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York Hockey heads to Red Division state championship game; first-ever achievement culminates Sunday at United Center

On the evening of Wednesday, March 8, in front of a sold-out crowd at The Edge arena in Bensenville, the York Varsity Dukes beat Loyola Gold 2-0 in the state final four playoffs to advance to the Red Division state championship game for the first time in York Hockey history. Senior Frank Nicosia scored the first and game-winning

goal at 7:32 in period 3, assisted by senior Eli Maurer. Junior Frank Rosa scored the second goal with 48 seconds left in period 3. The Dukes take on New Trier Green at the United Center on Sunday, March 19 at 3:30 p.m. Tickets can be purchased at Blackhawk.com/HSChampionships.

Elmhurst University to host 2nd annual TEDx on April 1

After a sold-out inaugural event, “TEDxElmhurstUniversity” is back.

The theme of this year ’s event, to be held on Saturday, April 1, is FIRSTS, and will feature a diverse group of speakers discussing topics ranging from autism to public art to slang and more.

This year ’s speakers represent a

cross-section from the University and the greater community. They include:

• Rajee Aerie ’07, an actor, model, product specialist and speaker. Her talk is about “How Love Can Transform Your Setback Into a Superpower.”

• Rafael Blanco, M.F.A., a public

artist and assistant professor of art at Elmhurst University. His topic is “Public Art as a Public Service.”

• Gena Cox, Ph.D., an industrial and organizational psychologist. She will discuss “Skirting Career Quicksand: A ‘Yes … And’ Strategy.”

• Liza Gabrek MPH ’23, a graduate student in the master of public

At Ash Wednesday services

IC Pastor, Very Reverend Thomas Paul, distributes ashes to an ICGS preschool student following Ash Wednesday Mass on Feb. 22. The preschoolers had a special ash service following the Mass, in preparation for the season of Lent.

health program at Elmhurst University. She will present “Second Firsts.”

• William Hirstein, Ph.D., a professor of philosophy at Elmhurst University. His talk is titled “Is Human Consciousness Actually Private?”

• Neeraja Kumar, a high school student, will talk about “Walking the Path of Firsts Towards Adulthood.”

• Marvin Malone MBA ’23, creative project manager at NBCUniversal and an MBA candidate at Elmhurst University. He will address “Speaking to the Crowd.”

• Lukas Munoz ’23, an economics and philosophy student at Elmhurst University. His talk is titled “A Dream Deferred.”

• Morgan Ogunleye ’23, an Elmhurst University nursing student. Her address is titled “The Art of Unlearning.”

• Felicia Shakespeare ’96, an educator, author and founder of A Purpose Driven Woman LLC. She will present “You Are Your Brand: Building From the Inside Out!”

• Sarah Strom Kays ’90, Ph.D., associate professor and chair of the Department of Communication and Media at Elmhurst University. Her talk is entitled “Say What? Slang is More Than ‘Being Hip.’”

• Angela Williams ’06, a school administrator, learning behavior specialist, and faculty director of Turning Pointe Autism Foundation. She will discuss “Fears, Failures and Firsts in Autism.”

TEDxElmhurstUniversity 2023 will be held on Saturday, April 1, beginning at 3 p.m. in the Mill Theatre on the campus of Elmhurst University. For directions, visit elmhurst.edu/ campusmap.

General admission is $15 (with a two-ticket maximum due to limited seating). Tickets are available at elmhurst.edu/tedx. If demand permits, an on-campus livestream option may be made available. For more information, email marketing@elmhurst. edu.

TED began in 1984 as a conference where Technology, Entertainment and Design converged, and

today covers almost all topics — from science to business to global issues — in more than 100 languages. Meanwhile, independently run TEDx events help share ideas in communities around the world. More than 3,000 events are now held annually.

Last year’s TEDxElmhurstUniversity featured 14 talks whose videos have since garnered thousands of views on TED.com and YouTube. They also can be viewed at elmhurst. edu/TEDx.

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Eight individuals face burglary, other charges in three unrelated incidents

DuPage County businesses robbed of merchandise valued at more than $4,000

On Monday, March 13, DuPage County State’s Attorney Robert Berlin announced that bond had been set for eight individuals accused of stealing merchandise from DuPage County businesses in three unrelated incidents.

Defendants Jeana Ziko, 36, Debra Ziko, 56, and Christopher Ziko, 55, all of the 5300 block of N. Lincoln Avenue, Chicago, along with Mark Ziko, 53, of the 6000 block of W. Giddings, Chicago, all appeared in bond court on Friday, March 10, where Judge Mia McPherson set bond. All four defendants are charged with one count of Burglary (Class 2 Felony) and one count of Retail Theft (Class 3 Felony). In addition, Jeana Ziko is charged with one count of Possession of a Controlled Substance (Class 4 Felony).

Obituaries

Kar En BoozEll, 63 Services Thurs., Fri.

Karen Olivi Boozell, of Elmhurst, passed away the morning of March 12, 2023 at Ascension Alexian Brothers in Elk Grove Village. She was 63 years old. She was born on Monday, Aug. 17, 1959 at Little Company of Mary in Evergreen Park, to Adolph and Mary Jane Olivi.

Karen grew up in Roseland and Lansing and graduated from Thornton Fractional South High School. She then went on to attend Eastern Illinois University, where she met her husband, Mark Boozell. They were married on Dec. 22, 1984 and had two children, Marcus and Joe.

She had a passion for helping others and dedicated her professional and personal life to doing so. Karen worked in District 90 in River Forest for many decades as a special needs teacher and administrator, retiring in 2018. She made an immeasurable impact on countless students’ lives.

Karen dearly loved her family and friends and had various hobbies and interests, including playing the flute at Visitation Catholic Church, where she was a faithful member, as well as tennis, bike riding, rescuing dogs, and of course, her beloved Chicago White Sox.

She was incredibly warm, caring, generous, motivated and adventurous. Karen can accurately be described as the glue of her family, immediate and extended, and she will dearly be missed by all.

Karen was preceded in death by her brother, Thomas Olivi.

She is survived by her husband, Mark Boozell of Elmhurst; her parents, Adolph and Mary Jane Olivi of Elmhurst; her children, Marcus (Suzanne) Boozell of Mount Pleas-

On Friday, March 10, defendants Dyasia Reese, 25, and Mikell Nunley, 24, both of St. Louis, appeared in bond court where Judge Michael Reidy set bond. Both Reese and Nunley are charged with one count of Burglary (Class 2 Felony) and one count of Retail Theft (Class 3 Felony).

In a third incident, defendants Jara Tramble, 28, of the 300 block of E. Kensington Avenue, Chicago and Ashley Washington, 29, of the 5600 block of W. 103rd in Oak Lawn, both appeared in bond court on Saturday, March 11. Tramble is charged with one count of Burglary (Class 2 Felony) and two counts of Retail Theft (Class 3 Felony). Washington is charged with one count of Burglary (Class 2 Felony) and one count of Retail Theft (Class 3 Felony).

In the first incident, it is alleged that on Thursday, March 9, at approximately 5:15 p.m., Jeana, Debra and Christopher Ziko entered the Mariano’s grocery store located at 150 West 63rd Street in Westmont, while Mark Ziko waited outside. It is alleged that once in the store, the defendants took merchandise from the store including formula, Red Bull, detergent, cat food and Nexium® totaling approximately $1,300 and walked past the registers with the items without paying. Authorities from the store contacted the Westmont Police Department who arrived at the store and took all four defendants into custody. It is further alleged that Jeana Ziko was in possession of approximately 4.5 grams of fentanyl when she was taken into custody.

Oak Brook Police Department responded to a call of a retail theft at the Old Navy store located at 2155 22nd Street. It is alleged that two individuals, later identified as Tramble and Washington, entered the Old Navy store, removed security sensors on merchandise totaling approximately $910 and then left the store with the merchandise. Through the course of their investigation, authorities were able to locate both Tramble and Washington from a nearby store where they were taken into custody.

ant, So. Car., and Joe Boozell (Olivia Toriumi) of Chicago; her sister, Terry Olivi (Jerry Duncker) of Chicago; as well as many nieces, nephews and close friends.

