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A sunny day at ‘Art in Wilder Park’

A conversation with Ted Hatmaker

The following is an interview with Ted Hatmaker, long-time pre-concert lecture presenter for the Elmhurst Symphony Orchestra, done by ESO staff member Penney Stergios. It has been edited for length, but the full interview in its entirety can be found at theindependentnewspapers.com.

You’re approaching your retirement with Elmhurst Symphony Orchestra as its beloved pre-concert lecturer! How do you feel about that?

“As with any activity one enjoys, deciding to leave my position as pre-concert lecturer with the ESO

A gracious farewell

Dr. Stephen Alltop and the Elmhurst Symphony Orchestra paid tribute to Ray Ostwald, who is retiring at the conclusion of this school year from a 27-year career, leading orchestras, chamber music and conducting at York High School. It was also the final pre-concert lecture delivered by Ted Hatmaker. More coverage of this event can be found elsewhere in this issue, including on the Viewpoint page.

was difficult. It has been such a part of me for so long, and I have found it rewarding in so many ways.

“I have developed many friendships with those who have attended my lectures and will truly miss interacting with them. Other projects, however, have been demanding increasingly more of my time, and it’s now necessary to attend to those.

“I also hope that my leaving will allow someone else to take over the position, someone who may provide the audience members with a different perspective. There is so much to know about the music we listen to,

and mine is only one point of view.” How did you get involved with the ESO?

“I was asked to join the Elmhurst Symphony board 30+ years ago by friend Vern Jones, who was on the board and whom I had known from church. I think he was hoping, with my music background, I could make some contributions to the organization. Well, we were not equipped to help financially, but I told the board I could write about music and so was asked to write the notes for the programs, which I did for several years. I also thought that the concerts

should have a pre-concert lecture.

“President Howard Schreiber asked, ‘Who could do that?’

“‘I can!’ I replied, and that’s how the pre-concert lecture series got started.”

What have you most enjoyed over the years?

“In my lectures – which are more SeeHATMAKER, Page 5

Dr.

DEE LONGFELLOW PHOTO Elmhurst Independent

DEE LONGFELLOW PHOTO Elmhurst Independent

Ted Hatmaker (right) smiles as the crowd gives a standing ovation, following his final pre-concert lecture on Saturday, May 6 before the Elmhurst Symphony Orchestra’s concert performance of Beethoven’s 9th. Hatmaker also discussed the allegro moderato movement of the Violin Concerto in D minor, Op. 47, by Jean Sibelius, performed by the ESO along with violinist Elinor Detmer, a 2022 Stanger Competition winner.

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Man accused of three incidents of loitering at York High School

Registered offender already on probation for possession of child pornography

On Wednesday, May 3, DuPage County State’s Attorney Robert Berlin and Elmhurst Chief of Police Michael McLean announced that a Villa Park man who is currently on probation for possession of child pornography stands accused of loitering within 500 feet of York Community High School on at least three occasions.

Yuusef Husain, 36, of the 800 block S. Summit Ave., appeared before Judge Joshua Dieden who set bond at $250,000, in accordance with a previously issued arrest warrant, although State had asked for a bond of $1 million. Husain is

charged with one count of Unlawful for Child Sex Offender to Loiter Within 500 Feet of School Property (Class 4 Felony).

Recently, the Elmhurst Police Department received numerous reports of occasions of young girls being watched and followed by a man while leaving school for the day. Through the course of their investigation into these reports, the Elmhurst Police Department was able to identify Husain as a suspect. It is alleged that on at least three occasions between April 12 and April 28, between 3:45 p.m. and 3:55 p.m., Hussain was within 500 feet of the school for approximately ten to 20 minutes on each occasion.

On Monday, May 1, Judge Dieden issued an arrest warrant for Husain. Husain was taken into custody on

Tuesday, May 2, while allegedly driving around York High School neighborhoods while students were waiting at their bus stops.

“As a registered child sex predator, Mr. Husain is prohibited from loitering within 500 feet of a school,” Berlin said. “This sex offender registration requirement is not optional. It is alleged that on several occasions, Mr. Husain violated this order and will now face not only today’s new charges, but will also now face a petition from my office to revoke his probation.

“I thank the Elmhurst Police Department for their outstanding efforts in this case from following up on residents’ concerns to the identification and apprehension of the suspect in this case.”

“There is no responsibility more

important to the Elmhurst Police Department than protecting the children of our community,” Chief McClean said. “I wish to thank the detectives who conducted surveillance operations of this sex offender during the course of the investigation and those who took him into custody.”

Husain’s next court appearance is scheduled for Monday, May 22, for arraignment in front of Judge Daniel Guerin.

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

Crestview Garden Club plans 43rd annual plant sale

Head to sale on Saturday, May 20 to pick out some new blooms!

Refresh your gardens with goodies from the Crestview Garden Club of Elmhurst 43rd annual plant sale on Saturday, May 20 from 8:30 a.m.-1 p.m. The sale will take place at The Depot at Wild Meadows Trace, 511 S. York St. (at the Prairie Path) in Elmhurst.

There will be more than 1,200 plants to choose from and 130-plus varieties that include sun and shade perennials, natives, herbs, groundcover and houseplants. The sale will also feature plants that attract pollinators. Most plants average in price from $5 to $10.

Experienced gardeners will be on site to answer plant questions and offer advice on selecting plants. The sale will also feature vendors selling wind chimes, birdhouses and a beekeeper offering honey. The event will be held rain or shine. Cash, credit cards and checks are accepted. Shop early for the best finds.

“We will have a large variety of quality perennials for sun and shade gardens at great prices,” said Felisa Rahn, president of the club and cochair of the plant sale committee.

“Each year we increase the kinds of native plants and those that attract butterflies, birds, and bees.” Native plants are a great choice for an environmentally-friendly and sustainable garden. They support local birds and butterflies, conserve water and require less intensive maintenance.

“We always have a great turnout at our plant sale,” said Rosalie Ward, club member relations chairman and co-chair of the plant sale committee.

“We have something for everyone –but we encourage plant shoppers to come early for the best selection.”

The club will once again offer a number of houseplants which were very popular at last year’s sale. Many houseplants help purify the air and

their presence provides a calming effect.

Where the money goes

Profits from the sale enable the club to support local efforts that align with its mission to encourage the love of horticulture and gardening by educating its members and the

community.

The club has donated to such groups as the Glenbard Transition Greenhouse (Glenbard HS), Great Western Prairie, We Grow Dreams Greenhouse & Garden Center and Heaven & Earth Grower’s Garden of the Elmhurst Presbyterian Church.

The club welcomes new members

and meets monthly first Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m. at the Community Bank of Elmhurst at Butterfield and Spring Rds in Elmhurst. For more details check out the club’s website at crestviewgardenclub.com.

The club was established in 1975 and is affiliated with the Elmhurst Park District.

Yuusef Husain

Glenbard West student accused of phoning in bomb threat to school

nounced that a Glenbard West High School student has been accused of phoning in a bomb threat directed at

• Hatmaker

(Continued from page 3)

accurately called concert previews

– I use PowerPoint presentations to give some background on the composers and works that we’ll hear, followed by an outline and themes of the music, during which I play excerpts from the music that help guide our listening during the concert. The preparations for the lectures have acquainted or re-acquainted me with many great musical masterpieces and have encouraged me to delve into them to find what makes them worthy of being preserved for ages.

Those who attend the lectures

have been so loyal and attentive that it warms my heart to know others are as interested in learning about the music as I am.

“Many attendees are very knowledgeable about music, and more than once someone has corrected factual errors I have made during my talk. I so appreciate this interaction and involvement they bring to these lectures!”

This entire interview with Ted Hatmaker can be found at the Elmhurst Independent’s web site at theindependentnewspapers.com.

the high school. The juvenile, a 17-year-old male, appeared at a detention hearing where Judge Joshua Dieden ordered that he be detained until at least his next court date which is scheduled for May 12. He has been charged with two counts of disorderly conduct, a Class 4 felony.

On May 3 at approximately 11:12 a.m., a voicemail was left for administrators at Glenbard West High School stating “West you have 10 minutes to get out or a bomb will

go off on the first, second and third floor.” Authorities did not hear the voicemail until after 11:30 a.m. At 11:43 a.m., the school received another call stating the same threat, but the caller stated that the bomb would go off in 15 minutes.

The school was evacuated and classes were cancelled for the rest of the day. An investigation into the threats conducted by the Glen Ellyn Police Department led authorities to the juvenile as a suspect. The juvenile was taken into custody later that

afternoon following a traffic stop in Glendale Heights.

“With the school year coming to a close, I want to remind everyone that my office takes any threat directed at a school extremely seriously,” Berlin said. “Threats to bomb a school, as alleged in this case, are not harmless jokes or an excuse to blow off steam. They can have a terrifying impact on students, staff and the entire community and anyone suspected of making such a threat will be fully investigated and charged accordingly.”

Dr. Stephen Alltop, music director and conductor of the Elmhurst Symphony Orchestra since 1995, called Ted Hatmaker up to the stage to give him a proper send-off on the occasion of his final pre-concert lecture. Hatmaker has provided information prior to the ESO concerts for more than 30 years.

DEE LONGFELLOW PHOTO Elmhurst Independent

DuPage County State’s Attorney Robert Berlin and Glen Ellyn Chief of Police Phillip Norton have an-

Police beat

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

Assault, battery

May 2

Wesley James Crosswhite, 22, of Wilmette, was charged with two counts of battery in the 100 block of S. Prospect at 6:15 p.m. According to police, a victim related the suspect struck him after asking him to quiet down. The suspect related he became frustrated and lashed out at the victim, police said.

April 22

Matthew T. Dalton, 31, of Wheaton, was charged with aggravated battery in public place, DUI, criminal damage to property, leaving the scene of an accident and transportation of open alcohol by driver subsequent to a call for a hit and run in the 600 block of W. North at 3:40 p.m.

