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1 • Thursday, May 15, 2025 - The Elmhurst Independent

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Elmhurst Extreme Orange 12-U team wins tournament in Missouri The 12-U Elmhurst Extreme Orange baseball team traveled to Branson, Missouri, earlier this month to play in a tournament at Ballparks of America (BOA), which is known for hosting youth teams with its true replica Major League Baseball fields. The team went a perfect 4-0 in Branson to win the tournament title. The members of the 12-U Extreme Orange team, pictured (left to right) with their cham-

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pionship rings and team banner in Branson, are: (front row) Chase Olsen, Liam Northern, AJ Fleming, Tommy Skattum, Ryan Kocinski and Brandon Crouch (MVP of the tournament); (middle row) Andrew Boeh, Logan Osbolt, Ricky Kohler, Aiden Alarcon, Jack Steinecker and Tyler Langenstrass; (back row) Coach Steinecker, Coach Osbolt, Coach Boeh, Manager Fleming and Coach Kocinski.

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AAUW Elmhurst Area Branch awards scholarships The American Association of University Women (AAUW) Elmhurst Area Branch, NFP awarded three $4,500 scholarships at its annual spring luncheon on Saturday, May 3, at the River Forest Country Club.

This year’s recipients are Rebecca Morales, an English as a Second Language teacher at York High School; Angelica Castro Frias, a student at North Park University; and Alma Funes, a student at College of DuPage. The three were chosen from a field of 21 candidates who are continuing their education or returning to school.

Morales, a global education advocate with more than 20 years experience teaching English in the United States,

United Kingdom, and Mexico, is pursuing her Doctorate in Curriculum and Instruction at Northern Illinois University.

She is a teacher trainer and author who has worked with Fulbright students, directed school international clubs, led an exchange program in Costa Rica, and hosted exchange students and teachers. She has provided professional development workshops to District 205 faculty.

Castro Frias began her college career at College of DuPage in 2022 and her university studies in January. She is working toward a bachelor’s degree in business. She has helped to finance her education by starting a home bakery business. In addition, she

has used her ability to speak Spanish to help community members with tax preparation. Upon completion of her degree, she wants to start her own business.

Funes is pursuing her Bachelor of Science degree in nursing. She works as a Certified Nurse Assistant to pay for her college education. Since Funes is bilingual she hopes to help people and advocate for her non English speaking patients as they navigate the health care system.

The AAUW Elmhurst Area Branch raises funds from its annual book sale to support the scholarship program. This year’s book sale will be held June 26-29 at Sandburg Middle School, 345 E. St. Charles Road.

SUBMITTED PHOTO Elmhurst Independent

The AAUW Elmhurst Area Branch, NFP recently awarded $4,500 scholarships to three women in need of financial assistance to continue their education at the graduate or undergraduate level. Pictured (left to right) are Moira Murray, AAUW Elmhurst Area Branch president, with recipients Rebecca Morales and Angelica Castro Frias, and Josephine Mulvihill—the director of the branch’s Funds Committee. Not pictured is one of the three scholarship recipients—Alma Funes.

York Township sees changing of the guard New Democratic Township Supervisor: ‘Our goal is to continue and innovate new services’

FOR THE INDEPENDENT

After the Tuesday, April 1, election, voters saw a shift in color from red to blue among elected officials in York Township, both in the supervisor’s office and on the board.

Incumbent Township Supervisor John Valle lost to challenger Tim Murray (41.5 percent to 58.5 percent respectively, according to post-election results), and while Valle declined a request to comment for The Independent*, he did share his thoughts in the township’s Senior Sun Newsletter, from which The Independent was given permission to quote.

Valle first emphasized that “It has been my honor and privilege to have served as

Member FDIC

your supervisor throughout this journey of the past 20 years,” adding that some of the readers had likely been with him from the beginning.

Calling his loss and subsequent departure “bittersweet,” Valle said “I feel sad about a job I have loved so much, and happiness on the other hand, born of a sense of accomplishment, because our administration produced 20 years of fiscally responsible stewardship of township funds while continuously innovating, expanding and enhancing township programs and services.”

“We have left the new supervisor a township that is in excellent fiscal shape,” he continued, “as well as a building and property that is highly

functional and utilized, by the people and for the people …”

“I am going to miss serving you all on a daily basis,” Valle concluded, adding that as a York Township resident for over 45 years, “I plan to stay because I love it here. It’s my home!”

Incoming Supervisor Tim Murray said he decided to run for office in part because he had used some of the York Township services for family members and “came away with a feeling of ‘it could be better.’ ” He further said, “I have a desire to serve and give back for all the years of living in a community where I paid taxes, used the services directly and via my family, and progressed

in my career.”

Murray, who served on the board and as president of the York Center Community, also said he was encouraged to run.

He believes the shift from Republican to Democrat was due to the focus of the campaign – such as a shift in demographics.

“Some identify it as people moving from the city to the suburbs,” he continued. “Make no mistake, there is more blue in DuPage than in the past; the key is how to motivate those people in the municipal election cycle.

“For that, we focused on our tagline – ‘Frustrated Nationally-VOTE LOCALLY’ – and then our messaging of efficient use of tax dollars, transparen-

cy and innovating services …

People are very unhappy with Republican policies that are a big step away from our shared values as Americans.”

When asked to look ahead, Murray responded that the team intends to “listen to the people and provide what the township is charged with providing,” which he stated includes bringing services to the needy, maintaining the integrity of the assessor’s function and providing safe roads.

“We will make every attempt to be more modern in communication and thus transparent in our community,” he added.

As for how a township benefits residents, Murray said that with a threat of federal cuts to

social services, a township is “literally the focal point for people to access services, and for organizations, individual towns, social associations and others to funnel resources back into the community.”

Murray concluded by saying that “Change can be uncomfortable … however there is no plan to eliminate senior programs or the food pantry.

Our goal is to continue and innovate new services.

“As I get to know everyone, please say hello. Together we can be proud of York Township.” *Editor’s note: The Independent also reached out for comment from outgoing board member Rae Rupp Srch, but did not receive a response.

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The Elmhurst Independent - Thursday, May 15, 2025 • 3

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4 • Thursday, May 15, 2025 - The Elmhurst Independent

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

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The Elmhurst Independent print version is mailed to residents in the 60126 zip code with a paid donation. See inside this issue for an order form. Out-of-area mail subscriptions are $45.00 yearly. Single copies are also available at more than 80 newsstand locations in Elmhurst.

For home delivery information call 630-834-8244.

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Inaugural Twilight Trot 5K to be held May 31 Fundraiser to support four Elmhurst nonprofits

By Jane Charmelo FOR THE ELMHURST INDEPENDENT

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Dan Gibbons got to thinking about how there were children learning from home who might not be getting the breakfast or lunch they would have received while at school.

The founder of the Dan Gibbons Foundation, a 501(c)(3) organization, Gibbons recalled how he was talking with his executive assistant, Christine Fogarty, about that grim reality, and decided, “Let’s do something mid-year for our four Elmhurst [nonprofit] agencies,” who could in turn assist those children “whenever the kids are off school.”

“We decided we would do this [Twilight Trot],” he continued, although “It’s taken us a couple of years to get it off the ground.”

From Turkey to Twilight Gibbons is no stranger, though, to organizing fundraisers, because he also started the Dan Gibbons Turkey Trot 5K 41 years ago, which was first held on Nov. 22, 1984, donating over $4 million over the years.

As he tells it, one night in 1983, he was listening to late-

REPRINTED WITH PERMISSION Elmhurst Independent

The inaugural Twilight Trot 5K fundraiser on May 31 will be held on the original Turkey Trot course, starting at Arlington Avenue and South Street and going to the flagpole at Taft Avenue in Berkeley, then back to Elmhurst along the Illinois Prairie Path and finishing at the fountain. Proceeds will benefit four Elmhurst nonprofit agencies.

Food Pantry. night WGN talk show host Ed- I could volunteer next year or The event will be held on the die Schwartz, who mentioned a help in some way to help Eddie This is original Turkey Trot course, Good Neighbor Food Drive in raise some money.”

Thus, the inaugural Dan Gibstarting at Arlington Avenue the city—“I thought to myself, why we do bons Turkey Trot was born, he and South Street and going to what we do said, and 74 people participatthe flagpole at Taft Avenue in ed, raising a net of $520 that Berkeley, then back to Elm[and] educating was donated toward the food hurst along the Illinois Prairie myself about the Path and finishing at the foundrive—which was then passed on to the Chicago Anti Hunger tain. (See graphic). hunger problem Federation.

The Twilight Trot begins at just became a “I got educated on the hun6:30 p.m. Online registration, ger problem in the metropoliwhich is $35, is due by May 22 passion for me.” tan area” because of Schwartz, (DanGibbonsTwilightTrot.org) – Dan Gibbons to guarantee a T-shirt. Walk-in Gibbons said, but he thought his fundraiser would be a oneregistration and packet pickup and-done event. are on May 28 from 4-8 p.m. lated.

“That second event was nevEven during the COVID-19 at the Elmhurst Knights of Coer going to happen,” he contin- pandemic, “We kept it alive,” lumbus, 537 S. York St. T-shirts ued, in part because he had nei- Gibbons said, with a virtual will be limited at walk-in regther seed money nor sponsors to Turkey Trot. istration. make it work.

Gibbons said he wants the However, “There were actuHowever, serendipity ally people walking it on their event to put the “fun” in Fun stepped in when, one night, “A own,” he recalled with grati- Run and quipped, “Nobody’s friend of mine asked, ‘Are you tude. trying to qualify for [the] BosSUBMITTED PHOTO Elmhurst Independent going to do it again?’”

The original course was ton [Marathon].”

Gibbons said it was unlikely, held in the southern part of “Families can come. Bring but his friend, Sgt. Bob Jones Elmhurst, and 13 years ago it your kids,” he added. from the Elmhurst Police De- shifted north to downtown ElmRecalling a cold night in Department, became “our very hurst, Gibbons pointed out. cember when he heard a radio first sponsor,” arranging to get From 74 participants to now host talk about a food drive, “I him $250 and two other spon- between 7,000 and 8,000 par- believe I was supposed to be IC Catholic Prep congratulates its Class of 2025 sors, so the second annual Tur- ticipants, he said the Turkey listening to it that night,” GibMonsignor Plunkett Scholars. Students in the top key Trot 5K was on!

Trot 5K has had somewhat of a bons, a man of faith, comment10 percent of each graduating class receive the For the first 15 years, the domino effect in attracting new ed. school’s highest academic honor—the Monsignor beneficiary of the fundraiser participants.

And then, being in the right Plunkett Scholar Award—as determined by gradewas the Chicago Anti Hunger As a lifelong Elmhurst resi- place at the right time when his point average, course load and commitment to acFederation, but after its doors dent, “This is a hometown thing friend urged him to hold a secademic excellence. Pictured (left to right) are: (front closed, Gibbons turned his at- for me,” Gibbons said, thinking ond Turkey Trot also is etched row) Lizzie Cook (Immaculate Conception Grade tention to DuPage County. now about how some of the in his mind.

School; Elmhurst), Victoria Gonzalez (St. John Vian“We started to realize there children might not have enough “I’ve been blessed” with ney Catholic School; Northlake), Audrey Mulay (Viswas a hunger situation in Du- food to eat during the months wonderful volunteers, Gibbons itation Catholic School; Elmhurst) and James DeRPage County,” he lamented, when school is out. said. “We want to make sure we ose (St. Celestine Catholic School; Elmwood Park); adding, “It kind of blew my He said the recipients of the help stock the pantries.” (back row) Jacob Schierl (Immaculate Conception mind.”

“This is why we do what proceeds will be the Elmhurst Grade School; Elmhurst), Lilly Fisher (Westchester “Mary Keating, director of Walk-In Assistance Network, we do [and] educating myself Middle School; Westchester), Maggie Berigan (VisCommunity Services for Du- the United Community Con- about the hunger problem just itation Catholic School; Elmhurst) and Luke BeckPage County, helped us identify cerns Association, the Immac- became a passion for me.” man (Visitation Catholic School; Elmhurst). food banks and agencies to help ulate Conception Food Pantry For more information, visit our neighbors in need,” he re- and the Elmhurst/Yorkfield dangibbonstwilighttrot.org.

IC Catholic Prep’s Class of 2025 Monsignor Plunkett Scholars

“

The Elmhurst Independent - Thursday, May 15, 2025 • 5

Elmhurst University receives $1.5 million gift Money to fund first endowed chair in science, technology, analytics and math

Elmhurst University has announced a significant philanthropic gift that will establish the university’s first endowed faculty chair in science, technology, analytics and mathematics.

The anonymous donors, a

married couple with ties to the university, have established a $1.5 million estate commitment to create the endowed chair, which they hope will “help attract and retain brilliant scholars” in the sciences and mathematics. The donors

want their gift to highlight the importance of faculty research, which at Elmhurst usually includes students, as well as the role of excellent teaching in shaping students’ academic experience and long-term career goals.

“We are so pleased to recognize these exceptional donors and their transformative gift,” said Elmhurst University President Troy D. VanAken.

