EI030223

VOL. 21• NO. 11

York’s PIR team earns first state championship in school’s history

After back-to-back regional and sectional championships, the York Community High School Speech & Drama’s Performance in the Round (PIR) piece, The Boy, the Mole, the Fox, and the Horse earned a state championship at the Illinois High School Association Speech State Final on Saturday, Feb. 18 for the first time in the school’s history. The team of 12 students brought their 15-minute adaptation of Charlie Mackesy’s 2019 Barnes & Noble Book of the Year to compete against teams from across the state.

“The Boy, the Mole, the Fox, and the Horse” tells the story of a young boy, lost in the wild and trying to find his way home. On this journey, he finds a family with the animals he meets along the way. The York PIR team features sophomore Alexa Klein, junior Charlie Matias, junior Elle Kramer, freshman Eloise Hill, junior Gio Santoro, junior Jack Davies, senior Luke Hanley, junior

Team shines at IHSA Speech State Finals held Feb. 18

Noley Hanna, senior Oliver Roy, junior Sam Yungmann, and junior Will Fischer, with freshman Tara Freund as stage manager.

“We have absolutely loved this book for years, and this was the perfect opportunity to share its messages with a broader audience,” said director Matt Bourke. “In a world that can feel divided, we love what a journey like this can teach us about love, kindness, and our shared humanity. It is the perfect story for such imperfect times.”

For each show the directing team works on, whether a full-scale musical like “Bandstand” this spring or a competitive piece like PIR, they ground their work in their year’s theme and program’s message: “Be the good.” Though this might be in the context of a competition, the team believes storytelling and compassion must be at the forefront of their work.

“We believe deeply in the power

Elmhurst’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade steps off Saturday

On Saturday, March 4, the Elmhurst St. Patrick’s Day Parade will step off at 12 noon, marching from Wilson St. and Spring Rd. heading north, ending at the railroad tracks one block south of St. Charles Rd., just north of the former Silverado Grill.

This year’s Grand Marshal is Jack Island, former owner of Silverado Grill, which was a long-time landing spot for parade-goers ever since the parade’s inception.

The St. Patrick’s Day parade is expected to attract a large crowd here in the western suburb of Elmhurst. Ample parking, security and planning

will make for comfortable viewing conditions for all family members.

The parade features floats, marching units and animated characters along with local organizations, businesses and clubs along a mile stretch. Don’t miss your chance to see Irish dancers, the Shannon Rovers, the Chicago Highlanders, Medinah clowns and the York High School marching band.

The parade is only the beginning to this festive day – for the food, music and fun is sure to continue as Spring Road merchants, restaurateurs and friends welcome visitors for this special community celebration.

of storytelling,” director Rebecca Marianetti said. “When we choose our material, we insist that it be rooted in themes and messages our students and community need to hear and navigate. Mackesy’s tale does so simply and powerfully.”

Immediately, students took to these messages and worked tirelessly to ensure they were telling this story earnestly and authentically. The piece itself teaches about finding a

family—it would appear the cast took the same message to heart.

“This experience has taught me that performing is a lot more than putting on a show: it’s about the connections you make with people, and how you make others feel as you perform,” freshman Eloise Hill. “This group of upperclassmen showed me how kind people can truly be. They made me feel loved every rehearsal.”

And this love extended beyond

the immediate cast. Consistently after performances, actors were approached by audience members sharing how they felt watching their piece, sometimes with eyes still watering. York’s team attributes much of their success to choosing a show that resonated so deeply with so many.

“After our first round, a student

‘Skates’ comes to Lions Pizza Day

Yes, it’s Skates, the official mascot of the Chicago Blackhawks, who came to the Elmhurst Lions Club Pizza Day on Saturday, Feb. 25 at Sandburg. Here, he says hello to residents of the Ray Graham Group Home in Villa Park, who were happy to enjoy pizza and receive a few gifts from Skates. The Ray Graham residents were guests of Dr. John “Doc. Jev” Jevitz. More photos inside.

• PIR team

(Continued from front page)

from a different school came up to some of us to share what our piece meant to him,” said Oliver Roy, a senior. “He told us he had been struggling with his mental health, that this was exactly what he needed to hear that day. We later saw him in our final round, sitting in the front row, and it made an already special experience even more so.”

One major tenet of PIR is the reliance on an ensemble to tell a story, not just individual performers. Contest rules place limitations on set pieces, props, lighting, and sound, so much of the work must be done by the actors themselves.

“It’s almost like building a pyramid,” junior Sam Yungmann said.

“We all come together to form a base

that supports this beautiful message. In this ensemble, you feel an overwhelming sense of affirmation, knowing that we cannot succeed without each other.”

The Illinois High School Association (IHSA) has run the Performance in the Round competition in conjunction with the Individual Events/ Speech State Final since 1997. York

had previously broken into the final round twice before, in 2013 and 2020. This is the first sectional and state championship for the team, though the team is much more proud of what they were able to do with their platform.

“That was the goal of the piece: to spread kindness and love,” Roy said. “And I can confidently say we achieved it.”

SUBMITTED PHOTO Elmhurst Independent

Gathered around their official plaque is the cast of York High School’s ‘Performance In The Round’ (PIR) team, whIch earned the state championship at IHSA Speech State Finals. The York PIR team includes (listed alphabetically, not as pictured): Jack Davies, Will Fischer, Tara Freund (stage manager), Luke Hanley, Noley Hanna, Eloise Hill, Alexa Klein, Elle Kramer, Charlie Matias, Oliver Roy, Gio Santoro and Sam Yungmann.

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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.

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Gathered around their giant bass drum known as “Mary,” the Elmhurst

Day Parade this Saturday, March 4. Don’t miss it!

Armpit Orchestra returns to parade for 11th year

For the 11th time in history, the men of the World-Famous Elmhurst Armpit Orchestra will entertain those attending the Elmhurst St. Patrick’s Day Parade. This year’s parade is scheduled to step off at noon on March 4th on Spring rd. The EAO plays familiar tunes, including “When the Saints Go Marching In,” on kazoos, bucket drums, vuvuzelas, cowbells, handzoo, stumpf fiddle and other unconventional instruments.

Last year the EAO had the distinction of being named the Grand Marshal of the 25th Annual Elmhurst St. Patrick’s Day Parade. At the parade, the EAO crowned Jennifer Reichert their 2022 Queen. They also recognized Kevin Ferguson, with the Darrell Whistler EAO Spirit Award, in honor of their late colleague. EAO honored the late Robert Robertson Jr. with the 2022 Colleen Cecile Sutherland Distin-

guished Service Award.

Throughout its 12 years of existence, the EAO has raised nearly $20,000 over the years for various charities, including Access Sports, Cystic Fibrosis, Down Syndrome, the Elmhurst Hospital Cancer Center, and college scholarships for York High School music students.

Unlike many other entertaining parade acts, some of which also raise

St. Patrick’s Day Parade entries

Below is the list entries in the Elmhurst St. Patrick’s Day Parade, which takes place Saturday, March 4. Please note: the list is alphabetical, not in order of appearance in the parade.

@The Schiller Team

Advanced Orthodontic Specialists

Antioch Brass Quintet

Aurora Area Shrine Club

Baird Warner Real Estate

Beth Hosler for D205 School Board

Bob Dunn for Elmhurst Park

Board

CHI-ILL GROTTO

Chicago Dogs Baseball

Chicago Highlanders Pipes and Drums

Chicago-Style Rollerderby

Chriscross Foundation

Cindy Cronin Cahill for DuPage

Citizens for Jake Meding

Community Bank of Elmhurst

Count on Courtenae

D & P Construction

DuPage County Sheriff

DuPage Shrine Club

Cruzin’ Coolers

Elmhurst American Legion Post

187

Elmhurst Armpit Orchestra

Elmhurst Art Museum

Elmhurst Baseball and Softball

League

Elmhurst Bears Youth Football Club

Elmhurst Children’s Theatre

Elmhurst City Council

Elmhurst Dentistry for Kids

Elmhurst Eagles Football and Cheer

Elmhurst Fire Chief Bill Anaszewicz

Elmhurst Fire Department

Elmhurst History Museum/Elmhurst Heritage Foundation

Elmhurst Independent

Elmhurst Memorial Hospital

Elmhurst Park District

Elmhurst Police Chief Mike McLean

Elmhurst Police Department

Elmhurst Preparatory School of Early Learning

Elmhurst Tail Gate

Elmhurst University

Elmhurst Vipers Softball Alumni

Elmhurst YMCA

Elmhurst Youth Baseball/Sox

Southpaw

Epiphany Lutheran Church Resale

Explore Elmhurst Express Trolley

Fitness Formula Clubs- Elmhurst

Floor Coverings International

Fox Valley Shrine Club

Friends of Deb Conroy

Friends of Mark Mulliner

Goldfish Swim School

Grace Bible Church

Kingdom Kids

Grand Marshal Jack Island

Great American Exteriors

Grind Time Enterprise

Helping Hands Cleaning Service

Hinsdale Humane Society

Honorable Mayor Scott Levin

IC Catholic Prep

Immaculate Conception Grade School

Jdog Junk Removal and Carpet

Cleaning

John Noldan - Guaranteed Rate

Karen Sienko for 2nd Ward Alderman

Keller Williams Premiere Properties-Elmhurst

Kelly Asseff For D205 School

Board

Kelly Henry for D205

Kelly Stetler/Compass

Kilwins Elmhurst

Knights of Columbus Elmhurst

L. W. Reedy Real Estate

Live Hydration Spa

Mary - The World’s Largest Drum

Medinah Car Club

Medinah Clown Unit

Medinah Marauders Shrine Club

Medinah Motor Corp

Medinah Shriners Aviators

Medinah Shriners Fire Unit

Medinah Shriners Police Unit

Medinah Shriners Segway Unit

Mosquito Joe of Dupage County

Nudera for District 205 School

Board

O’Connor Garage Door

O’Hare Towing Service

Onorach Mulhern Geraghty

School of Irish Dance

Patriot 2.0 Sports & Fitness

Pazzi Di Pizza

funds for charity, the Elmhurst Armpit Orchestra does not charge an appearance fee for the Elmhurst St. Patrick’s Day Parade.

The 26th Annual Elmhurst St. Patrick’s Day Parade steps off at noon on Saturday, March 4, 2023, from Spring Road and Wilson Avenue in Elmhurst. For information about the parade, please visit elmhurststpatsparade.com or call 630-834-0300.

Pilot Pete’s Coffee

Re-elect Jennifer Veremis, Ward 1

Alderman

Red Effect Infrared Fitness

River Forest Country Club Roesch

Family Auto Group

SBC Waste Solutions

School of Rock Elmhurst

Sean Casten for Congress

Shannon Rovers Irish Pipe Band

Sky Zone Elmhurst

SouthWest Side Shrine Club MiniT’s

State Representative Jenn Ladisch

Douglass

Stretchlab Elmhurst

Superior Ambulance Service

Team Elmhurst Soccer Club

Team Guido

The Band of Brothers Pipes and Drums

The Chiefs Hockey club

The Concrete Doctors

The UPS Store - City Centre

Thrive Pet Care

Tim Sheehan for Elmhurst Park Board

Visitation School

Wandering Shamrocks Harmonica Band

West Suburban Shrine Club –

“Roaring ‘57’s”

York High School Marching Band

York Township Seniors/John Valle Supervisor

Be safe and enjoy the parade!

SUBMITTED PHOTO Elmhurst Independent

Armpit Orchestra (EAO) gets set to step off with the St. Patrick’s

ECPA presents ‘An Intimate

Evening with Dan Konopka’

Grammy-winning York grad to share stories of success

Building on the success of itsnewest fundraising series, the Elmhurst Centre for Performing Arts (ECPA) continues to bring in nationally-recognized talent with their next event, “An Intimate Evening with Dan Konopka.”

It will be held on Thursday, March 9 at Irion Hall on the campus of Elmhurst University. Doors open at 7 p.m.

Born and raised in Elmhurst and a York High School graduate, Dan went on to join the band “OK Go.”

The band’s video, “Here It Goes Again,” ushered in the YouTube era and has racked up more than 59 million views to date. The groundbreaking “Treadmill Video” earned the band a Grammy Award for Best Music Video in 2007.

