These juniors and seniors make up the Elmhurst Student Philanthropy Council, shown here at their Capstone Ceremony on Wednesday, June 14. Pictured are (from left): Henry Schueler, Amy DeWitte, Enya Gildea, Katelyn Natale, Zoe McMillen, Kelsey McDonough, Jenny Fromelt, Ben Leischner, Matthew Karsten,
INDEPENDENT
At the regular meeting of the Elmhurst Community Unit School District 205 Board on Tuesday,
June 13, four people spoke during public forum in support of the district including the fiction book “American Street” in the English curriculum for York High School
freshmen.
In recent meetings, some district residents have urged the board to remove the book from the curriculum. A few of those residents have
read explicit passages from the book during board meetings.
Later in the meeting, the board voted unanimously—6-0—to adopt proposed instructional materials
for the 2023-24 school year. Those materials included excerpts from “American Street” and the novel “The House on Mango Street” for York freshmen.
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The Elmhurst Pride Collective (EPC) began in 2019 and has been growing ever since.
This year, local artists have volunteered with EPC to paint murals on the windows of businesses around town. The businesses who want a
mural can make a donation to the EPC organization to get their windows painted. The artists and the business owners come together and agree on a design and then the mural is painted.
This year Sherwin Williams donat-
ed the paint and the tools that were used. Some of the artists signed the murals.
The windows at Judith B Salon at 263 No. York were painted by young high school artists Delilah Kamins and Eva Aukst. Alan Energy Services
at 510 Spring Rd. had their windows decorated by EPC volunteers as well.
Mother and daughter duo artists created a mural at The Gaming Goat, 160 No. York. Judith Barrientos, the mother, painted the dragon while
daughter Delilah Kamins contributed the knight and gameboard.
The windows of The Vape Bar at 261 N. York St. were painted by the artist Sonya Jae Fidele, one of the EPC volunteers who took part in the Pride Month murals around town. For more information, visit elmhurstpridecollective.com.
Artist Sonya Jae Fidele puts the final touches on a window at The Vape Room at 261 No. York St., celebrating June as Pride Month in Elmhurst, as declared by Mayor Scott Levin at a recent City Council meeting. Painting murals on the windows of stores in downtown is a project of the Elmhurst Pride Collective (EPC). See more photos inside.
The City of Elmhurst has announced the launch of the new Explore Elmhurst logo as part of its ongoing effort to strengthen the Explore Elmhurst brand. The City manages the Explore Elmhurst marketing campaign as part of its visitor and tourism initiatives. The campaign has proven to be successful by providing an outlet for residents and visitors to discover what there is to do and see in Elmhurst. The campaign includes a website, social media pages, and the City’s Explore Elmhurst trolley program.
“Our marketing efforts have evolved since we last launched the Explore Elmhurst logo in 2015, and it was important for us to refresh it,” said City Manager Jim Grabowski. “We’ve altered the branding to reflect the community’s overarching identity, and to redefine the growth and future of our Explore Elmhurst marketing plans.”
Along with announcing its new brand logo, the City is in the process of redesigning the website ExploreElmhurst.com, expected to launch in September 2023.
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On Monday June 5, Mayor Scott Levin began the City Council meeting with a formal proclamation declaring the month of June 2023 as “LGBTQ+ Pride Month in Elmhurst.” Several members of the City Council proudly wore Pride flag enamel pins in support of the proclamation.
“Two years ago, Mayor Levin
presented Elmhurst’s first ever Pride Proclamation during an event at Wilder Park,” said Judith Barrientos, Elmhurst Pride Collective Board member.
“This year, Pride was officially recognized at the start of a City Council meeting, alongside members of the full council, many of whom proudly wore Pride pins!
Some progress is more visible than others, and we are grateful for Mayor Levin’s leadership in bringing progress to City Hall.
On Tuesday, June 13, members of the Elmhurst Pride Collective board planned to be at the DuPage County Board meeting to witness a similar proclamation by the County Board.
Following is the mayor ’s Proclamation of June 2023 as Pride Month:
“WHEREAS, the nation was founded upon and is guided by a set of principles that includes that every person has been created equal, that each has rights to their life, liberty and pursuit of happiness and that each shall be accorded the full recognition and protection of the law; and,
“WHEREAS, the City of Elmhurst is dedicated to the acceptance of all its residents, regardless of age, beliefs, disability, ethnicity, identity, race, religion, gender identity, sex or sexual orientation; and,
“WHEREAS, the City of Elmhurst is a welcoming community and an exceptional place to life learn, work, play and raise a family; and,
“WHEREAS, Elmhurst’s Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Queer (LGBTQ) residents are welcome and valuable members of our community and Elmhurst is dedicated to fostering acceptance of all its citizens and preventing discrimination and bullying based on sexual orientation and gender identity; and
“WHEREAS, the CDC recognizes that LGBTQ teens are at a higher risk to be the victims of violence and have increased suicide rates; and it is imperative that young people in our community, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity, feel valued, safe, empowered, and supported by their peers, educators, and community leaders.
“NOW THEREFORE, I, Scott M. Levin, mayor of the City of Elmhurst, encourage all community residents to eliminate prejudice wherever it exists and to celebrate our diversity by celebrating our LGBTQ friends, neighbors and children and do hereby proclaim the month of June 2023 as: Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Queer (LGBTQ) Pride Month in the City of Elmhurst.”
Volunteers with the Elmhurst Pride Collective painted the windows at Alan Energy Services on Spring Road to recognize June as Pride Month, as declared by Elmhurst Mayor Scott Levin.
The 27th Elmhurst Garden Club (EGC) “An Afternoon in the Garden” Garden Walk and Boutique Faire featuring six glorious private gardens and one special birthday celebration public garden will be held Sunday, July 9 from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Tickets will be sold online only at the web site: elmhurstgardenclub.org. From now until midnight on July 8, tickets will be $18 per person, After that date, tickets will be $23 each.
The featured public garden this year is the Wilder Park Conservatory, which will hold its 100th Birthday Celebration with refreshments at 10 a.m. at the Conservatory. The Boutique Faire in Wilder Park, featuring a garden plants sale, accessories, horticultural experts, and more is free and open to the public.
Proceeds from the EGC Walk will
William Joseph Prust, 66 William Joseph
“Bill” Prust, of Norman, Okla., formerly of Villa Park and Elmhurst, passed away recently at the age of 66. Beloved father of Joey (Kathy).
Loving grandfather of Jordan and Olivia Prust. Dear brother of Donna Faur, Nancy (Mike) Hogan and the late Richie Prust. Dear son of the late Willard and Mary Prust. Fond companion of Judy Cossey. Dear uncle of Sheri, John, Renee, Michelle, Brian and Katie. Great uncle and cousin of many. Bill was an avid Chicago Bears fan. A celebration of his life will be held at a future date. Arrangements by Pedersen Ryberg Funeral Home, 435 N. York Street. For info 630-834-1133.
Judith B Salon accepted the help of high school artists Delilah Kamins and Eva Aukst, who volunteered to paint their windows to show support of Pride Month in Elmhurst. Sherwin Williams donated the paint and the tools that were used.
A mother and daughter team painted these windows of The Gaming Goat located at 160 N. York, one of the businesses who agreed to take part in the EPC’s celebration of Pride Month.
fund scholarships awarded to college/ university students majoring in Horticulture, Environmental Studies, and other related sciences. Since 1996 more than $210,000 in EGC Scholarship Funds have been awarded to deserving students. Further information available at elmhurstgardenclub.org.
Eye exercises are used to treat different eyesight issues and conditions. Eye exercises help strengthen eye muscles, improve focus, reduce unwanted eye movements, and stimulate the brain’s vision center. They improve vision by training eyes to see better. Sometimes called vision therapy, eye exercises are a form of physical therapy that may be prescribed after eye surgery. Individuals may also benefit from these exercises if they struggle to focus while reading, have problems with depth perception, experience double vision, or have a condition like crossed eyes, lazy eye, or a drifting eye. Eye exercises can also improve eyestrain and sensitivity to light, but they do not improve conditions such as dyslexia, eye spasms, or paralyzed eye muscles. Eye exercises can be part of vision therapy. Think of it like physical therapy for your eyes. Your optometrist may give you a vision therapy plan in order to improve your visual skills, make you more comfortable and change how your brain interprets what you see. The program might also include special lenses, prisms, patches, electronic targets or balance boards. If it’s been a while since you’ve had your eyes checked, please call SKOWRON EYE CARE to schedule an eye exam. At Skowron Eye Care, our mission is your vision.
P.S. Everyone’s eyes can benefit by practicing the 20-20-20 rule: when focused on a task, take a break every 20 minutes for 20 seconds to focus on something that’s 20 feet away.
370 N. York, Elmhurst, IL 60126 630-834-6244 www.skowroneyecare.com
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.
June 10
A victim in the 300 block of W. Grand told police that a verbal argument turned physical when the suspect struck the victim. The victim did not wish sign complaints.
June 12
Ashley Kline, 39, of Elmhurst, was charged with criminal trespass to a vehicle near Grand and York at 7:15 p.m. According to police, while on patrol, a reporting officer located a vehicle that was reported stolen by Enterprise Rental Car.
