lost to Downers North twice (49-25 in first meeting and then 44-38 in second) and Lyons Township (57-49) once in conference. Downers North finished fourth in the state last year in Class 4A. In the additional good news department, the Dukes are the No. 2 seed in the upcoming Class 4A Addison Trail sectional. York heads

to the Class 4A St. Charles East regional to open play on Wednesday, Feb. 21 against either host St. Charles East (No. 13 seed) or Elk Grove (No. 18 seed). If York wins that game, a date with either No. 7 Glenbard West or No. 10 Bartlett awaits for the St. Charles East regional title on Friday, Feb. 23 at 7 p.m. Lake Park is the No. 1 Addison Trail sectional seed, while Batavia is the No. 3 seed and Glenbard North is the No. 4 seed. York lost by three points to Lake Park and holds a 15-point win over Glenbard North earlier this season.

Timothy Christian girls basketball team on four-game winning streak Trojans competing in continued Class 2A regional action this week

By Mike Miazga CORRESPONDENT

The Timothy Christian girls basketball team built some nice momentum heading into the latter part of the Class 2A Chicago Cristo Rey Jesuit regional this week. Timothy opened the Class 2A postseason by receiving a 2-0 forfeit win over Chicago Acero/Garcia. That win put Timothy Christian in the regional semifinals earlier this week against Chicago Acero/Soto. Timothy is the No. 5 seed, while Acero/ Soto is the No. 4 seed. If Timothy won that game, it will play for the regional title tonight at 7 p.m. at Cristo Rey Jesuit against either

No. 1 seed IC Catholic Prep or No. 7 seed Chicago Perspectives/IIT Math and Science.

Earlier, Timothy closed the regular season with three wins in a row.

Timothy downed Calumet Christian 43-27 after leading 21-11 at halftime. Elisabeth Van Den Berg, a freshman, led the Trojans with 14 points on 6-for-8 shooting. Sami Drye added six points. Drye hit two 3-pointers. Van Den Berg and Taylor Parker each had seven rebounds, while Parker had six steals and Drye had four steals.

In a 37-33 win over Chicago Hope Academy, Parker led the Trojans with 12 points. Van Den Berg

and Drye each had 10 points. Parker made four 3-pointers, while Drye hit 6 of 7 free-throw attempts. Van Den Berg had six rebounds, while Drye and freshman Mia Schilf each had five rebounds. Freshman Anneke Lemkuil had three assists, while Parker had five steals.

In a 45-31 win over Chicago Christian, Van Den Berg and Drye each had 13 points, while Schilf had six points. Drye hit three 3-pointers, while Van Den Berg shot 5-for-5 from the field and also had eight rebounds. Schilf had five steals, while Parker had four.

Van Den Berg finished with two blocked shots.

York girls bowling team takes sixth at sectional Lindsay Valdivia rolls 1,123 series

By Mike Miazga CORRESPONDENT

The York girls bowling team finished sixth at the recent Glenbard East sectional at Bowlero in Glendale Heights. The Dukes finished with a 5,198 pinfall for six games and missed qualifying for state by one spot. Chicago Resurrection snared the fifth and final team slot with a 5,227 score. York had no individual state qualifiers.

Sophomore Lindsay Valdivia led the way for York, rolling an 1,123 series with high games of 221, 202 and 193. The fifth and final individual state-qualifying mark for bowlers not on state-qualifying teams was 1,143.

Senior Isabella Bjerkan rolled a 1,097

series and high games of 204, 201 and 182. Julia Clink, a senior, rolled a 1,002 series with high games of 196, 181 and 168. Sophomore Cailyn Ziola rolled a 993 series with high games of 192, 186 and 178. Sophomore Ella Shea rolled a 983 series with high games of 199, 174 and 171.

Earlier, York finished third at the Hinsdale Central regional at Suburbanite Bowl in Westmont to earn a spot in the Glenbard East sectional.

The Dukes finished with a pinfall of 4,776 for six games. Willowbrook won the regional title at 4,992.

Shea finished fifth individually with a 1,077 series. Ziola was 12th at 978, while Valdivia was 17th at 953.

Clink was 24th at 879. Shea had high

games of 212, 209 and 204, finishing with an after-lunch 594 series. Ziola also had a strong second half, rolling a 528 series for her final three games.

