EI052324

At the Spring Road Pet Parade

Pet Parade co-chair Andrea Pokrefke (far right) pauses to meet the owners of some of the more unique pets that attended the Spring Road Pet Parade on Saturday, May 18. The young man on the far left holds a snake and the girl next to him has

City staff offers capital budget presentation

By Dee Longfellow FOR THE ELMHURST INDEPENDENT

On Monday, May 13, following regular Committee meetings, the City Council met as Committee of the Whole (COW) to hear a capital budget overview provided by City Manager James Grabowski and his staff.

Mayor Scott Levin began the meeting, explaining that this kind of presentation had never been done

Shampoo & clean carpets & seats & detail interior & exterior with buffing to bring the original shine back & remove scuff marks & minor scratches. Call for an appointment. v v v We also have unlimited monthly passes.

before quite like this. He thought it would especially be informative for the newer aldermen, since there are a number of projects that have capital budget implications.

“It is intended to be educational so we all know what the capital budget is, what it does, how it works, the role of staff, the role of the Council, etc.,” Levin said. “I do not want to get into specific priorities, such as the train station versus the police sta-

tion versus lead pipe removal.

“We are setting the table to have discussion later.”

Grabowski began the overview with the Capital Expenditure Budget (CEB), which is “a long-term financial planning tool to identify and plan for City projects.”

“It is a planning tool, it is NOT the annual budget,” Grabowski pointed out. “That is the operating budget and not all projects in CEB are

put into the operating budget every year.”

The CEB includes: “projects and expenditures of $25,000 or more that results in the acquisition or construction of fixed assets intended to be held or used for a period of ten years or more.”

Expenditures in the five-year CEB areas include:

• street and sidewalk programs

• municipal utility (water and sew-

er)

• stormwater

• buildings

• major equipment

• other (vehicles, software, electrical, etc.)

Enterprise Funds

According to the Plan, Enterprise Funds are “in their own business or See BUDGET, Page 4

Elmhurst University’s Class of 2024 celebrates its commencement

Amid summerlike temperatures and a merciful absence of cicadas, Elmhurst University held its 153rd commencement exercises on Saturday, May 18, for the Class of 2024.

During three ceremonies held throughout the day, nearly 820 undergraduate and graduate students walked across the stage to accept their diplomas, out of approximately 1,094 Elmhurst students who earned degrees.

As he welcomed the graduating seniors, President Troy D. VanAken noted that most had missed out on their high graduation ceremonies four years ago because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“So on behalf of the entire University community, it is our privilege to be with you today to celebrate this most important occasion!” he said.

At the ceremony for graduate students, master’s degrees were awarded in the fields of business, education, health care and technology. An honorary doctorate of law was awarded to alumna Alpha M. Brady (Class of 1983), executive director and chief operating officer of the American Bar Association (ABA).

In her commencement address, Brady, the first woman of color to lead the ABA, described the nurturing relationships she developed as an Elmhurst student and the impact they would have on her career and life. She urged the graduates to cherish their relationships, especially with the “balcony people” who would always root for them.

“Whether it is the friends who will

become lifelong connections, the professors who opened you up to new perspectives and challenged you to unleash your inner potential, or the advisors and mentors who offered guidance and encouragement throughout your time here, the relationships you have forged are one of the most valuable investments you could have made,” she said.

At the ceremonies for the University’s undergraduate students, an honorary doctorate of humane letters was awarded to alumnus William Panici (Class of 1961), an award-winning real estate agent in Washington, D.C., and a former professor of foreign languages.

During his address to the graduates, Panici spoke about his transformative study abroad experience in France as an Elmhurst student, and how it led him to pursue two successful careers.

“My experience opened my mind to show me how much people elsewhere are striving for the same things we strive for … but simply happen to be doing it in a different way,” he said. “So keep your options open. Find that hidden talent and explore it. You never know where it will lead you.”

President VanAken emphasized that the University community the students joined as they began their journey at Elmhurst, and the knowledge and skills they acquired along the way, would contribute to enduring success for both the students and the institution.

“The imprint you have left on Elmhurst University is as unique and individual as each of you,” he said, “but

University held its commencement exercises for its Class of 2024 on Saturday, May 18. The university conducted three ceremonies during the day. Elmhurst University graduate Elizabeth Holtquist is pictured at one of those ceremonies.

combined, they create a legacy—one that is rich in traditions, has made a meaningful impact on our campus, and is strengthened by each student who has chosen to join us.”

Elmhurst University is a leading four-year institution of higher education that seamlessly blends a liberal arts education and professional preparation to help students acquire knowledge and skills for enduring success.

Founded in 1871, Elmhurst now offers more than 70 undergraduate programs of study, more than 20 graduate and certificate programs in flexible formats, and the Elmhurst Learning and Success Academy for young adults with differing abilities. Elmhurst University ranks among the top 10 best regional colleges and universities in the Midwest, according to U.S. News & World Report.

EMMA FILIPSSON PHOTO Rock Valley Publishing Elmhurst

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. Periodical Postage Paid at Elmhurst, IL.

Display Advertising:

630.834-8355

Classified Advertising:

630.834-8244

News:

630.834-8244

General Information:

630.834-8244

E-mail:

Advertising Department: ads1@rvpublishing.com

News Department: Independent@rvpublishing.com

Classified Department: Classifieds@rvpublishing.com

Administration:

Dee Longfellow News Coordinator

Debra Hamilton Advertising Director

Pete Cruger Publisher

Advertising: Brenda Garcia

Subscriptions:

The Elmhurst Independent is mailed at no charge by request to residents in the 60126 zip code area. Out-of-area mail subscriptions are $29.95 yearly. Single copies are also available at more than 80 newsstand locations in Elmhurst. For home delivery information call 630.834-8244.

Reprints:

Content appearing in the Elmhurst Independent may not be reprinted without permission of the publisher or editor. Requests should be directed to Independent@rvpublishing.com or 630.834-8244.

Postmaster: Please send address changes to:

THE ELMHURST INDEPENDENT

240 N. West Avenue, Elmhurst, IL. 60126

Office Hours:

Monday-Friday 11am-3pm

Under my father’s fedora

Dreams can come true at any age

By DEE LONGFELLOW Columnist

My 70th birthday has come and gone and I seem no worse for wear.

A big thank-you is owed to my good friends John Quigley (of ECCI fame) and Debbie Serritella (my hairdresser!), who organized the party that took place at the Elmhurst American Legion THB Post 187 on Sunday, May 5—Cinco de Mayo and my actual birthday.

A personal THANK YOU to all who attended, especially because it was an extremely busy weekend in the community, with Art in Wilder Park, etc. Even the Legion had a flagburning ceremony that Sunday.

My sweetheart Paul took photos at the party. At one point, Debbie brought his camera bag over to me, saying he needed something from inside. I opened it and—surprise!— there was a tell-tale little blue bag from Tiffany & Co., containing a beautiful bracelet.

“I like the charm with the little diamond chip,” Paul told the salesperson.

“Oh, sir, that is not a ‘chip’,” she corrected him. “That is a real Tiffanycut diamond. It’s the smallest one we make—it is 0.005 carats.”

Yeah, we’re Tiffany, we don’t do “chips.”

I displayed some personal memorabilia – my high school and college yearbooks, some baby pictures, dance recital photos, my Character Counts award, etc. The big hit was my mother’s 1941 yearbook from TCU (Texas Christian University). TCU is a HUGE football school—as proof, in the sports section of the yearbook, for example, there is one page for intramurals, one for bowling, one for tennis; two pages for basketball, track and field, etc.

Football? There’s a full page for every game! Score across the top, a shot of the action, a game synopsis and a spotlight with photos on three

• Budget

of the individual players. Yes, that’s what you call a football school. And that’s why I am a TCU fan. Riff Ram!

Back to dreams coming true …

My dream—literally a dream I had as a little girl—was to have birthday wishes expressed on all the marquee signs in town.

That wish came true, thanks to my friends at Community Bank of Elmhurst (see accompanying photos). I was surprised, honored and delighted all at once. Thank you to whoever made that happen—lookin’ at you, Rich Reichert!

The other dream expressed in a recent “Fedora” was to see my

(Continued from page 2)

subsidiary” of the City, that is, they are meant to sustain themselves and to recover the cost of their own capital projects by providing a service which is funded by user rates and charges. These include the Municipal Utility Fund (MUF) and the Parking Fund, which together cover 95% of the total Enterprise Fund.

A total of $46.2 million was budgeted in the MUF for capital projects in 2024, the largest of which was the wastewater utility plant. The MUF also includes $4.7 million budgeted for debt service in 2024, which is primarily for IEPA loans obtained for various projects.

The Parking Fund has a budget of $70,000 for the City’s parking lots and decks. There is a fund transfer

from the Capital Improvement Fund of $1.2 million for debt service, primarily for the Addison St. parking deck, which is $900,000 annually.

The City is currently considering the use of TIF 6 Funds to perform parking deck repairs and to install charging stations for electric vehicles.

