EI041323

VOL. 21• NO. 17

Election night ends with some races too close to call

Veremis, Nardini crush opponents; Irby could upset long-sitting Mulliner

By Dee Longfellow

FOR THE ELMHURST INDEPENDENT

By about 10 p.m. on Tuesday, April 4, Election night was virtually over in Elmhurst, with most races seemingly decided within a few hours of the polls closing.

Mayor Scott Levin and former Mayor Steve Morley were enjoying a celebration with past and present City aldermen at Elmhurst Brewing Company, while the District 205 School Board gathered at Fitz’s Pub just across the street.

Voter turnout in DuPage County was reported as 19.37% at press time. Early Voting Ballots as of Tuesday evening at 11:40 p.m. totaled 21,890. Vote-By-Mail Ballots received so far as 35,548, out of 80,380 mail ballots requested, according to the DuPage County Election Commission. All VoteBy-Mail ballots were required to be postmarked on Tuesday, April 4 and must be received by the Election Commission by Tuesday, April 18. After those votes are tabulated, the Election Commission will be able to do a complete and final count of the vote to make the results official. Until the election is certified, there could be changes in the number of votes up until that time and the outcome could change in tight races.

City of Elmhurst races

Alderman Jennifer Veremis held

her seat in the 1st Ward with 866 votes, beating challenger Engy Sutherland with 494 votes, almost a 2-1 margin.

Rhian Carl Fazzini who is a political science student at College of DuPage, entered the race to receive college credit. He garnered just 38 votes.

Guido Nardini leaves little doubt that he will be sworn-in for the Aldermanic seat in the 6th Ward after trouncing Laura A. Vevers with 1,000 votes to her 532.

The 2nd Ward is an example of a races that is too close to call at press time. Karen Sienko had 654 votes and Jacob Meding had received 624, just 30 votes apart.

Likewise, in the 7th Ward, incumbent and longest-sitting Alderman Mark A. Mulliner had 694 votes to Rex Irby’s 721, but again, a margin of just 27 votes.

District 205 School Board

The School Board race was at the top of everyone’s mind with nine candidates vying for just four seats. Some of the candidates on the ballot were associated with a group known as EPIC, or Elmhurst Parents for Integrity in Curriculum, which has been highly critical of the current administration, calling people out during Board meetings.

See ELECTION, Page 3

Bunnies in Blue

DEE LONGFELLOW PHOTO Elmhurst Independent

A little boy dressed in blue named John Michael found a comfy spot for himself and his personalized Easter basket on the lap of the Easter Bunny, which happened to be dressed in blue as well! It all took place on Saturday, April 8 at the Spring Road Egg Hunt. More photos inside.

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A night to celebrate

On Election night, Tuesday, April 4, City officials – former and current – came out to Elmhurst Brewing Company to join First Ward Alderman Jennifer Veremis (3rd from left), who handily beat her two opponents at the polls by a vote of 866-494 over Engy Sutherland (unofficial). A third candidate Rhian Carl Fazzini, a COD student running for college credit, garnered just 38 votes. Some races were too close to call. Pictured are (from left): former Elmhurst Mayor Steve Morley, First Ward Alderman Marti Deuter, Veremis, City Clerk Jackie Haddad-Tamer, 6th Ward Alderman Michael Honquest, 3rd Ward Alderman Dannee Polomsky and Mayor Scott Levin.

• Election

(Continued from front page)

Winners in the School Board race and their vote tabulations include Kelly Henry (6,259), Kelly Asseff (5,137), Beth Hosler (5,659) and Courtenae Trautmann (5,572). Other candidates were Tom Chavez (3,288), Linda T. Nudera (3,236),

Lan Li (2,936), Jammie Esker Schaer (2,230) and Ben Zulauf (1,219).

Elmhurst Park Board

The Elmhurst Park Board had three candidates running for two

seats on its Board of Commissioners. Former Alderman Bob Dunn (3,384) was unsuccessful in his attempt to gain one of those seats; instead, the race was won by Susan M. Smentek (5,396) and Tim Sheehan (4,905).

NOTE: All the tabulations in all races were still unofficial at press time.

Updates to this story will appear at theindependentnewspapers.com, when information is made available.

Clarification

In the Independent’s reporting immediately following the election on Tuesday, April 4, it was indicated that voter turnout was 19.37% at press time and that early voting totaled 21,890 votes. It also said that 35,548 mail-in ballots had been received out of 80,380 requested. Some readers apparently thought those numbers were for Elmhurst only but they are in fact County-wide, as reported by the DuPage County Election Commission. The Independent regrets any confusion.

DEE LONGFELLOW PHOTO Elmhurst Independent

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Philosophy scholar to give Niebuhr Lecture

‘Humanizing Enhancement’

New technologies in neuroscience present exciting possibilities for human enhancement and realizing human potential: They promise to sharpen our intellects, hone our creativity, boost our memory, and integrate our cognitive lives with computers.

On Tuesday, April 18 at this year’s Niebuhr Lecture, Joseph Vukov, associate professor of philosophy at Loyola University Chicago, will explore some of the ideas and ethical issues to be considered before embracing such technologies with open arms.

Vukov is the author of Navigating Faith and Science (2022) and the forthcoming The Perils of Perfection: On the Limits and Possibilities of Human Enhancement. At Loyola, he is also an affiliate faculty member in psychology and Catholic Studies.

The Niebuhr Lecture “Humanizing Enhancement” will begin at 4 p.m. in the Schaible Science Center, Illinois Hall, on the campus of Elmhurst University. Admission is free and all are welcome.

The annual Niebuhr Lecture is Elmhurst University’s oldest lecture series. Featuring theologians and religious scholars, the lectures honor Elmhurst University alumni Reinhold and H. Richard Niebuhr, widely considered to be among the foremost American theologians of the 20th century.

Art Museum completes renovations

Pictured is the staff of the Elmhurst Art Museum, including executive director John McKinnon (back row, left of Spiderman), taking a break following the recent improvements made to the museum while it has been closed. According to McKinnon, more than 70 supporters helped raise $43,425 through recent “Giving Day” donations. “The museum was founded by our community and continues to be supported by our community,” McKinnon said. “We are truly grateful for your support as we prepare for our 26th year of programming.”

Two alleged incidents lead to high-speed chases in DuPage County

DuPage County State’s Attorney

Robert Berlin and Warrenville Chief of Police Sam Bonilla have announced that bond has been set for a Chicago woman accused of leading police on a high-speed chase.

Camille Rouse, 31, appeared before Judge Daniel Guerin who set bond at $10,000, although the state had asked for a bond in the amount of $100,000 for Rouse.

Rouse is charged with one count of aggravated fleeing and eluding a police officer (Class 4 felony) and multiple misdemeanor and petty driving offenses.

On Tuesday, April 4 at approximately 7:28 p.m., a Warrenville police

officer conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle, later determined to be driven by Rouse, for allegedly speeding on Butterfield Road near Route 59. As the officer approached the vehicle on foot, the car allegedly drove away southbound on Route 59.

The officer returned to his squad car, activated lights and sirens and initiated pursuit, which, at times, allegedly reached speeds in excess of 80 mph. The officer lost sight of the vehicle following a brief pursuit. A few minutes later, the officer observed the vehicle crashed on the westbound I-88 ramp. Rouse was taken into custody at this time.

Rouse’s next court appearance is

scheduled Wednesday, May 3 before Judge Guerin.

High-speed chase in West Chicago

DuPage County State’s Attorney Robert Berlin and West Chicago Chief of Police Colin Fleury have announced that bond has been set for a West Chicago man accused of leading police on a high-speed chase. Salvador Bautista, 19, is charged with two counts of aggravated fleeing and eluding a police officer, a Class 4 felony.

On Friday, March 31 at approximately 10:16 a.m., a West Chicago police officer performed a traffic stop on a vehicle, allegedly driven by Bautis-

ta, near Ingalton Avenue and National Street. It is alleged that during the stop, Bautista gave his driver’s license to the officer. It is further alleged Bautista put his car into drive and sped away from the officer, leaving his driver’s license with the officer.

A high-speed pursuit ensued but was called off due to safety concerns because Bautista had allegedly reached speeds exceeding 82 mph in a 25 mphzone and ignored two stop signs.

Following the incident, Judge Alex McGimpsey issued a $50,000 arrest warrant for Bautista, who turned himself in later that evening. Bautista posted bond and was released from custody.

ESO bids farewell to musicologist Ted Hatmaker

Long-time pre-concert presenter to deliver his last lecture May 6

On Thursday, April 7, the Elmhurst Symphony Orchestra announced the retirement of longtime pre-concert lecturer Ted Hatmaker. Hatmaker is slated to present his final pre-concert lecture immediately preceding ESO’s season finale, Beethoven 9, on Saturday, May 6. His lecture, as with all his lectures, is designed to enrich the concert-goers’

listening experience and will focus on the evening’s lineup of musical selections.

Hatmaker has been a patron of the Elmhurst Symphony Orchestra for more than 30 years, during which time he served in various roles including as a board member, program annotator, and, most notably, pre-concert lecturer. When asked how he feels about retirement, Hatmaker acknowledged that it was a difficult decision but added that, “there is so much to know about the music we listen to, and mine is only

one point of view.”

The Elmhurst Symphony community, including music director and conductor Stephen Alltop, the ESO Board and concert-goers alike developed a musical kinship with Hatmaker over the years, appreciating the musicologist’s depth of knowledge, natural ability to teach, and contagious exuberance and good humor.

“Whenever I’ve been able, I’ll sneak up to Ted’s lectures before the concert. I enjoy them so much,” Dr. Alltop said. “I always appreciate his musical insights and hearing about

the music to come that evening.” Hatmaker holds a B.A. in Music from Elmhurst University and M.A. and Ph.D. in Music Theory from the University of Iowa. He taught music theory, aural skills and composition at Northern Illinois University for 24 years and at several other local colleges and universities. Ted’s daughter Jean is the cellist for the Kontras Quartet and principal cello for the Elmhurst Symphony Orchestra. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit ElmhurstSymphony.org.

Ted Hatmaker

SUBMITTED PHOTO Elmhurst Independent

James Allen Miene Sr.