A visitation will be held on Thursday, March 16 from 4 – 7 p.m. on Elmhurst Community Funeral Home –The Ahlgrim Chapel, 567 Spring Rd. Funeral Mass will be held at 10 a.m. on Friday, March 17, at Visitation Catholic Church, 779 S York St. Interment at Queen of Heaven Catholic Cemetery, Hillside.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made in Karen’s honor to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society at givenow.lls.org; the Muscular Dystrophy Association at mdadonordrive.com; or the Chicago White Sox Charities at whitesoxcharities.givingfuel.com/general-donation.

Arrangements in care of Elmhurst Community Funeral Home – The Ahlgrim Chapel. For information, 630-834-3515 or www.elmhurstfh. com.

FrancE s T. BorTa , 89

Frances T.

Borta, longtime resident of Elmhurst, passed away peacefully on March 5, 2023, age 89.

Loving wife of the late Frank W. Borta, Loving mother of seven children: Dan (Cheryl), Barb (Jeff Whitney), Bill, Mariann (Matt DuPont), Frank (Lisa), Jim (Karen), Steve (Andreas.) Loving grandma of 18, Loving Great Grandma of 2. Dear sister of Loretta (the late Arnold Kirby.) Memorial service and interment will be private.

Arrangements provided by Elmhurst Community Funeral Home – The Ahlgrim Chapel. For information, 630-834-3515 or www.elmhurstfh.com.

On Thursday, March 9, at approximately 5:48 p.m., officers with the Lombard Police Department responded to a call of a retail theft in progress at the Dick’s Sporting Goods located at 810 East Butterfield Rd. It is alleged that officers encountered Reese and Nunley exiting the store with multiple items of men’s and women’s clothing they had not paid for, totaling approximately $1,800. Both defendants were taken into custody following a brief foot-pursuit.

Also on Friday, March 10, at approximately 2 p.m., officers with the

“According to the National Retail Foundation, in 2022, retail establishments across the county lost a combined estimated $34.96 billion due to retail theft,” Berlin said. “That is a staggering amount of loss that can translate to higher prices for consumers, lower wages for employees and in the worst cases, lost businesses for proprietors. In DuPage County, law enforcement and my office will do everything we can to protect our retail establishments and hold accountable anyone who commits the type of criminal behavior as alleged in these cases.”

Members of the public are reminded that this complaint contains only charges and is not proof of the defendants’ guilt. The defendants are presumed innocent and are entitled to a fair trial in which it is the government’s burden to prove their guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.

10U Extreme wins Roma tournament

SUBMITTED PHOTO Elmhurst Independent

The 10u Elmhurst Extreme Orange baseball team travelled to Frankfort to play a pre-season indoor tournament at the Roma Sports Club last weekend. The team finished in 1st place out of 16 teams. The Extreme players won the championship after going a perfect 5-0 and beating teams from Homewood, Oak Forest, Lemont, Western Springs and Tinley Park. Players and coaches are pictured with their championship rings. (bottom row, from left): Dominic Magnelli, Parker Gabuzda, Liam Northern, Jack Steinecker, Tyler Langenstrass and Logan Osbolt; (middle row): Chase Olsen, Brandon Crouch, AJ Fleming, Grant Rodriguez, and Andrew Boeh; (top row): Coach Fleming, Coach Rodriguez and Coach Steinecker.

KELLY’S QUALIFICATIONS & PRIORITIES:

• Master’s Degree in Education w/ School Counseling Specialization.

• K-12 School Counselor, D205 PTA President and Parent.

• Kelly values bringing school counseling educators to the board and implementing support programs that foster the whole child; Improving district achievement and using her experience to analyze data and target learning gaps; Providing clear communication to the community while encouraging feedback.

• Please Vote April 4th! 434162

www.kellyasseffd205.com

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Police beat

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

March 5

Joseph Pelliccioni, 28, of Downers Grove, was charged with attempted aggravated battery to a police officer, criminal damage to state supported property, criminal trespass to state supported property, resisting arrest and violation of bail bond in the 100 block of W. First at 1:16 p.m. Police said the suspect broke the glass door located on the west side of the train depot. Officers located the suspect who allegedly resisted officers while being placed under arrest.

March 4

Police said that subsequent to a well-being check, a victim in the 400 block of W. Butterfield reported at 8:11 a.m. that she was battered by an employee. An investigation is pending.

Domestic battery, disorderly conduct, domestic incident, disturbance

March 8

John West, 64, of Addison, was issued a citation for disorderly conduct in the 300 block of W. St. Charles at 2:26 p.m. Police said West admitted to urinating on the property.

March 7

A 20-year-old Chicago woman was charged with two counts of domestic battery and consumption of alcohol by a minor in the 500 block of W. Grand at 11:45 p.m. Police said that upon their arrival, the victim alleged that subsequent to a verbal argument, the suspect struck him.

March 5

A complainant in the 200 block of N. Clinton told police at 9:11 a.m. that he was struck by a suspect during a verbal argument. The complainant had no visible injuries and refused to sign complaints.

A 29-year-old Elmhurst man was charged with two counts of domestic battery in the 600 block of N. Indiana at 9:21 p.m. A victim reported the suspect struck him following a verbal argument.

March 4

Police said Elmhurst Hospital staff reported a suspect was verbally aggressive and threatening staff members. He was served with a no trespass notice.

Feb. 27

A victim in the 600 block of N. Larch told police at 9:47 a.m. that while he was leaving his place of employment, a suspect spat on him. The suspect denied any claims. An investigation is pending.

Fleeing, eluding

According to information provided last week by the Elmhurst Police Department, police reported one incident of fleeing and eluding during which the driver of a vehicle fled the scene after being stopped for a traffic stop by police.

CALL 800-222-TIPS

DUI, DUI-drugs, transportation of open alcohol, possession of open alcohol, consumption of alcohol by a minor

March 5

Latavia Robertson, 23, of Sauk Village, was charged with DUI, improper lane usage and disobeying a traffic control signal subsequent to a traffic stop near North and Route 83 at 12:15 a.m.

March 4

Steven Jackson, 53, of Chicago, was charged with aggravated DUI, DUI, driving while license revoked, speeding, improper lane usage, illegal transportation of open alcohol and no insurance subsequent to a traffic stop near North and Melrose at 2:45 a.m.

Jose J. Serna, 21, of Glendale Heights, was charged with DUI, parking on the railroad tracks and no insurance subsequent to a report of a vehicle stuck on the railroad tracks near Maple and the Union Pacific Railroad at 3:15 a.m.

March 3

Shawn Eric Spector, 53, of Melrose Park, was charged with DUI and illegal transportation of open alcohol near Grand and Industrial at 1:07 p.m.

Harassment, threats

March 3-March 7

A victim in the 400 block of W. Grantley told police he sent an explicit photo to an unknown suspect. The suspect demanded money from the victim and threatened to post the photo on social media.

Identity theft, fraud, forgery

According to information provided by the Elmhurst Police Department, police reported seven incidents in which a victim’s identity was fraudulently used.

Possession of a controlled substance

March 4

Piotr M. Gajdosz, 36, of Villa Park, was charged with unlawful possession of a controlled substance near St. Charles and West at 1:44 p.m.

Suspicious incident

March 6-March 7

A complainant in the 600 block of S. Poplar told police that while checking on her parents’

home, she noticed footprints on the exterior of the screen door and another one on the exterior of the heavy door for the residence. Nothing appeared to be missing and no entry was made to the residence.

March 1-March 3

A complainant in the 600 block of N. Emory related that she found a bullet hole in her garage door, and a bullet was recovered from the scene. It appears to have been fired from a long distance.

Theft or burglary /retail theft/forgery/deceptive practice/obstruction/ robbery

March 5-March 8

A victim near Park and Cottage Hill told police that he mailed a check to pay for his electric bill. Upon checking his bank statement, he found the check had been washed and cashed.

March 3

A complainant in the 100 block of W. Vallette reported at 5:24 p.m. that several political signs were taken from her yard. This case is pending investigation.

March 2

A complainant at a auto dealership in the 500 block of W. Grand reported at 10:13 a.m. that a silver Chevrolet Impala was missing from their dealership lot. Upon further investigation, it was learned an unknown suspect(s) gained access to the vehicle and drove it away. This case is pending investigation.

Feb. 28-March 1

A complainant at a business in the 100 block of W. Industrial told police that an unknown suspect(s) broke into seven storage lockers

and removed several items. An investigation is pending.