“Their commitment will leave a lasting impact by empowering Elmhurst faculty to in-

novate and discover through scholarship, and by inspiring our students to become the next generation of leaders in the critical STEM fields.”

One of the donors is an alumnus who graduated from Elmhurst with a degree in eco-

SUBMITTED PHOTO Elmhurst Independent

Published writers at IC Catholic Prep

IC Catholic Prep congratulates its Creative Writing students whose mystery stories were published by Young Writers USA. Pictured (left to right) are: (front row) Amanda Czerski, Ali Fromelt, Ari Zito, Sophia Arranaga, Ema McMillen, Josie Pfeiffer and Chloe Mazur; (back row) Landon West, George Katsigiannis, Jade Dimitrakos, Lucy Cook, Kelly Cahill, Sophie Schaeffer, Hannah Cira, Ashley Putz, Graziella Narcisi, Zach Spencer, KJ Reese and Makai Mandley. Not pictured is Oliver Valdez.

nomics, and both donors have had long and distinguished STEM-related careers, joining their fields—biotechnology and health care analytics— in their nascency.

As students, the donors were influenced by great teachers, and hope their gift will help ensure that future generations of students are similarly inspired.

“We’d like for whoever is appointed to the endowed chair to be someone with vision and curiosity, who can think beyond what they’re already doing and bring new knowledge and thinking to their work, and share that enthusiasm and passion with their students,” one of the donors said.

Once funded, the endowed chair would be awarded to a faculty member in the University’s School of Science, Technology and Mathematics.

“The gift reflects the success of our alumni, as well as the donors’ confidence in this school, its staying power and the work we’re doing,” said Brian Wilhite, dean of the School of Science, Technology and Mathematics. “We greatly appreciate their support and commitment to our faculty and students.”

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A record-breaking day at the 12th annual Fight Hunger Run/Walk

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More than 1,600 participants, plus volunteers, sponsors, food trucks and spectators gathered on Saturday, May 3, at Cantigny Park in Wheaton for Northern Illinois Food Bank’s largest annual awareness and fundraising event, the 12th annual Fight Hunger 10K, 5K, and 1-Mile Run/Walk, presented by ALDI. This year’s event marked a major milestone, drawing the highest attendance in its 12year history.

From 8:30 a.m. to noon, attendees enjoyed a festive morning of racing and celebration, with something for

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Yurko, and Jason Schultz representing ALDI shared inspiring remarks about the power of partnership in the fight against hunger and helped present awards to the race winners.

Northern Illinois Food Bank’s network of 900 food pantries, shelters, soup kitchens, senior sites and feeding programs serve 570K neighbors a month and provide 90 million meals a year to neighbors facing hunger in suburban and rural Northern Illinois.

For more information about how to give or get help, visit SolveHungerToday.org.

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everyone, including three scenic race routes, face painting, a kid zone, sponsor booths, free massages, giveaways, a gaming truck, and a variety of food trucks. The energy was high, and the impact even higher: all funds raised will be matched by US Foods, doubling the support for our neighbors facing hunger.

Approximately 96 percent of Northern Illinois Food Bank’s resources go directly to programs that feed our neighbors.

ALDI led the way with the largest team, 255 strong!

President & CEO of Northern Illinois Food Bank, Julie

Residents living in and around the Elmhurst area can learn about their risk for cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis, diabetes, and other chronic, serious conditions with affordable screenings by Life Line Screening.

Clarion Inn Hotel will host this community event on Friday, June 6. The hotel is located at 933 S Riverside Drive in

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• HDL and LDL Cholesterol levels • Diabetes risk • Kidney and thyroid function, and more

Screenings are affordable and convenient. Free parking is also available.

Special package pricing starts at $159, but consultants will work with you to create a package that is right for you based on your age and risk factors.

Call 1-877-237-1287 or visit www.lifelinescreening.com.

Pre-registration is required.

107th Annual Elmhurst Memorial Day Parade Monday, May 26 | 9:30 AM

Featuring Grand Marshal Sgt Richard Duzinskas, U.S. Army Cavalry Scout O.I.F Veteran • Parade Route Begins at York & Third Street, ending at Wilder Park • Memorial Ceremony follows at 11:00 a.m. at the Veterans Memorial Explore Elmhurst, on behalf of the City of Elmhurst, in cooperation with the Elmhurst Veterans Commission, American Legion THB Post 187, and the Elmhurst Park District, proudly presents the 107th Annual Memorial Day Parade. The parade will travel south on York, loop through Robert Palmer Drive, continue to Church Street and Prospect Avenue, and pass the Veterans Memorial in Wilder Park.

View lineup: ExploreElmhurst.com/MemorialDay

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The Elmhurst Independent - Thursday, May 15, 2025 • 7

IVAN FIGUEROA PHOTOS Elmhurst Independent

Shaghf Café in Villa Park hosts networking event for local Muslim women business owners Sana Siddiqui, owner of SANji Sideup, hosted a networking event for Muslim-women business owners at Shaghf Cafe, located on 133 Roosevelt Road, Villa Park, on April 26. (Top right): Siddiqui (left) assisted by event coordinator Maria Mogls (middle) and Jameel Hossain (right), online director for Mogls Muslim Businesses. Faiqa (not pictured), an independent content creator, also provided assistance at the event. Over 80 women business owners from Villa Park and sur-

Gardeners are invited to shop the Forest Preserve District of DuPage County’s popular native plant sale held from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Friday, May 16, and from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, May 17, at Mayslake Peabody Estate located at 1717 31st St. in Oak Brook.

Shoppers can get gardening tips from onsite plant experts and choose from 14 species debuting at this year’s sale. A list of anticipated native flowers, grasses, trees, and shrubs is available on the District’s website at dupageforest.org/nativeplant-sale, but actual inventory will be based on supplier availability. Plants are not restocked each night.

Shoppers are encouraged to bring their own boxes and wagons to transport their plants.

Cash, credit, and checks will be accepted.

All plants will have originated from seed collected within 100 miles of DuPage County and will be free of insecticides containing neonicotinoids, which are harmful to bees and other pollinators.

“Our sale is a great way to show how easy and rewarding it can be to grow native plants,” said Anamari Dorgan, director of Community Engagement at the Forest Preserve District.

“Native plants bring beauty to your yard; support butterflies, birds, and bees; and are easier to care for than nonnatives once established. Plus, our sale is special because you can chat one-on-one with our plant experts, who can help you pick the perfect plants based on your garden and goals,” she added.

All proceeds from the sale will support educational programming at the Forest Preserve District.

Native plants provide food for pollinators and require less maintenance and water than annuals during the hot summer months. Those with deep roots also help aerate the soil and clean the air.

For information, call 630933-7200 or visit dupageforest. org, where you can also link to the district’s e-newsletter and Facebook, X, Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok pages.

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Shop the Forest Preserve District’s popular native plant sale May 16, 17

rounding suburbs attended the networking event. Initially, the business owners were offered the opportunity of a presentation, allowing them to discuss the structure of their businesses and what they sell, further contributing to an environment of collaboration and learning. Several attending business owners were encouraged to bring in product samples such as custom jewelry and hand-crafted beverages.

Afterward, the owners were able to continue networking with other owners.

8 • Thursday, May 15, 2025 - The Elmhurst Independent

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.

admitted to smoking cannabis, were cited and released at the scene.

Battery

DUI, consumption of alcohol by a minor, illegal possession of alcohol

May 1 Christine V. Sunogan, 49, of Lincolnwood, was charged with battery and criminal trespass to land in the 100 block of N. Haven. Police said that subsequent to a criminal trespass to property in progress, the suspect was located inside the building after having previously been issued a no-trespass notice. When confronted by an employee, the suspect kicked him multiple times in the foot, according to police.

April 29 Police said that subsequent to a report of an attempted battery in the 400 block of N. Van Auken at 9:49 a.m., a victim related his neighbor attempted to batter him with a metal pipe after knocking on his door. Gerald L. Pellegrini, 67, of Elmhurst, was charged with attempted aggravated assault, two counts of criminal damage to property and criminal trespass to property.

Criminal trespassing, criminal damage May 3 Christine V. Sunogan, 49, of Lincolnwood, was charged with criminal trespass to land in the 100 block of E. Schiller at 4:40 p.m.

Identity theft, fraud

According to information provided by the Elmhurst Police Department, police reported five incidents of identity theft or fraud.

Harassment, threats May 4 Police said a victim in the 200 block of E. Third related she’s received harassing email messages.

CALL 800-222-TIPS

May 7 Arsalan Azeem, 37, of Elmhurst, was charged with DUI in the 400 block of W. St. Charles at 1:48 a.m.

Domestic battery, disorderly conduct, domestic issue May 4 Police said officers responded to the 600 block of W. North at 10:01 p.m. for the report of a domestic incident. Upon officers’ arrival, the complainant related the suspect grabbed her hand aggressively after a dispute. The reporting officer spoke with the suspect, who denied the allegations.

May 2 A 28-year-old Elmhurst woman was charged with domestic battery in the 200 block of N. West at 11:22 p.m. Police said it was determined the suspect slapped the victim after a dispute.

Possession of cannabis May 5 Luis A. Diaz, 67, and Sarah A. Brant, 47, both of Villa Park, both received citations for use of cannabis in a protected location near Thomas and Monterey at 6:39 p.m. Police cited Diaz and Brant after responding to a report of two individual smoking cannabis near Pick Park. The two subjects, who reportedly

May 3 Daniel J. Lamczyk, 42, of Northlake, was charged with DUI, failure to reduce speed to avoid an accident and no insurance near Grand and County Line at 6:01 p.m.

Possession of a controlled substance May 3 Wade E. King, 33, of Rolling Meadows, was charged with possession of a controlled substance, possession of drug paraphernalia and no front registration plate after to a traffic stop near Industrial and York at 7:31 p.m.

Suspicious incident May 7 A complainant in the 400 block of N. Oak reported an unknown suspect pulled into the complainant’s driveway and attempted to sell him a cell phone and AirPods. There was no transaction and the vehicle left the area.

May 1 Police said that subsequent to a report of

Five Venezuelan migrants from Chicago charged with robbery/burglary at Oak Brook stores in two separate incidents One of the accused also faces armed violence charges DuPage County State’s Attorney Robert Berlin and Oak Brook Chief of Police Brian Strockis announced last week that charges have been filed against five Venezuelan migrants, all male juveniles currently residing in Chicago, for allegedly stealing merchandise from two Oak Brook stores in two unrelated incidents.

All five juveniles appeared at May 6 detention hearings, where Judge Chantelle Porter ordered three of the five juveniles be detained.

All five juveniles are charged with one count of burglary, a Class 2 felony. Additionally, each of the three juveniles allegedly working together were also charged with one count of robbery (Class 2 felony), one count of misdemeanor resisting a police officer and one count of misdemeanor retail theft, while one of them faces an additional charge of misdemeanor assault.

The two individuals allegedly working together each face

additional charges of one count of retail theft, a Class 3 felony, while one of them also is charged with one count of armed violence, a Class X felony, and one misdemeanor count of resisting a police officer.

On May 5 at approximately 3:42 p.m., Oak Brook police officers responded to a call of a retail theft at the Macy’s store, located at 1 Oakbrook Center. It is alleged that two of the juveniles entered the store, selected six items of clothing valued at more than $300 and entered a fitting room, where they cut off the security sensors. It is further alleged that the juveniles then exited the store without paying for the merchandise, where they were met by officers with the Oak Brook Police Department and taken into custody.

It is alleged that officers recovered a 13-inch kitchen knife with an eight-inch blade in the waistband of one of the juveniles.

Earlier the same day, at

approximately 3 p.m., Oak Brook police officers responded to a call of a retail theft at the Nordstrom store, located at 10 Oakbrook Center. It is alleged that the three juveniles entered the Nordstrom store and one of the juveniles entered a fitting room. It is further alleged that the two other juveniles brought items to the juvenile in the fitting room.

It is alleged that the juvenile then exited the fitting room, at which time a loss prevention officer discovered that an item valued at approximately $138 was allegedly missing from the store. All three juveniles then allegedly exited the store, where they were met by the loss prevention officer.

The juveniles physically struggled with the loss prevention officer, with one of them throwing a punch at the loss prevention officer. All three minors then fled into the mall, where officers with the Oak Brook Police Department took them into custody following a brief foot chase.

a suspicious vehicle, a dark blue Hyundai Elantra with heavy damage was located in the 100 block of Fellows Court. It was determined to be stolen out of Forest Park. The Forest Park Police Department was contacted and notified of the recovery.

Theft, retail theft, burglary, attempted theft or burglary, forgery, deceptive practice, obstruction, robbery

May 7 Jose A. Vasquez, 32, of Melrose Park, was charged with retail theft at a store in the 900 block of S. York at 8:12 p.m. Police said officers observed the suspect exit the business without paying for merchandise in his possession.

May 5 Antonio A. Banks, 56, of Evanston, was charged with retail theft at a store in the 900 block of S. York at 8:46 p.m. Police said an officer observed the suspect exit the business appearing to conceal items inside his jacket.

The officer made contact with the suspect, who admitted to stealing two bottles of alcohol, according to police.