Jim Miene passed away recently at the age of 82. He was born January 29, 1941 in Chicago, to Clarence Miene and Alice Heller. Beloved husband of Diane Miene (Stevenson). Dear brother to the late Robert Miene, Carol Rogers (Miene) and the late Mary Kramer (Miene). Devoted father to the late Jeff Vandeneykle, Bryan Vandeneykle, Staci DiPerte (Miene), Sara Murdock (Miene) and James Miene Jr. Dear uncle to Kevin Kramer, Garret Kramer, Alissa Carlson (Kramer), the late Mike Rogers, Chris Rogers, Jodi Reichensperger (Rogers), Dana Diamond (Rogers), the late Tammy Learned, Kate Learned, the late Kelly Learned, and Amanda Short. Loving grandfather to 12 grandchildren that all adored him. Jim died peacefully surrounded by his family on April 1, 2023. He fought a long battle with congestive heart and kidney failure. Jim was a locomotive engineer who worked for Chicago Northwestern Railroad, until it became Union Pacific Railroad. He retired after 50 years. Jim was a long-time resident of Villa Park and raised his family in his childhood home. He was married to Diane for 54 years and raised five beautiful children. Jim worked very hard for his family and provided a good life. He also served in the Army for six years as a Sergeant. He enjoyed going to car shows, eating out with friends and family, loved to tell jokes to make people laugh, and always made a big presence in any room he entered. Jim loved cruising around in his Corvette convertible and listening to country music. Jim will be forever missed, but his life will never be forgotten. Visitation was held on Tuesday, April 11, at Salerno’s Rosedale Chapels, 450 W. Lake St., Roselle. Interment will be private. For info (630) 889-1700.

Thomas Martin Sheridan

Husband, father, brother, son, uncle, godfather, and beloved grandpa

Thomas Martin Sheridan

Thom was born on November 19, 1949 in Philadelphia and was raised in Havertown, Pa. Tommy loved summer beach trips to Cape May and Wildwood, New Jersey, with family and winning radio contest prizes like a pair of Chubby Checker Twister Shoes with side zippers. Thom was a James Bond fan from the very start, watching Dr. No at the Terminal Theater in 1962 and never missed a book or movie since. After graduating from Havertown High School in 1967, Thom enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1968 during the Vietnam War, serving in Korea from 1970-71. On R&R in Honolulu, a failed trip to Australia, he was reading Kurt Vonnegut when met Maureen Kelly on Waikiki Beach through her best friend Jean Regan, and his life changed. After his military service, he moved to Chicago and married that pretty girl he met on the beach. Thom graduated from the University of Illinois at Chicago, Circle Campus, and worked for many years for the U.S. Department of

Labor where he sometimes traveled the world and drove a spy car, as well as working for the V.A. and the Chicago White Sox. With Maureen, he loved night skiing at Devil’s Lake, doing puzzles, and playing chess.

Thom loved his family with his big heart, volunteered to make the Haunted House at the annual IC Halloween Carnival, cheered on track races and wrestling meets, drove his kids everywhere from Troop 77 campouts to Irish Dancing shows, from cross country trips to Colorado and Maine, making small talk and friends with everyone he met and winning as many radio contests from WGN and WNUA, as legally allowed.

Thom loved to laugh deeply, was a friend to every animal he met, and modeled a love of reading for all his children and grandchildren. He prided himself on his encyclopedic knowledge of trivia, followed the Bears and Eagles, the White Sox and Phillies, and was always up for a fun time. Thom died on April 6, 2023 in his Elmhurst home surrounded by his loving family.

Thom was the husband to Maureen Kelly Sheridan and father of Maureen (Mike) Cook, James Sheridan (Kyrlyn Chatten), Daniel Sheridan (Lauren Scrivner), Patrick Sheridan (Stephanie Kevil), Claire (Scott) Jones, and Caitlin (Ben) Tregler. He was preceded in death by his sister Kathy Medvec, his parents Fred and Lillian Sheridan, along with his mother-andfather-in law Maurice and Frances Kelly. He is survived by his brother Dave Sheridan. His 12 grandchildren, Gavin Cook, Jean Marie Cook, August Sheridan, Elsa Sheridan, Magnolia Sheridan, Owen Jones, Madeline Tregler, Connor Jones, Peter Tregler, Carter Scrivner, Tyler Scrivner, and Cameron Scrivner will always remember his smile, silliness, and warmth. They loved him deeply and will keep him in their hearts.

Funeral Mass was held at Immaculate Conception Church, 134 Arthur St., Elmhurst. Interment Private. In lieu of flowers, donate or visit an animal shelter, seek out some Scrapple and Tastykakes to eat, play some Pink Floyd, feed your backyard squirrels and birds, or cheer on the White Sox. Stop by his bench at Glos Memorial Park to read a book or listen to music.

“Always walk through an exit backwards…they’ll never notice.”

For funeral information, please call 630-832-0018 or www. gibbonsfuneralhome.com.

Dan Rogers, 80

Dan Rogers died peacefully at home surrounded by his wife and children on March 23, 2023, after a long illness. He was 80 years old.

Born on December 11, 1942, in Chicago, Dan was the eldest son of Norman and Margaret Rogers. Dan and his wife Carol made their home in Villa Park for 57 years where they raised their four children, a handful of good dogs, and one bad one.

Dan cared deeply about the town he lived in for so long. He watched

it change and grow since childhood, growing up in neighboring Elmhurst and graduating in Willowbrook High School’s first senior class. Serving as a volunteer firefighter was an early source of pride; Dan was a member of the Villa Park Fire Department until the volunteer force was phased out. As the kids started leaving home, Dan started raising flowers. He found great joy in the garden and took pride in the award-winning and traffic-stopping landscape that he and Carol nurtured so carefully.

He spent countless hours tending to and perfecting his awesome display. He enjoyed visiting with passers-by stopping to ‘talk shop,’ and inspiring people and gardens throughout the area with his green thumb. Dan’s spring garden is now bursting forth, both in the early bloomers on Washington Street and the evergrowing, ever-loving family he leaves behind.

Dan was a passionate craftsman who loved working with his hands. He was highly skilled in multiple

trades, working for years as a local contractor. His experience and expertise led him to corporate construction project management, an arena in which he shone. He understood how things fit together and worked to the highest standard throughout his career. With retirement, Dan always had a few irons in the fire around their historic home - a home he literally knew inside out.

Dan’s end-of-life suffering was See OBITUARIES, Page 7

Police beat

he Elmhurst Police Department recently reported the following arrests and citations. Persons charged with domestic battery are not named in order to protect the privacy of victims. Readers are reminded that an arrest does not constitute a conviction, and that subjects are considered innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law. Juveniles age 17-or-younger are not named.

Battery

April 5

Lashun Richardson, 25, of Maywood, was charged with aggravated battery and retail theft in the 100 block of E. Schiller at 10:02 a.m.

Criminal damage, criminal trespass to property

April 1-April 2

A complainant in the 100 block of E. Van Buren related that an unknown suspect(s) damaged the front door of an apartment building sometime between the above dates.

Domestic battery, disorderly conduct, domestic incident, disturbance

April 5

A 27-year-old Elmhurst man was charged with two counts of domestic battery in the 600 block of W. Crockett at 3:34 p.m. A victim reported the suspect was intoxicated and struck the victim.

April 3

A 34-year-old Elmhurst man was charged with one count of domestic battery in the 600 block of S. York at 11:33 a.m. A victim related to officers that subsequent to a verbal argument, the suspect threw coffee at her.

April 2

A 30-year-old Chicago man was charged with two counts of domestic battery in the 300 block of N. Route 83 at 3:42 a.m.

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

April 4

Tisha Barfield, 38, of Carol Stream, was charged with DUI, improper lane usage and no insurance subsequent to a traffic stop near Highview and North at 12:28 a.m.

April 2

Collin Franke, 27, of Wood Dale, was charged with DUI, use of unsafe tires and operating a vehicle in an unsafe condition subsequent to a traffic stop near Lake and York at 1:56 a.m.

March 31

Jorge Velasquez-Gomez, 39, of Maywood, was charged with DUI, reckless driving, obstruction of justice, attempting to elude a police officer, improper lane usage, improper display of registration and failure to transfer title subsequent to a traffic stop for wrong way driving near Grand and Industrial at 4:47 a.m.

CALL 800-222-TIPS

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.

Possession of cannabis in a vehicle

According to information provided last week by the Elmhurst Police Department, police reported four incidents of possession of cannabis by either the driver of a vehicle or a passenger: Travon M. Rush, 20, of Elgin, in the 100 block of S. Route 83 at 9:41 p.m. March 31; Leslie Padilla, 20, of Maywood, near North and Glade at 8:38 p.m. April 1; Robert E. Harrell, 34, of Chicago, near Route 83 and North at 11:27 p.m. April 2; and Karon M. Keyes, 25, of Addison, near Grand and Lake at 9:09 p.m. April 5.

Possession of a controlled substance

March 30

Anna Rukawiczkin, 39, of Chicago, was charged with possession of a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia in the 200 block of E. Butterfield at 9:41 p.m.

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

April 3

A victim in the 300 block of S. Poplar told police she began receiving texts from Citi Bank and Chase confirming purchases made in Chicago. This is when she realized her wallet had been lost or stolen. The victim’s Citi Bank and Chase cards were canceled.

April 2

A victim near First and York reported at 3:45 p.m. that a suspect described as a black male in his 20s took the victim’s camera from his hands and ran away into an alley. The area was checked with no results. Pending further investigation.

March

block of N. Emory reported that an unknown suspect(s) broke into his company trailer and removed several tools from the interior while it was parked in a gated area and padlocked at the above location. An investigation is pending.

Jan. 17-Jan. 18

A carpet company in the 800 block of N. Industrial was defrauded by an unknown person pretending to be one of their suppliers.

Retail theft

April 5

Police said that subsequent to a call for a retail theft at a business in the 600 block of N. York the victim related an unknown suspect described as a black male requested a carton of cigarettes. The suspect grabbed the carton and exited the store without paying.

April 2

A complainant at a gas station in the 400 block of N. York told police that an unknown suspect(s) took several items and exited without paying.

March 31

Andrew J. Brogan, 40, of Sleepy Hollow, was charged with retail theft at a store in the 500 block of S. York at 1:49 a.m. Police said Brogan left the store with alcohol without paying and was subsequently apprehended.

Warrant arrest

March 31

Police said reporting officers responded to the 5000 block of Park at 11:06 p.m. to assist the Berkeley Police Department apprehend an aggravated vehicular hijacking suspect who was armed with a knife. The suspect, Cameo D. Byrd, 41, of Los Angeles, was placed under arrest and transported to Elmhurst Hospital by Berkeley police. While at Elmhurst Hospital, the suspect allegedly attempted to disarm a police officer. Byrd was charged by Berkeley police with felony charges and transported him to Cook County Jail. On April 2, Byrd was also served with an arrest warrant out of Elmhurst for attempted disarming a police officer.