Theft of catalytic converters

According to information provided last week by the Elmhurst Police Department, police reported one incident of catalytic converters being removed and stolen from a vehicle: at a business in the 600 block of W. Grand sometime between Feb. 8 and March 1.

Retail theft

March 7

Police said officers responded to a store in the 600 block of N. York at 5:43 p.m. for the report of a retail theft in progress. The complainant related the suspect left the store without paying for an unknown amount of items. An investigation is pending.

March 5

Police said that subsequent to a report of a retail theft that had just occurred at a store in the 100 block of E. Schiller at 9:02 p.m., suspects fled the area in a dark colored SUV. Police said officers located the suspects’ vehicle and made contact with the occupants who were found to be in possession of stolen merchandise. Casha Jackson, 37, of Chicago, was charged with retail theft, driving while license revoked and was transported to the DuPage County Jail.

A complainant at a store in the 300 block of S. Route 83 reported at 11:15 a.m. that an unknown suspect(s) took several items and exited the store without paying.

A complainant at a store in the 300 block of S. Route 83 reported at 5:25 p.m. that two suspects purchased merchandise using forged currency. The suspects then exited the store with additional merchandise they had not purchased. This case is pending investigation.

Woman charged with leading police on high-speed chase

Berlin notes rise in incidents of fleeing, eluding

DuPage County State’s Attorney Robert Berlin and Illinois State Police Troop 15 Commander Linda Mandat announced last week that bond had been set for a Sleepy Hollow woman accused of leading police on a high-speed chase.

Tianna Bryson, 23, appeared at a bond hearing where Judge Brian Telander set bond at $25,000 with 10 percent to apply. Bryson is charged with one count of aggravated fleeing and eluding a police officer (Class 4 felony) and multiple misdemeanor and petty traffic offenses including two counts of speeding 35+ mph over the limit (Class A misdemeanor).

On Tuesday, March 7 at approximately 12:27 p.m., an Illinois State Trooper allegedly observed Bryson’s 2016 Volkswagen Jetta traveling 107 mph in a 60-mph zone westbound on I-88 in Naperville.

The trooper performed a traffic stop on the vehicle. It is alleged however, that as the trooper walked towards Bryson’s vehicle, she fled

the scene at a high rate of speed. The trooper reinitiated the pursuit, during which Bryson allegedly reached speeds as high as 120 mph, was weaving in and out of traffic and at one time, drove on the shoulder of the road. The trooper ultimately terminated the pursuit for safety reasons. Through the course of their work on this case, authorities identified Bryson as the driver of the vehicle. She turned herself in to authorities later that evening.

“The surge in recent months of motorists fleeing from police is of great concern as this type of behavior is extremely dangerous and poses a threat not only to the driver, but also puts the police officers involved and motoring public at great risk,” Berlin said. “Thankfully, no innocent motorists or bystanders were injured or worse as a result of Ms. Bryson’s alleged actions. The message is simple: if you hear sirens and see flashing lights behind you, pull over. Leading police on a high-speed chase is not the answer and will only make matters worse.”

Bryson’s next court appearance is scheduled for April 4 for arraignment in front of Judge Telander.

Tianna Bryson

Illinois Supreme Court grants expedited appeal in assault weapons ban case

Macon County judge ruled parts of the law unconstitutional

By Peter Hancock CAPITOL NEWS ILLINOIS

The Illinois Supreme Court agreed last week to fast-track the state’s appeal of a Macon County judge’s ruling against parts of a recently passed state ban on assault weapons and high-capacity magazines.

Lawmakers passed the ban during a lame duck session in January and Gov. JB Pritzker signed it into law almost immediately. The law came in response to numerous mass shootings in the United States, including at an Independence Day parade in Highland Park last summer in which the shooter used an assault-style weapon, killing seven people and in-

juring dozens of others.

The new law bans the sale and manufacture of a long list of firearms defined as “assault weapons,” assault weapon attachments, .50-caliber rifles and .50-caliber cartridges, as well as large-capacity magazines.

The law allows people who already own such items to keep them, but it restricts their ability to sell or transfer them to someone else.

And it requires current owners of such weapons to register them with the Illinois State Police by Jan. 1, 2024.

The law also exempts certain people from the ban, including current and retired law enforcement offi-

cers; wardens, superintendents and keepers of state and federal prisons; members of the armed services or reserve forces while they are performing official duties or traveling to or from their places of duty; and companies that employ armed security guards at federally supervised nuclear sites.

Passage of the law prompted immediate legal challenges in both state and federal courts by gun rights advocates who said it violated both the Illinois and U.S. constitutions.

One of those suits was filed by a group of plaintiffs led by Republican state Rep. Dan Caulkins, of Decatur.

On March 3, Judge Rodney S.

Pritzker touts $70 million plan for addressing teacher shortage Grant program targets vacancies in 170 school districts accounting for 80 percent of vacancies

By Nika Schoonover CAPITOL NEWS ILLINOIS

Gov. JB Pritzker recently highlighted a proposed grant program that would direct $70 million per year over the next three years to school districts facing the greatest teacher shortages.

The Teacher Pipeline Grant Program, which Pritzker included in his budget proposal to lawmakers, would target vacancies in 170 school districts that account for 80 percent of all unfilled teaching positions in Illinois.

The districts would have “maximum flexibility” to decide how the funds are disbursed, according to a news release.

Funds could be used for signing bonuses, housing stipends, down-payment assistance and providing residencies or apprenticeships, among other hiring incentives.

Districts may also use the funding to reimburse tuition and fees or to provide teaching supplies, coaching and additional school support.

“The result will be that over 870,000 Illinois students will see an improved teacher-student ratio, a critical factor in classroom success,” Pritzker said at a news conference.

“Our collective goals are to make sure we have enough great teachers in every classroom.”

The governor touted some of his earlier accomplishments aimed at improving the teaching workforce, including increasing the teacher minimum wage, increasing scholarships and grants for aspiring teachers, and reducing the reinstatement fees for a lapsed educator license.

Pritzker also made a call to other teachers in surrounding states to move to Illinois.

“We have surrounding states where teachers are paid less than teachers in the state of Illinois and

I want to formally invite every teacher in every state surrounding us to jump over the border,” Pritzker said, eliciting laughter from the crowd.

He was joined by newly appointed State Superintendent of Education Tony Sanders, a former superintendent for Elgin Area School District U46, the second largest school district in Illinois.

Sanders pointed to Illinois State Board of Education data that shows Illinois schools reported 3,558 unfilled teaching positions as of October 2022.

“These shortages don’t just affect students equally. These vacancies are concentrated in bilingual education, special education and STEM,” Sanders said.

“This is why the teacher pipeline program will target districts with the resources they need to solve locally the challenges they have for recruitment and retention and remove barriers preventing aspiring educators from pursuing a calling to teaching.”

In addition to the grant program, ISBE will also spend $6 million in federal funds to hire a multimedia advertising and marketing firm to create a statewide teacher recruitment campaign.

The governor has spent several recent news conferences publicizing his plans on education issues, including his proposed “Smart Start” program to expand access to preschool and child care throughout the state.

In the weeks following his budget address, he visited Springfield, Rockford, East St. Louis, Chicago, Mount Vernon, Chicago, Peoria and Macomb to rally support for the plan.

“When I came into office, the state of Illinois was providing nearly the lowest percentage of school funding for K-12 and P-12,” Pritzker said. “That was four years

Forbes ruled that the exceptions to the assault weapons ban violate the equal protection clause in the Illinois Constitution as well as the “special legislation” clause that prohibits the General Assembly from passing “a special or local law when a general law can be made applicable.”

“We look forward to vigorously defending this final judgment by Judge Forbes,” Caulkins said at a news conference March 8. “We believe that we have the facts on our side.”

That decision, the judge wrote, was based on a 5th District Court of Appeals ruling in another case in which an Effingham County judge had granted a temporary restraining order to block enforcement of the ban. That order, however, applied

only to the roughly 800 plaintiffs who were named in the case. That case, Accuracy Firearms LLC v. Pritzker, also is on appeal before the Supreme Court.

Although the Accuracy Firearms case went through an appellate court before reaching the Supreme Court, Attorney General Kwame Raoul appealed the Caulkins case directly to the high court.

In both cases, Raoul filed motions for an expedited hearing schedule. But on March 7, the court chose to take only one, accepting the Caulkins case and denying the motion in the Accuracy Firearms case.

