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1 • Thursday, July 30, 2020 - The Elmhurst Independent

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THURSDAY, JULY 30, 2020

Attempted murder suspect extradited back to Illinois

By Dee Longfellow FOR THE ELMHURST INDEPENDENT

In its July 9 edition, the Elmhurst Independent reported the story about 22-year-old Alec Gonzales, who had been arrested and charged with attempted first-degree murder for allegedly shooting a 55-year-old Elmhurst man who was out walking his dog.

Gonzales was also charged with one count of aggravated battery for discharging a firearm.

According to the complaint filed in DuPage County on June 25, it is alleged that on May 14 at approximately 8:52 p.m., Gonzales, “without legal justification and with the intent to kill … personally discharged a firearm, a Bushmaster AR-15 rifle, eight times in the direction of and striking” …(the victim)… “in the flank and grazing his scalp.”

Following the incident, Gonzales reportedly fled to Mesa, Ariz., where he also has a residence, besides in Elmhurst. On June 25, he was arrested by the Maricopa County Sheriff’s Department on an outstanding warrant issued by the Elmhurst Police Department and extradition proceedings began to return Gonzales to Illinois.

According to Elmhurst Police Chief Michael Ruth, Gonzales was brought back two weeks ago and is currently in the DuPage County jail, where he is being held without bond.

“The motive appears to be completely random,” Ruth said. “There was no reason whatsoever and that has everyone baffled. When we spoke with him, he opted not to talk to us, nor did he surrender any infor-

mation.”

Ruth believes there is a good chance for a conviction based on the investigation.

“We feel our evidence is strong against him,” he said. “We had a lot of community support, a lot of people have outdoor cameras and were able to provide footage so we could piece together a significant amount of evidence. For instance, we have him [on camera] driving to and from the shooting scene.”

The weapon was recovered, Ruth “We have to work with masks on, said. Gonzales allegedly dropped but like everyone else, we have to it in a garbage dumpster about two get used to putting it on and off,” he blocks away from the scene. said. “And of course, we keep up social distancing. But it’s difficult in a Chief offers domestic situation where people are department updates fighting and we have to intervene.”

Asked how the police force was The police chief said the departdoing amid the COVID-19 pandem- ment usually holds its daily roll calls ic, Ruth said a few officers tested in a room, sitting around tables, but positive and came down with the flu, now they are mostly done outdoors. but then recovered and bounced right He added that cars are being wiped back. down and cleaned more thoroughly

since the virus reared its head.

Ruth also mentioned that drug overdoses seem to be up during this time of COVID-19. He said that since July 1, there had been 14 overdoses, nine of which were heroin. He said Narcan® was used in seven of them.

“There was one fatality of a 26-year-old man, who overdosed on April 26,” Ruth said. “We tried to use

See MURDER, Page 4

SUBMITTED PHOTO Elmhurst Independent

Open for business

Heidi Maier couldn’t resist sending along this picture of a lemonade stand at Armitage and West avenues from Wednesday, July 22.

The kids had a lot of traffic and so many wonderful and generous neighbors stopped to support them. “It was a real happy day during these crazy times!” said Maier.

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2 • Thursday, July 30, 2020 - The Elmhurst Independent

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The Elmhurst Independent - Thursday, July 30, 2020 • 3

New COVID-19 community testing center in Bensenville VNA Health Care is opening a new COVID-19 community testing center at St. Alexis Catholic Church, 400 W. Wood Ave., in Bensenville.

Starting Tuesday, July 28, the testing center will offer COVID-19 testing by appointment only on Tuesdays and Thursdays between the hours of 1:30– 4:30 p.m.

Individuals will be assessed by a VNA doctor or nurse practitioner immediately prior to COVID-19 testing during the same appointment.

The facility will be serving all patients regardless of whether or not VNA accepts their insurance plan for COVID-19 services.

If a patient does not have insurance, the pre-test specimen, specimen collection and processing will be provided at no cost.

“As Mayor, it is important to me that Bensenville residents have access to everything they need in order to maintain their health and safety,” said Village President Frank DeSimone. “I am glad this facility will be opening in our community and that our residents will be able to easily access testing when and if they need it.”

To make appointments or inquire about further information, please call 630-892–4355 or 847-717-6455.

DuPage voters may now apply for Vote by Mail ballots According to a release from DuPage County, voters may now apply for Vote by Mail ballots for the Nov. 3, General Election. In compliance with new state election law in response to COVID-19, the DuPage County Clerk Election Division has increased the ballot application period by nearly seven weeks.

Registered voters are encouraged to securely apply online for Vote by Mail ballots at dupageco.org/Election/ VoteByMail/ All registered voters in DuPage County who do not apply for a ballot over the website will be mailed a Vote

by Mail application by Saturday, Aug. 1.

PLEASE NOTE: Mailing of the ballots to voters will not begin until Sept. 24, 2020. It may take four to five business days to receive a ballot after that date.

As another option to voting by mail, registered voters may choose instead to cast their ballot during Early Voting or at Election Day polling places.

Last month, the Illinois General Assembly passed SB 1863 expanding Vote by Mail as a voting method during the ongoing pandemic. On Tuesday, June 16, Gov. J.B. Pritzker signed the bill into law to ensure safe and active participation in the General Election.

Due to COVID-19, all 2020 General Election voters are encouraged to cast a ballot prior to Election Day, either by mail or during early voting.

An application is available from your local election authority (see above) or visit elections.il.gov/electionoperations/VotingByMail.aspx To register to vote or check your registration status, visit ova.elections. il.gov.

Shave and a haircut

C. J. ELONICH PHOTO Elmhurst Independent

The York Barber Shop on York Street remains open for business as Alio Gallo, pictured here, continues to cut hair. He reports that social distancing rules require masks and only one customer in the shop at a time.

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4 • Thursday, July 30, 2020 - The Elmhurst Independent

The elmhursT IndependenT Your Hometown Newspaper Locally owned and operated

Quigley addresses deployment of federal agents to Chicago; Raja assures displaced college students can vote

By Dee Longfellow FOR THE ELMHURST INDEPENDENT

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

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On Wednesday, July 22, U.S. Representative Mike Quigley (IL-05) released the following statement after President Trump announced plans to deploy federal agents to Chicago and other cities around the country: “Previous administrations have provided Chicago with federal law enforcement support to get illegal guns off our streets and help curb the cycle of violence. Similar assistance from the FBI, with the cooperation of the Mayor, would be welcomed.

“What we cannot and will not accept is the type of intervention we have seen in Portland, where unidentifiable DHS agents have attacked and detained residents for no reason. While I hope that this deployment of federal agents is different, the Trump administration must know that community trust in them is precariously low and violations of citizens’ rights in Chicago will not be tolerated. “We will take swift action to hold this administration accountable.”

Congressman Quigley priorities for Illinois included in funding package The U.S. House of Representatives on Friday, July 24, passed H.R. 7608 – the fiscal year 2021 State-Foreign Operations, Agriculture, Interior-Environment, and Military Construction-VA appropriations bills – which included initiatives championed by Representative Quigley (IL-05). As a member of the House Committee on Appropriations and Chairman of the Subcommittee on Financial Services & General Government (FSGG), Quigley fought to maintain our influence around the world and for the inclusion of strong support for families during this economic crisis.

“House Democrats on the Appropriations Committee have come together during this unprecedented time to deliver a series of funding bills that prioritize rebuilding our nation and strengthening our communities,” said Quigley. “This first funding package takes crucial steps to care for our veterans, support our allies abroad, and set up Chicago for a robust recovery from this pandemic.

“At a time when too many American families are struggling to keep food on their tables, I was proud to successfully fight for nutrition assistance funding to support Chicagoans and people around the country.

“I am also proud that this package includes robust funding to protect our environment and strengthen our resilience to the growing threat of climate change.”

Despite the Trump administration’s efforts to cut funding for State and Foreign Ops, the measure takes important steps to maintain and promote our nation’s influence around the world. Quigley worked with his colleagues on the Friends of Ireland Caucus to double the amount of funding provided to support peace-keeping programs in Northern Ireland and, as Co-Chair of the bipartisan Congressional Ukraine Caucus, he helped secure more than $445 million for bilateral assistance to Ukraine.

H.R. 7608 also supports our veterans by including $90 billion for VA medical care, including $313 million for suicide prevention outreach, $1.9 billion for homelessness assistance programs, and $661 million specifically for gender-specific care services for women.

Additionally, Quigley and his colleagues secured:

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COVID-19 updates for DuPage County As of 11 a.m. on Monday, July 26, there were 10,941 total cases among DuPage County residents, including 507 deaths. Since Sunday, there were 61 new cases and one death of a female in her 90s with COVID-19 reported.

Number of cases by town At press time, the DuPage Department of Health reported the following number of COVID-19 cases in our readership communities as follows: Addison 895, Bensenville 590, Elmhurst 498, Lombard 516, Oakbrook Terrace 33, Villa Park 304, Wood Dale 254.

And now for the good news…

Since March 24, 459 patients have been discharged from Elmhurst Hospital following treatment for confirmed cases of COVID-19.

• Murder

(Continued from front page) Narcan on the young man, but we which investigates our policies, and couldn’t bring him back.

I am happy to say that regarding “Overall, year to date, I’d say all the issues in other communities overdose incidents have probably that I read about, we’re ahead of the doubled.” curve,” he said. “We made some big changes in 2013 and 2014, so we’re Ruth weighs in on national already using procedures that other law enforcement issue police departments are just now putThe Independent asked how the ting into place.

Elmhurst Police Department was “We need to hold our people acfaring, considering the focus on law countable, and the people in the enforcement across the country late- community want transparency. The ly. community has a right to a capable “We have an accredited agency, and competent police force.”

• $13 million for monitoring, assessments, and research of fisheries in the Great Lakes Basin; • $68.277 billion for SNAP and $5.75 billion for WIC; • $3.22 billion for the National Park Service an increase of $55 million above the current funding level; • More than $25 billion for child nutrition programs; • The reversal of the President’s Global Gag Rule; and • The restoration of funds for the World Health Organization.

Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi cracks down on flavored e-cigarettes U. S. Representative Raja Krishnamoorthi has been calling on the FDA to crack down on products sold by the e-cigarette company Puff Bar. As a result, the FDA announced this week that it has notified a number of companies including Puff Bar to remove their flavored disposable e-cigarettes and youth-targeted e-liquids from the market.

“This is a significant victory in the fight against youth vaping,” the Congressman said. “Puff Bar quickly replaced JUUL as the e-cigarette device of choice among young people, and the company was illegally targeting its products directly to kids.

“Though Puff Bar already agreed to suspend all of their online sales in the U.S. last week, this move by the FDA goes one step further in the fight to keep these e-cigarettes out of the hands of our kids.”

New ‘Vote Act’ assures all students can vote, even if not on campus Last week, Congressman Raja joined with Senators Dick Durbin, Michael Bennet, Amy Klobuchar, and Cory Booker to introduce the National Emergency Student Vote Act. “As the coronavirus pandemic has forced many colleges and universities to close their campuses, this has left millions of students dislocated nationwide and has complicated questions about where and how they will vote,” Raja said.

The National Emergency Student Vote Act ensures that even if students are not on campus this fall, colleges

and universities would still have to share resources to help them register to vote, request absentee ballots, and exercise their different options to vote depending on their preference and eligibility.

Vaccine bill holds FDA accountable; safety, efficacy more important than speed Later this week, Congressman Raja said he would be introducing a bill to require the FDA to solicit and consider advice from the Vaccines and Related Biological Products Advisory Committee (VRBPAC) before licensing or authorizing any COVID-19 vaccine.

“As the urgency of the coronavirus crisis has placed political pressure on the FDA to approve a COVID-19 vaccine quickly, concerns have been raised that the FDA might approve a vaccine before its safety and efficacy is fully established,” he said. “Furthermore, the perception of this hastiness could erode public confidence in any vaccine that is approved and could lead to a substantial portion of the American population refusing to be inoculated. This would be extremely detrimental to the ultimate goal of developing herd immunity.”

Congressman Raja is introducing the “Expeditious Vaccine Advice on Legitimate, Unbiased, Apolitical, and Technical Expertise Act,” or the “EVALUATE Act.” “My bill would require the FDA to first consider advice from VRBPAC before licensing or authorizing any potential COVID-19 vaccine,” Raja said.

“Such advice would have to include information on the safety and efficacy of the vaccine, whether studies are required before authorization, whether trials were of sufficient size, whether diverse populations were included in these studies, and whether the FDA’s proposed license or authorization contains requirements to track adverse health consequences and changes in the vaccine’s effectiveness for at least a year.

“The urgency of developing a vaccine to COVID-19 is paramount but we should never sacrifice quality for speed. We must ensure that any vaccine is safe and effective before it is approved and that the American people can put their trust in it.”

After offensive video, County Board candidate withdraws from race

By Dee Longfellow FOR THE ELMHURST INDEPENDENT

Late Monday, the Independent learned that a 22-year-old Democratic candidate for the DuPage County Board in District 4 would be withdrawing from the race due to a video that went viral and drew national attention.

Hadiya Afzal was witnessed on Twitter laughing at a video that shows a law enforcement official, apparently at a protest rally, getting hit in the face with some kind of projectile. In her tweet, she wrote: I’ve been watching this [video] on repeat for 15 minutes and laughing every single time.”

Her tweet garnered national attention when Texas Sen. Ted Cruz put his own message on Twitter, calling her behavior “hateful and sick.” Afzal issued another statement via Twitter on Sunday night, admitting the post was in poor taste and “doesn’t reflect the values I was raised with and hold dear.”

Afzal went on to claim she did not condone violence and had been “calling for policy changes to our policing problems today.” She said she is Muslim and wears a hijab and that she had been the target of numerous threats herself to the point she was often concerned with her own safety and that of her family.

The Elmhurst Independent - Thursday, July 30, 2020 • 5

West Nile activity in DuPage County prompts health advisory

DuPage County offers energy assistance through LIHEAP DuPage County Community Services will accept applications for the annual Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) beginning July 27 until June 30, 2021, or until funds are depleted.

Households in need of energy assistance, especially those with disconnection notices, high past due balances, and the general population who have been impacted by wage fluctuations due to COVID-19 are encouraged to apply. Propane customers are strongly encouraged to apply in August when fuel prices are lowest.