Governmental Capital Funds

These are funds meant to recover the cost of capital projects through tax revenue, whether generated locally or passed through the state or federal government. Some are unrestricted, meaning the City can use the revenue to support any type of capital project. Restricted funds are either based on state statute, mean-

stepchildren again and lo and behold, that column caught the attention of my former neighbor Dianne Zunkel. Her husband, Les, directed the York drama department for many years and their sons, Nat and Ben, were good friends of my stepson, John Born. Nat Zunkel and John were the top dogs of the York football team back in their day. Dianne graciously sent me an email saying Ben is in touch with John or may know someone who is. I haven’t made that happen yet, but I’m looking forward to it more than anything. Results will be published in a future column—I hope with good news!

One more thing … Thank you to “dah Boss” –publisher Pete Cruger who attended, along with Mike and Brenda from our staff.

Pete gave me the coolest book— The Hearsts—a history of the big publishing empire that began with William Randolph and eventually led to Patty and her kidnapping in the 1970s.

I have the perfect “bookend” for it—The Medills—a history of the McCormick family all the way back to Robert (whose mother dressed him like a little girl!)—and the namesake for the Medill School of Journalism at Northwestern University.

ing the state has specifications on how the funds are used, or by the City itself, following its own “agreements,” to use those funds in a particular way.

The City’s General Fund and Capital Improvement Fund work together to fund the City’s many programs and, while the General Fund does provide some funding toward capital projects, its primary focus is the daily operations of the City.

Governmental Capital Funds include:

Toward the end of the presentation, there was a pie chart, showing the City’s 2024 CEB five-year total revenue sources by fund. They include:

$45,732,048 (15%)

SUBMITTED PHOTOS Elmhurst Independent

BETTER EVENT Hearing

Getting your hearing checked is the first step to better hearing health, which is why we’re offering Free* Hearing Evaluations at our limited-time event!

Your local Miracle-Ear® Hearing Instrument Specialist will use a video otoscope to look inside your ear canal. This process is painless and will help determine the cause for any changes you’ve noticed in your hearing or concerns you have about hearing loss.

Your Exam May Reveal Such Common Problems As:

• Excessive Wax Build-Up

• Damage To Your Eardrum

• Other Conditions Which May Make It Difficult To Hear Clearly

After the completion of your exam, you will receive a Free** Walmart or Target Gift Card, along with an individualized plan to address your hearing health needs.

You’ve got nothing to lose and so many wonderful sounds to gain!

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.

Criminal damage, trespass to property

May 14

Police said an unknown suspect(s) vandalized two wooden signs outside of a building at York High School with orange spray paint. A complainant at Elmhurst Hospital reported that a suspect damaged a TV, a computer monitor, and a wall mount. The hospital will sign complaints for criminal damage to property.

May 12

A victim in the 400 block of N. Ridgeland reported at 12:12 a.m. that two unknown suspects, wearing masks, threw a metal object at the driver’s side window of their vehicle. Both suspects fled when they were confronted by the homeowner’s son.

May 10

Police said that subsequent to a suspicious noise in the 400 block of N. Ridgeland, a victim discovered the windows of her vehicle were broken. An investigation is pending.

May 5

A victim in the 400 block of N. Ridgeland told police that an unknown suspect(s) shattered the rear window of his blue 2022 Kia Niro. An investigation is pending.

Domestic battery, domestic incident, disorderly conduct, disturbance, dispute

May 15

A 30-year-old Glendale Heights woman was charged with two counts of domestic battery near North and York at 6:50 p.m. Police said a victim had exited the suspect’s vehicle during an argument. The suspect followed him out of her car and repeatedly struck him.

May 13

A complainant in the 600 block of W. Gladys told police that while assisting the suspect, he struck her in the neck/shoulder. The reporting officer met with the suspect who denied harming the complainant. Due to conflicting statements and no visible injuries observed, no arrests were made.

May 12

A 26-year-old Joliet woman was charged with two counts of domestic battery at Elm Creek Court at 10:32 p.m. Police said a victim reported the suspect slapped him in the face following an argument.

May 11

Connon Leahy, 24, of Elmhurst, was issued a citation for disorderly conduct in the 100 block of W. Park at 2:05 a.m. Police said that subsequent to a disturbance, the complainant reported the suspect screamed at her and threatened to damage her vehicle.

May 9

Amy Nowak, 50, of Lombard, was issued a citation for disorderly conduct in the 200

block of N. York at 4:23 p.m. Police said that Subsequent to a report of a disturbance, the victim relates Nowak approached his vehicle and began yelling at him for how he was parked. Nowak then opened the victim’s door and continued to yell at the victim, according to police.

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

May 12

Vito D. D’Amore, 30, of Highland Park, was charged with DUI, aggravated DUI, felony driving while license revoked, disobeying a traffic control device, obstruction and no insurance subsequent to a traffic stop near Route 83 and Hodges at 12:23 a.m.

May 10

Ivanna Krasulia, 36, of Elmhurst, was charged with DUI and two counts of endangering the life of a child in the 100 block of E. Butterfield at 1:08 p.m. Police said officers found the suspect’s children were inside the vehicle. DCFS was notified, and the children were released to an authorized caregiver, according to police.

Julia Roche, 37, of Chicago, was charged with DUI, failure to yield turning left, illegal transportation of open alcohol and no insurance near Lake and Grand at 1:27 p.m.

Identity theft, fraud

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

Possession of cannabis in a vehicle

According to information provided last week by the Elmhurst Police Department, police reported four incidents of possession of cannabis by either the driver of a vehicle or a passenger: Leonardo Hernandez, 23, of Chicago, in the 1000 block of S. Spring at 2:39 a.m. May 9; Jonathan Aleman, 21, of Cicero, near North and Maple at 11:50 p.m. May 10; Peter Bellos, 31, of Des Plaines, near North and Route 83 at 9;01 a.m. May 15; and Samuel Surumay, 37, of Chicago, near Poplar and Adelia at 2:13 a.m. May 14.

Suspicious incident

May 13

Scott Longhenry, 55, of Palatine, was charged with public indecency in the 900 block of N. Oaklawn at 3:22 p.m. Police said a complainant related the suspect exposed himself to her.

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

May 15

Willie Hicks, 40, of Chicago, was charged with unlawful display of registration, no valid registration, improper lane usage and no insurance near I-290 and York at 12:13 a.m. Police said Hicks had a counterfeit temporary Indiana plate.

Syed Zainuddin, 24, of Villa Park, was charged with no valid driver’s license, speeding and possession of a fictitious/altered ID card subsequent to a traffic stop near Villa and Vermont at 12:34 p.m.

April 1-May 11

A victim in the 100 block of E. May reported she is missing a gold necklace and a pair of diamond earrings.

May 10

Police said a reporting officer met with loss prevention at a store in the 300 block of S. Route 83 who reported a retail theft had occurred involving a male and female suspect.

May 9

Police said officers responded to a pharmacy in the 100 block of W. North at 12:58 p.m. for the report of a retail theft that just occurred. An unknown suspect concealed items and left the store without paying. An officer attempted to conduct a traffic stop on the suspect’s vehicle, but the suspect fled at a high rate of speed, last

seen eastbound on North Avenue.

A complainant in the 100 block of S. Route 83 told police that an unknown suspect approached him asking for funeral donations. The victim agreed to donate cash through Apple Pay. After the payment went through, the victim noticed the transfer went through for a larger amount of money than he transferred. The victim contacted his bank and froze his account.

Police said a complainant at a store in the 900 block of S. York reported a suspect entered the store, concealed a bottle of liquor and exited the store without paying. This case is pending investigation.

May 5

A victim in the 400 block of Schiller told police that an unknown person(s) entered his unlocked vehicle and stole his wallet. The victim relates he noticed several fraudulent charges on his credit card.

Warrant arrest

May 12

Police said that Rafael Quintero Cifuentes, 86, of Bensenville, had an active warrant out of the DuPage County Sheriff’s Office near North and York at 9:04 p.m. The suspect also was charged with driving while license suspended.

May 9

Police said that officers responded to the 100 block of N. Addison for a check on well-being. Upon arrival, police said James Hale, 71, of Elk Grove Village, was found to have a valid warrant out of McHenry County. He was taken into custody and transported to the police department.

DuPage County Health Department observes Hepatitis Awareness Month

May is Hepatitis Awareness Month and Sunday, May 19, was Hepatitis Testing Day.

The DuPage County Health Department (DCHD), Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and public health partners work to shed light on the impact of these hidden epidemics by raising awareness of viral hepatitis while encouraging testing and vaccination. Getting tested is the only way to know if you have hepatitis A, hepatitis B, or hepatitis C. The CDC recommends all adults get tested for hepatitis B and hepatitis C at least once in their lifetime and pregnant women get tested during each pregnancy.

Both hepatitis A and hepatitis B are preventable with safe and effective vaccines, and hepatitis C is curable with prescribed treatment—preventing liver damage and further spread.

The word ‘hepatitis’ means inflammation of the liver. When the liver is inflamed or damaged, its function can be affected. Heavy alcohol use, toxins, some medications, and certain medical conditions can cause hepatitis, but oftentimes it is a virus that is responsible.