May 2 A complainant in the 600 block of N. York reported while being distracted by one suspect, another suspect removed money and a wallet from her purse.

May 1 Elisandra A. Benavides, 23, of Berwyn, and Jessica B. Matos, 25, of Chicago, were charged with retail theft at a pharmacy in the 100 block of N. Robert T. Palmer at 2:42 p.m.

Police said a complainant informed officers that another employee had observed the suspects concealing merchandise and then leaving the business without paying.

Four armed suspects who allegedly stole a vehicle are arrested in Villa Park License plate reader detects suspects at North and Villa avenues; police arrest four subjects after they allegedly fled vehicle in the 300 block of N. Ardmore Avenue

Police took four suspects into custody in Villa Park after the suspects allegedly committed an armed robbery and an aggravated vehicle hijacking last week.

On Thursday, May 8, at about 5:45 p.m., police received a report of four subjects wearing masks at 7 Kingery Quarter, near 91st Street and Clarendon Hills in Willowbrook. Those subjects, who reportedly had been looking into cars, allegedly assaulted and robbed two juvenile victims and took their shirts.

The four subjects, who were reportedly armed with a handgun, allegedly entered a dark gray Chevrolet Cruze.

The Cruze reportedly then struck another vehicle—a

Nissan Maxima—and fled the area.

At about 6:37 p.m., a license plate reader in Elmhurst detected the Cruze at North and Villa avenues, traveling westbound on North into Villa Park. That intersection is about 14 miles from where the suspects allegedly assaulted the juvenile victims.

Officers from Villa Park, Elmhurst and other communities responded to the area and reportedly spotted the vehicle in the 300 block of North Ardmore Avenue at about 6:42 p.m. At that time, the four suspects—three males and one female—reportedly exited the vehicle on Ardmore and fled on foot.

See SUSPECTS, Page 9

Police pursuit from Community calendar Villa Park ends after a crash in Elmhurst Lincoln Elementary School briefly placed in a ‘Secure and Teach’ status on Friday morning; police arrest three males after vehicle collides with a pickup truck, then strikes a residential garage

On Friday, May 9, at approximately 8:20 a.m., a police pursuit and traffic collision occurred at Berkley Avenue and Prairie Path Lane in Elmhurst.

According to the Elmhurst Police Department, Villa Park officers located a suspect vehicle—reportedly a black Nissan Maxima with major damage on the driver and passenger sides—in their jurisdiction on Friday morning.

Three male suspects in the vehicle allegedly took items from two Walgreens locations in Villa Park.

The three subjects allegedly stole a cart full of items, including diapers and chewing gum, from the Villa Park Walgreens at 10 E. St. Charles Road, near Ardmore Avenue, shortly before 8 a.m. on Friday morning.

The suspects then went to the Villa Park Walgreens at 200 E. Roosevelt Road, near Summit Avenue, where they allegedly stole another cart full of items, including diapers and toilet paper.

Villa Park officers pursued the suspects into Elmhurst.

The vehicle driven by one of the suspects eventually collided with a pickup truck at the intersection of Berkley and Prairie Path Lane.

“The suspect vehicle continued south and veered off

the street and collided with the attached garage of a home on the 500 block of S. Berkley Avenue,” noted a statement from the Elmhurst Police Department.

The statement added that the three suspects ran from the vehicle and were apprehended by responding police officers within minutes.

Police reportedly took the suspects into custody in the 500 block of South Fairview Avenue.

As a precaution, the Elmhurst Police Department advised Elmhurst Community Unit School District 205 to place Lincoln Elementary School, 565 Fairfield Ave., in a “Secure and Teach” status during the incident. Once the incident was concluded, the secure status was lifted at the school. Police took the three suspects into custody about three blocks west of the school. All three subjects were reportedly in custody by 8:24 a.m.

“No injuries were reported in relation to the traffic collision and the residential garage was unoccupied at the time of the incident,” related the Elmhurst Police Department at the conclusion of its statement.

As of press time, the Villa Park Police Department did not have any additional information about the incident.

Fatal shooting in Downers Grove on Saturday A 24-year-old man was shot; he died after he was transported to a hospital; police stated there was no threat to the general public On Saturday, May 10, at approximately 6:51 p.m., the Downers Grove Police Department responded to the 2100 block of Prentiss Drive for a report that a person had been shot.

According to the Downers Grove Police Department, the preliminary investigation indicated that two men were in an altercation with another man when several gunshots were fired. The victim, a 24-year-old man, was injured in the shooting and transported to Advocate Good Samaritan Hospital in critical condition. The victim died at the hospital. According to the

Downers Grove Police Department’s May 11 update on the shooting, the release of the victim’s identification was being held pending notification of family members.

“Police have determined that the individuals involved in the incident were known to each other and there was no threat to the general public,” related the Downers Grove Police Department’s May 11 update. “Police continue to investigate, and no one is in custody at this time.”

The Downers Grove Police Department asks anyone with information regarding the incident to call 630-434-5600.

The Elmhurst Independent - Thursday, May 15, 2025 • 9

Recurring on Sundays Elmhurst Model Railroad Club Sunday open house.

From 1-4 p.m. every Sunday at the Elmhurst Model Railroad Club, 111 E. First St., and visit the club’s three operating model railroad layouts.

For more information, call 630-530-9584 or email: emrrc@comcast.net.

Park is free and open to the of the plant sales donated to public from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. support community projects.

Checks, cash and major credit Friday, May 16 through cards accepted for purchases.

Sunday, May 18 Shop early for the best selecGreenMan Theatre pres- tion. The sale will take place ents Miss Holmes Returns rain or shine. For more inforby Christopher M. Walsh. mation, visit: www.crestviewPresented by GreenMan The- gardenclub.com. atre Troupe on May 16, May 17 and May 18 at First UnitSpring Road Pet Parade. ed Methodist Church, 232 From 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m. preThursday, May 15 S. York, revisit the world of sented by the Kiwanis Club UCCA Taste of the Town. Miss Sherlock Holmes the of Elmhurst, pets of all types From 6-10 p.m. United Com- Troupe presents Miss Holmes and sizes are welcomed. The munity Concerns Association Returns as a staged reading. event starts at 11:30, but the (UCCA) will hold the eighth It will look a little different parade steps off at 1 p.m. annual Taste of the Town: from our normal productions Bring your furry friends and Dining for a Cause, an Elm- but will still delight you with unique pets to parade on hurst food and drink expe- some characters you met last Spring Road. Let your pets rience, on May 15 at Wilder fall and introduce you to new prance and strut their stuff in a Mansion. The evening will ones as we tell you this story. costume or just show off their showcase food, wine, and beer All tickets are $15. For more natural charm. The event intastings from 15 Elmhurst information, visit: www. cludes pet tricks, pet awards, businesses. Proceeds from the greenmantheatre.org. fun activities for the kids, and event will benefit UCCA, an concessions (cash only) with all-volunteer, not-for-profit Saturday, May 17 proceeds going to local aniorganization that fights hunCrestview Garden Club of mal shelters. Bring cash for ger by providing food, refer- Elmhurst 45th annual plant the raffle. For more informarals, and services to Elmhurst sale. From 8:30 a.m.-1 p.m. tion, visit: https://springroad.

District 205’s most financially presented by the Crestview com/our-events. disadvantaged children and Garden Club of Elmhurst, the their families. Tickets are $75 sale features more than 1,200 Sunday, May 18 in advance and $80 after May plants and 130-plus varieties Family Sensory Hour.

8 or at the door and can be that include sun and shade From noon to 1 p.m. presentpurchased online at ucca-elm- perennials, herbs, ground ed free by Music Together at hurst.org or by mail at UCCA, covers, natives and vegeta- the Elmhurst Public Library, Box 324, Elmhurst, IL 60126. bles. The sale will also feature come for a family music Visit ucca-elmhurst.org for plants that attract pollinators. class led by Music Together Experienced gardeners onsite this month at Family Sensomore details.

Art in Wilder Park. The to answer questions and assist ry Hour. The Family Sensory the 28th annual Art in Wilder with plant selection. A portion Hour offers the opportunity for children with special needs to use the Kids’ Library Elmhurst Police Department reminds in a safe and welcoming enparents that E-scooters are not permitted on vironment before the library opens. Registration is rethe city’s public streets, sidewalks and paths quired. For more information, The Elmhurst Police De- fast and even less visible than visit: https://elmhurstpubliclipartment issued a message bicycles due to their small brary.org. to parents last week. That message reminded parents of a recent state law that went into effect last fall regulating E-scooters throughout Illinois. The police department stated it hopes to educate parents about the new law so they can protect their children and prevent accidents.

The police department’s message to parents noted that E-scooters are not permitted for use on public streets, sidewalks and paths by anyone in Elmhurst. (E-scooters can be

sented by the Elmhurst Choral Union, the Choral Union performs Gabriel Fauré’s Requiem, Elaine Hagenberg’s Illuminare, and Ola Gjeilo’s Dark & Luminous Night with professional orchestra and soloists under the direction of Scott Uddenberg. Ticket prices are $25 adults, $15 for kids up to age 18. For more information, visit: https://elmhurstchoralunion.org.

Saturday, May 31 Dan Gibbons Twilight Trot. The Dan Gibbons Twilight Trot, a 5K fun run benefiting four local Elmhurst organizations, will be held at 6:30 p.m. This exciting new event builds on the success of the long-standing Dan Gibbons Turkey Trot, with a mission to support hunger relief and basic human needs yearround. All proceeds will stay in Elmhurst, benefiting the following Elmhurst nonprofit organizations: Elmhurst Walk-In Assistance Network, the United Community Concerns Association, the Immaculate Conception Food Pantry and the Elmhurst/ Yorkfield Food Pantry This inaugural Twilight Trot provides an opportunity to address hunger and basic needs halfway through the year, in advance of the Turkey Trot’s traditional Thanksgiving efforts. Registration for the Dan Gibbons Twilight Trot is open online at $35 per participant. For more information, call 630-415-2816, email: info@dangibbonsfoundation. org or visit: dangibbonstwilighttrot.org.

size, drivers and cyclists can’t Music to Light the Dark- Elmhurst Art Museum easily see them so it’s dangerInfo: 630-834-0202 or visit ness. Starting at 6:30 p.m. at ous).

Elmhurst University and pre- elmhurstartmuseum.org.

In some cities that permit E-scooters (like Chicago), state law now requires riders We want to print your news! to be age 18 or older since ridIs your church hosting a special event? ers need to obey traffic laws like stop signs.

Community Calendar listings are free!

“To put it simply, your chil- Send details to independent@rvpublishing.com dren can’t legally ride electric scooters on public streets/ sidewalks/paths in Elmhurst, so don’t permit them to,” related the police department’s ANGELINE Angeline is survived by message. her sister, her daughter, son POLUDNIEWSKI We regretfully announce in law, grandchildren, nieces, (Continued from page 8) the passing of Angeline nephews and many extended The police response inShortly before arresting the Poludniewski on May 8, family members.

Visitation at the Pedersen cluded drones and K9 units. female suspect, the Villa Park 2025. A long time resident of Police reportedly took the Police Department issued a Elmhurst, IL. Her family was Ryberg Funeral Home, 435 N. three male subjects into cus- community alert, stating that at her bedside during her last York St., Elmhurst on Thurstody near Cornell Avenue and officers were searching for a days. Angeline had endured day, May 15, 2025 from 8:30 Division Street. A resident in female suspect in the area east a long battle with a difficult a.m. until time of prayers the area observed one of the of 300 N. Ardmore Ave. The illness and is finally at peace. 10:30 a.m. the proceeding to suspects toss a firearm into a police department canceled She will be forever loved and Mary Queen of Heaven Cathback yard. Police, who estab- the alert after taking the fe- remembered by her family, olic Church, Elmhurst for friends, her caregivers at Ad- Funeral Mass at 11:00 a.m. lished a perimeter in the area, male subject into custody. recovered the weapon in the As of press time, the Vil- dolorata Villa and her care Interment to follow at Queen first block of E. Division, just la Park Police Department, team from Suncrest Hospice. of Heaven Catholic Cemetery, Angeline was predeceased Hillside, IL east of Cornell. A short time the Elmhurst Police DepartIn lieu of flowers, please after detaining the three male ment and the DuPage County by her son, her husband, sissubjects, officers took the fe- State’s Attorney’s Office did ter in law, cousin, nephews, donate to your favorite animal male suspect into custody in not provide any additional in- niece, sisters and brothers, charity, Angeline loved dogs and cats. the 300 block of Cornell. formation about the incident. aunt and her parents.

• Suspects

Obituary

10 • Thursday, May 15, 2025 - The Elmhurst Independent

The Elmhurst Independent

Viewpoint

May 15, 2025 • 10

Time to reinforce Illinois as welcoming state to Muslims, other immigrant communities

By Irshad Khan A PhD student was taken off the streets by plainclothed ICE officers, with no reason given. She had recently written an op-ed exercising her free speech rights.

A man was mistakenly deported, with no plans for his return to our country— built on the tenets of the land of the free, but for too many, the dream has become a nightmare.

