EI081723

VOL. 21• NO. 35

Disciplinary action against teacher withdrawn at D205 special meeting

Board issues statement after three-hour executive session

By Chris Fox

FOR THE ELMHURST INDEPENDENT

The Elmhurst Community Unit School District 205 Board held a special meeting on Aug. 8 at the District 205 Center, 162 S. York St. Six of the board’s seven members attended the meeting, which began at 5 p.m. Board member Kelly Henry was absent from the meeting.

At the end of the meeting, the board emerged from a closed session and voted unanimously to approve a notice to remedy to a district teacher, who is reportedly a teacher at York High School. Board members then voted unanimously to withdraw the disciplinary action against the teacher that had previously been delivered by the district’s administration. The board’s action withdrew a one-day suspension without pay against the teacher, who reportedly made a reference to a student in a post on social media.

Seventeen people spoke during the meeting’s public-participation segment, which took place before board members went into closed session. Fifteen of the speakers defended the teacher who faced disciplinary action and urged the board not to reprimand the teacher. One of the speakers said a reprimand of the teacher would send a dangerous message. Another speaker said that punishing the teacher would harm the district’s ability to attract and retain teachers. Another speaker, who identified herself as a lawyer, referred to the Family Educa-

tional Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA). That speaker said the teacher did not disclose any student records online and should not be subject to any discipline.

The speakers during the meeting’s public-participation segment also included a current York student who defended the teacher and described her as a great educator. Another speaker stated the teacher had broken the FERPA law and should be held accountable.

Tom Chavez, a frequent speaker at District 205 board meetings, also spoke during the public-participation segment of the Aug. 8 meeting. Earlier this year, Chavez ran unsuccessfully for a seat on the District 205 board. Chavez said the issue at hand was the district’s obligation to protect private student information. He stated that if the district did not act, it would send a message to parents that their students’ confidential information could be shared “with malicious intent by district employees without consequence.”

During his comments, Chavez mentioned the names of people who criticized him during the public-participation segment of the July 25 board meeting. Board president Athena Arvanitis then interrupted Chavez and advised him to refrain from using people’s names during his comments. Chavez went on to say that most parents in the district want

See TEACHER, Page 3

Legion salutes Mulliner, others

DEE LONGFELLOW PHOTO Elmhurst Independent

(from left): John Scudder and Bill Shanklin, both of the Elmhurst American Legion Post THB 187, share a joke with former 7th Ward Alderman Mark Mulliner. Mulliner was one of several members of the community who were honored at the Legion’s Community Night on Saturday, Aug. 12.

EMH Foundation presents Myers scholarships

The Elmhurst Memorial Hospital (EMH) Foundation has awarded $5,000 Thomas O. Myers, Jr. and Shirley L. Myers Endowed Scholarships to college students Gillian Atilano and Mikaela Orbe. The

scholarships are awarded every year to children of Elmhurst Hospital employees who are pursuing careers in healthcare.

Atilano is entering her senior year at Marquette University, where she is

pursuing a nursing degree to become an emergency department nurse. Her mother Lelizza Atilano works at Edward-Elmhurst Health’s Lombard Immediate Care and was also a recipient of the Myers Scholarship in

2020 and 2021. Orbe is entering her senior year at Loyola University, where she is earning a nursing degree with plans to be a pediatric nurse. Her mother Cheryl Orbe works in the Post-Anesthesia

Care Unit at Elmhurst Hospital. The Myers Endowed Scholarships were first awarded in 2004 in appreciation for the high quality and compassionate care provided by the staff of Elmhurst Hospital to those living and working in the communities it serves. Winners are chosen based on academic achievement, leadership and community service, and their decision to pursue a career in healthcare.

Elmhurst Memorial Hospital Foundation recently awarded the 2023 Myers Endowed Scholarships to area students. Pictured are (from left) Susan Tyburski, executive director, EMH Foundation; Valerie Cahill, scholarship committee chair; Gillian’s mother Lelizza Atilano; recipient Gillian Atilano; Shirley Myers, scholarship founder (along with her late husband Tom); recipient Mikaela Orbe; Mikaela’s mother Cheryl Orbe; Dr. Kim Darey, EMH president, and Paul Myers, scholarship founder’s son.

• Teacher

(Continued from front page)

schools to welcome and support true diversity of thoughts and opinions in the district. He said that doesn’t happen in certain classes in the district.

Shortly after the public comments concluded, the board went into closed session for about three hours before returning to open session.

Statement from Board president follows closed session

When executive session concluded and the meeting became open again, Arvanitis read the following statement:

“After numerous meetings with a tenured teacher, and the teacher’s representatives, including two closed

session hearings with the board of education, the board has reached a consensus to issue a notice of remedy to the teacher. The notice is limited to the release of confidential information about a student in connection with the teacher’s responses on social media to posts by the student’s parents. In taking this action, it is the focus of the board of education to protect the confidentiality of student information in accordance with state and federal law, and board of education policy. Although it encourages and expects social media participants to be truthful and respectful, the board does not intend to engage in social media controversies. The board has reached consensus to issue

a notice of remedy to a teacher. A notice to remedy is a notice to a tenured teacher from the board of education to address certain conduct issues and to meet certain expectations going forward.”

Board elects to withdraw action, suspension

Board members then voted unanimously to adopt the resolution approving the notice to remedy for the teacher. The board then voted unanimously to withdraw the previous disciplinary action against the teacher by withdrawing the teacher’s one-day suspension without pay, restoring the teacher’s lost day of pay, and authorizing District

Superintendent Keisha Campbell to document the board’s action in the teacher’s personnel file and with the Elmhurst Teachers’ Council (ETC).

Arvanitis then made the following statement before adjourning the meeting:

“The board and the administration have made significant efforts to support teachers. To continue these efforts, the board looks forward to future conversations where representatives of the board of education and district administration can hear the ETC leadership’s ideas for ways to support all teachers. Thank you.”

The board will hold its next regular meeting on Aug. 22.

SUBMITTED PHOTO Elmhurst Independent

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American Legion THB #187 honors community supporters

By Dee Longfellow FOR THE ELMHURST

INDEPENDENT

Elmhurst American Legion Post

THB #187 honored a number of local people at a Community Appreciation event held on Saturday, Aug. 15. The evening featured a concert by the local band Lake Effect.

At 6:30 p.m., a ceremony was held to dedicate the Legion Post’s atrium to the late Art Ahlgrim of the Ahlgrim Funeral Home. His son and daughter-in-law Scott and Charity Ahlgrim attended to accept the honor on his behalf. The couple received their own special honor from the Post for their many contributions as well.

Prior to the concert, the Legion honored the City of Elmhurst, including City Manager Jim Grabowski, who attended on behalf of Mayor Scott Levin, several aldermen, the Fire Department, the Police Department, the Park District, the Public Library and the Elmhurst Chamber of Commerce & Industry.

There was a special salute to former 7th Ward Alderman Mark Mulliner.

Mulliner has offered great support to the Legion over the years such as bringing ‘Cool Cars Under the Stars’ and helping with the Memo-

mer State Rep. Deanne Mazzochi, Rich Reichert, Community Bank of Elmhurst, John Quigley, Elmhurst Chamber of Commerce & Industry,

and Kasindra Mladenoff of Elmhurst Premier Childcare, who brought the Nashville Songwriters event to the Legion.

On Saturday, Aug. 15, the American Legion Post THB #187 held Community Night in the Normandy, featuring a concert by Lake Effect. Pictured are (from left): Tony Cuzzone, drummer for Lake Effect, RPS Tom Marcotte, Diane McGinnis, and Tony’s wife Marie. rial Day parade, particularly during COVID-19 when the parade turned into a caravan. Also honored at the event was for-

Above left: In addition to dedicating its atrium to the late Art Ahlgrim, the Legion recognized Scott and Charity Ahlgrim, the “next generation” of Legion supporters.