According to the court’s order, oral arguments in the Caulkins case are scheduled to be heard sometime in May.

ago. But during the last four years, with the General Assembly’s help, we’ve addressed this woeful underfunding of K-12 education with an increase of more than $1.5 billion from the state of Illinois.”

His proposed plan calls for $250 million to fund the first year of Smart Start and an additional $350 million aimed at the Evidence Based Funding formula.

DIABETES AND REGULAR EXAMS

Diabetes is the leading cause of adultonset blindness in the United States. It is important that diabetics undergo regular vision screenings to help prevent retinopathy which is bleeding in the back of your eye. Diabetic Retinopathy is a condition when elevated blood sugars damage the small blood vessels in the eye and cause bleeding. Quite often, it is the eye that first gives warning of impending Diabetes. In the disease’s early stages, a person may experience no symptoms or only a mild blurring of their vision. Most people attribute that to thinking they are in need of a prescription change in their glasses. Other signs that may be overlooked are increased fatigue, thirst, and urination. It’s been said that the eyes are the window to the body. If there is evidence of advanced diabetes in the eye, chances are there are advanced diabetic changes throughout the body. To properly monitor, diabetics and pre-diabetics need to have annual exams with dilation or retinal photography. At Skowron Eyecare, we have all the technology and experience to diagnose and monitor your diabetic eye health, and have been doing so for over 30 yrs.

Viewpoint

Slices

of life

Like my cat

This morning I woke up late. I’d planned on an earlier day, but sleep had other plans.

As I got up and got ready for the rest of my day, my cat lounged comfortably under the covers. She made a snoozy sound and curled into herself for some more and much-needed even-later morning sleep. It was at that moment I realized something important.

I want to be more like my cat.

I want to sleep in late, when I feel like it and take a nap later because that feels good too.

But that’s only the beginning. I want to bask in the sunshine.

My kitty can find a spot of sunshine in any room at any time any day.

When she does, she puts herself smack dab in the middle of it and sets out to do what she does best: relax and soak it all in.

I want to live in the moment.

My kitty gets a special treat every day at 4:00, but she doesn’t worry about this at 11 a.m. or even 3 p.m.

At 11, she is most likely sleeping and at 3 most likely napping. She isn’t worried about the treats in her future.

She just lives (or sleeps as the case may be) in the moment. When it is treat-time, she enters the kitchen with tail held high and happy—a sign of confidence— because that is all that living in the moment requires.

I want to eat the good treats first—at least sometimes. These days my diet focuses on two things: Health and hydration. My kitty hardly ever ponders health. I do that for her. She has heathy cat food and then slightly less healthy treats.

She always eats the treats first because they taste better. I get that. I also get health. It’s a balance. Between the two of us, we are working on it.

I want to strut my stuff. My kitty walks with her tail held high, clearly proud of her new collar, and especially its bell. It announces her presence in a room and she seems to revel in this power.

I want to purr from deep within, without even knowing why or how this occurs. I want others to know I’m happy because my joy resonates so loudly that it can’t be ignored.

I want to land on my feet. Cats have an uncanny ability to jump from high places and consistently and conveniently land on all fours. I want to conquer any adversity in my path and come out on the other end still standing.

By JILL PERTLER Columnist

I want to keep it neat, complete and inside the litter box.

Cats know and recognize some of the basic tenets of life - like pooping. They don’t get all messy with their urination or defection. We all have messiness in our lives. Cats understand this and keep it contained - in a box. I’d love to take all of the messy aspects of my life and box them up.

On the flip side, my cat thinks outside the litter box. She loves to look out the windows to the outside world. Her inside world is only enhanced by the world outside - even if it is safer for her to view it from behind a pane of glass.

This doesn’t deter her. Not in the least. She still quivers at the sight of a squirrel or bird. She hunts them without hunting, but at the same time with the wildness of a lioness.

It’s a sight to see. Her imagination and resourcefulness are to be admired.

When given the chance, she embraces the chance to be outdoors, beyond the glass, in the truest sense. She’s been known to track mice, snakes, birds, squirrels and any critters worth crittering with near reckless abandon. I appreciate her passion and love of adventure.

I want to think outside the box and pursue adventure whenever the door is open—or whenever given the chance.

I want to be honest and unapologetic in all that I do. My cat doesn’t fake it. If she loves you, she lets you know— wholeheartedly. If she harbors distain for you, well, ditto. She is either all-in or all-out and there is no guessing about where she stands. She isn’t a people pleaser, yet she pleases me all the time. She walks the line without ever walking the line, and I love her for her honesty.

That, and her gorgeous collar.

Jill Pertler is an award-winning syndicated columnist, published playwright, author and member of the National Society of Newspaper Columnists. Don’t miss a slice; follow the Slices of Life page on Facebook.

By Jerry Nowicki CAPITOL NEWS ILLINOIS

With two months to go before the adjournment of Illinois’ spring legislative session, Gov. JB Pritzker’s state budgeting task may have gotten easier.

The Commission on Government Forecasting Accountability increased its revenue estimate for the current fiscal year by $575 million— yet another positive development in a monthslong streak of revenue growth.

The commission is a bipartisan, bicameral group of lawmakers and is staffed by nonpartisan economic analysts.

“You can see in every single month so far this fiscal year we’ve actually had a gain where we’ve generated more revenue in this fiscal year compared to the same time a year ago,” Eric Noggle, senior revenue analyst for COGFA, said at the commission’s March 7 meeting.

All told, COGFA anticipates revenues for the fiscal year that ends June 30 to exceed original estimates by $5.5 billion, rising to a record $51.9 billion.

Much of that surplus has already been appropriated. Lawmakers allocated at least $3.6 billion supplemental spending package in its January lame duck session, and Pritzker pro-

posed spending another $490 million by the end of the fiscal year when presenting his proposal for next year’s budget last month.

COGFA’s new estimate for the current fiscal year is $545 million beyond the amount assumed by the Governor’s Office of Management and Budget in Pritzker’s budget proposal.

COGFA is also projecting stronger revenues in the upcoming Fiscal Year 2024 than the most recent estimate from GOMB. The $50.4 billion COGFA estimate marks an increase of $465 million beyond the revenues the governor proposed.

Noggle noted that COGFA’s estimate was higher than GOMB’s because the commission had an extra half of January and all of February to factor into its projections. Because base revenue growth remained strong over that span, the commission was able to increase the estimate. That drove up the current year base revenues, which in turn drove up estimates for next fiscal year.

In recent years, lawmakers have directed surpluses to retiring debts early, increasing payments to the state’s pension system and to longterm savings. For the upcoming fiscal year, Pritzker has proposed added spending across state government— especially on child care and educa-

tion—while adding an extra $200 million to the pension fund.

Read more: Pritzker lays out $49.6 billion spending plan

The March 7 update could give the governor additional breathing room to usher his budget through the General Assembly and—if the past is any guide—potentially increase pension contributions or long-term savings.

Noggle said the expected growth was driven by strong performances in the state’s base tax revenue sources—corporate and personal income tax and sales tax driven higher by inflation.

The good revenue news in COGFA’s March update was the continuation of a nationwide state revenue boom which the Pew Charitable Trusts predicted last month could be reaching an “inflection point.”

That report was highlighted by the Illinois Department of Revenue in its testimony to a House committee recently. Pew calculated Illinois’ post2020 revenue growth at 10.8 percent over what it was expected to be based on pre-pandemic trends. That put Illinois at the third-best growth of all states.

Still, IDOR, GOMB and COGFA are all in general agreement that a recession is on the horizon—or at least

Analysis: State revenue projections increase again in fiscal year’s final stretch

$575 million increase gives Pritzker leeway in budget talks as fears of recession persist

Spartans take second in League playoffs

BRENDA GARCIA PHOTO Elmhurst Independent

Demetrios Spartans High School Boys Basketball team won second place in the Greek Orthodox Basketball League Playoffs on Feb.

real estate/Business

News briefs

CBE welcomes new IT administrator Community Bank of Elmhurst has announced that Brandon Woolbright has been hired as of Feb. 22 in the Information Technology area working with senior vice president for Information Technology, Abel Rubio. Woolbright is a recent graduate of Elmhurst University. “Brandon will be a great help to CBE and to me,” Rubio said. “The IT area is an ever-changing one and Brandon will assist us with our information systems to assure we continue serving our customers and friends with reliability in our programs.” CBE has two locations, one at 330 W. Butterfield Rd. and a second in downtown Elmhurst at 133 No. York. For more information, call 630-782-1234 or visit communityelmhurst.com.