At 18 years old, a young woman was convicted of a crime. Nearly two decades later, now with three children, the woman was denied housing in Cook County because of her conviction— even though the crime is eligible to be wiped from her record. The process is so difficult, it continues to hang over her head and hold her family back.

Across Illinois, the Muslim community and other immigrant communities made up of hard-working people devoted to the principles of peace, understanding, and embracing our differences are being torn apart. We face marginalization and persecution simply because of who we are, what we look like, and what we believe in.

We demand better, and we brought that message to the Illinois State Capitol on April 9 for the 17th Illinois Muslim Action Day. Several dozen advocates, including high school students, met with state legislators to support a package of priorities aimed at reinforcing Illinois as a welcoming state for the hundreds of thousands of people here who believe deeply in this country’s long-running commitment to human rights and basic human dignity.

We have asked legislators to support a resolution that strengthens our welcoming state policies, by allowing everyone to practice their religious beliefs without fear or anxiety in places of business and schools.

We want to strengthen Illinois’ TRUST Act through House Bill 2706 and

Senate Bill 2305. Federal immigration agents should not use local law enforcement as weapons against innocent people.

The Clean Slate Illinois initiative will make it easier and more attainable for individuals to seal criminal records for certain offenses.

This will create smoother pathways to jobs, safe housing, education and the better life we all deserve.

Our laws should make it easier for people to support Palestinian rights peacefully.

House Bill 2723—the Human Rights Advocacy Protection Act—takes an important step forward for free speech rights.

We also join the Illinois Coalition for Immigrant and Refugee Rights (ICIRR) in its call for $40 million to provide a safety net for immigrant communities: language-accessible case management, aid for program application, targeted cash relief and more support.

We were warmly greeted in Springfield by many legislators and top elected officials who share our grave concerns about the divisions tearing communities apart. Gov. JB Pritzker and our allies stand strong with us against a federal administration that disrupts more people’s lives every day.

Our plea is for grace.

Embrace the understanding that our differences don’t define us, but they can unite us in a spirit of collaboration and shared values. We want to build bridges and shape a future where everyone’s voice can be heard, and everyone’s life and perspective can be valued.

In the face of these challenging times that weaken our democracy, we urge you to join us – Illinoisans and Americans of all backgrounds and beliefs—to strengthen our state’s welcoming policies and unite behind the human experience that can bring all of us together.

Irshad Khan of Chicago is former chairman of the Council of Islamic Organizations of Greater Chicago, and the lead organizer of Illinois Muslim Action Day.

A degree of agreement: Why Illinois needs the Community College Baccalaureate

By Dr. Tim Taylor In today’s divided political climate, finding common ground often feels out of reach. But every so often, a solution comes along that bridges red and blue, reflects the values of both parties, and speaks directly to the needs of everyday Illinoisans.

The Community College Baccalaureate (CCB) is that solution.

It’s a policy bold enough to carry the red banner of fiscal responsibility and local control, the blue banner of equity and opportunity, and—in deep Southern Illinois—the maroon of community commitment and practical action.

At Shawnee Community College, we know firsthand what’s at stake and what’s possible.

For Illinois, and especially in rural and underserved regions, allowing select community colleges to offer applied bachelor’s degrees is not just smart policy; it’s a necessary evolution in how we serve our students, meet workforce needs, and build resilient local economies.

The case for the CCB is compelling under both traditional Republican and Democratic values.

When policy reflects both fiscal restraint and expanded opportunity, local control and equitable access, it deserves broad support.

A conservative case for the CCB: efficiency, self-reliance, and local

empowerment The Republican platform has long championed local governance, fiscal responsibility, and workforce self-sufficiency.

The CCB embodies each of these principles.

At Shawnee Community College, located in deep Southern Illinois, we serve a geographically large district where students often commute 30 to 60 miles to attend class.

For many, relocating to attend a university is simply not an option. By offering applied bachelor’s degrees in high-need areas like operations management, data science, and allied health, we can help students advance their careers and incomes – without increasing state bureaucracy or taxpayer cost.

We already have much of the infrastructure, faculty, and community trust. The CCB allows us to use existing resources more efficiently, giving placebound students a pathway to prosperity that reflects the realities of their lives and responsibilities. It’s a costeffective, locally governed solution that aligns perfectly with conservative principles.

Community colleges enroll the majority of firstgeneration college students, students of color, adult learners, and low-income residents in Illinois. Yet these same students face systemic barriers to completing a fouryear degree—barriers made worse in rural districts like ours where the closest public university is 45 miles away.

Many are working parents or caregivers who cannot uproot their lives to finish their education elsewhere.

The CCB helps level the playing field by delivering bachelor’s degrees directly into the communities that need them most. It’s a practical step toward reducing disparities in degree attainment and building a more inclusive economy— not just in Southern Illinois, but in dozens of rural and underserved regions across the state.

Addressing the critics: common concerns, realworld rebuttals Despite broad support, several criticisms are often raised. While worth considering, each falls short under scrutiny—especially when viewed through the lens of real communities like A progressive case for the ours.

CCB: equity, access, and “It’s mission creep for economic justice community colleges.”

From a traditional Not at all. Community Democratic perspective, colleges were created to the CCB aligns with longserve local needs, and those standing priorities around needs have evolved. Offering social mobility, educational applied bachelor’s degrees equity, and economic in targeted workforce fields empowerment. does not change our mission;

it fulfills it more fully. We are not trying to become research universities. We are working to meet critical labor shortages and support economic development in our own backyards “It will duplicate programs offered by universities.”

In many parts of Illinois, including our district, there is no university offering these programs nearby, or the university is not producing enough graduates to meet local demand. In fields like cybersecurity, emerging digital technologies (AI, VR, MR, etc.), nursing and teacher education, the shortage is not theoretical— it’s real and immediate.

We don’t need duplication; we need complementary capacity. The CCB builds it, affordably and effectively.

“Community colleges can’t maintain bachelor’slevel quality.”

We already exceed quality expectations in the associate-degree programs we offer, many of which are subject to professional accreditation, licensure standards, and employer review. CCB programs would be subject to regional accreditation and state oversight, just like university programs. In other states, such as Florida and Washington, community college bachelor’s degrees have shown strong outcomes in both employment rates and student satisfaction.

See DEGREE, Page 17

Worship Services

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The Elmhurst Independent - Thursday, May 15, 2025 • 11

Directory

St. Timothy Evangelical Lutheran Church

First Congregational UCC 235 S. Kenilworth Ave., Elmhurst, IL

630-832-2580

547 N. Main St., Lombard, IL 60148

630-627-2435

Invites you to a Memorial Sunday Service On May 25th at 10 AM

Lent and Services SundayEaster Worship at 10:15 am

at 7 p.m.

Sunday School & Bible Study 9 am Ladies “The Bible Fellowship Mondays at 6:30 pm Crucial Hours” Second LentenWednesday Service March Service at 7pm9, 2022 Rev. David “Satan Has Asked to Sift All ofService You” AdultErnest Bible Study Wednesdays after Jerusalem Lutheran, Morton Grove Matthew 27:15-26 Saturday, May 24, Game Night at 4 pm

Join us at the corner of Spring and Vallette 314 W. Vallette Street, Elmhurst, IL www.epiphanyelmhurst.org 630-832-8457

Welcome to

Fifth ST. Lenten Service March 30, 2022 PIUS X CATHOLIC COMMUNITY Rev. Tom Nicholson Diocese of Joliet “They Bound Him” Resurrection, Aurora John 18:12

Worship with Us!

SUNDAY MASS SCHEDULE

SATURDAY: 5:00 PM (VIGIL MASS) April 6, 2022 7:00 PM (ESPAÑOL)

Saturdays 5:30pm Sundays 9:30am

of Legality” SUNDAY:“The 8:00Semblance AM & 10:00 AM

Luke 22:66

WEEKDAY MASS SCHEDULE

All are Welcome!

MONDAY - FRIDAY & FIRST SATURDAY: 8:30 AM ADORATION OF THE BLESSED SACRAMENT Maundy Thursday Communion 7 p.m.,- PRAYER April CHAPEL 14

Sunday services are live streamed on our website.

MONDAY - THURSDAY 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Good Friday Tenebrae 15 SACRAMENT OF RECONCILIATION7( p.m., ENGLISHApril & ESPAÑOL) Easter Sunrise

SATURDAY: 3:30 PM - 4:30 PM OR BY APPOINTMENT

6:30 a.m., April 17

Easter Festival

10:15 a.m., April 17

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for as low as $20 per week Call Brenda at 630-834-4450 or Betty at 630-627-7010

Weekend Weekend Masses: Masses: Saturday: Saturday: 4 PM 4 PM (Vigil) (Vigil) Sunday: Sunday: 7:30,7:30, 9:309:30 & 11:30 & 11:30 AM AM and and 6 PM 6 PM Daily Daily Masses: Masses: Monday—Friday: 6:156:15 and and 8:158:15 AM AM Monday—Friday: Saturday: Saturday: 8:158:15 AM AM

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8 a.m., April 17

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Parish Office: 1025 E. Madison Street • (630) 627-4526 • www.stpiuslombard.org

Easter Breakfast

Children’s Sunday School, Childcare and Adult Opportunities Available

779 S. 779 York S. York Street Street Elmhurst, Elmhurst, IL IL 630-834-6700 630-834-6700 www.visitationparish.org www.visitationparish.org

Confessions: Confessions: Saturday: Saturday: 3-3:45PM 3-3:45PM Adoration: Adoration: Parish Parish Center Center Eucharist Eucharist Chapel Chapel 24/724/7

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Sixth Lenten Service Rev. Phil Schupmann Resurrection, Aurora

Be a part of the Worship Services Directory 469022

March 23, 2022 “I Will Keep the Passover” Matthew 26:18

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

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Everyone is Welcome!

Third Lenten Service March 16, 2022 Rev. Paul Spaude All services “Whatare to Remember When Your are live streamed.

St. Matthews,Watch Niles on our website orSeized with Remorse” on Facebook. sainttimothy.org Matthew 27:3-4

Featuring “K9s for Veterans”

This organization provides trained service dogs to veterans suffering from PTSD. They also supply free food and basic medical care for the life of the service of the service dogs. A voluntary offering will be taken to donate to this amazing organization. Special music will pay tribute to our veterans. Refreshments to follow in the church parlor.

12 • Thursday, May 15, 2025 - The Elmhurst Independent

Get ready for a paw-some event that’ll have tails wagging and hearts melting!

Spring Road Business Association & Elmhurst Kiwanis Present the

32nd Annual Spring Road Pet Parade Join us at the Wild Meadows Trace on Spring Road by the Gazebo and the Prairie Path.

The fun begins at 11:30 AM -Parade steps off at 1:00 PM ➤

FREE Family friendly, fun community event! Fun Activities: Crafts, Face Painting, Pet Contests, Blessing of the Pets, Vendors, Raffle prizes & More!

➤

All pets are welcome with their owners, but pets must be leashed.

Goodies bags for the first 100 registered pets. Save time, Register Today!

Springroad.com/our-events

➤

Concessions and Raffle tickets are CASH ONLY!! All proceeds are donated to the local animal & rescue shelters that support our community.

➤ Raffle items were generously donated by local businesses. We have amazing prizes, including gift certificates for: a Microneedling Service, Mani & Pedi service, Massages, and MORE! And a brand-new kid’s bike donated by the Elmhurst YMCA!!

➤ This event is not only about celebrating our beloved pets, but also about coming together as a community and helping our local shelters.

➤ Dogs & Cats On-site & Available for Adoption from: Fetching Tails,

New Start Dog Rescue, As Good as Gold: Golden Retriever Rescue, Underdog Railway Rescue, Hinsdale Humane Society and St. Sophia’s Forgotten Felines.

Sponsored by

With Additional Support from:

The Annual Spring Road PET PARADE is Saturday, May 17

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The Elmhurst Independent - Thursday, May 15, 2025 • 13

Help our Local Pet Rescues & Shelters

WINDOWS - INSULATED SIDING - DOORS - STONE - FASCIA - GUTTERS - ROOFING - DECKS SOFFITS - CONCRETE PAVERS - PERGOLAS - PORTICOS - SHUTTERS - MASONRY AND MORE!

The Spring Road Business Association & Elmhurst Kiwanis will be taking donations for our local pet rescues & shelters. Scan the QR Code for a list of items in need.

Adding Value Thru Design Ask about our pet doors!

Bring your donations to the Pet Parade.

Schedule a free Consultation on-site

Scan Me

Register for the Pet Parade Today!!

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Committed To Personal Gentle Care For The Lifetime Of Your Pet Dr. Gary Maves • Dr. Mary Felt • Dr. Nicole DiGiacomo Dr. Allison Roberts • Dr. Chris Obradovich • Wellness Exams

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The Elmhurst Independent - Thursday, May 15, 2025 • 15

36 Drafts & 394 Bourbons, Scotches & Whiskeys THURSDAY’S SPECIAL

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Enjoy live music performed by the following Bands: Full Volume, Last of the Dying Breed, Momma Jen and the J Tones, Moonhole, Rockhit, Ruse, The Saratogas!!