Above right: The American Legion’s Bill Shanklin “shakes a tail feather” with local realtor Eva Sanchez on the dance floor on Saturday evening. (Editor’s note: Shanklin is either Post Commander or Sgt. At Arms and John Scudder either Sgt. At Arms or Post Commander. Depends on the day and the weather.)

Left: DuPage County Board member Cindy Cronin Cahill (center) greets American Legion honorees former State Rep. Deanne Mazzochi (left) and Kasindra Mladenoff of Elmhurst Premier Childcare.

DEE LONGFELLOW PHOTOS

Pritzker signs bills expanding protections for Native Americans

Signing ceremony takes place on land that could return to tribal hands

By Peter Hancock CAPITOL NEWS ILLINOIS

Gov. JB Pritzker signed a package of bills Aug. 4 extending cultural protections to Native Americans in Illinois and requiring the teaching of Native American history in public schools.

At a bill signing ceremony in Schaumburg, Pritzker highlighted three historic sites that were significant in Native American history in Illinois—the Buel House along the Cherokee Trail of Tears in Pope County; the Pierre Menard Home in Randolph County; and the Kincaid Mounds that contain the remains of a Native American city—and said Illinois needs to acknowledge its role in a dark chapter of history.

“All three of these sites are located within our state’s borders and they represent some of the ugliest parts of our history,” he said. “It’s up to us to right the wrongs of the past and to chart a new course, one that educates our people so we won’t repeat the sins of the past.”

House Bill 3413, the Human Re-

mains Protection Act, establishes procedures for handling human remains and gravesites that are uncovered in Illinois. It also authorizes the Department of Natural Resources to work with the Illinois State Museum and representatives of tribes with historical ties to Illinois to establish a cemetery for the reburial of repatriated Native American remains and materials.

Illinois has the second-largest collection of unrepatriated Native American remains in the U.S., housed by the Illinois State Museum. The museum holds that collection despite the 1990 passage of the federal Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act.

Senate Bill 1446 requires school districts to allow students to wear items of cultural, ethnic or religious significance at their high school graduation.

It was prompted in part by an incident in 2022 when a Native American student, Nimkii Curley, at Evanston Township High School was told he could not walk across the stage

to receive his diploma with an eagle feather and bead work on his cap and gown.

And House Bill 1633 mandates instruction in Native American history in all social studies courses that teach American history and government.

Among those attending the bill signing Aug. 4 was Joseph “Zeke” Rupnick, chairman of the Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation. That

nation was once based in DeKalb County, Illinois, but the U.S. General Land Office seized that land in 1849 and sold it at a public auction.

The nation is now headquartered in northeast Kansas where it operates a hotel and casino, but legislation pending in Congress would return more than 130 acres to the Potawatomi and provide them with about $50 million in settlement funds

that could be used to reacquire additional land on or near the original reservation.

“The bills signed here into law make it clear that Illinois understands, it is not enough for us to merely exist in a country, in a state built on Native American land, but we must be included as part of the society with equal rights and respect,” Rupnik said.

By Andrew Adams CAPITOL NEWS ILLINOIS

Members of the public railed against potential increases to the price of natural gas and electricity at two recent public hearings before a state regulatory body that has the authority to limit those rate hikes.

The Illinois Commerce Commission is considering several rate hikes, including two sought by the utilities Peoples Gas and Ameren Illinois, who say they are needed to fund infrastructure improvements.

Activists and residents in the utilities’ service territories, however, accused the companies of corporate greed and of disregarding the needs of the poor. Environmental advocates also shared concerns about the effects of natural gas on public health and the climate.

Representatives of Peoples Gas outlined their request at an ICC hearing held at a University of Illinois Chicago auditorium on Aug. 1. Their request, if allowed, would result in an approximate monthly increase of $11.83 for residential gas prices. They also noted that they expect the market rate for gas to decrease, which could result in customers’ bills remaining mostly stable next year.

The ICC has the authority to accept, reject or modify the amount of the increase and the other details included in the request, like how the utility plans to spend its money and the utility’s profit rate.

“The primary driver of our rate request ... is the investments we’re

making in our system,” Peoples Gas President Torrence Hinton said Tuesday.

The hearing, which drew about 100 people, came about two weeks after the ICC hosted a similar hearing in Decatur on a proposed electric rate increase from Ameren. Both hearings were requested by AARP Illinois, a consumer advocacy organization that represents people over 50.

Dorian Williams, one of dozens of people who spoke against Peoples Gas’ requested increase, said the question wasn’t about whether to invest in the infrastructure, but who would pay for it.

“It’s my understanding that when a company maintains a product—in this case not the gas itself, but the infrastructure delivering that product—it is their task to maintain it,” Williams said. “So if the infrastructure has been degrading and hasn’t been maintained, if people haven’t been employed at levels to keep it maintained, wouldn’t that be considered negligence on behalf of the company?”

Others at the hearing asked the commission to consider the affordability implications of granting the rate increase. Scott Onqué is the pastor at St. Luke Missionary Baptist Church on Chicago’s South Side and the policy director for Faith in Place, an environmental advocacy organization.

“Why spend money on the backs

Residents, activists ask state regulators to reject utilities’ rate increases

Top concerns include affordability, business practices, climate effects

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

Assault, battery

July 28

A victim in the 800 block of W. Van Auken reports that subsequent to a verbal argument over a business deal, a suspect displayed a handgun and threatened him. Pending further investigation.

Criminal damage to property, criminal trespassing

Aug. 6-Aug. 7

Police said that an unknown suspect(s) entered a school in the 800 block of N. Wilson and vandalized various rooms. An investigation is pending.

Aug. 5-Aug. 7

Police said that an unknown suspects(s) entered a school in the 100 block of Victory Parkway and vandalized various rooms. An investigation is pending.

Aug. 6

A complainant in the 300 block of E. Crescent reported at 8:37 p.m. that the glass panel on the front door to the residence was damaged by an unknown object. An investigation is pending.

Aug. 3-Aug. 5

A victim in the 300 block of W. Eggleston reports an unknown suspect(s) attempted to pry open their mailbox, causing damage.

Aug. 3

While on patrol, a reporting officer in the 100 block of W. First discovered that an unknown suspect emptied a fire extinguisher into the fourth floor stairwell.

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

Aug. 9

Arnulfo Galvez-Banuelos, 38, of Addison, was charged with DUI, attempted obstructing justice, stopping on the roadway and no insurance near Maple and North at 2:23 a.m.

Michael Yahkind, 34, of Chicago, was charged with DUI-drugs subsequent to a report of a driver asleep behind the wheel in the 100 block of W. North at 7:42 p.m.

Aug. 5

Manuel Chavira, 28, of Chicago, was charged with aggravated driving under the influence, driving under the influence, no valid driver’s license. suspended driver’s license, improper lane usage, illegal transportation of open alcohol and no insurance, while Edwin Roman-Ramos, 35, of Addison, was charged with unlawful possession of a controlled substance subsequent to a traffic stop near Route

83 and St. Charles at 2:55 a.m.

Daniel Guevara, 18, of Melrose Park, and Christian Salgado, 18, of Northlake, were each issued a citation for disorderly conduct in the 100 block of N. York at 11:44 p.m. Police said the suspects confronted the victim, causing her to feel alarmed and disturbed.

Edward Rodriguez, 29, of Elk Grove Village, was charged with driving under the influence subsequent to a suspicious vehicle in the 100 block of E. Third at 6:20 a.m.

Fleeing, eluding

According to information provided last week by the Elmhurst Police Department, police reported one incident of fleeing and eluding during which the driver of a vehicle fled the scene after being stopped for a traffic stop by police.

Harassment, threats

Aug. 5

A complainant in the 600 block of N. York told police at 6:28 p.m. that his brother in-law threatened him while at the above location. The reporting officer spoke with the complainant’s brother in-law who related he did not say anything to the complainant and tries to stay away from the complainant.