EEHealth seeks applicants for Community Investment Fund

Edward-Elmhurst accepting pro-

posals for awards from Community Investment Fund

Edward-Elmhurst Health (EEH) is accepting applications from not-forprofit and nonprofit charitable organizations for monetary awards from its Community Investment Fund. The Fund will allocate up to $5 million to community organizations in 2023 in the areas of Community Health and Wellbeing and Local Economic Growth. Proposals for EEH’s 2023 funding cycle will be accepted online until April 15. To submit a proposal and to learn more about EEH’s Community Investment Fund, including award eligibility and evaluation criteria, visit eehealth.org/about-us/ community-investment-fund.

Park District to build new park with the help of state grant

Last week, Governor Pritzker announced the Elmhurst Park District was a recipient of an Open Space Land Acquisition and Development

personal training for adults over

grant in the amount of $340,300 to be used to fund half the cost of the planned $680,000 development of a brand-new park in the Pick Subdivision called Pick Park. The Park District anticipates completing design development and engineering this year with construction beginning and

the new park opening in 2024.

In September 2022 a master plan for the park was approved that was created based on feedback gathered from Pick Subdivision neighbors through open houses and surveys. It includes playground equipment for 2–5-year-olds and 5-12 year olds,

soft surfacing, game tables, a bean bag toss, shade shelter, adult fitness equipment, bike repair station and bike racks.

The plan also includes a split rail fence to serve as a buffer to the Salt Creek Greenway Trail, along which the park resides.

Guitarra Azul ensemble returns to Music@Bethel series

Returning by popular demand, Grammy-nominated Guitarra Azul will perform at Bethel United Church of Christ on Saturday, March 25 at 7 p.m. as part of the church’s Music@ Bethel Concert Series. With their breathtaking techniques, irresistible rhythms, world class musicianship and spirited dance, Guitarra Azul promises to transport you to another place and time.

Guitarra Azul (Spanish for blue guitar) is a six-piece Chicago-based band consisting of Spanish guitars, conga drums, percussion and bass. The group’s all-original music is best described as a mix of rumba, flamenco, Latin jazz, and world music, performed by an international line up of virtuoso musicians.

Members of the ensemble include Steve Edwards, guitar; David Chiri-

boga, guitar; Rafe Bradford, bass; Osvaldo “Ozzie” Aviles, percussion; and, Ronaldo Monge and Nalanie Molina, performing dance.

Guitarra Azul has been steadily making a name for itself as a dynamic and endearing live act. With its captivating charisma, dynamic virtuosity, soul stirring and heartfelt melodies, conspicuous camaraderie, and masterful techniques, Guitarra Azul appeals to all lovers of fine music.

Since its inception, the Music@ Bethel Concert Series has been under the artistic direction of worldclass, award-winning pianist Jeffrey Panko, minister of music at Bethel Church and a frequent performer in the series.

“Guitarra Azul’s stunning performances as part of Music@Bethel’s concert series have consistently

been the most exciting and riveting concerts I have ever had the good fortune to hear,” Panko said. “Our audience can assuredly expect yet another passionate, vivacious performance showcasing family-friendly accessibility and a warmth of spirit that would appeal to all music lovers.”

A reception will follow, where guests can enjoy refreshments while mingling with other music lovers.

Bethel United Church of Christ is located at 315 East St. Charles Road in Elmhurst. Tickets are available on Eventbrite or by calling 630-2794040. Tickets are $20 and students are free. The church is fully-accessible and parking is free. Enter at the Sandburg Middle School entrance from St. Charles Road, or from Huntington off Poplar Street.

Steve Edwards and David Chiriboga are the guitarists who make up part of the group known as Guitarra Azul, (Spanish for blue guitar), which combines irresistible rhythms and world class musicianship with spirited dance. Guitarra Azul will perform for the Music@Bethel concert series on Saturday, March 25 at 7 p.m. at Bethel United Church of Christ, 315 E. St. Charles Road in Elmhurst, next to Sandburg Middle School. Tickets are $20 per person and can be obtained on Eventbrite or by calling 630-279-4040. Students may attend free. The church is fully-accessible and parking is free.

SUBMITTED PHOTO Elmhurst Independent

Elmhurst Public Library programs

Friday, March 17 from 2-4 p.m.

Friday Features: The Fabelmans

Enjoy an afternoon at the movies. Find each week’s featured film at elmlib.org/Friday. No registration required.

Saturday, March 18 from 10 a.m.-12 p.m.

Canasta

Join us for a friendly game of Canasta every week. Prior experience is required. Live in-person. No registration required.

Monday, March 20 from 10-11 a.m.

Soft Skills Development

Soft skills are highly sought after by employers, yet underestimated by job seekers. These important character traits and interpersonal skills influence how well you can work or interact with others. In this workshop, you’ll discover the importance of soft skills, how to develop them, and how to incorporate them into your job search.

Presented with People’s Resource Center. Live in-person. Registration required.

• Analysis

they are relying on outside economic forecasts that predict such a scenario.

While IDOR’s presentation last week noted a recession could occur in the first two quarters of the current calendar year, COGFA and GOMB had a different take.

Monday, March 20 from 7-8:30 p.m. Ciao Italia!

Improve your Italian language skills while exploring a different aspect of Italian culture each month. All skill levels welcome. Live in-person and virtually on Zoom. Register to receive the information to join.

Tuesday, March 21 from 1-3 p.m. Bridge and Pinochle Club

Enjoy an afternoon of card games every week. Prior experience is required. Live in-person. No registration required.

Tuesday, March 21 from 2-3 p.m. Coloring for Mindfulness

Choose from beautiful designs and become absorbed in the joy of coloring. Live in-person. No registration required.

Tuesday, March 21 from 3-4 p.m. Google Drive

Learn about Google Drive and applications included like Docs, Sheets, and Slides. Live in-person. Registration with EPL card required.

(Continued from page 8) difficult in an era marked by the COVID-19 pandemic and unprecedented levels of government stimulus.

“We keep expecting that slowdown’s going to happen,” Noggle said at the end of the COGFA meet-

Wednesday, March 22 from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. American Mah Jongg: Open Play Gather every Wednesday for American Mah Jongg, a game of skill, strategy, calculation, and a certain amount of chance. Live in-person. No registration required.

Wednesday, March 22 from 7-8:30 p.m.

GreenMan Theatre presents: Mind Matters

Explore the human psyche with the GreenMan Theatre Storytellers. Hybrid event. Registration required.

Thursday, March 23 from 8-9:30 a.m. Elmhurst Business Connection: Core Value Proposition

Join Fox Valley SCORE mentors for a monthly roundtable discussion on new topics. Meet with business owners in the Elmhurst and surrounding communities to get advice, network, and share experience with peers. Live on Zoom. Register to receive the information to join.

ing. “But it just hasn’t happened yet.” Jerry Nowicki is the bureau Chief of Capitol News Illinois, a nonprofit, nonpartisan news service covering state government that is distributed to more than 400 newspapers statewide.

For more information about any of the above programs, call (630) 279-8696 or visit elmlib.org/events .

“So far, we’re just not really seeing that looking at our income tax data and our sales tax data and the jobs numbers,” COGFA Chief Economist Benjamin Varner said at the March 7 meeting.

“Now, tax receipts obviously probably lag economic activity a little, but so far, we think the slowdown is probably going to be a little later in the year.”

COGFA’s report noted other factors that could change the state’s revenue outlook moving forward. Among them are the possibility of another COVID-19 resurgence, a worsening of the war in Ukraine, and the impacts of inflation and further possible interest rate hikes by the Federal Reserve.

But the report also noted that its $575 million upward revision was “very cautious,” based on the fact that final income tax receipts could drastically alter the revenue landscape.

Final payments were “especially strong” in the previous fiscal year due to an influx of capital gains taxes amid a booming stock market. But that pace has slowed, leading to the cautious approach, COGFA said.

“The market conditions have been not as strong in tax year 2022, so we’re anticipating final income tax payments to drop during this last quarter of Fiscal Year 2023,” Noggle said. “But we still have had strong wages, we’ve had strong personal income...And so we think that they’re going to offset each other a little bit. The question is how much is there going to be a decline in the remainder of Fiscal Year 2023?”