Police said Eric Eichinger, 41, of Elmhurst, surrendered himself in the Elmhurst Police Department front lobby for a warrant at 2:54 p.m.

March 30

Police said Kevin Miller, 25, of Justice, was served with a warrant for residential burglary on March 30. On Feb. 22, a victim reported that an unknown suspect entered his residence and allegedly removed a pellet gun and jewelry. Police said a reporting 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 allegedly climbed a fence and entered the passenger side of a black Chevrolet SUV.

April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month

Help strengthen families and prevent child abuse

The DuPage County Health Department (DCHD) is using Wear Blue Day and National Child Abuse Prevention Month this April to encourage parents to make DuPage County a better place for children and families.

Wearing blue raises awareness and encourages others to support child abuse prevention and connects individuals together across the county who also support child abuse prevention efforts, strong families, and healthy children. By ensuring individuals have the knowledge, skills, and resources they need to care for children, we can help promote the social and emotional well-being of children and youth and prevent child maltreatment within families and communities.

“According to Kids Count Data Center, last year there were 393 children placed in substitute care away from their families due to child abuse or neglect in DuPage County, a 19 percent increase from 2020,” said Karen Ayala, executive director, DuPage County Health Department. “When we invest in children, we are investing in our communities and our futures.”

April is a time to focus on the important role that communities play in protecting children. Everyone’s participation is critical. Let’s work together to commit to effective strategies that support families and prevent child abuse and neglect. As a community, take action to prevent child abuse by:

• Reporting suspected abuse to the appropriate authorities;

• Educating ourselves and others on the

“ According to Kids Count Data Center, last year there were 393 children placed in substitute care away from their families due to child abuse or neglect in DuPage County, a 19 percent increase from 2020. When we invest in children, we are investing in our communities and our futures.”

–Karen Ayala, executive director, DuPage County Health Department

signs of abuse and how to prevent it;

• Supporting families in need and providing them with resources and services;

• Offering a smile or kind words to parents and caregivers we encounter who are working hard to support their children;

• Advocating for policies and programs that protect children and prevent abuse. DCHD supports the children placed in substitute care through the Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS), with the Health Works program. Health Works skilled case managers offer comprehensive medical case management, and support to foster families within DuPage County.

Secretary of state backs proposal allowing noncitizens to receive

standard driver’s

licenses

For first time, those individuals would have a license that also functions as identification

By Jerry Nowicki CAPITOL NEWS ILLINOIS

The Illinois House recently advanced a measure that would allow noncitizen residents who are currently eligible for a “temporary visitor driver’s license” to instead obtain a “standard” driver’s license that can be used as identification.

Lawmakers created the temporary

visitor driver’s license, or TVDL, in 2013 to ensure all drivers on state roads have passed a road test regardless of legal residency. It is available to individuals who have lived in the state for over one year, do not have a social security number, and may or may not have government documentation authorizing their presence in the United States.

• Obituaries (Continued from page 5)

regrettably long and hard, and Carol’s care was heroic and inspirational throughout. As his body failed him, he missed some simple pleasures the most - visiting his kids and their families, time in the garden, home carpentry projects, and smoking Camels on the deck with a cup of coffee. To honor Dan’s wishes, his family and hospice team were able to bring him home where he was able to spend his final days.

Dan is survived by his wife of 59 years, Carol (nee Miene); Son, Chris (Kristen) of Portland, Ore.; Daughters, Jodi (Bob) Rogers-Reichensperger of Tower, Minn. and Dana (Chris) Rogers-Diamond of Brooklyn N.Y.; Daughter-in-law, Karen Sokol of Burlington Vermont; Brothers, James (Patty) Rogers, Sam Rogers, and Charles Rogers; and many nieces and nephews. He is also survived by 12 grandchildren and 8 greatgrandchildren. He is preceded in death by his parents, by one sister Elizabeth Benedetto, and by his son Michael Rogers. The family would like to host a celebration of life later this summer per Dan’s wishes.

Timothy Manders, 78

Timothy Manders, a longtime resident of Oak Brook, formerly of Elmhurst, passed away peacefully on April 5, 2023 after a long illness, at the age of 78.

He attended York Community High School and served in the Vietnam War from October 1965-August 1967. He received several medals for his honorable service. He was preceded in death by this father John Albert Manders, his mother Virginia Grimes, and his two sisters Gail M. Caro and Deborah M. Stephens. He is survived by his beloved nephew Sean (Linda) Stephens and great-uncle of Mitchell, Jack and Brady. All Funeral services are private. For info, Elmhurst Community Funeral Home – The Ahlgrim Chapel. Call (630) 834-3515 or visit ElmhurstFH.com.

Gregory Albin Stall, 76

Gregory Albin Stall, of Villa Park, passed away recently at the age of 76. He was a U.S. Navy veteran, a retired employee of Ford Motor Company, a former member of the Elmhurst Artists Guild and the DuPage Art League, and a beneficiary member of Trinity Services. Beloved brother

of Vivian, William (Annemarie) and Edith (the late James) Skibinski; loving uncle of Eric (Tyra) and Andrew (Jenni Horst) Stall and Scott (Brittanya) Skibinski and greatuncle of Shelby and Zachary Stall and Jayden Skibinski; cherished son of the late Emily M, nee Retis, and the late Albin J. Stall; dear nephew and cousin of many. Visitation will be held Saturday, April 15, from 8 a.m. until time of prayers 9:30 a.m. at Gibbons Funeral Home, Elmhurst. Mass of Christian Burial 10 a.m. at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, 134 Arthur Street. Interment Private. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Trinity Services, 301 Veterans Parkway, New Lenox, Ill., 60451. For funeral information please call 630-832-0018 or www. gibbonsfuneralhome.com.

Robert (Bob)

Van Zandbergen, 98 Robert (Bob) Van Zandbergen passed away peacefully on April 5, 2023, in Elmhurst at the age of 98. He is survived by his four children, Sue (Jack) Bellizzi, Judy (Jim) Young, Gary (Cheryl) Van Zandbergen, Terri (Joe) Scatchell; ten grandchildren, Chris, Carrie, David, Jeff, Eric, Tracy, Katie, Christina, Michael, and Matthew, as well as seven great grandchildren. He was predeceased by an eighth great grandchild and, by his beloved wife, Dorothy (nee Benson). Bob was born on August 26, 1924, in La Crosse, Wisc. At a young age, his family resettled in Rock Island. During WWII, he served in the United States Navy as a Radioman on the USS Yorktown. After the war ended, he returned to Rock Island and married Dorothy. He attended the University of Illinois in Champaign and graduated in 1950 with a BS in Mechanical Engineering. The family moved from Rock Island to Elmhurst in 1955. Bob retired from Vapor Corporation in 1987 after a career in Manufacturing Engineering. Along with being a hard-working and devoted husband and father, he was a Life Member and active volunteer at the American Legion in Elmhurst. He and Dorothy were some of the first residents of Park Place in Elmhurst, where Bob resided until his death. An interment with Military Honors will take place at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery in Elwood, at a future date.

To receive one, the individual must provide their U.S. immigration documentation or, if they don’t have that, a passport or consular card. They must also prove they have automobile insurance.

According to the secretary of state’s office, more than 300,000 people currently have a TVDL. Under the bill, these would remain valid driver’s licenses but the secretary of state would no longer issue new ones.

While the TVDL is valid as a driver’s license, it was never valid as identification. The card contains a purple line with the letters “TVDL,” and the phrase “Not Valid for Identification.”

That’s something immigrant rights activists said makes it difficult for the cardholder to do anything from pick up a prescription to buy alcohol. Rep. Angelica Guerrero-Cuellar, D-Chicago, said in floor debate that some businesses decline to accept the TVDL as identification even when paired with identification from the individual’s native country.

Applicants for a standard driver’s license would be required to follow the same process as applying for a TVDL, but the license they receive would be the same as one issued to any other Illinoisan whose ID does not comply with federal REAL ID guidelines.

REAL ID requirements are scheduled to go into effect in Illinois in May 2025, and they require stricter identification such as a birth certificate and social security number to obtain one. The IDs are used for purposes such as air travel and visiting military bases and secure federal facilities.

Standard licenses contain the words “Federal Limits Apply,” but they are otherwise valid as both a

driver’s license and ID card.

The measure, House Bill 3882, has support from Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias.

“This legislation will make our roads safer and protects immigrants who are legally able to drive,” Giannoulias said in a statement. “As with all drivers, immigrants who drive in Illinois must prove they are safe, capable motorists in order to earn the standard driver’s license.”

The legislation’s backers say it was motivated by the fact that those carrying a TVDL sometimes face discrimination because of the purple bar on the card. Rep. Barbara Hernandez, D-Aurora, is the lead sponsor of HB 3882.

“My parents were undocumented for 21 years,” she said. “…My parents would have wished years ago that they could have a driver license. Today we’re updating those driver licenses to turn them more standardized, to stop discrimination.”

Rep. C.D. Davidsmeyer, R-Jacksonville, characterized the bill as an attempt to “hide” a person’s status.

“I think the reality is we’re trying to turn undocumented individuals into documented individuals,” he said.

“We have individuals who have come here outside of the legal process, and I know the legal process is broken. So why don’t we work on encouraging the federal government to actually do something to fix a broken system, instead of hiding the fact that it’s broken.”

Rep Elizabeth “Lisa” Hernandez, D-Cicero, noted that the TVDL is not only granted to individuals without legal residency status but also “those who are here legally from a foreign country temporarily.”

“The premise behind the temporary driver’s license was to allow

Do some savings self-care. Bundle

individuals who are undocumented to be able to drive the road safely so that they can take their kids to school, so they can go to the grocery store, so they can go to work,” she said. “Unfortunately, over time, the purple ID has been viewed and recognized as a driver’s license for the undocumented which is simply untrue.”

Republican Rep. Dan Caulkins, of Decatur, questioned whether making TVDL holders eligible for a standard license would create a system that’s ripe for voter fraud, since Illinoisans can register on the day of an election with a license and other identification.

Henry Haupt, a spokesperson for Giannoulias, said safeguards would remain in place to prevent ineligible individuals from being registered to vote. Under the current registration process, he said, a registrar “should never rely on a driver’s license as proof of citizenship.”