Saturday, May 17th 12pm-7pm

50/50 Raffles, Many Silent Auction items, Great Food, Live Music and More!

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16 • Thursday, May 15, 2025 - The Elmhurst Independent

Making Your WEDDING DAY SPECIAL The responsibilities of wedding party members A couple’s wedding day is one they will never forget. Guests’ focus is squarely on the happy couple on the day they’re set to make their union official.

However, happy couples are not the only ones with important roles to play during a wedding.

Being asked to be in a wedding is a unique honor. With that honor comes responsibility, as each person in a wedding party can do their own part to ensure a couple’s wedding day is a success.

Maid or matron of honor A maid of honor and matron of honor perform the same functions. The terms are simply unique because a maid of honor refers to a person who has not yet gotten married, while the term matron of honor is used for a person who has gotten married. Some brides choose a man to serve as man of honor.

Whatever title is appropriate, the person who serves in this capacity will help the bride plan the wedding, including being there to offer insight when shopping for a wedding dress.

This person also may coordinate the bachelorette party and periodically speak with bridesmaids to ensure everyone is on schedule. The maid of honor will typically give a bridal toast during the reception.

Best man Don’t let the title fool you, as many couples now choose to have a best woman.

Like the maid of honor, the best man (or woman) may be asked to help with wedding planning and is typically tasked with organizing the bachelor party and toasting the groom during the reception.

The best man also can help to ensure groomsmen are on schedule with tuxedo fittings.

Bridesmaids/Groomsmen

rings down the aisle.

Bridesmaids stand beside the bride during the wedding ceremony. They can help with planning and help to resolve any last-minute issues that may arise on the big day, such as a vendor arriving late.

Groomsmen stand next to the groom during the ceremony and may be asked to help the best man plan the bachelor party.

Both bridesmaids and groomsmen also may be asked to help host events leading up to the big day, such as a shower or engagement party.

Parents of the couple

Ring bearer/flower girl The roles of ring bearer and flower girl are typically filled by young relatives of the couple, such as nieces, nephews or cousins.

The flower girl walks down the aisle in advance of the bride, spreading pedals as she goes. The ring bearer carries the wedding

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If they choose to do so, parents of the happy couple can help pay for the wedding.

The custom of the bride’s parents paying the entire bill has largely fallen by the wayside, as many modern couples now pay for their own weddings.

If they want to contribute, parents can offer to pay for the engagement party and/or rehearsal dinner, but such generosity is not expected of them.

Serving in a wedding party is a unique and humbling honor. The roles of each person in the party vary, and party members who want to do their best for the couple can study up on their responsibilities in advance of the big day. (metro creative)

The Elmhurst Independent - Thursday, May 15, 2025 • 17

Road Safety and Fairness Act headed for final General Assembly vote Giannoulias-drafted bill would establish procedures to report unsafe drivers; calls for increasing behind-the-wheel driving test age the rest of the nation will remove an unnecessary burden for seniors while new reporting procedures will keep Illinois roads safe and accessible.”

“The data clearly shows that older drivers are safer drivers. Singling them out to take an extra test is a type of age discrimination that must end,” said Ryan Gruenenfelder, senior director of Advocacy and Outreach at AARP Illinois. “We have heard from our members for years about how the driving test requirement perpetuates false narratives about their driving abilities. We urge the Illinois Senate to pass this legislation to bring Illinois requirements in line with every other state.”

“This measure will align Illinois senior driving standards with the rest of the nation while increasing safeguards so that Illinois remains among the strictest states for road safety,” Villivalam said. “It’s time to adjust this unnecessary and burdensome requirement unfairly placed on our state’s safest drivers.”

“A birthday is not an accurate gauge of one’s ability to get behind the wheel safely.

Driving ability and medical health should serve as the de-

termining factors,” said Hoffman. “Allowing immediate relatives—who have the most consistent interactions with their loved ones—to report medical concerns about a licensed driver is a more effective approach to maintaining road safety.”

The legislation calls for establishing new procedures aimed at preventing unsafe motorists–regardless of age– from driving. If a motorist’s driving skills begin to significantly decline or cognitive or medical issues get in the way of safe driving, the measure enables immediate relatives to request that the Secretary of State’s office review a submitted written report.

If the report review finds that the claims are credible, the driver would be required to submit a medical reevaluation report and/or undergo retesting (written, vision and behind-the-wheel tests) to retain their license.

Under the proposed legislation, behind-the-wheel driving test requirements would be amended as follows: Drivers ages 79 and 80 would still be required to visit a DMV facility if they need to renew their driver’s license and take a vision test (and a written test if a driving vio-

(Continued from page 10) “It’s an unfunded include distance, cost, expansion that risks childcare, and job constraints. existing programs.”

The CCB provides another In fact, CCB programs ladder—not a replacement, are typically self-sustaining but a realistic option for the through tuition, grants, and many students for whom private sector partnerships. transfer isn’t viable.

They are carefully scoped to ensure they don’t drain A call to act—together existing resources but rather In rural Southern Illinois, add value to the institution our challenges are not and to the community. unique—they are simply At Shawnee, for instance, more visible. We face offering a local applied shortages of nurses, teachers, bachelor’s degree in and skilled professionals. operations management; We serve students who are entrepreneurship could retain hardworking, resourceful, students currently lost to and determined – but often out-of-district options while one barrier away from attracting new adult learners dropping out. who never would have The Community College enrolled otherwise.

Baccalaureate is not a threat “Why not just improve to the university system. transfer pathways?”

It is not a partisan stunt.

We support strong transfer It is a practical, bipartisan pathways and have dozens solution that puts education, of articulation agreements. workforce readiness, and But in practice, only a small community prosperity within percentage of community reach for thousands of Illinois college students who intend residents. to transfer actually complete This isn’t about red or a bachelor’s degree. Barriers blue. And it’s certainly not

about politics as usual. It’s about doing what works— locally, responsibly, and urgently – for the people of this state. At Shawnee, we wear maroon with pride. But we believe in a future where red and blue come together to serve the public good.

I urge Illinois legislators from both sides of the aisle— along with employers, local governments, and education leaders—to support the CCB. Our students, neighbors, and friends don’t have time to wait for perfection. They need progress. And they deserve the chance to finish what they started—right here, at home.

Dr. Tim Taylor has worked in higher education for more than 36 years and serves as president of Shawnee Community College in Southern Illinois. He is a longtime advocate for rural workforce development, educational access, and bipartisan solutions that strengthen local communities.

• Degree

lation exists) but would not have to take a driving test.

Drivers between the ages of 81 and 86 would still be required to visit a DMV facility to renew their license every two years, which is a shorter renewal period than most drivers, which is every four years. They would still be required to take a vision test (and a written test if a driving violation exists) but would not have to take a driving test.

Drivers aged 87 and older would continue to be required to renew their license annually. These renewals would in-

clude a vision test and a driving test. A written exam may be required depending on the individual’s driving record.

The law governing this age group would not change under the new law.

Illinois is currently one of only five states that do not allow immediate family members to report concerns about a relative’s driving ability. In addition, Illinois is the only state in the nation that requires a behind-the-wheel driving test for seniors based on age.

A temporary measure

Elmhurst

Independent

Elmhurst’s Locally Owned and Operated Hometown Newspaper

sparked by the COVID-19 pandemic that raised the age of mandatory driving tests from 75 to 79 became permanent in 2024 after an office-commissioned study found no significant increases in crashes per licensed driver in each affected age range.

Latest statistics from the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) reveal that in 2023, the crash rate for drivers 75 and older is 24.61 per 1,000 drivers, which is lower than every age range of drivers between 16 and 74 years old.

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Rock Valley Publishing 240 N. West Ave., Elmhurst, IL 60126 Phone: 630.834.8244

469224

Legislation championed

by Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias calling for enhanced safeguards to bolster road safety while increasing the age at which Illinois drivers must take a behindthe-wheel driving test from 79 to 87 passed a Senate committee on May 6.

The legislation, supported

by AARP Illinois, passed the Illinois Senate Transportation Committee by a unanimous vote.

The bill, which the Illinois House approved last month, now awaits a full vote in the Senate Chamber.

HB 1226, or the Road Safety & Fairness Act, seeks to align Illinois driving standards with the rest of the nation. Its chief sponsors are State Representative Jay Hoffman (113th District-Belleville) and State Senator Ram Villivalam (8th District-Chicago), who chairs the Senate Transportation Committee. If signed into law, the legislation would take effect on July 1, 2026.

“Every decision we make is data-driven, and on this topic the data is clear: seniors are among the safest drivers of any age category,” Giannoulias said. “Aligning Illinois senior driving standards with

18 • Thursday, May 15, 2025 - The Elmhurst Independent

PUZZLE Page

SUDOKU

Fun by the Numbers Like puzzles? Then you’ll love sudoku. This mind-bending puzzle will have you hooked from the moment you square off, so sharpen your pencil and put your sudoku savvy to the test! Here’s How It Works: Sudoku puzzles are formatted as a 9x9 grid, broken down into nine 3x3 boxes. To solve a sudoku, the numbers 1 through 9 must fill each row, column and box. Each number can appear only once in each row, column and box. You can figure out the order in which the numbers will appear by using the numeric clues already provided in the boxes. The more numbers you name, the easier it gets to solve the puzzle!

Answers on page 22

CLUES ACROSS 1. Two-person German submarine 6. 60-minute intervals (abbr.)

9. Database management system 13. Vertical position 14. American jazz singer Irene 15. Ancient Greek City 16. Former Senate Majority Leader Harry 17. Japanese seaport 18. Self-immolation by fire ritual 19. Assigns tasks 21. Beloved type of cigar 22. Discounts 23. Cambodian communist leader Pot 24. Important football position 25. Kilometers per hour 28. Lentil 29. Extremely angry 31. Yellow-flowered European plant 33. American state 36. Some are made by rabbits 38. Express with a head movement 39. Affair 41. Cured 44. Youth organization 45. 18-year astronomical period 46. Automobile 48. Focus a shot 49. The NFL’s big game (abbr.)

51. Mouth 52. Infections 54. Curved pieces of a horse collar 56. Shameless 60. Assist in escaping 61. Capuchin monkey genus 62. Cold wind 63. Retired Brazilian NBAer 64. Tropical Old World tree 65. Bulgarian city 66. Speak indistinctly

67. Soviet Socialist Republic

68. Between-meal sustenance CLUES DOWN 1. Not soft 2. Sharp-pointed dueling sword 3. Line a roof 4. Greek god of the underworld 5. Software 6. Large-headed elongated fishes 7. Shag rugs 8. Type of whale 9. Lacking a plan 10. Spill the beans 11. Some is “heavy” 12. One who has been canonized 14. Indicate times 17. Greeting 20. Broadway actor Josh 21. Seashore 23. Indicates before 25. Electrical power unit

26. Destitute 27. Drags forcibly 29. Impropriety 30. Word forms 32. Equal to 10 meters 34. Neither 35. Computer language 37. Practice of aging film or TV characters (abbr.)

40. A woolen cap of Scottish origin 42. A promise 43. Challenges 47. Official 49. People living in Myanmar 50. Notable tower 52. Type of sword 53. Vaccine developer 55. Listing 56. Summertime insects 57. Concluding passage 58. Guitarist Clapton 59. Damp and musty 61. Central nervous system 65. Against

The Elmhurst Independent - Thursday, May 15, 2025 • 19

Graue Mill and Museum now open for 2025 season Historic site offers hands-on programs and expert demonstrations on 1850s life

The Forest Preserve District of DuPage County’s Graue Mill and Museum is now open for the 2025 season, offering visitors a glimpse into 1850s life through engaging programs and expert demonstrations.

The historic mill will be open Wednesday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4

p.m. and closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.

Programs on milling, spinning, and weaving will showcase how mills shaped the local culture between 1850 and 1860.

Each Saturday and Sunday at 2 p.m. historical interpreters will demonstrate skills like spinning, weaving, mill

mechanics, and corn grinding.

“Visitors can step back in time and experience history in action,” said Fullersburg Woods campus coordinator Dave Andrusyk. “Whether you’re grinding corn, watching wool transform into thread, or exploring the role of grains, you’ll get a hands-

on glimpse of life 175 years ago.”

Visitors can also enjoy a 0.6-mile walk along the newly restored Salt Creek to the Fullersburg Woods Nature Education Center, which is open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and closed on Sundays. The surrounding forest preserve

is open daily from one hour after sunrise to one hour after sunset.

Admission to Graue Mill and Museum and the Fullersburg Woods Nature Education Center is free. For details, call 630-850-8112.

Located at 3800 York Road in Oak Brook, Graue Mill is the only operating

waterwheel gristmill in the Chicago area and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It is also the only gristmill recognized as an Illinois Historic Mechanical Engineering Landmark by the American Society of Mechanical Engineers for its role in 19th-century technology.

Senate passes Glowiak Hilton bill to help sexual assault survivors get home after treatment After experiencing a sexual assault, survivors often face the added stress of figuring out how to get to a safe location once their medical exam is complete.

To help ease this burden, state Sen. Suzy Glowiak Hilton advanced a bill that would expand the state’s sexual assault services voucher

program to cover transportation following treatment.