Identity theft, fraud

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

Possession of cannabis in a vehicle

According to information provided last week by the Elmhurst Police Department, police reported two incidents of possession of cannabis by either the driver of a vehicle or a passenger: Maurice Williamson, 30, of Chicago, near West and Alexander at 5:18 a.m. Aug. 5; and Oscar Ocampo, 19, of Elmwood Park, near North and I-290 at 12:59 a.m. Aug. 9.

Possession of a controlled substance

Aug. 8

Marion Black Jr., 56, of Indianapolis, was charged with unlawful possession of a controlled substance and unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia, while Litanya Black, 54, of Indianapolis, was charged with unlawful possession of a controlled substance, unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia, and possession of open alcohol subsequent to a suspicious vehicle in the 800 block of N. York at 11:32 p.m.

Bryan Schiavone, 32, of Wood Dale, was charged with possession of a controlled substance, unlawful possession of cannabis by a driver and making an improper turn at an intersection subsequent to a traffic stop near York and Vallette at 11 p.m.

Aug. 5

Amya Scott, 19, of Aurora, was issued ci-

tations for obstructing identification and possession of a fictitious identification card near West and Alexander at 5:18 a.m.

Suspicious incident

Aug. 9

A victim in the 900 block of S Hawthorne told police her ex-husband showed up at her house and wanted to talk to their son. The victim told him to get off her property, and the suspect left a note on her car asking to have their son call him. The victim stated they were divorced in 2012 and their son last saw him 6 years ago. The victim requests the suspect be served with a trespass notice.

A victim at Elm Creek Drive reported sending explicit photos to an unknown suspect purporting to be a female on Instagram. The unknown suspect then threatened to share the images if the victim did not send money. The victim sent funds via Venmo and a photo of a gift card.

Aug. 7

A complainant in the 100 block of S. Prospect related, as she was walking to her vehicle, she observed a subject sitting in his vehicle with his pants undone. The subject was issued a no-trespass notice.

Aug. 4

A complainant in the 100 block of E. Schiller told police that while entering the rear entrance to her apartment complex, an unknown suspect described as a black male approached her and grabbed her by the wrist. The complainant turned to face the suspect who then released her wrist and walked away. An investigation is pending.

Aug. 3

A complainant in the 200 block of S. Berkeley reported at 6:17 p.m. he was flagged down by an unknown subject in a tan Toyota Camry. When the complainant approached the vehicle, he noticed the subject was completely undressed. This case is pending investigation.

A complainant in the 1000 block of S. Riverside told police that an unknown suspect entered her unlocked vehicle and used the garage door opener to raise the garage door. There were no signs of forced entry and nothing was stolen. An investigation is pending.

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

Aug. 8

Police said that subsequent to the report of unknown suspects pulling on car door handles in the 300 block of Oak Lawn at 5:25 a.m., a reporting officer observed a vehicle parked in a driveway with the passenger door ajar. The victim related an unknown suspect entered her unlocked vehicle but is unsure if anything had been stolen.

A complainant in the 400 block of Highview told police that an unknown suspect entered her unlocked vehicle while it was parked on the driveway. A pair of sunglasses were stolen from the vehicle.

Aug. 4

A victim’s unlocked vehicle was stored in a parking lot in the 900 block of S. Route 83 with its keys inside. An unknown suspect took the vehicle and drove through a chain link fence, then left the vehicle parked on the 900 block of S. Riverside Drive. Pending further investigation.

Aug. 3-Aug. 4

A complainant in the 300 block of W. Grand

reported a motorcycle was missing from a secured lot. The motorcycle was later located in Chicago and towed back to the dealership by a private tow.

A victim’s vehicle was reported stolen from a truck repair lot in the 900 block of S. Riverside and was later located abandoned in Harwood Heights. An investigation is pending.

Aug. 3

A victim in the 900 block of S. York told police that an unknown suspect(s) stole their unattended wallet at the above location. A purchase was made with one of the victim’s cards along with other attempted transfers. An investigation is pending.

A complainant in the 900 block of S. Riverside reported an unknown suspect entered his unlocked vehicle while it was parked in the lot. The complainant related the vehicle’s key was taken; however, the vehicle does not start.

Aug. 2-Aug. 3

A complainant at a trucking company in the 600 block of Larch told police that an unknown suspect(s) removed a bronze 2019 international tractor off the lot at the above location. An investigation is pending.

Retail theft

Aug. 8

A complainant at a store in the 500 block of S. York told police at 5:11 a.m. that a suspect entered the store and asked to purchase two packs of cigarettes. As the complainant turned to retrieve a lighter, the suspect grabbed the cigarettes and a candy bar and fled the store. An investigation is pending.

Aug. 6

A complainant at a gas station in the 1000 block of N. York reported at 4:51 p.m. that an unknown suspect took a carton of cigarettes and ran out of the store without paying. A witness observed the suspect, described as a black male, as he ran eastbound on Grand Avenue before jumping a fence in the 100 block of E. Grand Ave. This case is pending investigation. A complainant at a pharmacy in the 100 block of N. Robert Palmer told police that two unknown suspects left the store with various merchandise that was not paid for. An investigation is pending.

Aug. 5

Police said that subsequent to a reported retail theft at a store in the 300 block of S. Route 83 at 4:41 p.m., it was discovered that four suspects—three described as black males and one described as a black female— took merchandise and left the store without paying. The suspects entered a red Hyundai Santa Fe and fled northbound on Route 83 from St Charles. This case is pending investigation.

Domestic battery, domestic incident, disorderly conduct, disturbance

Aug. 9

A victim at Elm Creek Drive told police at 9:27 p.m. an unnamed suspect pushed her and threatened her with pepper spray. The suspect was charged with domestic battery.

Aug. 8

A complainant in the 100 block of N. Addison told police at 6:34 a.m. he was involved in an argument with another patron who threatened him over the use of a leg workout machine. The reporting officer spoke with the other subject who denied threatening the complainant.

Two charged with robbing Lombard gas station at knifepoint Bond set at $1 million for each suspect

DuPage County State’s Attorney Robert Berlin and Lombard Chief of Police Tom Wirsing have announced that bond has been set for two Cook County residents accused of robbing a gas station at knifepoint.

David Bonner, 50, of Chicago, and Brianne Crannell, 22, of Park Ridge, each appeared at bond hearings where Judge Margaret O’Connell set bond at $1 million with 10 percent to apply for each defendant.

Both Bonner and Crannell have been charged with one count of armed robbery (Class X felony).

On Tuesday, Aug. 8 at approximately 7:02 a.m., the Lombard Police Department responded to a call of an armed robbery that had just occurred at the Marathon Gas Station in

the 900 block of E. Roosevelt Road.

Following an investigation into the matter, it is alleged that Crannell, Bonner and a third individual drove to the Marathon Gas Station. Crannell entered the gas station, purchased a bag of Cheetos, and returned to the car.

It is alleged that Bonner then entered the gas station with a ski mask covering his face. Bonner allegedly approached the gas station store clerk, brandished a knife, and took approximately $210 from the cash register and multiple boxes of cigarettes. Bonner then allegedly left the store, got back into the car with Crannell and the third individual and drove off.

It is alleged that the vehicle fled

from police onto I-290 east, where Bonner, Crannell, and the third individual then exited the car and fled on foot. All three were taken into custody after a short foot chase.

Police allegedly recovered a knife inside the vehicle.

“The allegations that these two defendants robbed a gas station store clerk at knifepoint in daylight hours are extremely serious,” Berlin said.

“Once again, the quick arrest of the defendants and the $1 million bonds set in this case send a strong message that violent crime will not be tolerated in DuPage County.”

The next court appearance for both defendants is scheduled Tuesday, Sept. 5 for arraignment in front of Judge McPherson.