June 10
Mark P. Fikaris, 53, of Elmhurst, was charged with assault, disorderly conduct and criminal damage to government support property in the 100 block of E. Crescent at 12:40 a.m. Police said officers responded to a verbal domestic where the suspect was intoxicated. The suspect was taken into custody and was transported to the police station. While in custody, police said the suspect damaged a camera in one of the holding cells.
June 8
A complainant at a business in the 100 block of N. Addison told police that a suspect entered the facility and began recording another individual without their permission. The suspect then left the facility. The suspect will be served a no-trespass notice.
June 11
Frank Mendoza, 41, of Chicago, was charged with DUI, improper lane use, speeding, improper lighting and illegal transportation of alcohol subsequent to a traffic stop near North and Larch at 3:11 a.m.
June 10
A 57-year-old Bellwood man was charged with domestic battery and unlawful possession of a controlled substance subsequent to a call for a disturbance in the 600 block of S. York at 3:07 a.m. Police said a victim reported the suspect battered her.
A 21-year-old DeKalb woman was charged with domestic battery near North and Glade at 11:32 a.m. Police said that subsequent to a verbal argument, the suspect punched the victim.
June 9
Marquil T. McBride Jr., 18, of Hillside, was charged with disorderly conduct, reckless driving, unlawful possession of cannabis by a driver, disobeying a traffic control device and no insurance in the 300 block of S. Route 83 at 4:15 p.m.
June 8
A reporting officer responded to a business in the 100 block of N. York for a customer dispute. The complainants related the suspect was irate and was yelling at the victims. The suspect was no longer at the scene but was later located. The suspect was served a no-trespass notice and agreed to never return to the business.
June 6
A reporting officer responded to the 100 block of E. Brush Hill at 12:04 p.m. for a delayed domestic disturbance. The complainant and suspect were involved in a verbal argument where they grabbed each other’s arms. No injuries were reported.
According to information provided last week by the Elmhurst Police Department, police reported three incidents of fleeing and eluding during which the driver of a vehicle fled the scene after being stopped for a traffic stop by police.
According to information provided by the Elmhurst Police Department, police reported three incidents of identity theft or fraud.
June 12
Devonte C. Sims, 30, of Calumet City, was charged with possession of a controlled substance, possession of cannabis by a driver, failure to signal, expired registration and no insurance subsequent to a traffic stop in the 100 block of E. Butterfield at 1:15 a.m. Police said Sims was found to be in possession of cannabis and ecstasy.
According to information provided last week by the Elmhurst Police Department, police reported seven incidents of possession of cannabis by either the driver of a vehicle or a passenger: Brandon P. Johnson, 30, of Chicago, near Roosevelt and Hamilton at 8:47 a.m. June 8; Clelina T. Gibson, 23, of Elmhurst, in the 600 block of S. York at 3:30 p.m. June 8; Jordan P. Lodygowski, 18, of Chicago, in the 100 block of W. Industrial at 2:03 a.m. June 12; Julian A. Diaz, 19, of Melrose Park, in the 600 block of N. Adele at 7:34 a.m. June
12; Austin Brown, 27, of Naperville, near St. Charles and Route 83 at 5:06 p.m. June 12; Jacob White, 23, of Oak Park, in the 100 block of E. Schiller at 12:30 a.m. June 14; and Amory Diming, 19, of Elmhurst, near York and Monroe at 2:39 a.m. June 14.
Jan. 11-June 11
A complainant in the 200 block of E. Third reported both his wife and mother-in-law removed his firearms from the residence. The complainant’s wife related she stored the firearms because she wanted them out of the house. The complainant was able to locate two of the three firearms.
June 10
A complainant in the 200 block of N. Bonnie Brae told police at 3:41 p.m. that while cleaning out his parents’ house, he located unused ammunition and a grenade. The DuPage County Bomb Squad responded and disposed of the grenade.
June 13
Police said officers responded to the 400 block of N. York at 10:03 p.m. for the report of a parking complaint. Upon investigation, the vehicle was found to be reported stolen on June 8. Illinois State Police were advised that Elmhurst police located the stolen vehicle and were notified to remove it from LEADS.
June 12
A complainant at an auto dealership in the
200 block of W. Grand told police that an unknown suspect(s) damaged the service entry gate. A damaged, unoccupied Dodge Durango was found idling near the gate. Employees discovered two Dodge Durangos had been stolen from the lot. Both stolen vehicles were recovered in Chicago and towed to the police station.
June 14
Jayla T. McClinton, 21, of Chicago, was charged with felony retail theft at a store in the 300 block of S. Route 83 at 6:05 p.m. Police said that subsequent to the call of a retail theft in progress, the suspect was located with clothing and a Hoover vacuum. It was discovered the suspect had left the store with the unpaid merchandise, according to police.
June 9
Police said a female subject approached the counter at a gas station in the 400 block of N. York at 8:10 p.m. and asked for cigarettes and cigarillos. When her credit card was declined, a male suspect took the cigarettes off the counter and walked out without paying for them.
May 31
A reporting officer responded to a store in the 300 block of S. Route 83 at 6:31 p.m. for the report of a delayed retail theft. The complainant told police they are conducting an investigation on a suspect who, on two separate occasions, had stolen items and returned them for store credit.
June 13
Police said that subsequent to a dispute in the 900 block of S. York at 12:28 p.m., Devree Vanhorn, 40, of Willowbrook, was found to have a valid warrant out of DuPage County.
Business community invited, ECCI members attend free
The Elmhurst Police Department will be holding an Active Shooter Preparedness Training for members of the Elmhurst Chamber of Commerce & Industry (ECCI) as well as other members of the Elmhurst business community at Elmhurst Hospital on Tuesday, June 27 from 7:30-9:30 a.m. The breakfast and venue
are sponsored by Edward-Elmhurst Health and Superior Air-Ground Ambulance is sponsoring admission of all ECCI members, but registration is appreciated.
Tickets for non-members are $30 per person. Register at elmhurstchamber.org or call 630-834-6060.
DuPage County is now accepting applications for its newly-created grant program to assist small nonprofits in the County.
The Small Agency Grant Program will provide grants of less than $25,000 to County agencies that provide programs and services in the areas of economic development, including job readiness and literacy, education and mentoring, housing and shelter, behavioral health services, substance use disorder treatment, or food assistance.
“Throughout the last few years, we have heard from small nonprofits that are struggling to provide these crucial services,” said Greg Schwarze, chairman of the Human Services Committee. “These funds will help to improve the lives of many of our neediest residents, and we are honored to assist these nonprofits in their missions.”
To be eligible, the agency must:
• Be a 501(c)(3) organization in good stand-
ing;
• Have annual revenue less than $300,000; and
• Complete an application detailing the specific activities and outcomes to be supported by County funds.
The DuPage County Board allocated more than $1 million the program at its May 9 meeting. Funds will be distributed equally among the six County Board districts, with each district receiving no more than $175,000.
Any agency that previously received funding from the County under the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act program or the American Rescue Plan (ARP) Act program is ineligible for funding.
For more information, send an email to: ARPAExpenses@dupageco.org. To apply, visit dupagecounty.gov and search: Small Agency Grant Program. The portal will remain open until Sunday, July 23.
Thirteen Elmhurst high school students conducted a special Capstone Ceremony to top off the year they have had as members of the Elmhurst Student Philanthropy Council and to share the fruits of their labor.
Led by program director and Elmhurst resident Jake Meding, the Council teaches Elmhurst high school juniors and seniors the business side of philanthropy, providing hands-on experience in what the program calls “the Three Pillars of
Philanthropy,” which are:
1. Learning to give responsibly to charitable organizations;
2. Raising money for worthy causes;
3. Volunteering your time and talents.
On Wednesday, June 14, the Council hosted its Capstone Ceremony, where the students distributed $7,000 to five local non-profit organizations including Access Sports, Bridge Communities, DuPage PADS, Inside
Out Club DuPage and Warm Coats for Cool Kids.
The students included (listed alphabetically): Amy DeWitte, Jenny Fromelt, Enya Gildea, Matthew Karsten, Michael Karsten, Ben Leischner, Kelsey McDonough, Zoe McMillen, Gareth Martinez, Katelyn Natale and Henry Schueler.
If anyone is interested in participating in next year’s program, Jake Meding can be reached via email at medingj@gmail.com.
The Elmhurst District 205 Board of Education has unanimously approved the appointment of Dr. Joseph W. Schumacher as the next assistant superintendent of human resources.
The District received a total of 47 applications, 15 of which were selected for initial screening. A series of interviews, some in-person with a panel that included district administration, leaders from other D205 schools and Board of Education members, led to the selection of Schumacher.
“Filling this position with the absolute best candidate for the job was vital to the success of our team,” said Superintendent Dr. Keisha Campbell. “Throughout the interview process, the experience, skills, and dis-
position of Dr. Schumacher became increasingly evident as strengths for the role. His experience as a teacher and a building leader in a large unit school district was something that was important to us, along with his drive and dedication to excellence in education.
“We are honored to have him join our team and look forward to working with him as we continue to ensure that all students graduate ready for college, career and life.”