Domestic battery, disorderly conduct, domestic incident, disturbance

April 30

Police said a complainant reported that Victor Santiago, 40, of Carol Stream, was urinating on the street. Officers made contact with the suspect, who allegedly became belligerent and uncooperative. Santiago allegedly pulled away while officers were attempting to take him into custody. Police said that upon further investigation it was learned Santiago had three active warrants. He was charged with disorderly conduct obstructing ID and resisting arrest.

A complainant in the 900 block of S. Hillside reported at 9 p.m. that a suspect exited the residence and hit him in the eye following a verbal argument. This case is pending investigation.

April 29

A 30-year-old Elmhurst man was charged with domestic battery and interfering with the reporting of domestic violence in the 900 block of S. Kirk at 2:12 a.m. A victim reported that the suspect pushed her to the ground and damaged her phone while preventing her from calling 911.

A 29-year-old Elmhurst man was charged with two counts of domestic battery in the 900 block of N. Virginia at 8:18 p.m. Police said officers located the victim, who had injuries.

April 28

Harvey L. Segal, 77, of Elmhurst, was issued citations for parking—blocking a private driveway and parking where curbs are painted yellow subsequent to a report for a disturbance in the 100 block of N. Addison at 4:58 p.m. According to police, a reporting officer located a victim who was parked in a yellow-painted curb zone. Police said the victim related the suspect struck his vehicle using his hand causing damage. The suspect, according to police, related that the victim was parked blocking the driveway entrance to his building.

Harassment, threats

May 2

A victim in the 600 block of S. Parkside told police at 1:47 p.m. that an unknown cyber

hacker has been harassing and threatening him and his company. An investigation is pending.

April 28

A victim at Elm Creek Drive told police at 7:32 p.m. she had an item for sale on Facebook and a suspect agreed on the price. The victim provided her information to the suspect but never received payment. The suspect sent threatening messages asking for her money back. This case is pending investigation.

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

May 3

Amari Ward, 25, of Aurora, was charged with driving while license suspended and illegal possession of open alcohol in a vehicle subsequent to a traffic stop near Butterfield and Commonwealth at 9:04 p.m.

Fleeing, eluding

According to information provided last week by the Elmhurst Police Department, police reported three 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.

Liquor law violation

April 27

Police said that subsequent to a bar check in the 100 block of N. Addison at 11:54 p.m., officers found 10 minors on a licensed premise and in possession of fictitious IDs. Police said Christopher S Swiatek, 19, of Franklin Park, fled on foot, was taken into custody and charged with battery, resisting a police officer and consumption of alcohol by minor. Amelia C. Kirsch, 18, and Olivia J. Kirsch, 19, both of Clarendon Hills, and Natalia O. Torres, 20, of Countryside, were each issued citations for minor on a licensed premise and false use of an ID. Chloe C. Conley, 20, of Sugar Grove; Joseph S. Debenedictis, 20, of Addison; Katelyn G. Matthew, 19, of Springfield; and William A. Sherman, 20, of Elmhurst, were issued citations for consumption of alcohol by a minor and false use of an ID. Joseph S. Dituri, 20, of Bloomingdale, was issued a citation for false use of an ID.

Possession of cannabis in a vehicle

According to information provided last week by the Elmhurst Police Department, police reported two incidents of possession of cannabis by either the driver of a vehicle or a passenger: Denilson Quintanilla Benitez, 19, of Chicago, near York and Lake at 11:21 p.m. April 30; and Alimayu Makonnen, 30, of Dolton, near North and Indiana at 9:02 p.m. May 3.

Possession of a controlled substance

May 3

Kelly Olmetti, 39, and Timothy Olmetti, 45, both of Elmhurst, were charged with unlawful possession of a controlled substance in the 500 block of W. Grand at 1:48 p.m. Police said that subsequent to a report of an intoxicated subject, the suspects were found to be in possession of fentanyl.

Suspicious incident

April 30-May 1

A victim in the 200 block of N. Highland reported that upon starting her vehicle that was parked in the driveway overnight, it was discovered an unknown suspect filled the tailpipe with a foreign material. The item became dislodged upon starting the vehicle and there was no damage caused. An investigation is pending.

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

May 3

A complainant at a business in the 200 block of E. Butterfield reported at 12:10 p.m. that an unknown suspect entered his shop to wash his hands. When the suspect left, the complainant noticed a scan tool was missing. The suspect left the area in a blue Chevrolet Equinox.

May 2

A victim in the 400 block of S. Berkley told police that an unknown person(s) removed two packages from his property.

April 30

A victim at a business in the 100 block of N. York reports an employee entered the business after it had closed and removed cash. An investigation is pending.

April 27

A complainant in the 600 block of W. North related at 12:48 p.m. that an unknown suspect stole her phone after she realized it was not in her possession while at the above location. An investigation is pending.

March 4-April 26

A complainant in the 100 block of W. Park told police that an unknown suspect had stolen and washed a check she had mailed at sometime between the above dates. The suspect then forged and cashed the stolen check. An investigation is pending.

March 25-March 30

A victim in the 100 block of S. Lawndale told police that during travel, one of her suitcases was lost and then returned two months later. When the suitcase was returned, clothing was missing. The theft was reported to Lufthansa Airlines, but they required a police

report and were advised to get one from the local police department.

Theft of catalytic converters

According to information provided last week by the Elmhurst Police Department, police reported one incident of catalytic converters being removed and stolen from a vehicle: in the 300 block of S. West at 4:19 p.m. May 2.

Retail theft

April 28

Melissa S. Straley, 30, of Chicago, Straley was charged with retail theft: exceeding $300, retail theft: prior convictions, burglary, and unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia, while Krzysztof Nawrot, 49, of Chicago, was charged with retail theft: exceeding $300, retail theft: prior convictions, burglary, unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia and aggravated battery and found to have a warrant out of Glenview subsequent to a report for a retail theft at a store in the 100 block of E. Schiller at 1:39 p.m.

A complainant at a gas station in the 600 block of W. North related that unknown suspect(s) took several items off the shelves and exited without paying. The suspects fled the scene last seen heading eastbound on North Avenue.

Elmhurst Public Library programs

Friday, May 12 from 2-3 p.m. Computer Basics

We’ll discuss computer safety and ways to protect yourself from phishing, smishing, and ransomware. Live in-person. Registration required.

Friday, May 12 from 2-4 p.m. Friday Features: Moonrise

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

Saturday, May 13 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, May 15 from 10-11 a.m. Communicating in a Diverse Workplace

Communicating and working with different generations and cultures requires patience and understanding. Learn how to value new ideas and embrace the change that each individual brings. Presented with People’s Resource Center. Live in-person. Registration required.

Tuesday, May 16 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, May 16 from 7-8 p.m. Mind Games: The Science of Memory

Learn why we remember what we do, the different kinds of memory, and how we can’t trust everything we recall. Then learn how to improve your memory. Live in-person and on Zoom. Registration required.

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

CALL 800-222-TIPS

Obituaries

Wayne Hoffman, 90 Wayne Hoffman, of Elmhurst, passed away on May 1, 2023 at Edward-Elmhurst Memorial Hospital at the age of 90. Born in Chicago on Nov. 21, 1932, Wayne infused others every day with his passion and buoyant love for life. He served in the Army during the Korean War. Later, Chicago named Wayne the first principal of an early childhood model that has been duplicated in underserved neighborhoods throughout the City of Chicago. He remained a White Sox fan always, a passionate reader who devoured thousands of books, a community play performer and a lifelong donor to charity.

Wayne’s energy and happy singing became legendary. “Stay loose! I’m well if you’re well! Consider yourself at home!” Wayne’s ultimate lifework was to spark smiles that fostered empowering optimism.

Wayne died among his family after several months fighting cancer. A man of bedrock faith, he passed peacefully as the priest conducting last rites asked the gates of paradise open for him.

He is survived by his wife of almost 70 years Tommye, children Mary Jo (Mike) Mikottis, Joe (Julie), Andy (Jon), and John; grandson Alex (Sara), and sister Carol.

A Mass of Christian Burial took place on Friday, May 5 at Visitation Catholic Church, 779 S. York St. Interment at Mt. Carmel Catholic Cemetery in Hillside. In lieu of flowers, Wayne asked that donations may be made to Trinity Missions (trinitymissions.org) to whom Wayne faithfully contributed for more than 70 years. Arrangements in care of Elmhurst Community Funeral Home – The Ahlgrim Chapel. For info, (630) 8343515 or www.ElmhurstFH.com.

Elizabeth Jane “Betty”

McCarthy, 91

Elizabeth Jane “Betty” McCarthy, of Elmhurst, passed away on May 1, 2023 at the age of 91. Beloved wife of 43 years to the late Robert W. McCarthy. Loving mother of Robert J. (Wendy) McCarthy, Mary E. Norman, Theresa M. McCarthy and the late Brian J. (Cindy) McCarthy. Dear grandmother of Kelly, Brian (Lyn), Matthew (Hannah), Jessica (Hayley), Marisa, Ryan, Megan, Kyle, Connor and Morgan. Great grandmother of Colt, Milo and Nate. Daughter of the late William H. and A. Frances Martin. Fond sister of Sr. Mary Therese Martin, the late Marge, the late Bill, the late James, the late Robert. Loved by many nieces, nephews, friends and neighbors. Betty was an avid gardener, reader and collector of antiques. She loved to play dice and cards. She always had an ongoing project and taught her family the value of hard work.