He noted anyone registering to vote must attest to their citizenship.

“While election officials ask to see identification when an applicant registers to vote, it is for the purpose of identifying the applicant, not proof of citizenship,” he said in an email. “The voter application form completed by the applicant requires the applicant to swear or affirm U.S citizenship.”

Haupt said the automatic voter registration process would not change under the bill.

The bill would also prohibit the use of driver’s license data for immigration enforcement purposes unless immigration agents provide a court-issued warrant, order or subpoena for the information.

TREATING STYES

A stye (or hordeolum) is a painful red bump that forms on the edge of an eyelid. Much like a pimple or acne, it forms when an oil-producing follicle on the eyelash or eyelid becomes clogged, causing infection. External styes are more common and form on the edge of the upper or lower eyelid. Internal styes form inside the eyelid, facing the eyeball. Adults are more prone to styes than children, as are people with certain conditions like dandruff, rosacea, blepharitis, diabetes and high cholesterol. Sometimes a stye can be managed with warm compresses and may clear up on its own in one to two weeks. If it persists longer, it may need to be drained by an eye care specialist. If you have a tendency to get frequent styes, daily eyelid hygiene should be part of your regular cleaning regimen. It should be practiced along with the medical treatment prescribed by your eye care practitioner to alleviate this often chronic problem. When you need to schedule an eye exam, please contact SKOWRON EYE CARE. At Skowron Eye Care, our mission is your vision.

P.S. If you have a stye, refrain from wearing eye makeup and avoid touching it (unless cleaning or applying warm compresses), which can cause bacteria from the infection to spread.

Letters to the editor

Reader urges support of National Healthcare Decisions Day

It is almost National Healthcare Decisions Day on Sunday, April 16, a day focused on educating the public about advance care planning and encouraging people to talk to their family and friends about their end-of-life wishes. On this day, I am reminded that here in Illinois we are not offered the full scope of care options at the end of life.

Currently authorized in 11 jurisdictions, medical aid in dying is reserved for mentally capable, terminally ill adults, who have been given less than six months or less to live. Where available, terminally ill people can request access to medical aid in dying through their physician and self-ingest the medication to peacefully end their suffering. Polling shows that the majority of Americans believe it should be an option, regardless of location, gender, religion, or political affiliation.

Residents of Illinois should be free to choose how they live – and when the time comes, what support they want when they are nearing the end of their life. This private, personal decision should be accessible to all, with the support of someone’s medical team and loved ones.

Lawmakers in Springfield must listen to their constituents and stand up for terminally ill Illinoisans. Please let your representatives know that you support medical aid in dying as an option for those facing a terminal diagnosis.

Nancy Betker Addison

Veremis thanks constituents for support

To the residents of Elmhurst in the First Ward, I am humbled and honored to have been re-elected as your Ward 1 Alderman for the full fouryear term. You have placed your trust in me, and I will continue working hard on everyone’s behalf to keep our community moving forward.

The best part of campaigning is connecting with residents. Having the opportunity to hear your questions and concerns, but most importantly to learn about you and your history in Elmhurst, whether a fouror forty-year resident, is hands down the best part of this experience.

Our values are strong, and so is our sense of community. Together, we can continue to achieve great things and make Elmhurst an even better place to call home.

Thank you to everyone who supported me throughout this campaign

See LETTER, Page 9

Analysis: Report

By Jerry Nowicki CAPITOL NEWS ILLINOIS

While Illinois has recently experienced a prolonged stretch of good financial news, a new state fiscal forecast notes that if spending continues to grow at its recent pace it could lead to future budget deficits.

It would mark the reversal of a recent trend during which the state logged considerable surpluses this fiscal year and the two years prior.

In the highest-spending scenario outlined in the three-year forecast from the Commission on Government Forecasting and Accountability, the state could once again face a bill backlog as high as $18 billion. That estimate assumes spending growth at its five-year average of 7.1 percent.

“This example shows that spending patterns seen in the past few years cannot continue without a comparable increase in revenues which is not seen in the commission’s current estimates,” the report from the legislature’s nonpartisan forecasting commission noted.

If the state keeps spending growth at 1.8 percent—the most austere scenario outlined by the commission—it could maintain an accounts payable balance of $1.4 billion, the same as it was at the end of Fiscal Year 2022.

Even in that scenario, state spending would outpace revenues in the upcoming Fiscal Year 2024 that begins July 1—although Gov. JB Pritzker has proposed decreasing state spending in FY 24.

His $49.6 billion proposed spending plan for FY 24 represents a 0.7 percent decrease from the baseline number assumed in the COGFA forecast. Law-

makers, however, are still working on crafting a final budget before their May 19 adjournment.

“We have to pass a balanced budget … Illinois has had a past where, you know, for a few years anyway, that didn’t happen,” Pritzker said at a news conference. “... And I think the General Assembly has taken that very seriously.”

While the new report illustrated that lawmakers may have to tighten their belts in the coming years, it remained consistent with previous projections by the commission and other forecasters that have suggested an economic slowdown is on the horizon.

The COGFA report noted that over the past five years, state revenues have grown at a rate of 12 percent on average, compared to the 7.1 percent average expenditure growth.

Pandemic-era federal stimulus funds have mostly dried up, however, and their effect on the nation’s economy is beginning to wane. Many economic forecasts anticipate a mild recession is on its way.

The slowdown was evidenced in COGFA’s March revenue update that was published this week, showing that revenues declined $563 million from the same month last year. It marked the first year-over-year decline for any month this year, but COGFA noted the drop was expected after a record March 2022.

In other words, revenue growth rates of 18 percent and 12 percent that were seen in fiscal years 2021 and 2022 are not likely to be repeated anytime soon.

COGFA anticipates revenues will shrink by 1.4 percent to $50.4 billion

spending

in the upcoming FY 24 and remain under current-year levels until FY 2026, when they jump 2.5 percent to $52.2 billion.

As for spending, one important caveat is that the growth of the past two years been at least partially driven by measures that COGFA described as “fiscal discipline.” That includes debt retirement, increased pension payments and long-term savings.

It has also included temporary tax relief and other one-time expenditures that won’t carry over from one fiscal year to the next.

But spending across human services, education and other agencies has also grown.

“Current forecasts would allow for more of this kind of spending in the short-term,” COGFA wrote in the report. “However, longer-term, economic and tax revenue forecasts remain murky as the potential for a recession remains.”

The three-year report also analyzed threats to the state’s fiscal position, including the potential recession, a COVID-19 resurgence, population loss and pension debt among others.

Many of the threats, the report noted, “can be directly linked” to “a longterm trend of having expenditures being higher than revenues.” It also noted that “work still remains” for the state to achieve a “budgetary system that is more stable in the long-term.”

“An opportunity exists to improve the state’s financial situation by better aligning the revenues and expenditures of the state. This can be done by raising revenues, cutting spending, or some combination of both,” the report noted.

Illinois could also achieve stability by broadening its sales tax to include more services.

“The Illinois sales tax was originally developed in the 1930s when the economy was much more reliant on goods production,” the report noted. “By taxing services, the tax system would modernize to more accurately reflect the economy of 2023.”

The revenues resulting from a service tax could be used to offset a portion of the sales tax on goods and “allow for the overall tax rate to be lowered,” according to the report.

The state could also save money by reducing statutory interest payments on overdue bills and using current-year surpluses for “paying down debt, investing for future growth, reducing taxes, and/or returning money to taxpayers.”

But on the whole, the report noted, “After the budget stalemate that occurred from 2015-2017, the state’s financial position has been getting better each year.”

That two-year impasse between Republican Gov. Bruce Rauner and Democrats in the General Assembly drove the state’s bill backlog to nearly $17 billion and caused crippling cuts across state agencies.

The report’s final piece of advice: “The State needs to continue to show fiscal discipline and demonstrate that the results of the past few years are not an anomaly.”

Jerry Nowicki is the bureau Chief of Capitol News Illinois, a nonprofit, nonpartisan news service covering state government that is distributed to hundreds of news outlets statewide.

suggests state

will soon begin outpacing revenues once again

Three-year forecast projects revenue decline followed by slow growth

Advocates push for tax credit aimed at increasing affordable housing Would cost state $35 million annually for 10 years

By Nika Schoonover

CAPITOL NEWS ILLINOIS

Lawmakers are considering bills that would create a new tax credit for affordable housing, referred to as the “Build Illinois Homes Tax Credit.”

The legislation, contained in the identical House Bill 2044 and Senate Bill 1737, would mirror a federal program administered by the Illinois Housing Development Authority and Chicago Department of Housing which helps finance affordable housing across Illinois.

The Illinois Housing Council, a non-profit membership association consisting of over 260 businesses and non-profits, has been advocating for the measure’s passage.

“Our state is facing an affordable housing crisis, stemming from years of housing under-production,” Allison Clements, executive director of IHC, testified in a Senate committee. “Our state’s housing deficit has grown 64 percent since 2012, meaning we have more people needing homes than are available.”

A 2023 IHC report showed Illinois still has a deficit of low-income housing despite the federal program. According to the report, Illinois has lost 13 percent of its low-rent units since

2011. Additionally, while there are more than 450,000 extremely low-income renters in Illinois, there are only about 150,000 affordable and available rental units, creating a deficit of about 288,000.

“The dollars have actually filled a critical need but they are only a shortterm solution to build affordable housing in Illinois,” Rep. Dagmara Avelar, a Democrat from Bolingbrook and lead sponsor on HB 2044, said in a House committee hearing March 23.

“The long-term, permanent solution is a state tax credit, the Build Illinois Homes Tax Credit that can sustain affordable housing construction over the next 10 years.”

If passed, the Build Illinois credit would cost the state $35 million annually for 10 years, which advocates say would help increase the number of housing units by 3,500 each year.

Once investors construct the housing developments, they would be eligible for an income tax credit based on the development area.

Clements emphasized that the state tax credit would only be issued after the construction of a unit is complete and qualified tenants are moved in.

“Private sector investors, not taxpayers, are going to bear the financial

risk of a project not being completed or successful and they closely monitor and oversee each development where these credits are involved,” Clements said in the House committee. “Because the state tax credit is not claimed by an investor until the affordable housing is successfully built and completed, passing this state tax credit this year would not result in any budget impacts to the state until 2026.”