If your household’s combined gross income for the prior 30 days beginning with the date of the application is at or below 200 percent of the federal poverty level, you may be eligible to receive assistance. A single-person household can qualify for the program with a monthly gross income of up to

$2,127; a two-person household up to $2,873; and a family of four can earn up to $4,367. Benefits are paid directly to the utilities on behalf of eligible households.

The PIPP Program (Percentage of Income Payment Plan) will also be offered this program year to ComEd and Nicor Gas customers. PIPP applications will be taken on a first-come, first-served basis and are based on 150 percent of the federal poverty level. Applications for PIPP will be taken from Sept. 1 until March 31, 2021, or until funding is exhausted. A single-person household can qualify for the PIPP Program with a monthly gross income of up to $1,595; a two-person household up to $2,155; and a family of four can earn up to $3,275. Customers must be able to provide the following documentation when applying for assistance: • Social Security Cards for all house-

hold members; • Proof of gross income from all household members for the 30-day period beginning with the date of application; • Current heat and electric bills issued within the last 30 days (if they pay for the energy directly); and • If you rent, your lease.

For more information, including where you can apply, or to schedule an appointment, DuPage County residents may call (630) 407-6500, (800) 9429412 (toll-free) or visit www.dupageco.org.

Applications are taken based on a first-come, first-serve basis until funding is exhausted.

For a complete listing of LIHEAP’s local administering agencies and additional information about the program, visit liheapillinois.com or call the tollfree hotline at (877) 411-WARM.

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Saturday, September 18, 2021 1:00 p.m.-6:00 p.m., Early Entry at Noon On the Grounds at

Elmhurst History Museum More than 100 Craft Brews, Ciders, Hard Seltzers and Music Rain or Shine Presented by Elmhurst Heritage Foundation A Fundraiser Benefitting Programs and Exhibits at the Elmhurst History Museum and the Churchville One-Room Schoolhouse www.elmhurstcraftbeerfest.com

• Dawn to Dusk: Wear repellent outdoors during these prime times for mosquito activity.

Residents should check the Personal Protection Index (PPI) on the DuPage County Health Department’s website for the current WNV activity. To view the PPI page, visit dupagehealth. org/243/Personal-Protection-Index.

The PPI ranges in risk level from zero-to-three, with zero being no activity and three announcing multiple human cases of WNV in DuPage County.

The current level is 1: “Localized abundance of active mosquitoes, climate conditions favorable for development of virus.” The recommended

TAE FU

actions: • Drain those items that collect standing water around your home, yard or business. Scrub and refill pet water dishes and bird baths regularly.

• Defend: Use an insect repellent containing DEET when outdoors and reapply according to directions.

The PPI is updated every Wednesday at 3 p.m. throughout the WNV season by the Health Department’s vector-borne disease surveillance experts.

WNV activity generally decreases in the fall when cooler temperatures arrive and especially after the first frost of the season.

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and prevent mosquitoes from breeding around your home by following the “4 Ds of Defense”: • Drain: Drain items that collect standing water around your home, yard or business. Scrub and refill pet water dishes and bird baths regularly.

• Defend: Use an insect repellent containing DEET when outdoors and reapply according to directions.

• Dress: Wear long pants, long sleeves and closed-toe shoes when outside to cover the skin.

ELMHURST CRAFT BEER FEST -COVID 19 UPDATE “Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much” -- Helen Keller

Dear Craft Beer Fest Enthusiasts, We hope you are all doing well, staying safe and hanging in there with the onset of COVID-19.

As we look ahead for a return to normal, we want you to know that the Elmhurst Heritage Foundation’s 6th Annual Elmhurst Craft Beer Fest on September 19, 2020 has been postponed until September 18, 2021. Be sure to mark your calendar!

As we prepare for the future, we are looking back and thanking our valued sponsors and brewers for making the event a community favorite. To that end, we will continue to recognize and celebrate our sponsors and brewers on our website and social media platforms, and encourage you to support them. We hope that you are already following us on Facebook and viewing our website at elmhurstcraftbeerfest.com for the latest information. Also, check out the Elmhurst Heritage Foundation’s website: elmhurstheritagefoundation.org for current and upcoming events.

We hope we can all celebrate on the grounds of the Elmhurst History Museum on September 18, 2021 with music, craft beer and good cheer. Together, let us raise a glass to a bright future! Thank you for your continued support! Stay healthy and strong!

Cheers!

The Elmhurst Craft Beer Fest Committee Raising funds for the Elmhurst History Museum & Churchville One-Room Schoolhouse Elmhurst Heritage Foundation

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weather, mosquitoes that carry West Nile virus (primarily Culex mosquitoes) breed in stagnant water, like street catch basins and ditches, and they multiply rapidly.

“As people spend more time outdoors to physically distance due to COVID-19 we are reminding everyone to protect yourself and your family from mosquitoes and West Nile virus,” said Karen Ayala, Health Department Executive Director.

Protect yourself, protect your family

An increase in mosquito samples from Naperville testing positive for West Nile virus (WNV) has the DuPage County Health Department reminding residents to protect themselves from mosquito bites and the risk of contracting WNV. These samples represent the first positive test of WNV in mosquitoes in DuPage County this year.

The key factors in determining the degree of West Nile virus activity are temperatures and rainfall. In hot, dry

6 • Thursday, July 30, 2020 - The Elmhurst Independent

Police beat

The Elmhurst Police Department recently reported the following arrests and citations.

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

unauthorized person to drive subsequent to a traffic stop near York and Church at around 7:03 p.m.

Theft/burglary/attempted theft or burglary/identity theft/fraud/forgery/ deceptive practice/ obstruction/robbery

Criminal damage, criminal trespass July 17 James A. Hulme, 35, of Melrose Park, was charged with criminal trespass to a vehicle and driving while license revoked in the 700 block of N. York at around 9:39 p.m. A complainant told police that he heard a truck’s engine start and observed Hulme allegedly driving the vehicle. The victim related that suspect is an employee, but does not have permission to enter or drive the vehicle.

Domestic battery, domestic incident, disorderly conduct, damage to property, disturbance July 16 Maria Miller, 50, of Elmhurst, was issued a citation for disorderly conduct-false police report in the 400 block of N. Oaklawn at around 6:10 a.m. Police said that subsequent to a stolen vehicle crash investigation, officers learned that a juvenile suspect had taken his mother’s car without her permission and struck a light pole while driving it. The juvenile was issued citations for no valid driver’s license and failure to give information after striking property. Police said Miller was cited for initially claiming the car was stolen.

DUI, DUI-drugs July 16 Rosario Davalos Morales, 44, of Cicero, was charged with DUI, improper lane us-

CALL 800-222-TIPS age and no insurance near Route 83 and St. Charles at around 10:58 p.m.

July 7 Samantha Wilson, 32, of Lombard, was charged with DUI-drugs, aggravated battery and possession of adult use cannabis in a vehicle near Route 83 and St. Charles at around 10:46 a.m. Police said that subsequent to a call for a vehicle off the roadway with Wilson, the driver, slumped at the wheel, the driver was found to be DUI-drugs. During the investigation, a struggle ensued. Police said Wilson bit the reporting officer’s left forearm.

Possession of cannabis, possession of drug paraphernalia, possession of a controlled substance

July 17 Identity theft was reported in the 100 block of E. Schiller at around 2:08 p.m. An officer met with the victim who stated an unknown suspect(s) accessed her bank accounts and withdrew cash from three accounts. The victim contacted the bank and reported the fraudulent transactions and she was advised the money would be returned to the accounts.

July 15-July 17 A vehicle was reported stolen at an auto dealership in the 300 block of W. Grand. A The complainant told police that an unknown suspect applied for and purchased a vehicle online through the company’s website. The company delivered the vehicle to an unknown area in Chicago and completed the transaction with the suspect. Upon further review of the documents, the manager found inconsistencies and fraudulent documentation.

July 19 Mark McCoy, 38, of Orland Park, a passenger in a vehicle, was charged with possession of cannabis in a vehicle subsequent to a traffic stop near Route 83 and I-290 at around 10:04 a.m.

July 16 Forgery was reported in the 300 block of N. Elm at around 2:59 p.m. A reporting officer met with the victim who received notification of numerous unauthorized withdrawals using his signature. The victim discovered property and cash were missing from a drawer. The victim believed the suspect may have taken it.

This case is pending investigation

July 18 Juliana Mora, 18, of Berkeley, was issued citations for unlawful possession of cannabis by the driver, no valid license, and obstructed driver’s view, while Armando Mora, 21, of Berkeley, a passenger in the vehicle, was issued citations for unlawful possession of cannabis by the passenger and permitting an

July 9-July 16 Identity theft was reported in the 300 block of Alexander. A victim told police that an unknown suspect(s) used her personal information to fraudulently apply for unemployment benefits sometime between the above dates.

She received an Illinois Department of Employment Securities KeyBank debit card in

the mail, which alerted her to the identity theft.

The officer provided the victim with information on how to protect herself against identity theft.

July 14-July 15 Burglary to a vehicle was reported in the 100 block of McKinley. A victim told police that an unknown suspect(s) entered his unlocked Nissan Rogue and stole his garage door opener and a pair of Ray-Ban sunglasses sometime between the above dates.

July 13 Identity theft was reported in the 100 block of E. Oneida at around 12:06 p.m. A victim told police that an unknown suspect used her personal information to apply for unemployment benefits. She was mailed an Illinois Department of Employment Security KeyBank debit card and never applied for unemployment benefits. She further advised the suspect fraudulently purchased a car seat using her Amazon account. The reporting officer provided the victim with information on how to protect herself against identity theft.

July 4 Identity theft was reported in the 400 block of E. Allison at around 10:20 a.m. A complainant told police that he received a letter regarding unemployment benefits for which he did not apply. The complainant contacted the Illinois Department of Employment Services to inform them of the letter. He also contacted his bank and froze his credit cards as a precaution. No money was lost and the complainant disposed of the letter

Warrant arrest

July 19 Police said Jessica Lawrence, 28, of Chicago, was found to have a valid warrant out of the DuPage County Sheriff’s Office subsequent to a vehicle crash in the 500 block of W. Grand at around 9:20 p.m.

July 17 Police said that subsequent to a traffic stop near North and Railroad at around 8:04 p.m., the driver of the vehicle, William E. Seaton, 44, of Oswego, was found to have an active warrant from the Aurora Police Department.

Man gets seven years for crash that killed 17-year-old Downers Grove North student Berlin disagrees with judge’s lenient sentence; plans to propose legislation

On Wednesday, July 22, DuPage County State’s Attorney Robert Berlin announced that, following a lengthy sentencing hearing, a Naperville man had been sentenced to seven years in the Illinois Department of Corrections (IDOC) for striking 17-year-old Elizabeth Dunlap with his car and killing her in February, 2019.

On Jan. 9, 2020, Joseph Kucharski, 52, with a last known address in Naperville, entered a blind plea of guilty (which means there was no agreement on sentencing with the State) to one count of Aggravated DUI-Alcohol/ Drugs Causing Death, a Class 2 Felony, and one count of Reckless Homicide, a Class 3 Felony, in front of Judge Alex McGimpsey, who handed down the sentence. Under current Illinois law, the maximum penalty for Aggravated DUI-Alcohol/Drugs Causing

Death is 14 years in the IDOC, which the State had requested.

About the incident On Feb. 19, 2019, at approximately 10:55 a.m., the Downers Grove Police Department responded to a report of a person, later identified as Downers Grove North student Elizabeth Dunlap, struck by a vehicle in the intersection of Main and Grant Streets, just steps away from the main entrance to Downers Grove North High School.

An investigation into the incident revealed that Dunlap was on her way to school crossing Main St. within the marked crosswalk, in conjunction with the “Walk” signal, when she was struck by a vehicle traveling northbound in the southbound lanes on Main Street.

The investigation further revealed that the vehicle, driven by Kucharski, entered the intersection at Grant Street

against a red light. At the time of the crash, Kucharski had a blood alcohol content of 0.031 and exhibited signs of impairment when interviewed by police. Further investigation revealed that Kucharski had alcohol, Xanax® and cocaine in his system. Authorities also found two crack pipes, crack cocaine and other drugs as well as vodka and beer at a hotel room in which Kucharski was staying. In his car authorities found Xanax, Benadryl and suboxone.

Elizabeth Dunlap suffered life-threatening injuries and was pronounced dead from her injuries on Friday, Feb. 22.

That same day, Judge Robert Miller issued a $5 million arrest warrant for Kucharski. Four days later, on Feb. 26, Kucharski appeared in Bond Court where bond was set in the amount of

$750,000 with 10% to apply. On May 15, 2019, Kucharski posted the necessary $75,000, or 10%, of his bond and was released from custody.

Berlin respects judge but hoped for tougher sentence “On Feb. 19, 2019, Joseph Kucharski’s incredibly reckless actions killed 17-year-old Beth Dunlap,” Berlin said.

“This senseless loss of such a young, promising life also deeply wounded the entire community, hitting the students and staff at Downers Grove North High School, where Beth was a standout member of the student body, particularly hard. I cannot even begin to imagine the pain and suffering Beth’s family and friends have endured since her passing – a pain they will undoubtedly carry with them for the rest of their lives. It is my sincerest

hope that those who loved Beth will someday be able to remember her not only with a heavy heart and a tear in their eye but with a smile on their face.

“While I respect the judge’s decision, this case warranted the maximum punishment of 14 years. This tragic case also exposed what I believe to be inadequate sentencing parameters available to the Court that do not equate the loss with the punishment.

Just as those working in construction zones rightfully enjoy enhanced penalties the law provides, I believe our children deserve similar, if not stronger, protections and that is why I will be introducing legislation in Beth’s honor that will further protect our children when going to and leaving school.”

Kucharski will be required to serve 85% of his sentence before being eligible for parole.

The Elmhurst Independent - Thursday, July 30, 2020 • 7

GOP lawmakers’ call for ComEd hearings rebuffed Key Democrat agrees only to legislation to prevent future corruption CAPITOL NEWS ILLINOIS

The chairwoman of the Illinois House Energy and Environment Committee said last week she will not hold hearings to examine what impact Commonwealth Edison’s lobbying and bribery practices have had on utility ratepayers, rebuffing a request from two Republican lawmakers.