“No one should be left stranded after a traumatic experience,” said Glowiak Hilton (D-Western Springs).

“This bill makes sure survivors can get to their next destination safely, without worrying about the cost.”

In Illinois, after an indi-

vidual receives medical care for a sexual assault, hospitals issue a voucher that a patient can use for related health care expenses. The voucher is valid for 90 days from the date of their hospital visit and can be used to cover costs of ambulance rides, medical forensic or laboratory services, pharmacy ex-

Elmhurst Public Library programs Friday, May 16 2-4 p.m.

Friday Features: “Dog” Enjoy an afternoon at the movies. Find each week’s featured film at elmlib.org/Friday.

No registration required.

Tuesday, May 20 7-8 p.m.

The Untold Story Behind Mahjong Yvonne Wolf describes the journey from China to the U.S., what the Majong characters represent, and the difference between Mah Jongg and Mahjong. Then learn about the culSaturday, May 17 tural symbols, Chinese expressions, and cul10 a.m.-noon tural evolution of this internationally popular Canasta: Open Play game.

Join us for a friendly game of Canasta every Live in-person and on Zoom. Registration week. Prior experience is required. required.

No registration required.

Wednesday, May 21 Monday, May 19 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

10 a.m.-noon American Mah Jongg: open play Scrabble Gather every Wednesday for American Mah Play a friendly game of Scrabble. All skill Jongg, a game of skill, strategy, calculation, levels welcome. and a certain amount of chance. Prior experiNo registration required. ence required.

Live in-person. No registration required.

Monday, May 19 1:30-3 p.m.

Wednesday, May 21 Memory Café: Art 7-8 p.m.

Individuals with Alzheimer’s Disease, How Fungi Helped Shape the Midwest dementia, or other cognitive or memory imDylan T. Taylor, President and Founder of pairment disorders, along with their caregiv- Northern Mycology Club in Chicago, explores ers, are welcome to join us each month for ecosystems like savannahs, prairies, and forthemed activities that encourage reminiscing ests in the Midwest and their relationship with and spark memories. This month, we celebrate native species of fungi. famous art styles.

Live in-person and von Zoom. Registration Registration required. required.

Monday, May 19 7-8:30 p.m.

Ciao Italia Improve your Italian language skills while exploring a different aspect of Italian culture each month. All skill levels are welcome.

Registration required.

Thursday, May 22 7-8 p.m.

Pet First Aid Basics Learn how to tend to your pet in a crisis.

DuPage County Animal Services covers preventative care, plus how to treat wounds, broken bones, choking, and more.

Live in-person and on Zoom. Registration required.

Tuesday, May 20 1-3 p.m.

Bridge and Pinochle Friday, May 23 Enjoy and afternoon of card games every 2-4 p.m. week. Prior experience is required.

Friday Features: “Paddington in Peru” No registration required.

Enjoy an afternoon at the movies. Find each week’s featured film at elmlib.org/Friday.

Tuesday, May 20 No registration required.

2-3 p.m.

We want to print your news!

Coloring for Mindfulness What’s going on at your club or organization?

Choose from beautiful designs and become Seeking new members? Hosting a fundraiser? absorbed in the joy of coloring.

No registration required.

Send details to independent@rvpublishing.com

penses and follow-up health care treatment.

Glowiak Hilton’s measure, Senate Bill 1274, would expand the list of eligible expenses covered by the voucher to include taxi or rideshare services, such as Uber or Lyft, to return home or to the transferring hospital, or to reach a shelter.

The legislation follows the recommendation of the Illinois Sexual Assault Medical Forensic Services Implementation Task Force, which identified rideshare services as a helpful option when providing support for sexual assault survivors.

“Expanding what this voucher can be used for is a

small but impactful change that can make a significant difference in a survivor’s healing journey,” said Glowiak Hilton. “We should do all we can to help remove obstacles for individuals during a difficult time.”

Senate Bill 1274 passed the Senate on Thursday, May 8.

Receiving the weekly Elmhurst Independent is as easy as 1-2-3

1. To receive the Elmhurst Independent mailed print version for one year within Elmhurst, make a donation in any amount. IF YOU THINK THE INDEPENDENT IS WORTH 50¢ an issue, it would be $26.00; 75¢ an issue - $39.00 or $1 an issue $52.00. You won’t get a tote bag, T-shirt, coffee mug or CD of Lawrence Welk’s Greatest Hits. But you will get the satisfaction of knowing that you have helped to support your favorite newspaper.

2. Pick up a free copy of the Elmhurst Independent print version at any one of more than 80 newsstand locations in Elmhurst every Thursday 3. Sign up for a free weekly eSubscription that can be read on a computer, laptop or tablet. Your link will be emailed to you every week. Sign up at today at: RockValleyEnews.com --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 Please sign me up for weekly mail home delivery of the Elmhurst Independent print version for one year. Enclosed is my donation. Readers that have made a donation in the last year will continue to receive the Elmhurst Independent by mail at no charge for up to 12 months. There is a $45 minimum for a 1 year subscription outside of Elmhurst.

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Or call 630.834-8244

469225

20 • Thursday, May 15, 2025 - The Elmhurst Independent

The Elmhurst Independent

Sports

The Elmhurst Independent - Thursday, July 16, 2020 • 19

May 15, 2025 • 20

York pitcher Kanouse breaks school career softball strikeout record Dukes record pair of wins against Willowbrook and Sycamore

By Mike Miazga CORRESPONDENT

The York softball team picked up a pair of recent non-conference wins against Willowbrook and Sycamore.

The two wins pushed York to 15-10 overall.

In a 3-1 West Suburban Conference crossover win over Willowbrook, senior pitcher Avery Kanouse broke the school career strikeout record. Kanouse fanned 10 to break the previous benchmark of 507. Kanouse pitched a seven-inning complete game, allowing only

four hits, while fanning 10 and walking one. She threw 76 of 107 pitches for strikes.

Sara Steinecker went 2-for4, while Kayla Winters was 2-for-3 and Kanouse helped her own cause going 2-for3 with a home run and two RBI. Maggie Demopoulos stole two bases.

York also took Game 2 of a non-conference doubleheader against Sycamore by a 7-1 count, thanks to a pair of three-run outbursts in the third and fourth innings. Demopoulos went 2-for-4 with two RBI, while Kanouse was

2-for-3 with a run scored.

Emily McNichols was 2-for3 with two runs scored. Lilly Burda had a double, while McNichols and Demopoulos each tripled. Sophia Lanciloti was the winning pitcher.

She allowed six hits over seven innings and struck out three.

In other recent action, York lost the front-end of that Sycamore twin bill by a 4-3 score in nine innings.

York scored a run in the top of the ninth, but the hosts scored a pair in the bottom of the frame to win it. Bur-

da had York’s only two hits of the game, both doubles.

Sycamore’s pitcher struck out 16 and walked one. Demopoulos had two steals.

Taylor McMillen pitched the first 6 1/3 innings and allowed four hits and struck out one. Kanouse pitched the final two innings.

York also lost a West Suburban Conference Silver Division game to Glenbard West by a 5-3 count.

The Dukes had five hits.

Steinecker had a home run, two runs scored and an RBI, while Myka Matyki-

ewicz had a double, an RBI and two walks. Burda had a hit and an RBI. McMillen pitched the first four innings and struck out five, while allowing five hits. Kanouse pitched the final three innings and fanned five.

In a 3-1 WSC Silver loss to Downers Grove North, Steinecker had three hits, all doubles, while Burda and Matykiewicz (1 RBI) each had a hit. Kanouse allowed only five hits and struck out seven.

York was 3-4 in WSC Silver play through the end

of last week. The Dukes play WSC Silver games this week against Oak Park-River Forest, Proviso West and Lyons Township before a non-conference game Saturday at Bryan Middle School against neighbor IC Catholic Prep.

The Dukes are part of the Class 4A Chicago Marist sectional and will learn their seeding fate and opening game playoff schedule later this week.

York is one of four regional hosts within the Marist sectional.

IC Catholic Prep softball team defeats St. Ignatius Russ goes 4-for-4 with three doubles and seven RBI against Trinity

By Mike Miazga

to move to 15-11 overall and 7-5 in league action.

The IC Catholic Prep softICCP pounded out 13 hits ball team went 2-2 during and broke the game open with a recent three-game Girls two runs in the fifth and four Catholic Athletic Association more in the sixth. Isabella CHRIS FOX PHOTO Elmhurst Independent White Division stretch against Jelic went 2-for-4 with a run Chicago St. Ignatius, Aurora scored and two RBI. Central Catholic and Trinity.

Sophie Anthony Bucolo fires a pitch during a recentSchaeffer U12 baseballwent game.

The Knights recorded a 9-3 2-for-3 with an RBI. Sofia win over Chicago St. Ignatius Bucaro went 2-for-4 with CORRESPONDENT

Player of the week sponsored by

Community Bank

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U12 baseball action

Member FDIC

the loss. She allowed only three earned runs and struck out five.

In an 18-0 win over Trinity, the Knights pounded out 21 hits. Russ went 4-for-4 with three doubles, seven RBI and four runs scored. Ema McMillen had two hits, a double and an RBI, while Jelic had two hits, including a triple.

Hoffman had two hits, three runs scored and one RBI. Cahill went 3-for-4 with two doubles and three RBI and Zito went 3-for-5 with three runs scored. Zito was the winning pitcher. She allowed four hits and fanned five in five in-

nings.

ICCP also dropped a 12-4 game to Aurora Centra Catholic. Dinino went 2-for-3 with a double, while Bucaro was 2-for-4 with a double. Russ went 2-for-4 with a home run and three RBI. Cahill doubled in the game. The Knights finished in third place in the GCAC White with that 7-5 mark. Through 26 games, Zito was leading the team in hitting with a .511 batting average, while Russ had a teamhigh 2 homers. Bucaro had a team-best 35 stolen bases.

“We’ve had some tough losses, but the girls continue

to pick each other up after each at-bat or coming off the field from playing defense,” ICCP coach Frank Reaber said. “They are able to fight back the next game.”

The Knights have non-conference games this week scheduled against Timothy Christian, Fenwick and York before opening Class 2A postseason action. The Knights earned a No. 1 sub-sectional seed and open play in the Class 2A IC Catholic Prep regional on Tuesday, May 21 against the winner of Chicago Disney II and Chicago F.W. Parker.

Timothy Christian names Wyatt new boys basketball coach

LENDER

of Elmhurst

Helped lead massive turnaround in Elmhurst University men’s program

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three runs scored and three stolen bases. Lexi Hoffman was 1-for-3 with a run scored, a double and two RBI. Lexi Russ went 2-for-5 with a run scored, while Kelly Cahill was 2-for-5 with a triple, a run scored and an RBI. Junior Maddy Dinino pitched seven innings and allowed six hits while striking out six.

ICCP lost the first game of the series to St. Ignatius by a 7-2 count. The Knights were limited to five hits. Dinino and Cahill doubled, while Jelic, Hoffman (1 RBI) and Zito each had a single and Russ had an RBI. Ariana Zito took

proudly presents proudly presents

YORK HIGH SCHOOL YORK HIGH SCHOOL PLAYER OF THE WEEK PLAYERGIGI OFBARR THE WEEK YORK GIRLS VOLLEYBALL

Avery Kanouse York Softball

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.

Kanouse, a senior headed to Tufts University in Boston to continue her academic and softball careers, recently broke the York softball record for career strikeouts by a pitcher. She did it in a West Suburban Conference crossover game against Willowbrook where she fanned 10 batters.

By Mike Miazga CORRESPONDENT

Timothy Christian recently announced the hiring of Peyton Wyatt as the high school’s new boys basketball coach.

Wyatt takes over for Scott Plaisier, who had a notable eight-year run in the position.

Timothy Christian athletic director Jack LeGrand noted a committee made up of himself, Timothy assistant athletic director Ryan Dekoekkoek and Timothy constituents received applications for the position from a strong slate of candidates from across the country. “Peyton stood out as a strong Christian leader with an impressive resume leading and revitalizing the basketball program at Elmhurst University,” LeGrand said in a news re-

lease. “His references were effusive in their support of Peyton. We are excited to have a strong Christian leader to head our boys basketball program.”

Wyatt has an extensive and successful record as a basketball coach at the collegiate level. He was the associate head coach at Elmhurst University from 2018-2024 and led a complete turnaround of the school’s basketball program.

Elmhurst went from a record of 12-14 to 25-5 and finished as CCIW tournament champions, a Sweet 16 appearance in the NCAA Division III tournament and a national runner-up finish. Elmhurst also had a national championship appearance in 2022.

“In addition to the preparation of daily practice plans

and game preparation, Wyatt also has extensive experience in organizing youth basketball camps where participation grew from 200 to 500, LeGrand noted. He also organized community service events for the team including a Coaches for Cancer game, Relay for Life and Breast Cancer Awareness Day. “I am incredibly excited about the future of the Timothy Christian High School boys basketball program,” Wyatt said in the release in reference to being asked about his vision for the Timothy program. “My vision is to build a culture of excellence — on the court and in our character — where young men are challenged to grow as athletes, teammates and Christ-followers. This op-

portunity is about more than just basketball. It’s a chance to mentor and influence the next generation to live and play with purpose, integrity and a bold faith in Jesus.”