Many people with hepatitis do not have symptoms and do not know they are infected. If symptoms occur with an acute infection, they can appear anytime from 2 weeks to 6 months after exposure.

Left untreated, hepatitis B and hepatitis C can lead to lasting liver damage and even lead to liver cancer. Among DuPage County residents between 2019 and 2023, the number of hepatitis cases has fluctuated: • Hepatitis A cases ranged from 2 cases (2021) to 10 cases (2023).

• Hepatitis B cases ranged from 85 cases (2020) to 131 cases (2019).

• Hepatitis C cases ranged from 80 cases (2023) to 204 cases (2019).

Locally and nationally, the number of reported viral hepatitis cases since 2020 may be lower than in years before the COVID-19 pandemic began. However, these numbers illustrate the need for increased awareness and timely vaccination, testing, and treatment.

Through the Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI) Clinic, DCHD connects eligible residents to primary care providers and local federally qualified health centers for hepatitis C testing and treatment.

Schedule an STI Clinic appointment by calling 630-682-7400. Protect yourself and your loved ones by getting tested and vaccinated against hepatitis.

Learn more about prevention and treatment at www.cdc.gov/hepatitis/awareness/HepatitisABCs.htm.

Giannoulias to Illinoisans: ‘Get Real’

Secretary of State urges residents to get REAL IDs as federal deadline approaches

With the federal deadline exactly one year away, Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias is encouraging Illinoisans to “Get Real” and obtain a REAL ID.

Giannoulias announced the launch of the office’s “Get Real Illinois” campaign designed to raise awareness throughout the year.

After the May 7, 2025 deadline, domestic travelers 18 and older on commercial flights must have a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or state ID card.

Travelers will still be able to board domestic flights with a U.S. passport, which is already REAL ID-compliant. A REAL ID will also be required to enter some federal facilities such as courthouses and military bases.

The deadline for obtaining the

REAL ID has been pushed back multiple times, most recently in 2022 when the Department of Homeland Security cited the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the state’s ability to issue licenses.

“I strongly encourage residents who intend to fly to get their REAL ID as soon as possible to avoid future headaches,” Giannoulias said. “Our DMV facilities stand ready to help customers get their new driver’s licenses and identification cards before the federal deadline.”

“TSA is looking forward to continued close collaboration with the Illinois Secretary of State’s office to raise awareness and adoption of REAL ID throughout the state,” said Jim Spriggs, TSA Illinois Federal Security director. “Beginning May 8, 2024, TSA officers will proac-

tively provide information to passengers who do not present a REAL ID Compliant state-issued driver’s license or identification. These efforts are in preparation of REAL ID enforcement, which will occur on May 7, 2025.”

Passengers can visit tsa.gov for a full list of acceptable IDs for air travel.

Currently, just over 3 million Illinois residents—or 23.5 percent— hold a REAL ID driver’s license or state ID.

The REAL ID law was passed by Congress in 2005 based on a recommendation from the 9/11 Commission Report. The Department of Homeland Security established the standards that state-issued driver’s licenses and ID cards must meet to increase security measures for air-

ports and federal facilities.

Illinois began offering REAL IDs in 2019. Illinois driver’s licenses and ID cards that are REAL ID-compliant include a gold circle with a white star in the top right-hand corner of the card.

Individuals applying for a REAL ID must do so in-person at an Illinois DMV and are required to present:

• Either a U.S. birth certificate, U.S. passport, Naturalization Certificate, Report of Birth Abroad or a Certificate of Citizenship. If you are not a U.S. citizen, an employment authorization document, a permanent resident card or a foreign passport with an approved I-94 form is also acceptable. If you’ve changed your name, you’ll need to provide name change documents.

• Proof of a full Social Security

number (SSN). Examples include: a Social Security card, a W-2 or a pay stub with your full SSN.

• Two current residency documents that list your full name. Examples include: a utility bill, rental agreement, deed/title or a bank statement.

• Proof of your signature. Examples include: a signed credit or debit card, canceled check, or current state driver’s license or state ID. Illinois residents can go online to access an interactive checklist to make sure they have the documents they need before heading to a DMV. Some Illinois DMVs require an appointment, so residents are encouraged to plan ahead if they need to schedule one and visit www.ilsos. gov/departments/drivers/appointments/.

DuPage Forest Preserve reminds public of benefits of time in nature during Mental Health Awareness Month

In recognition of May as Mental Health Awareness Month, the Forest Preserve District of DuPage County reminds people of the mental health benefits of time in nature.

Research suggests that spending time in natural environments, such as DuPage forest preserves, can have profound positive effects on mental well-being.

Time spent in green open spaces can reduce stress, alleviate symptoms of anxiety and depression, and improve overall psychological resilience.

Specifically for individuals with

post-traumatic stress disorder, nature exposure has shown promise in reducing symptoms and enhancing coping mechanisms. Additionally, it can improve memory, attention, creativity, and quality of sleep. In support and recognition of people who may be experiencing a mental health crisis in a forest preserve, each year Forest Preserve District police officers undergo state-mandated training that includes a fivehour course addressing ways to better respond to individuals in various types of crises. Additionally, all sergeants and

several officers are certified members of the Illinois Law Enforcement Training and Standards Board’s Crisis Intervention Team. Participants of this specialized one-week, 40-hour program receive intensive training on assisting individuals who have a mental illness or other behavioral disabilities.

To mark Mental Health Awareness Month, the Forest Preserve District’s entire force of 25 officers is wearing badges and pins featuring green ribbons.

In 2023 Forest Preserve District police responded to 17 crisis inter-

A special day at Immaculate Conception

vention calls, providing critical support and assistance to individuals in distress.

The Forest Preserve District also participates with agencies such as the DuPage County Health Department; Linden Oaks Behavioral Health; and local cities, park districts, forest preserve districts, and police and fire departments to provide critical assistance to individuals in distress, including posting information about the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.

One effort uses data from police and fire department records to identify locations where suicide attempts

have occurred and isolated areas where suicide attempts may occur and directs police patrols to these locations.

Year-round, Forest Preserve District police officers enforce federal, state, and county laws as well as the district’s General Use Regulation Ordinance while ensuring the safety of life and property within the preserves. Officers patrol on foot, by bicycle, ATV, and squad car, responding to emergencies, safety concerns, and service calls with the highest principles of the law enforcement profession.

Viewpoint

Slices of life

The complexities of grief—part 1 of 2

Life is complicated. I think we can all agree to that.

But beyond life, well, lots of the details are complicated. Relationships. Families. Love. Deciding on the right toothpaste. Which properties to buy in Monopoly. Choosing between The Voice or American Idol. Survivor or The Bachelor. Texas Hold’em or five card draw. What to put on a burger: ketchup, mustard, mayo or a combination of the three.

They’re all complex.

And, if life and the relationships we build during it are all complicated, it goes without saying that the loss of a love or a life is also complex.

The loss of someone or something brings with it the inevitable grief. We all know and understand this. Grief follows loss. That’s pretty simple.

This loss often needs and benefits from professional therapy. Help. I had that in the first hours, days, weeks and months of my own grief. It helps to have someone to talk to.

Beyond that, however, our knowledge of grief may be lacking. Because the uniqueness of grief makes it nearly undefinable.

Love is unique, and that makes grief unique as well.

Add to this the fact that as a culture we most often don’t want to talk about or think about grief publicly and you only add to the mystery, and perhaps the terror.

I don’t mean to get all Michael Myers on you, but grief really does wear a mask. It is hidden in plain sight. It is complicated.

And therein lies the rub. I recently learned there is a term to describe grief: complicated.

You read that right. There is an actual thing called “complicated grief,” like simple grief ever was or could be a thing.

Right? Think again. I literally smile as I write this, in the most sarcastic way possible.

There is no grief, no real grief, that is not complicated. It needs no medical or psychological term to make it real.

Or complex. It always has been.

My grandma lost her first-born son when he was 16. She was 42

By JILL PERTLER Columnist

and had recently given birth to my mom. This was in the winter northern Minnesota in1933 and the ground was frozen solid, making it impossible to dig a grave.

She and my grandpa had no choice but to keep the body of their dead son in the root cellar while she nursed her baby daughter upstairs. They kept the body of their son on ice until spring, when a proper burial could be had.

Don’t tell me that in any way my grandma and grandpa experienced simple (or even regular) grief. They lived through complicated, even though complicated hadn’t been invented yet.

Life has always been complicated. We all know this. And if life is indeed complicated (and it is), how can one of the most difficult events in life not be complicated as well and what’s wrong with labeling it as such?

That’s a good question (I said to myself). The problem with labeling grief is labeling grief. This is a conundrum I’ve run into a few times myself.

People want to quantify grief. Losing a child is worse than losing a spouse. Losing a spouse is worse than losing a child. Divorce is worse than death. And so on.

There is no magic equation. There is no quantifying method that makes any sense. You can’t quantify grief. Period.

Just like you can’t cure grief, or solve grief, or end grief or label it as simple or normal or complicated. There are some things in life that defy labels.

And coming from someone who knows, firsthand, I believe grief is one of them. Sadly enough.