Man accused of leaving the scene of a fatal accident

DuPage County State’s Attorney Robert Berlin, Woodridge Chief of Police Brian Cunningham and Lisle Chief of Police Kevin Licko announced that bond has been set for a Woodridge man accused of killing a person while driving drunk and leaving the scene of a fatal accident in which he was allegedly involved.

Salil Chander, 33, appeared at a bond hearing where Judge Michael Reidy set bond at $1 million with 10% to apply. Chander is charged with one count of leaving the scene of an accident causing death (Class 1 felony) and one count of aggravated DUI resulting in the death of another person (Class 2 felony).

On Sunday, Aug. 6 at approximately 5:05 p.m., Woodridge police officers responded to a 9-1-1 call of an allegedly intoxicated man walking around his house with a sword. At approximately 5:08 p.m., the caller notified officers that the individual, later identified as Chander, had left the home in a silver Kia. Approximately one minute later, the Kia allegedly struck a light pole on Nelson Court and continued driving to westbound Green Trails Drive.

It is alleged that Chander drove westbound in the 1900 block of Green Trails Drive when he veered into the eastbound lane of Green Trails Drive and struck 64-year-old Michael Norton of Naperville who was riding a bicycle, killing him. It is further alleged that after striking Norton with his vehicle, Chander continued to drive away.

An eyewitness to the crash called

9-1-1 and Woodridge police officers were on the scene within ten seconds of the call. Woodridge police officers located Chander approximately 3/10ths of a mile away near Green Trails Drive and Ridgewood Road where he was taken into custody.

It is alleged that at the time of the crash Chander’s BAC was 0.222.

“The allegations that after he had been drinking and with a BAC of nearly three times the legal limit, Mr. Chander got behind the wheel of his car, hit an innocent bicyclist, launching him into the air over the vehicle, and then, instead of stopping to render aid, fled the scene, are horrific,” Berlin said. “I offer my sincerest condolences to Mr. Norton’s family and friends as they mourn the loss of a beloved family member and friend.”

Chander’s next court appearance is scheduled Friday, Sept. 1 for arraignment in front of Judge Reidy.

Naperville man accused of indecent solicitation of a child

DuPage County State’s Attorney Robert B. Berlin and Lisle Chief of Police

Kevin Licko have announced that bond has been set for a 19-year-old man living in Naperville on a student visa accused of soliciting and attempting to meet a 12 year-old girl through text messages for the purpose of engaging in sexual acts.

Eziz Serdarow, 19, appeared in bond court in front of Judge Mia McPherson, who set bond at $100,000.

He was also ordered to surrender his passport as a condition of bond.

It is alleged that on Friday, Aug. 4, Serdarow sent a 12-year-old girl

unsolicited text messages, asking her to go on a walk and to send photos of herself to him. The victim told her parents about the text messages and her parents reported the incident to Lisle police.

Serdarow allegedly sent more messages to the victim’s phone, including photos of nude people engaging in sexual acts. Serdarow also allegedly sent a text to the victim’s phone indicating he wanted to have sex with her.

It is alleged Serdarow agreed to meet the victim in a park so he could drive her to his house to engage in sex. When Serdarow arrived at the park on Thursday, Aug. 10, Lisle police took him into custody.

After executing a search warrant on Serdarow’s car, police allegedly found condoms and lubricant in the

glove compartment.

“With text messaging and instant messaging functions, cell phones have become a part of the everyday lives of millions of people,” Berlin said. “Unfortunately, text messaging has also become a virtual electronic playground where sexual predators can hide behind the anonymity it provides.

“I encourage parents to talk to their children about cell phone safety and to instruct their children to be cautious when using text or instant messaging features.”

Serdarow has been charged with indecent solicitation of a child (Class 1 felony) and traveling to meet a minor (Class 3 felony).

Serdarow’s next court appearance is scheduled for Monday, Sept. 18 in front of Judge Mia McPherson for arraignment.

Salil Chander

Eziz Serdarow

Viewpoint

Slices of life

Sun and shade

I’ve always loved gardening. No, I’m going to take that a step further: I’ve always loved growing things.

Growing things—as in flowers, vegetables, friendships, babies and kids, this column, faith, my marriage, knowledge, compassion, kindness and most importantly love. And more, of course. There is always more to grow.

I’ve learned many insider tips and tricks about growing things over the years. Today I realized I’m still learning.

I’m in a new climate and meeting new neighbors. That’s a scenario ripe for learning potential.

I was recently talking with a neighbor. She has numerous plants in her yard that are common in this region, but completely new to me. I asked her about a couple—whether they liked sun or shade, water requirements, whether they were finicky or easy to grow, and so on.

“Oh, honey,” she said, “I just plant them. If they grow, they grow. If they don’t, they weren’t meant for my yard. They have to be happy to be here.”

I thought that was insightful and wise.

In my last house I had a large garden plot filled with shade. The owners before me planted roses. Rose plants thrive on sun and temperate winters. I had neither.

However, I did have an ample supply of small children at the time, which prevented me from treating my roses with the TLC they needed to survive in my yard.

So they perished. At the time, I thought: Any plant can grow in the sun. It takes something special to grow in the shade.

I replaced the roses with hostas. Hostas are a common perennial in the cool, dark climates that favor them, but apparently they aren’t as widespread as I thought. My autocorrect wants to change the word to “hostess,” so apparently they haven’t even made their way into some dictionaries.

For those unfamiliar, hostas are sort of leafy northern versions of large-leaved tropical plants. They typically grow in a round mound, with leaves flowing outward. They can be as small as six inches in diameter or as large as six feet -

By JILL PERTLER Columnist

and just as tall (or short). Cultivars have come up with hundreds (and probably thousands) of named varieties. I believe I had close to 40 or 50 different strains in my backyard.

It took years to build, and was one of the hardest things for me to leave when I sold my house.

But, there were other gardens to grow.

I moved from a plot of everpresent shade and ever-present winter (or so it seemed) to ever-present sun and ever-present warmth. I’ve looked around and there isn’t a hosta to be found in my new environment.

Apparently growing hostas in my yard now would be akin to growing roses in my old plot. With that comes the realization: Not every plant likes the shade. It takes something special to grow in the sun.

Herein lies the wisdom of my new neighbor. Not everything can grow everywhere. Plants have to be happy in their environment. You can try forcing them, like the people who planted the roses at my old house, but it’s always going to be a battle against nature—against the order of things.

The same goes for people. Sometimes we find the right amount of shade and cool temperatures; other times we seek the sun. Both are good. Both can be good.

Bottom line, we all get to figure out where we grow best. When it’s time to put down roots and when it’s time to replant and regrow—sunshine or shade or maybe even a little of both.

I’m not sure where that will take me, but for now, right here seems right, but I’m still learning. I hope I never stop.

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

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of the least to build an infrastructure that is dated and realistically at the end of its life,” Onqué told regulators. “I’m also alarmed that you have casually announced that this is just a $12 increase. This is not affordable for folks like me. This could be the difference between eating or getting to work that month.”

Peoples Gas has received criticism for its higher-than-average number of customers who are in debt to the company. In recent months, as many as one in five Peoples Gas customers have been more than a month behind on their bills.

Peoples Gas defends record

Peoples Gas defended its record on affordability by pointing to its support for government- and company-funded assistance programs.

“For our customers with low incomes several forms of financial assistance are available, including a fund to which we recently donated $5 million,” Peoples Gas spokesman David Schwartz said in an email statement. “Our team members were at the public meeting to provide in-person help to anyone looking to access the heating assistance funds.”

Peoples Gas has proposed a lowered rate for low-income households, something Schwartz noted “would provide help to many more people.”

The new scheme is the result of the Climate and Equitable Jobs Act, which required the ICC to study the best way to implement cost-saving measures for low-income utility customers. In their report on low-income utility rates, the ICC requested that

large utilities propose a system for charging low-income customers less than more wealthy customers.