She finished with high games of 192, 189 and 172. Valdivia had series of 462 and 491. She had a 205 fifth game and also rolled a 164. Clink gained 15 pins from her opening series to her final three games. She had high games of 156 and 151. Junior Ava Lewandowski rolled a 641 series for fourth games. She rolled a 195 in her first game (last game of the first half).

Bjerkan rolled the first two games and had a 137 opener.

Only one team in the field rolled a 900 or higher game. York broke 800 in its last four games.

18 • Thursday, Feb. 15, 2024 - The Elmhurst Independent The Elmhurst Independent - Thursday, July 16, 2020 • 19

Tax credits for children, manufacturers among new legislative proposals Illinois,” he told Capitol News IlliAfter failing to pass a child tax nois on Wednesday. credit last year, advocates returned In December, Gov. JB Pritzker to Springfield last week to propose urged a “careful” approach to next a scaled back version of the policy year’s budget after his budget office which they say would still reduce projected a $891 million deficit. child poverty and spur economic Omar Aquino, the chief Senate growth. sponsor of the proposal, said he The proposal, contained in House hopes the program, if passed, can Bill 4917 and Senate Bill 3329, be scaled up in the future. would create a $300 per-child reThe bills, which were introduced fundable tax credit for families Wednesday, await substantive comwho earn less than the state’s medi- mittee assignments, a necessary an income—about $75,000 per year step before they can be voted on by for couples and $50,000 for single the full legislature. parents.

The policy would cost the state Manufacturers’ agenda about $300 million, according to Tax credits were also included in Erion Malasi, Illinois policy direc- a wide-ranging legislative agenda tor for the Economic Security Proj- put forth by the Illinois Manufacect, an advocacy group backing the turers’ Association. proposal.

House Bill 4670 creates a pilot A January report from the Illinois program to allow manufacturers to Economic Policy Institute, a union- create onsite child care programs backed think tank, found that a and provide tax credits to those $300 tax credit would cost the state who do. about $471 million, although that “We know that the lack of availestimate doesn’t account for cost able child care is a hindrance to getreductions in other state programs, ting and keeping people, especially like the earned income tax credit or women, in the workforce,” sponsor the supplemental nutrition program Rep. Amy Elik, R-Godfrey, said. for women, infants and children, The IMA reaffirmed support for known as WIC—and it assumes three bills filed last spring, includthat 100 percent of eligible families ing two tax credits – one sponsored will claim the credit.

by Democrats, the other by RepubFrank Manzo, an economist with licans. The IMA did not provide ILEPI and co-author of that report, cost estimates for the tax credits. said a $300 per-child credit would Sen. Meg Loughran Cappel, be lower than in the other 15 states D-Shorewood, filed Senate Bill that have similar policies. Utah, 1313 to create a tax credit for busiCHRISthat FOX PHOTO Minnesota and Oregon, which en- nesses assistElmhurst their Independent employees acted a similar credit last year, all in repaying student loans. offer $1,000 or more in credits.

“Student debt is a huge issue.

“But it doesBucolo comport witha some This proposal an emAnthony fires pitch during a recentwould U12 allow baseball budgetary game. realities in the state of ployer to help offset about five CAPITOL NEWS ILLINOIS

U12 baseball action

thousand dollars per year,” IMA President and CEO Mark Denzler said. “It’s a great opportunity to help those individuals struggling with college debt while also making sure we have a great workforce.”

Sen. Donald DeWitte, R-St. Charles, filed Senate Bill 163 would make a temporary research and development tax credit permanent, rather than expiring every five years. The current credit will expire in 2027.

House Bill 3307 would amend graduation requirements for students entering high school in 2028, allowing them to fill the requirement of two foreign language courses with career-focused courses.

tility, certain prescription medications, and preservation of reproductive cells by amending the Illinois Insurance Code.

Senate Bill 2572 would require insurance coverage of procedures used to diagnose and treat infertility, as well as injectable medications used to treat prediabetes, gestational diabetes and obesity— all of which can make it harder to conceive and carry a baby to term.

Senate Bill 2623 would require insurers to cover the freezing of an individual’s reproductive cells without restriction or exclusion.

Another measure, Senate Bill 2639, would prevent insurance companies from denying infertility treatment coverage when recommended by a physician.

Fertility treatments Members of the state Senate Democratic Caucus introduced three bills Wednesday aimed at increasing access to infertility treatments and fertility preservation.

If passed, the bills would require insurance companies to cover the diagnosis and treatment of infer-

Safe screens initiative Another pair of bills introduced this week aim to create a safer online environment for children.