All three fiscal forecasting entities have also agreed on another thing in recent months: forecasting has been

A first-rate coach, a first-class dad

Are you a Roman Catholic?

7 Hours of Confession

When was the last time you received Reconciliation? Was it recently? In the past year?

The priests of Eastern DuPage County will be available to celebrate the Sacrament of Forgiveness of Sin!

Saturday, March 25, from 8am until 3pm There will be select times when the Sacrament will be offered in Polish and Spanish.

All are invited to receive God’s grace Immaculate Conception Church 132 Arthur St. Elmhurst, IL 630-530-8515

Right: Coach Louis Pahopos celebrates the team’s accomplishment with his son Evan, as a Spartan basketball player with St. Demetrios. St. Demetrios Greek Orthodox Church is located in north Elmhurst.

BRENDA GARCIA PHOTO Elmhurst Independent

Community calendar

Pick of the Week: Sunday, March 19

York Hockey faces New Trier Green for Red Division state championship at United Center

The York Varsity Dukes hockey team beat Loyola Gold 2-0 in the state final four playoffs to advance to the Red Division state championship game for the first time in York Hockey history. The Dukes take on New Trier Green at the United Center at 3:30 p.m. Tickets can be purchased at Blackhawk.com/HSChampionships. Come out and cheer on the Dukes.

Saturday, March 25

Beginning at 7 p.m., Grammy-nominated Guitarra Azul will perform at Bethel United Church of Christ, 315 E. St. Charles Road. Enjoy world class musicianship and spirited dance. A reception will follow. Tickets are available on Eventbrite or by calling 630-2794040. Tickets are $20 and students are free. The church is fully-accessible and parking is free.

Sunday, March 26

• At 2 p.m., the Elmhurst History Museum presents the Chicago Immigrant Orchestra in concert in Hammerschmidt Memorial Chapel on the campus of Elmhurst University. Tickets are $15 each, $10 if younger than 18, and are available online at elmhursthistory.org (in the Programs section) or on Eventbrite at tinyurl. com/3cw6xsrs. Seats are not reserved. Doors open at 1:30 p.m. The concert is presented in connection with the EHM’s current exhibit, “In Pursuit of Happiness: Immigrants in Our Communities,” which continues through Sunday, May 14. Info: elmhursthistory.org or 630-833-1457.

• Also at 2 p.m., the First Congregational UCC of Elmhurst, 235 S. Kenilworth Ave., will host a free piano dedication recital “Beethoven to Broadway,” featuring musicians Jim Molina, piano; Daniel Ziesemer, violin; Dave Benziger, guitar; and Meg McGarry and Michelle Maiers, vocalists. Refreshments will be served following the recital. Free and open to the public.

Monday, March 27

From 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., families are invited to a drop-in program at the Elmhurst History Museum on a special day reserved to explore exhibits, participate in fun activities, and learn about the people and cultures featured in the EHM’s “In Pursuit of Happiness” exhibit. Go on a scavenger hunt in the gallery, create your own family tree, and play games from around the world. Participants can create a family coat of arms and learn how to record an oral history to preserve family memories. Free. No reservations required. Info: elmhursthistory.org or 630-833-1457.

Wednesday, March 29

From 11 a.m. – 3 p.m., the Elmhurst History Museum joins the Bensenville Park District and Public Library for “Passport to Community History.” This free event takes place in three Bensenville locations: Churchville One-Room Schoolhouse, 3N784 Church Rd.; Korthauer Log House, 740 W. Wood St.; and

the Bensenville Railroad Museum at Veterans Park, Main St. & Church Road. Pick up a Community History Passport and get it stamped at each location, where families will hear stories about early area immigrants and enjoy hands-on history experiences. Kids can bring their stamped passports to the Elmhurst History Museum through the end of April to receive a prize. Drop in, no reservations required. Info: elmhursthistory. org or 630-833-1457.

Friday, March 31

From 10 a.m. – 12 noon, the Elmhurst History Museum, 120 E. Park Ave., presents Immigration Storytime in the museum’s first floor gallery. Listen to family-friendly stories about immigration (on the hour and half hour, last story at 12 noon). Kids can also complete a coloring sheet and explore exhibits. Appropriate for elementary age children. Drop in, no reservations required. Info: elmhursthistory.org or 630-833-1457.

Saturday, April 1

Beginning at 3 p.m., Elmhurst University presents the 2nd annual TEDX program, featuring a diverse group of speaker discussing topics ranging from autism to public art to slang and more. General admission is $15 (with a two-ticket maximum due to limited seating). Tickets are available at elmhurst.edu/tedx. It will be held at the Mill Theatre on the campus of Elmhurst University. For more

information, email marketing@elmhurst.edu.

Wednesday, April 4

Consolidated Election. Don’t forget to vote.

Elmhurst History Museum’s exhibit

On display now through Sunday, May 14, In Pursuit of Happiness: Immigrants in Our Communities is the current exhibit at the Elmhurst History Museum which explores the journeys of area immigrants and their descendants who have carved out a sense of cultural identity and belonging in this region.

Info: elmhursthistory.org or 630-833-1457.

Elmhurst Art Museum

The Museum is currently performing renovations at this time and may be open for limited hours. For details and info, visit elmhurstartmuseum.org or call 630-834-0202.

Worship Services Directory

St. Timothy Evangelical Lutheran Church

547 N. Main St., Lombard, IL 60148 630-627-2435

Lent and Easter Services at 7 p.m.

Gather

Handicapped accessible and hearing loop enabled

Sunday Worship at 10:15 am Sunday School & Bible Study 9am

“The Crucial Hours”

Second Lenten Service March 9, 2022

Rev. David Ernest “Satan Has Asked to Sift All of You” Jerusalem Lutheran, Morton Grove Matthew 27:15-26

Lent and Easter Services

at 7 pm

Third Lenten Service March 16, 2022

“His Final Steps”

Fourth Lenten Service March 15, 2023

Rev. Jonathan Bergemann “Led to Some Greeks” Good Shepherd, Downers Grove John 12:20-33

Rev. Paul Spaude “What to Remember When Your are St. Matthews, Niles Seized with Remorse” Matthew 27:3-4

Fourth Lenten Service March 23, 2022

Fifth Lenten Service March 22, 2023

Rev. Jonathan Bergemann “I Will Keep the Passover” Good Shepherd, Downers Grove Matthew 26:18

Rev. Caleb Klatt “Led to His Father’s House” St. Matthews, Niles Matthew 27:3-4

Fifth Lenten Service March 30, 2022

Sixth Lenten Service March 29, 2023

Rev. Tom Nicholson “Led to His Enemies” Resurrection, Aurora Luke 20:9-19

Rev. Tom Nicholson “They Bound Him” Resurrection, Aurora John 18:12

Sixth Lenten Service April 6, 2022

✝ ✝ ✝ ✝ ✝ ✝ ✝ ✝ ✝ ✝

Rev. Phil Schupmann “The Semblance of Legality” Resurrection, Aurora Luke 22:66

Maundy Thursday Communion 7:00 pm, April 6

Good Friday Tenebrae 7:00 pm, April 7

Easter Sunrise 6:30 am, April 9

Maundy Thursday Communion 7 p.m., April 14

Easter Breakfast 8:00 am, April 9

Good Friday Tenebrae 7 p.m., April 15

Easter Festival 10:15 am, April 9

Easter Sunrise 6:30 a.m., April 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 434050

I BUY OLD TOYS

American Flyer, Lionel trains, Barbie and other dolls; G.I. Joe, Tonka, Matchbox, Hot Wheels cars, slot cars & more! Plus any other antiques and collectibles. Call: 630-248-3222

Gutters

Handyman

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.

Mount Carmel Prayer to the Blessed Virgin Mary

Oh, most beautiful flower of Mt. Carmel, fruitful vine, splendor of Heaven. Blessed Mother of the Son of God, Immaculate Virgin, assist me in my necessity, Oh Star of the Sea, help me and show me here you are my Mother. Oh Holy Mary, Mother of God queen of Heaven and Earth, I humbly beseech you from the bottom of my heart to succor me in my necessity (make request). There are none that can withstand your power. Oh Mary, conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to thee (say three times). Holy Mary, I place this prayer in your hands (say three times). Amen. Say this prayer for three consecutive days and then you must publish and it will be granted to you. I am confident my prayers will be answered. Thank You Mother of God!!!