In addition to 20-plus years of experience as a leader in education, Dr. Joseph Schumacher has a diverse portfolio which encompasses teaching English Language Arts at both the high school and middle school levels while also serving as an assistant dean and varsity cross-country coach. He then spent eight years as a middle school assistant principal
and ultimately became the building principal of Dundee Middle School in Community Unit School District 300. Dr. Schumacher was then promoted to the executive director of curriculum & assessment role at District 300 and was swiftly promoted to the role of assistant superintendent of middle and high schools, a role he has held for the last seven years.
“I am beyond excited for the opportunity to be the next assistant superintendent of human resources,” he said. “I look forward to working closely with District 205 staff and administrators to guide the human resources department. I am grateful for the opportunity to be a part of the strong and impressive history of the District as we also explore ways to honor that history while continuously improving and ensuring that our work aligns to the strategic plan and, always staying focused on looking for opportunities to enhance and expand the student experience.”
June 14 at Community Bank
teaches students the business side of philanthropy.
who have sent a donation to help underwrite The Elmhurst Independent. For those of you who haven’t done so in the past year, but enjoy this newspaper and would like to help us pay for its operation, please send a donation in any amount to:
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Is it just me, or has life gotten more complicated? So many variables and tough decisions. So many crossroads.
And it’s all happening at lightning speed.
Even on days when I don’t tune in to the cable news networks.
The world feels like is spinning faster and faster on its axis. Or so it seems. And that can make life seem like an upended house during a tornado. (We aren’t in Kansas anymore.)
The storms seem to be all around us. The lightning and thunder are imminent. Threatening.
We watch our backs. We peek around the corner before stepping forward. We lose sleep. We worry about the past and what will happen next.
What will happen—if.
Life seems out of control, or at least beyond our control. It’s scary. Beyond scary. It is overwhelming and all-encompassing. It threatens to take our breath away.
If only we could make it stop.
But we can’t.
Or maybe we can. Even if just for a moment.
Take that moment. Take a breath.
For yourself and no one else. Just. Take. A. Breath.
Then take another. And other. And stay there. With just yourself and your breath.
Think of a positive thought and put it into a sentence, if you can.
The world is good. Life is good. I am good.
Peace, kindness, love are inside me. Right now. Right here.
I love tacos.
You get the idea.
Don’t worry about bills or the mortgage or your kids or the leaking oil in your car. It will wait until after this moment. Believe me, it will all be there long after this moment.
So take it. The moment. Take it for you. Take it for all that you love. Take it for all that you hold close to your heart. Just take it.
It isn’t selfish. Not at all. It’s the opposite of that.
Finding your peace and your
By JILL PERTLER Columnist
calm is generosity at its finest. It enables you to escape the storm that threatens to torment your life. Take a break because you deserve it. You need it. You know you need it.
Oh how you know.
Life can feel like a storm, a tempest, a hurricane. The wind whips with life’s pressures and problems. Your hair may be drenched. Your clothes cling to your wet body. The air is hard and harsh blowing on your skin. Thunder echoes; lightning fills the sky. There are too many close calls to count.
But in the midst of every hurricane, including this one, is the eye of the storm. The calm. Find that. In the midst of the chaos of life, find the center – the tranquil peace that is the eye of the storm – and hunker down and keep yourself there.
And just breathe.
In the quiet, still space where everything just outside your own being is whirling all around you, stay in the eye—in your own calm. Where everything is as it should be. Still. Peace-filled. In focus.
Clarity is rampant in the eye of the storm. What a gift that is. Embrace that gift. Accept it as yours. Know that it is yours for the taking. A choice. Your choice.
The eye—in the calm, your calm can lead to clarity, to sanity in an insane world.
Chaos is undoubtedly all around us and it can be, and is, overwhelming. Find your calm.
Your own calm, in the midst of the chaos. Right there in front of you.
In the eye of the storm.
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.
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The Elmhurst Community Unit School District 205 Board held a regular meeting on June 13 at the District 205 Center, 162 S. York St. Board member Jim Collins was absent from the meeting.
The meeting’s spotlight/recognition segment noted the achievements of several district students, including winners in the PTA Reflections program. In that program, more than 300,000 students nationwide create original works of art each year in response to a student-selected theme. Students submit their works of art in one or more arts categories.
Kennedy Burklow, a student at Hawthorne Elementary School, and Rowan Hoppe, a student at Sandburg Middle School, were both recognized with the Award of Merit at the PTA Reflections program’s national level. Burklow submitted her entry in the Dance Choreography category. Hoppe submitted her entry—”The Spark”—in the Literature category.
The board also recognized York High School’s girls and boys water polo teams during the spotlights/ recognitions segment of the June 13 meeting. York’s girls water polo team recently completed the best season in the program’s history, posting a record of 29-4 and winning the third-place trophy at the IHSA state meet. York’s boys water polo team also enjoyed an excellent
2023 season. The Dukes, who finished their season with a 27-7 record, won the fourth-place trophy at the IHSA state meet. That effort delivered the program its first-ever IHSA state trophy.
The meeting’s public-participation segment included comments from six people. One of the speakers criticized the district for what he felt was the lack of homework, testing and overall rigor. That speaker, who said he had three children in the district, claimed the district tried to make its test results look better by comparing those results to certain districts.
Four people spoke during public forum in support of the district including the fiction book “American Street” in the English curriculum for York High School freshmen. (See story on page 1 of this issue.)
The meeting also included a presentation about results from Northwest Evaluation Association (NWEA) Measures of Academic Progress (MAP) assessments. District students in kindergarten through eighth grade took three administrations of the NWEA MAP assessment during the 2022-23 school year—one during the fall, one during the winter and one during the spring.
That presentation during the June 13 meeting, which included numerous charts, graphs and statistics, reviewed the results from the recent spring assessments. Kevin Rubenstein, the district’s assistant superintendent for student services, said that the results from the spring assess-
ments show the district’s students are making gains, and doing well across the board.
The meeting also included a presentation about the district’s 2022-23 instructional reviews in the areas of mathematics, dual language programming and emergent bilingual programming. The presentation noted that the district currently serves 856 English Language Learner (ELL) coded students in kindergarten through 12th grade. The district’s dual language program currently serves 308 students in kindergarten through fourth grade who attend Conrad Fischer Elementary School. In that program, students in kindergarten and first grade spend 80 percent of the time speaking Spanish and 20 percent speaking English. Second-graders in the program spend 70 percent of the time speaking Spanish and 30 percent of the time speaking English. The Spanish to English ratio is 60 to 40 percent for the program’s third-grader students, and an even 50-50 for the program’s fourth-graders.
The June 13 meeting also included a presentation about the district’s latest staffing figures for the 2023-24 school year. The district is planning for 715.84 Full-Time Equivalent (FTE) positions for certified staff members for the upcoming school year. That figure includes 492.37 certified positions in general education, 166.8 certified positions in special education and 57.17 positions in English Learning (EL).
See CAPSULES, Page 19
Editor’s note: Our next DuPage Destinations section will be published Thursday, July 13. If you have information on an event in DuPage County taking place after July 13 that you would like us to consider listing here, please email that information to: news1@rvpublishing.com
Fourth of July events
Bartlett: Fourth of July Festival—June 30 through July 4. Parade 1-3 p.m. Sunday, July 2 from 1-3 p.m. Fireworks at 9:15 p.m. Tuesday, July 4.
Bensenville: Fourth of July parade at 10 a.m. Tuesday, July 4. Following the parade, come out to Redmond Park for LibertyFest— games, events, music and food. Vendor items are available for cash purchase only. Fireworks begin at 9:30 p.m.
Bolingbrook: The village will be celebrating Independence Day on Tuesday, July 4, with the
annual celebration and fireworks show at the Bolingbrook Golf Club. Access to the grounds starts at 3 p.m. There will be live bands performing at 5:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Fireworks start just after 9 p.m.
Burr Ridge: Fireworks at Walker Park Monday, July 3 starting at dusk. Food vendors selling snacks and non-alcoholic beverages will be at the park starting at 5:30 p.m.
Carol Stream: An Independence Day concert and fireworks show will take place at the Carol Stream Town Center starting at 6 p.m. Saturday, July 1. Fireworks will immediately follow the concert at around 9:15.
Downers Grove: The village is excited to bring everyone together to celebrate the Independence Day Parade on Tuesday, July 4, starting at 1 p.m. The parade travels south on Main Street, ending at Warren Avenue. Join your friends at the fireworks display. The show
starts at approximately 9:30 p.m. at 75th Street and Lemont Road.
Elmhurst: The 18th annual Elmhurst Running Club’s 4 on the 4th four-mile race starts at 7:15 a.m. Tuesday, July 4.
Kids 1K (for ages 5-12) starts at 8:20.
Glen Ellyn: The village’s Fourth of July parade steps off near Falwell and Lambert at noon Tuesday, July 4. The grand marshal is Cubs Hall of Famer Billy Williams. Lake Ellyn Park will be the site of the fireworks show, which starts at dusk.
Hinsdale: Family Festival starting at 10 a.m. Tuesday, July 4, at Burlington Park. The parade starts at 10 a.m. at Sixth and Garfield streets.