Instead, Rep. Ann Williams, D-Chicago, said in a statement that she plans to introduce “tough new amendments” to the proposed Clean Energy Jobs Act next year “to ensure that we hold utilities accountable and take the politics out of setting fair energy rates.”

“A legislative committee is not the appropriate place to investigate a criminal matter currently under the jurisdiction of the U.S. Attorney’s office,” Williams said last week. “As was the precedent during prior corruption cases, the House Energy and Environment (committee) will not hold hearings that could impede and interfere with an ongoing federal investigation.”

That statement came in response to a letter July 20 from Republican Reps.

David Welter, of Morris, and Keith Wheeler, of Oswego, to Williams and Rep. Larry Walsh, D-Joliet, chair of the House Public Utilities Committee.

That letter requested the two committees hold joint investigative hearings.

Welter is the Republican spokesman on the Energy and Environment Committee. Wheeler is the Republican spokesman on the Public Utilities Committee.

Their letter was in reaction to ComEd’s public admission on Friday, July 17, that between 2011 and 2019, it awarded lobbying jobs and subcontracts to associates of House Speaker Michael Madigan as part of an effort to gain Madigan’s support for legislation beneficial to the utility.

That admission was made in a federal court in what is called a “deferred prosecution agreement,” in which the U.S. Attorney’s office agreed not to pursue prosecution of bribery charges against the company in exchange for ComEd paying a $200 million fine and agreeing to cooperate with the ongoing investigation.

Madigan has not been charged and has denied any wrongdoing.

But Welter and Wheeler argued that there is more at stake in the scandal than criminal matters.

“While the U.S. Attorney’s office investigated criminal activity during the time period in question related to ComEd’s activities to influence and reward ‘Public Official A’ in order to receive passage of legislation favor-

“

We can no longer allow corporate profits to come before efforts to create affordable and clean energy sources.”

– Rep. Ann Williams D-Chicago

able to the utility, the issue of what impact ComEd’s activities had on ratepayers and state policy needs to be investigated,” they stated in their letter.

According to people familiar with the investigation, federal prosecutors have focused on at least two pieces of legislation.

One of those is the Energy Infrastructure Modernization Act of 2011, also known as the “Smart Grid” bill, which allowed public utilities to recover the cost of infrastructure improvements through a formula, without review by the Illinois Commerce

Elmhurst Community Programs for August

Programs air on Comcast Channel 6 and AT&T U-Verse Channel 99 Programs may also be found at ElmhurstTV.com

Elmhurst Heritage Foundation Presents “2018 Elmhurst Vintage Baseball Game Highlights” Host & Umpire: Dave Oberg, Executive Director, Elmhurst History Museum Elmhurst Our Kind of Town #1408 Sundays at 5 p.m.

Elmhurst TV Archives Presentation Fridays at 6 p.m.

York Community High School Performing Arts De- Elmhurst Our Kind of Town #1439 partment Elmhurst TV Archives Presentation 33rd Annual Collage Concert 2018 Elmhurst Cycling Classic Highlights Sundays at 7 p.m.

Hosts: Ken Bartels & John Quigley Tuesdays at 5 p.m.

Mondays at 6 p.m.

Elmhurst Our Kind of Town #1449 Saturdays at 5 p.m.

Elmhurst TV Archives Presentation Elmhurst PSA loop Elmhurst Symphony Orchestra Presents “French ConVarious announcements from the City of Elmhurst nections” Wednesdays at 5 p.m.

Music Director & Conductor: Stephen Alltop City Council meetings air Wednesdays at 12 noon and Thursdays at 5 p.m.

Thursdays 7 p.m.

Saturdays at 7 p.m.

School District #205 Board meetings air on Thursdays Elmhurst Our Kind of Town #1438 2 p.m.

Elmhurst TV Archives Presentation www.ElmhurstTV.com

Top crime news Battery alleged at fitness center Police were dispatched to a fitness facility in the 600 block of N. York at around 5:02 p.m. on July 16 on the report of a battery that had just occurred. The victim told police that he observed the suspect upstairs, standing in front of his girlfriend as he was extending his middle finger and swore at her.

The suspect came downstairs, approached the victim, slapped him in the face with an open hand, and left the scene in the suspect vehicle. This case is pending investigation.

Suspect in restaurant causes scene, throws chairs On July 17, a complainant at a restaurant in the 500 block of W. Lake told police at around 8:09 p.m. that a suspect came into the business, harassed an employee, caused a scene in front of customers and threw chairs on the ground. No property was damaged, but the complainant asked the officer to serve the subject with a no-trespass notice.

Victim claims boyfriend pulled hair, grabbed her by neck An 18-year-old Lombard man was charged with domestic battery, no valid driver’s license and speeding near North and Willow at around 11:59 p.m. on July 16.

Police said that subsequent to a traffic stop for speeding, an officer observed the passenger was crying and had several pieces of hair lying across her lap. The victim related that her boyfriend, the suspect, pulled her hair and grabbed her by the neck.

Pharmacist suspects forgery when doctors’ signatures don’t match On July 14, forgery was reported at an orthopedic specialist in the 300 block of W. Butterfield at around 3:34 p.m. A complainant told police she was notified by a pharmacy that the suspect presented a prescription for Hydrocodone and the doctor’s signature did not match the signature they had on file. The complainant advised the pharmacy that they did not issue the prescription. Investigation pending.

Commission.

It passed both chambers of the General Assembly over the veto of thenGov. Pat Quinn, a Democrat.

Also of interest is a massive energy bill passed in 2016 known as the Future Energy Jobs Act in which the state agreed to bail out two nuclear power plants owned by ComEd’s parent company Excelon by paying the company $235 million a year for 10 years to keep the plants open, with the money coming from a surcharge on customers’ electric bills.

More recently, lawmakers have been debating what is called the Clean Energy Jobs Act—Senate Bill 2132 and House Bill 3624—which is aimed at moving Illinois to 100 percent renewable energy for electricity production by 2050.

But that bill has stalled in the General Assembly partly because, according to some observers, it could provide benefits to ComEd at a time when the company’s lobbying practices were the subject of federal investigations.

Williams, who is the lead House sponsor of the Clean Energy Jobs act, said in an open letter to her colleagues July 23 that she is working on amendments to that bill, including one

that would end the automatic, formula-generated rate increases allowed under the 2011 Smart Grid bill.

“The era of utilities, nuclear and fossil fuel industries, and other big business groups dictating energy policy in Illinois are over,” she said. “We can no longer allow corporate profits to come before efforts to create affordable and clean energy sources.”

In a separate statement July 23, Welter said he had spoken again with Williams in hopes of changing her mind about holding investigative hearings. He said that while there is bipartisan support for working on legislation to prevent future corrupt lobbying practices, he was disappointed that Democratic leaders were not willing to investigate the impact that past practices have had on ratepayers.

“I disagree that doing so would somehow ‘impede or interfere with an ongoing federal investigation,’ because ComEd has already agreed to pay $200 million to defer further prosecution,” he said. “The fact is, both the City of Chicago and the Illinois Commerce Commission plan to hold hearings of their own and call ComEd officials to testify. Why not Mike Madigan’s House of Representatives?”

Public Notices NOTICE CERTIFICATE NO. 77583 was filed in the office of the County Clerk of DuPage County on JUNE 29, 2020, wherein the business firm of ER HEATING & COOLING LOCATED AT 628 WILLOW WOOD DRIVE, APT 306, CAROL STREAM, IL 60188 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) EFREN RAMOS-GONZALEZ, HOME ADDRESS 628 WILLOW WOOD DRIVE APT 306, CAROL STREAM, IL 60188.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and Official Seal at my office in Wheaton, Illinois, this 29TH day of JUNE, A.D. 2020.

JEAN KACZMAREK Jean Kaczmarek DuPage County Clerk (OFFICIAL SEAL) (Published in The Elmhurst Independent July 16, 23 & 30, 2020) 377423 NOTICE CERTIFICATE NO. 77655 was filed in the office of the County Clerk of DuPage County on JULY 20, 2020, wherein the business firm of “I GOT YOUR BACK” YOUTH SERVICES INITIATIVE LOCATED AT 16W630 MOCKINGBIRD LANE, UNIT 20A, WILLOWBROOK, IL 60527 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) SYDNEY A. BARREN, HOME ADDRESS 16W630 MOCKINGBIRD LANE, WILLOWBROOK, IL 60527.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and Official Seal at my office in Wheaton, Illinois, this 20TH day of JULY, A.D. 2020.

JEAN KACZMAREK Jean Kaczmarek DuPage County Clerk (OFFICIAL SEAL) (Published in The Elmhurst Independent July 30, Aug. 6 & 13, 2020) 378137

SPECIAL TOWNSHIP MEETING ============================= NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN To the legal voters, residents of the Township of York, in the County of DuPage, and State of Illinois, that a SPECIAL TOWNSHIP MEETING of said Township will take place on: AUGUST 11, 2020 at the hour of 7:00 o’clock P.M. in the auditorium of the York Township Offices, 1502 S. Meyers Road, Lombard, IL 60148 The purpose of said meeting is to authorize the Sale of York Road Property.

PUBLISHED BY: DANIEL J. KORDIK Town Clerk (Published in the Elmhurst Independent, Addison Independent, Bensenville Independent & Villa Park Review July 30, 2020) 378265

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8 • Thursday, July 30, 2020 - The Elmhurst Independent

The Elmhurst Independent

Viewpoint

July 30, 2020 • 8

Glowiak Hilton urges residents to report unemployment fraud With rising cases of attempted unemployment fraud, State Senator Suzy Glowiak Hilton (D-Western Springs) warned residents to contact the Illinois Department of Employment Security (IDES) if they receive benefit cards they did not apply for.

“Scammers are taking advantage of this crisis and trying to line their pockets with money meant to help working families,” Glowiak Hilton said. “If you receive an unemployment benefit card in the mail and did not apply, do not activate it and please report it to IDES.” Last week, residents across the state reported receiving KeyBank debit cards and unemployment letters in the mail even though they did not apply. IDES said that individuals

who received these mailings may be victims of identity theft or fraud. The target of this fraud is suspected to be the federal Pandemic Unemployment Assistance program. Ambiguous guidelines for the program and hasty development may have left the program vulnerable to scammers.

Individuals who received these cards in the mail should not activate the debit card under any circumstances and should instead immediately contact IDES at 800-814-0513 to report identity theft. Victims of fraud should also review their credit reports for possible suspicious activity.

(Editor’s note: This was received from the office of Suzy Glowiak Hilton.)

Slices of life

Cullerton: new Are there walleye in heaven? grant to help recruit qualified educators

As weird as it may sound, this is a question I’ve pondered lately.

I’m willing to take a bet that very few reading this have thought about walleye (as in the fish) being in heaven. But you aren’t the daughter of my dad.

For those not familiar with walleye, they are a revered fish akin to the lobster of Minnesota (as well as other states). When you visit a Maine restaurant you order lobster; when you visit Minnesota you order

By

JILL PERTLER Contributor

walleye.

My dad knows all about walleye – and catching them. He mastered the art. He grew up on a Minnesota

lake that had plenty of walleye and he learned right then and there how to bring them into the boat and bring them home for dinner. He traveled throughout the state to various lakes and rivers, catching walleye wherever he went. You could say it was his life’s passion (or one of them at least) and you’d be right.

He’s known for his walleye prowess; for years his moniker has

See SLICES, Page 9

Letter to the editor

Reader urges focus on students, as stakeholders will never agree I appreciate your comprehensive coverage of how District 205 is handling the new school year. There is little doubt that the administration and the school board have been put in a difficult position with various stakeholders having different interests and opinions.

The Governor and the Elmhurst Teachers Council have been very clear that it will be too dangerous to open the schools or have any extracurricular activities in the Fall semester. A small but vocal minority of parents and students agree with this perspective.

A large majority of other stakeholders including most taxpayers, most students and most parents favor in-person learning and school activities to begin at the start of the school year. The American Academy of Pediatrics and the CDC endorse this position.

It seems unlikely that there will be a solution that will satisfy everyone. The proposed hybrid schedule proves this point as both sides seem to hate it. A better solution would be to let the interested parties choose their own path.

Parents, students and teachers who have concerns about the safety of being around other people need to be respected. A better stay-at-home learning platform can be established to serve this group. It is a distinct possibility this virus will be around for years to come so we have to be certain that there are appropriate resources to create an enduring remote learning program.

On the flip side, the vast majority who believe that in-person learning and extracurricular activities are essential to a student’s development also need to be accommodated and respected. It is ironic that this point

of view is controversial in some circles. Why are so many resources devoted to in-person public education and extracurriculars if they are not essential? Before the crisis, everyone would have agreed these activities were indispensable.

We all understand that local decisions can be overridden by those who have more power and control such as the Governor, ISBE, and the Elmhurst Teachers Council. That doesn’t absolve the local school board or district administration from crafting a plan on the behalf of the majority who embrace in-person instruction.

It is time for district leaders to put 100 percent of their focus on the students rather than trying to appease other stakeholders. If powerful special interest groups and politicians overrule, at least we will know who is to blame.

Jim Feehery

To encourage more qualified people to enter the education field, State Senator Tom Cullerton (D-Villa Park) is excited to announce seven DuPage County schools will receive Education Career Pathways Grants from the Illinois State Board of Education.

“Our teachers train the future leaders of our great state,” Cullerton said. “This grant will help DuPage County schools recruit qualified and passionate teachers to guide and educate our children.”

The DuPage Area Occupational Education System #090 has been awarded $248,997, which will be distributed to seven high schools in DuPage County to assist these schools in developing Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs to prepare students for careers in education. Among this group Addison Trail High School, Willowbrook High School and Lake Park High School are set to receive this assistance.

CTE programs help students develop technical and employability skills while strengthening their core academic abilities to enable them to pursue higher education opportunities and succeed in the workforce. Students in CTE programs also have the opportunity to earn dual credit or credentials and certifications from partner institutions prior to high school graduation.

The programs will place a special focus on recruiting underrepresented students into education careers to help meet the high demand for teachers of color across Illinois.