Peoples Gas included its proposal to this effect in its current rate case, but consumer advocates from the National Consumer Law Center said the company’s proposal didn’t go far enough and have advocated for a different rate design scheme as part of their arguments in the case.

Environmentalists also asked the ICC to reject parts of Peoples Gas’ request, pointing out the environmental impacts of continued investment in natural gas. Natural Resources Defense Council advocate J.C. Kibbey said that the effects of climate change have been particularly visible in recent weeks, with Chicago seeing dangerous air quality due to wildfire smoke billowing down from Canada. Kibbey also pointed out that last month was among the hottest in recorded history.

“I know the commission can’t solve all these problems today, but these incredible harms should make us even more skeptical about the record-breaking spending that Peoples Gas wants us to pay for and it can help protect us from unwise spending and higher gas bills,” Kibbey said Tuesday.

Representatives of the Sierra Club and the People for Community Recovery also spoke at the hearing.

Schwartz noted in an email that Peoples Gas’ investments and research into things like “renewable natural gas” and hydrogen technology have reduced leaks in old pipelines and that since 2017, the company has

reduced methane emissions by more than 1,300 metric tons.

While they were in the minority, some offered comments in support of Peoples Gas’ requested increase. Donato Iocco, a Peoples Gas employee and vice president of Utility Workers Union of America Local 18007, noted that the increase would help continue the company’s pipeline replacement program.

Pipeline replacement program

That replacement program had previously, for about a decade, been funded through the state’s Qualified Infrastructure Plant program. Through that program, gas utilities recouped their costs on those projects through a formula-based process that allowed them to collect—and routinely increase—a customer fee without having to go through an 11-month rate case.

Now, with the QIP program set to expire, Peoples Gas is requesting funding to continue that program through the standard rate case process.

“I’ve been working on mains where it actually fell apart in my hand –caused a huge gas leak that I had to respond to, me and my crew,” Iocco said.

Ameren Illinois, an electric and gas utility serving downstate customers, has two ongoing rate cases before the ICC. It is seeking an increase on electric rates that could result in an increase of consumer bills as high as $25 per month by 2027. The company is also seeking a rate increase for their gas utility services that would increase customer bills by around $5 or $6 per month starting in January.

Activists (Continued from page 5)

8th annual Elmhurst Craft Beer Fest returns Sept. 16

Over 50 brewers coming to EHM grounds; discount tickets available through Sept. 8

Featuring craft beer, cider, mead, and seltzers from over 50 brewers, the 8th Annual Elmhurst Craft Beer Fest will make its return Saturday, Sept. 16 from 1 – 6 p.m. on the stunning grounds of the Elmhurst History Museum, 120 East Park Ave. The fest is hosted by the Elmhurst Heritage Foundation, the nonprofit fundraising arm for the Elmhurst History Museum and proceeds benefit the educational programs and exhibits for the museum and the Churchville School House.

Beer novices and aficionados alike will be able to enjoy a variety of brews from renowned brewers, many of which are from Elmhurst, including Elmhurst Brewing and Bottle Theory, and others, such as Afterthought, Goldfinger and Revolution. Giving fest attendees a chance to relax while sampling their favorite beverage, PettyCash and Lake Effect will perform on the music stage throughout the afternoon. Tacos will be available for purchase onsite from Rigo’s Tacos.

“We are thrilled to bring the Elmhurst Craft Beer Fest back for the 8th year,” said Cathy Jordan of the Elmhurst Heritage Foundation. “Thanks to the dedication of our team and generous sponsors, this year will be our largest Fest to date, with over 50 breweries in attendance.

“Over the years the fest has grown into an amazing community event,

and we can’t wait to welcome everyone to enjoy an afternoon supporting the beautiful Elmhurst History Museum.”

Elmhurst Craft Beer Fest tickets may be purchased at www.elmhurstcraftbeerfest.com. Discounted tickets are available now, featuring $45 tickets and VIP, early entry tickets, allowing entry at noon for $55. After Sept. 8, admission tickets will be $55 and $70 for VIP entry. Tickets include a 3 oz. commemorative tasting glass, 18 drink tickets, live music, and light snacks. Designated driver tickets are $20. The first 200 attendees to arrive will also receive a $5 City Centre gift card that may be used after the fest in Elmhurst City Center restaurants.

Pints, owned by Kristi Blessing, 112 S. York Road, has supported the work of the Foundation for years and serves as the event sponsor. 2023 Platinum Sponsors include Lakeside Bank, Kelly Stetler Compass Real Estate, Elmhurst Bank, The Katris Law Group, The Hinton AgencyFarmers Insurance, and McGrath Elmhurst Toyota.

For additional information on the Elmhurst Craft Beer Fest, please visit elmhurstcraftbeerfest.com or follow us on social media at @ElmhurstCraftBeerFest on Facebook, @ elmhurstcraftbeerfest on Instagram, @BeerElmhurst on Twitter or on the Untappd app.

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SUBMITTED PHOTO Elmhurst Independent

These people enjoy a 3 ounce glass of craft beer – some with “pretzel necklaces” -- at last year’s Elmhurst Craft Beer Fest presented by the Elmhurst Heritage Foundation. This year’s event takes place on the afternoon of Saturday, Sept. 16 on the lawn of the Elmhurst History Museum. Discount tickets are available through Sept. 8 at elmhurstcraftbeerfest.com.

Bringing sweet and deliciousness to our friends in the western suburbs for 118 years. Celebrating our 8th Anniversary in Elmhurst on August 22nd!! We offer handmade Cannoli, Spumoni, Cookies, Coffee Cakes, Specialty Cakes, Gelato, Italian Ice, Pastries, Cake Pops, Cupcakes, Popcorn, Nostalgic Candy, Drinks and more!

544 S. Spring Rd., Elmhurst, IL 60126

We have a simple philosophy at Lakeside Bank. Every client has their own Lakeside Banker. Every business client. Every retail client. Their own Lakeside Banker. A professional you can call, email or text, anytime. Get to know your Lakeside Bank Elmhurst Team at 165 S. York Street. Stop by anytime or call VP, Market Manager Grace Demes directly at, 312-435-1625!

Tannins Wine Bar and Retail Shop has been locally owned and operated for over 20 years and has become a staple of the Elmhurst community. Tannins offers a great selection of both well known and small production wines at great prices. Tannins has also become a favorite place to enjoy not only great wine, but a large selection of beer, and a well crafted cocktail along with some small bites, cheese & charcuterie plates.

Julie, Vittorio (in back), Al, Daniela, Gayle and Jo look forward to making your day sweeter with our desserts and delicious coffee.

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Fitz’s Pub participates in ‘Supporting Women Wednesdays’

Business owner’s sites support women’s charities

By Jane Charmelo

FOR THE ELMHURST INDEPENDENT

Sometimes the roots of a worthwhile endeavor are formed from the seeds of an idea, and that could be said about Brendan Fitzharris. That idea has turned into a charitable mission, “Supporting Women Wednesdays,” according to Fitzharris, owner of six dining and drinking establishments, from Melrose Park to St. Charles. Among them is Fitz’s Pub in Elmhurst.

As Fitzharris tells it, one of his bartenders had taken a photo of herself standing on a stump next to a picture of the day’s specials at Fitz’s Irish Bulldog in Villa Park— which ended up drawing attention and then support from other customers—who themselves started taking pictures on the stump.

It got Fitzharris to thinking about women’s charities, and he remembers saying to himself, “Maybe we could do something more.”

“I was looking for charities … where all the money goes to the charity,” he said, and decided to fo -

cus on charities related to women’s causes.

“I decided to take it a step further and started donating 10 percent of our Wednesday sales from all our locations to a different women’s charity or organization every month.”