Lombard: The village will be hosting a fireworks display on Tuesday, July 4, at Madison Meadow Park. The fireworks show will begin at dusk, or when the sky is completely dark. In the event of unfavorable weather conditions, the display may be postponed or rescheduled.
Lisle: An Independence Day fireworks display is scheduled for Monday, July 3, 2023 beginning at 9:30 p.m. at Community Park. The show is expected to last approximately 25 minutes. There will be live bands starting at 5:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.
Naperville: The city will host a fireworks show in celebration of Independence Day at the Frontier Sports Complex, 3380 Cedar Glade Dr. Fireworks will begin at 9:30 p.m. on Tuesday, July 4. The Naperville Salute, featuring live music, food, beer and family fun celebrating our hometown heroes, takes place form June 30-July 3 at Rotary Hill.
Roselle: The tradition of fireworks is returning to Roselle again on Monday, July 3 at Lake Park High School West Campus, 500 W. Bryn Mawr Ave. This event with fun for the entire family includes food trucks along Bryn Mawr starting at 7:30 p.m., and a fireworks display at dusk.
Villa Park: The annual Independence Day Parade, hosted by VFW Post 2801, starts at 10 a.m., going west on Central to Harvard, South on Harvard to Madison, East on Madison to Summit, North on Summit to Park, and West on Park to Ardmore for dispersal.
Westmont: The annual Independence Day Celebration will be held at Ty Warner Park on Tuesday, July 4, starting at 4 p.m. and concluding with fireworks, which typically begin at 9:30 p.m. There will be food trucks, concessions, games, beer and live music.
Wheaton: The city’s fireworks show will take place at Graf Park on Monday, July 3.
There will be music, games, carnival rides and other activities starting at 5:30 p.m. The parade will step off at 10 a.m. Tuesday, July 4, starting at the intersection of Main Street and Wakeman Avenue.
Ongoing
North Suburban Carvers meetings
The North Suburban Carvers meet on the first and third Mondays of each month at the Wood Dale Public Library from 6:30-8:30 p.m.
Anyone interested in carving, power carving, wood burning or special finishing techniques is welcome. North Suburban Carvers is a non-profit organization that promotes carving in the Chicago area. For more information, visit: northsurburbancarvers.com .org/calendar.aspx.
Now through Aug. 23
Music in the Park Bensenville
Recurring weekly on Wednesdays from 7:30-9:30 p.m. in downtown Bensenville, one of the area’s favorite summer concert series features great music, a classic car cruise night and a 50/50 split the pot raffle that benefits not for profit organizations in the community. Free. For more information on bands that will be performing, visit: https://www.bensenville. il.us/.
Now through July 27
Concerts on the Village Green
Burr Ridge
Thursdays from 7-8:30 p.m. at the Burr Ridge Village Center, 701 Village Center Drive, the concerts, recurring weekly, will be held outside on The Village Green. You may arrive as early as 6 p.m. to grab your spot and relax before the music begins. Seating is not provided, so please bring your own chairs, blankets, etc. Admission: free. For more information, visit: www.shopburrridge.com/event/ Concerts-on-The-Village-Green/2145570463.
Now through Aug. 9
Wednesday Nights Live
Elmhurst
Recurring Wednesdays from 6:30-8:30 p.m. at the Elmhurst City Centre, 256 N. York St., enjoy the region’s top cover bands under the Umbrella Sky Installation. Free. For more information, visit: https://elmhurstcitycentre. com.
Now through Aug. 15
Summer Concert Series
Downers Grove
Recurring Tuesdays from 6-8:30 p.m. at Fishel Park, 1036 Curtiss St., these free concerts feature rock, country, blues, and oldies bands. Watch the concerts in person at the park. Doors open and food and beverage sales begin at 6 p.m. Music will play between 7 and See EVENTS, Page 12
SUNDAYS
50¢ Boneless Wings LIMIT 12 (with side purchase)
$5 Sausage & Peppers ‘Wich (with side purchase)
$9 Pasta Marinara (add $2 for Vodka, Meat, Carbonara or Alfredo)
$10 Bacon Wrapped Pickle Spears
$10 Vegan Pasta Marinara
$4 Mimosa - $6 Tito’s Bloody Mary
$4.50 Miller Lite or $6 Import 22 oz. Drafts
$17 Bottles of Woodbridge House Wine
WEDNESDAYS
FREE Bar Bingo/Kids eat free
10 and Under - Ask server for more details
$5 Gourmet Cheeseburger (with side purchase)
$10 BACON Wrapped Mushrooms
$8 Impossible Burger (with side purchase)
$5 U Call Its $8 and Under Wine/Liquor ONLY
$5 Pepper & Egg ‘Wich (with side purchase)
$15 Fish & Chips (1/2 Pound Alaskan White Fish)
$10 Bacon Stuffed Avocado
$8 Vegan Burrito (with side purchase)
$5 Stella Draft
$5 Crown or Titos
$25 High Noon Buckets
H H H H H H H H H
TUESDAYS
$2 Beef/Pulled Pork Taco
$3 Chicken - Fish - Pork Belly - Steak
$4 Vegan Tacos - Impossible Meat - Chicken - Pork
$4 Cilantro Lime Rice or Seasoned Black Beans
$10 BACON Nachos
$4 Modelo Draft
$6 Don Julio Margaritas
$7 Don Julio Frozen Margaritas
$20 Any Mexican Beer Buckets
Vegan Chili Bowl - $7
Vegan Chicken Nuggets - $12
Vegan Meatballs - $15
Vegan Sausage and Peppers - $15
Vegan Chicken Sliders - $15
THURSDAYS
$5 Pulled Pork ‘Wich (with side purchase)
$10 BACON Wrapped Mozzarella Sticks
$8 Vegan Chicken Parmesan ‘Wich (with side purchase)
$4 Drafts $8 and Under
Half Price Bottles of Wine $25 or More
1/2 Off any $20 or More Bourbon, Scotch or Whiskey
SATURDAYS/UFC
$5 1/2 Lb BLT ‘Wich (with side purchase)
$10 BACON Croquettes
$8 Vegan Buffalo Chicken ‘Wich (with side purchase)
$5 Sam Seasonal Draft
$5 Proper Twelve Shot
$5 Absolut or Jameson
$22 Modelo Buckets
CLOSED - MONDAYS
Impossible Sliders - $16
Vegan Kabobs - $18
Vegan Southwest Quesadilla - $15
Impossible Burger - $17
Vegan Buffalo Chicken ‘Wich - $16
Vegan Chicken Parmesan ‘Wich - $18
Vegan Pasta - $14
Vegan Chicken Burrito - $18
Vegan Stuffed Peppers - $25
Vegan Sides - $5
10” Vegan Cheese Pizza - $13
Vegan Chocolate Peanut Butter Ice Cream - $5
3 Layer Vegan/Gluten Free Cake - $7 36 Drafts HHH
350 Bourbons, Scotches & Whiskeys
99¢ Chicken Tenders ~ SLIDERS ~
$2 Grilled Chicken - Meatball - Pulled Pork
$3 Burger - Fish - Pork Belly
$4 Vegan Chicken or Impossible Slider
$5 Italian Beef ‘Wich
$8 Medium Cheese Pizza - $3 Full Toppings
$12
XL Cheese Pizza - $4 Full Toppings
$4 Well Gin, Rum, Tequila, Vodka & Whiskey
$4 House Wine (Woodbridge)
$5 Blue Moon Drafts
$15 Domestic Buckets - $20 Import Buckets
$8 Jefferson Old Fashioned
$5 Jefferson 1.25 oz. Pour
She will play works by Beethoven, Mozart, J.S. Bach and Camille Saint-Saëns. Sylvia recently celebrated practicing 2,300 consecutive days.
The Summer Music at Bethel concert series will present 11-year-old violinist and singer Sylvia Pine in concert on Friday, July 7 at 7 p.m. at Bethel United Church of Christ in Elmhurst. Artistic Director Jeffrey Panko of the concert series will accompany her on the piano.
The concert will include violin sonatas by Beethoven and Mozart, a partita by J.S. Bach, Danse Macabre by Camille Saint-Saëns and two vocal selections by Franz Schubert and W.A. Mozart.
Daughter of the internationally acclaimed concert violinist Rachel Barton Pine, Sylvia’s exceptional talents have been recognized worldwide and her recent accomplishments include performances in Carnegie Hall, the Musikverein (Vienna) and the Royal Albert Hall (London).
Described as “adorable and formidable” by the Illinois Times, 11-yr.old Sylvia Pine began violin studies at age two with Isabelle Rozendaal and currently studies with Davis
King at the Music Institute of Chicago as an Artists of Tomorrow Merit Scholar. She made her radio debut in October 2018 on the nationally syndicated classical music radio program Performance Today®. At a recent concert she celebrated 2,300 consecutive daily practice sessions.
In addition to music, Miss Pine enjoys reading, writing stories, playing in the woods, drawing, and learning about different species of mythical creatures. She is vegan and loves all animals.
Recently, she has become active in helping support efforts to save the pangolins, the most trafficked mammals in the world.
The concert will last approximately one hour with one short intermission. A reception will follow the concert. Bethel summer concerts are non-ticketed events. A freewill donation will be taken at the door.