Wyatt and is wife, Lyndsay (a 2008 Timothy graduate), live in the Western suburbs with their two sons and are active members in a local Elmhurst church. Plaisier’s final 2024-2025 team went 9-21 and took sixth in the Chicagoland Christian Conference with a 3-5 mark. Plaisier went 128-108 in eight seasons at the helm of the Trojans program.

His 2019-2020 team finished fourth in the state in Class 2A (just prior to the COVID pandemic’s start), while his 2019 and 2024 teams won Class 2A regional titles.

The Elmhurst Independent - Thursday, May 15, 2025 • 21

Longtime Chicago friend describes first American pope as ‘very dedicated’ The Rev. Robert Prevost, now Pope Leo XIV, hails from Chicago’s South Side

By Beth Hundsdorfer CAPITOL NEWS ILLINOIS

As the red velvet curtains at the Vatican parted, a priest realized that his college pal from the South Side of Chicago that he knows as “Bob” had been elected the first American pope.

“Oh, dear God,” the Very Rev. Anthony Benedetto Pizzo, the prior provincial of the Augustinian Order in Chicago, said as he heard the news.

Pizzo knew Robert Prevost could be named Pope, but it was an outside chance. Prevost was just named cardinal in 2023. Pope Francis named Prevost the Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops, whose job it is to vet potential bishops. His name had come up a few times to succeed Pope

Francis, Pizzo said, but he wasn’t a named favorite.

“We were waiting with bated breath to see what would happen,” Pizzo said, speaking from Southern Italy, in an interview with Capitol News Illinois.

Pizzo watched as his friend was introduced to the world as Pope Leo XIV. It was the same man he knew in college, seminary and throughout his career—a man dedicated to his faith and his friends.

Pizzo planned to travel to Rome on May 9, but was unsure whether he would see his old friend. He had known Prevost since the men were undergraduates studying at Villanova University in Philadelphia.

Prevost was one of three

brothers living in Dolton on the far South Side. One brother remains in Chicago.

The other lives in Florida.

His father, a World War II veteran, was a teacher and school administrator, Pizzo said. His mother was a librarian.

Young Robert Prevost attended St. Mary of the Assumption Church, located on the Chicago-Dolton border, serving as an altar boy and attending the parish school.

“Bob is such a good friend.

He was there throughout my life,” Pizzo said. “He was there when I made my vows, the death of my parents and my installation as a pastor.”

The man who would become pope likes to drive and enjoyed long treks, driving

back and forth to college with Pizzo, who described him as very open and an excellent companion.

Pizzo said his friend is down to earth, outgoing and well-rounded.

“He was very dedicated and applied himself in all that he did,” Pizzo said.

The two men attended the Catholic Theological Union in Chicago in 1977. The new pope obtained a Master of Divinity degree.

Prevost began doing missionary work in Peru in 1985, serving in various roles including parish pastor, diocesan official, seminary teacher and administrator. He led an Augustinian seminary for a decade.

From 2001-2013, he served

as prior general of the Order of Saint Augustine. He was succeeded by his friend, Pizzo, who continues to serve in the role. In 2014, the young man who grew up in Chicago was appointed Bishop of Chiclayo, Peru.

He became a Peruvian citizen in 2015.

Prevost selected his name after Pope Leo XII, who was famous for his 1891 treatise that outlined rights of workers to a fair wage, safe working conditions and the formation of trade unions.

When Prevost became a cardinal in 2023, Sister Barbara Reid, president of the Catholic Theological Union in Chicago, was in attendance. On Thursday, after the announcement, things got

hectic at CTU. Patrick Bittorf, vice president for development at CTU, was fielding calls and requests for media interviews.

“Well, we graduated a pope!” he said.

Pizzo said he hopes his friend receives all the support he needs in his new role and that he continues to be as attentive as he has been, relying on God’s grace.

And does the new pope have a favorite Chicago baseball team?

Pizzo said his friend is from the South Side and was likely a White Sox fan, but then demurred.

“I mean, we never went to a game or anything, but I would assume …”

State revenue projections improve as economic uncertainty grows But legislature’s revenue estimate remains below Pritzker’s February proposal

By Ben Szalinski CAPITOL NEWS ILLINOIS

The General Assembly’s independent forecasting commission has improved revenue projections for the upcoming fiscal year despite growing economic volatility.

That’s good news for state lawmakers who are in the final weeks of crafting the fiscal year 2026 budget set to take effect July 1. But the Commission on Government Forecasting and Accountability’s upward revision to its revenue forecast remains significantly more conservative than what Gov. JB Pritzker’s office projected when he proposed a budget in February.

COGFA’s latest update now projects $54.5 billion in revenue in FY26 – $266 million more than the commission’s March projection, but still $471 million below the governor’s February projection for baseline revenues.

Pritzker has also proposed

changes to raise an additional $492 million in revenue in FY26, although that number is not factored into the baseline revenue comparison.

COGFA is also projecting state revenue will increase by $317 million in the current fiscal year 2025 compared to its March projection. That means the state would finish the fiscal year at the end of June with $53.9 billion of revenue—above the $53.3 billion lawmakers budgeted for and $31 million more than the governor’s office’s February forecast.

The projected revenue growth was driven by strong April income tax receipts.

April revenue was up $593 million compared to April 2024 and was driven by 20 percent growth in income tax receipts, thanks to higher capital gains and interest earnings last year. Corporate income taxes also grew by 6.6 percent for the month, even though the revenue

source remains down 8.2 percent for the fiscal year.

But there are warning signs in several areas, according to COGFA. The commission lowered expectations for federal receipts for FY25 by 8.5 percent and 6.3 percent in FY26 because the state has been using a fund outside the typical General Revenue Fund for Medicaid-related expenses.

That means reimbursements from the federal government to the state are not reflected in the state’s General Revenue Fund total.

The commission also warned that the federal government could, at any time, decrease financial aid to states, creating more uncertainty.

“Those capital gains revenue increases are not sustainable so as we look at fiscal year 26, we should not expect that as we go into fiscal year 27, I think it’s going to be an even worse look,” COGFA Co-Chair Rep. C.D.

Davidsmeyer, R-Murrayville, said at a news conference last week.

COGFA Revenue Manager Eric Noggle wrote broader economic uncertainty necessitates a “more cautious approach” projecting next year’s revenue numbers.

“The unknown implications of tariffs create many questions related to the duration of the tariffs, their impact on prices, and if these changes could lead to a recession,” Noggle wrote.

“These complicating factors and their potential impact on tax revenues make the revenue estimate for FY 2026 very challenging.”

Recent national economic reports have indicated the U.S. added more jobs than expected in April, but the nation’s gross domestic product declined by 0.3 percent in the first quarter of 2025, marking the first quarter of economic regression since 2022. Personal consumption

grew by 1.8 percent, showing consumers overall aren’t yet cutting back, but it was the slowest growth since spring 2022.

“It’s very concerning because Illinois tends to lag the nation in economic growth and economic stability,” Davidsmeyer said.

The decline in GDP was driven by an increase in imports, COGFA Chief Economist Ben Varner wrote, because businesses are likely “front-loading” foreign purchases before tariffs imposed by the Trump administration kick in and make overseas goods more expensive. Imports are subtracted from domestic growth to calculate GDP. National projections are also blaring more warnings.

Wells Fargo modeling projects stagflation from tariffs and an increase in inflation will cause an economic downturn, while Goldman Sachs’ early April projection

pegs the likelihood of a recession at 45 percent.

“The U.S. economy has entered a precarious phase, with early signs of contraction and rising inflation signaling the potential onset of stagflation,” Varner wrote.

“While domestic demand and business investment remain relatively strong, they are being overshadowed by external shocks—particularly the surge in imports ahead of tariff implementation. The policy-driven volatility is already weighing on forecasts and investor confidence.”

The governor’s proposed $55.2 billion FY26 budget is based on a December S&P Global forecast that projected stable economic growth and considered some of Trump’s proposed economic policies, including tariffs and tax cut extensions, Pritzker budget office director Alexis Sturm said told a legislative committee in February.

IC Catholic Prep girls track team competes at GCAC White championships

By Mike Miazga CORRESPONDENT

Gildea second in 3,200; Kemph third in 400 race; Narcisi fourth in 1,600 run

The IC Catholic Prep girls track team opened the postseason portion of its schedule by competing in the Girls Catholic Athletic Conference White Division championships held at Loyola Academy in Wilmette. In the 3,200 relay, ICCP took third with a time of 10:28.79. That group included Grazie Narcisi, Hayden Calcagno, Chloe Brandt and Kiely Kemph.

Junior Grace Gildea was second in the 3,200 race with a

time of 12:10.62, while junior Gabby Graham was fifth at 16:20.08.

Ingrid Buehling took seventh in the 100 hurdles at 20.18, while Brooke Schmidt was eighth at 20.36.

Dori Manchester was eighth in the 100 open race in 16.62, while Megan Lucas was 11th at 18.89.

Lizzie Cook was ninth in the 100 varsity race with a time of 14.16. Agata Kudlacz was 13th at 15.23. Graham was fifth in the 800 open race in 2:55.65. Brandt was fourth in the 800 varsity race

in 2:37.86, while Calcagno was eighth at 2:54.09.

The Knights were fifth in the 800 relay in 2:09.36 with Kudlacz, Maliyah Smith, Katie Knable and Janny Techamontreekul. Kemph took third in the 400 with a time of 1:03.88. Buehling won the 300 hurdles open race in 58.18.

Kathryn Anderson was fifth in the 300 hurdles with a time of 57.46, while Calcagno was seventh in 58.66.

Narcisi was fourth in the 1,600 with a time of 5:34.08, while

Gildea was sixth in 5:45.57.

Knable was fifth in the 200 open race in 31.04. Schmidt was seventh in the 200 with a time of 29.23.

ICCP took third in the 1,600 relay with Cook, Narcisi, Brandt and Kemph running 4:34.37.

Schmidt was second in the open high jump competition with a mark of 4-0. Anderson was second in the high jump varsity competition with a mark of 4-6.

Techamontreekul was sixth with a jump of 4-2. Lucas was fourth in the long jump open

competition with a mark of 10-1.

Anderson was ninth in the varsity long jump with a mark of 13-4.

Buehling was fifth in the triple jump open competition with a mark of 28-2 1/4. Elise Dacrewas fourth in the shot-put open competition with a mark of 17-8. Gabby Velecela was third in the varsity shot put at 21-8 3/4.

Valencia also was fourth in the varsity discus with a mark of 716. ICCP took 11th overall in the varsity GCAC scoring and was fifth in the White Division with 86.5 points.

22 • Thursday, May 15, 2025 - The Elmhurst Independent

DHS Secretary’s Illinois stop on immigration laws called ‘publicity stunt’ Kristi Noem invokes murder of local activist while bashing Pritzker during 2-hour visit

By Ben Szalinski and Jade Aubrey CAPITOL NEWS ILLINOIS

Two hours in the state capital was enough for U.S. Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem to criticize Illinois’ immigration laws and its governor while invoking the 2023 murder of a local progressive activist.

Her short visit May 7 largely served as an opportunity for an official from President Donald Trump’s cabinet to take photos highlighting immigration policies in a Democrat-run state.

Noem visited a DHS office where she briefly spoke with two people being processed for deportation and then held a news conference with family members of people murdered by noncitizens.

To illustrate her point, Noem held the news conference on the same block where Springfield progressive activist Emma Shafer was murdered in 2023.

Shafer was allegedly stabbed by her partner at their Springfield home.

“She lost her life to an illegal alien that’s still out, at large, probably in this state,” Noem said at a news conference in Springfield. “We can’t con-

firm that because the local law enforcement and the state law enforcement are barred by state law, with the support of Gov. (JB) Pritzker, from sharing any information.”

The suspect in the case has not been arrested and Springfield police said last year the man, a Mexican national, may have fled the country.

Noem’s remarks appalled one of Shafer’s friends who was protesting near the news conference and said Shafer would be advocating for immigrants.

“Emma Shafer would have never supported Trump’s policies and would have never supported what Kristi Noem had to say,” Francesca Butler told Capitol News Illinois. “Emma would want Kristi to know we should lead with compassion and humility.”

Noem said she was not in contact with Shafer’s family and was unaware they were at another site protesting her visit.

Sen. Steve McClure, R-Springfield, said the Republican lawmakers at the news conference didn’t know Shafer was going to be mentioned, but “you have to mention all the people that have been killed by people that shouldn’t have

been here.”

Democratic lawmakers and immigration activists protested Noem’s visit outside the Governor’s Mansion and Capitol Building.

State law does not protect people in Illinois from deportation. Federal officers under Noem’s leadership can still make arrests and deport people in Illinois.

Under the 2017 TRUST Act signed by Republican Gov. Bruce Rauner, Illinois law enforcement is prohibited from arresting a person based solely on their immigration status and in most cases, cannot assist immigration officials with detaining people based on immigration status, according to the Illinois Attorney General’s office.