Dan will share his story including how the band “finds” their elaborate ideas, fun facts, and behind the scenes tidbits. In conjunction with York Fine Arts Week, York music teacher Chris Gemkow will moderate the Q&A portion of the evening.

To conclude the event, Dan will

School Board approves resolution to abate a portion of 2022 tax levy

By Chris Fox FOR THE ELMHURST INDEPENDENT

DON’T TOP IT OFF

Even if contact lens wearers are scrupulous about cleaning their lenses properly, they may be vulnerable to bacterial infections. Every year, about 1 out of 20 contact lens wearers develops a contact related eye infection, some potentially sight threatening. The reason for this is that nearly one-quarter of contact lens users never replace their lens cases, in which bacteria can breed in the nooks and crannies and infect eyes. Also, many wearers continue to just “top off” the solution when storing them. The American Optometric Association reports, in fact, that most serious contact-related eye infections can be traced back to these two scenarios. Cases should be rinsed out daily with hot water and air dried. Cases should also be replaced monthly, or scrubbed thoroughly (lids, too) with a toothbrush and baking soda. If your case looks dirty, it’s an infection waiting to happen. By all means, do not “top off” the solution for the night’s disinfection. A little bit of care can prevent a whole lot of problems. At Skowron Eyecare, Our Mission is your Vision, for over 30 years.

play “Here It Goes Again” live with York students, senior Laney Toffler and juniors Will Blanchette and CJ Cannon.

“An Intimate Evening with Dan Konopka” is held in partnership with the York Fine Arts program and Elmhurst University. For tickets and more information, visit www.ECPA-Elmhurst.org

The Elmhurst Centre for Performing Arts is a non-profit 501(c)3 organization dedicated to building a state-of-the-art venue for live music, theatre, dance, comedy, and events to the western suburbs.

SHOP Local FOR SPRING

Under

At its regular meeting on Tuesday, Feb. 21, District 205 School Board members voted unanimously to approve a resolution abating a portion of the tax levied for the year 2022. The board approved a plan that included the option to abate about $969,000 in taxes. In its previous meeting, the board discussed three options. One of those options included no abatement. The second option included the abatement of about $537,000. The third option included the abatement of about $969,000. According to information provided by the district, the abatement of about $969,000 will mean that the owner of a district home with a market value of $500,000 will save $51 on District 205 portion of their property taxes for the year 2022.

Board members Jim Collins and Courtenae Trautmann both stated that in their previous meeting, they asked for a fourth option related to

abatement for 2022 that provided more than $969,000 in abatement. They asked why the district did not provide such an option. The board faced an imminent deadline of Feb. 28, 2023, of having to choose to offer abatement for 2022.

Christopher Whelton, the district’s assistant superintendent for finance and operations, gave a presentation before the board voted on the abatement options. Whelton referred to the current environment of high inflation and labor shortages. He stated that the district is facing significant increases in health insurance claims. He also said the district is looking at double-digit increases in its nursing and busing contracts. Whelton further noted that the district will deplete its reserves by $21 million by using $7 million this year, as well as in each of the next two years. Those funds will largely be used to pay for increases in the scopes of district construction and renovation projects.

Board member Athena Arvanitis also referred to the upcoming depletion in reserves, stating that of the district’s fund balance of about $40 million, about $20 million has been earmarked for future spending.

Collins addressed some of Whelton’s information about budget increases. Collins said that health insurance claims represent about 8 percent of the district’s budget, while busing represents around 3 percent of the budget and nursing represents about 1 percent. He said that while increases in those items might look scary, but in context, they are relatively minor. Collins also said that the board voted in December to raise property taxes by the maximum amount. He also noted that the district accumulated money every year, even in years with low inflation. He said he would vote to approve the resolution including the abatement of about $969,000, but he regretted there wasn’t an option to offer a larger amount of abatement for taxpayers.

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.

Domestic battery, disorderly conduct, domestic incident, disturbance

Feb. 21

Dequan M. Boone, 29, of Columbia, S.C., was charged with disorderly conduct, unlawful use of a weapon and aggravated assault at a business in the 600 block of Larch at 10 a.m. Police said officers responded to the above location for the report of a subject with a machete.

Ivory Watson, 21, of Glendale Heights, was issued citations for reckless driving, damage to a structure by improper use, improper lane usage, and failure to reduce speed to avoid an accident in the 200 block of E. St. Charles at 1:33 a.m.

Feb. 20

Olivier Alexandre, 24, of Evanston, was charged with disorderly conduct, assault and resisting a police officer near York and Vallette at 4:13 p.m. Police said officers observed Alexandre discharge an air horn into a victim’s face.

Feb. 18

A victim in the 200 block of E. Grantley told police at4:02 a.m. that a verbal argument turned physical when the suspect punched him. The suspect left the scene prior to officers’ arrival. The victim was transported by medics to Edward-Elmhurst hospital for treatment. Charges are pending for two counts of domestic battery.

Feb. 17

A complainant near Cedar and Yorkfield reported at 10:35 a.m. the suspect struck her while she was walking near the above location. The reporting officer spoke with the suspect who related she confronted the complainant but denied striking her. Due to conflicting statements, no complaints were signed and all parties agreed to have no further contact.

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

Feb. 22

Pei Zhao, 41, of Chicago, was charged with DUI, disobeying a traffic control signal and improper lane usage subsequent to a traffic stop near Route 83 and Roosevelt at 11:59 p.m.

Feb. 21

Lance Alexander, 60, of Maywood, was issued a citation for possession of open alcohol in public in the 100 block of E. First at 1:34 p.m.

Christopher Diego, 22, of Northlake, was charged with possession of open alcohol, driving while license suspended, following too closely, failure to signal when required and no insurance near Glade and Third at 10:57 p.m.

Feb. 19

Jermaine J. Anderson, 42, of Schaumburg, was charged with DUI-drugs and improper

CALL 800-222-TIPS

lane usage subsequent to a traffic stop near Spring and St. Charles at 12:16 a.m.

Feb. 18

Aaron Keith Hutchison, 42, of Zaleski, Ohio, was charged with possession of open alcohol in a public place and obstructing a police officer in the 400 block of N. York at 11:02 a.m.

Fleeing, eluding

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

Identity theft, fraud, forgery

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

Obstruction

Feb. 22

Fred McClinton Jr., 27, of Chicago, was charged with obstructing and served a no-trespass notice in the 300 block of E. Lake at 8:41 p.m. A complainant reported he observed McClinton allegedly following him from the above location. Officers made contact with McClinton, who allegedly fled from his vehicle on foot.

Possession of cannabis in a vehicle

According to information provided last week by the Elmhurst Police Department, police reported two incidents of possession of cannabis by either the driver of a vehicle or a passenger: Lorant Kovacs, 46, of Chicago, in the 200 block of N. York at 1:53 a.m. Feb. 18; and Antonio Miranda, 25, of Chicago, near County Line and Grand at 7:58 p.m. Feb. 18.

Possession of a controlled substance

Feb. 17

Laura E. Ortiz, 40, of West Chicago, was charged with possession of a controlled substance, possession of drug paraphernalia, operating a vehicle when registration is suspended for non-insurance, and no insurance, while James R. March, 42, of West Chicago, was charged with possession of a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia subsequent to a traffic stop near Route 83 and I-290 at 2 a.m.

Suspicious incident

Jan. 31

Police said York High School received several anonymous tips via Instagram. Upon further investigation, the tips regarding a

possible threat were discovered to be in reference to an out-of-school game.

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

Feb. 22

A victim in the 400 block of E. Atwater reported at 2:15 p.m. that an unknown suspect entered his residence and removed a pellet gun and jewelry. A reporting officer reviewed a neighbor’s doorbell camera footage which showed an unknown suspect walking to the rear of the victim’s residence. Moments later, the suspect climbed a fence and entered the passenger side of a black Chevrolet SUV. This case is pending investigation.

Feb. 17-Feb. 21

An employee at a school in the 800 block of N. Wilson reported that an unknown sus -

pect(s) gained access to a classroom through an unlocked window sometime between Feb. 17 and Feb. 21. There was nothing damaged or taken from the classroom.

Theft of catalytic converters

According to information provided last week by the Elmhurst Police Department, police reported two incidents of catalytic converters being removed and stolen from a vehicle: in the 700 block of N. York sometime between Jan. 31 and Feb. 13; and at a car dealership in the 400 block of W. Lake sometime between Jan. 30 and Feb. 14.

Warrant arrest

Feb. 20

Police said that subsequent to a suspicious vehicle call in the 300 block of W. Fremont at 7:03 p.m., Piotr Gajdpsz, 36, of Villa Park, was found to have two warrants out of DuPage County.

Lombard man accused of aggravated DUI

Suspect allegedly drove car into a Villa Park home

According to DuPage County State’s Attorney Robert B. Berlin and Villa Park Chief of Police Michael Rivas, a Lombard man has been charged with aggravated DUI for allegedly driving his car into a Villa Park home on Sunday, Feb. 19.

Thomas Whitlock, 38, appeared at a bond hearing in front of Judge Ann Celine O’Hallaren Walsh who set bail at $250,000 with 10 percent to apply. In all, Whitlock is charged with one count of aggravated DUI/third violation-BAC.16 or more (Class 2 felony), one count of aggravated DUI/license suspended or revoked (Class 4 felony), three counts of aggravated fleeing and eluding a police officer (Class 4 felony) and 14 counts of misdemeanor and petty driving offenses.

On Sunday, Feb. 19 at approximately 8:39 p.m., a Villa Park police officer was dispatched to the Jewel grocery store for a call of a Chevrolet Silverado that was allegedly speeding. It is alleged that the officer attempted to stop the truck, later determined to be driven by Whitlock, but the truck fled.

It is alleged that the officer activated his emergency lights and pursued Whitlock, who at times reached speeds of 69 mph in a 25-

mph zone. It is further alleged that the pursuit continued to Maple Street in Lombard where Whitlock lost control of the truck and crashed into a residence on the 900 block of E. Maple St.

It is alleged that after the crash, Whitlock attempted to flee on foot but was taken into custody at this time. When searching the vehicle, authorities found an open 750 ml bottle of Tito’s vodka on the front passenger seat. Whitlock was transported to a local hospital for medical attention. It is alleged that Whitlock’s blood alcohol content (BAC) was .232.

“It is alleged that following an evening of drinking, Thomas Whitlock made the unwise decision to not only get behind the wheel of a truck, but to also lead police on a high-speed chase through a residential neighborhood, ultimately crashing his truck into a residence,” Berlin said. “This type of dangerous behavior that puts public safety at risk will not be tolerated in DuPage County … Thankfully, no one in the home or on the streets, was injured or worse.”

Whitlock’s next court appearance is scheduled March 22, for arraignment in front of Judge O’Hallaren Walsh.

County Clerk announces early voting at Fairgrounds

DuPage County voters can cast their paper ballots in the 2023 Consolidated Election now that the county’s early voting location are open at the DuPage County Fairgrounds (Building 5), 2015 Manchester Road in Wheaton, just off County Farm Road, east of the county’s Government Administration buildings.

DuPage County now features 100 percent paper ballots on new voting equipment for both Early Voting and Election Day. Beginning on Monday, March 20, early voting will expand to 20 locations throughout DuPage County.

Hours for early voting at the Fairgrounds are:

• Weekdays: 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. (now through March 17)

• Saturdays: 9 a.m.-noon (now through March 18)

• Weekdays: 8:30 a.m.-7 p.m. (March 20-April 3)

• Weekends: 9 a.m.-5 p.m. (March 25-April 2)

“Mayors, city councils, and school boards are among the important local offices on the ballot in the consolidated election,” Kaczmarek said. “I encourage voters to take advantage of the opportunity to have a say in how their own communities are governed.” Voters can find a complete guide to all Early Voting locations and dates, as well as information about voting by mail, on the Clerk’s Election website.

“All the information you will need on the ways to vote in the Consolidated Election can be found at www.dupagecounty.gov/election,” Kaczmarek said. “We also encourage everyone to follow us on Twitter (Twitter.com/ DuPageCoClerk), Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/dupagecountyclerk/), and Facebook (Facebook.com/DuPage-County-Clerk) to stay up to date on the latest election news.”