A well-deserved hug

First Ward Alderman Jennifer Veremis gets a big hug and kiss from her husband Joe on Election night after winning her race. “There are no empty surfaces in our entire house,” quipped Joe, noting how hard Jennifer had been working.

• Letter

(Continued from page 8)

- your trust, hard work, and commitment to our community made this victory possible. I will continue to lead with integrity, listen to the concerns of Ward 1 residents, conduct thorough due diligence on the most vital issues of our Ward and Elmhurst, and make the best informed decisions asked of our City Council to keep Elmhurst vibrant and moving

forward.

It is a privilege and honor to represent you.

Now let’s get to work and do great things for Elmhurst!! Please follow my Facebook page @Veremis4elmhurst.

With sincere gratitude, Jennifer Veremis

Elmhurst Ward 1 Alderman

According to the IHC report, over 20 states currently use tax credits to attract private equity for building more affordable housing. Lawmakers in Kentucky and Ohio are also considering measures to enact such programs.

Gov. JB Pritzker proposed additional funds for housing in his budget address. The program, referred to as “Home Illinois,” would provide for a $50 million increase in homelessness

services, including for emergency shelter, short-term rental assistance and the development of new permanent supportive housing units. If implemented, “Home Illinois” would bring the total funding in that area to $350 million. In his budget address on Feb. 15, the governor estimated over 120,000 people experience homelessness annually and over 76,000 children live in overcrowded shared housing.

DEE LONGFELLOW PHOTO Elmhurst Independent

Can’t-miss events throughout DuPage County

Editor’s note: Our next DuPage Destinations section will be published Thursday, April 27. If you have information on an event in DuPage County taking place after April 27 that you would like us to consider listing here, please email that information to: news1@rvpublishing.com

Saturday, April 15

1980s Dance Party, Willowbrook

From 9 p.m.-midnight at Dell Rhea’s Chicken Basket, 645 Joliet Road, bust a move and enjoy a full bar and limited food menus! Dress in your best ’80s gear and win $100 cash prize for best outfit. Reservations recommended. For more information, visit: https://chickenbasket. com/

Super Hero Fun Run, Wheaton

Starting at 8:30 a.m. at the Wheaton Park District, 102 E. Wesley St., The Super Hero 5K Fun Run is an untimed race through downtown

Wheaton featuring superhero costume-clad runners. The event starts at Main Street and Seminary Avenue. Runners may either run in the in-person race or opt for a virtual race. The race is open to children and adults. Registration fees are $35 to $45. For more information, visit: https://wheatonparkdistrict.com/events/ funrun

Saturday, April 15 and Sunday, April 16

Nature Artists’ Guild Spring Art Exhibit, Lisle

From 10 a.m.-4 p.m. each day at the Morton Arboretum, 4100 Route 53, the Arboretum’s Nature Artists’ Guild is hosting its juried Spring Art Exhibit both days in the Cudahy Room (Administration and Research Center, near the Visitor Center). Many art pieces—all produced by local artists—will be available for purchase. For more information, visit: https:// mortonarb.org/explore/activities/adult-pro -

The Moreci Family Invites You to Experience

grams/nature-artists-guild-spring-art-exhibit

Sunday, April 16

Community music program: Michael Miles, Oak Brook

From 2-3 p.m. at the Lizzadro Museum of Lapidary Art, 1220 Kensington Road, Miles will share some stories of the American banjo, its complex history, and wide array of sounds and styles. He will be joined by cellist Jill Kaeding to perform his latest compositions and renderings of J. S. Bach. There is limited capacity; reservations are required. Tickets are $10 for adults, $8 for seniors and $5 per child/ student. For more information and to register, visit: www.lizzadromuseum.org

Spring Maker’s Market, Downers Grove

From noon-4 p.m. at Alter Brewing Company, 2300 Wisconsin Ave., The Maker’s Market returns with an exciting and varied group of vendors coming out to entice you with their amazing artisan wares. It’s the perfect time to get early shopping done for Mother’s Day. For more information, visit: www.alterbrewing. com/events

Swing into Spring, Lombard

From 1-4 p.m. at the Lombard Golf Course, 2400 W. Butterfield Road, celebrate the arrival of spring with the staff of the Lombard Golf Course. Enjoy an open house with contests, prizes, putting green, specials, giveaways and more. For those interested in golfing, regular green fees apply. For more information, visit: https://lombardparks.com/swing-into-spring

Thursday, April 20

Sip and Shop, Glen Ellyn

From 5-8 p.m. in downtown Glen Ellyn, when you buy your ticket, you will choose where you want to start your night. This is only the first stop for the evening. Buy tickets with your friends if you want to begin the night together. Then head there to register and receive your program and wristband for the evening. You will receive three total drinks for the evening, as well as small bites throughout the shops. Check in at your first store (identified on your ticket) any time after 5 p.m. The rest of the evening is up to you. Tickets are $15 per person. For more information, visit: www. tickettailor.com/events/allianceofdowntownglenellyn/856657

The Challenge: Trivia Quiz Game, Addison

From 7-8:30 p.m., presented by the Forest Preserve District of DuPage County at the Preserve at Oak Meadows, 900 N. Wood Dale Road, challenge your friends and neighbors, and show off your knowledge as you compete for prizes during this friendly quiz game featuring categories to test your familiarity with music, animals, geography, history, and more. Register as a team of up to five, or have our quiz masters help you find a team. For ages 18-andup. Price: $5 per person. For more information, visit: www.dupageforest.org/things-to-do/cal-

endar-of-events?trumbaEmbed=view%3Devent%26eventid%3D165550711

Friday, April 21

Earth Day Play Date, Wheaton

From 10-11:30 a.m. at the Wheaton Park District, 1000 W. Lincoln Ave., celebrate Earth Day with a nature play date at Lincoln Marsh. Enjoy activities and open play at the Prairie Patch Play Area then stay afterwards for a picnic lunch. The program is held entirely outdoors; dress appropriately. The event is free, but spots need to be reserved. For more information, visit: www.eventbrite.com/e/earthday-play-date-tickets-529384231487

Saturday, April 22

Champion Trees 10K, Lisle

Starting at 8 a.m. at the Morton Arboretum, 4100 Route 53, spend a beautiful spring morning running or walking through one of the most picturesque 10K courses in Chicago. You’ll experience a unique course with rolling terrain along the Arboretum’s east side as you glide past trees from around the world, just as they’re starting to bloom for spring. Your ticket purchase helps support the Arboretum’s mission to plant and protect trees for a greener, healthier, and more beautiful world. For more information, visit: https://mortonarb.org/explore/activities/events/champion-trees-10k Earth Day Festival, Lemont

Starting at 10 a.m. at The Forge: Lemont Quarries, 1001 Main St., join The Forge for a fun and fulfilling festival to celebrate our amazing planet and discover small ways to make a big impact. The lineup includes a huga-tree nature trail, vendor village, activities for kids, workshops for all ages, conservation projects, live entertainment, food trucks, additional donation-required activities (fun run and fishing derbies), and much more. This event is free; however, a $5 donation per person is encouraged. For more information, visit: www. theforge.gives/earthday

Tuesdays, April 25, May 9 and May 23

Joe Naper’s Discovery Play, Naperville

From 10:30 a.m.-noon at the Naper Settlement Outdoor History Museum, 523 S. Webster St., children ages 3-5 and their adults are invited to each session, which engages curious pre-school aged children through social engagement and learning. Naper Settlement’s learning experiences team will guide children and their caregivers through fun activities and explorations. Pre-registration is required to attend; this is not a drop-off program. Admission: $15 per child; $12 per adult. Free for Naper Settlement members and/or an adult resident of Naperville. For more information, visit: https://napersettlement.org/Calendar. aspx?EID=3442&month=4&year=2023&day=25&calType=0

See EVENTS, Page 11

April 13, 2023 - The Elmhurst Independent

Music@Bethel presents ‘Rising Star’ pianist Zarin Mehta

Bethel United Church of Christ will host one of its Rising Star Concerts to showcase up-andcoming musical talent. On Sunday, April 30 at 3 p.m., Music@Bethel welcomes 15 -year-old pianist Zarin

Mehta, who will bring his virtuosity and musical passion in a program featuring the following selections: Bach - Prelude and Fugue in A-flat major; Mozart- Sonata in D major, K 311; Chopin - Nocturne in

F-sharp minor, Op. 48, No 2; LisztTranscendental Étude No. 7 in E-flat major “Eroica”; Ravel - La valse; Scriabin - Sonata No 4 in F-sharp major, Op. 30; and Carl Vine’s Piano Sonata No. 1.

Donna Pope POP UP GALLERY

Mehta recently won the prestigious MTNA (Music Teachers National Association) National Senior Piano Performance Competition, the 2023 DePaul University Concerto Festival, was a 2023 YoungArts winner (semifinalist), and placed second in the International Young Artist Concerto Competition. He has been studying piano for 11 years at Chicago-based New Music School, and for the past 10 years has been a student of Winston Choi and Jeffrey Panko.

In addition to teaching piano at New Music School, Jeffrey Panko serves as minister of music at Bethel, and has been the artistic director of the Music at Bethel concert series since its 1999 inception. He is a frequent soloist and collaborator.

“One of the most gratifying experiences of my professional life as a musician has been teaching Zarin Mehta, a truly brilliant mind, pianist, musician, composer and most importantly a wonderful young man,” Panko said. “His playing is breathtaking and his performance will be of the highest musical standard.”

A wine reception will follow the concert.

Bethel United Church of Christ is located at 315 East St. Charles Road in Elmhurst. For more information, please call 630-279-4040. Tickets are available on Eventbrite or at the door. All tickets are $20 and students are free.

SUBMITTED PHOTO Elmhurst Independent Zarin Mehta

Cast announced for Greenman Theatre’s comedy production of ‘Love and Tear Gas’

A trio of cast members has been selected for Greenman Theatre Troupe’s upcoming production of “Love and Tear Gas,” to be premiered May 5 –21, 2023.

“I’m thrilled to be working with these three talented Chicago-area actors, and to be the first to bring playwright Ken Levine’s uproariously funny comedy to the stage,” said Craig Gustafson, production director.

“Love and Tear Gas” is a comedy taking place in Los Angeles in 1969 amidst rioting and Hollywood glamor. Movie star Kim Carlisle hooks up with political activist Walter Arbogast and moves from her deluxe Bel Air mansion to his shabby, dangerous house. Their relationship gets a bit rocky when Kim tries to reconcile her old life with her new one, with the assistance of handyman Larry. When Wal-

ter says, “Oh, by the way, I thought a baby would help our relationship,” and hands her a newly-adopted baby, the audience wonders if Kim will survive her new life.