“Schools with educators from diverse backgrounds support students’ cultural identities and enrich the learning atmosphere for all children,” Cullerton said. “We must continue to implement programs that encourage diversity and inclusion at every stage of our students’ lives.”

Nearly $2 million in total funding has been awarded to 11 Education for Employment Systems statewide to recruit and support future educators at 62 high schools and vocational centers.

For a full list of grant recipients or to learn more about career and college readiness programs in Illinois, visit www.ISBE.net/CTE. (Editor’s. note: This was received from the office of State Sen. Tom Cullerton.)

Obituaries

Marsha Raffen, 64 Marsha S. Raffen Nee Johnson, been Walleye Joe. He has a hat 64, of Elmhurst, passed away peaceproclaiming this nickname and a fully on July 17, 2020, after a foursweatshirt that simply says, “Shut up year courageous battle with cancer. and fish.”

Beloved wife of the late Tim Raffen; For most of my adult life, I never loving mother of Chris (Tammy) had to purchase walleye because my Raffen, the late Melissa Raffen, dad caught enough for both of us. He and Kim (Jason) Raffen. Cherished fished so often – and caught his limit grandmother of Hailey, Aubry and – that he was able to share with me.

Bryce. Dear daughter of the late (It helped my cause that my mom Mary Louise and Warren Johnson. didn’t partake of the delicacy.) It truly Loving sister of Sheryl Welsch, Kip was a treat, I knew, but I probably (Pattie) Johnson and the late Judy didn’t sufficiently appreciate my fully (Brad) Pauling. Loved by many stocked freezer or the delicious taste nieces and nephews. A kind friend to of the sweet, flaky white fish. all. She will always be remembered He doesn’t fish anymore. Health by her compassion, sense of humor, and other aging issues have made it her love of animals, and her many a part of his past. He always used to dedicated years to serve the disabled. tell me, “It’s hell getting old,” and he A Celebration of Life will be held at was right.

And then he’d follow that up with, “But it sure beats the alternative,” and he was right.

At 89 he’s living the alternative.

His days have slowed.

He no longer fishes for walleye, but he’s more than happy to talk about them. Some days his memory isn’t the best, but he remembers his lifelong relationship with the elusive fish. When I visit, it is one of the few topics I can count on to get his attention. Even though I know little to nothing about the art of fishing I know enough terminology to get him talking.

At the mere mention of walleye, he perks up. I have caught his attention.

I ask a simple question. Are leaches good bait for walleye catching?

“Only in the spring,” he says.

“Leaches are best in the spring.”

And so we go. I ask about minnows and night crawlers and anything else fish-related I can think of, talking with the man who raised me and who still wears his Walleye Joe hat and “Shut up and Fish” sweatshirt.

He answers with the knowledge of a lifetime of fishing. Which bait works best when. How fishing in a lake is different than in the river. The fact that walleye were more plentiful when he was a boy so they were easier to catch. I can see, as he talks, he is reliving good memories.

I never caught the fishing bug – unless you count goldfish. I guess I don’t have the patience or the attention to detail it takes to catch the elusive walleye. But I still enjoy eating them – lightly coated, pan fried with a pat or two of butter for that extra touch. And although these days I purchase them at the grocery store, one thing remains true: walleye and memories of my dad are inseparable – always have been, always will be.

And that, my friends, is golden.

My story doesn’t end there. Back to my original question: are there walleye in heaven? There better be. For my dad heaven wouldn’t be heaven without walleye. And when he arrives there (hopefully many years from now) he’ll need his fishing pole and a container of leaches, but only if it’s springtime.

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.

(Continued from page 8)

a later date. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to your local animal rescue group. Information provided by the family.

Victor J. Martincic, 80 Victor J. Martincic, of Lemont, formerly a longtime resident of Elmhurst, passed away on July 18, 2020 at the age of 80. He was a veteran of the U.S. Army. Devoted husband of Rasa Martincic, nee Rimas. Loving father of Kristian (Niki) Martincic. Cherished grandfather of Luke and Tali. Beloved brother of Elizabeth (James) Nickl, Maria

(Dr. Enzo) Sella, and Frank (Mara) Martincic. Victor is also survived by many nephews, cousins, and dear friends. Victor served in the Army during the Vietnam War, worked as a teacher, and started several businesses. For many decades he brought his beloved German shepherds to dog parks daily. He also loved cats, especially “bad kitty” Steel. He loved sailing, skiing, soccer and tennis until age and illness curtailed those activities. Funeral services are private.

In lieu of flowers, memorial offerings would be appreciated to Cat Guardians, 932 E. St. Charles Rd., Lombard, IL. 60148 or visit catguardians. org. Petkus & Son Funeral Directors in charge of arrangements. Info: 800994-7600 or www.petkusfuneralhomes.com.

Shirley L. Reese, 91 Shirley L. Reese, of Elmhurst, passed away on July 17, 2020 in Elmhurst at the age of 91. She was born in Forest Park on April 17, 1929. Loving daughter of the late William and Myrtle, nee Hewelt, Reese. Dear sister of Eileen Reese. Funeral service was held Friday, July 24 at Steuerle Funeral Home, 350 S. Ardmore Ave. Villa Park. Interment at Concordia Cemetery Forest Park. Due to COVID-19 restrictions, all visitors to the funeral home are required to wear masks and practice social distancing.

Also, there is a 50-person limit at any given time in the funeral home, as well as the church.

Your cooperation is appreciated.

Info: Steuerle Funeral Home, 1-630832-4161.

Worship Services Directory

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• Slices

The Elmhurst Independent - Thursday, July 30, 2020 • 9

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10 • Thursday, July 30, 2020 - The Elmhurst Independent T he Elmhurst Independent

Real Estate/Business

July 30, 2020 •10

Mazzochi, local business donate hand sanitizer to aid organizations State Representative Deanne Mazzochi (R-Elmhurst) recently secured the donation of large quantities of high-quality hand sanitizer to distribute to local facilities in need, including the People’s Resource Center and the Ray Graham Center for Children with Disabilities.

“Some aid organizations are still having difficulty securing hand sanitizer or other essentials for their needs,” Mazzochi said. “I am grateful that Illinois’ small businesses like Advanced Filter Systems, a local company trying to innovate in this area, has been working hard to address those shortages.”

“When the pandemic began, our mission became clear; to manufacture the safest and most natural hand sanitizer possible,” said Advanced Filter Systems president Terry O’Malley.

Their process removes a variety of impurities, such as sulfur, pesticides, and heavy metals to ensure that the repeated use of hand sanitizers does not lead to health issues.

Mazzochi noted that this hand sanitizer works particularly well for the Ray Graham facility, which works with children with sensory issues and is less bothersome to the therapeutic animals.

Mazzochi was effusive in her praise of both the donation and the hardworking local aid organizations that support people in need.

Mazzochi, who recently submitted legislation to support local manufacture of essential supplies, House Bill 5788, pointed to these and other efforts by local businesses who are “innovating to improve our communities and stepping up to help others through these difficult times.”

SAF, ISRA file federal lawsuit demanding state police stop FOID card delay On Tuesday, July 21, the Second Amendment Foundation (SAF) and Illinois State Rifle Association (ISRA) filed a lawsuit in federal court seeking to force the Illinois State Police (ISP) to comply with the mandated 30-day requirement to issue a Firearm Owner’s Identification (FOID) Card if the applicant meets all qualifications.

Named as defendants are ISP Director Brendan F. Kelly and ISP Firearms Services Bureau Chief Jessica Trame, in their official capacities.

“The law requires that the Illinois State Police either approve or deny a FOID card application within 30 days,” said SAF founder and Executive Vice President Alan M. Gottlieb. “But ISP has been dragging its feet, leaving applicants in

limbo for months. Sometimes the agency doesn’t act for as long as 60 or even 90 days. You can bet that if a private citizen had to comply with a legal requirement within 30 days, he or she would be in big trouble for not meeting that deadline.

“This has been going on for years and it has to stop. It is especially important now, with the surge in FOID applications as a response to recent civil unrest that has included looting and violence. Illinois residents expect efficiency, not excuses, and they haven’t been getting it.”

“We’ve been looking at this problem for a long time, gathering information for filing this lawsuit, and that day has finally come,” added Richard Pearson, ISRA executive director.

Choose DuPage releases economic indicators report Last week, Choose DuPage released its Second Quarter Economic Indicators Report.

Highlights of the report include: • DuPage County’s unemployment rate was 12.6% in May; down from 14.8% in April. DuPage has the lowest unemployment rate in the region.

• In May, 83% of those laid off said it was temporary.

• Unemployment claims dropped 50% from April to May.

• At the end of Q2, there were more than 55,000 job opportunities posted in DuPage County.

• The office vacancy rate remained at 13.8% in Q2, slightly lower than it was during the same time last year.

• The industrial vacancy rate dropped to 6%, from 6.5% during Q1.

A copy of the full report is available for downloading at choosedupage.com.

SUBMITTED PHOTO Elmhurst Independent

Pictured is State Representative Deanne Mazzochi, who joined forces with Advanced Filter Systems to provide large quantities of hand sanitizer to organizations in need, such as the People’s Resource Center and Ray Graham Associaiton with Children with Disabilities.

Illinois eviction rule change to benefit tenants, landlords All relevant information must be filed simultaneously with an official court complaint

By Rebecca Anzel CAPITOL NEWS ILLINOIS

The Illinois Supreme Court has announced that it approved a change to rules governing eviction proceedings that will simplify the process for both landlords and tenants.

The rule change mandates that property owners must file all related documents simultaneously when they file a complaint. That includes pertinent portions of a lease, a copy of the eviction issued by a landlord and proof the tenant received that document.

Property owners must now also prove their right to remove residents from the beginning of the proceed-

ing, giving tenants the exact reason for an eviction, according to the rule.

“This new rule will help self-represented parties on both sides of eviction cases and also the judges hearing these cases by requiring key information at the outset,” Chief Justice Anne Burke said in a statement.

The Supreme Court also approved a standardized form for property owners to use in place of a notice, which explains the basis for an eviction.

According to a news release from the court, the rules are also meant to streamline such proceedings.

Tenants defending themselves will be better prepared for a court hearing and attorneys can more easily evaluate cases, the Supreme Court said.

According to a document presented to the court’s Rules Committee, notices a landlord is terminating a lease, which are “always a prerequi-

site” to filing an official court complaint, “generally” are not given to the court.

“The new rule is intended to crystalize the law, practices, and procedures in eviction courts,” according to a news release issued July 17.

Members of court committees began working on the rule change “long before” the novel coronavirus pandemic, a spokesperson said. It applies to all eviction cases filed on or after July 1.

Gov. JB Pritzker’s moratorium on evictions during the current public health emergency are still in place until July 26, at which time his latest disaster proclamation will expire.

He announced in June that he plans to extend that deadline through the month’s end.

A state grant program will begin in August to help those behind on rent payments.

The Elmhurst Independent - Thursday, July 30, 2020 • 11

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Rare opportunity to own this updated & expanded brick Georgian that has been lovingly looked after for over 45 years.

Enjoy the quiet single tree-lined block of S Lawndale from your front porch, yet close to all Elmhurst has to offer in this $599,900 FIRST OFFERING!

Rare opportunity to own this updated & expanded brick Georgian that has been lovingly looked after for over 45 years. Enjoy the quiet single tree-lined block of S Lawndale from your front porch, yet close to all Elmhurst has to offer in this center of town location - shops, restaurants, train. This 3 bed / 2.1 bath home boasts flexible living & entertainment options w/ a great floor plan perfect for today’s owner- Living room w/ gas fireplace, separate dining room, large Great room w/ expanded ceilings & exposed brick accent wall, family room/office w/ walls of windows. Large eatin kitchen w/ solid wood cabinets, SS appliances, backsplash & granite tops, wine fridge & wet bar. $599,900

Fellows Court Townhome

Fellows Court Townhome

This classic Fellows Court Townhome offers 2 large bedrooms and 2 full bathroom. The 1st and 2nd floor has beautiful hardwood flooring and fresh paint! Enjoy a single-family residence with none of the outside maintenance

This classic Fellows Court Townhome offers 2 large bedrooms and 2 full bathroom. The 1st and 2nd floor has beautiful hardwood flooring and fresh paint! Enjoy a single-family residence with none of the outside maintenance responsibilities. Low association fees, very close to the Metra, Great Schools, Oak Brook & Downtown Elmhurst Shopping, and all major expressways.

There is 1 garage space with brand new flooring and door. No pets. No rentals. $224,900

Your Private Retreat!

Your Private Retreat!

This oversized split level with sub basement offers over 3,000sf of finished living space. 4 beds / 2.5 baths - master suite with walk-in closet and updated master bath. Completely remodeled in 2017 with a new roof, windows, mechanicals, $619,000 NEW PRICE! S DER BUIL ENT STM E V IN WISE

610 S. Linden, Elmhurst

610 S. Linden, Elmhurst

Amazing opportunity to work with one of Elmhurst’s top custom home builders. Steps from award winning Jefferson Elementary and the IL Prairie Path, in one of Elmhurst’s hottest neighborhoods. This generous plan offers ceiling detail

$224,900 NEW LISTING!

58 ft wide lot steps to Berens Park Sports Complex - sledding hill, sand volleyball courts, tennis, Hub Splash park, turf fields, baseball/softball diamonds, batting cages, putt-putt golf and a block away from Wagner Community Center. In a well-

Amazing opportunity to work with one of Elmhurst’s top custom home builders. Steps from award winning Jefferson Elementary and the IL Prairie Path, in one of Elmhurst’s hottest neighborhoods. This generous plan offers ceiling detail throughout, exquisite millwork, a large mudroom, 1st floor office, huge kitchen with 2-tier island for prep sink/area and separate eating space. Open family room with gas fireplace overlooks 160’ deep yard. Superb from the curb with covered front porch and patio in the rear. Too many other details to list! Builder is also willing to build to suit at different price points. $1,250,000

$1,250,000 IN FOR PERMIT

Build New Near Berens Park!

Build New Near Berens Park!

This oversized split level with sub basement offers over 3,000sf of finished living space.

4 beds / 2.5 baths - master suite with walkin closet and updated master bath.