Obituaries

Carol Jean (Groeschel) Kahn

Carol Jean Kahn (Groeschel), of Elmhurst, passed away on Sunday, Feb. 26, after a courageous battle with cancer, with her loving family by her side.

Carol was raised in Crivitz, Wisc. She was an avid hunter and fisher at her family’s resort – Paust Woods Lake Resort which is now a State Park. Carol was adventurous in life. She went sky diving at age 50 with her sons-in-law. In her 70’s, she belonged to the Sly Fox Ski Club and continued to ski in Alta, Utah, until she was 80. Above all, Carol was a very caring and loving person. She loved fiercely. Carol would take in or assist refugees or individuals mentoring them to grow in life. She was very active in her church, the Church of Christ in Itasca. Carol helped anyone in need and had several Fictive Kin she loved. She has been there for everyone and will be truly missed.

Carol was married to her loving husband Preston E. Kahn for the last 26 years. They loved to travel and to be involved in church activities.

Mother of Crystal J. Kim of Elgin, Anita L. (Brian) Miller of Racine, Wisc., Fawn A. (Peter) Rogers of Appleton, Wisc.; stepmother of Chad (Lisa) Kahn and Trisha Martin; grandmother of Danielle (Jeff) Svast, Logan Schrage, Misha (Chris) Dolan, Nicholas Rogers, Ryan Rogers, Ellen Miller; great grandmother of Maya Schrage and Cora Svast; sister of Cleo L. Shaw, Byron “Dewey” (Christa) Paust, and Dale (Judy) Paust, the late George C. Paust, and the late Gary E. Paust; aunt to Pam Adams, Richard Shaw, Cheryl Kerlin, Renė Heusinger, Karen Case, Peggy Vogel, Jennifer Raback, the late Bradley Paust, Amanda Paust, and Matthew Paust.

She will also be missed by her fictive kin, Greg Myse of Venice, Fla., Maya Coumbe-Gitter of Brookfield, Wisc., Skyler Lawson of Washington, D.C., and David Zierk of Denver, Colo., for whom she was a sponsor. Carol is also preceded in death by her parents Earle Benjamin Paust and Evelyn Isabell Paust (Makovsky).

A visitation will be held on Friday, March 3, from 2-5 p.m. at Elmhurst Community Funeral Home – The Ahlgrim Chapel, 567 South Spring Road. The funeral service will begin promptly at 4 p.m. Interment will be at Forest Home Cemetery, Athelstane, Wisc., at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Church of Christ, 1150 West Bloomingdale Road, Itasca, IL 60143; or the Cancer Research Foundation, 6200 N. Hiawatha Avenue, Suite 640, Chicago, IL 60646 or cancerreasearchfdn.org/donate/

Arrangements in care of Elmhurst Community Funeral Home – THE AHLGRIM CHAPEL. For more information, www.ElmhurstFH.com or (630) 834-3515.

Gerald “Jerry” Krajewski, 73 Gerald “Jerry” Krajewski of Elmhurst, passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by family, on Feb. 21, 2023, after a brief but courageous

battle with pancreatic cancer. He was 73.

Jerry is survived and missed by his wife, Helen; his children, Caroline, Katherine (Ben) Zulauf, and Rosemary. Forever cherished by his grandchildren, John and Evelyn. Remembered fondly by his brother, Jeffrey (Gail) Kraig, and his nieces, nephews and their families.

Jerry was predeceased by his father, Theodore Krajewski; his mother, Elaine Krajewski; his father-inlaw, John Gellinger; his mother-inlaw, Rosemary Gellinger; his brother-in-law, John Gellinger; his aunt Geraldine Krupa; his uncle, Joseph Krage; and his niece, Maureen DeGeorge.

He was born in Chicago in 1949. Two years later, brother Jeffrey joined the family and he and Jerry became lifelong friends.

Graduating from Prosser Career Academy in Chicago in 1967, Jerry exceled in his studies and extra-curriculars, becoming an All-City defensive lineman for the Prosser Falcons football team, thus beginning a lifelong love of the sport.

After graduating from Northeastern University with a bachelor’s degree in Special Education in 1971, he began a 38-year career as an educator and administrator, spending the majority of that time as a physical education teacher for children with special needs and disabilities. He accompanied his students to the Special Olympics each year, helping them realize their athletic potential, build self-confidence, and have a lot of fun along the way. He later earned two additional master’s degrees in education and administration. He adored his work and exhibited incredible love and patience with his students.

In 1972, he met the love of his life, Helen, at their summer job at the M&M Mars candy factory on Oak Park Avenue in Chicago. They married in 1974 and shared nearly 49 years of wedded bliss. Together they had three children, Caroline, Katherine, and Rosemary; son-in-law Ben; and later welcomed two grandchildren, John and Evelyn. Their lives were built on a foundation of togetherness, filled with vacations, parties, music, food, laughter and more love than one could ever imagine.

Jerry remained a sports enthusiast his entire life. As a devoted Chicago Bears fan and 52-year season ticket holder, he witnessed some of the greatest games in Bears history, including with along with his brother, Jeff, watching the famous 1985 Bears win the Super Bowl in New Orleans. Many of our fondest memories with family and friends were spent together at Soldier Field. When he wasn’t cheering on the Bears, Blackhawks, Cubs or Illini, he was an enthusiastic supporter and genuine admirer of prestigious sporting events like The Masters, The World Cup, The Olympics and The Kentucky Derby. And, his NCAA March Madness pool was legendary.

So many words come to mind when describing Jerry – kind, loving, generous, funny, faith-filled, responsible and loyal. He famously drank bad whiskey and was a superb joke-teller. Anyone who spent time with Jerry can probably recall at least one of his famous jokes, as he cracked himself up with that infectious laugh well before he ever got to the punchline. He was a family man who worked two jobs most of his life to support his family and ensure his children’s Catholic schooling and upbringing. As he aged, he embraced technology but still held onto a few old-school favorites, like going to the

post office and cutting articles out of the newspaper. His friendship and generosity were treasured by many. Later in retirement, welcoming his two grandchildren into his tight-knit family was one of the greatest joys of his life, and the adoration was mutual.

Jerry was a friend to everybody and relished a full life surrounded by an exceptional family and large group of wonderful friends – too many to name but overflowing with kindness, merriment and warmth. He lived a life of meaningful acts of love and service, like Christ modeled for us, and we will keep his memory alive by loving unconditionally and showing kindness to all.

There wasn’t much in this world that couldn’t be cured by sharing a cigar, a conversation and a laugh with Jer on the deck, and we eagerly await the day we’ll all be reunited. Until then, Jerry, you are forever loved and profoundly missed.

Funeral services were held on Saturday, Feb. 25 at Visitation Catholic Church, Elmhurst. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Special Olympics. Arrangements in care of Elmhurst Community Funeral Home – The Ahlgrim Chapel. For info, www.ElmhurstFH. com or (630) 834-3515.

Kenneth Stratton, 71 Kenneth Stratton, of Naples Fla., formerly of Elmhurst, passed away on Jan. 30, 2023 just three days after his 71st birthday. He was born in Chicago on Jan. 27, 1952 to William and Dorothy (Jones) Stratton. Kenneth graduated from Proviso East High School and went on to serve honorably in the U.S. Army. He raised his family in Elmhurst, where he was a soccer coach for many years. Kenny spent his career in manufacturing sales before semi-retiring to Naples, Florida, where he worked for a local nonprofit organization.

Kenny was a proud father of William Stratton (Brian Coffin) and Bethany Stratton (Dustin Perkins). He was a loving godfather of both Brian Stratton and the late Craig Tonkinson, an adoring uncle to dozens of other nieces and nephews and former husband to Linda (Eckert) Donahue.

Kenny was pre-deceased by his siblings Robert (Patti), Terrence (Don) and Janet (late Alan) Filip. He See OBITUARIES, Page 11

Slices of life

Viewpoint Falling off the cliff

Life changes us. Sometimes in increments, like accidentally stepping off the curb.

Sometimes in ways akin to falling off a cliff. It’s these cliff— changing moments that transform us in ways we never could have imagined—before. It’s like falling from one world into another—into a life so different that your old life can only be referenced as “before.”

This new life. The life you are living “after,” whatever that after may be for you: After a birth. After a death. After a divorce. After a marriage. After a major illness.

After some life changing event— truly life changing in every aspect of every day and every minute.

An event so sweeping that it encompasses you and every cell of your being. It changes the way you view the world.

By JILL PERTLER Slices of Life

And whether excruciatingly joyous or magnificently sad, you understand you will never be the same again. You can’t ever go back to the you that was before. That door has irrevocably and permanently shut and the only way forward is, well, forward.

It’s almost like the before never happened. It’s hard to remember what life was like— back then. Sometimes you want to remember—you long for

it—but you just can’t go back. In reality or memory. Oh, sure, you can recall certain instances, certain experiences, but to actually remember—on the cellular or the heart level—what it felt like to live that “other” life? No. You can’t because you’ve changed and you’re no longer the person who lived that life—before.

You can recall, but you can’t remember. Not really. And it wouldn’t be right if you did, because every day—every moment—you are changing and evolving and becoming a new you. A you who is living in the now, not the before.

Perhaps not by choice, but by circumstance.

With that said, your life now is not always in the after. You try, but sometimes it hits you. It hits

you so hard that you have to catch your breath and consciously will yourself to breathe in and out. One gulp of air at a time.

Your mind bends to the before—because you may want that badly—and it engulfs you just as surely as falling off the cliff engulfed you. Like a rockslide or avalanche.

But then on the second, or third, or 15th or 80th breath you find you are breathing normally again. Your heart is not thumping out of your chest, but seems to be beating along with the air flowing in and out of your lungs.

And in that moment, you realize there really isn’t a before or after; there is only a now.

You may long for the before, and I often do.

You may long for a new after,

which I also do.

But what you really have is now. Right now. Today.

And you can choose how to perceive this.

It can be constricting—denying you both your past and the future. Keeping the memories at bay. Keeping hope just beyond reach. Or, it can be liberating. Providing hope and strength to both your past and your future. Giving memories their space, without letting them control you. Allowing the hope and joy and trust to surround your now and allow you to know it will be all right.

Because it is all right. Already. It is. See that. Embrace that. It’s all going to be okay, and that is a very lovely thing. Worth smiling about, even.

Letters to the Editor New law allows Illinoisans to change sex on birth certificate without doctor’s affirmation

UCCA thanks community for support at holidays

United Community Concerns Association (UCCA) would like to thank the Elmhurst community for its donations of food, money, and endless hours of time volunteered during our 43rd Annual Holiday Food Drive. Our community’s generosity helped make the holiday season brighter for 275 families with children in Elmhurst Community School District 205 schools. With the community’s help, UCCA provided these families with over 1,150 boxes of donated food and food gift certificates worth $33,500.

We would also like to give special thanks to the City of Elmhurst, City Manager Mr. James Grabowski, and all city employees, especially those from Public Works; Dr. Keisha Campbell, Superintendent of Elmhurst District 205, all District 205 students, families, social workers, and staff; Dan Gibbons Turkey Trot; Elmhurst Jaycees; Elmhurst Park District and its employees; Elmhurst Public Library; Elmhurst YMCA; Elmhurst Rotary Club; the many local preschools, churches, organizations and businesses that collected food; our generous donors and approximately 400 volunteers who sorted, packed, loaded cars, and delivered the food.

We are a 100% volunteer organization that helps feed our neighbors in need. This would not be possible without our dedicated volunteers, our generous partners, and our caring community. Because the need is as strong as ever, your financial support is appreciated year-round as we continue to work together to fight hunger in our Elmhurst community. Donations may be made through our website at www.ucca-elmhurst.org or mail to UCCA, PO Box 324, Elmhurst, IL 60126. For more information, please visit our website at www.ucca-elmhurst.org.

The Officers and Directors of United Community Concerns Association (UCCA)

Shari Haug,

Independent’s coverage of DeSantis was biased, reader says

Illinois becomes 12th state, first in Midwest, to allow self-attestation

By Nika Schoonover CAPITOL NEWS ILLINOIS

Illinoisans seeking to legally change the gender on their birth certificate will have an easier time under a new law signed by Gov. JB Pritzker.