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

MEMORIAL DAY, MONDAY, MAY 27

Prescription drug discount program a vital lifeline to

By Ollie Idowu

quality, affordable health care

With the Illinois Legislature ready to end its spring legislative session soon, our health care facilities are dialing 911 to save the 340B program that provides prescription drug and other benefits for patients who have nowhere else to turn.

The Illinois Primary Health Care Association represents 54 community health centers serving communities across Illinois who serve as a vital lifeline for quality, affordable health care access for more than 1.5 million people –many who are low income and are uninsured or underinsured.

Since 1992, our centers have used the federal 340B program for critical discounts on prescription drugs. A prescription that would normally be $200 costs $25 under 340B, for example. Health centers use those savings to provide their patients with life-saving medications at a more reasonable price. Additionally, 340B savings also ensure our facilities can meet our patients’ needs in other ways: We can pay for adult dental care, transportation to other medical

facilities, substance use treatment and other critical needs that simply would not exist without these funds from the drug discounts.

For people with no other options, free colonoscopies and mammograms, mobile clinics and free transportation to appointments are not a luxury that can be found elsewhere. They’re a necessity, and they happen at our clinics across the state only through the 340B program.

Today, 340B is holding on by a thread—and time is running short. In Illinois and across the country, restrictions from drug manufacturers on 340B are causing a crisis.

Health centers cover wide areas, across multiple counties. For decades, they worked with pharmacies to directly connect patients with 340B-covered drugs from convenient store locations.

Now, drug manufacturers force centers to choose one location for 340B-priced drug distribution— forcing some patients to travel far out of their way if they want those medications. For the uninsured who have many challenges in their lives, that is not an option. Their care suffers greatly.

Our members are calling for help. In a recent letter to the four legislative leaders, the governor

and other leadership in Springfield, IPHCA members outlined their concerns and warned staff layoffs and service cuts are imminent if something isn’t done soon.

“On the heels of a global pandemic that put a spotlight on the deep-seated inequities in our healthcare system, it is unconscionable to allow harm of this magnitude to Illinois’ underresourced communities to continue unchecked,” they write.

Five other states have approved, and 20 others are considering, a solution modeled in Senate Bill 3727 that would simply stop the harmful restrictions on 340B that are threatening care. We are confident it will work here if given the opportunity. In Arkansas, multiple court rulings have now upheld a similar law despite a hard legal fight against it by the drug companies.

With just a few short weeks left in the session for action, we cannot let this opportunity slip away. We call on the legislature to approve Senate Bill 3727 and assure Illinoisans we will continue to support and protect health care options that are under attack.

Ollie Idowu is president and CEO of Illinois Primary Health Care Association in Springfield.

Casten announces selections for FY2025 community project funding

Would bring more than $40 million to address suburban priorities, including $950,000 for Elmhurst

U.S. Rep. Sean Casten of the 6th Congressional District recently announced his community funding projects for fiscal year 2025, which could bring a total of $40,544,332 in federal funding to the Chicagoland community.

The 15 projects requested by Casten will improve health care education, build out solar power infrastructure, update transportation services, provide clean drinking water, and more. Casten is advocating for the inclusion of these projects as part of

New principal

Elmhurst Community Unit School District 205 Board of Education members voted unanimously during their May 14 meeting to approve Dr. Krista Rajanen as the new principal of Jackson Elementary School. She will begin her tenure on Aug. 1. Rajanen has over 14 years of experience in education, most recently as an assistant principal at Norwood Park Elementary School in Chicago. Rajanen was one of 52 applicants for the position of principal at Jackson Elementary School. Sixteen of those applicants were chosen for initial screenings. Six applicants were then selected to participate in a first round of interviews. Following second-round interviews, three applicants were chosen to take part in a third-round interview at Jackson Elementary School that included parents, board members, administrators and school staff. Rajanen received her Doctorate of Education from the University of Illinois at Chicago. She also holds a Master of Arts in Special Education and a B.A. in Social Work from Pacific Lutheran University. She has received her ESL/Bilingual Certification from Roosevelt University.

GETTING KIDS TO WEAR THEIR EYEGLASSES

When a child gets their first pair of prescription glasses, there can be a lot of resistance to wearing them. When it’s time to choose frames, make it a special event and allow the child to choose their own, giving them a sense of ownership in the process. Help them narrow their choices and let them make the final call. Once you receive the glasses, start with short periods of use, and work up to longer stretches of time. Offer praise when the child chooses to wear their glasses without a reminder. Make sure the glasses fit properly; otherwise they will be less likely to be worn. The eye care specialist can make frame adjustments if necessary. At SKOWRON EYE CARE, we’re proud to offer comprehensive eye care services for the whole family. Whether you suspect your child needs glasses or you simply want to book their first eye exam, our friendly staff can help. Call us today for more information or visit our convenient location. Our showroom is stocked with the latest and greatest trends in budget and designer eyewear. At Skowron Eye Care, our mission is your vision.

P.S. Help establish the habit of storing glasses properly in their hard case by allowing your child to choose a special place to keep their glasses when not in use.

University Health Sciences

the FY 2025 omnibus government funding package.

“After an extremely competitive community project submission process, I’m proud to advocate for funding for projects that will do so much to improve the lives of folks in the

6th Congressional District,” Casten said. “From keeping our water clean and modernizing our infrastructure and education systems to investing in clean energy projects and ensuring resilience against floods and stormwater damage, these projects will do so much for our community.”

Last year, Casten delivered $11 million in federal funding for community projects in Illinois’ 6th Congressional district, which includes parts of Elmhurst, Lombard and Villa Park.

Included in the list of 15 projects are:

Project sponsor: DuPage County Health Department, Wheaton

Amount requested: $6 million

Description: The funding would be used for solar panels and energy efficient windows in our group homes to offset the expense of utilities in these homes and would result in a reduction in expenditures in the accounting unit that supports these programs.

Project sponsor: Elmhurst University Health Sciences research equipment

Amount requested: $950,000

Project description: $950,000 for the purchase of equipment to advance cutting-edge technology research in the field of health sciences.

The equipment will create a modern skills lab where researchers can practice and demonstrate assessment and intervention skills in a realistic and convenient setting. The technological settings will mirror various

healthcare settings such as emergency rooms, hospital rooms, labor and delivery rooms, and operating theaters to fully immerse researchers in the clinical experience.

The lab and simulation spaces will have life-like mannequins and modern medical equipment, including an anatomy table and a high-tech, 3D anatomy system. This new technology will enable researchers to conduct studies that have the potential to advance the field of health sciences significantly.

Project sponsor: Salt Creek Sanitary District, Villa Park Amount requested: $9 million

Project description: This funding would be used to improve the district’s Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP) to reduce phosphorus to Salt Creek.

Project sponsor: DuPage Water Commission, Elmhurst Amount requested: $500,000

Project description: The funding would be used to carry out necessary activities for its Regional Source Water Project including electric grid stability and electric supply analysis.

Project sponsor: Village of Lombard

Amount requested: $2 million

Project description: This project includes the replacement and upgrade of the four-inch water main on the blocks of Craig, Stewart and Lombard.

The project will increase water flow to these residents improving water quality and fire flows.

SUBMITTED PHOTO Elmhurst Independent

Scenes from the United Community Concerns Association’s Taste of the Town: Dining for a Cause

The Elmhurst food and drink experience was held at the Wilder Mansion on May 16. The evening showcased food, wine, and beer tastings from 17 Elmhurst businesses plus live music. Proceeds from the event will benefit UCCA, an all-volunteer, not-for-profit organization that fights hunger by providing food, refer-rals, and services to Elmhurst District 205’s most financially disadvantaged children and their families. Save the date for the 8th Annual Taste of the Town: Dining for a Cause on May 15, 2025.

Jack Island, left, came out of retirement to support Chef Chris Buckingham from Cafe Liberty. Chris was the chef at Silverado Grill for 24 years. Cafe Liberty is a free culinary training program for veterans who are unemployed and underrepresented and interested in a career in the field of culinary. Chef Chris brings his 24 years of experience in culinary to the program at Cafe Liberty as their teacher. The Dan Gibbons Turkey Trot Foundation funds this job training program. Dan Gibbons, right, is shown bringing “fuego” (fire) to the Cafe Liberty table. Dan received the Friend of UCCA, 2024 Mary Jo Corbett Spirit of Volunteerism Award.

Pictured from left to right are: Deidre Waltz, Mary Nic Foster and

from the Illinois Community for Displaced Immigrants attended the event with her neighbors

and

Foster.

Pictured is Cindy Peterson, UCCA member and winner of the 2024 Mary Jo Corbett Spirit of Volunteerism Award.

BRENDA GARCIA PHOTOS Elmhurst Independent

Pat Motto. Pat Motto

Deidre Waltz

Mary Nic

Rita Borzym poses with friends and UCCA members: from left to right back row: Cynthia Smith-Jans, Lisa Fine, Theresa Burns, Sue Holler, Ralph Westendorf. Front row: Rita Borzym and Doug Holler.