“This governor has bragged about Illinois being a firewall against President Trump’s immigration enforcement agenda, and it is very clear that he is violating the constitution of the United States because it is a federal law that the federal government set and enforce immigration policies,” Noem said.

Noem claimed Illinois laws make the state less safe, citing a series of crimes committed

by people in the U.S. illegally.

“Governors like JB Pritzker don’t care if gang bangers, rapists and pedophiles roam free in this state,” she said. “If they are here illegally, he’s going to protect them.”

Pritzker slammed the visit as a “publicity stunt” and said Illinois complies with federal immigration laws.

“Trump-Noem publicity stunts do not make our communities safer or our immigration system smarter,” Pritzker said in a statement. “Illinois doesn’t need to abuse power or ignore the Constitution to keep our people safe. Like the millions of Americans asking for sensible, humane immigration reform, I encourage the Secretary to spend less time performing for Fox News and more time protecting the Homeland.”

Pritzker has repeatedly said he supports the federal government deporting people who are illegally in the country if they are convicted of violent crimes.

Republicans are continuing to call for the TRUST Act to be repealed—unlikely in the Democrat-controlled legislature.

“These are crimes that the state could have prevented, had the option to prevent them, and

decided not to,” McClure said.

Noem’s first stop in Springfield was a federal field office where Immigration and Customs Enforcement officials were processing two men.

Noem spoke with ICE officers and one of the two men who were being held in the room while their fingerprints were being scanned. The ICE officer told her that the men were from Guatemala and would eventually be deported because they were illegally in the U.S. Noem asked one of the men a series of questions, including whether he was aware he was being detained and would ultimately be deported, and if he had family in Guatemala. He responded yes to both questions. When an ICE officer told Noem that the man had also been charged with battery, she asked him whether he knew what he was being charged for, to which he replied that he did not understand the question.

Noem’s visit also comes a day after Pritzker agreed to testify next month to the U.S. House Oversight Committee about Illinois’ immigration policies. The Republican-led committee plans to probe Pritzker, New York Gov. Kathy Hochul

and Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz about “policies that shield criminal illegal aliens from immigration enforcement,” according to a news release.

Noem’s visit also comes less than a week after President Donald Trump’s Department of Justice sued Illinois for the second time over state laws aimed at protecting undocumented immigrants.

In February, the U.S. Department of Justice sued over Illinois’ 2017 “sanctuary state” law. Last week, the Trump administration sued Illinois again, this time over Illinois’ new requirement that employers notify workers whose U.S. employment eligibility is flagged when run through the federal E-Verify system, which compares workers’ employment eligibility federal form I-9 with other federal databases.

Illinois law now requires employers to inform workers of their rights to correct their I-9 forms, if flagged by E-Verify as a possible undocumented immigrant, and of impending worksite inspections from ICE. The feds allege the law “disincentivizes” employers from using E-Verify and “encourages unlawful employment of aliens in the United States.”

U.S. Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi announces Senate candidacy Northwest suburban Democrat enters race with cash advantage

By Ben Szalinski CAPITOL NEWS ILLINOIS

U.S. Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi is the latest Democrat to enter the 2026 U.S. Senate primary for retiring Sen. Dick Durbin’s seat.

Krishnamoorthi, of Schaumburg, has represented the 8th Congressional District since 2017. He was born in India and grew up in Peoria.

He earned a law degree from Harvard and has worked in the Illinois Attorney General’s Office and led a small tech

company in the Chicago suburbs.

Describing his middle-class upbringing, Krishnamoorthi said he’ll “never be quiet while billionaires like Elon Musk and a convicted felon deny the dreams of the next generation for their own egos.”

“People want to know: At this moment, in this time, where is the power to fight back?” Krishnamoorthi said in a video launching his campaign. “What does it look like?

Well, I’ll tell you. It looks like

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Krishnamoorthi represents parts of Kane, DuPage and Cook counties. As a candidate for Congress, Krishnamoorthi has often wooed voters with TV commercials showcasing casual mannerisms and his name, telling voters “just call me Raja.” It’s a theme he is continuing as he joins the Senate race.

“I worked on a friend’s campaign that showed Illinois will give you a shot, even if you have a funny name,” Krishnamoorthi said, referring to his stint as an advisor to Barack Obama’s 2004 Senate campaign. “And inspired by Barack’s example, I was elected to Congress.”

As a member of the House, Krishnamoorthi is the ranking member on the Select Committee on Strategic Competition between the United States and the Chinese Communist Party. He also serves on the House intelligence committee.

Like other Democrats around the country, Krishnamoorthi recently visited areas of Illinois outside of his district that are represented by Republicans in Congress to highlight the impacts of the Trump administration’s policies.

Krishnamoorthi is the third

Democrat to enter the race and begins with a big cash advantage. Federal election records show he has $19.4 million in his campaign fund and has consistently raised more money than other members of Illinois’ congressional delegation. His campaign reported

raising $3 million in the first quarter of 2024.

Lt. Gov. Juliana Stratton and U.S. Rep. Robin Kelly, a Matteson Democrat, have also joined the race. Records show Kelly has $2 million on hand while a political action committee launched by Stratton

earlier this year has not reported any contributions yet.

U.S. Rep. Lauren Underwood, a Naperville Democrat, is also exploring a run for the Senate.

No major Republican candidates have entered the race so far.

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The Elmhurst Independent - Thursday, May 15, 2025 • 23

������� ����� ���� ������� “������� �� ������” ��� ���� ��� ���� �� ��������� ����� The Chicago House men’s and women’s soccer teams will open their 2025 home campaigns this weekend, May 17th & 18th at Langhorst Field at Elmhurst University. The Chicago House men’s team will take on their Chicagoland area Midwest Premier League opponent, Czarni Jaslo, on Saturday, May 17th at 7:00pm. The Chicago House women’s team will open their 2025 season with a 3:00pm kick off on Sunday, May 18th as they face Bavarian United SC, a very talented North Lakes Conference – Lake Michigan Division team.

“The Chicago House, a soccer club with a social conscience, is proud to bring to Elmhurst and the surrounding areas soccer matches at Langhorst Field that promises to bring a highly talented and competitive brand of soccer and affordable family fun.” said Peter Wilt, Chicago House President and CEO. House fans are encouraged to arrive 60 minutes prior to game time. Pre-game activities during “House Fest” will offer great food, music, raffles, and fun activities for the entire family.

What can House fans expect: “The Men's home opener on May 17th will celebrate Armed Forces Day; the theme is "Salute to Veterans," said Sherri Jones, Chicago House Community Engagement Committee Chair. “This year every game is providing a different fan experience with different themes,” Jones continued. “The half time activities will feature an interactive fan experience - a first for Chicago House. Vendors and activities, including the half time events, will be centered around this “Salute to Veterans” theme.” Chicago House is offering reduced adult tickets for the May 17th match starting at just $9.00 for qualified Veterans (DD214 or military ID). Come out to enjoy Chicago House soccer and show your support for our Veterans!

The Chicago House Women’s team home opener on May 18th will be themed “Lets Get and Stay Fit” as a way to recognize National Physical Fitness Month.

Katie McCue, Assistant Coach of the Chicago House Women’s team encourages House fans to enjoy the fan experience throughout the game as well as the fitness activities during halftime. Lucky House fans will be randomly chosen from the crowd to form teams and participate in a soccer ball dribbling relay race.

“As a coach, we are very excited to engage with the community and learn more about how we can support and add to the already vibrant environment,” said McCue. In other House news: Both Chicago House Men’s and Women’s teams will be on the road for a double header vs the Green Bay Glory teams in a double header on May 25th. House fans can view the games via live stream from Green Bay. Visit the Chicago House website for game times and live stream links.

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24 • Thursday, May 15, 2025 - The Elmhurst Independent

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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

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

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

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

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

FIND BARGAINS IN THE CLASSIFIEDS!

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

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Business & Service DIRECTORY Tree Services

AL’S PAINTING SERVICE

No Tree Is Beyond Our Reach!

We Have The Newest State-Of-The-Art Tree Equipment To Meet Your Needs Safely & Efficiently

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

470930

CommerCial & resiDential tree experts

Free Estimates ~ Call 630-853-3059

708-681-9031

FREE Evaluations

tree maintenanCe program To Fit Your Needs Available 24 Hours For All Your Emergency Needs

Plumbing

Tree Services

WEST SIDE PLUMBING, INC.

T & M TREE SERVICE

453463

From A Drip To A Water Heater Your Complete Plumbing Repair & Service Company Licensed, Bonded, Insured

Call

630-834-8244 or (Lombard) 630-627-7010

(Elmhurst)

469559

DetaileD expert trimming & pruning to Keep Your trees HealtHY & propertY Well maintaineD

• Pruning • Complete Removal Of Unhealthy Or Overgrown Trees • Tree & Stump Removal • Storm Damage Cleanup • Firewood Available • Insurance Work Welcome • 24-Hour Emergency Service

Time To Sell Your Home?

for details on placing an ad

• Tree Removal • Tree Trimming • Bush Removal • Stump Grinding • Free wood chips • Free Estimates • Insured Call Todd

630-303-4641

tandmtreeserve@att.net

Siding/Gutters

To be included in the

JK MAINTENANCE GUTTERS CLEANED • FAST • CLEAN • INSURED Call 630-673-2182

Business & Service

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• Interior & Exterior Painting • Power Washing Anything • Tuckpointing

DIRECTORY

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Call 630.834.8244 to Advertise In Print and Online Reaching Elmhurst •Addison •Bensenville Lombard • Villa Park and Beyond

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630-495-9650

Trucks & Trailers

FOR SALE: 2017 RAM 1500 PICKUP TRUCK, black with low mileage, $20,000. 630-673-9052

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Painting

Campers and RVs

1994 WINNEBAGO WARRIOR 22’ REDUCED TO SELL $8500.00! V8 454 engine, 97,200 miles. Newer tires, new battery, new sub floor and flooring. Generator, small drop-down bed above cab, couch becomes double bed, table drops to bed and extra double sleeping space in rear. Rooftop A/C works great.

Dash A/C needs charge. Rust free, runs good and ready for travel! Located NW Rockford.

Call 815-262-1479.

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26 • Thursday, May 15, 2025 - The Elmhurst Independent

BEST FOR BUSINESS Make the smart move for your business open a Business Checking account at Republic Bank of Chicago and experience banking beyond expectations.

19 Chicagoland Locations

rbankchicago.com

888-808-1964

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The Elmhurst Independent - Thursday, May 15, 2025 • 27

E L M H U R S T 130 W. PARK AVE.

Shelley Brzozowski-O’Grady • 5bed/6ba • $2,400,000 847.772.4549 • 500 S Kenilworth Avenue

Maria Gracik • 4bed/3.1ba • $1,575,000 630.306.7882 • 217 N Larch Avenue

Schiller/Bogdanowicz • 6bed/4.2ba • $2,125,000 630.992.0582 • 132 S Chandler Avenue

Debbie Obradovich • 5bed/4.1ba • $1,450,000 630.935.8106 • 952 S Fairfield Avenue

Maciej Wierzchucki • 4bed/3ba • $1,170,000 773.704.0271 • 0S424 S Cadwell Avenue

The Schiller Team • 4bed/3.1ba • $1,750,000 630.992.0582 • 270 N Geneva Avenue

The Schiller Team • 4bed/5ba • $1,325,000 630.814.4065 • 410 W 2nd Street

Cara Wilkins • 5bed/3ba • $1,164,000 630.779.1945 • 816 S Spring Road

Novack/Jablonowski • 4bed/3.1ba • $1,195,000 773.848.1464 • 258 N Maple Avenue

The Schiller Team • 4bed/2.1ba • $995,000 630.814.4065 • 198 S Hawthorne Avenue

MICHIGAN

The Schiller Team • 4bed/2.2ba • $869,900 630.814.4065 • 265 W Adams Street

Kris Maranda • 3bed/2.1ba • $765,000 630.699.2211 • 261 N Evergreen Avenue

NEW BUFFALO Jan Smith • 5bed/3.1ba $4,150,000 • 773.230.0839 16453 Meadow Wood Drive

NEW BUFFALO Liz Roch • 6bed/4.1ba $2,950,000 • 312.636.8751 47007 Lake View Avenue

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28 • Thursday, May 15, 2025 - The Elmhurst Independent

Well over sixty years, Pedersen Ryberg has provided meaningful and proven options with total respect in keeping with traditional values - whether a traditional funeral, traditional cremation, flameless cremation, or memorial service. We strive to maintain family wishes with uncompromised quality and value, and guide families in creating a way to remember loved ones.

What We Do Permanent Memorialization Having a place to spend time after a loss, a dedicated place where you can find comfort, will make all the difference to those left behind. We will help you to create the perfect lasting memorial.

Pre-Planning

We’re here for you

Peace of Mind Option to Pre-Pay Relieves Burden on Family to make Decisions

Respect Compassion Comfortability Affordable for any budget

435 North York Street • Elmhurst, Illinois 60126 www.PedersenRyberg.com

•

info@PedersenRyberg.com

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(630) 834-1133