Kim, the glamorous young movie star, will be played by Chicago actor Annie Murtha, playing a performer who is willing to risk her career to learn how to help people. Actor Joe Gomez will perform the role of Walter,

ICGS students bound for state science fair

ICGS 7th graders hosted a science fair in Jan., where 50 students created exhibits and experiments to be judged by local judges. Ten ICGS 7th graders were selected from the ICGS Science Fair to compete in the Regional Science Fair, held at St. Francis University in Joliet on Friday, March 10. Every single ICGS attendee earned an award at the Regional Science Fair. Seven gold medals, two silver ribbons and one bronze ribbon were awarded to the ICGS students and five students have been invited to compete in the Illinois State Science Fair at SIU-Carbondale on April 28 and 29.

a young man who is a sincere, smart, generous, and dedicated activist. As the voice of reason and a dedicated smart mouth, who also knows a surprising secret, Larry will be played by Jay Battles. Emmy award-winning writer and playwright Ken Levine worked on the popular TV shows “Cheers,” “Frasier,” “M*A*S*H,” and “The Simpsons.” His plays are riotously funny while showing a depth of human awareness.

Production director Gustafson won the 2022 Broadway World – Chicago Best Director Award for his production of Levine’s “Upfronts and Personal.” More information and tickets will be available at GreenMan’s web site at greenmantheatre.org or by calling 630-464-2646. Performances of “Love and Tear Gas” will be Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m. from May 5 -21.

University’s Psychology Club holds food drive

Nicoletta Boik, vice president of the Elmhurst University Psychology Club, is pictured here with York Township Supervisor John Valle on Friday, March 24, when six boxes of food, toiletries and paper products were delivered to the York Township Food Pantry. Boik organized a month-long food drive with fellow club members as a way to give back to the local community. Items collected were donated by students and faculty members from Elmhurst University.

SUBMITTED PHOTO Elmhurst Independent

SUBMITTED PHOTO Elmhurst Independent

Community calendar

Pick of the Week: Tuesday, April 18 Preview of upcoming public art installation

From 7-8 p.m., in anticipation of the upcoming public art installation in conjunction with Art in Wilder Park (May 6-7), there will be a special preview talk about the effort that is co-presented by the Elmhurst Art Museum and the Elmhurst Public Library in partnership with the Elmhurst Park District.

Sunday, April 16

At 2 p.m., the Elmhurst History Museum, 120 E. Park Ave., will present “Yellow Peril: Understanding Asian America through Storytelling.” Experience a mix of intimate personal storytelling and mini presentations linking the past and the present of Asian American experiences. Dr. Ada Cheng weaves personal stories to highlight the myth of the model minority, the perpetual foreigner image, “othering” via micro-aggressions and the negative impact of stereotypes on Asian Americans under the global pandemic. Supported by an Illinois Humanities Road Scholars grant. Program takes place in the Education Center. Admission: $5, free to members. Reser-

vations required at elmhursthistory. org.

Tuesday, April 18

At 4 p.m., Elmhurst University welcomes author Joseph Vukov, associate professor of philosophy at Loyola University Chicago, who will present this year’s Niebuhr Lecture, entitled “Humanizing Enhancement” in the Schaible Science Center, Illinois Hall, on the campus of Elmhurst University. Admission is free and all are welcome.

Thursday, April 20

• From 6-8 p.m., there will be a College Fair held at Addison Trail High School. Representatives from nearly 80 colleges and universities

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who have sent a donation to help underwrite The Elmhurst Independent. For those of you who haven’t done so in the past year, but enjoy this newspaper and would like to help us pay for its operation, please send a donation in any amount to:

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are expected to be there. Free admission. All high school students welcome.

• At 7 p.m, former Illinois Congressman Adam Kinzinger will deliver the Rudolf G. Schade lecture on History, Ethics and Law at Hammerschmidt Chapel on the campus of Elmhurst University. With him in conversation will be POLITICO reporter Shia Kapos. Admission: $15; free for Elmhurst University students, faculty, staff and alumni. Tickets available at elmhurst.edu/cultural.

Sunday, April 23

At 3 p.m., the Elmhurst Symphony Orchestra will present a program of French chamber music at the Union Church of Hinsdale, located at 137 So. Garfield St. in Hinsdale. Among the performers, ESO Conductor Dr. Stephen Alltop, who will play the organ and piano. Visit elmhurstsymphony.org for tickets and more information.

Sunday, April 30

• At 2 p.m., the Elmhurst History Museum, 120 E. Park Ave., will present “D.P.A. Healy: Prodigious Painter of Cottage Hill.” Enjoy a special lecture by museum staff in the “By All Accounts” exhibit gallery that sheds light on one of the museum’s newest acquisitions: a portrait of Jane Byrd Bryan by renowned 19th-century painter G.P.A. Healy. Curator of exhibits Sarah Cox will explain the history of portrait painting and the early years of Healy’s career, while curator of collections Dan Lund will detail the significance of the painting to the history of Elmhurst. Admission: $5, free to members. Reservations required at elmhursthistory.org.

• At 3 p.m., Music@Bethel presents 15-year-old pianist Zarin Mehta as one of its “Rising Star Concerts” to introduce an up-and-coming musical talent. Bethel United Church of Christ is located at 315 E. St. Charles

Rd. and has ample parking. Tickets are $20 per person available at Eventbrite or at the door. Students attend free. For more information, call 630-279-4040.

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 630833-1457.

Elmhurst Art Museum

The Museum is preparing for Art in Wilder Park, which will feature an outdoor art installation, featuring the art and characters of Marvel Comics. In the future, Marvelocity; The Art of Alex Ross opens Saturday, June 3; Inspired by Warhol begins Saturday, June 11; and, Picasso: Fifty Years Later goes public, beginning Saturday, Sept. 9. For details and info, visit elmhurstartmuseum.org or call 630-834-0202.

Lizzadro Museum of Lapidary Art

Now through Sunday, June 18, Inspiration Fabergé – Gemstone Carving is on exhibit featuring carvings of animals, figures and flowers arve in Germany and Russia. The exhibit reflects the style of Fabergé design that dates back to the late 19th century gem cutting traditions that continue to this day. Regular museum admission and hours apply. Info: lizzadro-

museum.org.

Sunday, April 16

At 2 p.m., Lizzadro presents a 60-minute community music program featuring Michael Miles, who will share stories of the American banjo, its history, its wide array of sounds and styles. He will be joined by cellist Jill Kaeding to perform his latest compositions and rendering of J.S. Bach. Recommended for ages 10 to adult. Limited capacity, reservations required. Regular Museum admission applies. To register, visit lizzadromuseum.org.

Saturday, April 22

• Beginning at 10:30 a.m., geologist Sara Kurth teaches the techniques of rock and mineral identification in a 75-minute program for ages 8 years and older. Admission $10 per person. Limited capacity. Reservations required, register at lizzadromuseum.org. This class completes the earth science badges for Cub and Boy Scouts.

• At 1:30 p.m., children are invited to make their own gemstone jewelry at ‘Rockin’ Jewelry for Kids.’ Learn to make a necklace, a keychain and a pin. All materials included in individual kits. After class, tour the museum and take part in a scavenger hunt. Completes the jewelry badge for Girl Scouts. Fee: $15 per person includes the jewelry kit. Limited capacity. Reservations required, register at lizzadromuseum.org.

Saturday, April 29

Beginning at 1 p.m., the West Suburban Lapidary Club will meet at the Museum. For those interested in the lapidary arts, learn more at a WSLC meetings. Each month, there is a club meeting at 1 p.m. then a 60-minute program beginning at 2 p.m. Teens to adults welcome. Regular museum admission. Register at lizzadromuseum.org.

Elmhurst Public Library programs

Friday, April 14 from 2-4 p.m. Friday Features: 5000 Blankets

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

Saturday, April 15 from 10 a.m.-12 p.m. Canasta

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

Monday, April 17 from 10 a.m.-12 p.m. Resume + Cover Letter Review

Meet with a job coach to review your resume and cover letter and receive tips. Presented with People’s Resource Center. Live in-person. Registration required.

Monday, April 17 from 7-8:30 p.m. Ciao Italia!

Improve your Italian language skills while exploring a different aspect of Italian culture each month. All skill levels welcome. Live in-per-

son and virtually on Zoom. Register to receive the information to join.

Tuesday, April 18 from 1-3 p.m. Bridge and Pinochle Club

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

Tuesday, April 18 from 2-3 p.m. Coloring for Mindfulness

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

Tuesday, April 18 from 7-8 p.m. Superheroes in Wilder Park: A Special Preview

Superheroes will soon assemble in Wilder Park! Preview this exciting outdoor art installation before it is unveiled at Art in Wilder Park (May 6 and 7). Get an early sneak peek into the artists’ work and creation process, plus learn what else the Elmhurst Art Museum has in store for spring and summer. Presented by the Elmhurst Art Museum in partnership with the Elmhurst Park District. Live

in-person. Registration required.

Wednesday, April 19 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, April 19 from 2-3 p.m.

Bingo

Join us for a few rounds of Bingo and compete for prizes! Live in-person. Registration required.

Thursday, April 20 from 10:30-11:30 a.m.

Genealogy Club: Immigration Records

Genealogist Laura Street Chaplin takes us on a deep-dive into immigration record searches. In this hands-on workshop, participants practice using several of the best immigration record search engines and look at the wealth of information these records can provide. Hybrid event.

Sport S

York boys track teams racks up indoor accolades Dukes record numerous notable times; Sophomore team wins WSC Silver title

By Mike Miazga CORRESPONDENT

The York boys track team logged plenty of highlights during the recently completed indoor season, accomplishments it hopes will be a beacon of things to come this spring.

At the West Suburban Conference Silver Division championship, Aidan Hill won the 800 conference title with a time of 1:57.55 and took second in the 600 dash. Gavin Schaer took second in the high jump and pole vault, while Joey Valeski was third in the 400 and also competed in the 200 dash. Andrew Villard took fifth in the long jump, while Payton Bryk was fifth in the 600.