JEAN BAKER PHOTO Elmhurst Independent

THURSDAY, MAY 23, 2024

Lake Effect band starts out the first of six nights of live music on Spring Road. Lake Effect band will fill the evening with pop and standard music from 6:30pm-8:30pm at Wild Meadows Trace on Spring Road. Bring your lawn chair or blanket and enjoy an evening of musical entertainment as the sun sets for the day!

NEXT CONCERT IS JUNE 6TH

with Grammy-Nominated Rock Goddess from Elmhurst, Cathy Richardson!!

For more information on future concerts go to:

* Please note consuming alcoholic beverages in the park is not permitted per Elmhurst Park District policy. *

JUNE 3-7

Bethel Assembly 10am-2:30pm

www.bethelelmhurst.org

DuPAGE DESTINATIONS

Dining & Entertainment Guide to the Western Suburbs

Can’t-miss events in and around DuPage County

Editor’s note: If you have information on an event in DuPage County taking place that you would like us to consider listing here, please email that information to: news1@rvpublishing.com

Ongoing

Train Saturdays

DuPage County Historical Museum

Wheaton

The DuPage Society of Model Engineers operates the model railroad at the museum, 102 E. Wesley St., on the third and fifth Saturday of the month. The layout covers more than 2,000 feet of track and highlights some of DuPage County’s landmarks in a landscape full of surprises. Your family will love watching the trains run. See if you can spot Superman and the Batmobile. For more information, visit: https://dupagemuseum.org/calendar/category/ train-saturdays

North Suburban Carvers meetings

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

Now through May 31

free. For more information, visit: https://dupagemuseum.org/collections-exhibits

Now through Aug. 13

Summer Concert Series

Downers Grove

Recurring weekly, the free concerts are held Tuesday evenings at Fishel Park, 1036 Curtiss St., and will feature rock, country, blues, and oldies. Doors open and food and beverage sales begin at 6 p.m. The music takes place between 7 and 8:30 p.m. Bring your lawn chairs or blankets.

Now through Aug. 31

Cicadas on Parade

Glen Ellyn

Recurring daily throughout downtown Glen Ellyn through Aug.31, embrace the summer of the cicadas and visit downtown Glen Ellyn to see 25 hand-painted cicada art sculptures. These 18-inch cicada sculptures are painted via local artist and storefront owners which will be placed in flowerpots, trees and windows throughout the downtown. For more information, visit: https://downtownglenellyn.com/cicadas-on-parade

Monday, May 27

Memorial Day parades and ceremonies

Built to Last: Celebrating DuPage County’s historical architecture exhibit

Wheaton

Presented by the DuPage County Historical Museum, 102 E. Wesley St., and recurring weekly Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday Friday, Saturday and Sunday, the exhibit focuses on the historical architecture of DuPage County. Through this exhibit you can explore the unique architectural styles expressed over the decades and how they influenced DuPage. The array of buildings within the area now sits in harmony with their modern-day counterparts as the historic buildings continue to be preserved and celebrated. While most of these buildings are used for a new purpose, their unique designs have remained the same since the day they were erected. Admission:

Addison—The Community March steps off at 9:30 a.m., proceeds from Indian Trail to St. Paul Cemetery, led by Medinah Shriners Veterans Unit. Everyone is welcome to participate in 1.5-mile round trip; transportation available for those who cannot walk. VFW ceremony takes place at Veterans Circle at 11 a.m. Bring a lawn chair. In case of rain, the ceremony will be in Village Hall rotunda.

Bensenville—See Wood Dale Darien—Presented by the Darien Monuments and Ceremonies Commission, the parade begins at 10 a.m. at Goodwives Shopping Center, proceeding toward the Spring Grove Veterans Cemetery to lay commemorative wreaths around the Karl Lang flagpole during a ceremony honoring those who gave their lives in battle.

Downers Grove— American Legion Post 80 hosts its annual parade, kicking off at 10:45 a.m. at Burlington Avenue and Main Street. The parade will travel south on Main to Grove Street, ending at Fishel Park. A Memorial Day Ceremony will begin in the park at 11 a.m.

Elmhurst—The Elmhurst Chamber of Commerce & Industry, in cooperation with the City of Elmhurst and Elmhurst veterans organizations, will host the 106th Elmhurst Memorial Day parade, which steps off at 9:30 a.m. in downtown Elmhurst with nearly 70 entries.

• Events

Hinsdale—The Village of Hinsdale, supporting the Hinsdale American Legion Post 250, will host a Memorial Day procession. The procession begins at 10 a.m. from 3rd Street by HMS. It will head west to Washington and north on Washington to Memorial Hall and conclude with a ceremony.

Lombard—The Village of Lombard will hold its annual Memorial Day Ceremony on at 10 a.m. at the Sunken Garden in Common Park, located just east of the Grace Street and Maple Street intersection, to honor and remember the men and women who died while serving in the U.S. military.

Lisle—The Lisle Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Ross Bishop Memorial Post #5696 presents the Lisle Memorial Day Parade. The parade will begin at 10 a.m. at Lisle Junior High School and proceed north on Main Street, East on Burlington Avenue, ending at the Lisle Veterans Memorial.

Naperville—The Naperville Memorial Day Parade kicks off at 10:30 a.m. The route will be starting at Centennial Beach, east to Jackson to North on Main, East on Benton across Washington, ending at Court Place.

Wheaton—The 2024 Memorial Day Parade, hosted by American Legion Post 76, will take place starting at 10 a.m. The parade will begin at Memorial Park, proceeding west on Wesley Street, turning south on West Street, and ending at the Wheaton Cemetery.

Wood Dale—The Bensenville Park District will be participating in the Wood Dale Memorial Day Parade steps off at 11 a.m. at Elizabeth Drive between Addison and Wood Dale Road. The parade ends at 12:30 p.m. A Memorial service will be held at Veterans Memorial Park following the parade to honor our service men and women.

Villa Park—The VFW Post 2801

Memorial Day service will take place at 11 a.m. at Cortesi Veterans Memorial Park. In case of inclement weather, the service will be held indoors at the Villa Park VFW.

Thursday, May 30- Sunday, June 2

Cream of Wheaton

Wheaton

Starting at 4 p.m. each day and presented by the Wheaton Park District at Memorial Park, downtown Wheaton, enjoy four days of fun including live entertainment, food, a beer garden, carnival rides, kids activities, a business expo and an arts and crafts fair. Admission: Free. For more information, visit: https:// wheatonparkdistrict.com/events/ cream-of-wheaton

Saturday, June 1

Cosley Zoo Run for the Animals 5K/10K, Kids’ 1/2-mile race

Wheaton

Starting at 7 a.m. presented by Cosley Zoo at Memorial Park, 208 W. Union Ave., get ready to lace up

your running shoes for the Cosley Foundation’s 42nd annual Cosley Zoo Run for the Animals. Join more than 1,700 runners for the 5K/10K and Kids ½-mile race. All participants receive a long-sleeve T-shirt, post-race refreshments, a finisher medal and entertainment. For entry and more information, visit: https:// wheatonparkdistrict.com/events/cosley-zoo-run-for-the-animals

Sunday, June 2

Downtown Naperville Summer Wine Walk

Presented by the Downtown Na-

perville Alliance from noon to 5 p.m., it’s time for the Downtown Naperville Summer Wine Walk. Stroll through downtown Naperville’s favorite stops while sampling 12 varieties of wine and small bites. A limited number of tickets are available.

Questions? Email: napwinewalk@ gmail.com. The event is non-refundable. Tickets are $50 per person and transferable to other attendees.

For more information, visit: https://downtownnapeville.com/ events/downtown-naperville-summer-wine-walk.

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!

CLUES ACROSS

1. Lunatic

7. Doctor of Education

10. Able to make amends

12. Tight-knit group

13. Gland

14. Intestinal pouches

15. Fungal spores

16. Erstwhile

17. Engine additive

18. Nasal mucus

19. Fit a horse with footwear

21. Consumed

22. Settle

27. Larry and Curly’s pal

28. Basketball’s GOAT

33. Exclamation of surprise

34. Made tight

36. Before

37. Actor Nicolas

38. Not hot

39. Talk

40. Pledge

41. Abandon a mission

44. Trims by cutting

45. Aspects of one’s character

48. Boxing GOAT’s former surname

49. Holy places

50. Body art (slang)

51. Attributes

CLUES DOWN

1. How one feels

2. American Nat’l Standards Institute

3. Information

4. Licensed for Wall Street

5. Keyboard key 6. Born of 7. Choose to represent

8. Small European freshwater fish

9. Everyone has their own 10. Line from the center of a polygon

11. Lebanese city

12. Type of watercraft

14. A way to twist

17. Soviet Socialist Republic

18. Greek island

20. Medical practitioner

23. __ DeGaulle, French President

24. Partner to “oohed”

25. Atomic #52

26. Santa’s helper

29. Rapper __ Rule

30. Month

31. Word formed by rearranging letters

BRANCH CEMETERY

DRAFT

DUTY

ENLIST

OBSERVED

PLATOON

REMEMBER RESPECT

SACRIFICE SERVICE

SOLDIER

SOMBER THANKS TOUR VETERAN

32. Nullifies

35. Young woman ready to enter society

36. Unemployment

38. Weight unit

40. Formal party

41. Computer language

42. Residue formula in math

43. Duty or responsibility

44. Part of (abbr.)

45. Time zone

46. Body part

47. Nucleic acid

Memory care support group meetings start June 5

A support group for those caring for someone with Alzheimer’s disease or dementia will begin on Wednesday, June 5.