A Funeral Mass was held on Friday, May 5 at Immaculate Concep-

tion Church 134 W. Arthur St. Interment Queen of Heaven Cemetery, Hillside. In lieu of flowers, memorials appreciated to Daughters of Charity, Seton Residence, 9200 New Harmony Rd, Evansville, IN 477128918. Arrangements provided by Pedersen Ryberg Funeral Home 435 N. York Street, Elmhurst. Info: pedersenryberg.com,

Mary E. Coburn, 91

Mary E. Coburn, a 67-year resident of Elmhurst, passed away April 28, 2023 at the age of 91. She was born July 9, 1931 in Cadwell, Ill., to the late Elva and Wonita Williams.

Beloved wife of 64 years to the late Warren C. Coburn; loving mother to Warren Coburn Jr., Mary Beth Angell, Craig (Cynthia) Coburn and John (Richard) Coburn; cherished grandmother to Celene Wilson, Ryan Coburn, Chase Angell, Jenna Alvarez, Nathan Coburn and Cayla Coburn; dear great grandmother of 8 great grandchildren; dear sister to the late Marge Phillips and the late Robert Williams; further survived by many nieces and nephews.

A Memorial Service will be held at 11:30 a.m. on Friday, May 19, at Elmhurst Community Funeral Home – The Ahlgrim Chapel, 567 South Spring Road, Elmhurst. Family and friends may visit from 10:30 a.m. until the time of the service.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Mary’s name to the Sarcoma Foundation of America curesarcoma.org. Arrangements in care of Elmhurst Community Funeral Home – The Ahlgrim Chapel. Info: (630) 834-3515 or ElmhurstFH.com.

Donna Marie Robertson Prest Services Friday

Donna Marie Robertson Prest, born March 27, 1941, went home to be with the Lord, our Savior, on Thursday, May 4, 2023.

Donna was born and raised in Villa Park, the daughter of Graham Thomas and Mary Robertson. Donna graduated from York Community High School and received her Bachelor’s degree in education from Elmhurst College.

Donna began her teaching career at Eldridge Elementary School in Elmhurst, where she taught fifth grade and served as a leader in the teachers union. While serving as union president Donna met Dale Prest, who would become her husband on August 16, 1969.

Donna went on to earn her Master’s degree in Education from Indiana University in 1969.

Donna and Dale welcomed their children Beth and Walter in 1975 and 1977. Donna moved back into teaching and started teaching seventh grade at Sandburg Middle School in Elmhurst in the fall of 1986. Her classroom shared a wall and doorway with Dale’s library and she even got to be his “boss” as she was in charge of the exploratory program that met

in the library. Donna and Dale taught at Sandburg until their retirement in 2001. Her career spanned 31 years and literally thousands of students who benefitted from her patience, care, love and brilliant teaching strategies. She and Dale moved on from teaching into a wonderful retirement full of friends, fun and travel. Their travels took them to such locations as a river cruise from Amsterdam to Budapest, another river cruise from Paris to Lyon, a trip to Normandy and a trip to India.

In retirement Donna also loved taking care of their grandchildren two days a week - Mackenzie and Braden. Donna learned to navigate the pick-up line at preschool, learned the finer points of dressing a hockey player and made many appearances as the guest reader in elementary school classrooms. She and Dale traveled with the kids to their tournaments for hockey and loved going to all their various school concerts and special events. In February of 2022, Donna was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer and she fought valiantly until her death. Donna passed away at home surrounded by her loved ones. Donna is survived by her husband, Dale E. Prest, her daughter Beth Myers and her husband Mike, her son Walter Prest and his wife Tracy, and her grandchildren Mackenzie & Braden Myers. Donna is also survived by her sister Lynn Schindler, her sisters-in-law Jane Prest and Alice Robertson and her nieces and nephews, Mim Threadgill, Sam Robertson, Heather Schindler and Scott Schindler. She was preceded in death by her parents Mary and Tom Robertson and by one brother, Tom Robertson. Visitation for Donna was held Monday, May 8, at Elmhurst Com-

THE BEST READING LIGHT

As we age, the iris’s ability to open enough to let in sufficient light decreases, and additional light is needed for the same level of vision a person had when younger. Reading light and task lighting are particularly important for doing closeup, detailed work. Natural light may be the best choice, but that is not always possible. To mimic natural light, choose halogen or fluorescent bulbs over incandescent. LEDs are good for directional light, but they emit short wavelengths that can make you feel tired. Warm, yellow light is generally considered best for reading because it relaxes the eyes. However, white light is more like natural light, and its intensity may help you concentrate better when reading for long periods. Today’s thin, lightweight lenses help people see near, far, and in-between without compromising their appearance. For all your eyewear needs, please stop by SKOWRON EYE CARE. Experience, commitment to technology, and a genuine concern for patient welfare enable all of our doctors and our highly qualified staff to work as a team to consistently deliver quality, affordable eye care. At Skowron Eye Care, our mission is your vision. P.S. Studies show that people in their 60s need 80% more light to see as well as a person in their 20s.

munity Funeral Home- The Ahlgrim Chapel, 567 South Spring Road, Elmhurst. Donna’s memorial service will take place Friday, May 12 at 11

a.m. at Christ Church Oak Brook, 501 Oak Brook Road, Oak Brook. In lieu of flowers, donations can

be made in Donna’s memory to the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network. Arrangements in care of Elmhurst Community Funeral Home – The Ahlgrim Chapel.

For info, (630) 834-3515 or www. ElmhurstFH.com.

Community calendar

THREE picks of the Week all on Saturday, May 13

Kiwanis Pancake Day, Mother’s Day plant sale

From 7-11 a.m., the Kiwanis Club is hosting a FREE Pancake Day, along with its annual Mother’s Day plant sale at the Elmhurst American Legion THB Post 187.

First Congregational Green Garden Fair

From 9 a.m. to 12 noon, the First Congregational Church, 235 S. Kenilworth, will be holding its annual Green Garden Fair. Master Gardeners on hand for questions, purchase other seedlings, local raw honey, birdseed ornaments, free heirloom bean seeds. Info: elmhurstucc.org/ EHM’s Cultural Crossroads Celebration

From 1-5 p.m., the Elmhurst History Museum will host a free Cultural Crossroads Celebration on the lawn as a ‘Last Hurrah’ for the Immigration exhibit that has been on display for the last several months. Residents are welcome to join the fun and see the exhibit before it departs on Sunday, May 14. Free and open to the public. Info: elmhursthistory.org.

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Slices of life

The extended losses of grief

One of the toughest aspects of ongoing, persistent and long-term grief is the loss of human life.

Not the life of the person who died, but other losses you never would have foreseen—but then again did you foresee that first loss?

I didn’t think so.

Grief begets loss. Over and over. It’s eye-opening, really. It brings about an intense sense of clarity. Life, relationships—everything— is fleeting. It is transient. It is sometimes no more than a mirage: something you thought was real, wasn’t ever even there in the first place.

People you thought were your people turn away, dissolve or simply disappear into the background. They may reach out once or twice but eventually they go silent.

And that’s okay.

The number of people who have exited my life in the last two years is, honestly, astounding. I blame it on me. I blame it on them. I blame it on grief. I blame it on human nature.

They say public speaking is everyone’s number one fear. I beg to differ.

I’ve come to believe it is grief. Loss. The unexpected upending of the solid and predictable universe as we once knew and trusted it. Being around someone in the throes of it can be difficult. Unbearable, even.

So unbearable that people tend to flee. Or at the very least avoid. Make excuses. Justify their flight. “It’s just too hard to be around. Too depressing.”

If the grief of another person makes you uncomfortable, imagine for a moment what that other person might be feeling, experiencing every day, every hour, every minute, every breath.

People around me are able to escape this reality because it isn’t theirs. Unfortunately, I don’t have that option.

I’ve watched person after person leave the party. Leave the scene of the crime. Without explanation or excuse. They are just gone.

Take it from me. I get it. I understand.

By JILL PERTLER Columnist

I used to be one of those people. Grief was overwhelming—even when it was the grief of someone other than me. I didn’t want to have anything to do with it.

So I absconded. I left the party.

Until I couldn’t leave because I didn’t have that choice. I was forced to watch the aftermath. To live out the algorithm. To experience the fallout. To see the fear in others.

To them I might be a third wheel. I might be a threat. I might be a reminder of what could be coming.

Either way, it isn’t pleasant. I get that. I so get that.

My reason for writing this isn’t to make people feel bad or guilty. I don’t want my grief to do any more damage than it already has - and that has been substantial.

My purpose is to shine a tiny beam of light on the topic. Light a candle, if you will, to open the door to honesty in emotions that are uncomfortable and intimidating.

It’s okay to be afraid of grief.

I am. I don’t think that will ever change. But if you are afraid, and if my grief causes that, please be honest. Let me know. It’s okay. I will understand that so much more than your silence. I will understand because I do understand. More than you could ever know.

My grief makes you uncomfortable? Imagine how it makes me feel.

Yeah. Not good.

Let’s talk. It’s never too late, until it is.

And none of us wants it to get to that.

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

Under my Father’s Fedora

In praise of gracious men: Dr. Stephen Alltop

It wasn’t even on the proverbial Bucket List, but Saturday’s performance of Beethoven’s 9th Symphony, performed by the Elmhurst Symphony Orchestra, led masterfully as always by Dr. Stephen Alltop, along with the Elmhurst Choral Union, the Apollo Chorus of Chicago and four soloists, was a must-see for all. It was a magnificent performance performed before a near full house and had several side notes of interest as well. Beethoven’s 9th includes Joy! which adapts the text of the “Ode to Joy,” a poem by Friedrich Schiller (with some additional text thrown in there by Beethoven himself). Regular church-goers would recognize it as the music to the hymn “Joyful, Joyful, We Adore Thee.”

It was Ted Hatmaker’s final pre-concert lecture -- more on him elsewhere in this issue – plus a salute to Ray Ostwald, who is retiring at the conclusion of this school year from a 27-year career leading orchestras, chamber music and conducting at York High School. Dr. Alltop called both the individuals to come forward to be introduced, as he praised their accomplishments and noted their careers committed to music.