York’s sophomore team won the WSC Silver indoor title. Danny Karnatz won the triple jump and 400 dash conference titles and took second in the 200. Max Zangan won the 800 and 1,600 conference titles. Luke DeSimone won the 55 high hurdles title and took second in the 55 low hurdles. Sean Geetis took second in the 55 high hurdles and won the 55 low hurdles. Zach Saltiel was third in the 3,200 run. Bruno Massel was fourth in the 55 dash, while Sam Ke-

hoe was fifth in the 600. York’s 3,200 relay team of Kehoe, Josh Tobin, Evan Zapata and Zangan won the conference title.

The Dukes won the 16-team Stan Reddel invitational at home. Hill won the 800, while the 800 relay team of Leo Glennon, Cash Langley, Luke Mailander and Kelly Watson also won a conference title. The 1,600 team of Watson, Joey Valeski, Hill and Payton Noble also was victorious.

York also competed in the Proviso West invitational where both the varsity and sophomore teams took third out of 16 teams. Varsity winners included Hill in the 600 and the 800 and 1,600 relays. York’s 800 relay team of Langley, Noble, Valeski and Mailander broke the school record and ran the second-fastest indoor time in the state this year at 1:30.40. The old school record was 1:31.17. The 1,600 relay team of Valeski, Noble, Hill and Karnatz ran 3:28.18 and clocked the fourth-fastest time indoors this year in the state. Hill logged the third-fastest time indoor in the state in the 600.

York coach Charlie Kern lauded

Dukes football coach Mike Fitzgerald for helping bolster the track and field roster. “For the past three years there has been excellent support for the track team from coach Fitzgerald,” Kern said. “He believes in the benefits of competing on the track team in the spring. As a result of speed improvements in the first football athletes to run track — Kelly Watson, Luke Mailander and Matthew Vezza — other football players see the benefits of running track. The infusion of athletes into our program has been so exciting. The sophomore track team in particular contains many football players who are getting faster and are contributing to team success in the sprints and field events. The entire staff is excited about their growth over the next two years.”

Kern said York is positioned quite well with its relays heading into the spring season. “We have an excellent sprint crew and are confident we can have state-qualifying time in all three spring relays — 4-by-100, 4-by-200 and 4-by-400,” he said. “We have an outside chance of making the 4-by800 relay.” Short sprints also are in

good hands with Langley, Watson and Mailander. “Cash, Kelly and Luke all look really good,” Kern noted.

In the longer 200/400 sprints, Valeski, Noble and Karnatz also have been excelling, Kern added. In the hurdle events, Greetis, a sophomore, and Avi Shah, a junior, who were the 1-2 finishers in the 2022 sophomore conference meet, are back “and looking to break into varsity competition,” Kern said.

They are joined by senior Ryan Pittman and sophomore DeSimone, and new to the event is Noble, a senior. “Payton brings tremendous speed and competitiveness to the event,” Kern said. “If he can become a proficient hurdler, he can qualify for state.”

Hill leads the way in the distance events after a state-qualifying junior season. “Aidan has already bettered the state-qualifying standard indoors and will be looking to qualify for the state finals in the 800 run,” Kern said.

Senior Danny O’Shaughnessy is another candidate, Kern noted, to make it to state. “Danny’s success

in the 800 and 1,600 might earn him an individual qualifying time for the state meet,” he said.

The field event roster also is loaded with talent with Schaer, a junior, labeled “a wonderful surprise” by Kern. “Gavin has already exceeded the state standard for pole vault and has cleared 14-feet,” Kern explained. “He has also equaled the state-qualifying height in the high jump (6-3).” Noble has also cleared state-qualifying height in the high jump and will also compete in discus. Karnatz and senior Jack Beckman have been the team’s varsity entries in the long jump. Seniors Andrew Villard and Alex Stone, Kern added, have improved in the long jump and are potential outdoor conference scorers. Junior Cole Ostendorf has been leading the way with the shot-put group. “We are looking forward to the opportunities to compete against some of the best athletes and teams in Illinois to help our athletes continue to improve,” Kern said. York heads to Downers Grove South Saturday to open the 2023 outdoor season with an eight-team invitational with varsity and sophomore competition.

IC Catholic Prep track teams ready for outdoor season Falduto, Vander Wal make 20-team USA Volleyball Pan American Cup roster

By Mike Miazga CORRESPONDENT

The IC Catholic Prep boys track team will have an interesting storyline to follow this spring. The Knights return senior high jumper and long jumper AJ Walsh, who qualified for state in the high jump and ended up finishing 12th in Class 1A with a clearance of 6-0 3/4. The good news: Walsh already has cleared 6-6 during the indoor season. This year’s outdoor state-qualifying standard in the high jump in Class 1A is 6-1.

In addition to Walsh, the Knights return juniors Elijah Eason (sprints, relays), Byron Jones (throws, hurdles) and Johnny Velasquez (800), along with Zach Spencer (long jump,

triple jump). Top newcomers to the team include juniors Aidan Rosa (sprint relays), Hayden Posejpal (throws) and Justin Grace (hurdles), along with sophomore Evan Smith (sprints, long jump) and freshmen Billy Grogan (throws), Eben Smith (throws) and Ben VanKoughnet (throws).

“We don’t have our top sprinters returning to track this season as they are participating in other pursuits this spring, so we go with who we have and look to improve every day,” IC Catholic Prep coach Bob Cronin said.

IC Catholic Prep Girls Track

Top returning athletes for the IC

Catholic Prep girls track team include seniors Maren Gibbons (long jump), Kelsey Wojtalawicz (distance) and Hayden James (distance), juniors Mae Bigane (long jump, hurdles, spring relays), Megan VanKoughnet (800, relays) and Caitlin Johnson (800, relays), along with sophomores Kiely Kemph (400, sprint relays) and Lizzie Cook (sprint relays). Key newcomers include sophomore Peyton Schmidt (sprint relays, triple jump) and freshmen Chloe Brandt (spring relays) and Grace Gildea (distance).

“After Carly Manchester’s great career, furthered at Creighton University, we are retooling for our best possible state-qualifying efforts in

our relays,” Cronin said. “Our girls will work hard toward high conference and sectional placement, but we are truly still working on depth and hoping for the best.”

ICCP’s Falduto and Timothy’s Vander Wal Make USA Volleyball Pan American Cup Roster Timothy Christian sophomore volleyball standout Abby Vander Wal and IC Catholic Prep junior star Ava Falduto were two of 20 athletes selected for the 2023 USA Volleyball girls U19 NORCECA Pan American Cup roster. Twelve players from the group will be chosen to compete in the Pan American Cup May 7-15

in Puerto Rico. The team will train April 30-May 6 at the USA Volleyball Anaheim National Team Training Center. University of Minnesota women’s coach Keegan Cook will coach the team. Vander Wal is one of seven new outside hitters on the team. Falduto, committed to Penn State, is one of two liberos on the roster.

USA Volleyball said the roster for the 2023 FIVB girls U9 world championship Aug. 1-11 in Croatia and Hungary will be determined later this year.

On the men’s side, Timothy Christian graduate Kyle Teune, who now plays at Ohio State, is part of the USA Volleyball men’s U21 team.

Timothy Christian baseball team splits conference games with Bishop McNamara

Tober dominates on mound for Trojans with 35 strikeouts in 16 2/3 innings

By Mike Miazga CORRESPONDENT

The Timothy Christian baseball team returned from spring break and split a pair of Metro Suburban Conference games with Bishop McNamara. Timothy lost the first game 3-1 to Bishop McNamara and then won the second game of the series 13-9. The Trojans were 2-8 overall and 1-1 in conference play through late last week.

Earlier, the Trojans lost 9-0 in

nine innings to top-ranked Nazareth Academy in a game that saw pitcher Donald Tober pitch 7 2/3 innings where he allowed two hits and no earned runs, while striking out 12.

Nazareth scored nine runs in the top of the ninth inning.

Timothy also headed to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina over spring break. The Trojans scored a 16-10 win over Berkshire from Ohio in a junior varsity contest. Timothy lost 12-0 to Medina (Ohio) and dropped

a 7-4 contest to Summit Country Day (Cincinnati). Timothy defeated Hawken (Ohio) and lost 10-0 to Paintsville (Kentucky). In the win over Hawken, Jake Armstrong went 2-for-4. Casey Folkerts went 3-for5 in the conference victory against Bishop McNamara.

Through late last week, Armstrong and Folkerts were tied for the team lead with .294 batting averages and 10 hits each. Tober leads the team with an 0.84 ERA and has

fanned an impressive 35 batters in 16 2/3 innings. “Donald Tober has been unhittable on the mound with a fastball that sits in the 90-95 mile-perhour range,” Timothy coach Frank Romano said. “He is a tough matchup for any high school team.”

Romano also has been impressed with Folkerts’ efforts at the plate.

“Casey has an advanced approach and swing mechanics that allow him to be successful at the plate,” he said.

“I expect his numbers only to get bet-

ter.”

Pitching has been a bright spot for Timothy, but Romano would like to see further advancement in lowering the staff’s walk totals. “We can continue to get better at throwing strikes on the mound,” he said. “Walks are the only thing that has been hurting us. If we can eliminate those, we will be a hard team to beat.”

Romano was pleased to see his

See BASEBALL , Page 17

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PUBLISHER’S NOTICE

York girls soccer team starts season 5-0-1

Ewald leading the team with seven goals in first five games

By Mike Miazga CORRESPONDENT

The York girls soccer team has been riding a hot streak out of the gates this spring. Through late last week, the Dukes were 5-0-1 overall and 1-0 in West Suburban Conference Silver Division play. The Dukes opened conference play with a 3-0

win over Oak Park-River Forest. Finley Ewald had two goals, while Michaela Quinn had the other goal. Hannah Meyers had two assists, while Ava Hansman had one assist.

CHRIS FOX PHOTO Elmhurst Independent

U12 baseball action

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

In a 1-0 WSC crossover win against Downers Grove South, Andriana Soupos had the game’s lone goal off an assist from Rylee Adams.

Community Bank

York also scored a recent win over Hersey (2-0) and started the season with a 5-0 win against Bolingbrook and a 5-1 win over Nazareth Academy. York also tied Montini 4-4 in a recent non-conference matchup.

Through the first five games, Ewald was leading York with seven goals and two assists, while Meyers had two goals and a team-high six assists. Quinn had two goals and one assist, while Adams had three assists.

“The team has done a great job at pressing teams as a unit,” York coach Stevan Dobric said. “We are putting

teams in difficult situations and that has led to goals and opportunities for us to win games.”

Dobric also has been pleased with the recent play of senior goalie Daly Wangler, senior center back Abby DeMichele and junior center back Mia Barton. “The goalie and center-back pairing has done an excellent job at limiting opportunities for other teams,” Dobric said. Through the first five games, York allowed only one goal.