The meetings are free and are for anyone who lives in the Elmhurst/Villa Park/Lombard area.

The meetings will provide support, connection and understanding for caregivers and families and let them know they are not alone.

The meetings will take place on the first Wednesday of each month, from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m.

Meetings at Adult Christian Care (Epiphany Evangelical Lutheran Church, 314 W. Vallette Street, Elmhurst) will take place on June 5, August 7, Oct. 2 and Dec. 4.

Meetings at St. Paul Lutheran Church (545 S. Ardmore Avenue, Villa Park) will take place on July 3, Sept. 4 and Nov. 6. Space is limited.

Call or text Jamie at 312-543-5158 for more information.

Worship Services Directory

Sunday Worship at 9:45 AM Come worship with us!

300 East Belden Avenue, Elmhurst, IL 60126 www.ODMFellowship.Org 452638

St. Timothy Evangelical Lutheran Church

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

Lent and Easter Services at 7 p.m.

Sunday Worship at 10:15 am

Weekend Masses:

Saturday: 4 PM (Vigil)

Sunday: 7:30, 9:30 & 11:30 AM and 6 PM

Daily Masses:

Monday—Friday: 6:15 and 8:15 AM

Sunday School & Bible Study 9 am

“The Crucial Hours”

Second Lenten Service March 9, 2022

Ladies Bible Fellowship Mondays at 6:30 pm

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

Saturday, May 25 Game Night at 4 pm

Third Lenten Service March 16, 2022

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

Everyone is Welcome! All services are live streamed. Watch on our website or on Facebook. sainttimothy.org

Fourth Lenten Service March 23, 2022

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

Teacher honored

Fifth Lenten Service March 30, 2022

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

Sixth Lenten Service April 6, 2022

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

Confessions: Saturday: 3�3:45PM Sunday: 5�5:45 PM

Kathryn Wheeler, a first-grade teacher at Edison Elementary School, received the Elmhurst area American Association of University Women (AAUW) Returning Scholar Award at the branch’s 85th anniversary celebration at River Forest Country Club on May 11. Wheeler is a lifelong Elmhurst resident who attended District 205 schools. She was nominated for the York High School Citizenship Award during three of her four years as a student at York. In 2019, she graduated from Elmhurst College (now Elmhurst University) with a degree in elementary education. Wheeler was a three-year letter winner for Elmhurst’s women’s tennis team. During her senior year as a Bluejay, she was named the Elmhurst College Female Scholar Athlete of the Year. Wheeler is currently pursuing a graduate degree in reading education at Concordia University Chicago.

SUBMITTED PHOTO Elmhurst Independent

Obituaries

ANTHONY N. POPE

Anthony N. Pope peacefully passed away May 17, 2024 at home, surrounded by family. He was born April 27, 1942 in Chicago, to the late Joseph and Gertrude Pope. Anthony was a resident, member and businessman in Elmhurst for over 50 years. For the latter, holding a J.D., CPA and a Masters in Taxation.

Beloved husband of 59 years to Donna M. Pope (nee Beard); loving father to Elizabeth (Todd) Mezera, Matthew (Anita) Pope, Tracy Kramer, Jennifer (David) Dunlap, Cathy (Brett) Conway and Kristen (Kevin) Coleman; amazing grandfather and mentor to Lauren and Bryan (Rachel) Mezera; Zachary (Patrick), Luke (Bridget), and Phoebe Pope, Michael and Paul Kamieniak; Livia, Henry and Griffin Kramer; Courtney and Jacob Dunlap; Cate and Christopher Conway; and Tony, Kevin and Molly Coleman; cherished great grandfather to Riley Francis Pope; dear brother to Carmella (Mike) Halicke and Louise (the late John) O’Brien. Further survived by nieces, nephews and extended family and friends.

Anthony, or Tony, to his friends,

loved spending time with Donna, his kids, grandkids, and the entire family. He would never pass up a chess game with a grandkid, and in family gatherings, he could always be seen huddling with one of his children to talk about their lives. SummerJosephs in Grand Beach were a family affair and Anthony enjoyed seeing everyone visit and be in the same house together. He was always engaged as a family man, whether it was sponsoring or volunteering for his children’s many sports, driving the golf cart in the 4th of July parade or holding court by the pool in Grand Beach. He will be greatly missed but leaves behind family and friends forever grateful for the time they had with him.

A visitation will be held from 4 –7 p.m. on Monday, May 27, 2024 at Elmhurst Community Funeral Home – THE AHLGRIM CHAPEL, 567 South Spring Road, Elmhurst. Mass of Christian Burial at 9:30 a.m. on Tuesday, May 28, 2024 at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, 134 Arthur Street, Elmhurst.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Red Lake Nation, 15484 Migizi Drive, P.O. Box 574, Red Lake, MN 56671, www.redlakenation.org.

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

DONALD Z. ALEXANDER

Donald Z. Alexander (Don), son of the late Alexander Zivich and Victoria Havran was born on September 26, 1936, in East Chicago, Indiana where he lived until he graduated from Roosevelt High School. Don enjoyed summers at the family lake house with many first cousins, including Bernardine “Bunny” Baum, and the late Pete Baum.

Don attended Indiana University where he earned a degree in business management and was a proud member of the Alpha Tau Omega Fraternity, acquiring the nickname “DAZ”. Don loved acting and performed in the Jordan River Review. Following graduation in 1958, Don joined the U.S. Navy serving our country in the Vietnam War. During his time in the Navy, Don was aboard the ships the USS Toledo, USS Fort Marion and the USS Ponchatoula, and ultimately achieved the rank of Lieutenant.

In December 1962, Don met Joan Velis (Jody) and her five-year-old son Tom and asked her to marry him the day he met her. She made him wait one year before she said yes, and they were married on December 21, 1963, at Assumption Greek Orthodox Church in Chicago. Don always bragged that he got a “two-for” – a wife and a son all at once.

While stationed in Honolulu, Hawaii, Don and Jody were blessed with a daughter, Vanessa, in 1965. Don and Jody were among a small group of founders of the first Orthodox church on Oahu. Upon Don’s honorable discharge in 1968, the

family moved to the mainland, took the surname “Alexander”, and built a home in Elmhurst, where Don lived until he fell asleep in the Lord just four months after Jody, his bride of 60 years. In this life, Don was always late; Jody waited for him all the time, but four months was the longest.

Out of the Navy, Don was hired as a salesman for IBM. Year after year he was recognized for selling the most Correcting Selectric typewriters, earning the IBM Hundred Percent Club award. In 1976, Don earned an MBA from Roosevelt University before leaving IBM to become a stockbroker and financial advisor. In 1984, Don founded Don Alexander Investments, Inc. and provided personal service to his clients until he retired at the end of 2016. His firm earned the prestigious recognition of being named a Five Star Wealth Manager.

In 1991, Tom married Stacey Smid; and in 1996, Vanessa married Jim Clohessy. The family continued to grow when Don became a pappou with the birth of his grandson, James (who called him “Poo”), and granddaughter, Joanna. Don loved to spend time with family, and his favorite thing to do was swim in his pool with his grandchildren. He taught them to swim and delighted in competing in swimming races with them. The prize was an olive from his vodka martini!

Don was a member and past president of the Elmhurst Rotary Club and a Paul Harris Fellow. He was a member of the American Legion and Veterans of Foreign Wars, and proudly wore his Vietnam Veteran cap every day, everywhere, and his American flag pin on his lapel.

Don was a founding board member

and secretary of the Elmhurst Art Museum for nearly 20 years and served as an Elmhurst Fire and Police Commissioner.

Don was a proud second-generation Hoosier and was a lifetime member of the Indiana University Alumni Association. Don was delighted when Vanessa graduated from IU and was ecstatic when his granddaughter Joanna told him in January that she was accepted to IU and would be attending in the fall.

Having been baptized and raised in a devout Catholic home, Don embraced the Orthodox faith and was chrismated at Holy Apostles Greek Orthodox Church by Father William Chiganos, of blessed memory. Don and Joan were members of the couples ministry, Synaxis, and were blessed to take two pilgrimages to the Holy Land. It was a great honor for Don to be a godfather, when Tom’s best friend and Don’s vice president, Don Singleton was chrismated in the Orthodox faith in 1995. Don and Don enjoyed breakfast weekly to the very end.

Don and Jody suffered the tragic loss of their son, Tom, in 2019.