Completely remodeled in 2017 with a new roof, windows, mechanicals, top of the line finishes, fenced yard with lots of mature trees, paver patio and storage shed.

Oversized 2 car attached garage with epoxy flooring and circle drive. Beautiful hardwood floors, white kitchen with massive seating island, separate dining room, living room fireplace, and walkout family room. Laundry and tons and storage in the basement. $619,000

58 ft wide lot steps to Berens Park Sports Complex - sledding hill, sand volleyball courts, tennis, Hub Splash park, turf fields, baseball/softball diamonds, batting cages, putt-putt golf and a block away from Wagner Community Center. In a well-developed neighborhood with lots of new construction.

Close to downtown Elmhurst, Metra, Emerson Elementary and all major highways. Home is tenant occupied till midAugust. Home can be rented out as you develop your new construction plans. $259,000

Double Wide Lot For Sale

Double Wide Lot For Sale

Endless possibilities and potential to build your dream home on this oversized 100x125 lot close to City Centre, restaurants and Metra. Convenient access to all major transportation routes. Top-rated Field Elementary school. Well built 2 bed / 2

$259,000 Lot For Sale

Endless possibilities and potential to build your dream home on this oversized 100x125 lot close to City Centre, restaurants and Metra.

Convenient access to all major transportation routes. Top-rated Field Elementary school. Well built 2 bed / 2 bath / 1765 sq ft brick and stone Ranch home is currently on property. Flexicore basement ceiling. Rehab, add on, or build new. As-Is Sale. Value in the land. $325,000

$325,000

Modern Farmhouse

Hinsbrook Construction’s newest offering on Colfax, one of south Elmhurst’s most sought-after streets. Stand out from the rest with fresh, new design. Custom accent wall and barn door to first floor office/bedroom. Hardwood floors throughout the $1,199,000

100% Completed Modern Farmhouse

378096

Hinsbrook Construction’s newest offering on Colfax, one of south Elmhurst’s most sought-after streets. Stand out from the rest with fresh, new design. Custom accent wall and barn door to first floor office/ bedroom. Hardwood floors throughout the first floor. Formal dining with wainscoting & huge family room with gas fireplace flanked by built-ins. Gourmet kitchen with custom cabinets, large seating island, eating area, high-end SS appliances, walk-in pantry, mudroom with built-in cubbies and large walk-in closet. Upstairs boasts 4 large bedrooms and 3 full baths. Master suite with tray ceiling, dual walk-in closets, and spa bath. Huge 2nd floor laundry as well. A fully finished basement with a large rec room, 5th bedroom or workout room, full bath, wet bar, and a ton of good storage space. 2 car attached garage. Overall, roughly 4,900sf of finished living space. Walk to Jefferson (public K-5) or Visitation (private K-8), Smalley Pool, Butterfield Park, & the IL Prairie Path. Close to shopping and highways. $1,199,000

CHECK OUT OUR NEW WEBSITE: http://PrairiePathRealtors.com/

The Elmhurst Independent - Thursday, July 30, 2020 • 13

Modern Farmhouse

Hinsbrook Construction’s newest offering on Colfax, one of south Elmhurst’s most sought-after streets. Stand out from the rest with fresh, new design. Custom accent wall and barn door to first floor office/bedroom. Hardwood floors throughout the $1,199,000

100% Completed Modern Farmhouse Hinsbrook Construction’s newest offering on Colfax, one of south Elmhurst’s most sought-after streets. Stand out from the rest with fresh, new design. Custom accent wall and barn door to first floor office/ bedroom. Hardwood floors throughout the first floor. Formal dining with wainscoting & huge family room with gas fireplace flanked by built-ins. Gourmet kitchen with custom cabinets, large seating island, eating area, high-end SS appliances, walk-in pantry, mudroom with built-in cubbies and large walk-in closet. Upstairs boasts 4 large bedrooms and 3 full baths. Master suite with tray ceiling, dual walk-in closets, and spa bath. Huge 2nd floor laundry as well. A fully finished basement with a large rec room, 5th bedroom or workout room, full bath, wet bar, and a ton of good storage space. 2 car attached garage. Overall, roughly 4,900sf of finished living space. Walk to Jefferson (public K-5) or Visitation (private K-8), Smalley Pool, Butterfield Park, & the IL Prairie Path. Close to shopping and highways. $1,199,000 Stunning Renovations

Stunning Renovations

Check out this French Provincial Newer Home! Completely Move In Ready this GORGEOUS Maryknoll 4 Bedroom Home has been completely transformed with an all new Kitchen, all new Master Bathroom and features all the trends of 2020! $874,900 FIRST OFFERING!

Check out this French Provincial Newer Home!

Completely Move In Ready this GORGEOUS Maryknoll 4 Bedroom Home has been completely transformed with an all new Kitchen, all new Master Bathroom and features all the trends of 2020! Walk into your breathtaking 2 story foyer featuring newly wainscoted staircase leading to your cozy living room and library. Large Formal Natural Light-Filled Dining Room, incredible Chef’s Kitchen with Grey and White tones with Quartz Countertops with Herringbone Subway Tile design and floating shelving all designed with OPEN CONCEPT to your Family Room with Gas Fireplace. $874,900

Lot For Sale in Lincoln

Lot For Sale in Lincoln

Attention Builders! Great corner lot 75 x 125.

Located close to Shopping, Schools, Restaurants.

Home on property is a tear down. Call for details.

$324,900 Lot For Sale

Great Home / Great Price!

Great Home / Great Price!

Situated on an oversized lot this completely move in ready home will knock your socks off all within a stone’s throw from the Park District’s NEW All inclusive Butterfield Park, baseball fields and gazebo! This 3 Bedroom/2 Bathroom Home has

Situated on an oversized lot this completely move in ready home will knock your socks off all within a stone’s throw from the Park District’s NEW All inclusive Butterfield Park, baseball fields and gazebo! This 3 Bedroom/2 Bathroom Home has beautifully refinished hardwood floors, Lovely Family Room centered with brick fireplace, large formal Dining Room and lots of Charm! Spot less Eat In Kitchen, 3 generous Bedrooms and 2 newly renovated Bathrooms. $374,900

$374,900 UNDER CONTRACT

Transformed Tri-Level

Transformed Tri-Level

Completely transformed split level. Full exterior remodel and wraparound porch addition. White kitchen with breakfast bar and newer SS appliances. Basement completely remodeled with wide plank vinyl flooring, white cabinetry and quartz $499,900 UNDER CONTRACT!

Classic Red Brick Bungalow

Classic Red Brick Bungalow

Steps to Lincoln School, York HS & Prairie Path and Spring Road Business’, Features include: intricate moldings, arched doorways, gorgeous HW floors, Newer Maple Kitchen w/ Granite CT’s, NEW SS appliances. Awesome Addition w/ $499,900

Steps to Lincoln School, York HS & Prairie Path and Spring Road Business’, Features include: intricate moldings, arched doorways, gorgeous HW floors, Newer Maple Kitchen w/ Granite CT’s, NEW SS appliances. Awesome Addition w/ multiuse/over-sized/custom ISLAND that will be the HUB of the Home all of which is surrounded by the view of your incredibly private backyard. 1st floor offers an in-law/ arrangement w/ Full Bath & Bedroom. Functional Office & Formal Dining and Living Rooms round out the 1st floor. 2nd Floor has 4 spacious Bedrooms w/ a Full Bathroom.

Basement has HUGE Rec Room w/lots of storage! $499,900

Attention Builders! Great corner lot 75 x 125. Located close to Shopping, Schools, Restaurants. Home on property is a tear down. Call for details. $324,900

Completely transformed split level. Full exterior remodel and wraparound porch addition. White kitchen with breakfast bar and newer SS appliances. Basement completely remodeled with wide plank vinyl flooring, white cabinetry and quartz counters in the home office and laundry room along with Samsung washer and dryer. The upstairs levels offer 4 beds and 2 full baths and playroom. Great outdoor space with a large shaded seating area for couches and outdoor dining. All exterior drains and downspouts were tied into the city storm sewer & AC replaced in 2016. Walk to Jefferson Elementary or Visitation, Butterfield Park and Prairie Path. $499,900

Land For Sale < $300k

Land For Sale < $300k

~Land for Sale~ Lot lies in Blue Ribbon Lincoln School District. Quiet private location. Build your dream home and raise your family in one of the Western suburb’s finest towns. $299,000

~Land for Sale~ Lot lies in Blue Ribbon Lincoln School District. Quiet private location. Build your dream home and raise your family in one of the Western suburb’s finest towns. $299,000

378097

LYN EL EN GL

14 • Thursday, July 30, 2020 - The Elmhurst Independent

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

The Schiller Team • 6bed/5.1ba • $1,599,900 630.992.0582 • 154Evergreen.info

Pikulik/Schiller • 5bed/4.1ba • $950,000 630.606.1197 • 280FremontAv.info

Andrea Leu • 5bed/4.1ba • $740,000 630.202.8841 • 727NEmroyAvenue.info

Valdiserri/Iaccino • 6bed/4.1ba • $1,195,000 630.886.8039 • 845Linden.info

Novack/Jablonowski • 4bed/4ba • $895,000 773.848.1464 • 256NMaple.info

Maria Gracik • 5bed/4.1ba • $999,000 630.306.7882 • 122Oneida.info

Connie Tomlinson • 4bed/2.1ba • $799,900 708.309.9902 • 186SArlingtonAvenue.info

The Schiller Team • 4bed/2ba • $559,900 630.814.4065 • 526SFairview.info

Alisa Godoy • 4bed/3.1ba • $759,000 561.409.6076 • 650NWillowRd.info

Deirdre Wiener • 3bed/2.1ba • $499,900 773.432.0200 • 621WBelden.info

MICHIGAN

Linda Weber • 4bed/2.1ba • $349,900 630.779.6606 • 212NBonnieBrae.info

UNION PIER Will Schauble • 4bed/3ba $1,295,000 • 312.860.4192 16262LakeshoreRd.info

OGDEN DUNES Michael Smith • 2bed/3ba $885,000 • 219.921.9227 94Shore.info

378122

The Schiller Team • 4bed/2ba • $455,000 630.814.4065 • 205NClinton.info

The Elmhurst Independent - Thursday, July 30, 2020 • 15

The Elmhurst Independent

Family Living

July 30, 2020 • 15

Spirito! Singers reboot, re-engage for virtual fall programs At the onset of the Covid-19 crisis, it quickly became apparent that communal singing was potentially dangerous.

Spirito! Singers recognized that the virus could have a profound impact on their community and took immediate action to protect singers and their families.

Spirito! switched to a virtual platform in March for the remainder of the season. And now, Spirito! is one of the first community choral organizations in the Chicagoland area to announce a virtual model for Fall 2020 programming, reimagining what communal music-making can look like in a time of social-distancing.

“We needed to do some soul searching about what ‘choir’ truly means,” said Mary Jean Adkins, Spirito! executive director.

“Choral music is about much more than singing and performing.”

Spirito! Singers’ virtual curriculum builds on its legacy of musical excellence, and promises to be engaging, challenging, and fun.

“There are many important skills learned in choral rehearsals: teamwork, perseverance, empathy, creativity, critical thinking, along with – of course – healthy and beautiful singing,” said Carling FitzSimmons, Spirito! artistic director.

“We can continue to foster these skills outside of rehearsals, by creating classes that will support the work we do as an ensemble. By learning more about other aspects of vocal music, our singers will be stronger than ever when we are able to sing together again.”

Spirito! is offering an exciting line up of fall online classes for 5th – 12th grade girls, including Vocal Technique,

which will strengthen solo performances and address technical issues unique to singing; Songwriting, which will provide a workshop-style setting to debut their original songs and receive feedback from other students and teachers; and Music Technology, which will allow students to create new works using online and software-based platforms – no other instruments necessary.

Also offered in the curriculum are courses in conducting, advanced composition, and various levels of music theory classes plus a music history course and a theory course geared toward the Men of Spirito!

“Our goal, by the end of this virtual semester, is for our girls and young women to be well-rounded, confident musicians,” said FitzSimmons. “We want our singers

to know that their voices are valid not only as choral singers, but also as composers, conductors, soloists, and theorists. And I hope that the skills they learn in class will empower them to be leaders not only in rehearsals, but in their communities as well!”

Spirito! Fall Courses are available for not only current members of the choir but also non-members, who would like to give Spirito! a try – NO AUDITION NECESSARY. You can learn more about the Spirito! Virtual Fall Course Catalog at spiritosingers.org and start the registration process by sending an email to Carling FitzSimmons at cfitzsimmons@ spiritosingers.org Please put “Fall Class Inquiry” in the subject line. Registration is open until Aug. 15 and online classes begin on Aug. 31.

August programs coming to Elmhurst History Museum Museum Maker Mondays Kits Monday, Aug. 10 from 10 a.m. – 12 noon free Keep kids occupied this summer with our fun craft kits filled with a variety of creative materials. Kids can choose from a selection of different kits to stir their imaginations.

Stop by the Elmhurst History Museum’s Education Center from 10 to noon to pick up a free kit. Limit one kit per child, while supplies last.

Location: Elmhurst History Muse-

um, 120 E. Park Ave. tion of where the photo was taken to: Info: Call 630-833-1457 or visit ehmprograms@elmhurst.org. Only elmhursthistory.org. one admission per person will be accepted. Photos will be considered Travel Photo Contest by a panel of community judges and June 1-Aug. 31 free the top three entries will win a speBring back special memories of cial gift basket of items from local past vacations by participating in an Elmhurst businesses. Entries will be online Travel Photo Contest from shared on social media and at elmJune 1-Aug. 31. Simply e-mail a hursthistory.org. digital copy of your favorite or best Location: Elmhurst History Musetravel photo with your name, email, um, 120 E. Park Ave. phone number and a brief descripInfo: Call 630-833-1457 or visit elmhursthistory.org.

GreenMan Theatre begins virtual storytelling class on Aug. 8 GreenMan Theatre will offer a storytelling class starting Saturday, Aug. 8. This is a three-session class that will then transition into a show called “Spooky Stories and Songs of the Season” for performances in October.

Students interested in the class do not have to participate in the October performances.

The class will meet on the Saturdays of Aug. 8, 15, and 22 at 10:30 a.m. for a two-hour session. Fee for the class is $25 for GreenMan members and $30 for non-members.