JC 349866

Automobiles

2014 CHEVY EQUINOX, all wheel drive, 163,000 miles, new engine, new brakes, runs great, $14,500. 630-222-3140.

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 1-900669-9777. The toll-free tele phone number for the hearing impaired is 1-800-927-9275. EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY

https://homepaintingillino.wixsite.com/website PAINTERS. FULL-SERVICE.

PAINTERS. FULL-SERVICE. INSIDE. OUTSIDE. HOME. BUSINESS. SATISFACTION GUARANTEED. CALL GREG: (630)234-1471.

https://homepaintingillino.wixsite.com/website PAINTERS. FULL-SERVICE. PAINTERS. FULL-SERVICE. INSIDE. OUTSIDE. HOME. BUSINESS. SATISFACTION GUARANTEED. CALL GREG: (630)234-1471.

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.

Tree Service

‘Helping Hands’ named ECCI Business of the Year

At the Annual Awards Gala of the Elmhurst Chamber of Commerce & Industry (ECCI) held Friday, March 10, Gosia Baran, pictured here (center) just left of the man kneeling, holds the trophy she accepted as the A. J. “Toche” Terrones Business of the Year for her company, Helping Hands Cleaning Services. She booked four tables at

The City’s best and brightest

Above: Here are all the Civic Hall of Fame recipients who attended at the Elmhurst Chamber of Commerce & Industry’s Annual Awards Gala on Friday, March 10 including Ralph Pechanio (2015), William Shanklin (2019), Genie Urick (2018), this year’s inductee Dr. John DeVries (2022) and Scott and Charity Ahlgrim (2020).

Above right: The City of Elmhurst was well-represented on Friday, March 10 at the Annual Awards Gala of the Elmhurst Chamber of Commerce & Industry (ECCI). Mayor Scott Levin is seated front right, along with (pictured counter-clockwise) Alderman Emily Bastedo (6th Ward), Alderman Chris Jensen (3rd), Alderman Jennifer Veremis (1st), City Treasurer Dan Curran, City Business Development Manager Heather Bereckis, her husband Jeff, Alderman Jacob Hill (2nd), and Alderman Bob Dunn (2nd).

Right: John DeVries, DVM (5th from left, holding trophy), is surrounded by family after accepting his induction into the Civic Hall of Fame at the ECCI Annual Awards Gala on Friday, March 10. Last December, the Chamber dedicated a new Civic Hall of Fame public memorial at the Elmhurst Public Library, which was funded by the Centennial Celebration NFP, when the Chamber celebrated its 100th year in 2019. Pictured with Dr. DeVries are (from left): Michael Zamar (IC grad), oldest daughter Katie Zamar (York grad), Genie DeVries and Alex DeVries (marriedboth YHS grads), Dr. DeVries and his wife Linda (both York grads), and daughter Alyssa Fuller (York grad) holding her 3-week-old daughter Nora -- a future YHS grad.

the event and invited all of her employees. Offering a beautiful speech, Gosia thanked her employees, saying she wouldn’t be there without them. She thanked her family for their support as well.

BRENDA GARCIA PHOTOS Elmhurst Independent

Young IC Catholic Prep girls basketball team excelled this season

McDonough named to all-conference team; Knights won 15 games

By Mike Miazga CORRESPONDENT

While a 15-17 overall record doesn’t look the greatest aesthetically, IC Catholic Prep girls basketball coach Todd Fisher will take it in a heartbeat given the circumstances of the 2022-2023 season. “The injury bug kind of got to us in December and January,” Fisher noted. “With that injury bug, quite a few kids stepped up. Our record wasn’t obviously what we had hoped for. We played tough teams and didn’t go as far in the postseason as we would like (regional championship game). A 15-17 record isn’t as bad as it sounds. I can honestly say from Game 1 until the last game against Timothy Christian, every kid got better, and we got better as a team. These kids were hungry and dedicated. And you hope that the ton of experience these kids got this year will translate into next year and then we really can’t say we are going to be a super-young team.”

Junior Kelsey McDonough was a big bright spot for Fisher’s squad. She earned all-Metro Suburban Conference Blue Division honors and was the recipient of an all-area honorable mention award. McDonough averaged 9.5 points, four rebounds, two steals and two assists per game. ICCP went 0-8 in MSC Blue play this season. “With the injury bug, Kelsey stepped up and took on a

lot of responsibility toward the second half of the year, being the point guard, being our leading scorer and logging a lot of minutes every night,” Fisher said. “She gave 100 percent every game, night in and night out. She’s a student of the game. Her dedication to her game is awesome and outstanding. She’s one of those gym rats. When practice is over you have to kick some kids out of the gym because they stay so long. She’s one of them.”

Fisher was thrilled that others also elevated their game throughout the year “I thought Analisa Raffaelli stepped up and Graziella Narcisi also stepped up,” he said. “I can go down the list and name a bunch of kids that stepped up.” Raffaelli averaged nine points, 3.5 rebounds and 1.5 steals per game. The Knights played a good chunk of the year without Allie Geiger, who averaged 10.1 points and nine rebounds in 15 games but was limited by injury. Sophomore Maura Grogan started every game and averaged five points and five rebounds per game. The Knights graduate only one senior in Mia McMillen.

U12 baseball action

Anthony Bucolo fires a pitch during a recent U12 baseball game.

“This year, people were saying we were young,” he said. “We were young. Toward the end we started two sophomores and three juniors. They did everything a coach can ask a team to do. Night in and night out, they gave 100 percent and played

Community Bank

their hearts out and left it on the court. The stats will show in the games we shot well we won, and the games we didn’t shoot well we came up short. The effort always was there. They were locked in on and off the court, whether it was watching film or in the weight room. It’s a close-knit group and one of the most dedicated teams I have been part of. It was a fun year. It was an honor and a pleasure coaching these kids. I wouldn’t ask for another group of kids to go to battle with. It was a great group.” Fisher, himself, is excited about next season. “In some spots, we might be young again next year, but we will be one of those teams that

brings back a ton of experience and a lot of talent,” he said. “Next year, we can say we are one of these veteran teams. We have a ton coming back for next year. At the end of the year, these kids were already talking about summer stuff and next year. Again, this group is hungry for next season to begin. Hopefully, we’ll see that upside there.”

IC Catholic Prep will have some new digs to settle into next year in the form of joining the Girls Catholic Athletic Conference. The Knights will play in a division with Aurora Central Catholic, Chicago De La Salle, Chicago Resurrection, Rosary, Wheaton St. Francis and St. Lau-

rence from Burbank. The Knights will play each team in their division once (no crossover games with the other GCAC division) and then have a season-ending GCAC tournament. ICCP will travel to St. Laurence, Resurrection and Rosary next year for conference games.

Fisher noted the Knights will continue to play in their own Thanksgiving tournament, in the Lisle Christmas tournament and in the Reavis pre-holiday tournament while adding the GCAC end-of-season tournament to its slate. Non-conference games are already on the books with Timothy Christian and Elgin St. Edward.

Timothy Christian’s Steiner earns all-conference honors

Trojans’ boys basketball team looks to a promising future

By Mike Miazga CORRESPONDENT

Timothy Christian boys basketball coach Scott Plaisier liked what he saw from his team bell to bell this season.

“I thought we got better,” he said. “Having an 8-23 record is hard to say. You would like it the other way around at 23-8. It was a tough year for the Trojans record-wise. Some games early on, teams put running clocks on us and that was hard to deal with. I was really happy with the resiliency of the kids. They stayed positive all year and continued to work, even in the last week of practice leading up to regionals. We had a good game toward the end against Ridgewood and then were able to get a win in the regional quarterfinal (against Chicago Intrinsic) that got us to the regional semifinals against Lisle. I thought we played really well for more than three quarters against Lisle. We couldn’t quite finish it out. We had a positive belief that we kept all year. For as few wins as we had, the kids stayed positive and worked and were able to get better. They kept the focus on the small, incremental improvements in practice that we tried to translate into games. We were making positive plays more and more frequently as the season went on.”

you don’t have that opportunity all the time. Lisle made plays that we weren’t necessarily able to answer.”