Bethel United Church of Christ is located at 315 East St. Charles Road in Elmhurst.
Illinois residents will now be given clear notice on contracts that automatically renew, thanks to a law sponsored by state Sen. Suzy Glowiak Hilton.
“Automatic renewal contracts can be confusing, and businesses take advantage of this all the time,” said Glowiak Hilton (D-Western Springs).
“This new law will ensure residents give clear consent when entering into a contract so they are not charged for services they do not need or want.”
Glowiak Hilton’s measure requires clear and conspicuous disclosure of a contract’s automatic renewal terms, including that the contract will continue until the consumer cancels, the dead-
line to cancel before being charged for the renewal, the amount of recurring charges, and the length of the renewal terms. For contracts lasting twelve months or more and that automatically renew for more than one month, customers must receive notice at least 30 days before the renewal.
“This law will prevent businesses from robbing residents,” said Glowiak Hilton. “No business in Illinois should be allowed to manipulate someone by not providing the right information about what they are selling to them.”
Editor’s note: This was submitted by the office of State Sen. Suzy Glowiak Hilton.
(Continued from page 8)
8:30 p.m. Don’t forget to bring your lawn chairs or blankets. For more information, visit: www.dgparks.org/summer-concert-series.
Now through Aug. 20
Marvelocity: The art of Alex Ross Elmhurst
Recurring daily at the Elmhurst Art Museum, 150 Cottage Hill Ave., this exhibit celebrates one of the greatest artists in the field of comic books. From his home in the Chicago area, Ross has revitalized classic superheroes into works of fine art by illustrating characters such as Spider-Man, Captain America, Iron Man, Storm from the X-Men, the Avengers, Black Panther and many more for nearly 30 years. For more information, visit: www.elmhurstartmuseum.org/exhibitions/marvelocity/.
Now through Aug. 30
Arbor Evenings Lisle
Recurring weekly on Wednesday from 6-8 p.m. at the Morton Arboretum, 4100 Route 53, Unwind with family and friends on Wednesday evenings at The Morton Arboretum this summer. Mingle as you enjoy live music surrounded by beautiful trees on the picturesque Frost Hill. Admission: $8 for members, $13 for nonmenbers. For more information and a performance schedule, visit: https://mortonarb.org/explore/activities/events/arbor-evenings.
Now through Aug. 31
Rock ‘N Wheels Addison
Recurring Thursdays from 6-10 p.m. presented by the Village of Addison, Rock ‘N Wheels features vintage vehicles, great bands from the area and food tents. Admission: free. For more information and a schedule of bands, visit: www.ithappensinaddison.com/events.
Two students with a passion for science and medicine, and who are transferring to Elmhurst University this fall, have been named the first-place winners of the 2023 Elmhurst University Intellectual Curiosity Scholarship Competition.
Kaitlyn Vess, who is transferring to Elmhurst from a school in her home state of Texas; and Lola Shittu, who is transferring from Oakton College in Des Plaines, were each awarded a $5,000 renewable scholarship for up to two years of study at Elmhurst.
All admitted transfer students with a cumulative grade-point average of 3.25 or above were invited to participate in the Intellectual Curiosity
Scholarship Competition, which was launched in 2020 to support the enrollment of transfer students interested in pursuing their intellectual curiosity through education.
In the first round, applicants were asked to write an essay about a defining moment when their curiosity drove them to explore something in a different way; and, how that moment would shape their potential at Elmhurst and beyond.
Vess, who plans to major in biology and play on the women’s soccer team at Elmhurst, wants to become a veterinarian. In her essay, she described how Sy Montgomery’s book The Soul of an Octopus changed the way she
understood the minds of animals and how she interacts with them. She says that attending Elmhurst will enhance her intellectual curiosity and help her prepare for veterinary school.
Shittu says her love of books inspired her to leave her home in Nigeria and come to the U.S. to pursue higher education.
Her defining moment came during a research course she took at Oakton, when her curiosity about what seemed to be contaminating an experiment led to an exciting discovery. Shittu plans to study nursing at Elmhurst before becoming a nurse and eventually, a doctor.
During the second round of the
Courtesy of Sergi Farms LLC, the Wildflower Café at Elmhurst Hospital on May 9 served more than 2,600 tacos to nurses, employees, physicians and visitors in recognition of National Hospital Week and National Nurses Week. Pictured are (from left): Will Sutila, Elmhurst; Elmhurst Hospital RNs Emily Kinney, Jen Troutman and Melissa Granger; and Joe Sergi, Elmhurst.
competition on June 7, participants formed teams to compete in an academic trivia contest on topics ranging from U.S. history to physics. Each member of the winning team was awarded a $2,000 renewable scholarship for up to two years of study.
All students who submitted essays and participated in the second round of the competition received a $500 renewable scholarship for up to two years of study.
During the awards ceremony, University president Troy D. VanAken
congratulated all of the students, not only for participating in the competition but also for deciding to continue their education and pursue a bachelor’s degree.
“You all are here because you have an intellectual curiosity that drives you,” he said. “You also understand that college offers the kind of environment where you can follow that curiosity wherever it leads.”
For more information about EU’s transfer programs, (630) 617-3400 or visit Elmhurst.edu.
ADVISORY ALERTS
ATMOSPHERE CENTER
COAST
CYCLONE
EYE WALL
GALE
HURRICANE INTENSITY
INUNDATION
LANDFALL LOCATION
POSITION
PRECAUTION
RAINING
SEASON
STORMY
TRACKING
TYPHOON
VORTEX
WARNING WATCH
WINDS
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. Understand intuitively
5. Two of something
9. Not involving computer tech
11. Acclaimed
13. Undermine
15. The condition of being concealed or hidden
16. Irritate
17. The process of developing a theory
19. Ceramic jar
21. Not fresh
22. Dad’s fashion accessory
23. Popular review site
25. New Mexico county
26. ‘__ death do us part
27. Fees
29. Takes with force
31. One-time Yankees rookie sensation
33. Gordon and Snider are two
34. Body parts
36. Arranges
38. Fiddler crabs
39. Mimics
41. Witnesses
43. They __
44. Lasso
46. Runs down
48. In response to
52. Bird-like dinosaur
53. Metamorphic stages
54. Conditions of incapacity
56. Sodas are sold in these units
57. Break away from
58. Ethereal
59. Boggy
CLUES DOWN
1. Mangled
2. Ruffled some feathers
3. Not young
4. Lakers legend
5. Nocturnal S. American rodent
6. Direction (Scottish)
7. Intestinal inflammation
8. Spring back in fear
9. Owl genus
10. Girls
11. Unbeliefs
12. Force unit
14. Expired trade agreement
15. Went alone
18. Animal noises
20. Woman who graduated from a specific school
24. The very top
26. Organs in males
28. Earnings
30. Z Z Z
32. Reddish browns
34. A salt or ester of acetic acid
35. A place to get off your feet
37. More disreputable
38. Kidney condition
40. Cease moving
42. Quick
43. Extra seed covering
45. “Survivor: Panama” winner
47. Six
49. One who inspects lamps
50. Small parrot
51. Primordial matter of the universe
55. __ fi (slang)
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.
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.
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.
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847-888-9999 630-876-0111
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 1-800-9279275. EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY
COLUMBINE
new central heat & AC, private parking. Available mid July. $1,200 per month.
630-514-7911 439375
Faith United Methodist Church (FUMC) Lombard has available Rental Space Part of FUMC’S mission statement is to serve others. We are reaching out to churches, organizations, and individuals who are in need of building space, when our church is not using the space for ourselves.
Church location: 815 South Finley Road, Lombard, IL 60148
Spaces include:
• Church sanctuary on main level (for worship type activities only)
• Meeting rooms on lower and upper levels
• Large hall with a stage on lower level
• Fellowship room on main level
We currently have a few outside organizations meeting at our church. Thus, the rental space is available based on room type and open dates and times.
We invite you to reach out to our space coordinator, Jean at 630-877-6011 for further information. 439574
2004 MERCEDES-BENZ SL500 ROADSTER, CONVERTIBLE, 88,000 miles, all black, gorgeous. A must see! Non-smoking, garage kept. $14,300 obo. 708-9068555.
DuPage County State’s Attorney Robert Berlin and Naperville Chief of Police
Jason Arres have announced that bond has been set for a Mundelein man accused of attempting to hijack a man’s car with his grandson inside at gunpoint in Naperville.
Anton Cross, 24, appeared in bond court where Judge James McClusky set bond at $200,000 with 10 percent to apply. Cross is charged with one count of attempted aggravated vehicular hijacking (Class 1 felony), one count of aggravated unlawful use of a weapon by a felon (Class 2 felony) and one count of possession of a firearm by a felon (Class 2 felony). Cross is currently on parole for second degree murder. His parole expires on Jan. 30, 2024.
ficers responded to a call of an attempted carjacking in the 1300 block of McDowell Road. Approximately 40 minutes later, a concerned citizen called 9-1-1 regarding a suspicious man hiding in the bushes near Hinterlong Lane, which is approximately 1.6 miles away from the alleged attempted carjacking.