“Here in Illinois, we recognize that gender transition is a personal journey that doesn’t always follow a prescriptive medical path, but still deserves to be honored legally,” Pritzker said in a statement. “In a time of increasing violence and hateful rhetoric against the trans, nonbinary, and gender non-conforming community, it is more important than ever to reaffirm our state’s commitment to recognizing the rights and dignity of LGBTQ+ Illinoisans.”

“The old requirement, it was a barrier to equality,” Ziri, whose organization worked on the bill with other advocacy groups, said. “Someone may not be able to afford a visit to a doctor, or there may not be an affirming provider.”

By removing the need of a health care professional to reaffirm an individual’s gender change status, the law makes it easier for a person’s documents to be consistent, according to a statement from state Sen. Laura Fine, D-Glenview, a lead sponsor on the bill.

“This legislation will now make it easier for trans and nonbinary people to live as their authentic selves and ensure consistency on legal documents,” Fine said in the statement.

president

As a long time Elmhurst resident, I was in attendance as an observer at the Knights of Columbus event hosting [Florida] Governor [Ron] DeSantis. There were many people there in support of him and his Back the Blue efforts. There were American flags being waved. I even observed baseball teams with signs that read “Please Sign My Baseball” as Ron was captain of his team at Yale.

I was disappointed in the negative coverage and photos focusing only on the protesters who were probably bought and paid for. The biased news coverage was not fair and balanced to say the least. I always had the impression the Independent rose above this type of reporting. Jan Saccomanno

Under House Bill 9, which will take effect July 1, individuals will no longer need a medical professional to affirm they have undergone gender reassignment surgery or other clinical treatment in order to change their gender on their birth certificate. Once the change takes effect, they simply have to submit a statement expressing their intention to change their gender classification.

Mike Ziri, director of public policy at Equality Illinois, said in an interview that the policy change was important because individuals often do not have access to a provider and because providers sometimes refuse to consent to providing such a statement.

An updated birth certificate can make it easier to obtain a new driver’s license reflecting the person’s gender identity, said Brigid Leahy, vice president of public policy at Planned Parenthood Illinois Action.

“If your birth certificate doesn’t match other documents that you have, it can be complicated and confusing for everyday life and doing things like applying for certain things where you need documentation,” Leahy said. “And if there are inconsistencies in that documentation, it can make it harder for you to complete the process.”

The measure passed with only Democratic support in both chambers of the General Assembly.

The law also waives the costs associated with acquiring a new birth certificate for previously incarcerated individuals, homeless people, youths under care of the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services, individuals under 27 who were previously in care and individuals living in domestic violence shelters.

“Access to your birth certificate will become a less onerous process for many Illinoisans, removing barriers for people who already face so many,” Rep. Jennifer Gong-Gershowitz, D-Glenview, another lead sponsor on the bill, said in a statement.

A new birth certificate request usually costs $15, plus $2 for each additional copy.

The law is the latest passed in Illinois that expands protections for transgender individuals, following protections for gender-affirming care and a measure allowing people previously convicted of felonies to change their name “due to marriage, religious beliefs, status as a victim of trafficking or gender-related identity.”

With the new law, Illinois joins 11 other states in allowing self-attestation of gender on birth certificates, according to Equality Illinois.

“We’re really excited that Illinois is moving on this issue on the topic of birth certificates into those ranks of those affirming states,” Ziri said.

School Board Capsules

Here’s what’s going on at School District 205

By Chris Fox FOR THE ELMHURST INDEPENDENT

The Elmhurst Community Unit School District 205 Board held a regular meeting on Tuesday, Feb. 21 at the District 205 Center, 162 S. York St. All seven board members attended the meeting.

ILMEA students honored

The board recognized several York High School student musicians during the meeting’s spotlights and recognitions segment. Those students were recognized for recently being selected for the Illinois Music Education Association (ILMEA) All-District Band, Chorus, Orchestra and Jazz Band. The York students who were selected for the All-State ensembles included: Samuel Deverman (Orchestra, French Horn), Julian Dominguez (Honors Jazz Band, Jazz Tenor Sax), Ryan Felice (Honors Chorus, Tenor II), Evan Hartlage (Band, Euphonium), Zhihanna Liu (Orchestra, Violin), Colin Mahoney (Band, Bass Clarinet), Isabella Nichols (Honors Orchestra, Double Bass), Mac Olson (Honors Band, Trumpet), Quinn Olson (Honors Orchestra, Cello), Amarin Sharma (Orchestra, Violin), Alyssa Poli (Composition), Wes Krissinger (Composition) and Lauren Capuno (Composition).

Additionally, the board recognized a York student musician group— Dear Valentine—that was selected to perform at the ILMEA annual conference in Peoria. The members of Dear Valentine are: Lauren Capuno, Charisse Campos, Anisa Connor, Leah Thomas and Andre Galvao.

Dual language program discussed for Fischer Elementary

The meeting also included a presentation about the Dual Language Program at Conrad Fischer Elementary School. The presentation noted that the program helps students become bilingual, biliterate and bicultural. The program includes children in kindergarten through fourth grade. There are 75 kindergarten students in the program, along with 85 first-graders, 67 second-graders, 72 third-graders and 62 fourth-graders.

The Dual Language Program at Fischer includes a language allocation of 80 percent Spanish and 20 percent English for students in kindergarten and first grade. The language allocation is 70 percent Spanish and 30 percent English for second-graders. The allocation is 60 percent Spanish and 40 percent English for third-graders, and 50 percent Spanish and 50 percent English for fourth-graders.

York Leadership Team offers presentation

Members of York’s Student Leadership Team gave a brief presentation during the meeting. The students mentioned that one of their team’s goals is to serve as a conduit between the school’s administration and students. The students who spoke

during the presentation included Avery Kendrick, who is the president of York’s student body, and Nathan Thokkudubiyyapu, who is the president of the school’s National Honor Society. They stated that the team is trying to promote a climate of respect at the school. They also noted that March is National Disability Awareness Month, and that the week of March 13-17 will be Kindness Week at York. The week will conclude with a pep rally on March 17.

Report given on recent student assessments

The board meeting of Feb. 21 featured a presentation about results from recent assessments administered to district students in kindergarten through eighth grade. Each school year, the district administers assessments to measure student performance. During the current 202223 school year, the district gave two administrations of the Northwest Evaluation Association (NWEA) Measures of Academic Progress (MAP) assessment, one in the fall and another that recently concluded this winter. The presentation at the meeting reviewed the winter results.

The recent NWEA/MAP assessment measured students’ performance in reading and math compared to national norms. According to the district, students take the assessment on a computer. The assessment is highly adaptive; no two students see the same test questions.

The presentation featured several charts, figures and graphics. District 205 Superintendent Keisha Campbell said the results from the winter NWEA/MAP assessment shows some significant student growth, as well as opportunities for improvement.

Schmidt delivers facilities update

Todd Schmidt, the district’s director of facilities, gave an update during the meeting on several facilities projects, including the project to build a new Field Elementary School. Schmidt said the project at Field is coming together nicely. He said the construction of the new school is a little ahead of schedule and on budget, and will be ready to open for the 2023-24 school year in August.

Schmidt said the current construction project at Fischer Elementary School, which includes the addition of six classrooms, should also be completed before the start of the 2023-24 school year. There will be some additional interior renovations at Fischer this summer. Those renovations, which include water piping replacement, corridor improvements and the addition of new public address and clock systems, will also be finished in time for the start of the 2023-24 school year.

Some other district projects that will take place this summer include renovation work at Bryan Middle School and Sandburg Middle School. The work at Bryan will feature renovation of the school’s media center, along with renovation of the old main office and the installation of new public address and clock systems.

The upcoming work at Sandburg in-

cludes similar improvements, such as a media center renovation, along with new public address and clock systems. Those projects at Bryan and Sandburg should be completed before the 2023-24 school year begins this August.

Another project that will begin this summer is the renovation of York High School’s auditorium. That project will begin this June and last over one year, until August 2024. Schmidt said the auditorium will be shut down for about one year while the renovation takes place. He said the auditorium will undergo a makeover, with replacements to seating, lighting, rigging, the audio system, the stage curtain and the orchestra shell.

District to add up to four math interventionists

Board members voted unanimously during the meeting to approve the addition of up to four full-time math interventionist positions for the 202324 school year. The district currently has 20.5 full-time equivalent reading specialist teaching positions from kindergarten through eighth grade, and 1.86 full-time equivalent math interventionist positions that provide support at the middle school level. A district review determined that the district could benefit from providing more comprehensive support to students in math intervention.

The board’s vote means that 4.5 full-time reading specialists will be reallocated as 4.0 full-time equivalent math interventionists, which will result in 16.0 full-time equivalent reading specialists and 5.5 full-time math interventionists.

The board will hold its next regular meeting on Tuesday, March 21.

Hey, where’s my pizza?

This is Lion Barb Savage’s niece Maisie, who is probably a little too young for pizza, but she certainly looks interested in it, as everyone else at her table chows down! The Lions Club Pizza Day was held Saturday, Feb. 25 at Sandburg Middle School.

A pair of Jims

Well, a pair of Jacks might be better if you were playing cards, but at Lions Club Pizza Day on Saturday, Feb. 25, Lions Jim Hallberg (left) and Jim Worden helped make the event a big success. The funds raised will support the many community endeavors of the Elmhurst Lions Club.

DEE LONGFELLOW PHOTO Elmhurst Independent

estate/Business

Elmhurst U. awarded grant that teaches soft skills via virtual reality

Elmhurst University and assistant nursing professor Laury Westbury have been awarded a tech grant that will enable students to improve their workplace soft skills with the help of virtual reality.

Elmhurst is one of only two uni-

versities in Illinois, and 106 higher education institutions around the world, to be selected to receive the Immersive Soft Skills Education Grant from Bodyswaps, a soft-skills training startup based in the United Kingdom; and tech giant Meta.

The grant includes two Meta Quest 2 virtual reality headsets and access to the Bodyswaps library of training simulations. The headsets and training modules will enable students to experience training in topics such as conflict management and leadership; diversity, equity and inclusion; public speaking and job interviewing; and handling different workplace scenarios.

The software can assess a user’s performance by tracking eye and other movements and provide feedback on areas for improvement (using the hands too much, not making eye contact, etc.). Users can get the training, and the feedback, in privacy and without judgment.

Westbury plans to use the equipment and software in a leadership course this term for graduate students in the Master’s Entry in Nursing Practice program. Her students likely will use training modules about breaking bad news, bias in the workplace and other situations that some of her students already have been starting to see during their clinical practice.

“I hope there is learning, and that students become more self-aware and build confidence as they’re getting feedback,” she said. “Most importantly, I hope they understand that learning with this kind of technology can allow for a safe zone where they can really be themselves.”

‘Nuclear Accidents, Disasters and the Future’ coming to Elmhurst University

Radiology researcher to deliver Staudt Intercultural Lecture

Gayle E. Woloschak is a professor of radiation oncology and radiology at Northwestern University’s Feinberg School of Medicine, where her research is focused on radiobiology and bionanotechnology. She also leads Northwestern’s Radiation Tissue Archives. Believed to be the world’s largest collection of irradiated animal tissue samples, the archives aid investigators from around the world who are researching the effects of radiation.

On Wednesday, March 8, Woloschak will present “Nuclear Accidents, Disasters and the Future,” this year’s Genevieve Staudt Intercultural Lecture. Professor Woloschak’s leadership as a woman in STEM connects her to the purpose of the Staudt Lecture, which is given annually as part of Elmhurst University’s celebration of Women’s History Month.

The Genevieve Staudt Intercultural Lecture begins at 4 p.m. on Wednesday, March 8, in the Frick Center, Founders Lounge on the campus of Elmhurst University.

The mission of the Radiation Tissue Archives is to collect and disseminate tissues and datasets from experiments sponsored by the U.S. government over more than four decades, beginning in the 1950s. The tissue samples have been exposed to various doses and qualities of radiation, dose rates, and conditions of radiation, with sections available upon request to investigators. In addition to sharing data and materials with the radiobiological community, Woloschak’s group investigates the archive as well.