[Memberships are available for the 2020-21 season.] Makeup classes can be arranged for students who may miss one of the sessions.

Due to the ongoing restrictions for in-person meetings, the class will be meeting either online, outdoors with masks, or a combination of the two.

The class is geared to all levels, beginners to advanced. Interested participants can reserve a spot or ask questions by contacting the theatre at

630-464-2646 or the teacher at thomdav@comcast.net.

In the class, students will learn about telling a variety of story types, including Traditional Tales, Literary Tales, Personal Stories, and Urban Legends. The class will focus on “spooky stories” because after the class is over, interested participants will transition into rehearsals which will become the performance of “Spooky Stories and Songs of the Season,” which is scheduled to be presented by GreenMan Theatre October 23-24.

Performances of “Spooky Stories” may be held outdoors or online, depending on best safety measures this fall. Additional performance opportunities may be available. Students do not have to perform in the show to attend the class. The director reserves the right to decide if each student is ready to perform.

GreenMan programs are partially supported by a grant from the Illinois Arts Council, a state agency.

Outdoor Elmhurst History Tours Now through Oct. 11 free The Elmhurst History Museum has two local adventures in store for those looking to take a neighborhood road trip. Take an outdoor tour of Elmhurst, either on foot or two wheels, and try out a fun plaque scavenger hunt to share with family and friends while adhering to safe social distancing. Options include a 5K Walking and Biking History Tour and a 1.5mile Bronze Plaque Scavenger Hunt geared to families. Stop by the Elmhurst History Museum’s front porch to pick up maps and an information sheet or go to elmhursthistory.org to download documents.

Location: Elmhurst History Museum, 120 E. Park Ave. Info: Call 630-833-1457 or visit elmhursthistory.org.

Road Trip Virtual Trivia Night Friday, Aug. 7 beginning at 7 p.m.

Fee: $10 per team, registration required at elmhursthistory.org.

Are we there yet? Dust off your

road trip memories and join us on Zoom for a fun night of trivia celebrating “The Great Midwestern Road Trip” exhibit. Teams will gather virtually for three rounds of fast-paced road trip trivia facilitated by Sporcle covering movies, music, geography and more. Space is limited to 10 teams (up to 6 players each). Need some take-out for your trivia night?

Order from Pints in Elmhurst and mention the code AreWeThereYet? for a 10% discount.

Location: Elmhurst History Museum, 120 E. Park Ave. Info: Call 630-833-1457 or visit elmhursthistory.org.

Info: Call 630-833-1457 or visit elmhursthistory.org.

Online Book Discussion: ‘Travels with Charley in Search of America’ Thursday, Aug. 27 from 6:30 p.m. – 7:45 p.m. free Registration required at the Elmhurst Public Library web site at elmlib.org/athome Join us live on Zoom for a discussion of John Steinbeck’s 1962 novel chronicling the author’s memorable road trip across the country with his French poodle, Charley, as he reflected on America’s character. Co-presented by Elmhurst Public Library and Elmhurst History Museum in New addition to the schedule! connection with “The Great MidFacebook Live concert western Road Trip” exhibit. Approwith Chris Vallillo

By Thy Rivers Gently Flowing, priate for adults.

Presented by: Elmhurst History Illinois in Her Own Words Museum and the Elmhurst Public Sunday, Aug. 16 Library beginning at 2 p.m. - free Info: Call 630-833-1457 or visit Access: facebook.com/elmhurstelmhursthistory.org. historymuseum Join us on Facebook for a livestreamed concert featuring Chris REMINDER: The Elmhurst History Museum Vallillo, a singer/songwriter and roots musician who makes the peo- has reopened with the following prople and places of “unmetropolitan” cedures in place until further notice: • Online reservations are required, America come to life in song. In celebration of our state’s 200+-year go to elmhursthistory.org make a reshistory, Vallillo will live stream this ervation.

• Visits will be capped at one hour, performance of songs, poems and stories by the Prairie State’s best- limit 15 patrons per hour with maxloved authors, songwriters and poets imum 5 people per group. This will to give voice to the story of Illinois. change as conditions permit.

• All visitors will be required to This program is supported by the Illinois Arts Council, Illinois Human- wear face masks for entry and mainities and the National Endowment for tain 6-ft. social distance.

• Before you visit, go to elmhursthe Humanities (NEH).

Location: Elmhurst History Muse- thistory.org or follow their facebook page for the latest information um, 120 E. Park Ave.

16 • Thursday, July 30, 2020 - The Elmhurst Independent

Teachers’ union urges most schools to not reopen for in-person learning IFT says most schools, colleges and universities still are not ready

By Peter Hancock CAPITOL NEWS ILLINOIS

One of the state’s largest teachers’ unions said July 20 that most schools in Illinois are not yet ready to reopen for in-person teaching in the fall and

K-12 schools in Illinois, along with colleges and universities, were ordered closed for in-person classes on March 15, just days before Gov. JB Pritzker issued a statewide stay-athome order in response to the emerging COVID-19 pandemic. They remained closed through the remainder of the school year and were allowed to reopen for summer school on only a limited basis in early June when the state entered Phase 3 of the reopening plan.

it urged schools to continue operating remotely until the safety of students, teachers and staff can be assured.

“At this point, our recommendation is schools should return to online or remote learning after the beginning of the school year,” Dan Montgomery, president of the Illinois Federation of Teachers, said during a video news conference. “That is the safest and best option. It’s safest for the students and their families. And it’s also the most practical.”

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to meet those standards. “But most districts right now are not able, we believe to hit the marks, the benchmarks in terms of social distancing, in terms of all the PPE and cleaning,” he said.

IFT has more than 103,000 members who teach in public, private and charter schools, as well as 21 community colleges, nine public universities and one private university.

Its announcement July 20 came nearly a week after the 135,000-member Illinois Education Association, the state’s largest teachers’ union, issued a similar statement that called for ensuring that all schools have adequate cleaning supplies, PPE, face masks and social distancing protocols.

“No one wants to return to school more than those who have chosen education as their profession, but it is also professional educators who understand better than anyone the impact a contagious disease can have on a school population,” the statement read.

Asked about the reopening plan at an unrelated event July 20 in Peoria, Pritzker said he expects every educational institution in the state to approach the task differently.

“In some cases, schools are going to choose no in-person school. In some cases, it’ll be mostly in-person school,” he said. “But what we’ve said is, make sure you’ve got at least the hybrid available. And for kids, and there are plenty of them, who are immunosuppressed, or kids who are in families where there’s somebody at home who is immunosuppressed, they may stay home. That may be what they need to do.”

EEHealth offers: How to guard against pandemic PTSD

PAUL

h Dan brou DELGUIDI CE ce, ght o PHOT who u per t the b O Elmhur form ea st Ind

On June 23, as the state was entering Phase 4 of the reopening plan, the Illinois Department of Public Health and the Illinois State Board of Education released guidelines for the resumption of in-person classes for the upcoming 2020-2021 academic year.

“In-person instruction is strongly encouraged in Phase 4,” the guidelines state. “[H]owever, it is critical to note that this does not signify a return to pre-pandemic operations.

Appropriate social distancing, face coverings, enhanced sanitation measures, and other accommodations will be necessary to ensure the safety of students, staff, and their families.”

Those guidelines require, among other things, use of appropriate personal protective equipment, or PPE, including face coverings; prohibiting more than 50 people from gathering in one space; observing social distancing as much as possible; monitoring all individuals for symptoms of COVID-19; and an increase in schoolwide cleaning and disinfection.

But IFT issued a statement July 20 suggesting those guidelines do not go far enough. In addition to the measures IDPH and ISBE recommended, IFT called for districts to negotiate their reopening plans with their local teachers’ unions, allowing a blended model of in-person and online learning that would limit class sizes to no more than 15 students at a time, giving teachers authority to decide what the best model is for their students, and requiring a two-week quarantine for any student or staff member who tests positive for COVID-19.

Montgomery said there might be some schools in the state that are able

234470

This pandemic has been traumatic for many. It has created uncertainty about the future, fears about getting sick, financial concerns and many other stressors. Some are grieving the loss of a loved one from COVID-19. Being isolated from each other only makes the situation worse.

Mental health experts expect that for some people, the COVID-19 pandemic will cause post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Some distress is normal, such as trouble sleeping or nightmares. People may feel numb, detached, angry, edgy or constantly on guard. Usually these symptoms pass over time.

When symptoms don’t go away, get worse or begin to disrupt someone’s life, it could be PTSD. If someone struggles with a mental health condition like anxiety or depression, or if someone has experienced a past trauma, they may be more likely to develop PTSD. They may also be more likely to develop PTSD if they: • Lost a loved one to COVID-19; • Were infected with COVID-19, especially if they were seriously ill; • Are a frontline healthcare worker or first responder; • Lost their job or have financial concerns.

PTSD won’t be the only mental health consequence of the pandem-

ic, experts predict. Other mental health issues will likely emerge, such as increases in depression, anxiety, addiction and even suicide.

Managing stress now, and getting help for PTSD if needed, can protect mental well-being in the long-term.

Here are seven healthy ways to cope during the pandemic: 1. Focus on what can be controlled, not what can’t.

2. Practice self-care. Create a daily routine, eat healthy, get good sleep and manage stress.

3. Engage in healthy distractions, such as meditation, yoga, mindfulness, watching a favorite show, taking walks, listening to music, etc. Avoid using alcohol, tobacco or drugs.

4. Unplug from the news, especially before bed. Focus on positive stories of recovery.

5. Know that this too shall pass and the pandemic will eventually end.

6. Stay connected. Being isolated for a long time can trigger symptoms. Research shows that support from family and friends is an important part of recovery from PTSD. 7. Reach out for help. If normal coping skills aren’t working, people may need additional support from a professional therapist.

For updates on COVID-19, check EEHealth.org/coronavirus.

The Elmhurst Independent - Thursday, July 30, 2020 • 17

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18 • Thursday, July 30, 2020 - The Elmhurst Independent T he Elmhurst Independent

Sports July 30, 2020 • 18

IC Catholic Prep tabs Smith as new baseball coach Brings strong coaching and playing background to Knights program

By Mike Miazga CORRESPONDENT

Matthew Smith has packed plenty of valuable baseball experience into the last 12-plus years.

Smith, who recently was hired as IC Catholic Prep’s new head baseball coach, played for four years at Concordia University-Chicago in River Forest where he was the team’s closer the last three years after serving as a setup man his freshman season.

“

There are a lot of steps we still have to take both physically and mentally in order to be prepared for opening day next spring.”

to these young men and help shape who they are. It’s OK to talk about religion and be part of a faith-based family.”

Smith also was impressed with IC Catholic Prep athletic director Michael Fahey. “Mike is a great leader,” he said. “When we talked, his mindset about where he wants to take the athletic program fits for me very well. Everybody at IC has been very welcoming from the start. I immediately felt very comfortable.”

Smith said he has not been able to conduct any practices or camps with the IC Catholic Prep players as of

yet. “Since taking the position a few weeks ago I have been able to get to know the families in the program.

That’s very important,” he said. “A lot of kids are off playing travel ball.

With COVID, let’s make sure we are doing everything safely and taking the proper precautions first. We have to do the right thing here.”

Smith noted his style of coaching falls into the “players’ coach” category. “My style is very player-development-first at all levels,” he said.

“I want to develop relationships with the players as people—as student-athletes and as young men. I

want them to be able to take on the challenges that life brings to you.

Life throws a lot of different scenarios at you. A perfect example is when you go to the plate. You can put your best swing on a ball that you can and the centerfielder makes a diving catch. There is nothing you can do about it. It’s out of your control. You did your best. Baseball helps shape young men. Just because you didn’t get a hit doesn’t mean you were not successful. Failing is not a negative thing. Look at it as a learning experience and the opportunity to get better.”

Smith currently teaches physical education at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic School in Glenview.

“I would love one day to be part of the school academically, but there were no openings this year,” Smith said. “I’m absolutely looking forward to next spring and putting everything together. Right now, I am putting things in motion and getting to know the players and their families, and they are getting to know me.

There are a lot of steps we still have to take both physically and mentally in order to be prepared for opening day next spring.”

–Matthew Smith IC head baseball coach

It was at Concordia where Smith caught the coaching bug. “I wanted to get into coaching,” he said. “I graduated the winter of 2007 and in the spring of 2008 I helped out the baseball team at Concordia. That was fantastic. I enjoyed it and it opened my eyes to a different aspect of the game with recruiting and the administrative side of things. It helped me realized that I wanted to be a head coach and run my own program.”

Smith, who earned a master’s degree from Concordia and served as a graduate assistant coach there, coached at Streamwood High School for a year while doing his student-teaching.

He also did coaching stints at Maine West, Notre Dame College Prep in Niles and Loyola Academy in Wilmette. He was the program’s pitching director at Loyola for two seasons. Smith is a graduate of Notre Dame High School.

Smith was supposed to coach at St. Francis High School in Wheaton this past season before COVID-19 scuttled those plans.

“I saw the IC job and I always wanted to be a head coach and I went for it,” Smith said.

Smith replaces Frank DeAngelis, who took a middle school PE job in the West Aurora school district.

“I love that IC Catholic Prep is Catholic-based, just like Notre Dame,” Smith said. “Notre Dame was a great stepping stone for me. It helped me develop into the man I am today and be a valuable role model

Elmhurst American Legion baseball

SUBMITTED PHOTO Elmhurst Independent

Elmhurst American Legion Post 187’s Jimmy O’Donnell makes contact plate during a recent contest against Wheaton Post 76. The Post 187 Muddogs baseball team was scheduled to return to action this coming Wednesday in Elgin against Post 57.

SPORTS 19

sports sports

The Elmhurst Independent - Thursday, July 30, 2020 • 19 The Elmhurst Independent - Thursday, July 16, 2020 • 19

IC Catholic Prep’s Sykora keeping busy on the baseball circuit IC Catholic Prep graduate Senior-to-be invited to two elite showcase camps

Leslie headed to Le Moyne

By Mike Miazga CORRESPONDENT

IC Catholic Prep senior-to-be baseball player Dave Sykora isn’t letting Will playpandemic volleyball the COVID-19 slow him down one bit. for Division Sykora was invitedIItoschool a pair of national camps. Sykora By Mikedevelopment Miazga originally was invited to a camp in CORRESPONDENT Omaha, in June foRecent Nebraska IC Catholic Prep that graducused onLeslie skill-building with college ate Bella wanted to head east andcollege. major league trainers and retired for athletes.