Fitzharris said during June, more than $3,000 was raised for No More, which he said is an Illinois-based nonprofit whose goal is “to end domestic violence and sexual assault.”

In July, the Wednesday proceeds raised nearly $3,100 to benefit Family Rescue, which Fitzharris said is also Illinois-based and which is “dedicated to eliminating domestic violence by providing comprehensive support and shelter to victims of domestic violence.”

This month, the Wednesday proceeds will be going to Hair & Hope, which provides “cold caps” for women to help save their hair while undergoing treatment for cancer.

BRENDAN FITZHARRIS PHOTO Elmhurst Independent Business owner Brendan Fitzharris is promoting Supporting Women Wednesdays as a way to raise money for charities and organizations that focus on women’s needs.

EAM announces Picasso: Fifty Years Later opens Sept. 9

Includes lecture series, an evening Soirée and art auction, family-friendly artmaking

The Elmhurst Art Museum announces the programming for Picasso: Fifty Years Later, inviting visitors of all ages to engage with Pablo Picasso’s work, lasting influence, and legacy.

Programs complementing the exhibition reflect on both lasting impressions and new interpretations of Picasso, including lectures by speakers from a variety of backgrounds, and art-making activities for families to create their own works inspired by the famed artist. Picasso: Fifty Years Later takes place at the Elmhurst Art Museum from Saturday, Sept. 9 to Sunday, Jan. 7, 2024.

Through Picasso: Fifty Years Later, the Elmhurst Art Museum is participating in the worldwide Picasso 1973-2023 Celebration, timed to coincide with the 50th anniversary of Pablo Picasso’s death in 1973.

One of numerous exhibitions taking place across the US and around the globe, Picasso: Fifty Years Later reflects on the artist in three parts: a section dedicated to introducing Picasso in the context of his contemporaries such as Alexander Archipenko, Wilfredo Lam, Fernand Léger, and Joan Miró; a gallery exploring the demanding process of Picasso’s printmaking; and a presentation of contemporary figurative artists including Laura Berger, Liz Flores, Richard Hull, Leasho Johnson, and José Lerma.

Includes Linocut prints from private collection

A highlight of Picasso: Fifty Years Later is the debut of Picasso and the Progressive Proof: Linocut Prints from a Private Collection, a gallery-sized exhibition within the exhibition curated by Richard P. Townsend. Picasso and the Progressive Proof features

seventeen progressive proofs showing the detailed steps--and demanding printmaking processes--that allowed Picasso to experiment with recurring themes throughout his career.

Following its presentation at the Elmhurst Art Museum, Picasso and the Progressive Proof: Linocut Prints from a Private Collection exhibition will travel to the Oklahoma City Museum of Art (Aug. 2024), Hilliard Art Museum at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette (Feb. 2025), and Vero Beach Museum of Art (Oct. 2025), accompanied by a full color exhibition catalogue.

Co-curated by John McKinnon and Richard P. Townsend, Picasso and the Progressive Proof: Linocut Prints from a Private Collection is organized by Townsend Art Advisory LLC.

The Presenting Sponsor is Wintrust Bank with additional sponsorship by Anonymous, Sally J. and Raymond J. Allen, Marcia Goltermann, Gigi and James Owens, Tony and Mary Ann Pasquinelli Foundation, Gary Metzner and Scott Johnson, Discover DuPage, the Illinois Office of Tourism, and Lakeside Bank. This program is partially supported by a grant from the Illinois Arts Council Agency.

Upcoming programs

All programs are free with timed ticket reservation unless otherwise noted:

Sunday, Sept. 17 at 1 p.m.

Conversation with Liz Flores

The Elmhurst Art Museum presents a conversation with exhibiting artist Liz Flores. She will share processes and concepts guiding her work, as well as how she sees Picasso’s experiments challenged, furthered, and broken since his passing fifty years ago.

Saturday, Sept. 23 from 1 – 4 p.m.

Family Day: Picasso & Pastels

Drawing inspiration from the rich works found in Picasso: Fifty Years Later, families are invited to create unique still life paintings with oil pastels.

Saturday, Sept 30 at 6 p.m.

Soirée 2023

he Elmhurst Art Museum celebrates an extraordinary year—including two blockbuster exhibitions and a $1.1 million renovation— with a special evening including cocktails, a

multi-course dinner, entertainment, and an art auction. This year’s Soirée décor will be inspired by the work of Liz Flores, a painter and muralist originally from Berwyn, Ill., whose work is on view in Picasso: Fifty Years Later There are more programs in October, November and December.

The Museum is open Wednesday and Thursday from 12 – 5 p.m., Friday through Sunday, 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. Regular admission prices are $18 for adults (ages 18+), $15 for seniors, $10 for students, and $5 for children. For more information, call 630-834-0202 or visit elmhurstartmuseum.org.

Elmhurst Public Library programs

Friday, Aug. 18 from 2-4 p.m.

Friday Features: The Mummy

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

Saturday, Aug. 19 from 10 a.m.-12 p.m. Canasta

Join us for a friendly game of Canasta every week. Prior experience is required. Live in-person. No registration.

Saturday, Aug. 19 from 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

Local Author Fair

Meet local authors who discuss, answer questions, sell, and sign copies of their books. No registration required.

Sunday, Aug. 20 from 1-3 p.m.

Plant Swap

Meet in the Library parking lot and trade pest-free plants, including houseplants, potted plants, cuttings, succulents, and more. Plant swaps are a great way to start a new hobby or for expert gardeners to add more variety to their collections. Live in-person. No registration required.

Monday, Aug. 21 from 7-8:30 p.m.

Ciao Italia!

Improve your Italian language skills while

exploring a different aspect of Italian culture each month. All skill levels welcome. Live in-person and virtually on Zoom. Registration required.

Tuesday, Aug. 22 from 1-3 p.m. Bridge and Pinochle

Enjoy an afternoon of card games every week. Prior experience is required. No registration required.

Tuesday, Aug. 22 from 6:30-7:30 p.m. Black Holes: Hungry for the Universe Learn about black holes and how they devour stars and galaxies. Live in-person. Registration required.

Wednesday, Aug. 23 from 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

American Mah Jongg: Open Play Gather every Wednesday for American Mah Jongg, a game of skill, strategy, calculation, and a certain amount of chance. Live in-person. No registration required.

Wednesday, Aug. 23 from 6-7:30 p.m. Excel Advanced Topics

Learn advanced features of Excel including PMT, XLookup, Pivot Tables, and more. Live in-person. Registration with an EPL card required.

Pablo Picasso, Bacchanal with Kid Goat and Onlooker, 1959, linocut proof © 2023 Estate of Pablo Picasso / Artists Rights Society (ARS), New York.

SUBMITTED PHOTO Elmhurst Independent

Obituaries

Arthur Schneider

Arthur Schneider, 70, of Elmhurst, succumbed to complications of blood cancer on Saturday, August 5, 2023.

Art was born and raised in the northern suburbs of Chicago. He earned an undergraduate degree from Purdue University, and later obtained master’s degrees in accounting and taxation from DePaul University in Chicago.

In 1976, Art joined “Big 4” accounting firm KPMG. He became a partner in 1986 and spent a total of 24 years in KPMG’s Chicago operating office and Washington D.C. National Tax Practice. In 2000, Art joined Transamerica Life Insurance Company as Senior Vice President and Chief Tax Officer and he remained with Transamerica until retirement at the end of 2017. After retirement, Art worked as a part-time tax consultant for a life insurance industry trade group.

Art’s outside interests included golf, sports and travel. He particularly loved traveling to Maui and the other Hawaiian Islands. He was a long-time season ticket holder of the Chicago Bears and a lifelong (from age 5) fan of the Chicago Cubs. Combining his interests in sports and travel, Art and his son Rick visited, over a period of years, every major league baseball stadium in the country.