Conversely, York scored 20 goals in the first six games. “The team is al-

ways pushing each other to get better every day in training,” Dobric said. “Regardless of the activity or focus of training, everyone always works hard to keep growing in all aspects of the game as the season progresses.”

York returned to action earlier this week for a WSC Silver game against Glenbard West. The Dukes next game is Tuesday, April 18 at South Elgin (non-conference). The Dukes then start play in a tournament on Thursday, April 20 against Naperville Central.

Timothy Christian girls soccer team wins first five games

Trojans have outscored opponents 28-1

By Mike Miazga CORRESPONDENT

Drye and Martens each had a goal, while Huizenga had two assists. Norman made five saves in goal to earn the shutout. In a 5-0 win over Chicago Hope Academy, Maddie Drye had three goals, while Tornabene had two goals. Sami Drye had three assists, while Huizenga had two assists.

ty in our attack.”

Ewald scored two goals to help the Dukes girls soccer team record a 3-0 West Suburban Conference Silver Division win over Oak Park-River Forest. Through the team’s first five games, Ewald was leading York in scoring with seven goals and two assists. York was 5-0-1 overall through late last week.

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

LEGAL NOTICES

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

CASE NUMBER 23 ZBA 04

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, May 2, 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 T Rodriguez Enterprises LLC.; Florentino Rodriguez, Manager, for a front yard setback Variation at the property commonly known as 348 N. Walnut Street, Elmhurst, Illinois for the purpose of constructing a covered porch.

Following is a legal description of the subject property:

LOT 35 IN ALBERT D. GRAUE AND SON HIGHVIEW SUBDIVISION NUMBER 2, BEING PART OF THE SOUTHWEST 1/4 OF SECTION 35, TOWNSHIP 40 NORTH, RANGE 11 EAST OF THE THIRD PRINCIPAL MERIDIAN, IN DUPAGE COUNTY, ILLINOIS.

PIN: 03-35-315-024

The common street address is 348 N. Walnut Street, 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 April 13, 2023) 435859

NOTICE

CERTIFICATE NO. 79018 was filed in the office of the County Clerk of DuPage County on MARCH 22, 2023, wherein the business firm of PROPER PRESSURE WASHING LOCATED AT 136 W. PARK AVENUE UNIT 2E, ELMHURST, IL 60126 was registered; that the true or real name or names of the person or persons owning the business, with their respective post office address(es), is/are as follows:

NAME OF PERSON(S) MATTHEW

MIKRUT, HOME ADDRESS 136 W. PARK AVENUE UNIT 2E, ELMHURST, IL 60126.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and Official Seal at my office in Wheaton, Illinois, this 22ND day of MARCH, A.D. 2023.

JEAN KACZMAREK Jean Kaczmarek DuPage County Clerk

(OFFICIAL SEAL)

(Published in The Elmhurst Independent March 30, April 6 & 13, 2023) 435161

The goals continue to pile up for the Timothy Christian girls soccer team. The Trojans scored 28 goals in the first five games on their way to a perfect 5-0 start. In recent action, Timothy downed Ridgewood 6-0. Maddie Drye had three goals and two assists, while Angie Tornabene had a goal and two assists. Hope Huizenga had two goals. Juliana Norman and Emily White combined in goal to earn the shutout. They face no shots.

Timothy also was a 3-1 non-conference winner over Willows Academy from Des Plaines. Drye had a goal and two assists, while Sami Drye and fellow sophomore Amanda Schnurr each had a goal. Mili Martens had an assist. Norman earned the win in goal, making four saves.

In a 10-0 win over St. Edward, Maddie Drye had two goals and one assist. Huizenga scored three goals, while Martens had two goals. In a 4-0 victory over Lisle, Tornabene had a goal and an assist. Maddie

• Baseball

(Continued from page 15)

team take a big step forward in the second Bishop McNamara game. “The bats finally broke out against Bishop Mac in a key conference win,” he said. “We have pitched and played defense well all year but have struggled to push runs across. Team bonding and devotions throughout the Myrtle Beach trip brought us closer together as a team and fortified our team chemistry. I expect the bats to stay hot and lead us to a strong record in conference.”

The Trojans were scheduled to play a two-game conference set against IC Catholic Prep earlier this week before hosting Glenbard South (today, 4:30 p.m.) and future conference foe Marian Central from Woodstock (Friday, 4:30 p.m.) in a pair of non-conference games. Timothy then faces Lisle Saturday in Lisle (10 a.m. start).

Through five games, Maddie Drye had 10 goals and five assists. Huizenga had five goals and four assists. Tornabene had four goals and three assists. Martens had three goals and one assist, while Sami Drye had two goals and four assists. Maddie Drye was leading the way with 18 shots on goal, while Huizenga had 15 and Tornabene had 10. Norman had a goals-against average of 0.30 with 10 saves, while White had no goals-against average and three saves. Combined, the goalie duo has a goals-against average of 0.21.

Timothy coach Jon Hamelinck noted the team has become more effective at connecting passes, “especially in the attacking third,” he said. “We have been maintaining possession over the first three games and have been improving on our creativi-

Hamelinck cited recent strong play in particular from Huizenga and leading scorer Maddie Drye. “Hope continues to play well in the middle of the field,” the coach said. “She has been winning plenty of 50-50s and has improved her distribution abilities. Maddie keeps putting the ball in the back of the net and draws a lot of attention from the opposing team. Getting her rolling is a good sign for our team.” Hamelinck added the team is hard at work on becoming “a little more efficient in the attacking third,” he said. “We have put on a lot of shots and pressure but have lacked some killer instinct at times.”

Timothy hosted IC Catholic Prep earlier this week in a key contest between two strong teams and town neighbors. Hamelinck said the Trojans also are looking forward to the BODYARMOR Sports Series event this weekend in Schaumburg. Timothy is scheduled to play Wheaton Academy and Urbana there. Timothy is also headed to the Tournament of Champions event in Iowa at the end of the month.

White Pines to hold

fitting experience

The White Pines Golf Club, 500 W. Jefferson St. in Bensenville, will host the first of several summer fitting days beginning Thursday, May 4 from 2-6 p.m. at the club’s driving range. Expert club fitters will be on hand to help select appropriate equipment using a data-driven approach to help golfers improve performance.

The event will feature a representative from TaylorMade as well as White Pines head PGA professional Bill Roper, and TaylorMade equipment will be available for purchase.

“Fitting days give golfers—men and women of all skill levels and abilities—the opportunity to try out the latest in golf tech to help them with their game,” Roper explained.

TaylorMade’s myFittingExp fitting application must be used for signing up members/customers for all TaylorMade Experiential Fitting events. The TaylorMade myFittingExp app allows for a seamless fitting experience, where the golf professional and staff will have access to all fitting data from the event.

Advance registration is required. Visit WhitePinesGolf.com for more information and for the link to register at the TaylorMade myFittingExp website. A limited number of slots are available. The White Pines Pro Shop has golf gear and apparel in stock. Patrons are invited to check out the wide variety during the shop’s normal business hours.

‘TaylorMade’

DEE LONGFELLOW PHOTOS Elmhurst Independent

Elmhurst University music faculty to perform spring recital

On Sunday, April 16 at 7 p.m., eight faculty members of the Elmhurst University Music Department will join in a showcase performance recital for the greater Elmhurst community and Elmhurst music students. The Spring Faculty Recital will be performed in the Buik Recital Hall inside the Irion Hall Music Building on the Elmhurst University Campus.

A variety of solo and chamber music repertoire will be performed encompassing various musical periods from classical to contemporary. The faculty members to be highlighted includes professor of flute Marie Bennett, professor of guitar Steven Vazquez, professor of oboe Julie Popplewell, professor of piano Soyoung Kee, professor of trumpet Chris O’Hara, professor of violin Edgar Gabriel, professor of tuba Josh Wirt, and professor of piano Linda Camp will serve as accompanist for the recital. The concert will conclude with the Continental String Ensemble featuring music from their latest CD, Music from the 1893 Chicago World’s Fair Parking is available in the Old Main lot, Alexander lot, or Visitor Parking along the south side of the football field. For further information, a map of the campus or more information about future performances, please visit elmhurst.edu/music.

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For your free digital eSubscription, sign up at rockvalleyenews.com. There will be no solicitation, no phone calls, just complete weekly local news compliments of advertisers.

A free copy of the Elmhurst Independent print version can also be picked up at more than 80 newsstand locations in Elmhurst every Thursday. Print copies are also available by free mail home delivery in Elmhurst. For free home delivery within Elmhurst, visit rockvalleydigital.com.

Analisa Raffaelli

Analisa Raffaelli is a Junior and plays Shortstop for the IC Catholic Prep Softball Team. She has started off the season leading the Lady Knights to 8 wins and 1 loss. Analisa leads the team with a stellar .545 batting average, 3 home runs and 10 RBI. Analisa has 4 stolen bases and has hit 5 doubles and has played great defense throughout the season. Analisa has committed to play college softball at Colgate University.

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Fine Furniture Refinishing, Reupholstery, and Restoration

We

January 9, 2023

Dear Appreciated Client,

AS MOST OF SMALL BUSINESSESS we have all gone through a tumultuous time. However we weathered the storm and we celebrate our 100 year anniversary! Having said that, many people have all seen items that are in need of some tender love and care, refinishing, reupholstery, or restoration after extensive wear and tear! Since our lease with the new building owners is up this summer and Richard has fully recovered from a recent surgery, we now have a new and more thankful outlook on life!

If you have been waiting to have your furniture or beloved heirloom restored or refinished or reupholstered this could be your best opportunity. Richard is doing well and thanks everyone for their thoughts and prayers and he is back at the ready as always! As we all know nothing can keep him down.

As our sign of gratitude, we are offering our great customers a private sale on our in stock furniture and inventory including our accessories, lamps & Capodimonte giftware. We are also offering a buy two get one free opportunity on our Capodimonte lamps, giftware and centerpieces. OR if you purchase a bedroom set, we will include a dining room set at “no charge” while supplies last. Since we have a large selection of dining room sets we are also offering a BUY ONE GET ON FREE!!

Sale begins April 1st through May 5th

Sincerely yours,

Richard, Kathryn, Joe (Giuseppe), Antonio, Benito, & Mark THE MONTALBANO FAMILY

mark@montalbanofurniture.com Factory