Admission is free but reservations are encouraged by visiting elmhurst.edu/cultural. For more information, email marketing@ elmhurst.edu.

‘Equitable restrooms’ bill advances in House Bill calls for setting standards for multi-occupant, all-gender facilities

By Peter Hancock CAPITOL NEWS ILLINOIS

A bill that would allow restaurants, hotels and other public places to designate “all-gender multiple-occupancy” restrooms passed out of a House committee Feb. 22, sending it to the full House for consideration.

House Bill 1286, sponsored by Rep. Katie Stuart, D-Edwardsville, is similar to one that passed through the House in 2021 but died in the Senate.

“So it just creates the opportunity for places, businesses, universities, you name it, to create a multi-stall gender-neutral restroom, if they so choose,” Stuart said during the hearing. “And it lays out requirements for what is in that facility.”

In 2019, the General Assembly passed the Equitable Restrooms Act, which identified all single-occupancy restrooms in public places as gender-neutral and designated them for use by no more than one person at a time, or for family or assisted

use. But there is currently no law in Illinois authorizing multi-occupancy restrooms to be gender-neutral.

The text of the bill states its purpose is “to promote the privacy, safety, and gender inclusivity of all Illinois residents and visitors,” and that the measure should be “liberally construed” to carry out its purpose.

It would require that such restrooms be clearly marked at their entrance with “inclusive signage” that does not indicate any specific gender. It would also require that each toilet stall be separated by dividers and a functioning lock mechanism on the door.

Urinals, if present, also would have to be separated by partitions.

The bill also provides that any multi-occupancy restroom could be converted to an all-gender restroom. But if another multi-occupancy restroom that is designated for a specific gender is located adjacent to or near the all-gender restroom, both would have to be designated as

all-gender facilities.

Additionally, the bill would set out more specific standards for multi-occupant all-gender facilities that are part of a newly constructed building or one resulting from major renovations of a building.

The bill would require the Illinois Department of Public Health to adopt administrative rules to implement the new standards.

Rep. Charlie Meier, R-Okawville, said the bill’s requirements could impose significant costs on the owners of large arenas where plumbing fixtures are already in place.

But Stuart said those facilities would be under no obligation to convert their existing restrooms to all-gender facilities. She said the bill would only allow them to do so if they choose.

The bill passed out of the House Human Services Committee on a party-line vote of 6-3. It now goes back to the full House where it could come up at any time for final vote.

(Continued from page 7)

is survived by his sisters, Joan (late Ron) Tonkinson and Cathy (Jim) Soliz as well as his brother Timothy (Helen).

A lifelong Blackhawks fan and former beer-league player himself, Kenny’s passion for hockey was only outmatched by his love of the open water. When not helping others, he could be found enjoying (or fixing) one of several boats that passed through his hands over the years. With a personality as big as his heart, Kenny was a legend who proved that not all who wander are lost and a man who never just said, “Bye” but always said, “Bye for now.”

Kenny passed peacefully in Janesville, Wisc., surrounded by his family. A Mass of Christian burial will take place this spring. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to NAMI of Collier County at 3050 Horseshoe Dr. N., Suite 168, Naples, FL, 34104. Arrangements provided by Legacy by Memoriams.

William John Lestina, Jr.

William John Lestina, Jr., 78, of Oak Brook, passed away at home surrounded by family on Feb. 19, 2023. Beloved husband of Shirley (nee Vollmer) for 52 years, loving father of Todd (Sarah) and Scott (Meg), proud grandfather of Bella, Colin, Logan, Luke, Scarlett, and John, dear brother of Linda (Sherrill) Freesmeyer, fond uncle and cousin. He was preceded in death by his parents Bill and Tina, brother Tom and sister-in-law Karen. Bill was born in Chicago on Nov. 5, 1944, served in the U.S. Navy, and graduated from Northern Illinois University (NIU). He started his own tax preparation business in 1972, which he passed on to his sons. Bill will be remembered for his sense of humor, his easy-going, caring nature, and his ability to work magic on tax returns for his clients. He loved his family, travel, golf, and a good day at the casino. Visitation will be held on Sunday, March 12 from 2 p.m. until time of service at 3 p.m. at Holy Trinity Lutheran Church, 350 E. Madison St., Lombard. In lieu of flowers, donations in Bill’s name may be made to the Salvation Army or the USO: uso. org/donate/donate-in-honor.

Rudolph Diblik, 81 Rudolph Diblik, of Elmhurst, formerly of St. Charles and Winfield, passed away recently at the age of 81; former employee at Blum-Kovler Foundation, Chicago; beloved husband of Kay A., nee Connolly; dear step-father of Joseph (Erica) Davis, Timothy (Jeanette) Davis M.D.; and Todd (Joy) Davis M.D.; proud grandfather of Clark, Paige, Hazel, Pilar and Tommy; dear son of the late Rudolph S. and the late Gladys, nee Bogdanska; fond brother of the late Martin Diblik; Services were held on Monday, Feb. 27 at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, 134 Arthur Street, Elmhurst. Interment Private. Arrangements provided by Gibbons Funeral Home, 134 South York Road. Info: 630-8320018 or www.gibbonsfuneralhome. com.

Elmhurst Community Programs for March

Programs air on COMCAST Channel 6 and AT&T U-Verse Channel 99 Programs may also be found at ElmhurstTV.com

Explore Elmhurst

26th Annual Elmhurst St. Patrick’s Day Parade

Grand Marshal: Jack Island

Announcers: Ken Bartels & John Quigley

Tuesdays at 6 p.m. (starts Tue 3/14)

Explore Elmhurst

53rd Annual Elmhurst University

President’s Community Breakfast

Keynote Speaker: Dr. Troy VanAken, Elmhurst University President

Fridays at 7 p.m. (starts Fri 3/17)

Explore Elmhurst

Elmhurst League of Women Voters

Spring 2023 Candidate Forum

Elmhurst City Council (Wards 1, 2, and 7)

Elmhurst City Council (Ward 6)

Sundays at 4 p.m. (starts Sun 3/5)

Explore Elmhurst

Elmhurst League of Women Voters

Spring 2023 Candidate Forum

Elmhurst Park District Board of Park Commissioners

Elmhurst Community Unit School

District 205 Board of Education

Saturdays at 4 p.m. (starts Sat 3/11)

Explore Elmhurst

“Tough Like Rudy” at Elmhurst University

Keynote Speaker: Daniel “Rudy”

Ruettiger

At this year’s Niebuhr Center Teach-In, Ruettiger will give the keynote address, “TOUGH Like Rudy: Teach. Overcome. Unite. Grow. Heal.” He will share his compelling story and will discuss the importance of mental self-care and the power of reframing thoughts toward positivity, inspiration and encouragement.

Mondays at 5 p.m. (starts Mon 3/6)

Elmhurst Now #17 2023 State of Our City Address

Master of Ceremonies: Ken Bartels

Keynote Speaker: Elmhurst Mayor Scott Levin

Saturdays at 7 p.m.

Explore Elmhurst Elmhurst Community Unit School District 205

“All District Choir Concert 2023”

Mondays at 7 p.m.

Explore Elmhurst Elmhurst Symphony Orchestra “ConcertoFest!”

“If you’re looking to be dazzled at every turn, this is the concert for you,” says Music Director and Conductor Stephen Alltop.

Sundays at 7 p.m.

Elmhurst PSA loop

Various announcements from the City of Elmhurst

Wednesdays at 5:00pm City Council Meetings air Wednesdays at 12 noon and Thursdays 7 p.m. School District #205 Board meetings air on Thursdays 2 p.m. www.ElmhurstTV.com

Worship Services Directory

St. Timothy Evangelical Lutheran Church

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

Gather with us for Weekend Worship Saturdays at 5:00 p.m. Sundays at 8:30 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. Education Hour between services at 9:45 a.m. Mid-week Worship during Lent Wednesdays, February 22 - March 29 12:00 p.m. and 6:30 p.m.

142 E. Third St. Elmhurst, IL ImmanuelElmhurst.org 630-832-1649

Handicapped accessible and hearing loop enabled

432760

Lent and Easter Services at 7 p.m.

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

“The Crucial Hours”

Lent and Easter Services at 7 pm

Second Lenten Service March 9, 2022

Final Steps”

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

Second Lenten Service March 1, 2023

Third Lenten Service March 16, 2022

Rev. Phil Schupmann “Led to A Tomb” Resurrection, Aurora John 11

Third Lenten Service March 8, 2023

Rev. David Ernest “Led to A Fig Tree” Jerusalem Lutheran, Morton Grove Mark 11:12-14, 20-25

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

Fourth Lenten Service March 15, 2023

Fourth Lenten Service March 23, 2022

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

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

Fifth Lenten Service March 22, 2023

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

Fifth Lenten Service March 30, 2022

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

Sixth Lenten Service March 29, 2023

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

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

Maundy Thursday Communion 7 p.m., April 14

Easter Sunrise 6:30 am, April 9

Good Friday Tenebrae 7 p.m., April 15

Easter Breakfast 8:00 am, April 9

Easter Sunrise 6:30 a.m., April 17

Easter Festival 10:15 am, April 9

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

Annual Bags for Wags event commemorates life of Brian E. Wagner

Walsh-Covarrubias ‘Don’t Call It a Comeback’ team takes first

The Brian E. Wagner Scholarship Fund (BEWSF) hosted the 12th annual Bags for Wags charity event, the total proceeds collected at the outing was more than $8,500. The BEWSF continues to fulfill their mission to encourage emerging young leaders to make a positive impact in their lives and the well-being of their communities through volunteer service. The cause commemorated the life of Brian Edwin Wagner who tragically passed away in an auto accident while attending York High School several decades ago.

Although he never had the chance to pursue his dreams in college, Brian’s ambition is remembered through the recipients of this scholarship. Those that receive it proudly carry on his legacy of excellence. The organization has bestowed this honor to more than 35 college-bound students from the high schools of Fenwick, IC Catholic Prep, Montini, Timothy Christian and York. The 2023 awardees will be announced this Spring. All will receive money to use towards tuition for college enrollment in the Fall.

The highly anticipated outing to reunite members of Elmhurst and the surrounding community to celebrate Brian Wagner’s memory received overwhelming support. A total of 28 teams competed, with Jack Walsh and Hector Covarrubias’s team called, Don’t Call it a Comeback, finished first overall.

Some of the past scholarship winners were in attendance including the families of Carey, Doherty, Hoffman, Hill, Lawton, Pukala, Russ, Vreeland and Wede.

The BEWSF offers their gratitude to all the local businesses who gifted raffle prizes/silent auction items, and all attendees for their generous contributions. A special thanks goes out to: Guaranteed Rate, Visitation Parish, Giuliano’s Restaurant and Mama Maria’s who served as the event sponsors.

“I am thankful to be part of this event each year,” Theresa Stubitz BEWSF committee member said. “Seeing the gratitude of college students in need, directed toward Brian E. Wagner who gave selflessly in his life, is such a great blessing and it is always a joy to talk with the recipients when attend this gathering. Education is a gift that lasts a lifetime and this memorial scholarship program provides a meaningful way to honor Brian while carrying his legacy forward to future generations of students.”

Students who wish apply for the scholarship award will have the opportunity to tell their personal stories and share experiences of how their leadership endeavors have affected their communities for the better. The ideal candidates will possess Brian’s most admirable qualities: fortitude, integrity and resilience. For more information, visit BrianEWagnerFund.org.

Community Calendar

Pick of the Week:

Saturday, March 4

The Elmhurst St. Patrick’s Day Parade will step off at 12 noon, from Wilson St. and Spring Rd. heading north, ending at the railroad tracks one block south of St. Charles Rd., just north of the former Silverado Grill. Don’t miss it!

Wednesday, March 8

At 4 p.m. in the Founders Lounge of the Frick Center on the campus of Elmhurst University, radiology researcher Gayle E. Woloschak will present “Nuclear Accidents, Disasters and the Future,” this year’s Genevieve Staudt Intercultural Lecture. Admission is free but reservations are encouraged. Visit elmhurst.edu/cultural. Info: email marketing@elmhurst.edu.