Art is survived by his wife of 45 years, Mary Ellyn, daughter Steffani (Luke) Zavala, son Rick (Megan), grandsons Nathan, Oscar “Ozzie,” and Collin Arthur, and sister Mindy Dunbar and her family of Denver.

Visitation was held Thursday, August 10, 2023 from 8:00 a.m. until prayers 10:00 a.m. at Pedersen Ryberg Funeral Home 435 N. York Street, Elmhurst, IL

Funeral Mass was held on Thursday, August 10, 2023 at Queen Of All Nations Catholic Church, 4940 Washington St, Hillside, IL 60162.

In lieu of flowers or other donations, the family requests contributions to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society at lls.org.

Barbara E. Nelson

Barbara E. Nelson, age 89, passed away August 8, 2023. She was born January 23, 1934 in Oak Park to the late Harvey and the late Ellen Trotter.

Beloved wife to the late Joseph Nelson Jr.; loving mother to Joe, the late Jim, John (Siobhan), Jeff (Debbie), Jill and Jerry (Heide); cherished grandmother of Jessica (Eric) Palm, John Nelson, Siobhan (Mike) Cunningham, David (Hanna) Nelson, Lauren Nelson and Ashley Nelson; dear great-grandmother of Lincoln, Sutton, Luke and Ella; dear sister of the late Joann (Joe) Flesch, the late Jim Trotter, the late Tom Trotter and Peggy (the late Chuck) Gillespie; further survived by many nieces and nephews.

A visitation was held from on Friday, August 11, 2023 from 3 – 7 p.m. at Elmhurst Community Funeral Home – THE AHLGRIM CHAPEL, 567 South Spring Road, Elmhurst. Mass of Christian Burial was held on Saturday, August 12, 2023 at 10 a.m. at Visitation Catholic Church, 779 South York Street, Elmhurst. Interment St. Mary Cemetery, Elmhurst.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be written to the American Cancer Society.

Arrangements in care of Elmhurst Community Funeral Home – THE AHLGRIM CHAPEL. For information, 630-834-3515 or www.elmhurstfh.com.

David Alexander Crooks

David Alexander Crooks, 71, of Elmhurst passed away peacefully on August 12, 2023. Dave is survived by his wife of 46 years Nancy (Jones) Crooks, sons Charles (Alison) Crooks of Iowa City and Ray (Nick Pupillo) Crooks of Elmhurst, and daughter Amanda Crooks of Elmhurst. Beloved Papa of Norah, Adeline, Bailey, Mittica, Nolan, Lucca, and Rocco. Dear brother to Bill (Jo) Crooks and the late Marjorie (Bryan) Cameron. Loving uncle, cousin, and friend to many more.

Dave, son of late Alec and Isa, was a graduate of Austin High school where he enjoyed playing football and baseball. He went on to have a career and passion in the automotive industry working as a body and fender mechanic for over 50 years, owning a body shop at one time. He shared 48 loving years with Nancy, creating a beautiful family together.

Dave loved watching the Chicago Cubs play ball, reading about history, bowling on leagues for many years, and enjoyed his morning coffee. He adored his 7 grandchildren and loved watching them grow up together.

Prior to starting a family, he traveled cross country on road trips with friends. He loved spending time with his amazing group of close friends. He was described as a kind man with such a good heart. He would talk to anyone about anything and seemed to always run into someone he knew.

His presence will be greatly missed in all of the lives he impacted.

Visitation was held on Tuesday August 15, 2023, from 3pm until 8pm and Funeral service was held on Wednesday August 16, 2023 10am.

Pedersen Ryberg Funeral Home 435 N York Street Elmhurst, IL 60126. Interment Mt. Emblem Cemetery. For Info 630-834-1133.

James M. Fischer

James M. Fischer, 80, of Bensenville, passed away peacefully on August 10, 2023.

Jim is survived by his wife and high school sweetheart of 62 years, Linda (Krecker) Fischer; sons Michael (Sue) Fischer of St.

Page 15

Worship Services

Community calendar

Pick of the Week History of Wheels Bike Tour of Elmhurst

Sunday, Aug. 20

Beginning at 11 a.m., the Elmhurst History Museum presents the History of Wheels Bike Tour. Bicyclists are invited to join a twowheeled tour of Elmhurst led by members of the Elmhurst Bicycle Club. Visit local historical spots of interest while pedaling Elmhurst’s streets and learn about local history from the Elmhurst History Museum staff. Approximately 1.5 hours duration. Appropriate for ages 10+ accompanied by an adult. Helmets and reservations are required. Fee: $5 per person. Info: elmhursthistory.org.

Thursday, Aug. 31

This is the last day of early-bird pricing ($30) for ordering an outdoor holiday tree from Foundation 205. Visit Foundation205.org. Proceeds benefit District 205 Schools.

Sunday, Sept. 3

Gather with us for weekend worship!

Heritage Foundation. Enjoy a variety of brews from renowned brewers, enjoy live music, tacos for sale by Rigo’s Tacos, and more. Tickets are $45 regular or $55 for VIP entry at 12 noon. (After Sept. 8, tickets increase to $55/$70)

Saturday, Sept 30

At 6 p.m., the Elmhurst Art Museum presents Soirée 2023, celebrating an extraordinary year. Guests are invited to a special evening including cocktails, a multi-course dinner, entertainment, and an art auction. This year’s Soirée décor will be inspired by the work of Liz Flores, a painter and muralist originally from Berwyn, Ill., whose work is on view in Picasso: Fifty Years Later. Tickets are $375 per person. For tickets and info call 630-834-0202 or visit elmhurstartmuseum.org.

To post a community event or club meeting, email the information to Independent@rvpublishing.com and put “Community Calendar” in the Subject line.

Elmhurst Farmers Market

Saturdays 5 p.m. Sundays 8:30 and 11 a.m. Education Hour between services at 9:45 a.m. Handicapped accessible and hearing loop

142 E. Third St. Elmhurst, IL ImmanuelElmhurst.org 630-832-1649

St. Timothy Evangelical Lutheran Church

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

Sunday Worship at 10:15 am

Sunday School & Bible Study 9am Wednesday Service at 7pm

Adult Bible Study Wednesdays after Service

Saturday, August 26 Game Night at 4pm Everyone is Welcome!

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The Elmhurst Walk-in Assistance Network (EWAN) presents its 9th annual cookoff ‘Cue for a Cause in the City parking lot at York and Vallette (behind the Knights of Columbus). Grillers will compete while the public is welcome to enjoy live music by three bands, Barbecue Jim’s and other food trucks, the root beer float stand, kids activities and more. Proceeds benefit EWAN. Info: elmhurstwalkin.org.

Monday, Sept. 4

Have a safe and enjoyable Labor Day!

Saturday, Sept. 16

From 1-6 p.m. the 8th annual Elmhurst Craft Beer Fest will take place on the grounds of the Elmhurst History Museum, hosted by the Elmhurst

ARE MULTI-FOCAL LENSES RIGHT FOR ME?

Refractive errors in eyesight occur when the shape of the eyeball or cornea prevents light from focusing correctly on the retina. Refractive errors cause nearsightedness, farsightedness, astigmatism, and presbyopia (age-related farsightedness). Many people have more than one type of refractive error, and this is where multifocal lenses can help. They correct near, middle, and distance vision without switching between multiple pairs of glasses or contact lenses. The different focusing powers are blended together for a more seamless transition between different distances. Bifocals are the most common kind of multifocal lens, but they also include trifocals and progressive lenses. Anyone with one or more refractive errors who often shifts from one distance vision to another can benefit from multifocal lenses. It will probably take you a couple of weeks or more to adjust to your new lenses. Suggestions for wearing multifocal lenses include not looking at your feet when walking and holding reading material closer to your body and lowering your eyes so that you are reading out of the lowest part of your lenses. Wearing them as much as you can for the first couple of weeks will speed up the adjustment period. When it’s time to make the all-important choice for the best frames to fit your budget and style, look to SKOWRON EYE CARE! At Skowron Eye Care,our mission is your vision P.S. Multifocal lenses, particularly progressive lenses, require an adjustment period in which your eyes become better trained to quickly transition from one visual distance to another.