Don is survived by his daughter Vanessa Clohessy (Jim), his grandchildren James and Joanna Clohessy, his daughter-in-law Stacey, his sisterin-law Esther Velis, his godson Don Singleton, and many loving cousins. Visitation was on Wednesday, May 22, followed by the funeral service at Holy Apostles Greek Orthodox Church, 2501 S. Wolf Rd., Westchester, IL. Interment at Chapel Hill Gardens West Cemetery, Oakbrook Terrace, IL. For info. Elmhurst Community Funeral Home – THE AHLGRIM CHAPEL (630) 834-3515 or www.ElmhurstFH.com.

Sport S

York girls badminton team finishes fourth at state Seniors White and Glosner take fourth in doubles

By Mike Miazga CORRESPONDENT

The York girls badminton team dominated at the recent IHSA state finals held at DeKalb High School. The Dukes finished fourth in the state, their highest finish there since 1982. York took 14th in the state in 2021, ninth in 2022 and seventh last season. “Mental toughness and the strong desire to win is what catapulted us to a fourth-place finish,” York coach Gena Fite said.

Fite noted out the 22 matches York players had at state, 14 were victories and six went to the third game of which the Dukes won four of them. “Badminton is an individual sport, but each athlete fought for one another and ultimately fought for York pride,” Fite added.

The senior doubles team of Lindsey White and Ella Glosner finished fourth in the state with a 4-2 record. White and Glosner won their firstround match against Andrew High School 21-9, 21-9 and then won their second-round match 21-8, 21-6 over Downers Grove South. They defeated Glenbrook North 21-13, 2220 in the third round and then won their quarterfinal match 21-9, 21-18 against Stevenson. White and Glosner lost to Neuqua Valley 21-4, 21-12 in the semifinals and dropped an 1121, 21-10, 21-19 match to Fremd in the third-place match.

Mia Koenigsberger finished in the top eight of the singles division after a remarkable run through the back draw. Koenigsberger lost 2117, 21-11 to Stevenson in the first round before rattling off five wins in a row in the back draw. She downed Hinsdale Central 21-11, 21-10 in the first round of the consolation bracket, scored a 21-13, 21-5 win over Joliet Central in the second round and downed Bolingbrook 21-11, 21-16 in the third round. Koenigsberger defeated Lockport 22-20, 21-19 in the fourth round and Hoffman Estates

SUBMITTED PHOTOS Elmhurst Independent

York seniors Linsdsey White (left) and Ella Glosner took fourth at the recent IHSA girls badminton state doubles tournament at DeKalb High School. White and Glosner went 4-2 at state and prior to that won a doubles sectional title and took second at No. 1 doubles in the West Suburban Conference Silver Division.

21-15, 12-21, 21-17 in the fifth round before losing to Stevenson 21-5, 21-6 in the consolation quarterfinals. She finished 5-2 in the tournament.

Singles teammate Delaney Butterly finished in the top 24 in the state with a 3-2 mark. She won her firstround match 19-21, 22-20, 21-13 over Naperville Central and then lost 21-7, 21-12 to Fremd in the second round. Butterly, a senior, defeated Lake Forest 21-17, 21-14 in the second round of the consolation bracket and defeated Reavis 21-9, 23-21 in the third round before losing 2114, 21-12 to Naperville Central in the fourth round of the consolation bracket.

The York doubles team of Cate Fennell and Caroline Fischer also

Younglove throws no-hitter,

went 3-2 and finished in the top 16 in the state in the doubles division.

Fennell and Fischer defeated Hoffman Estates 22-20, 21-19 in the first round and Vernon Hills 11-21, 2118, 22-20 in the second round before losing to Stevenson 21-8, 21-4 in the third round.

Seniors Fennell and Fischer defeated Evanston 21-19, 7-21, 21-15 before losing to Glenbrook North 21-11, 18-21, 21-7 in the fifth round of the consolation bracket. “Mental toughness is your ability to be resilient and maintain confidence in the face of pressure situations, regardless of the circumstances,” York assistant coach John Constable said of the team’s performance in DeKalb.

The fourth-place state finish

The York girls badminton team took fourth at the recent IHSA state finals meet held at DeKalb High School. It was York’s highest finish at state since 1982. The York senior doubles team of Lindsey White and Ella Glosner took fourth in the state, while junior Mia Koenigsberger earned a top-eight finish in the singles tournament after an impressive run in the back draw. The York doubles team of seniors Caroline FIscher and Cate Fennell finished in the top 16 in the doubles tournament, while senior Delaney Butterly finished in the top 24 in the singles division.

capped a tremendous season for York, which won a sectional title, finished second in the West Suburban Conference Silver Division, won three invite titles, took second in another and finished the year with a 13-4 mark in dual meets. White leaves York with an overall varsity doubles record of 114-21 and a 43-12 mark in singles, plus a

See BADMINTON, Page 19

strikes out 16 in Timothy

Christian

softball

win

Trojans defeat Chicago Horizon Science for a Class 2A regional title

By Mike Miazga CORRESPONDENT

Timothy Christian senior softball pitcher Kaleigh Sue Younglove had an outing for the ages recently. Younglove threw a seven-inning no-hitter and struck out 16 in Timothy Christian’s 7-0 non-conference win against Walther Christian Academy on senior day at the Elmhurst-based school. Younglove walked three and hit two batters, facing five bat-

ters over the minimum in her no-hit gem. Her 16 strikeouts advanced her strikeout total for the season to 135 (as of the Walther game).

Timothy supported Younglove’s pitching efforts via Grace Hoffman’s two hits (including a triple) and Chloe Wetterquist’s triple. Lauren Kottke, Lucy Melzer, Violet Stanek and Kierstyn Herrmann each had a single. Timothy also took full advantage of seven walks, a hit batter

and four Walther miscues. The win against Walther moved Timothy to 12-5.

The Trojans then downed Trinity 6-5 to close out the regular season (Sophia Mook had a double in that contest) before defeating Chicago Horizon Science Academy McKinley Park 12-0 to win the Class 2A Timothy Christian regional title. Timothy advanced directly to the regional championship game after

a previous forfeit by Chicago EPIC Academy Charter.

It was Timothy’s first softball regional title since the 2010 Bruce Berens-coached team and the fifth in program history. Nancy Wieringa’s teams won regional titles in 2006, 2207 and 2008.

Timothy, a No. 1 sub-sectional seed, played earlier this week in the Class 2A IC Catholic Prep sectional against Chicago Latin School, a No.

7 sub-sectional seed. If the Trojans won that game they will play Friday at 4:30 p.m. at Plunkett Athletic Complex in Elmhurst against fellow No. 1 sub-sectional seed IC Catholic Prep or No. 3 seed Lisle for the sectional championship and a berth in the Class 2A Lisle Benedictine University super-sectional on Memorial Day where the winner advances to the state semifinals in East Peoria. See photo on page 20.

York girls track team enjoys banner weekend at Class 3A state finals

Dukes log four top-six finishes in Charleston; York also wins sectional title

By Mike Miazga CORRESPONDENT

The York girls track team capped a great spring season by finishing 14th at the recent Class 3A state finals meet held at O’Brien Stadium on the campus of Eastern Illinois University in Charleston. York finished with 20 points. The Dukes were one point shy of 12th and 3.5 points shy of a team top-10 finish.

York logged four top-six finishes at the state meet, highlighted by pole vaulter Lainey Paul breaking her own school record and finishing fourth with a mark of 12-1 1/2. Paul finished 10th in the preliminaries at 11-1 3/4. Paul also took 13th in the 200 with a time of 24.93. Senior Anna McGrail was sixth in the 3,200 run with a time of 10:54.20.

York also had major success with a pair of relays. The York 400 relay took fifth in the state with a time of 47.51. That team featured Paul, Morgan Navarre, Norah Peiffle and Jillian Booth. The Dukes ran 47.93 in the prelims. The Dukes’ 3,200 relay also took fifth with Sophia Galiano Sanchez, Margaret Owens, Katherine Klimek and Scarlett Moriarty running 9:13.69.

Navarre finished 10th in the 400 run with a time of 57.44 in the preliminaries. Galiano-Sanchez was 11th in the 800 run with a time of 2:19.52. She was sixth in the preliminary round with a time of 2:13.03. Owens took 21st in the 1,600 with a time of 5:14.52, while Klimek was 25th in 5:21.66. Junior Sofia Stoddard took 13th in the 3,200 with a time of 11:08.82.

The Dukes took 16th in the state in the 800 relay with a time of 1:42.44. That group included Peiffle, Mia

York’s Lainey Paul takes off at the recent Oregon Relays, leading her 800 relay team to a fifth-place finish there. This past weekend, Paul finished fourth in the pole vault at the Class 3A state finals meet at Eastern Illinois University. Paul broke her own school record with a mark of 12-1 1/2. Paul also was the leadoff runner on the Dukes’ 400 relay that took fifth in the state. She ran that race with teammates Morgan Navarre, Norah Peiffle and Jillian Booth.

Hanger, Margaret Maston and Booth.

York’s 1,600 relay team was 29th with a time of 4:08.49 with Hanger, Maston, Julia Weseloh and Adell Weseloh. Leila Arzon tied for 20th in the high jump with a mark of 5-1.

Earlier, York trampled the opposition in winning the Class 3A Lake Park sectional title in Roselle.