By DEE LONGFELLOW Editor

These were such gracious men – particularly Dr. Alltop. It’s always amazing how candid and comfortable he appears as he gives credit to others for their contributions. He knows how to call people forward, how to greet them on stage and how to properly address them and sing their welldeserved praises.

In addition, when it’s time for applause and ovations, Dr. Alltop always has soloists as well as featured sections rise and be recognized. He takes a bow, but it is not all about him. And in this case, he was also directing the Elmhurst Choral Union and the Apollo Chorus, not to mention four soloists. It was just a pure pleasure to witness – all while dressed in a tux, all done graciously.

It’s such a pleasure to see gracious men. Men who don’t start gasping and choking the minute they hear they may have to wear a

tie somewhere, men who can wear a shirt that doesn’t have a graphic design that mentions his love for beer Gracious men are those who accept the uniform of their craft, be it the tuxedo and tails of the maestro or the buttoned-up suit and tie of a lecturer. Both are worn with pride and gusto, even a bit of pomp. These are men who not only seem comfortable in their clothes, but in fact also appear to enjoy wearing them.

Gracious men know how to act when they are acknowledged. And gracious men know how to praise others in a gracious way.

You could say, I like the way Dr. Alltop “conducts” himself -- hardyhar-har.

It’s just such a pleasure to see that kind of behavior particularly from men in this day and age. It’s gracious and classy and Dr. Stephen Alltop is the absolute classiest.

Check out the ESO’s next season, it already looks like a winner, so get yourself subscribed. You may find a Bucket List entry you didn’t even know you had. Visit elmhurstsymphony.org.

And if you ever have the chance to see and hear a performance of Beethoven’s 9th Symphony, do not pass it up.

EHM closes ‘Pursuit of Happiness’ exhibit with Cultural Crossroads Celebration

Free special event takes place Saturday available while supplies last, will include make-your-own guitars and maracas, as well as paper crafts such as origami cranes, butterflies, and flowers.

The Elmhurst History Museum’s latest exhibit, “In Pursuit of Happiness: Immigrants in Our Communities,” will soon be closing after a six-month run. The museum is presenting a special event on the exhibit’s final weekend to celebrate the many ways immigrants contribute to the colorful fabric of Chicago area communities.

The public is invited to the Cultural Crossroads Celebration on Saturday, May 13 from 1-5 p.m. inside the museum and outdoors under a tent where there will be an array of performances, presentations, and interactions with special guests.

Scheduled activities

Throughout the “In Pursuit of Happiness” exhibit’s months of exhibition, the museum has partnered with many collaborators to share stories of immigration. The Cultural Crossroads Celebration will showcase many of these exhibit partners, including Immigrant Solidarity DuPage and Xilin Association, and offer many family-friendly activities including:

• Mariachi Monarca DuPage will perform at 2 p.m.

• Watch an amazing display of skill at 3 p.m. by the multi-age martial artists from the Illinois Shaolin Kung Fu Academy.

• Students from York High School’s International Club will share presentations about different cultures.

• Free craft activities for kids,

• Play games with international origins and spin the World Trivia Wheel to test your global knowledge.

• View the “In Pursuit of Happiness” exhibit inside the museum in the first-floor gallery.

About the exhibit

The Cultural Crossroads Celebration is presented as the final event related to the Elmhurst History Museum’s exhibit, “In Pursuit of Happiness: Immigrants in Our Communities,” which closes on Sunday, May 14. The exhibit shares the personal stories and experiences of area immigrants and their descendants as told through first-person accounts, photographs, treasured objects, video and more. Admission is free.

Don’t miss this last chance to explore the “In Pursuit of Happiness: Immigrants in Our Communities” exhibit and celebrate the diversity of local communities through the Cultural Crossroads celebration. For the latest information, please visit www.elmhursthistory.org or call 630-833-1457.

The Elmhurst History Museum is located at 120 E. Park Ave. in downtown Elmhurst. Free parking is available on site and at nearby parking garages. More information can be found at www.elmhursthistory.org.

Members of the York High School International Club will be on-hand at the Elmhurst History Museum’s Cultural Crossroad event on Saturday to share presentations about different cultures.

SUBMITTED PHOTO Elmhurst Independent

Real estate/Business

Bluejay Tank winner’s idea hits all the right notes Students

from Lombard, Addison place second in University competition

An idea for “singing” clothing earned Elmhurst University sophomore Venezia Munoz a prize of $1,500 and first place in the Spring 2023 Bluejay Tank Pitch Competition.

Munoz mixed fashion with technology for her streetwear clothing line, Vivid Existence, which features freelance artists’ designs inspired by song lyrics. The tech part is a Spotify code that plays the corresponding song on a person’s phone when scanned.

Munoz was one of seven student entrepreneurs who pitched five business ideas during the event in midApril. A total of $3,000 in prize money was up for grabs.

University juniors Miftha Syed, of Lombard, and Aaliya Khaja, of Addison, placed second and won $1,000. Their pitch, Instapark, is an app for colleges and universities that uses geolocation to help drivers find open parking spots on campus and solves the “universal” problem of having to circle parking lots.

MBA student Muhammad Rafiul “Rafi” Islam Zareef, of Chicago, earned the $500 third-place award. He pitched Storyboard Inc., a writing application that streamlines the creative process by keeping research, outlines and storylines in one place. The app organizes and connects writers’ ideas using timeline tools, plot strings and idea binders.

Contestants were judged using four criteria: 1) the judges’ first impressions of each presentation and how well the proposal’s solution met the need; 2) pitch content; 3) pitch delivery; and, 4) each contestant’s ability to confidently, competently answer judges’ questions.

“We were thrilled with the high energy and great business ideas from the mix of undergraduate and graduate students this semester, and the entrepreneur judges were really blown away by the quality of the pitches,” said Patrick Yanahan ’94, MBA ’10, Elmhurst University’s entrepreneur in residence.

“The program keeps getting

bigger every year, and it’s nice to share the best talent from our student base with the private business sector.”

The Bluejay Tank Pitch Competition is offered by the Elmhurst University E-celerator, a resource for students interested in launching

Business briefs

County partners adopt public school mutual aid response agreement

DuPage County State’s Attorney Robert Berlin, DuPage Regional

Office of Education Superintendent Dr. Darlene Ruscitti, Head of the School Safety Task Force John Heiderscheidt and representatives from school districts as well as spe-

a new business or innovating within an existing one. The competition also is supported by the PNC Foundation.

cial education and other cooperatives across the County, announced last week the adoption of a new county-wide agreement that will expedite and facilitate the development and implementation of programs designed to provide mutual aid in crises in DuPage County school districts and cooperatives which exceed the capacity of an individual school district or cooperative to respond effectively on its own.

Park Place Health & Wellness Center receives Gold Seal of Approval Park Place Health & Wellness Center in Elmhurst was recently granted re-accreditation as a Nursing Care Center from The Joint Commission, earning the prestigious Gold Seal of Approval,® as well as a special certification in Post-Acute Care. The Gold Seal is a symbol of quality that reflects a health care organization’s commitment to providing safe and quality patient care. For more information, visit ParkPlaceElmhurst. com.

Hospital ranks

‘A’ from Leapfrog

The Leapfrog Group has awarded Elmhurst Hospital with an A in its Spring 2023 Hospital Safety Grades. It’s the 23rd consecutive time Elmhurst Hospital has earned an A, making it one of only 20 hospitals in the country and three in Illinois to be awarded an A in every Hospital Safety Grade cycle since 2012.

ALYSSA KUEHNE PHOTO Elmhurst Independent Winners of the Elmhurst University Spring 2023 Bluejay Tank Pitch Competition include (from left): Venezia Munoz, Aaliya Khaja, Miftha Syed and Muhammad Rafiul “Rafi” Islam Zareef.

Four’ found guilty on all counts in bribery trial tied to ex-Speaker Madigan

Former speaker will stand for his own corruption trial next year

By Hannah Meisel CAPITOL NEWS ILLINOIS

A federal jury on May 2 convicted three ex-lobbyists and the former CEO of electric utility Commonwealth Edison for their involvement in an alleged bribery scheme aimed at longtime Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan.

Former ComEd CEO Anne Pramaggiore and Mike McClain—the utility’s longtime contract lobbyist and close confidant of Madigan—were each found guilty of nine counts of conspiracy bribery and falsifying records.

Former City Club of Chicago President Jay Doherty, who also served for decades as an external lobbyist for the utility, and John Hooker, a former ComEd executive turned contract lobbyist for the company, were each found guilty of six counts.

Prosecutors alleged the foursome gave Madigan allies jobs and contracts at the utility in exchange for an easier path for ComEd-supported legislation in Springfield.

The four defendants were stoic as Judge Harry Leinenweber read the verdict late Tuesday afternoon. The benches in the courtroom were filled with friends and family of the defendants, and sniffles could be heard in the audience as the judge read the guilty counts.

Defendants declined to comment as they left the Dirksen Federal Courthouse, though Pramaggiore’s attorney, Scott Lassar, briefly spoke to reporters, saying only that his team was “disappointed in the ruling” and planned to appeal.

The six-week trial was borne of a wide-ranging federal corruption probe that has rocked Illinois politics and ultimately unseated Madigan, who had been the longest-serving legislative leader in the nation. The former speaker faces related criminal racketeering charges in his own trial, set for next April.

After the verdict, acting U.S. attorney for the Northern District of Illinois, Morris Pasqual, acknowledged that the bribery alleged in this case wasn’t about cash flowing to Madigan, but rather a more intangible benefit: increased political capital.

“This was not the $10,000 in a grocery bag in the back room; it was much more complex,” Pasqual told reporters, flanked by the assistant U.S. attorneys who prosecuted the case. “And the dollar amounts involved and the gain involved was much more significant as well. So it was a different type of (bribery) case.”