That spot campended was up cancelled Her landing being to theDivision pandemic. was atdueNCAA II Sykora Le Moyne supposedwhere to stay Iowa Knights Western College the atformer Community College his will time volleyball and soccerduring standout there. He also have had the opcontinue her would volleyball career at portunity to meet who were the Syracuse, Newplayers York school as in the College World aparticipating libero.

Series.

“All of the schools I was looking What on hasn’t is the at were the been East cancelled Coast,” Leslie Under Baseball told theArmour Independent lastFactory week.Na“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 facilBy Mike ities.

TheMiazga volleyball program has CORRESPONDENT good workout facilities and a nice A number youth with locker room. Iofliked howgolfers modern it York High School ties continue to was.” excel on plans the summer tournament cirLeslie on studying nursing atcuit.

Le Moyne. “They have a good At theprogram,” recent 40th Chick Junursing she said.Evans “As far as what kind of a nurse I want to be, I’m not quite sure yet.”

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

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.

tional World Series at Pirate City in Bradenton, Florida, the spring training home of the Pittsburgh Pirates.

Sykora will take part in that showI feel like I would be so bored withcase event Aug. 2-6. out it because it has been such a big Sykora noted the Bradenton camp part of my life.” also is a skill-building camp with maLeslie said she has plenty of jor league trainers and coaches. memories from IC Catholic Prep’s “To me, being invited to these coach Nancy Kerrigan’s program. camps means a lot,” he said. “It “I loved playing there,” she said. shows that hard work and determina“I probably enjoyed school volleytion can lead to bigger things to furball more than club because I love ther the `goal of college baseball. It my coaching alsoteam meansand a lot the because I comestaff from was very supportive on and the a baseball family and also aoff school court.

It made it a really good enthat isn’t a big baseball school. I also vironment to be in. Coach (Kerrihave not been to any events like this, gan) was great.

I have known which makes me nervous and her also for a while.

When I was little, I did excited to play on such big fields with all thecoaches.” little kids camps, and her great daughter myhas brother’s gradeat Sykorawas saidinhe been hard atwork IC.”at improving his game since the 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 nior Amateur Championship at Itasca going on campus and not knowing Country Club, recent York graduate all the faces. I’ll miss those close Matt Buckleywith tied the for seventh the connections coachesinand boys flight, finishing with a plus-1 teachers. It will be weird for the score.

Heor shot rounds of 75 and 70 to first year so.” finish with a two-day totallife of 145.

He Leslie said pandemic hasn’t was eight strokes off thethough lead. her been overly exciting, Buckley advanced boys club volleyball team to hasthe started match bracket round of 16 as the No. practicing again.

“We have been 8 seed and dropped a 4 and 3 decipracticing two or three times a sion to she Willsaid.

Stewart Lake toin week,” “Weout areofgoing the Hills.

Stewart advanced the be starting tournaments again.toBechampionship match where lost fore that I haven’t been doingheany5 andbecause 4. thing 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.”

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

end of last season.

“My biggest improvement from last year is my speed and footwork,” he said. “Since last season, I have been working out six days a week running and footwork drills to I’mdoing really better myself and my speed, and it paid off duringto my be summer season.” excited able This summer Sykora has been to play in playing with volleyball the Elmhurst Cougars 17U travel team coached by Mike college. gives mehad Schrage.

SykoraItnoted the team a something few tournaments to cancelled do. I early on, but finished up 7-6-1, playing in a feel pair oflike round-robins and two I would betournaments.

“I started off a without bit slow, but turned so bored up the volume and finished with a it because it Sykora has noted. .289 batting average,” Sykora also was strong on the been a big mound for such the Cougars, appearing in five games and posting a 1.89 ERA. part of my life.”

“

Sykora said on the pitching front, he’s making progress under the tutelage of new private pitching coach Scott Nelson. “Since November, coach Nelson has helped me work on mechanics, timing and little tweaks to my pitching stride that helped me pitch so well this summer.”

Sykora said college interest already is there from smaller colleges such as Alabama State, Dordt and Knox College, along with invites to camps.

Sykora admitted losing his junior year of high school baseball was a tough pill to swallow. “Having high school baseball cancelled this season was tough for me, especially knowing I wasn’t going to be able to play with the seniors that I grew up playing with them one last time,” he said.

“Knowing that junior season was an

important year, it was hard to accept that we could not play baseball this year and not showcase the skill our IC team built over the last two years.”

Besides baseball, Sykora stayed plenty busy during the lockdown. “I spent a lot of time with family and we all grew closer,” he said. “I also learned how to computer program, produce music beats and also spent time working out with homemade equipment because of the gyms and parks being closed.”

As far as the future, Sykora would love to take the game as far as he can.

“The ultimate goal for me is to get drafted into Major League Baseball, but also to get a good education at a good college while also playing baseball. I always strive for the top, and I believe I will be able to put hard work in and be able to complete that goal.”

– Bella Leslie

Local youth golfers continue to make their mark on summer circuit

SU DOKU

been cancelled due to the pandemPtak, aAug. 2020 ic. Elmhurst “I will resident probablyTJ leave Illinois Math and Science Academy 10-11 because it’s a far drive,” graduate, finished at plus-12 with she said. “We had Zoom call with rounds of 74 and 82.

Senior-to-be the team recently and they said Zachshould Sutter have finished plus-14about after they an at answer rounds of 80 and 78, while classmate our season in the next 7-10 days.

Sam Bartalone wasthree at plus-15 after They talked about scenarios rounds of 81 and 78. and what could happen like if we Atthethe recently IJGA-CDGA start season and someone gets Junior-Am held at Prairie sick and we have to stop andLandgo. ing in one West Ptak tied for That’s of Chicago, the reasons why they at plus-15.

He had rounds 48th place are looking at moving the season to of 76 and 83. the spring.

Right now the plan is to York graduate tied 2019 have a season, but we Jacob won’tWit know until the next 7-10 days.”

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 Fun typicallyby whatthe I am good at.

I have really good reaction time,” Numbers she said.

“I like diving on the floor and saving balls. It’s a really good feeling when you make a save. The Like puzzles? position fits you’ll my personality, too.

Then love You have to be the loudest one on sudoku.

This mindthe court.

I have apuzzle loud personality. bending will You have to you be pretty loud if you have hooked want tofrom be a the libero.

I think I match moment that description.” you square off,

so sharpen your pencil and put your (Continued from page 18) sudoku savvy to test! and communicate They lost to West Chicago on huge rah-rah person. I’m a little bit ble andthe transparent

• Stopka

I think an own goal in the last five more of an individual players’ coach. with everybody.” minutes. That was against the state I will pull kids to the side at practice As far as the future, Stopka wants champs in the sectional finals. That’s and games and teach them.”

York competing at a high level on a hell of a season if you ask me.”

Stopka noted York has been doing a consistent basis. “The short-term Stopka will teach Spanish at York. conditioning drills and said the plan goal is to restock and build up the He taught Spanish and one math class as of earlier last week was to start team,” he said. “A large portion of at St. Pat’s. “My philosophy is I am summer camp pending District 205 last year’s team was seniors, espemore of a players’ coach,” he said. approval. “I have probably been able cially the starting 11. We have to “I have been a big Liverpool soccer to meet 60 to 70 percent of the play- make sure the now juniors are up to supporter ever since 2015 when Jur- ers so far,” he said. “If it does get ap- the speed of the varsity level and are gen Klopp came over and he’s known proved that would be the start of our ready to contribute. We want to keep as a players’ coach. He’s kind of my contact days with four days a week that pipeline going with the younger coaching idol. I want to related to the for three weeks straight. And even groups of players. We want to make Here’s How It Works: players and form bonds with them. though the IHSA waived the black- sure we are not only competitive, but Sudoku puzzles as a the 9x9 grid,year, broken down intocompeting nine 3x3for regionI am more light-hearted and are smil-formatted out dates before school we that we are To fun solve a sudoku, the take numbers 1 through 9 must each row, column ing. I boxes. like to have and joke with won’t advantage of that. I’m als, fill sectionals and supersectionals. andThe box. number can appear only have once in each column andthis box. the kids. goalEach is understanding pretty sure families plans to do row, It starts for me with junior class the order inbefore whichschool the numbers will that appear by using whereYou each can playerfigure can beout successful things starts. I’m the is coming in. Wethe want them numeric clues already The more numbers name, and the provide the best way possibleprovided new guy in andthe I’mboxes. not going to say ready to go andyou setting the standard to convey the knowledge go with your family. Go for these other classes that come in the easier it getsthey to need solveyou thecan’t puzzle! at the position they play. I am not big do it and enjoy it. This is a crazy and so they can also contribute right off

for 64th with a plus-18 score. Wit shot 75 on the first day and 87 on the second. Sutter tied for 103rd at Prairie Landing. He shot 91 and 82. Elmhurst resident Clark Davis (Fenwick High School, 2020 graduate) finished at plus-34 at Prairie Landing with rounds of 84 and 94. York senior-tobe Joe Bonelli tied for 112th place at plus-35. He had rounds of 92 and 87.

At the Summer Junior Elite No. 4 at Springbrook in Naperville, Nick Zanoni, a sophomore-to-be at IC Catholic Prep, finished 45th with a plus-45. Zanoni was 42nd at plus-30 in the Summer Junior Elite No. 3 at Deerfield Golf Club.

Prep girls volleyball coach Jean Field is part of the first induction class into the IllPrepVB.com Illinois High School Volleyball Coaches Hall of Fame. Field will join 22 others as honorees in the first class.

Field coached IC Catholic Prep for 39 seasons from 1973 to 2013 and amassed 885 wins. She announced her retirement two months after the team won its third state title under Field. Her other two titles came in 1981 and 1984.

Field’s teams also finished second in state three times, third once and reached the final eight teams in the state 12 times.

CHRIShas FOX been PHOTOpart Elmhurst Independent Field of the IC Catholic Prep community for more than Field inducted into 45 years. She continues to serve as Hall of Fame directoraofrecent counseling the school.

Legendary former fires IC Catholic Anthony Bucolo a pitch during U12 at baseball

U12 baseball action

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Buckley ties for seventh at Chick Evans Junior-Am

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YORK HIGH SCHOOL PLAYER OF THE WEEK YORK GRACE HIGH SCHOOL PLAYER OF THE WEEK HUNTER, LUKE ROGERS GIGISTUDENT BARR MANAGERS YORK ATHLETICS YORK GIRLS Hunter and Rogers are theVOLLEYBALL recipients of the York 2020

Paul Myers of Student ManagerYork Award.

Hunter Barrand wasDavid the recipient the 2019-2020 Val Cothern was a student manager for cross country and track and junior female athlete of the year award. Barr went over the field, while Rogers was a student manager for boys water 1,000-career kill threshold last fall for the Dukes girls volleypolo. ball team and still has a season to add to that total.

20 • Thursday, July 30, 2020 - The Elmhurst Independent

Edward-Elmhurst Health submits ideas for coping with COVID-19 How to keep kids busy this summer

This summer looks very different as the country grapples with COVID-19.

Many summer camps and community activities are closed or limited. This leaves a lot of kids at home with nothing to do and parents wondering how they will keep them entertained (while trying to hold down full-time jobs, in some cases).

First and foremost, families need to stay safe and continue taking precautions as recommended by the

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Wash hands often and use hand sanitizer.

Wear face coverings when out in public (don’t put a mask on a child younger than age 2); stay six feet away from anyone outside the same household; and avoid crowded places and group gatherings.

Here are eight ways to keep kids busy this summer during coronavirus: 1. Visit local parks and playgrounds. Set out early in the morning before it gets too hot and take a family hike along a trail. Set up a picnic in a local park or grill out in the backyard. Continue to practice social distancing and have ex-

tra hand wipes and sanitizer gel on hand.

2. Splash around. Even if a swimming pool isn’t available, kids can still have some water fun. Set up a splash pad, slip-n-slide or mini inflatable pool in the backyard. Have a water balloon fight or let kids play under a sprinkler.

3. Have a family game day. Pick out favorite games and rotate who chooses one each week. Try Pictionary, HedBanz, Monopoly, Jenga, Scrabble, Twister, etc. Head outside for basketball, racquetball, cornhole, Spikeball, freeze tag, etc. Try an old-fashioned game of flashlight tag or “capture the flag” at night.

4. Find fun outdoor activities.

Try activities like Frisbee, playing

catch or kicking a soccer ball, hopscotch, jump rope, hide and seek, etc. Make sure kids wear proper-fitting helmets at all times when riding a bike or scooter, rollerblading/rollerskating and skateboarding.

5. Set up a family challenge. Create a scavenger hunt in the neighborhood with fun clues. Make an obstacle course in the backyard (relay race, potato sack race, Limbo, hula hooping, balancing an egg on a spoon, etc.). It could be parents vs. kids, and the winner gets a prize, such as picking a dessert or movie for the night.

6. Make a mini carnival or fair.

Set up different stations such as a tie-dye t-shirt station, face painting, chalk drawings on the driveway,

paint rocks, make balloon animals, etc. Turn on the music and have a dance party or play freeze dance.

Better yet, break out the instruments and make music together.

7. Have a family movie night.

Find a local drive-in movie theater or set up a projector and watch a movie outside in the backyard. Pop some popcorn or set up an ice cream bar with all the toppings.

8. Camp out. Find a nearby campsite or camp out in the backyard. Set up a tent and sleeping bags. Enjoy burgers on the grill, s’mores by the fire and stargazing from the backyard. Or, build an indoor fort or put out sleeping bags for the night.

For updates on COVID-19, check EEHealth.org/coronavirus.

State unveils six-year road, bridge improvement plan without COVID-19 adjustments

By Jerry Nowicki CAPITOL NEWS ILLINOIS

Gov. JB Pritzker joined Illinois Department of Transportation officials July 21 to unveil a six-year, $21.3 billion statewide road and bridge improvement plan that is an extension of the Rebuild Illinois infrastructure package passed last year by the General Assembly.