Thursday, March 9

At Irion Hall on the campus of Elmhurst University, the Elmhurst Centre for Performing Arts (ECPA) will present “An Intimate Evening with Dan Konopka,” as part of York High School Fine Arts Week. A York graduate, Konopka will share stories of his road to success, which includes winning a Grammy. Q&A to be led by York music teacher Chris Gemkow. Doors open at 7 p.m. For tickets and more information, visit www.

ECPA-Elmhurst.org

Saturday, March 11

Beginning at 7 p.m., the Elmhurst Symphony Orchestra (ESO) presents To A New World at Elmhurst Christian Reformed Church, including classic works by Coleridge-Taylor, Dvoák, and Tchaikovsky and featuring cellist Jean Hatmaker, and violinist Isabel Chen, the 2021 Stanger Young Artist winner. Pre-concert lecture with Ted Hatmaker begins at 5:45 p.m. For tickets, visit ElmhurstSymphony.org/event/to-a-newworld.

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 630-8331457.

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 Rd.

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 630-8331457.

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 630-8331457.

Wednesday, April 4 Consolidated Election. Don’t forget to vote.

To post a community event or club meeting, email the information to Independent@rvpublishing.com and put “Community Calendar” in the Subject line.

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 630834-0202.

SUBMITTED PHOTO Elmhurst Independent

Participants take part in the 12th annual Bags for Wags charity event for the Brian E. Wagner Scholarship Fund (BEWSF), which raised more than $8,500 for scholarships. The Fund is named for York student Brian Wagner who passed away in an automobile accident several decades ago.

Illinois earns 7th credit upgrade in less than two years

S&P cites recent early debt retirement, buildup of rainy day fund

By Peter Hancock CAPITOL NEWS ILLINOIS

S&P Global Ratings announced Feb. 23 that it had raised Illinois’ long-term credit rating to A-, up from BBB+, marking the seventh upgrade the state has received from a major rating agency in less than two years.

The rating applies to roughly $27.7 billion in outstanding general obligation, or GO, bonds.

“The upgrade on the GO debt reflects our view that Illinois’ commitment and execution to strengthen its budgetary flexibility and stability, supported by accelerating repayment of its liabilities, rebuilding its budget stabilization fund to decade highs; and a slowing of statutory pension funding growth, will likely continue during the outlook period,” S&P Global Ratings credit analyst Geoff Buswick said in a news release

Bonds are a tool that governments and businesses use to borrow money, typically for long-term capital projects such as building construction or other kinds of infrastructure. GO bonds are backed by the government’s general taxing authority but other bonds may be backed by more specific revenue sources, such as sales or motor fuel taxes. Higher bond ratings generally mean the borrower—in this case the state—pays lower interest rates.

Before the recent string of upgrades, all three major rating agencies—including Moody’s Investors Service and Fitch Ratings—had rated Illinois’ bonds at one notch above “junk” status, the point at which large institutional investors will no longer purchase them.

During the last two years, however, Illinois has used higher-than-expected revenues to pay off its backlog of past-due bills and retire other shortterm debt early. In addition, it has set aside $1.9 billion for the state’s budget stabilization fund—commonly known as the “rainy day” fund—and the state is projected to deposit another $138 million into that fund in the upcoming fiscal year, according to Gov. JB Pritzker’s latest budget proposal

“I am thrilled to see our hard work

at righting the past fiscal wrongs of our state reflected in today’s action by S&P with another credit rating upgrade—the third such upgrade in just two years,” Pritzker said in a statement. “Our continued fiscal responsibility and smart budgeting will save Illinois taxpayers millions from adjusted interest rates, and my partners in the General Assembly and I look forward to building on that success.”

In its announcement Feb. 23, S&P credited the state’s “deep and diverse economic base” as well as the state government’s access to readily available cash, including the rainy day fund and untapped interfund borrowing authority. The agency also said it expects ongoing union contract negotiations to be settled in a timely manner.

Offsetting those factors, S&P said, is the state’s high unfunded pension and other postemployment benefit liabilities such as health care. The agency also dinged Illinois on its practice of releasing annual financial audits later than most other states and population declines, which it warned could impact future economic growth.

S&P said it could further upgrade Illinois’ rating if the state continues paying down unfunded pension liabilities and building up its rainy day fund while shrinking its structural deficit. S&P said that deficit was in large part caused by not contributing to its pension funds at actuarially determined levels.

On the other hand, S&P said it could downgrade the state’s rating in the future if the structural deficit were to increase due to economic uncertainties or if its pension and other fixed-cost obligations exceed expectations.

Pritzker’s recent budget proposal seeks to add an extra $200 million to the pension fund beyond statutory levels for the current fiscal year.

For now, S&P said the state’s nearterm credit outlook is “stable.”

In addition to upgrading the state’s general obligation bond rating, S&P also raised its rating on the state’s Build Illinois sales tax bonds to A, up from A-.

School choir performs at Adult Christian Day Care

On Thursday, Feb. 16, Franklin Middle School Choir of Glen Ellyn performed for Adult Christian Care Memory Program at Epiphany Lutheran Church in Elmhurst. Choir Director Crystal Forbes brought a choir of 80 middle school students who sang in flawless harmony. Even more special, the clients of Adult Christian Care who struggle to remember recent events, names and even conversations sat with smiles and tapped to the harmony of the choir. This was a special event for the choir director Crystal Forbes, as her dad is a member of Adult Christian Care and her number one fan. Music plays an important role in our daily lives and is woven into the fabric of society. It is a universal gift and its power to connect people is without question.

Elmhurst Public Library programs - March 3-10

Friday, March 3 from 2-4 p.m. Friday Features: Ticket to Paradise

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

Saturday, March 4 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.

Sunday, March 5 from 2:303:30 p.m.

Lyric Opera Lecture: Carmen Hear the story, learn about the composer, and listen to the music of Carmen. Live in-person. Registration required.

Monday, March 6 from 10 a.m.12 p.m. Scrabble Club

Play a friendly game of Scrabble. All skill levels welcome. Live in-person. No registration required.

Tuesday, March 7 from 1-3 p.m. Bridge & Pinochle Club

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

Tuesday, March 7 from 1:302:30 p.m.

Staying Mentally Fit

Join us for fun mental enrichment including games, puzzles, and other activities that boost memory, reasoning, and other cognitive abilities. Live in-person. Registration required.

Tuesday, March 7 from 6:308:30 p.m.

Negotiate Like a Pro in Any Business Scenario

Explore the different types of negotiations, the 3-step process to a negotiation, what to do when problems arise, and when to walk away. Presented by ResuMAYDAY. Live in-person. Registration required.

Wednesday, March 8 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 8 from 7-8 p.m.

Organizing 101: Spring Cleaning Specifics

Learn basic organizing principles and practical cleaning solutions for any area of your home. Discover the different types of organizers and how to create an effective plan to help you tackle common areas and maintain organization for years to come. Hybrid event. Registration required.

Thursday, March 9 from 10:30-11:30 a.m.

Culture Club: Tour du Mont Blanc

Trek 105 miles through the Alps as Brian Michalski guides us along Europe’s world-famous Tour du Mont Blanc. As we journey through France, Italy, and Switzerland, learn about the challenges along the trail, the culture of the area, practical planning tips, and more, all seen through the lens of Michalski’s original photography and adventurous retellings. Hybrid event. Registration required.

Thursday, March 9 from 12-1 p.m.

Business Tool Training: Mergent Intellect

This tool provides access to U.S. and international business data, industry news, facts and figure, executive information, industry profiles, and more. Presented with Mergent. Live in-person. Registration required.

Friday, March 10 from 2-4 p.m.

Friday Features

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

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

SUBMITTED PHOTO Elmhurst Independent

- The Elmhurst Independent

The ‘Real’ Rudy

At this year’s Niebuhr Center Teach-In at Elmhurst University, Daniel “Rudy” Ruettiger gave the keynote address, “TOUGH Like Rudy: Teach. Overcome. Unite. Grow. Heal.”

Ruettiger gained fame as the subject of the 1993 movie Rudy, starring Sean Astin, Ned Beatty and Jon Favreau. The film showed his diligent fight to follow his dream to play football for Notre Dame. He shared his compelling story and discussed the importance of mental self-care and the power of reframing thoughts toward positivity, inspiration and encouragement.

A broadcast of the address will be available on the Elmhurst Community Schedule of Programs on Mondays at 5 p.m., beginning Monday, March 6. Programs air on COMCAST Channel 6 and AT&T U-Verse Channel 99. Programs may also be found at ElmhurstTV.com

Daniel ‘Rudy’ Ruettiger addresses Elmhurst University’s ‘Teach-In’

Playing to the camera

The ‘real’ Rudy speaks

Welcoming the crowd

Enjoying the keynote address

(Left) At this year’s Niebuhr Center Teach-In, Daniel “Rudy” Ruettiger gave the keynote address, “TOUGH Like Rudy: Teach. Overcome. Unite. Grow. Heal.” Ruettiger is best known as the subject of the 1993 movie “Rudy,” starring Sean Astin, Ned Beatty and Jon Favreau.

MIKE KOZUCHOWSKI PHOTOS Elmhurst Independent

Daniel “Rudy” Ruettiger plays to the camera during his address to the students of Elmhurst University for this year’s Niebuhr Center Teach-In.

Elmhurst University president Dr. Troy VanAken speaks to the crowd who gathered on the campus to hear Daniel “Rudy” Ruettiger.

Elmhurst University students were all smiles as they listened to the keynote address delivered by Daniel “Rudy” Ruettiger, best known from the 1993 movie “Rudy,” about Ruettiger’s fight to fulfill his lifelong dream to play football for Notre Dame.

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

SEASONED

$120 a core delivered Call Jim 630-461-2280

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

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

GREG: (630)234-1471.

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.

PUBLISHER’S NOTICE

ZONING AND PLANNING COMMISSION/ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS

CASE NUMBER 23 P 03

Request for Conditional Use Permit for a Pylon Sign and Variations

Notice is hereby given that the Elmhurst Zoning and Planning Commission/Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing on Tuesday, March 21, 2023 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 Pylon Sign and associated Setback Variations at the property commonly known as 506 W. North Ave (also known as 500 and 508 W. North Avenue) in Elmhurst, Illinois for the purpose of adding an automatic changing sign to an existing pylon sign.