Pasqual said the government was “gratified” that “the jury saw it for what it was.”

Tuesday’s verdict could bolster prosecutors’ case against Madigan, who, in the course of the trial, was revealed as the initial target of the feds’ investigation which opened in late 2014.

Since then, the probe has grown to encompass more than a dozen high-profile players in the state’s political ecosystem.

The jury deliberated for approximately 27 hours since getting the case last Tuesday afternoon. A sentencing date was not set before court adjourned.

Speaking to reporters after the verdict, jury member Amanda Schnitker Sayers said the jury grew to like the defendants over the course of the trial.

“All in all, they’re good people that made bad decisions,” she said.

Schnitker Sayers said the jury stayed away from discussing Madigan outside of his role in the case at hand, but said they came to believe the speaker’s involvement with ComEd “was key.”

“He really did cause this all to happen,” she said. “If it wouldn’t have been for him, these people would not have been in the position that they would need to commit crimes in the first place.”

Martial artists to perform

At 3 p.m. on Saturday, May 13 at the Elmhurst History Museum’s Cultural Crossroad event, watch an amazing display of skill by the multi-age martial artists from the Illinois Shaolin Kung Fu Academy, a group that has performed at the United Center and other venues across Chicagoland.

SUBMITTED PHOTO Elmhurst Independent

DuPAGE DESTINATIONS

Your Dining & Entertainment Guide to the Western Suburbs

Can’t-miss events throughout

DuPage County

Editor’s note: Our next DuPage Destinations section will be published Thursday, May 25. If you have information on an event in DuPage County taking place after May 25 that you would like us to consider listing here, please email that information to: news1@rvpublishing.com

Ongoing North Suburban Carvers meetings

The North Suburban Carvers meet on the first and third Mondays of each month at the Wood Dale Public Library from 6:30-8:30 p.m. Anyone interested in carving, power carving, wood burning or special finishing techniques is welcome. North Suburban Carvers is a non-profit organization that promotes carving in the Chicago area. For more information, visit: northsurburbancarvers.com .org/calendar.aspx

Registration for Forest Preserve summer camps open for DuPage residents

The Forest Preserve District’s popular lineup of summer camps will return for the summer of 2023 Registration is now open for DuPage County residents and for nonresidents starting March 1. Kids entering first through eighth grades can connect to nature with more than a dozen camps, many focusing on science, technology, engineering, and math. Most camps are five days, Monday through Friday and run from 9 a.m. to noon or 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Half-day camps are $150 for DuPage residents and $175 for nonresidents, and full-day camps are $250 for DuPage residents and $290 for nonresidents. For more in-

See EVENTS, Page 13

formation, visit: dupageforest.org or call 630-933-7200.

Now through June 4

“Grease” at Drury Lane Theater, Oakbrook Terrace

Recurring weekly on Sunday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday at Drury Lane Theater, 100 Drury Lane, relive those “Summer Nights” with Danny and Sandy as they rediscover their summer fling romance. Grease became the soundtrack of a generation and one of the world’s most popular musicals. For tickets, information and show times, visit: https://drurylanetheatre.com/greas.

Now through Sept. 30

Muddy Warhol Art Exhibit

Westmont

Recurring daily t the Westmont Centre, 1 S. Cass Ave., the Westmont Special Events Corporation (WSEC) NFP has created the Muddy Warhol Art Contest & Exhibit to cross promote a new Andy Warhol Exhibit at the College of DuPage, which will debut this spring, as well as highlight the Muddy Waters Blues Exhibit in Westmont. The contest and exhibit will encourage artists to create and submit Warhol-inspired art featuring the image of blues music legend Muddy Waters. Waters lived in Westmont from 1973 until he passed in 1983. Westmont Special Events has created a blues exhibit and annual Muddy Waters Blues Tribute music event to honor the American music icon. For more information, visit: https://westmont.illinois.gov/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=1748&fbclid=IwAR3MoCxv0KpmIu64FAtmYhMwTjagx47XRwCWzQ9NuKvRHcRTcJqjJHMpmsM.

Now through Nov. 25

French Market

Wheaton

Recurring weekly from 8 a.m.2 p.m. on Saturdays in downtown Wheaton (Main Street and Liberty Drive), Saturdays are Market Days in Wheaton. Come and explore ... you will find a great assortment of goods. Flowers, locally grown produce, jewelry, crafts and more are sold. Free. For more information, visit: https:// bensidounusa.com/wheaton/.

Saturday, May 13

Sidewalk art contest

Westmont

From 11 a.m.-1 p.m. presented by the Westmont Park District at the William L. Gregg House Museum, 115 S. Linden Ave., color splash the sidewalk in front of the Gregg House Museum into a dazzling mosaic of design. Westmont Park District will provide the chalk; you bring your ideas and drawing skills. No previous art experience required. All abilities and ages welcome. Drawings will be judged at 1 p.m. and great prizes will be awarded immediately following. Every year a huge crowd comes to this free event. Pre-register by May 11 so that enough chalk can be provided. You can register the day of the program as long as space is available.

Rain date is Sunday, May 14. For more information, visit: www. westmontparks.org/event/sidewalk-art-contest-4.

Cosley Conservation Day

Wheaton

From 10 a.m.-2 p.m. at Cosley Zoo, 1356 N. Gary Avel, enjoy a day with local conservation organizations, participating in activities, and visiting with the animals. Admission: free. For more information, visit: https://cosleyzoo.org/

AANHPI celebration

Aurora

From 1-4 p.m. at Pacifica Square, 4334 E. New York St., a celebration of Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) Heritage Month. This annual event celebrates the rich cultural diversity of the AANHPI community and highlights the many contributions that individuals of AANHPI heritage have made to society. A perfect event for guests interested in learning more about these cultures and heritages. The program will feature cultural performances, guest speakers, and interactive activities for all ages. Free. For more information, visit: https:// pacificasquare.com/eventsandoffers

Cultural crossroads celebration, Elmhurst

From 1-5 p.m. at the Elmhurst History Museum, 120 E. Park Ave., enjoy a colorful celebration of cultural diversity featuring an array of exciting performances and interactions with special guests. View the In Pursuit of Happiness exhibit on its closing weekend and participate in family-friendly activities outdoors (weather permitting) and in the Education Center. Watch an amazing performance by the Illinois Shaolin Kung Fu Academy, a group of multiage martial artists who perform at Chicago Bulls games and across Chicagoland. Encounter students from York High School’s International Club, and meet representatives from the Xilin Association and Immigrant Solidarity DuPage. Free. For more information, visit: www.elmhursthistory.org

Saturday, May 13 and Sunday, May 14

Mother’s Day wine and cupcake pairing, Roselle

From 11 a.m.-5 p.m. both days at Lynfred Winery, 15 S. Roselle Road, Celebrate mom with a wine and cupcake pairing. We’re pairing up with candy from SmallCakes CupCakery for a sweet union of wine and sweets. Enjoy a flight of three wines with three cupcakes, including lemon drop, pink chocolate, and hot fudge sundae. Enjoy our suggested wine flight, or create your own from our May tasting menu. Reservations are required. Price: $20 per person members, $25 nonmembers. For more information, visit: www.lynfredwinery.com/events/mothers-day-weekend-wine-cupcake-pairing

Sunday, May 14

Fishing with Mom

Lombard

From 10 a.m.-noon at Hidden Lakes Forest Preserve, 3201 Route 53, Spend the morning by the lake with the moms in your life, creating memories and learning skills to increase your fishing successes. All ages welcome. Cost: $5 per person.

For more information, visit: https:// anc.apm.activecommunities.com/ fpddc/activity/search

Mother’s Day mini-golf Lombard

From noon-9 p.m. at Enchanted Castle, 1103 S. Main St., Moms, “be our guest” on Mothers’ Day and receive your free round of miniature golf. Valid on Mother’s Day for moms accompanied by one of their children or grandchildren. Cost varies with other attractions at Enchant-

ed Castle. Free to enter. For more information, visit: https://enchanted. com/

Mother’s Day brunches

• Seven Bridges Golf Club, Woodridge—Call 630-964-7784

• Reserve 22, Village Links of Glen Ellyn—Call 630-469-5550

• Arrowhead Golf Club, Wheaton—Call 630-653-5802

• Pinstripes, Oak Brook—Call 630-575-8700

• Drury Lane Theater & Events,

Oakbrook Terrace—Call 630-5308300

Thursday, May 18Saturday, May 20

Native plant sale Oak Brook

At the Mayslake Peabody Estate, 1717 W. 31st St., shop in person for native flowers, grasses, shrubs, and trees. Over 160 species—five new for 2023. Plant experts to answer your questions and make recommendation. Rain or shine.

CONCESSIONS $CASH ONLY$

FREE FUN ACTIVITIES: GOODIE BAGS, CRAFTS, FACE PAINTING & MORE!

Community calendar

Thursday, May 18

From 6-10 p.m. United Community Concerns Association (UCCA) will hold “Taste of the Town: Dining for a Cause,” an Elmhurst food and drink sampling, at Wilder Mansion. The evening will showcase food, wine, and beer tastings from 15 Elmhurst businesses and live music. Tickets are $75 in advance and $80 at the door. Advance tickets can be purchased online at ucca-elmhurst. org or by mail at UCCA, P.O. Box 324, Elmhurst, 60126.

Saturday, May 20

• From 8:30 a.m.-1 p.m., the Crestview Garden Club will hold its annual plant sale at The Depot at Wild Meadows Trace, 511 S. York Street (at the Prairie Path). Perennials, herbs, ground covers, houseplants, butterflies, hummingbirds, honey, wind chimes, birdhouses. Checks, cash, major CCs accepted.

• The 30th annual Spring Road Pet Parade will take place, starting off from the Wild Meadows Trace Gazebo on Spring Road at the Prairie Path. Sign up at 11:30 a.m., 1 p.m. Parade begins. Awards for pet contests, vendors, food (cash only) and crafts. To register, go to springroad.com/ourevents/. Free and open to the public.