Officers responded to the 9-1-1call and located an individual, later identified as Cross, nearby. It is alleged that Cross began running from officers and during a chase, a loaded Glock handgun fell from his pocket. After a brief pursuit, Cross was taken into custody.
“The allegations that in the middle of the afternoon, Mr. Cross, who is currently on parole for second degree murder, threatened to steal at gunpoint a man’s car while his grandson was inside the vehicle, are outrageous and will be met with the full force and effect of the law,” Berlin said. “We are all very thankful that no harm came to the victim or his grandson. I thank the Naperville Police Department for their quick response to the original call as well as the second 9-1-1 call. Their outstanding police work led to the quick, peaceful apprehension of the defendant in this case.”
Cross’ next court appearance is scheduled July 10 for status in front of Judge Margaret O’Connell.
It’s almost that time of year again! The Elmhurst Area Branch of the American Association of University Women (AAUW) will hold its annual Used Book Sale from July 13-16 at Christ United Methodist Church, 920 Swain Ave. From June 26-July 10, book donations can be dropped off at the church or in the designated bins at the Elmhurst Public Library, 125 S. Prospect or at Courts Plus, 186 S. West Ave. Proceeds from the sale benefit local scholarships and national AAUW research and programs for women.
Friday, June 23 from 2-4 p.m.
Friday Features: O Brother, Where Art Thou?
Enjoy an afternoon at the movies. Find each week’s featured film at elmlib.org/Friday. No registration.
Saturday, June 24 from 10 a.m.-12 p.m. Canasta
Join us for a friendly game of Canasta every week. Prior experience is required. Live in-person. No registration.
Monday, June 26 from 7-8 p.m.
Discover Coding
Explore computer science and programming in this introductory overview of coding and applicable resources. Hybrid event. Registration required.
Tuesday, June 27 from 1-3 p.m. Bridge and Pinochle
Enjoy an afternoon of card games every week. Prior experience is required. No registration.
Wednesday, June 28 from 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
American Mah Jongg: Open Play
Gather every Wednesday for American Mah Jongg, a game of skill, strategy, calculation, and a certain amount of chance. Live in-person. No registration required.
SUBMITTED PHOTO Elmhurst Independent
Following an investigation into the matter, it is alleged that Cross approached a man who was putting his grandson in his vehicle and asked the man for directions. It is alleged that the victim gave Cross directions at which time Cross pulled out a firearm and told the man “give me your f*****g keys.” It is further alleged that when the man refused, Cross fled the scene.
Wednesday, June 28 from 7-8 p.m.
Discover DuPage: Budget-Friendly Things to Do Near Home Chicago has lots to offer, but there’s also plenty to do right here in DuPage County! Learn about deals, activities, and free options for all ages and interests. Hybrid event. Registration required.
Friday, June 30 from 2-4 p.m.
Friday Features: The Prestige
Enjoy an afternoon at the movies. Find each week’s featured film at elmlib.org/Friday. No registration required.
For information about any of the above programs, call (630) 279-8696 or visit elmlib.org/events.
On June 16 at approximately 12:13 p.m., Naperville police of-
Throughout the month of June, the Elmhurst Public Library asks patrons to show they treasure the community by bringing non-perishable food. This food drive will benefit the Elmhurst-Yorkfield Food Pantry.
Items most needed: canned mushrooms, canned beets, tomato paste, diced tomatoes, canned chiles, Frosted Flakes, Honey Nut Cheerios, Ritz-type crackers, deodorant, toothpaste, and toothbrushes.
Monetary donations are also accepted for United Community Concerns Association. UCCA provides food, referrals, and services to Elmhurst District 205’s most financially disadvantaged children and their families.
A collection box will be available in the lobby of Elmhurst Public Library June 1-30. For more information: elmlib.org or (630) 279-8696.
NOTICE
CERTIFICATE NO. 79113 was filed in the office of the County Clerk of DuPage County on JUNE 7, 2023, wherein the business firm of BUENAS NOCHES PRODUCTIONS LOCATED AT 312 N. HIGHVIEW AVENUE, ELMHURST, IL 60126 was registered; that the true or real name or names of the person or persons owning the business, with their respective post office address(es), is/are as follows:
NAME OF PERSON(S) CRYSTAL M. FLOEDER, HOME ADDRESS 312 N. HIGHVIEW AVENUE, ELMHURST, IL 60126.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and Official Seal at my office in Wheaton, Illinois, this 7TH day of JUNE, A.D. 2023.
JEAN KACZMAREK Jean Kaczmarek DuPage County Clerk (OFFICIAL SEAL)
(Published in The Elmhurst Independent June 15, 22 & 29, 2023) 439446
NOTICE
CERTIFICATE NO. 79123 was filed in the office of the County Clerk of DuPage County on JUNE 15, 2023, wherein the business firm of MACARONI KID WHEATON LOCATED AT 1801 GLENCOE STREET, WHEATON, IL 601873313 was registered; that the true or real name or names of the person or persons owning the business, with their respective post office address(es), is/are as follows:
NAME OF PERSON(S) ERICA ALHORN, HOME ADDRESS 1801 GLENCOE STREET, WHEATON, IL 60187.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and Official Seal at my office in Wheaton, Illinois, this 15TH day of JUNE, A.D. 2023.
JEAN KACZMAREK
Jean Kaczmarek
DuPage County Clerk (OFFICIAL SEAL)
(Published in The Elmhurst Independent June 22, 29 & July 6, 2023)
439789
Recent IC Catholic Prep graduate Bella Leslie wanted to head east for college.
I feel like I would be so bored without it because it has been such a big part of my life.”
Leslie said she has plenty of memories from IC Catholic Prep’s coach Nancy Kerrigan’s program.
Her landing spot ended up being at NCAA Division II Le Moyne College where the former Knights volleyball and soccer standout will continue her volleyball career at the Syracuse, New York school as a libero.
It was an eventual season for the York boys lacrosse team. Coach Tom Coyne’s squad finished the season 15-7 overall and reached the sectional final where it lost to fellow West Suburban Conference squad Glenbard West.
The Dukes, who finished 4-1 in WSC play during the regular season, defeated Chicago Whitney Young and Chicago St. Ignatius in the playoffs to reach the sectional final. York
had won seven games in a row heading into the sectional final.
“All of the schools I was looking at were on the East Coast,” Leslie told the Independent last week. “I visited Le Moyne and really liked it. It reminded me of high school because it was a small school, and in a smaller school you will know a lot more faces than if I would have gone to a bigger school. The campus there is really pretty. It sits on a big hill and the scenery around it is great. Everything is pretty close together. They have very nice facilities. The volleyball program has good workout facilities and a nice locker room. I liked how modern it was.”
“I loved playing there,” she said. “I probably enjoyed school volleyball more than club because I love my team and the coaching staff was very supportive on and off the court. It made it a really good environment to be in. Coach (Kerrigan) was great. I have known her for a while. When I was little, I did all the little kids camps, and her daughter was in my brother’s grade at IC.”
Of key statistical note, York junior Bennett Jones broke the program’s single-season goal-scoring record. In the playoff game against St. Ignatius, Jones tallied his 69th goal of the season, breaking the record formerly held by Ryder Maston (68). In addition to Jones, York’s top scorers on the season included senior Lance McCann, who is headed to the Air Force Academy, and junior Blake Reiger.
Leslie said she will miss plenty about IC Catholic Prep. “I will miss how close knit of a community it was,” she said. “I knew everybody at the school. It will be weird going on campus and not knowing all the faces. I’ll miss those close connections with the coaches and teachers. It will be weird for the first year or so.”
Coyne pointed out the Dukes reached the sectional final while navigating through adversity throughout the season. “The team rebounded from a rash of injuries mid-year,” he explained. “At one point, we had four of our 10 starters out with various injuries. We persevered and we won seven games in a row.”
week period,” said Coyne, whose team had a No. 6 state ranking. York excelled on both sides of the field this season, Coyne noted. “Offense was the strength,” he said. “We can score goals than any team in Illinois. We had 10 players contributing on offense.”
well, especially down the stretch for us,” Coyne noted. The Dukes, Coyne added, also were bolstered by strong goaltending. “Jack Kevin and Ryan Duwa were excellent in goal all year,” he said. “Jack has been our anchor in goal against the best in the state and in our playoff run.”
Dukes seventh at state,
Coyne said York also benefitted from playing a strong schedule. “We learned and grew from a very tough stretch of playing the Nos. 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 teams in the state in a two-
Defensively, York had to replace its top five players from 2022. In that regard, Coyne was thrilled with how Brendan Bartlett and Nathan Schlief played. “Brendan and Nathan stepped in to fill big shoes and played
York opened the playoffs with a 17-2 win over Whitney Young at home and then downed St. Ignatius 13-6 at St. Ignatius before losing 10-4 to Glenbard West in the sectional championship game.
Leslie plans on studying nursing at Le Moyne. “They have a good nursing program,” she said. “As far as what kind of a nurse I want to be, I’m not quite sure yet.”
By Mike Miazga CORRESPONDENTThings couldn’t have gone much better for the York girls badminton team this spring. The Dukes racked up the hardware all season, finishing seventh at state, winning a team sectional title and earning a share of the West Suburban Conference Silver Division title with Hinsdale Central.