Sen. Sue Rezin’s, R-Morris, proposals mostly affect children’s data and privacy and how content is moderated.

The amended Age-Appropriate

IC Catholic Prep girls basketball team upends Chicago Latin School Knights finish regular season 22-9; Geiger leads way with 25 points

By Mike Miazga CORRESPONDENT

Player of the week sponsored by

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YORK HIGH SCHOOL PLAYER OF THE WEEK YORK HIGH SCHOOL PLAYER OF THE WEEK ANGELA STRANGARONE GIGI BARR GIRLS GYMNASTICS Stangarone, a senior, qualified for this weekend’s YORK GIRLS VOLLEYBALL

IHSA state finals meet at Palatine High School in all four Barr wasevents, the recipient Val Cothern individual as wellofasthe the2019-2020 all-around York competition.

Stangarone took second in the all-around scoring at the junior female athlete of the year award. Barr went over the Wheaton-Warrenville South sectional and finished second 1,000-career kill threshold last fall for the Dukes girls volleyon floor exercise at the sectional. ball team and still has a season to add to that total.

Design Code Act is a privacy law based on a similar one in California that Rezin said will help parents set stronger privacy settings and change how companies use children’s data, which she said can facilitate the development of addicting content.

Senate Bill 3355 would require social media companies to have a customer service line where concerned users can report inappropriate content that would need to be removed within 3 days.

Rezin said a third bill, which is still in development, would “require social media platforms to create an identity verification process.”

The senator compared social media to the tobacco and opiate industries, saying people cannot trust them to regulate themselves. She also said Illinoisans cannot wait for the federal government to take action.

“Parents are mad,” Rezin said.

“They want us to act and pass legislation to protect their children.

They don’t care if it’s a federal issue or a state issue.”

The IC Catholic Prep girls basketball team put a final stamp on its regular season in a big way by recording a 55-42 non-conference win over Chicago Latin School, a perennial formidable Class 2A opponent. “Latin has a pretty good team that is known for its full-court, man-to-man defense,” IC Catholic Prep coach Todd Fisher said.

“This was a good way to end the regular season.”

Allie Geiger led the Knights with 25 points, while Graziella Narcisi added six points and Kelsey McDonough also had six points. “We played a really good game,” Fisher added. “I was happy with the way the kids handled a pretty good full-court, man-to-man defense. I was proud of the way they ended the year against a good team.”

The win pushed the Knights to 22-9 overall.

Earlier, ICCP enjoyed senior night with a 45-22 non-conference win against Southland College Prep from the south suburbs. Analisa Raffaelli led the Knights with 11 points, while Geiger added eight points. “It was a fun evening for senior night,” Fisher said.

“We recognized a bunch of seniors for their hard work and dedication over the years. It was a very fun atmosphere for the seniors. They played well and we had a good game.”

“

The kids are focused. I know we have to take the one-game-at-a-time approach and they understand that and know that. The kids are pumped and excited. We have a lot of seniors, but we also have a mix of younger kids.

– Coach Todd Fisher

The Knights started last week with a 55-49 setback to former conference mate Elgin St. Edward. ICCP trailed 24-6 at halftime. “It was a tale of two halves,” Fisher said. “We outscored them by seven points in the second half. We started out slow and had a little foul trouble. In that first half, we couldn’t get any rhythm. St. Edward played a good first half and we had a slow start, but we fought back to the point it was a two-possession game late in the second half.

One thing I have learned late in the

year, and you usually don’t have too many games like this, we were down by 10 with under two minutes to go and we did not relent and we did not give up. We hunkered down and hit some 3s and played the foul game. Give St. Edward credit, they hit their free throws. I was proud of the kids. We didn’t quit and we made it a game late.” Mary Kate Hilgart led the Knights with 16 points, while Geiger had 13 points. Raffaelli chipped in eight points.

The Knights, a No. 1 Class 2A sub-sectional seed, opened postseason play earlier this week against No. 7 seed Chicago Perspectives/ IIT Math and Science. If the Knights won that game, they will play for the Class 2A Cristo Rey Jesuit regional title tonight against either No. 4 Chicago Acero/Soto or No. 5 Timothy Christian in the city at Cristo Rey. “I like where we are at,” Fisher said late last week. “We had a good practice (this past Saturday). The kids are focused. I know we have to take the one-game-at-a-time approach and they understand that and know that. The kids are pumped and excited. We have a lot of seniors, but we also have a mix of younger kids.