• From 1-2:15 p.m., the Elmhurst Art Museum is hosting a walking tour of the Superheroes public art installation in Wilder Park, featuring some of the artists. Tickets: $20 or $15 for EAM members. Info: elmhurstartmuseum.org.

Elmhurst History Museum

CLOSING Sunday, May 14: In Pursuit of Happiness: Immigrants in Our Communities is the current exhibit at the Elmhurst History Museum which explores the journeys of area immigrants and their descendants who have carved out a sense of cultural identity and belonging in this region. Info: elmhursthistory.org or 630-833-1457.

Elmhurst Art Museum

If you missed Art in Wilder Park, it’s not too late to view the Elmhurst Art Museum’s Superheroes outdoor art installation, which will remain in Wilder Park through Sunday, Aug. 20. It was done in conjunction with the upcoming exhibit the future, Marvelocity; The Art of Alex Ross opens Saturday, June 3.

The Elmhurst Art Guild’s Inspired by Warhol begins Saturday, June 11; and, Picasso: Fifty Years Later goes public, beginning Saturday, Sept. 9. Info: elmhurstartmuseum.org or 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 found 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: lizzadromuseum.org.

Food bank feeding neighbors for 40 years

One woman’s vision now helps 13 Illinois counties

By Jane Charmelo STAFF REPORTER

When Rosemarie Burian saw people going hungry in her own community, the Wheaton Franciscan nun made it her mission to make sure they had access to food; what started out as the Bethlehem Center has evolved to become the Northern Illinois Food Bank (NIFB).

When Sister Rosemarie began looking for ways to feed her neighbors experiencing food insecurity, she was told, “We don’t need a food pantry here; there is no hunger in DuPage County,” the NIFB website relates.

However, in the first month of the Bethlehem Center’s operation, the food bank delivered 7,000 pounds of food.

The Bethlehem Center started out in a small warehouse in Carol Stream (1983). The NIFB now has a roughly 150,000-square-foot distribution center in Geneva (2011), with three smaller “satellite” centers in Lake Forest (2001), Rockford (2005) and

Joliet (2018). Where the food is distributed

Today, the NIFB—affiliated with the national Feeding America network—works with more than 900 food pantries, soup kitchens and feeding programs, providing 78 million meals a year to neighbors who reside in the 13 counties served by the food bank, according to NIFB figures from fiscal year 2022 (July 1, 2021, through June 30, 2022).

Maeven Sipes, NIFB chief philanthropy officer, said there are about 400 pantries, shelters and soup kitchens, and 500 program partners that utilize the food bank, such as after-school and in-school programs, senior sites, mobile markets (food trucks) and health care partners.

Sipes described that the food bank looks to areas where there are not affordable food-purchasing options/ grocery stores, and “we fill in those gaps.”

Where the food comes from

“We get a little over 60 percent [of our food] donated from retailers,

manufacturers and farmers,” Sipes explained, and the food is distributed through the four NIFB locations.

NIFB figures show that the food bank purchases about 25 percent of the food it distributes, and about 10 percent comes from the government through the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA).

How the food bank gets funding

Over 70 percent of the food bank’s revenue comes from 35,000 individuals, corporations, foundations and organizations, and Sipes emphasized that for every dollar donated, the food bank can purchase $8 worth of food.

However, costs have increased over pre-pandemic prices: Increased food costs and supply chain issues have been contributing factors, the NIFB states.

“Because we get so much donated food, we can still stretch the dollars,” Sipes added optimistically.

Sister Rosemarie Burian (1936-2019), was instrumental in starting a food bank, then called the Bethlehem Center. She is shown (above left) in 1983, and later with Julie Yurko, (above right)president and CEO of the Northern Illinois Food Bank, which grew out of the sister’s vision to feed hungry neighbors. “We are so grateful to our founder, Sister Rosemarie, past and present board members, our donors, volunteers and community partners,” Yurko stated in a press release.

resources “go directly to the programs that feed our neighbors,” according to Katie Heraty, NIFB media relations director.

How the food gets where it needs to go

“We rely on nearly 1,000 volunteers every week at our four centers and programs,” Sipes narrated.

Fortunately, she continued, “We have amazing support. We get a great response.”

and other necessities, “The need is still high.”

“There are over 50 percent more neighbors than pre-pandemic” utilizing the food bank’s resources and programs, Sipes added.

She was emphatic in saying there is “nothing to be ashamed of at the time that you need them [a food pantry].”

The Northern Illinois Food Bank in Geneva provides 78 million meals a year throughout the 13 counties it serves (Boone, DeKalb, DuPage, Grundy, Kane, Kankakee, Kendall, Lake, McHenry, Ogle, Stephenson, Will, Winnebago), and distributes perishable and non-perishable food to 450,000 neighbors each month.

The food bank also raises money through its “A Cup of Hope” afternoon tea in March, the “Fight Hunger 5K/10K Run/Walk” in April, “A Taste that Matters” in June and the “Hunger Scramble” golf outing in August.

Ninety-seven percent of the NIFB

“We’re working hard,” she added.

How to find assistance

Sipes observed that even though the COVID-19 pandemic has eased, now, post-COVID-19, more neighbors are shopping at food banks or receiving other food program services.

She outlined that with emergency SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) benefit allotments having ended in March, unemployment, and increasing costs for food

“We encourage people to utilize the food pantries,” Sipes summed up. For detailed information on the Northern Illinois Food Bank, including locating food banks and programs, visit SolveHungerToday.org.

To access the online “My Pantry Express,” visit mypantryexpress.org.

How you can help

To make a donation or to volunteer, you can find information at SolveHungerToday.org.

“We’re always encouraging community support,” Sipes noted.

Kiwanis holds annual free pancake breakfast on Saturday

Elmhurst Kiwanis Club’s 69th annual free pancake breakfast and Mother’s Day Plant sale will be held on Saturday, May 13 from 7 to 11 a.m. at the Elmhurst American Legion THB Post 187, 310 W. Butterfield Rd. Bring the family for a free pancake breakfast and purchase plants for your garden or to give as gifts. There will be quality hanging plants for your home, as well as those for your yard or garden.

From 9 to 10:30 a.m., have your picture taken with Mickey Mouse, superheroes, princesses, and other

characters, provided by Costumers With A Cause. There will be student musicians, celebrity pancake flippers and servers, and raffle prizes. The breakfast is free, but donations are graciously accepted.

The Kiwanis Club of Elmhurst performs many community service projects to help and serve children. If you are interested in performing community service and helping children in Elmhurst, please visit k01968.site.kiwanis.org. Check out the Club Information Page or the Activities Calendar for more information.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF NIFB Elmhurst Independent

ICGS shine at DI state, head to global finals

Immaculate Conception grade school (ICGS) had four Destination Imagination teams compete at the Il-

linois State Championships in March at Northern Illinois University (NIU). All of the ICGS Destination

Imagination Teams earned an award or qualified to compete at the Global Finals.

Team “InDIana Jones”, consisting of ICGS sixth and seventh graders, earned second place at the Destination Imagination State Tournament, Scientific Division, securing an invitation to the Global Finals in May.

Comprised of three ICGS fifth graders, the ICGS Destination Imagination Team “The Three Improvineers” took first place in the Improv Division for the Destination Imagination State Tournament and qualified for the Global Finals in Kansas City on May 20-23.

“The Beanstalkers”, an ICGS Destination Imagination team of 7th graders, earned second place in the Fine Arts division and will compete at the Global Finals in Kansas City on May 20-23.

First United Methodist to host Juneteenth event

The First United Methodist Church of Elmhurst, 232 S. York St., is holding a Juneteenth Celebration on Sunday, June 18, from 10:30 a.m. to 12 noon. The event is open to everyone, it can be seen in the Elmhurst Independent and on the underpass on

Robert Palmer Dr.

There will be live music, food, guest speakers and activities for kids of all ages.

The event will be held on the front lawn of the church, weather permitting.

SUBMITTED PHOTO Elmhurst Independent

The ICGS Destination Imagination Team “DI Dynamite,” comprised of third and fourth graders wins “The Renaissance Award” at the DI state tournament for technical design and engineering.

LEGAL NOTICES

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING TOWNSHIP BUDGET

Notice is hereby given that a Tentative Budget and Appropriation Ordinance for the York Township, DuPage County, Illinois, for the fiscal year beginning April 1, 2023, and ending March 31, 2024, will be on file and conveniently available to public inspection at York Township, 1502 S. Meyers Rd, Lombard from and after April 10, 2023.

Notice is further given that a public hearing on said Budget and Appropriation Ordinance will be at 7:30 P.M. on June 13, 2023, at York Township 1502 S. Meyers Rd., Lombard and that final action on this ordinance will be taken at a meeting to be held on June 13, 2023, immediately following public hearing.

Dated this 8th day of May 2023

Anthony A. Cuzzone

York Township Clerk

(Published in the Addison Independent, Bensenville Independent, Villa Park Review & Elmhurst Independent May 11, 2023) 437366

NOTICE

CERTIFICATE NO. 79059 was filed in the office of the County Clerk of DuPage County on APRIL 18, 2023, wherein the business firm of BENJAMIN L. BAKOS DBA POCKET BURN USA LOCATED AT 428 E ATEWATER AVENUE, 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) BENJAMIN L BAKOS, HOME ADDRESS 428 E ATWATER AVENUE, ELMHURST, IL 60126.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and Official Seal at my office in Wheaton, Illinois, this 18TH day of APRIL, A.D. 2023.