Leslie played volleyball and girls soccer at IC Catholic Prep all four years. She was a center-midfielder on the Knights soccer team.
During the regular season, the Dukes were 13-2-1 overall in duals and 5-0 in WSC Silver contests. York won conference matches against Downers Grove North (13-2), Lyons Township (14-1), Oak Park-River Forest (15-0), Hinsdale Central (96) and Glenbard West (15-0). York’s only losses were to Stevenson (8-0) and Fremd (8-0). The Dukes also tied Neuqua Valley 4-4 and defeated neighbor Willowbrook 7-1.
Leslie’s volleyball journey started in the fifth grade, the first year she could play the sport at IC Grade School. She’s been playing club volleyball since seventh grade, most recently with the Chicago Elite group that practices out of Scores in Willow Springs and Montini High School in Lombard.
“I’m really excited to be able to play volleyball in college,” she said. “It gives me something to do.
Leslie said pandemic life hasn’t been overly exciting, though her club volleyball team has started practicing again. “We have been practicing two or three times a week,” she said. “We are going to be starting tournaments again. Before that I haven’t been doing anything because senior soccer season and the club volleyball season were cancelled. We were supposed to go to a few club volleyball qualifiers in Grand Rapids and Louisville. This summer, we have some tournaments planned over the next few weekends. They are little tournaments with all of the local clubs. Nothing large and really local. Other than that, I have been trying to work out a lot and stay in shape. I’ve been running a lot, so I got into that. I try and run every day.”
love how tough all our players are. Our girls know each match, win or lose, strengthens their game and they are willing to grind against all their opponents. Every athlete on the varsity team has pulled out some amazing wins as a result of this tenacity.”
been cancelled due to the pandemic. “I will probably leave Aug. 10-11 because it’s a far drive,” she said. “We had Zoom call with the team recently and they said they should have an answer about our season in the next 7-10 days. They talked about three scenarios and what could happen like if we start the season and someone gets sick and we have to stop and go. That’s one of the reasons why they are looking at moving the season to the spring. Right now the plan is to have a season, but we won’t know until the next 7-10 days.”
gles division and the doubles team of Sasha Neidigh and Lindsey White won the doubles sectional title, while Ella Glosner and Cate Fennell took second, meaning York qualified five players for the state finals meet.
But if all systems are a go, Leslie can’t wait to take her skills as a libero to the next level with the Dolphins. “I feel like being a libero you have to be really quick and that is typically what I am good at.
The Dukes took seventh at state with Neidigh and White finishing third in the state in the doubles division. Fennel and Glosner earned a top-24 doubles finish. Neidigh and White logged a 71-12 mark over the last two years, going 29-4 this past season.
Mia Koenigsberger, Delaney Butterly, Caroline Fischer and Courtney Yang earned all-WSC Silver Division honors. Neidigh and Stangarone were named to the all-WSC academic team. Neidigh and Lindsey White earned all-state honors, while that duo, along with Glosner and Fennell earned IABC certification as top state finishers.
Leslie said she is scheduled to report to Le Moyne in the Aug. 1215 timeframe, but noted preseason volleyball activities already have
I have really good reaction time,” she said. “I like diving on the floor and saving balls. It’s a really good feeling when you make a save. The position fits my personality, too. You have to be the loudest one on the court. I have a loud personality. You have to be pretty loud if you want to be a libero. I think I match that description.”
York’s JV team went 6-0 in duals and 4-1 in WSC Silver play. The Dukes won the West Chicago quad,
took second at the Glenbard East invitational and took second at the WSC Silver JV meet, missing the title by one point. York’s freshman team improved as the season wore on. “It was a building year,” Fite said of the freshman team. “We had 19 dedicated students with very little athletic/ badminton experience who made amazing gains in their abilities to compete on a team with a very tough badminton schedule.”
York took fourth at the 12-team Hinsdale South invitational where seven of the team’s eight positions medaled. The Dukes were runners-up at the Glenbard East invitational and finished in a first-place tie with Glenbrook North at their own York invitational.
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They lost to West Chicago on think an own goal in the last five minutes. That was against the state champs in the sectional finals. That’s a hell of a season if you ask me.”
York won the sectional title, winning 17.5 of a possible 18 points.
Anna Stangarone took first in the sin-
huge rah-rah person. I’m a little bit more of an individual players’ coach. I will pull kids to the side at practice and games and teach them.”
“Our whole team peaked to play its very best badminton leading into the conference tournament,” York coach Gena Fite said. “Many thirdgame wins and losses in the finals, mostly against Hinsdale Central. I love how tough all our players are. Our girls know each match, win or lose, strengthens their game and they are willing to grind against all their opponents. Every athlete on the varsity team has pulled out some amazing wins as a result of this tenacity.”
ble and transparent and communicate with everybody.”
Neidigh, White, Stangarone, Fennell, Fennell, Glosner, Emily White,
Timothy Christian boys track team excels at state meet Canada medals in 110 high hurdles at Eastern Illinois University
By Mike Miazga CORRESPONDENT
Timothy Christian boys track coach John Vander Kamp was thrilled with how the state qualifiers from his team performed in the recent Class 1A meet held in Charleston at Eastern Illinois University.
“All five state-qualifying events produced career bests in the state prelims,” he pointed out.
Nathan Canada was the lone Trojan to advance to the finals, doing so in the 110 high hurdles race. Canada ran a personal-best 15.67 in the 110 prelims to earn a spot in
Stopka will teach Spanish at York. He taught Spanish and one math class at St. Pat’s. “My philosophy is I am more of a players’ coach,” he said. “I have been a big Liverpool soccer supporter ever since 2015 when Jurgen Klopp came over and he’s known as a players’ coach. He’s kind of my coaching idol. I want to related to the players and form bonds with them. am more light-hearted and smiling. I like to have fun and joke with the kids. The goal is understanding where each player can be successful and the provide the best way possible to convey the knowledge they need at the position they play. I am not big
Stopka noted York has been doing conditioning drills and said the plan as of earlier last week was to start summer camp pending District 205 approval. “I have probably been able to meet 60 to 70 percent of the players so far,” he said. “If it does get approved that would be the start of our contact days with four days a week for three weeks straight. And even though the IHSA waived the blackout dates before the school year, we won’t take advantage of that. I’m pretty sure families have plans to do things before school starts. I’m the new guy and I’m not going to say you can’t go with your family. Go do it and enjoy it. This is a crazy and goofy time. You have to be accessi
the finals and was rated ninth going into the last day. In that 110 hurdles final, Canada bested his mark from the day before, running 15.56 and taking sixth. “Nathan really had an exceptional meet,” Vander Kamp said. Canada also ran in the 300 intermediate hurdles in Charleston. He ran a career-best 40.91 in the preliminaries but did not qualify for the finals. “He had a great preliminary 300 intermediate hurdle race,” Vander Kamp said. Canada’s sixthplace state finish is the program’s highest since Jerard Starr finished sixth in the same event at the 2021
state meet. Canada is the 24th Timothy boys individual track and field athlete to medal at state.
Timothy participated in three other events at state. The 3,200 relay team of Tyce Plaisier, Gio Molina, Rich Mezaros and Noah Laslo, which won the sectional title, finished 20th in the state with a time of 8:41.57. Plaisier also ran in the 800 in Charleston, where he finished 22nd with a time of 2:05.88. Laslo, a sectional runner-up in the 1,600 at the sectional, finished 25th at state with a time of 4:38.58 and did not advance to the finals.
As far as the future, Stopka wants York competing at a high level on a consistent basis. “The short-term goal is to restock and build up the team,” he said. “A large portion of last year’s team was seniors, especially the starting 11. We have to make sure the now juniors are up to the speed of the varsity level and are ready to contribute. We want to keep that pipeline going with the younger groups of players. We want to make sure we are not only competitive, but that we are competing for regionals, sectionals and supersectionals. It starts for me with this junior class that is coming in. We want them ready to go and setting the standard for these other classes that come in so they can also contribute right off the bat.”
Jones, a junior, broke the school’s single-season goalscoring record in a playoff game against St. Ignatius. In that game, Jones notched his 69th goal of the season, which surpassed Ryder Maston’s old mark of 68. Jones helped the York boys lacrosse team reach the sectional championship game this season.
“ I’m really excited to be able to play volleyball in college. It gives me something to do. I feel like I would be so bored without it because it has been such a big part of my life.”
– Bella Leslie
“ I
– Gena Fite York badminton coach
From 6:30-9 p.m., the Elmhurst Artists’ Guild will hold an artist’s reception of the Inspired By Warhol juried exhibition based on the works of pop artist Andy Warhol on display through Friday, July 28 in the EAG gallery inside the Elmhurst Art Museum. Event is free but RSVPs are required. To register, go to Eventbrite.com/e/ inspired-by-warhol-opening-reception-tickets-623277659257. Info: elmhurstartrmuseum.org.
• Beginning at 6:30 p.m., join the Elmhurst History Museum for the Elmhurst Community Ride. Join members of the Elmhurst Bicycle Club for a fun summer ride on low traffic streets throughout Elmhurst. Helmets are required. Ages 14 and younger must be accompanied by an adult. Meet in the Elmhurst History Museum parking lot. The museum will be open after hours from 5-6:30 p.m. to view the new exhibit, “The Bicycle: Two Wheels to Adventure,” prior to the ride. The event is free, but reservations are required. Visit elmhursthistory.org.