They know what is ahead. I am happy with what we are doing and where our heads are. Now, let’s go out and play.”

The Elmhurst Independent - Thursday, Feb. 15, 2024 • 19

Day in court postponed for former lawmaker who checked into hospital on eve of corruption trial Sam McCann, charged with misusing campaign funds, set for trial this week

CAPITOL NEWS ILLINOIS

On what was supposed to be the third morning of a weeklong corruption trial of former State Sen. Sam McCann, the onetime third-party candidate for governor instead video-conferenced into U.S. District Judge Colleen Lawless’ courtroom from his hospital bed.

McCann, who checked himself into Missouri Baptist Hospital in St. Louis after not feeling well over the weekend of Feb. 3-4, told the judge he didn’t know what medications he was on and didn’t want to say anything while drugged that might mislead her.

“I do not know that I can put a coherent thought together,” McCann said, eyes half-closed on the Zoom screen.

“Well, Mr. McCann, you are coherently speaking to me right now,” Lawless responded.

But the judge ultimately postponed the trial until this week, opting to forgo more incremental status hearings like the five that had already taken place since McCann failed to show up for his trial on Feb. 5.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Timothy Bass voiced his concern that by delaying the trial further, it would “reward” McCann. The former lawmaker was already granted a 10-week postponement when he suddenly fired his court-appointed lawyers the morning his trial was scheduled to begin in late November, and announced he’d be representing himself.

“It’s our belief...this entire situation is self-created by the defendant,” Bass told Lawless. “He’s continuing to lie to you. He knows exactly what medications he’s on.”

McCann tried to interject on the Zoom meeting broadcast into the courtroom.

“That’s not true,” he said.

Lawless said she understood Bass’ position that a delay in the trial was the outcome McCann wanted but said she didn’t believe it was “in the interest of justice” to force McCann to show up to trial beginning Feb. 8 after having been in the hospital for several days.

Bass had subpoenaed the hospital for McCann’s medical records and reiterated that most tests McCann underwent came back normal.

Bass was careful to not reveal

“

It’s our belief... this entire situation is self-created by the defendant.

He’s continuing to lie to you. He knows exactly what medications he’s on.”

– Timothy Bass, Assistant U.S. Attorney

any personal medical information in open court, though McCann told the judge on Feb. 6 that he was “hooked up to nitroglycerin and saline.” All signs indicated McCann would be discharged on Feb. 7, Bass said.

Although Bass had suggested McCann be confined to his home after leaving the hospital—citing his unemployed status—and asked Lawless to check that McCann had no more firearms in his possession, the judge declined.

“I’m not asking the defendant any further questions while he’s in the hospital,” she said, instead saying Bass could file a motion to request both of those things.

McCann spent eight years in the General Assembly, most of that time as a Republican. But in 2018 he left the GOP he believed wasn’t conservative enough under then-Republican Gov. Bruce Rauner. He then established the “Conservative Party” in Illinois and ran for governor on a third-party platform backed by organized labor—one of Rauner’s major foes.

Two years prior, McCann had gone toe-to-toe with Rauner in a battle over his Senate seat but won against the well-funded candidate the governor had backed against him.

During those election battles, McCann allegedly “engaged in a scheme to convert more than $200,000 in contributions and donations made to his campaign committees to pay himself and make personal purchases,” according to a news release from the U.S. Attorney’s office at the time of his indictment.

McCann allegedly used some of

District 88 Foundation holds pickleball tournament on March 2 Deadline to register is Feb. 26

The District 88 Foundation will hold its inaugural “Paddle Battle” pickleball tournament on Saturday, March 2, from 9 a.m. to noon. The tournament will take place in the field house at Willowbrook High School, 1250 S. Ardmore Ave. There will be two divisions of

play, based on skill level. Medals will be awarded, and there will be a raffle for prizes.

The deadline to sign up for the tournament is Monday, Feb. 26.

To register online, visit, www. dupage88.net/PickleballRegistration2024.

that money to pay his mortgage and personal debts, buy personal vehicles, and even paid himself.

In addition to spending roughly $60,000 on a truck and SUV, McCann also allegedly purchased two recreational vehicles with campaign

funds.

McCann sought to use those RVs as part of a scheme to channel campaign funds to himself through an Ohio RV rental business, according to the feds.

McCann also allegedly spent

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20 • Thursday, Feb. 15, 2024 - The Elmhurst Independent