JEAN KACZMAREK Jean Kaczmarek DuPage County Clerk

(OFFICIAL SEAL)

(Published in The Elmhurst Independent April 27, May 4 & 11, 2023) 436527

NOTICE

CERTIFICATE NO. 79068 was filed in the office of the County Clerk of DuPage County on APRIL 24, 2023, wherein the business firm of CRONOS HANDYMAN HVAC LOCATED AT 624 W. SUNSET DRIVE, VILLA PARK, IL 60181 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) HERNAN GARCIA, HOME ADDRESS 624 W. SUNSET DRIVE, VILLA PARK, IL 60181. IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and Official Seal at my office in Wheaton, Illinois, this 24TH day of APRIL, A.D. 2023.

JEAN KACZMAREK Jean Kaczmarek DuPage County Clerk (OFFICIAL SEAL)

(Published in The Elmhurst Independent May 4, 11 & 18, 2023)

436864

NOTICE

CERTIFICATE NO. 79070 was filed in the office of the County Clerk of DuPage County on APRIL 25, 2023, wherein the business firm of J.T.S. CONSTRUCTION SERVICE LOCATED AT 329 EAST MAY STREET, 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) JAMES TAYLOR, HOME ADDRESS 329 EAST MAY STREET, ELMHURST, IL 60126.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and Official Seal at my office in Wheaton, Illinois, this 25TH day of APRIL, A.D. 2023.

JEAN KACZMAREK Jean Kaczmarek

DuPage County Clerk (OFFICIAL SEAL)

(Published in The Elmhurst Independent May 4, 11 & 18, 2023) 436837

*FAST DELIVERY* MULCH AND TOPSOIL

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

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EDGEWOOD AVE., LOMBARD, Friday only, 5/12, 9am3pm. Furniture, kitchen items, outdoor furniture, tools, outdoor yard tools and lots more!

Let’s go already

These dogs are apparently ready to go look at the art on display they attempt to pull their owner away from her smartphone and on to the attractions! It was a beautiful day on Sunday, May 7, the second day of Art in Wilder Park, which may account for the many dogs seen out with their owners.

Gone to the dogs

One couldn’t help but notice a plethora of dogs leading their owners around Art in Wilder Park on a beautiful sunny Sunday afternoon.

The only way to ride

The best way to tour around Art in Wilder Park is being pushed in a wagon like this little one. It was a beautiful day for a ride around Wilder Park on Sunday afternoon, no matter what you ride or drive.

A good fit

No need to be blue

These two kids enjoy some blue ice cream at Art in Wilder Park over the weekend. It offers a memory they will take home with them – a blue tongue.

DEE LONGFELLOW PHOTOS Elmhurst Independent

This young man holds up a tie-dyed creation he considers the size and fit. That’s one thing about Art at Wilder Park – no dressing rooms.

DEE LONGFELLOW PHOTOS Elmhurst Independent

Sport S

IC Catholic Prep girls soccer team helps Feed My Starving Children Knights packed 147 boxes at Schaumburg facility

By Mike Miazga CORRESPONDENT

The IC Catholic Prep girls soccer team had an idea for giving back to the community and it ran with it. All Knights coach Antonio Godinez had to do was drive the bus.

The Knights spent some time last month at the Feed My Starving Children facility in Schaumburg, helping pack meals for those in need around the world. According to its website, FMSC’s process is simple. Donations fund the meal ingredients and volunteers, such as ICCP’s girls soccer team, hand-pack the meals. Meals are donated to FMSC food partners around the world. To date, more than 3.5 billion meals have been packed to date.

“I got the idea from a conversation I had with my dad,” ICCP senior Ashley Zwolinski said. “We were talking about meaningful life experiences and brought up Feed My Starving Children. The captains and I had been looking for a team bonding event for the team and it seemed perfect. It’s one thing to be a team on the field, but it’s another to have chemistry off the field as a group.”

“The girls researched it, communicated it to the team and spearheaded it,” Godinez said. “We have a lot of great leaders on this team. They had the want and the desire to do it. All I did was the buses.”

Zwolinski said she had some previous familiarity with the charitable organization. “We went to Feed My Starving Children for a school service day last year, and we felt that it

really got our classmates closer, so we knew it would be a good way for the soccer team to volunteer together. Having a team dinner is one thing, but doing service together really got us that stronger connection.”

The ICCP girls soccer team ended up packing 147 boxes, which equates to 31,752 meals, Zwolinski noted. “We packed boxes to be sent to underprivileged communities in third-world countries,” ICCP sophomore Maura Grogan explained. “One of the biggest things about Feed My Starving Children is they help people everywhere who are in need. They don’t really help one country. They send their food to many different countries.”

Grogan added the thing she liked best about the outing was the simple premise of giving back to people who are in need. “It was amazing to experience with our whole team and it really helped us connect on another level,” she said.

Junior Avery Berschel added, “What I liked most about it is how we were able to do something that was bigger than just our IC community. It was an opportunity to build up our chemistry as a team because we each did a different task of either scooping grains, packing a bag, etc. We were also able to take our competitive quality that we show on the field and sort of tie it in at Feed My Starving Children. We competed on who can pack the most boxes. It was a fun way to spend time together as a team while also giving back to those in need.”

York softball team faring well in conference play Dukes getting contributions from all phases

By Mike Miazga CORRESPONDENT

The results inside the West Suburban Conference Silver Division have been favorable for the York softball team. Through late last week the Dukes were 4-2 in conference action and 7-11 overall. York still has an intense game against Downers Grove North to continue (tied 5-5 heading into the 12th inning when it was suspended; will be continued May 16). “After starting conference play on April 18 against Downers Grove North, we have come alive,” York coach Lisa Fraticola said. “The combination of our pitching, solid defense and an eager offense has put us on top of some tough conference teams.”

Fraticola noted sophomores Avery Kanouse and Taylor McMillen are leading the way in the pitching circle, while seniors Madison Peck, Maddie Tran, sophomore Eliana Garcia and freshman Lily Burda have been leading the team offensively over the last two weeks. Kanouse leads the pitching staff with a 3.50 ERA and has 83 strikeouts over 68 innings. Behind the plate, Garcia has caught two runners stealing through 44 innings of work and is also hitting .333. Peck is hitting .373 with 19 hits in 51 at-bats, while Tran is at .291 with 16 hits. Burda is hitting .327 with 17 hits.

“Since starting conference play, our offense has been aggressive and tough at the plate,” Fraticola said. “The team has been capitalizing with runners on and moving them into scoring position. The girls’ positive attitudes are encouraging, and they fight for every opportunity to compete.”

Fraticola noted Maggie Demopoulos and Mariann Blass also have been keys of late. “Maggie has been a solid defender, knocking down balls to limit the number of bases hitters are getting on any given play,” she said. “Mariann has been a huge defender for us (.947 fielding percentage).” Blass also is hitting .300 with 15 hits.

“As a team, we are working on continuing to stay consistent on defense and putting the ball in play,” Fraticola said. “Moving runners and capitalizing on our opportunities to score runners on base has been a large focus for our team since the start of the season. Our offense is improving each game and is using a positive mindset and confidence in the box to get the job done.”

York was scheduled to play St. Charles North and Oak Park-River Forest earlier this week. The Dukes face Proviso West for senior day on Friday and head to Park Ridge to face Maine South in a doubleheader on Saturday.

Timothy Christian boys tennis team continues to thrive

By Mike Miazga CORRESPONDENT

There has been no slowing down for the Timothy Christian boys tennis team. Coach Keith Mills’ squad was 18-2 overall and 3-1 in Metro Suburban Conference action through late last week. Recent highlights include a second-place showing at the Champaign Charger doubles invitational where Elliot Mathew and Elliott Tandy took second at No. 2 doubles, while Luke Tuscherer and Nico

Milak took second at No. 3 doubles.

Austin Zeilstra and Andrew Asmus took second at No. 4 doubles.

Timothy also scored a key 4-1 win over conference rival Wheaton Academy. Tandy won 6-0, 7-6 in his match, coming back from being down 5-2 in the first set. Tommy Kunz and Hendrick DeVries were 6-0, 6-1 winners at No. 1 doubles in what coach Keith Mills said was “a convincing win at first doubles,” he said.

Through late last week, Mathew, a junior, was 13-5 at No. 1 singles. Tandy, a ninth-grader, was 17-3 with time spent at No. 2 doubles and No. 2 singles. DeVries and Kunz were 14-5 at No. 1 doubles. “Our doubles teams have become more aggressive,” Mills said. “Overall, serving is becoming more consistent.”

On the doubles front Zeilstra, a junior, and Milak, a senior, have

The IC Catholic Prep girls soccer team packed 147 boxes during its time at the Feed My Starving Children facility in Schaumburg, which equates to 31,752 meals.

SUBMITTED PHOTOS Elmhurst Independent

The IC Catholic Prep girls soccer team recently spent time at the Feed My Starving Children facility in Schaumburg helping pack meals for those in need around the world.

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

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

By Mike Miazga CORRESPONDENT

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

The wins have come in abundance for the IC Catholic Prep softball team this season. Through late last week, the Knights were a robust 17-2 overall and 7-0 in Metro Suburban Conference Blue Division play. ICCP scored a recent 12-5 conference win over Riverside-Brookfield and an 8-6 MSC Blue win over Aurora Central Catholic, plus recorded a victory over Aurora Christian.

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

week,” she said. “We are going to be starting tournaments again. Before that I haven’t been doing anything because senior soccer season and the club volleyball season were cancelled. We were supposed to go to a few club volleyball qualifiers in Grand Rapids and Louisville.

That’s one of the reasons why they are looking at moving the season to the spring. Right now the plan is to have a season, but we won’t know until the next 7-10 days.”

IC Catholic Prep softball team continues to pile up wins Knights wrapping up regular-season play this week

This summer, we have some tournaments planned over the next few weekends. They are little tournaments with all of the local clubs. Nothing large and really local. Other than that, I have been trying to work out a lot and stay in shape.