York finished with 124 points. Oak Park-River Forest was a mile away in second place with 83 points.

Libby Donaldson took fifth in the 100 with a time of 12.90, while Abigail Pointon was 14th at 13.38. Paul won the 200 with a time of 25.06 and

Navarre made York a double-point scorer in the event by finishing third at 25.96. Navarre won the 400 with a time of 57.60, while Adell Weseloh was 10th at 1:01.96. Galiano-Sanchez took second in the 800 with a time of 2:16.75, while Gianna Hill was sixth in the 800 at 2:21.37. Klimek won the 1,600 with a time of 5:08.39 and teammate Owens was right behind her in second place at 5:08.56. McGrail won the 3,200 in 10:56.93, while Stoddard was third at 11:10.41. Myelle Marshall took sixth in the 100 hurdles at 15.99, while Natalie Koleno was 23rd in 19.32. Clara Lawrence

Sectional champion

took 14th in the 300 hurdles with a time of 51.72, while Luciana Lisanti was 20th in 53.66.

York won the 400 relay in 47.83 with Paul, Navarre, Peiffle and Booth running 47.83. York was second in the 800 relay at 1:43.19 with Peiffle, Hanger, Maston and Booth. In the 1,600 relay, York was fourth at 4:04.22 with Hanger, Maston, Julia Wesloh and Galiano-Sanchez. The Dukes took second in the 3,200 relay with a time of 9:26.87 with Klimek, Owens, Moriarty and Hill. Allison Poku was 26th in the shot put for York with a mark of 24-11

Senior Anthony Arnieri helped the York boys tennis team win the championship at the IHSA Class 2A sectional at Willowbrook High School, which took place on Friday and Saturday. Arnieri won the sectional’s singles title. He is pictured during his 6-4, 6-3 victory over Glenbard East sophomore Finn Talbot in Saturday’s singles final at the sectional in Villa Park. Arnieri won four straight matches at the sectional without losing a set. York senior Alex Flores earned a fourth-place finish in the sectional’s singles competition. York’s tandem of juniors Brennen Maxeiner and Nate Yu won the sectional’s doubles title. The Dukes’ doubles duo of sophomores Jason DeMott and Kieran Goldstein earned a third-place finish. York won the championship plaque at the nine-team Willowbrook Sectional with its team total of 33 points. Wheaton North finished second in the sectional’s team standings with 20 points, while Glenbard West placed third with 14 points. York’s entire sectional lineup—two singles players and two doubles teams—qualified for this week’s IHSA Class 2A state meet. The top four singles players and the top four doubles teams from each of the state’s 16 Class 2A sectionals advanced to the state meet, which will take place at multiple sites in Chicago’s northwest suburbs.

3/4. Madeleine Tresnak was 29th at 24-1. Tresnak was 21st in the discus at 82-8. Arzon was fourth in the high jump at 5-1 3/4. Morgan Brunner tied for 10th at 4-9 3/4. Paul was second in the pole vault with a mark of 3.35 meters. Mia Carone was seventh at 2.97 meters. Charlotte Hopkins was 16th in the long jump at 14-11 1/4, while Samantha Tilson was 24th at 12-5 3/4. Marshall was 10th in the triple jump at 34-8 1/4, while Hopkins was 18th at 30-7 1/2.

York also finished second as a team at the West Suburban Conference Silver Division meet.

• Badminton

(Continued from page 18)

14-4 record in the state tournament. Glosner leaves with an 87-31 varsity doubles mark and a 24-4 singles record.

She went 8-5 during her three state trips. Fennell finished with an 8412 doubles varsity record and a 7-5 mark in three state appearances, while Fischer finished 35-9 in her doubles career at York. Butterly leaves York with a 44-19 singles record and a third place WSC Silver finish at No. 1 singles this spring to her credit, as well as a second-place sectional finish. Koenigsberger went 36-7 this season in singles matches and is 64-11 in her career.

York had 10 all-WSC selections this spring in Glosner, White, Fischer, Fennell, Butterly, Koenigsberger, junior Adriana Kolenda, junior Maddie Mauck, senior Clare Hewitt and senior Courtney Yang.

Academic all-conference selections for York include Glosner, White, Fischer, Fennell, Butterly, Hewitt, Yang and senior Diya Parikh. At state, York finished with 12 points. Fremd from Palatine won the team state title with 18.5 points. Stevenson is second with 18 points and Neuqua Valley was third with 17 points.

SUBMITTED PHOTO Elmhurst Independent

CHRIS FOX PHOTO Rock Valley Publishing

Girls state track championships

Above: York senior Elaine Paul starts the 400-meter relay at the Illinois High School Association Class 3A State Championships at Eastern Illinois University’s O’Brien Field in Charleston. Paul teamed with three Lady Duke underclassmen to run a time of 47.51 seconds. They were fifth overall and less than one second from the winning time of Huntley, who finished with a state championship run in :46.60.

Right: Ella Potoshnick, a Timothy Christian sophomore, runs in the first heat of the 3,200-meter run on Saturday morning. The sophomore finished 28th overall, running the eight-lap race in 12 minutes, 40.30 seconds. The three-class, three-day track state championships, hosted by the Illinois High School Association, were held once again at Eastern Illinois University’s O’Brien Field in Charleston. Timothy Christian completed in Class 1A.

Third from left: ICCP distance runner Grace Gildea prepares to round the corner in the 3,200-meter run on Saturday morning. The Lady Knight sophomore finished

the IHSA Class 1A state championship race in 13 minutes, 12.28 seconds, which was good for 33rd overall.

U12 baseball action

Far right: York senior Katherine Klimek (#3365) runs the third leg of the 3,200-meter relay during the Illinois High School Association Class 3A State Championships on Saturday. York finished fifth in 9 minutes, 13.69 seconds. They finished fifth overall and were one of three West Suburban Conference-Silver Division Teams to finish in the top five in the 3,200-meter relay.

Class 2A regional champions

CHRIS FOX PHOTO Elmhurst Independent

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

The Timothy Christian softball team defeated Chicago Horizon Science

to win the Class 2A

Christian regional championship. It was Timothy’s first regional title since 2010. Earlier, senior pitcher Kaleigh Sue Younglove threw a no-hitter and struck out 16 batters in the Trojans’ 7-0 non-conference victory over Walther Christian. The Trojans are playing in the Class 2A IC Catholic Prep

DANIEL L. CHAMNESS PHOTOS Elmhurst Independent

White and Glosner recently took fourth at the IHSA state finals meet at DeKalb High School. White and Glosner, who also won a sectional title together, went 4-2 in the state doubles tournament. White leaves York with a doubles record of 114-21 and a 14-4 mark at the state finals, while Glosner finished 87-31 in doubles and 8-5 in three state finals trips.

Scenes from the Spring Road Pet Parade 2024

First prize

This boy and girl display the trophy they received when their dog won first place for the Best Pet Trick.

Working for peanuts

Members of York High School’s National Honors Society ran the Peanut Butter Buster Contest for dogs at the Pet Parade. The pup that licks the spoon clean the fastest wins! They also handed out “puppuccinos,” small cups of whipped cream for the dogs to enjoy. (From left): Quinn Tolman, Evie Morton, Elizabeth Pickens, and Anabela Vazquez.

JULISSA GARCIA LOPEZ Elmhurst Independent A rare bird …

One of the more distinctive entries on Saturday, May 18, was this beautiful white bird, curling its feathers and looking around as its handler parades along Spring Road.

Cooling off

Violet De La Cruz and Hope Weech get splashed as dogs cool off at the Spring Road Pet Parade on Saturday, May 18. Violet is the granddaughter of Eric Weech, the current president of the Spring Road Business Association and owner of Alan Energy Services on Spring Road.

Classifieds

AL’S PAINTING SERVICE

Burial Needs

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.

Campers and RVs

1994 WINNEBAGO WARRIER 22’ V8 454 engine, 97,200 miles. Newer tires, new battery, new sub floor and flooring. Rooftop A/C works great. Rust free, runs good and ready for travel! Some updates have been done to the interior, but still needs some minor finishing. Asking $11,500. Located near Rockford. Call 815-520-0997.

Storage Rentals

BUILDING FOR RENT IN VILLA PARK

205 W. ST. CHARLES RD. 7500 sq. ft. building for storage.

Large garage doors, gated security cameras, half the building is heated. $4,500 a month. Call Don Murphy @ 630-863-6800

18. This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. To complain of discrimination call HUD toll-free at 1-900669-9777. The toll-free tele phone number for the hearing impaired is 1-800-927-9275. EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY

Looking to build your dream home, but no idea where to begin?

Want to add 2 bedrooms and a bath to your home and not sure how to finance the addition?

Community Bank of Elmhurst:

The Construction Financing Experts!

Get all your questions answered:

• Where do we start? The Architect? The Builder? Our Bank? The Realtor?

• How long does the process take? Will we need to live elsewhere while our addition is built?

• How do we know what it will cost? Can we afford the project?

• How does construction financing work? What process does my Bank use to pay my contractors?

• How do I ensure subcontractors are paid and my property won’t end up with a lien through no fault of my own?