IDOT is tasked with unveiling a multi-year plan each year to detail how it will spend transportation dollars on state and local highway transportation systems. For the current fiscal year, the investment in road and bridge infrastructure totals $3.15 billion, according to the governor’s office.

Current funding levels would allow the multi-year plan to include 3,356 miles of road improvements and 8.4 million square feet of bridge deck in total over the next six years.

The infrastructure spending largely relies on revenue from the motor fuel tax—which was increased on July 1, as it will every year forthcoming under the new state law—among other driving-related fees.

According to an overview of the multi-year plan on the IDOT website, however, revenue estimates were not adjusted to account for economic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic and associated stay-at-home orders.

“Due to the unprecedented

COVID-19 pandemic and national stay-at-home guidance, the reduced consumption of gas is expected to cause a decrease in motor fuel tax revenue that would be deposited into the state’s road and state construction fund,” according to IDOT’s summary of the plan. “It is not yet known what the actual decrease will be. Therefore, no adjustments were made to the (multi-year plan).”

“The department will continue to monitor the data and make any adjustments deemed necessary as actual revenue impacts become known,” the summary continued.

While the attendees of a news conference unveiling the plan touted the Rebuild Illinois package, which passed in 2019, acting IDOT Secretary Omer Osman said the COVID-19 pandemic presented some unforeseen challenges.

“The multi-year plan keeps us on track during these uncertain times,” Osman said at an event in Collinsville. “While we are not cutting or delaying projects at this time, we will continue monitoring the impact on future revenue to ensure we are investing taxpayer resources wisely. Clearly, COVID-19 is not going to be something that lasts for a few months, but likely impact our decision making for years to come.”

Despite the pandemic, Osman said, Pritzker allowed road work to contin-

ue by deeming construction workers essential in his executive orders.

That allowed year one of work on the Rebuild Illinois plan to continue despite state stay-at-home orders, so the first year of the plan saw $2.77 billion in improvements, with $2.15 billion to the state system and $616 million in the local system.

Included was 1,385 miles of road improvements in the state system— comprising 61 bridges and 157 safety improvements—as well as 321 miles of road improvements in the local system, including 67 bridges and 71 safety improvements.

Pritzker noted IDOT had developed a plan consistent with the Federal Highway Administration’s Transportation Asset Management Plan standards.

“That standard puts an end to the practice of letting roads and bridges in Illinois deteriorate until they’re in just terrible shape,” the governor said. “Instead we’re investing on the front end, saving money for taxpayers.”

Among other projects, the first year of the plan included design work on an Interstate 80 bridge over the Des Plaines River that was deemed structurally deficient, resurfacing on state Route 251, widening and reconstruction on state Route 47, reconstruction on the Murray Baker Bridge in Peoria, construction and

Wheaton man accused of defacing property with homophobic slurs On Thursday, July 23, DuPage County State’s Attorney Robert Berlin and Wheaton Chief of Police Bill Murphy announced that a Wheaton man had been charged with defacing government-owned property and a Wheaton church with homophobic slurs.

Joe Fustar, 60, of 129 N. Hale, Wheaton, appeared in Bond Court, where Judge Maureen Dunsing released him on a $10,000 personal recognizance bond.

Fustar has been charged with two counts of Criminal Damage to Government Supported Property and one count of Criminal Damage to Property – School or Place of Worship. All

charges are Class 4 Felonies.

It is alleged that at approximately 9 a.m., on July 20, Fustar wrote a homophobic slur with a permanent marker on the door of the Gary United Methodist Church as well as on a stone bench located outside the church.

It is alleged that the same morning, Fustar wrote the same homophobic slur with a permanent marker on the interior of the elevator doors at the City of Wheaton parking garage on Wesley Street.

It is further alleged that at approximately 7 p.m. the same day, Fustar again wrote the same homophobic slur with a permanent marker on more than

ten park benches at Adams Park on Wesley Street. An investigation into the graffiti conducted by the Wheaton Police Department led to Fustar.

“Defacing government owned property as well as a church with crude, divisive language, as alleged in this case, will not be tolerated not only by my office but by the residents of Wheaton,” Berlin said.

Fustar’s next court appearance is scheduled for Aug. 17, for arraignment in front of Judge Ann Celine O. Walsh.

Members of the public are reminded that this complaint contains only charges and is not proof of the defendant’s guilt.

bridge repairs on Interstate 74, resurfacing on Interstate 55 and U.S. Highway 51, resurfacing and bridge repairs on Interstate 255, and completion of design for added lanes and bridge replacement on Interstate 57 in southern Illinois.

Pritzker touted the plan as one that would create jobs in a difficult economic climate in Illinois and across the U.S. “Even in a pandemic—especially in a pandemic—our transportation systems connect the lives of our resi-

dents and our communities,” Pritzker said. “…The Multi-Year Plan we’re announcing today provides funding to reconstruct over 3,300 miles of roads and over 8 million square feet of bridges—and, more importantly, create and support hundreds of thousands of jobs over the next 6 years for hardworking Illinoisans across our state.”

Projects for the plan are selected by safety criteria such as crash history, pavement conditions and traffic volumes.

State employment agency hit in nationwide fraud scheme IDES says federal Pandemic Unemployment Assistance program is ripe for abuse

By Peter Hancock CAPITOL NEWS ILLINOIS

The Illinois Department of Employment Security said July 22 it has been affected by a nationwide fraud scheme involving the federal Pandemic Unemployment Assistance program.

That program, enacted as part of the federal CARES Act, provides 100 percent federally funded jobless benefits to independent contractors, gig workers and others who don’t normally qualify for the traditional unemployment insurance program.

In a statement July 22, IDES said that program was designed hastily as the COVID-19 crisis was unfolding and that it did not include adequate safeguards to prevent abuse.

That’s because the program is designed for people who don’t have an employer.

In traditional unemployment, the agency said, an employer would be able to challenge a claim by reporting that a claimant was still employed or had not lost work through no fault of their own.

IDES spokeswoman Rebecca Cisco said in an interview that the scheme involves filing unemployment claims using false identities and then attempting to have the payment method switched from the debit cards that people receive when they qualify for benefits to a direct deposit.

The agency said those behind the

fraud probably obtained people’s personal information through an earlier cyber hack or data breach such as the Equifax data breach of 2017.

IDES did not say how many fraudulent claims it has detected or how much money is involved, but it did say it is cooperating with both local and federal law enforcement agencies to track down and prosecute the individuals behind the scheme.

Gov. JB Pritzker addressed the fraud scheme during a recent news conference in Chicago, saying the scheme has affected nearly every state unemployment program in the nation.

“If you received a debit card in the mail, do not activate it,” Pritzker said.

“It’s also highly recommended that you check your credit report for possible suspicious activity. Again, this is a problem being experienced all across the country right now because the national program was poorly designed and susceptible to fraud.”

People who believe a fraudulent claim has been filed in their name are urged to call IDES immediately at 1-800-814-0513. When prompted, select the English or Spanish language option, then select option 1 for claimants and option 5 to report identity theft.

Information about identifying and reporting identity theft is available on the Federal Trade Commission’s website, www.ftc.gov.

The Elmhurst Independent - Thursday, July 30, 2020 • 21

College news • Amanda Karnatz started out the year with fireworks at Lawrence University in her 2020 Softball Season shortened due to COVID-19. Amanda led her team in batting average with a .533 average. She also led her team in on-base percentage, hits, extra base hits, doubles, stolen bases and runs scored. Amanda was named to both the Midwest Conference All-Academic Team and the Dean’s List at Lawrence. This year Amanda was also nominated by Lawrence University for the NCAA Women of the Year Award. She has been named to both the Midwest Conference All-Conference Team and the NFCA All-Region team every year since she began her collegiate softball career. Amanda is a 2016 graduate of York High School, where she was a three-year starter on the Varsity softball team and a two-time All-Conference and All-Region Player.

• Katherine Karnatz, a freshman at the University of Missouri Kansas City (UMKC), had an outstanding year both on the softball field and in the classroom. Katherine won the starting shortstop position and was one of only two UMKC players to start all 19 games in the COVID19-shortened 2020 season. She led her team in both doubles and stolen bases as a freshman. Her best game this season was against the University of Hawaii in Honolulu when she went 3-for-3, including a walk with a stolen base. Katherine also had six put-outs in the game includ-

ing turning a double play. Katherine made the Dean’s List both semesters and was named to the Academic All Western Athletic Conference team with a 4.0 grade point average. Katherine is a 2019 graduate of York High School, where she was a four-year starter on the Varsity softball team and a four year All-Conference and threeyear All-State Player.

• Students receive degrees at Miami of Ohio Miami University awarded degrees to the following Elmhurst students during virtual spring commencement experience held on May 16 & 17: Tommy Blake, Ryan Bourgart, Madison Casey, Nick Gorecki, Jack Julian, Kate Kronstein, Michael Sepanski and Laurel Tompos.

• Caroline Fahey, of Elmhurst, excelled during the Spring 2020 semester, earning a spot on the Dean’s List.

• Elmhurst native Daniel Rafac has been named to the Knox College Dean’s List of distinguished students for the 2020 Spring Term.

• At College of the Holy Cross in Worcester, Ma., David Sullivan of Elmhurst, majoring in Political Science, was part of the first cohort of students from the Class of 2022 to participate in the Business, Ethics & Society minor. The minor is offered through the College’s Center for Interdisciplinary Studies and the Carlyse and Arthur A. Ciocca ‘59 Center for Business, Ethics and Society.

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Lawsuit: State Police unconstitutionally delaying FOID card applications Officials point to increased requests, Rauner-era budget stalemate as cause of delays

By Rebecca Anzel CAPITOL NEWS ILLINOIS

Gun rights advocacy groups filed a federal lawsuit July 20 against the Illinois State Police claiming that the office in charge of handling Firearm Owners Identification card applica-

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OPENING JULY 27, 2020

tions is unconstitutionally delaying that process.

State statute dictates that “no person may acquire or possess any firearm, stun gun, or taser,” or ammunition, without having a state-issued FOID card. ISP has 30 days from the date it receives an application and filing fee to either approve or deny that request. For renewals, state police officials have 60 days.

The Firearms Services Bureau, in charge of processing those applications, “often” misses those deadlines, according to the lawsuit. Residents are left “in limbo for months,” argue the State Rifle Association, based in Chatsworth, and Second Amendment Foundation.

The Foundation, based in Bellevue, Wash., has Illinois members.

Court documents misidentified the bureau chief of that ISP office—it is Maj. Jarod Ingebritsen, a spokesperson said, not Jessica Trame. The lawsuit was also filed against State Police Director Brendan Kelly.

“The consequences for delay are neither abstract nor a mere inconvenience; they are a matter of life and death,” the groups alleged. “Sadly, in similar situations, where the government bureaucracy legislatively empowered to act as a Second Amendment gatekeeper has dithered in processing applications, there have been fatal results.”

The only example cited in the lawsuit is a 2015 case in which a New Jersey resident was killed by her ex-significant other before her gun permit application was processed.

Members of the two groups, as well as four Illinois residents—from Chicago Heights, Oak Forest and Buffalo Grove—did not receive notice from the State Police about whether their applications were approved or denied within the 30-day timeframe mandated by statute, according to the court document.

It does not specify when the applications were filed or how long those Illinoisans have waited for ISP action, but does mention a June CBS Chicago story in which a spokesperson said an influx of new applications was delaying processing.

“With an explosion of applications and firearms purchases during the pandemic and current events—63,823 FOID applications ... just last month—broader legislative remedies to streamline and modernize the FOID process will be necessary to meet statutory timelines,” a spokesperson said in an email. “We look forward to working with all interested parties and members of the General Assembly to reach those solutions. The Firearms Services Bureau is committed to resolving the issues and meeting our public safety mission.”

The spokesperson added that the number of FOID card applications filed in June is up 148 percent from June 2019 when 23,359 applications were submitted to the State Police.

In the lawsuit, the groups argue the

“

Simply put, if the State of Illinois is going to condition the exercise of a fundamental right on the receipt of a license, then the process for issuing that license cannot be defective to the point of nearinoperable.”

– ISP spokesperson

delay is also caused by “the State of Illinois’ persistent refusal to provide the resources necessary.”

Almost $30 million allocated to the State Police for conducting background checks and responding to FOID card applications was transferred to other state accounts, according to a 2019 Government Forecasting and Accountability report.

“The Illinois State Police agree FOID applications should be processed quickly and within the statutory guidelines,” the ISP spokesperson said in an email. “Financial instability brought on by the lack of a budget in the prior administration greatly impacted the processing of FOID applications by the Firearms Services Bureau.”

She added that “at least” 32 added analysts and investments in technology allowed under this fiscal year’s budget will help address the issue.

“Illinois cannot justify completely and indefinitely denying its residents their fundamental Second Amendment right to possess a firearm to defend their lives, families, and homes while they wait for the ISP to approve their FOID card applications,” according to the lawsuit.

“Simply put, if the State of Illinois is going to condition the exercise of a fundamental right on the receipt of a license, then the process for issuing that license cannot be defective to the point of near-inoperable.”

The groups are requesting a judge declare that the State Police violated two rights guaranteed by the U.S. Constitution—the Second Amendment right to bear arms and the Fourteenth Amendment right to “an objective, prompt, and appealable procedure.”

ISP’s “challenged practices are now causing and will continue to cause (Illinoisans) to suffer irreparable injury,” according to the court document.

Additionally, the groups are asking a district court federal judge to compel the State Police to “immediately issue FOID cards” to the residents named in the lawsuit and pay monetary damages and attorney’s fees.

The Elmhurst Independent - Thursday, July 30, 2020 • 23

De COLORES CHILDREN’S SPANISH VIRTUAL SUMMER CAMP August 3 - August 7 10 AM Children entering K-4th grade will participate in FREE daily virtual sessions (via Zoom) from 10:00 to 10:45 am.

Each session will feature educational components that children participating in the in-person De Colores have enjoyed throughout the years. Spanish will be introduced through Storytelling, Art, Global Outreach, and Music.

This program is provided by

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24 • Thursday, July 30, 2020 - The Elmhurst Independent

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