I’ve been running a lot, so I got into that. I try and run every day.”

with 29 hits, 12 doubles, one triple, five homers, 22 runs scored and 25 RBI, while junior Kayla Carrillo was at .556 with 35 hits, two doubles, five triples, 20 runs scored and 28 RBI. Senior Riley Venn was hitting .545 with 36 hits, 10 doubles, two triples, 30 runs scored and 24 RBI. “Analisa, Anjelina, Kayla and Riley all have been hitting consistently and their defense has been solid,” ICCP coach Sarah Palandri said.

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

• Stopka

Offensively, junior Analisa Raffaelli leads the way for the Knights. She was hitting .603 with 35 hits, seven doubles, one triple, seven home runs, 38 runs scored, 25 RBI and 22 stolen bases through late last week. Junior Anjelina Dwyer was hitting .569

(Continued from page 18)

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

• Tennis

Stopka will teach Spanish at York. He taught Spanish and one math class at St. Pat’s. “My philosophy is I am more of a players’ coach,” he said.

Dwyer also was lauded for her work on the mound. “Angelina has also battled back pitching-wise in some of our recent games,” Palandri said. Palandri said the Knights have been focused on spreading the offensive wealth more throughout games.

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

(Continued from page 20)

stepped things up at No. 3 doubles and are “starting to become a tough tandem,” Mills noted.

“I have been a big Liverpool soccer supporter ever since 2015 when Jurgen Klopp came over and he’s known as a players’ coach. He’s kind of my coaching idol. I want to related to the players and form bonds with them.

Mills also is high on the recent play of Asmus, a junior. “Andrew has improved his game with more consistency to go along with his power game.” Asmus has a 13-5 record at No. 2 doubles.

Heading into the home stretch, Mills likes how his lineup is performing. “Our lineup is deep and we can pick up wins at all positions. There are no weak links,” he

am more light-hearted and smiling. I like to have fun and joke with the kids. The goal is understanding where each player can be successful and the provide the best way possible to convey the knowledge they need at the position they play. I am not big at yelling at the group, and I’m not a

said.

York boys tennis

The York boys tennis team was 10-6-3 overall in dual meets through late last week. The Dukes wrapped up dual action earlier this week against Metea Valley. The Dukes were 2-3 through their first five West Suburban Conference Silver Division duals. York heads to the WSC Silver tournament this weekend.

In recent action, the Dukes were

Stopka noted York has been doing conditioning drills and said the plan as of earlier last week was to start summer camp pending District 205 approval. “I have probably been able to meet 60 to 70 percent of the players so far,” he said. “If it does get approved that would be the start of our contact days with four days a week for three weeks straight. And even though the IHSA waived the blackout dates before the school year, we won’t take advantage of that. I’m pretty sure families have plans to do things before school starts. I’m the new guy and I’m not going to say you can’t go with your family. Go do it and enjoy it. This is a crazy and goofy time. You have to be accessi-

“In some of our recent games, we have scored all our runs in the first few innings, but nothing after that,” she said.

“We need to be more consistent in our scoring so that we can have a more comfortable lead.”

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

The Knights, who recently held their own softball tournament at Plunkett Park in town, were scheduled to face Riverside-Brookfield and Bishop McNamara in conference games earlier this week before continuing a suspended conference game against St. Francis yesterday.

tional seed in the Class 2A Westmont regional. The Knights will face either Chicago Noble/Rauner or Chicago Noble/Golder on Tuesday, May 16 in the semifinals of the IC Catholic

U12 baseball action

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

Prep regional at Plunkett Park Diamond No. 3. If the Knights win that game, they will face either Westmont or Chicago Dyett for the regional title on Friday, May 19 at Plunkett.

Player

ICCP is scheduled to host St. Francis Thursday and then head to the Rockridge Spring Classic tournament in Rock Island over the weekend.

ble and transparent and communicate with everybody.”

ICCP also earned a No. 1 sub-sec-

4-3 winners over Downers Grove South, lost 5-2 to Hinsdale Central and scored a 7-0 win over Willowbrook.

Through late last week, Nate Yu had a 13-9 record, while the doubles team of Anthony Arnieri and Brennen Maxeiner had a record of 8-5. The team of Kieran Goldstein and Jason DeMott also had an 8-5 mark. “Our team continues to play competitively and stays focused in matches,” York coach Courtney Bison said.

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

Quinn recently scored two goals and added an assist to help the York girls soccer team record a 4-1 West Suburban Conference Silver Division win over Hinsdale Central. The Dukes also found out they are the No. 2 seed in the upcoming Reavis sectional.

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.

CHRIS FOX PHOTO Elmhurst Independent

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All

All Registration will be done online!

York girls soccer team defeats Hinsdale Central

Dukes earn No. 2 seed in Class 3A Burbank Reavis sectional

By Mike Miazga CORRESPONDENT

The York girls soccer team moved to 4-1 in West Suburban Conference

Silver Division action after a recent 4-1 win over Hinsdale Central. The win moved the Dukes to 11-3-1 overall.

Finley Ewald scored York’s first goal at the 30-minute mark, while Michaela Quinn scored the first of

her two goals 50 minutes in. Maggie Quinn scored in the 64th minute, while Quinn capped the scoring 67 minutes in. Hannah Meyers, Mia Barton, Michaela Quinn and Maggie Quinn each had an assist.

York also dropped a 2-0 WSC Silver game to Lyons Township. Lyons didn’t score its first goal until 12 minutes were left in regulation.

Through late last week, Ewald was leading the Dukes in scoring with 15 goals and three assists. Michaela Quinn had six goals and six assists, while Meyers had four goals and nine assists. Maggie Quinn had four goals and eight assists. “In the

last few practices, we have stressed the importance of communication and organizing early,” Dukes coach Stefan Dobric explained. “The team has done an excellent job of giving each other useful, positive feedback. This communication allows the girls to anticipate situations as a collective group.”

Dobric said both Michaela and Maggie Quinn have been “outstanding in the final third,” he said. “These girls bring speed and dynamic attacking movements that can really challenge defenders.” Dobric also lauded the efforts of Ava Hansmann on numerous fronts. “Ava also has

been great not only on defense, but as an attacking threat sending dangerous balls into the box,” he said.

Dobric said work on that important communication aspect continues. “Communication is something that can always be improved upon,” he said. “It is one of the most difficult aspects of the game for players to master, but this group has made massive strides already.”

York was scheduled to play Willowbrook earlier this week in a WSC crossover right before hosting Downers Grove North for senior night and the final WSC Silver contest of the season.

York recently earned the No. 2 seed in the Class 3A Burbank Reavis sectional (Lyons Township is the top seed). York plays Proviso West or Chicago Hubbard next Wednesday (May 17) at Morton High School west campus in Berwyn. If York wins, it will play either the host Mustangs or Willowbrook for the Morton regional title next Friday at 6 p.m.

“This group never gives up and always pushes each other to the next level,” Dobric said.

“I am proud to be their coach. It is always enjoyable to coach a team that is hungry to get better on a daily basis.”

Timothy Christian girls soccer team ready for playoffs Drye looking to rebreak school single-season goal-scoring record

By Mike Miazga CORRESPONDENT

The Timothy Christian girls soccer team is playing well heading into the start of this week’s Class 1A state playoffs.

The Trojans were 11-4-2 overall and 4-1 in Metro Suburban Conference Blue Division action.

Timothy had an identical 11-4 record heading into last year’s playoffs, coach Jon Hamelinck noted.

Timothy, the No. 1 seed in one sub-sectional of its own Class 1A sectional, opened playoff action earlier this week against No. 7 seed Chicago Phoenix Military Acad -

emy in the Chicago Hope Academy regional held at Altgeld Park in Chicago (515 S. Washtenaw). If Timothy won that game, it will play either Lisle (No. 4 seed) or Hope Academy (No. 6 seed) for the regional title Friday at Altgeld Park for the regional title.

In recent action, the Trojans were 7-0 winners over Rosary.

Angie Tornabene had three goals and one assist, while Maddie Drye had one goal and two assists.

Hope Huizenga had a goal and two assists, while Mili Martens had two goals. Timothy also downed Westmont 13-3 in a recent game.

Through late last week, Drye was leading the team with 24 goals and 10 assists.

Tornabene had 14 goals and eight assists, while Huizenga had an identical 14-goal and eight-assist ledger.

“We’re scoring goals in a lot of different ways and our chemistry has improved,” Hamelinck said. “We’ve responded to adversity well throughout the season and look to continue to take steps forward as a team heading into the playoffs. Several girls have stepped up to play big minutes because we have been dealing with some injuries,

and they’ve played very well for us.”

Hamelinck applauded the recent work of Emily White and Victoria Nation, in particular. “Emily had Victoria have been playing big minutes lately, filling in spots for some of our injured players and have played extremely well,” he said.

Drye also continues her elite play. She had 13 goals and four assists during a recent eight-game stretch. She is looking to break her own Timothy single-season goal-scoring record of 28 goals (established last year). She would need

Athlete of the Month Athlete of the Month

five more during this playoff run to rebreak it. “Maddie continues to fill up the stat sheet,” Hamelinck said. Hamelinck added the Trojans have been hard at work fine-tuning their game prior to the playoffs “We can get a little disconnected at times and stop making runs off the ball,” he said. “When the girls are engaged, we do this very well and we can dominate possession. When we don’t, we look a little flat and some bad habits creep into our game. We are looking to continue to improve the speed of our decision-making and to play a little quicker.”

Brynn Laluya

Congratulations to Brynn Laluya, our May Student of the Month! Brynn is a Junior and a steady force on the 8-3 ICCP Girls’ Soccer Team. Brynn’s versatility on the field has been pivotal to the Knights’ success and has two goals and two assists this season. The team looks to repeat last year’s success in the playoffs this season. Good luck to Brynn and to the ICCP Girls’ Soccer Team!

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