Following is a legal description of the subject property:

PARCEL 1:

LOT 110 (EXCEPT THE EAST 67 FEET THEREOF) IN GRAUE’S OAK LAWN SUBDIVISION OF PART OF THE NORTHWEST ¼ OF SECTION 2, TOWNSHIP 39 NORTH, RANGE 11 EAST OF THE THIRD PRINCIPAL MERIDIAN, ALSO EXCEPT THAT PART MORE PARTICULARLY DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS:

PARCEL NO. 1820002. THAT PART OF LOT 110 OF GRAUE’S OAK LAWN SUBDIVISION OF PART OF THE NORTHWEST ¼ OF SECTION 2, TOWNSHIP 39 NORTH, RANGE 11 EAST OF THE THIRD PRINCIPAL MERIDIAN, ACCORDING TO THE PLAT THEREOF RECORDED MAY 5, 1913, AS DOCUMENT NUMBER 111929 IN DUPAGE COUNTY, ILLINOIS DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS:

BEGINNING AT THE NORTHWEST

CORNER OF SAID LOT; THENCE ON AN ASSUMED BEARING OF SOUTH 90 DEGREES 00 MINUTES 00 SECONDS

EAST ON THE NORTH LINE OF SAID

LOT, 99.92 FEET TO THE WEST LINE OF THE EAST 67.00 FEET OF SAID

LOT TO A 5/8 INCH REBAR WITH AN ALLIED CAP STAMPED, “STATE OF ILLINOIS DIVISION OF HIGHWAYS

R.O.W. CORNER RLS 2377”; THENCE SOUTH 00 DEGREES 00 MINUTES 25

SECONDS EAST ON SAID WEST LINE,

5.00 FEET TO A 5/8 INCH REBAR WITH AN ALLIED CAP STAMPED, “STATE OF ILLINOIS DIVISION OF HIGHWAYS

R.O.W. CORNER RLS 2377”, AND TO THE SOUTH LINE OF THE NORTH 5.00 FEET OF SAID LOT; THENCE NORTH 90 DEGREES 00 MINUTES 00 SECONDS WEST ON THE SOUTH LINE OF THE NORTH 5.00 FEET OF SAID LOT, 68.20

FEET TO A 5/8 INCH REBAR WITH AN ALLIED CAP STAMPED, “STATE OF ILLINOIS DIVISION OF HIGHWAYS

R.O.W. CORNER RLS 2377; THENCE

SOUTHWESTERLY ON A 24.00 FOOT

RADIUS CURVE CONCAVE TO THE SOUTHEAST, HAVING A CENTRAL

ANGLE OF 72 DEGREES 08 MINUTES

55 SECONDS, 3022 FEET TO A 5/8

INCH REBAR WITH AN ALLIED CAP STAMPED, “STATE OF ILLINOIS DIVISION OF HIGHWAYS R.O.W. CORNER RLS 2377”, AND TO A POINT OF COMPOUND CURVATURE; THENCE

SOUTHWESTERLY ON A 282.50 FOOT

RADIUS CURVE CONCAVE TO THE SOUTHEAST, HAVING A CENTRAL

ANGLE OF 07 DEGREES 58 MINUTES

03 SECONDS, 3928 FEET TO A 5/8 INCH REBAR WITH AN ALLIED CAP STAMPED, “STATE OF ILLINOIS DIVISION OF HIGHWAYS R.O.W. CORNER RLS 2377”; THENCE NORTH 87 DEGREES 33 MINUTES 59 SECONDS

WEST, PERPENDICULAR TO THE

WEST LINE OF SAID LOT, 2.00 FEET TO A 5/8 INCH REBAR WITH AN ALLIED CAP STAMPED, “STATE OF ILLINOIS DIVISION OF HIGHWAYS R.O.W. CORNER RLS 2377”, AND TO THE WEST LINE OF SAID LOT; THENCE NORTH 02 DEGREES 26 MINUTES 01 SECONDS EAST ON THE WEST LINE OF SAID LOT, 59.72 FEET TO THE POINT OF BEGINNING, IN DUPAGE COUNTY, ILLINOIS.

KNOWN AS: 508 W. NORTH AVENUE, ELMHURST, ILLINOIS.

PIN # 06-02-100-038

PARCEL 2:

LOT 1 AND THE WEST 21.58 FEET OF THE SOUTH 10 FEET OF LOT 2 OF SCHIRMACHER’S RESUBDIVISION OF LOTS 109 AND THE EAST 67 FEET OF LOT 110 IN GRAUE’S OAK LAWN SUBDIVISION, BEING A SUBDIVISION OF PART OF THE NORTHWEST ¼ OF SECTION 2, TOWNSHIP 39 NORTH, RANGE 11 EAST OF THE THIRD PRINCIPAL MERIDIAN, ACCORDING TO THE PLAT OF SAID SCHIRMACHER’S RESUBDIVISON RECORDED NOVEMBER 28, 1972 AS DOCUMENT R72-72934, IN DUPAGE COUNTY, ILLINOIS.

KNOWN AS: 500 W. NORTH AVENUE, ELMHURST, ILLINOIS.

PIN # 06-02-100-036

PIN: 06-02-100-038, 06-02-100-036

The common street address is 506 W. North Ave (also known as 500 and 508 W. North Avenue), Elmhurst, IL. The subject property is located within the C2 General Commercial District.

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

NOTE: Any person who has a disability requiring a reasonable accommodation to participate in this meeting, should contact Emily Wagner, ADA Compliance Officer, Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 4:30

p.m., City of Elmhurst, 209 N. York Street, Elmhurst, IL 60126, or call 630-530-8095 TDD, within a reasonable time before the meeting. Requests for a qualified interpreter require five (5) working days’ advance notice.

Eileen Franz, City Planner

(Published in The Elmhurst Independent March 2, 2023) 433524

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

ZONING AND PLANNING

COMMISSION/ZONING

BOARD OF APPEALS

CASE NUMBER 23 ZBA 03

Request for Variation

Notice is hereby given that the Elmhurst Zoning and Planning Commission/Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing on Tuesday, March 21, 2023 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 by Dhavel Patel (RIA Builders), owner, for a corner side yard setback Variation at the property commonly known as 984 S. Spring Road, Elmhurst, Illinois for the purpose of constructing a second story addition.

Following is a legal description of the subject property:

LOT 12 IN BLOCK 18 IN ELMHURST PARKSIDE, A SUBDIVISION OF PART OF THE NORTHWEST QUARTER OF SECTION 14, TOWNSHIP 39 NORTH, RANGE 11, EAST OF THE THIRD PRINCIPAL MERIDIAN, ACCORDING TO THE PLAT THEREOF RECORDED JULY 27, 1926 AS DOCUMENT 218315, IN DUPAGE COUNTY, ILLINOIS.

PIN: 06-14-122-024

The common street address is 984 S. Spring Road, Elmhurst, Illinois. The subject property is located within the R2 – Single

Family Residence District.

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

NOTE: Any person who has a disability requiring a reasonable accommodation to participate in this meeting, should contact Emily Wagner, ADA Compliance Officer, Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., City of Elmhurst, 209 N. York Street, Elmhurst, IL 60126, or call 630-530-8095 TDD, within a reasonable time before the meeting. Requests for a qualified interpreter require five (5) working days’ advance notice.

Eileen Franz, City Planner (Published in The Elmhurst Independent March 2, 2023)

433525

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING ZONING AND PLANNING COMMISSION/ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS

CASE NUMBER 23 ZBA 02

Request for Variation

Notice is hereby given that the Elmhurst Zoning and Planning Commission/Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing on Tuesday, March 21, 2023 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 by Jim & Michele Pelafas, owners, for a front yard setback Variation at the property commonly known as 517 S. Fairfield Avenue, Elmhurst, Illinois for the purpose of constructing a covered porch.

Following is a legal description of the subject property:

LOT 37 IN ROBERTSON AND YOUNG’S SPRING ROAD ADDITION TO ELMHURST, BEING A SUBDIVISION IN SECTIONS 10 & 11, TOWNSHIP 39 NORTH, RANGE 11, EAST OF THE THIRD PRINCIPAL MERIDIAN, ACCORDING TO THE PLAT THEREOF RECORDED MARCH 27, 1909 AS DOCUMENT 96414 IN DUPAGE COUNTY ILLINOIS.

PIN: 06-11-126-003

The common street address is 517 S. Fairfield Avenue, Elmhurst, Illinois. The subject property is located within the R2 – Single Family Residence District.

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

NOTE: Any person who has a disability requiring a reasonable accommodation to participate in this meeting, should contact Emily Wagner, ADA Compliance Officer, Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., City of Elmhurst, 209 N. York Street, Elmhurst, IL 60126, or call 630-530-8095 TDD, within a reasonable time before the meeting. Requests for a qualified interpreter require five (5) working days’ advance notice.

Eileen Franz, City Planner (Published in The Elmhurst Independent March 2, 2023) 433527

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Sport S

IC Catholic Prep graduate Leslie headed to Le Moyne

Will play volleyball for Division II school

I feel like I would be so bored without it because it has been such a big part of my life.”

By Mike Miazga CORRESPONDENT

Recent IC Catholic Prep graduate Bella Leslie wanted to head east for college.

Her landing spot ended up being at NCAA Division II Le Moyne College where the former Knights volleyball and soccer standout will continue her volleyball career at the Syracuse, New York school as a libero.

By Mike Miazga CORRESPONDENT

Leslie said she has plenty of memories from IC Catholic Prep’s coach Nancy Kerrigan’s program.

York, ICCP wrestling teams compete at dual-team state meet

Dukes’ girls bowler Bolden finishes 20th in the state

The York wrestling team wrapped up a historic season on the grandest stage possible. Making their first appearance ever in the Class 3A dual-team state tournament, the Dukes lost 43-25 to Yorkville in the quarterfinals at Grossinger Motors Arena in Bloomington.

“All of the schools I was looking at were on the East Coast,” Leslie told the Independent last week. “I visited Le Moyne and really liked it. It reminded me of high school because it was a small school, and in a smaller school you will know a lot more faces than if I would have gone to a bigger school. The campus there is really pretty. It sits on a big hill and the scenery around it is great. Everything is pretty close together. They have very nice facilities. The volleyball program has good workout facilities and a nice locker room. I liked how modern it was.”

In the match against Yorkville, York’s Jake Kubycheck was a winner by fall in 5:40 at 113 pounds. Zach Parisi was a 6-1 winner in his match at 120 pounds. Sean Berger, who recently took fourth in the state individually in Class 3A at 132 pounds, won his match by fall in 4:58. Evan Grazini was a 16-6 major-decision winner at 182 pounds, while Dominic Begora won his match at 285 pounds by fall in 2:17.

Leslie plans on studying nursing at Le Moyne. “They have a good nursing program,” she said. “As far as what kind of a nurse I want to be, I’m not quite sure yet.”

Thanks to wins by Kubycheck (to lead off the meet), Parisi and Berger, York held a 15-3 lead at one point. Yorkville ended up winning

Leslie played volleyball and girls soccer at IC Catholic Prep all four years. She was a center-midfielder on the Knights soccer team.

“I loved playing there,” she said. “I probably enjoyed school volleyball more than club because I love my team and the coaching staff was very supportive on and off the court. It made it a really good environment to be in. Coach (Kerrigan) was great. I have known her for a while. When I was little, I did all the little kids camps, and her daughter was in my brother’s grade at IC.”

eight matches, three by fall and four by major decisions. York won five matches with three by fall and one by major decision. Yorkville ended up finishing fourth in the state.

Leslie said she will miss plenty about IC Catholic Prep. “I will miss how close knit of a community it was,” she said. “I knew everybody at the school. It will be weird going on campus and not knowing all the faces. I’ll miss those close connections with the coaches and teachers. It will be weird for the first year or so.”

York finished the season with a 24-10 dual-meet record. York advanced to the state finals after a 38-32 win over Schaumburg at the sectional level. The Dukes won 11 of their last 13 dual meets of the season. Kubycheck finished up with 14 wins, while Parisi ended up 44-6 this season. Berger finished 40-4, while Grazzini was 24-3 and Begora ended up 31-11.

held at Grossinger Motors Arena in Bloomington.

Leslie’s volleyball journey started in the fifth grade, the first year she could play the sport at IC Grade School. She’s been playing club volleyball since seventh grade, most recently with the Chicago Elite group that practices out of Scores in Willow Springs and Montini High School in Lombard.

“I’m really excited to be able to play volleyball in college,” she said. “It gives me something to do.

York had five wrestlers make the Class 3A individual state finals tournament this season, which tied a program record.

IC Catholic Prep wrestling

The IC Catholic Prep wrestling team lost 39-31 to Fithian Oakwood in the quarterfinals of the Class 1A dual team wrestling state tournament

Leslie said pandemic life hasn’t been overly exciting, though her club volleyball team has started practicing again. “We have been practicing two or three times a week,” she said. “We are going to be starting tournaments again. Before that I haven’t been doing anything because senior soccer season and the club volleyball season were cancelled. We were supposed to go to a few club volleyball qualifiers in Grand Rapids and Louisville. This summer, we have some tournaments planned over the next few weekends. They are little tournaments with all of the local clubs. Nothing large and really local. Other than that, I have been trying to work out a lot and stay in shape. I’ve been running a lot, so I got into that. I try and run every day.”

Leslie said she is scheduled to report to Le Moyne in the Aug. 1215 timeframe, but noted preseason volleyball activities already have

been cancelled due to the pandemic. “I will probably leave Aug. 10-11 because it’s a far drive,” she said. “We had Zoom call with the team recently and they said they should have an answer about our season in the next 7-10 days. They talked about three scenarios and what could happen like if we start the season and someone gets sick and we have to stop and go. That’s one of the reasons why they are looking at moving the season to the spring. Right now the plan is to have a season, but we won’t know until the next 7-10 days.”