Senior Kyle Steiner was named to the all-Metro Suburban Conference Blue Division team. Timothy finished 1-11 in MSC Blue play. “Kyle had a really good year,” Plaisier said. “He was a really good leader for us on and off the court, and we kind of put a lot on his shoulders. We asked him to handle the basketball as our primary ballhandler. We asked him to be our most productive shot-maker. He led us in scoring, rebounding steals and assists. He led us pretty much in every category we had. For a 5-11 guard to be able to do that is pretty impressive. With that though, come things that don’t necessarily work the way you want them to every night. Kyle gave this team and the coaches everything he had. He had a good season and is, for sure, deserving of being an all-conference player. Unfortunately for us, he is a senior.”

into those roles. We might be younger next year in terms of guys giving us good minutes. It might be juniors and sophomores. We are going to miss our seniors.”

Plaisier noted the cupboard will be far from bare next season. Current sophomore Ryan McKenzie started all season for the Trojans, plus veterans Alex Keizer and Thon Bill also return. Freshman Marc Gamble also logged varsity minutes toward the end of the season and started in the Lisle playoff game.

“We have a number of kids coming back and have a decent group of sophomores coming up who will be juniors,” he said. “In that very last game, we started a freshman (Gamble) who helped us out and a sophomore (McKenzie) and had some juniors who gave us good minutes that will be back. Ryan started all season and Marc Gamble will be a pretty good player. He was with the sophomores all season and we pulled him up for the last seven or eight games. He was doing a little double duty with the sophomores and us and then we worked him into some minutes with us. He started the last game and played fairly well.

Barr was the recipient of the 2019-2020 York Val Cothern junior female athlete of the year award. Barr went over the 1,000-career kill threshold last fall for the Dukes girls volleyball team and still has a season to add to that total.

Jensen scored seven goals in the York boys water polo team’s season-opening 14-12 non-conference win against Naperville North. Jensen is one of several returners to a York team that is coming off a 26-win season, a West Suburban Conference championship and a trip to the state finals tournament. The York JV won 11-5 over Naperville North.

Plaisier felt his team was going to give opponents a run for their money in the Class 2A state tournament. “I thought we would be a tough out in the tournament and maybe find a way to win a regional,” he said. “We were right there against a good Lisle team (lost 51-50). They made plays down the stretch. It’s hard when you are in that spot so infrequently in the season. It’s hard to make plays like that when

Steiner will head to Concordia University Wisconsin in Mequon, Wisconsin to continue his academic and basketball careers. Concordia-Wisconsin is an NCAA Division III school. Steiner is one of four Timothy seniors that will graduate. That list also includes Jake Firnsin, Kosta Skokos and Alex Martens.

“All four seniors were contributors for us and they all had games they started throughout the season and pretty much all of them played in most of our games,” Plaisier said. “They played some strong minutes and made positive plays. We will, for sure, miss those guys. Hopefully, we will have some underclassmen step

“Alex Keizer had a nice year for us and Thon Bill had a very promising season. He’s only been in the United States a little more than a year and a half. His growth in basketball has been exponential. He had a very good year and hopefully will have a good summer and improve. Alex and Thon will be big parts of the team we will have next year.”

Keizer scored 28 points on 10-for17 shooting in the Lisle regional semifinal game.

CHRIS FOX PHOTO Elmhurst Independent

York boys water polo team looks to keep momentum rolling

Dukes coming off 26-win season and berth in state finals tournament

By Mike Miazga CORRESPONDENT

The York boys water polo team is not lacking for offensive power this spring. Coach Brian Drumm’s squad returns three players with significant goal-scoring totals from a 2022 team that went 26-8, won the West Suburban Conference tournament and overall championship at both the JV and varsity levels for the first time in school history and advanced to the state quarterfinals (10-9 loss to Chicago Whitney Young).

Back for York are junior center Gavin Honken, who scored 105 goals last season, senior left-handed utility player Nick Kamenica, who scored 70 goals and 45 earned ejections, and senior attacker Charlie McKenna, who had 60 goals a

year ago. Also back is sophomore Tim Jensen. Kamenica was a first-team all-state, all-sectional and all-WSC selection last year, while Honken was a second-team allsectional pick.

Key newcomers to the team include junior goalie Aiden Reedy and junior utility player Tommy Schroeder.

“We have most of our offensive firepower back from last season, bringing back players who combined for more than 200 goals in 2022,” Drumm noted. “Last year, we tried new players in unfamiliar roles, but this year we have a lot of roles already set, so we’ll ask players to expand their skill sets to within those roles to make our offense more dynamic. “We have three of our top four scorers back in Gavin, Nick and Charlie. Players like Tim Jensen,

Martin Polomsky and Collin Rice have also really worked on their offense this past summer and fall, so we’re expecting big jumps from them as well.”

York did lose standout goalie Jack Schroeder to graduation, but Drumm said help has arrived in the form of Reedy.

“When you lose an elite goalie like Jack Schroeder, it’s always hard,” he said, “but Aiden Reedy is an experienced junior who is almost as big as Jack and is as skilled as any other top goalie in Illinois. We are in good hands with Aiden, so we’ll be able to run all the same defenses that we became used to running the past three seasons with Jack.”

Drumm said Jensen was a player who impressed in York’s season-opening win against Naperville North. “Watch out for

Tim,” Drumm cautioned. “He scored seven of our 14 goals in our opener against an always tough Naperville North team. Their plan was to double both Gavin and Nick, and Tim was able to take great advantage of this.”

Drumm said the West Suburban Conference will again have Lyons Township heavily factored into the equation. “We have played Lyons in the conference championship for the past eight years and we were finally able to beat them last season,” he said. “Although Oak ParkRiver Forest is always solid, Lyons should be our top competition once again.”

York played Hinsdale Central at home earlier this week in a WSC contest. The Dukes return to action Tuesday, March 21 at home against Oak Park-River Forest.

York girls badminton team returns plenty of talent

By Mike Miazga CORRESPONDENT

The York girls badminton team has no intention of taking its foot off the gas. The Dukes are fresh off a 2022 season where they shared the West Suburban Conference title with Hinsdale Central, won a sectional team title, took 14th in state and had a doubles team earn a state medal with a third-place finish. And the even better news is that doubles team, senior Sasha Neidigh and junior Lindsey White are both back, as are fellow 2022 state

doubles qualifiers Ella Glosner and Cate Fennell, both juniors this season.

Neidigh and White went 5-1 in the state tournament and accounted for 5.5 of York’s seven team points at state. Neidigh and White became the seventh and eighth York girls badminton players to ever earn a state tournament medal. Glosner and Fennell went 1-2 at state as York once again qualified the maximum six players for the state tournament last year. Also back from last year’s team is senior Anna Stangarone. Key new-

comers to the group include juniors Diya Parikh, Delaney Butterly, Courtney Yang, Clare Hewitt and Caroline Fischer, along with sophomore Mia Koenigsberger and freshman Emily White.

“We are looking forward to the season,” York coach Gena Fite said. “The team has started the season strong and willing to work hard—some have been preparing all year. We anticipate another year of impressive results.” Fite said its still somewhat early to tell on lineup positions, though Nei-

digh and Lindsey White are back at the No. 1 doubles position. “Their goal is to better their third-place finish from the state tournament,” she said. Glosner and Fennell will start off the season at No. 2 doubles, Fite said. Fite has also been impressed with freshman Emily White. “Emily has shown she can strongly compete with the top varsity players,” she said. “The rest of the varsity has solid fundamentals, giving us good depth and increasing our chances for a winning season.”

Athlete of the Month Athlete of the Month

In terms of the West Suburban Conference, Fite said to keep an eye on Hinsdale Central and Downers Grove North. “Hinsdale Central will be a top contender in our conference,” she said. “Downers Grove North finishes their season strong and can’t be counted out. They will surprise even the strongest teams.”

York opened its season earlier this week against Downers Grove South. “Downers Grove South is loaded with seniors this year, so they will push us to play well,” Fite said.

Dominik Ciegotura

Last month, IC Catholic Prep Boys Basketball was led by senior Dominik Ciegotura who in that time averaged an impressive 15.3 points per game, 9 rebounds per game and 1.3 steals per game. In addition, he achieved a 51% Field Goal Percentage. Dominik helped lead the team to 4 wins in the month and a #1 seed in regional pairings. The team finished 23-9 overall, and Dominik was named MSC All Conference.

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Dr. Lawrence B. Carroll Elmhurst University