• At 6:30 p.m., the Spring Rd. Business Assn. hosts Music at the Gazebo on Spring by the Prairie Path. This week Ginger Road will perform. Bring a lawn chair or a blanket.
• From 7-10 p.m., the York High School Alumni Assn. is hosting a gathering of York alumni and friend qat the Bottle Theory Taproom at 5642 Spring Rd. Free, pay-as-yougo, no RSVP required.
Friday, June 23
• From 5:30-9 p.m., the Elmhurst YMCA, 211 W. 1st St., is hosting Y-Fest with yard games, DJ-curated music and food provided by sponsors Bacci Pizzeria, Elmhurst Brewing Company, Guac N Tacos, Krafted Burger Bar & Tap, Pazzi di Pizza and Pilot Pete’s. Adult tickets (must be 21+) are $50 (incl. two drink tickets).
Youth tickets are $15. Dollars raised at the event will support the Elmhurst and Greater LaGrange YMCAs Scholarship Fund. Tickets and info: elmhurstymca.org.
Saturday, June 24
From 1-4 p.m., the Elmhurst Art Museum will host a Family Day: Exploring Superheroes. Join others for superhero-themed hands-on art activities, inspired by the works found in Marvelocity: The Art of Alex Ross Explore your personal superpowers and create your own power cuffs and masks. Drop-in drawing with a costumed superhero will take place from 1-3 p.m. EAM members may attend free. Non-member tickets are available at the EAM web site at elmhurstartmuseum.org/
Sunday, June 25
Beginning at 2 p.m., the Elmhurst History Museum presents an adult lecture called “Cycling in Chicago.” manufacturing in the U.S., with two-thirds of all bicycles nationwide made here. Join avid cyclist and author of Cycling in Chicago, Chris McAuliffe for an intriguing look at the history of cycling in the area and its influence on recreational culture throughout Chicago’s history. Program take place in the Education Center. Reservations required. FREE to members, $5 non-members. To register, visit elmhursthistsory.org.
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New assistant superintendent of HR approved
Board members voted unanimously during the meeting to approve Joseph Schumacher as the district’s next assistant superintendent of human resources. He will replace Luke Pavone, who is departing from the district. Schumacher’s annual salary with District 205 will begin at $175,500. (See full story about Schumacher elsewhere in this issue.)
accepted
Board members voted unanimously during the meeting to approve a stipend for a person to oversee the district’s Special Olympics volleyball, basketball and track and field programs. The board also voted unanimously to approve a contract amendment with Rush Physical Therapy for athletic training services. Rush Physical Therapy was able to find two athletic trainers to provide services for York High School’s student-athletes during the 2022-23 school year. The
From June 26-July 10
The Elmhurst Area Branch of the American Association of University Women (AAUW) is seeking donations for its annual Used Book Sale which will be held July 13-16 at Christ United Methodist Church, 920 Swain Ave.
Donations can be dropped in bins at the church, at the Elmhurst Public Library, or at Courts Plus, 186 So. West Ave.
Tuesday, July 4
Registration is already open for the 18th annual Elmhurst Running Club “4 on the 4th” race, which steps off at 7:15 a.m. At 8:20 a.m., the one-kilometer Kids Race will step off for ages 5-12. To register, visit 4on4th. com.
Friday, July 7
The Summer Music at Bethel concert series will present 11-year-old violinist and singer Sylvia Pine in concert at 7 p.m. at Bethel United Church of Christ, 315 E. St. Charles Rd. in Elmhurst. Concert is free and open to the public.
Sunday, July 9
From 10 a.m.-4 p.m. the Elmhurst Garden Club (EGC) will host its 27th annual “An Afternoon in the Garden” Garden Walk and Boutique Faire featuring six glorious private gardens and one special birthday celebration public garden. Tickets will be sold online only at the web site: elmhurstgardenclub.org. From now until midnight on July 8, tickets will be $18 per person, after that date, tickets will be $23 each. Proceeds support scholarships.
Thursday-Sunday, July 13-16
The Elmhurst Branche of AAUW will hold its annual Used Book Sale at Christ United Methodist Church, 920 Swain Ave. Details to follow.
Elmhurst Farmers Market
Every Wednesday from now through October, the Elmhurst Farmers Market will be open from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the municipal lot on Vallette St., one half block east of York St. Fresh fruits, vegetables, flowers, honey, cheese, bread, hummus, much more. Info: elmhurstfarmersmarket.com.
Elmhurst History Museum
A new exhibit, The Bicycle: Two Wheels to Adventure, opens Saturday, June 9 and remains through Sept. 17. Learn about the many ways this 19th-century invention significantly impacted Chicagoland manufacturing, transportation, and infrastructure, and how the bicycle redefined an era of newfound leisure and independence. Info: elmhursthistory. org or call 630-833-1457.
Elmhurst Art Museum
Open now and remaining through Sunday, Aug. 20, Marvelocity; The Art of Alex Ross is on display at the Elmhurst Art Museum. Don’t miss the related exhibit in Wilder Park, which has life-sized Superheroes created by various artists. They will remain through July 31.
The Elmhurst Art Guild’s Inspired by Warhol opened Sunday, June 11 and will remain through Friday, July 28. There will be an artist’s reception on Friday, June 23 from 6:30-9 p.m. Info: elmhurstartmuseum.org or 630-834-0202.
Brian Edwin Wagner was a commendable leader who set an everlasting impression on his peers. Unfortunately, his tragic passing in an automobile accident during the summer prior to his senior year at York High School prevented him from achieving his dreams. Brian’s kindness and virtuous service always made a difference. He made the most of every opportunity in the short life he lived. His influence is reflected through the scholarship fund that bears his name.
Every year outstanding high school seniors are selected for the Brian E. Wagner Scholarship, each is granted $2500 towards their university tuition. They are commended for their distinguished accomplishments as emerging leaders in society. The BEWSF’s mission encourages students to improve their lives and the lives of others by exercising sound judgment and participating in volunteer programs.
athlete who works hard at academics, sports, and civic engagement. Brian’s life was sadly cut short, and I intend to work hard to keep his name and alive through: high morals, effort, and service to the BEWSF organization, family and God.”
Nick Zanoni, a graduate of Immaculate Conception Catholic Prep ICCP) was accepted to De Pauw University’s Management Fellows Program and will play on the golf team.
amended contract calls for 2.75 training positions, which will feature two trainers working 40 hours a week and one trainer working 30 hours a week. The additional position will offer three trainers at York during the busiest times of the week. The trainers will earn $22.72 per hour during the 2023-24 school year.
The board also voted unanimously to approve the purchase of the Schoology Learning Management System (LMS) for the 202324 school year at a cost of about $71,700. The Schoology system will provide interactive communication between students and teachers, teachers and parents/guardians, and teachers and administrators. The rollout for Schoology will be gradual during the upcoming school year.
It will initially be available to York students, their parents/guardians and teachers and administrators.
The board will hold its next regular meeting on July 25.
Thus far, the organization has donated more than $90,000. This cause reminds us that tomorrow is never guaranteed and that it is important to make every minute count.
All high school seniors can apply for the privilege to be named as one of next year’s honorees. Since this is a merit and character-based award, there is no GPA requirement. For more information, visit brianewagnerfund.org.
The three 2023 recipients will proudly pass the torch of perseverance to high school students that possess the exemplify the relentless work ethic as Brian Edwin Wagner. All will be starting their promising college careers this fall.
York High School grad Joseph Pagni has committed to Northern Iowa College as a health science major with the objective of becoming a physical therapist. Joe plans to play collegiate baseball and continue his service to Visitation Parish when returning to Elmhurst during semester breaks.
“I see many similarities between Brian and myself with regards to character and leadership,” he said. “I am a student-
“I am honored and privileged to receive Brian E. Wagner scholarship alongside these other deserving recipients,” he said. “I look forward to continuing Brian’s legacy at Depauw University and hope to showcase his work ethic, compassion, and his dedication to excellence. I am eager to find leadership roles: in the classroom, on the golf course and in volunteer opportunities.”
Scott Zaragoza, a graduate of ICCP, will attend the University of Wisconsin-Madison and major in Political Science in the fall. He plans to earn a law degree after completing undergrad studies.
“The BEWSF has helped me pursue my dream of pursing a higher education,” he said. “This scholarship has lifted some of the financial burdens that come along with pursuing a career in law. I am honored and motivated to live up to the legacy Brian has left behind. This is a true privilege, and I, along with my family, will be forever grateful.”
BEWSF Director Barbara Wagner-Lackey is especially proud of the organization’s recent efforts.
“We are so grateful for everyone who continues to support Brian’s scholarship foundation,” she said. “Since we awarded our first scholarships over a decade ago, we have been amazed at the talent and commitment of the students we’ve selected. Our 2023 are excellent examples of the person Brian was - kind, caring, fun, smart, giving, loving. They are making the best of their lives and positively impacting the lives of the people around them.”