Saul Trejo, who took third in the state individually a week earlier at 120 pounds, was a 15-0 technical fall winner at 120 pounds. His win cut the Oakwood lead to 6-5 early. Omar Samayoa was a 9-6 winner for ICCP at 126 pounds. His victory gave the Knights an 8-6 lead. Bryson Spaulding won his bout at 138 pounds via fall in 39 seconds to give the Knights a 14-9 lead after five contests. Joey Gliatta’s 19-4 technical fall win at 152 pounds put ICCP up 19-15, but Oakwood scored the next two wins via fall and took a 27-19 lead with five matches to go. Gliatta finished eighth in the state last week at 152. Foley Calcagno, sixth in Class 1A individually at 182 pounds, cut the lead to 27-24 with a 21-6 technical fall win at 182. ICCP forfeited the 195-pound weight class, which put Oakwood up 33-24.

two contests with Vinnie Gonzalez scoring a 4-0 win at 220 pounds and Class 1A individual state champion Isaiah Gonzalez recording a 20-5 technical fall win at 285 pounds, which put the Knights within a point at 33-32. However, the Knights were docked a point and forfeited the final event of the meet, which produced the final 39-31 outcome.

The Knights finished the dual-meet season with a limited 2-4-1 record. This was the Knights’ second appearance in the dual-team state finals. The 2018 team lost to Vandalia in the quarterfinals. Trejo finished the year 14-4, while Samayoa went 13-2. Spaulding ended up 13-6, while Gliatta finished 13-5. Calcagno ended with a 17-6 mark. Vinnie Gonzalez finished 14-5 and Isaiah Gonzalez had a 19-1 record this season. Oakwood finished in fourth place in the Class 1A tournament.

IHSA state finals meet held outside Rockford. York had a 5,021 series for six games and averaged 167.4 per game.

But if all systems are a go, Leslie can’t wait to take her skills as a libero to the next level with the Dolphins. “I feel like being a libero you have to be really quick and that is typically what I am good at. I have really good reaction time,” she said. “I like diving on the floor and saving balls. It’s a really good feeling when you make a save. The position fits my personality, too. You have to be the loudest one on the court. I have a loud personality. You have to be pretty loud if you want to be a libero. I think I match that description.”

IC Catholic Prep then won the next

IC Catholic Prep boys basketball team concludes season against Montini

Knights finish 23-9; Ciegotura, Gallagher all-conference selections

By Mike Miazga

CORRESPONDENT

it ends all of a sudden like it did.”

(Continued from page 18)

ICCP reached the state quarterfinals with a 51-28 win over Burbank St. Laurence at the sectional level.

York girls bowling

The York girls bowling team finished 21st in the state at the recent

Senior JJ Bolden led York with an 1,158 series. She had high games of 224, 210 and 204. Senior Grace Libert had a 987 series, which included high games of 192 and 178. Junior Julia Clink rolled a 970 series with high games of 187 and 181. Senior Abby Nacyk had a 965 series with high games of 190 and 178. Senior Paige Bolt finished with a 941 series with high games of 187 and 169. Bolden advanced individually to the Saturday finals competition and made a 20-place improvement. She finished 20th in the state thanks to a final-day 1,267 series. Bolden went 225-242-183 for a 650-morning series and then finished 193-211-206 for a 610 series after the lunch break. Bolden sat in 40th place after the first day of competition, 165 pins out of first after averaging a 193 per game. She ended up with a 12-game total of 2,425 and raised her average from 193 after the first day to 202.1 overall for the tournament.

They lost to West Chicago on think an own goal in the last five minutes. That was against the state champs in the sectional finals. That’s a hell of a season if you ask me.”

The IC Catholic Prep boys basketball team saw its 2022-2023 season come to an end after a 45-43 loss to Montini at the Class 2A Lisle regional. Dominik Ciegotura led the Knights with 23 points and 11 rebounds, while junior Jake Gallagher finished with 10 points. IC Catholic Prep was the No. 1 seed in its sub-sectional.

“It was a back-and-forth game with a couple different momentum swings throughout the game,” IC Catholic Prep coach TJ Tyrrell said. “It just wasn’t meant to be. We are taking this one pretty hard. We felt like we had a lot of good basketball left in us. It was a tough one to digest, especially after being together through a great season that had a lot of special moments. It felt too soon for us. It’s hard processing this when

Stopka will teach Spanish at York. He taught Spanish and one math class at St. Pat’s. “My philosophy is I am more of a players’ coach,” he said. “I have been a big Liverpool soccer supporter ever since 2015 when Jurgen Klopp came over and he’s known as a players’ coach. He’s kind of my coaching idol. I want to related to the players and form bonds with them. am more light-hearted and smiling. I like to have fun and joke with the kids. The goal is understanding where each player can be successful and the provide the best way possible to convey the knowledge they need at the position they play. I am not big

huge rah-rah person. I’m a little bit more of an individual players’ coach. I will pull kids to the side at practice and games and teach them.”

ICCP finished the season 23-9 overall. The 23 wins tied for second-most in program history, Tyrrell noted. “We had several quality wins throughout the year,” Tyrrell added.

Stopka noted York has been doing conditioning drills and said the plan as of earlier last week was to start summer camp pending District 205 approval. “I have probably been able to meet 60 to 70 percent of the players so far,” he said. “If it does get approved that would be the start of our contact days with four days a week for three weeks straight. And even though the IHSA waived the blackout dates before the school year, we won’t take advantage of that.

“It was a great group to be around every day. It’s very hard to say goodbye to the seniors Kal (Kilgast), AJ (Walsh), Dean (O’Brian) and Dominik (Ciegotura). We all wanted it for them, especially. It was a very emotional locker room after the Montini game. Basketball is one of those things in life where you don’t get to do it over. Sports bring the highest of highs and lowest of lows. We felt a lot of highs this year. It’s the way it goes. We ended on a very low point.”

“Looking back at it, we’re very grateful for our time together. You could tell how much it means to everybody in and around the program

I’m pretty sure families have plans to do things before school starts. I’m the new guy and I’m not going to say you can’t go with your family. Go do it and enjoy it. This is a crazy and

ble and transparent and communicate with everybody.”

when it hurts like it did the way we ended it. It shows people really care. I think Dr. Seuss said it, don’t cry because it’s over, smile because it happened. That’s the mindset. We had a lot of good memories this season.”

Ciegotura and Gallagher earned all-Metro Suburban Conference Blue Division honors. Ciegotura led the team in scoring at 11.9 points per game and rebounding at 7.8 per game. Gallagher averaged 11.1 points per game and hit 47 three-pointers (.359 shooting from the 3-point line). He also led the team in steals with 42 and was second in charges taken with 10. Kilgast averaged 9.2 points, while O’Brien averaged 5.9 points. Kilgast also drained 28 threes (.289 shooting from 3-point line). Gallagher sank 82 of 108 freethrow attempts (.759 from the line),

See BASKETBALL , Page 19

As far as the future, Stopka wants York competing at a high level on a consistent basis. “The short-term goal is to restock and build up the team,” he said. “A large portion of last year’s team was seniors, especially the starting 11. We have to make sure the now juniors are up to the speed of the varsity level and are ready to contribute. We want to keep that pipeline going with the younger groups of players. We want to make sure we are not only competitive, but that we are competing for regionals, sectionals and supersectionals. It starts for me with this junior class that is coming in. We want them ready to go and setting the standard for these other classes that come in so they can also contribute right off

proudly presents YORK HIGH SCHOOL PLAYER OF THE WEEK

bowling state finals meet near Rockford. Bolden was in 40th place after the first day of competition and enjoyed a 20-place improvement thanks to a final-day 1,267 series that included four games of 200 or higher. Bolden helped York finish 21st in the state as a team.

to add to that total.

“ I’m really excited to be able to play volleyball in college. It gives me something to do. I feel like I would be so bored without it because it has been such a big part of my life.”

– Bella Leslie

Qualtier reaches diving state semifinals

By Mike Miazga Correspondent

The York boys swimming and diving team was well-represented at the recent IHSA state finals meet held at the FMC Natatorium at Ty Warner Park in Westmont. Senior Joseph Qualtier reached the diving semifinals. He scored a 208.20 in

the preliminary round to advance and then scored 303.60 in the semifinals and took 14th in the state.

Freshman Trevor Rice was 39th in the state in diving. He scored a 172.20 in preliminaries and did not advance to the semifinals. Senior

time of 4:42.32. Junior Nick Maiers was 26th in the state in the 200 with a time of 1:45.10. York’s 400 relay team took 29th in the state with a time of 3:16.33 with the team of Martin Polomsky, Charlie McKenna, Harrington and Maiers.

See SwimmerS, Page 19

Earlier, the Dukes finished tied for second at the Downers Grove South sectional. Lisle won the sectional title with 213 points. York and West Chicago each had 208 points. Qualtier won the diving sectional title with a score of 450.70. Rice, a freshman, finished second with a score of 408.35. Maiers won the 200 free sectional title with a time of 1:44.53, while Harrington won the 500 free title with a time of 4:40.08. York’s 400 relay team of Polomsky, McKenna, Harrington and Maiers won the sectional title in 3:15.96. Harrington helped get York from fourth place to first during his leg and Maiers held the lead for the win, which closed out the sectional meet at Downers South. York’s 200 medley relay team took fourth with a time of 1:40.13 with Polomsky, Nick Kamenica, McKenna and junior Tim Jensen.

Sophomore Henry Nelson took 12th in the 200 with a personal-best 1:55.05. Kamenica took sixth in the IM with a time of 2:04.30. Polomsky was 10th at 2:08.80. McKenna was sixth in the 50 at 22.39, while Jensen was eighth at 22.94. Harrington was fourth in the fly with a time of 52.69 and John Heflin was 14th at 1:00.26. Senior Collin Rice was 14th in the 100 with a time of 51.93. Maiers took fourth in the 500 with a time of 4:52.74. The 200-relay team of McKenna, Jensen, Harrington and Maiers took fourth with a time of 1:30.30. Rice was 12th in the backstroke with a time of 59.02, while Dannie Grant was 14th with a time of a minute-flat. Kamenica took fourth in the breaststroke with a time of 1:00.86, while Jensen was fifth at 1:00.96.

A strong finish to the season

York junior Nick Maiers recently took 26th in the state in the 200 freestyle during the IHSA state meet in Westmont. Maiers recently won the Downers Grove South sectional title in the same event. Maiers also swam the 400 relay at state.

while Ciegotura made 75 of 104 foul shots (.721). Karsten led the team with 71 assists and had only 41 turnovers (1.73 turnover-to-assist ratio).

O’Brien pulled in 137 rebounds in 30 games, while Ciegotura also led the team in blocked shots with 14. Kilgast led the team in charges taken with 11.

“I want to thank everyone who supported the program,” Tyrrell said. “We had very good attendance this season. Our student section was very engaged and came out consistently right to the end. I’m very grateful for the support of the boys and the program.”

Tyrrell said the closet is far from bare in terms of talent returning next season. “We do graduate three starters, but have a great group returning led by Jake Gallagher, who was all-conference, and Matt Karsten was a starter for us this year,” he said. “Aidan Johnson and JP Schmidt played a lot of critical minutes and Andrew Hill is a sophomore who we expect big things out of in the future. The program is in a good place. We’ll get back to work

Athlete of the Month Athlete of the Month

IC Catholic Prep Coach TJ Tyrrell

once we process this. We have a lot of good to look back on. We are grateful.”

Montini went on to win the Class 2A Lisle regional title as a No. 7 sub-sectional seed.

Madison Drye

Senior Madison Drye is a three-sport varsity athlete. She had a career high of 27 points on January 31 against Riverside-Brookfield. She is a 4-year starter for the varsity basketball program and is a two-year captain. Madison was voted All-Conference and to the All-Tournament team for the Lisle Tournament both her junior and senior seasons. Madison is averaging 13 points, 5 rebounds, 2 assists, and 2 steals per game. She recently committed to continuing her academic and basketball career at Taylor University (Upland, Indiana) in the fall.

Recognized by

SUBMITTED PHOTO Elmhurst Independent

“Looking back at it, we’re very grateful for our time together. You could tell how much it means to everybody in and around the program when it hurts like it did the way we ended it.”

—

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