Tickets include 3 oz. tasting glass, 18 drink tickets, light snacks. Designated driver tickets are $20. Info: elmhurstcraftbeerfest.com.

Sunday, Sept. 17

At 1 p.m., the Elmhurst Art Museum presents a conversation with exhibiting artist Liz Flores in conjunction with the Picasso: Fifty Years Later exhibit. She will share processes and concepts guiding her work, as well as how she sees Picasso’s experiments challenged, furthered, and broken since his passing 50 years ago.

Free with timed ticket reservation. Info: 630-834-0202 or elmhurstartmuseum.org.

Saturday, Sept. 23

From 1 – 4 p.m., drawing inspiration from the rich works found in Picasso: Fifty Years Later, families are invited to Family Day: Picasso & Pastels at the Elmhurst Art Museum to create their own still life paintings with oil pastels. Info: 630-834-0202 or elmhurstartmuseum.org.

Every Wednesday from now through October, the Elmhurst Farmers Market will be open from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the municipal lot on Vallette St., one half block east of York St. Fresh fruits, vegetables, flowers, honey, cheese, bread, hummus, much more. Info: elmhurstfarmersmarket. com.

Elmhurst History Museum

A new exhibit, The Bicycle: Two Wheels to Adventure, is currently on display through Sept. 17. Learn about the many ways this 19th-century invention significantly impacted Chicagoland manufacturing, transportation, and infrastructure, and how the bicycle redefined an era of new-found leisure and independence. Info: elmhursthistory.org or call 630-833-1457.

Elmhurst Art Museum

FINAL WEEK: Now and through Sunday, Aug. 20, Marvelocity; The Art of Alex Ross is on display at the Elmhurst Art Museum. Info: elmhurstartmuseum.org or 630-8340202.

Deadline is looming for the grillers

EWAN’s ‘Cue for a Cause participants must register by Aug. 20

It’s time once again for local grill masters to put their skills to the test by registering to compete in the 2023 ‘Cue for a Cause, benefitting the Elmhurst Walk-in Assistance Network (EWAN).

The deadline for grill masters to register as a team is Sunday, Aug. 20. To register, go to elmhurstwalkin. org/cue. Space is limited, so sign up now.

The event will take place on Sunday, Sept. 3 in the City parking lot at York and Vallette (behind the Knights of Columbus).

Teams can compete in ribs, chicken, and sauce, but to win the Grand Champion mega-trophy, the $250 cash prize, and major bragging rights, they must compete in all three categories.

The 9th annual cookoff provides

the perfect backdrop for Elmhurst residents to come together for summer’s last hurrah. Three live bands— School of Rock, Common Area Maintenance, and Forget Hannah— will play throughout the day.

This year will bring a full complement of food trucks. Barbeque Jim will be back with his award-winning barbeque, and will be joined by grilled cheese, taco, and pizza trucks.

The root beer float stand will be back in action as well. Kids will enjoy an inflatable slide, face painting, balloon twisting, crafts and more.

Attendees will also have the chance to win raffle prizes and silent auction bids.

Proceeds from the event go to benefit EWAN. In its 25 years of operation, EWAN has provided nearly 1.75 million dollars in financial assistance to Elmhurst neighbors in need.

For more information about EWAN or the ‘Cue, visit elmhurstwalkin.org.

Charles and Richard (Chris) Fischer of Bensenville; daughters Donna (Don) Wilbur of Elmhurst, Dianne (Mike) Falco of Elmhurst and Deb (Jason) Baumann of Wood Dale. Grandfather of Jim (Sara) Fischer, David (Lena) Fischer and Danny Fischer, Tom, Kaitlyn and Mary Fischer, Natalie (Colin) Hohman and Zachary Wilbur, Michael, Melanie and Mark Falco, and Ava Baumann. Great-grandfather of Colton, Kailey and Lainey. Dear brother of Arlene Lowe, Maralyn (Rheine) Grischow, the late Carole (Wayne) Moschini, Jean (Jack) Jablonski and Carl (Kathy) Fischer, and many cousins, nieces and nephews.

Jim, son of the late Monroe and Edna Fischer, grew up in Wood Dale, Illinois, and attended Fenton High School. He was a life-long business owner, Water Well Driller, Rupp Snowmobile dealer and Harley Davidson dealer. He had a love for Jesus, NHRA, Harleys, snowmobiling, cars, tractors, farming, fishing, boating, Frosted Flakes with half and half, and roller coasters (The Raging Bull was his favorite). He tinkered with and could fix just about anything. Jim and Linda were married on August 12, 1961, honeymooned in Wisconsin Dells and frequently visited Ishnala Supper Club. They enjoyed decades of back-and-forth trips to their cottage in Wisconsin, creating over 50 years of memories with family and friends. He adored his 12 Grandchildren and 3 Great-Grandchildren. He found delight in teaching his grandkids to do “naughty” things, which his kids would laugh about. “DAD!!!??!”

Jim was a wonderful provider to his family; he was never cheap, always saying, “Spend the money.” He had countless friends with whom he enjoyed traveling on motorcycle trips, cruises and frequent stops at casinos. It was entertaining to witness the comradery between him and his friend of over 60 years, Tom Derrico. Jim could strike up a conversation with anyone, anywhere and seemed to always know someone wherever he went. He was exhausting to everyone around him, as he was non-stop from sunup till sundown, outworking everyone helping him, whether it be cutting trees, picking up sticks or mowing the lawn. He never quit! Even as his health declined these past few years, he continued to mow the lawn and plow his cornfield at all hours of the day and sometimes night. When the day was done, he’d sit in his chair, put on clean overalls and say, “Let’s go out for prime rib and pink squirrels.”

He had a large presence in the lives of his friends and family and he will be missed incredibly.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to Zion Lutheran Church, Bensenville, Illinois.

Fr. Don McLaughlin

Fr. Don McLaughlin was born into eternal life Sunday, August 6, 2023 surrounded by his nephews and dear friends. He was many things to many people - pastor, brother, minister, uncle, friend. He spent his youth playing “priest” and preparing for a future dedicated to caring for others. It was no surprise to his loved ones when he

was ordained on October 10, 1981 by Bishop Joseph L. Imesch at the Cathedral of St. Raymond in Joliet, IL. He served as a priest and pastor for over 40 years and recently retired as pastor of Our Lady of Mercy, Aurora, IL. He was a beloved servant of the following parish communities in the Diocese of Joliet: St. Margaret Mary, Naperville as transitional deacon and priest (1981-1982); St. Alexander, Villa Park (1982-1985); St. Philip the Apostle, Addison (1985-1989); St. Water, Roselle (1989-1990); St. Charles Borromeo, Bensenville where he received his first pastorate (1993-2001); St. Michael, Wheaton where he led the rebuilding project after a fire destroyed the church in 2002 (2001-2012); St. Thomas the Apostle, Naperville (2012-2017); and most recently Our Lady of Mercy, Aurora (2017-2022). Upon retirement in 2022, Fr. Don hoped to travel to Sonoma, California, but his plans were waylaid by the illness that eventually took his life. Throughout the decline of his health, Don was grateful to the many friends, parishioners, and family members who visited with him, called, prayed for him, and sent well wishes, and he prayed for them in return.

Aside from his pastoral duties, Fr. Don was volunteer chaplain for the Chicago Bears for the 1983-84 seasons and volunteer chaplain for the Wheaton Fire Department 20042012. He also served on various diocesan committees.

Those who knew Fr. Don witnessed his expansive love of wine, travel, and theater. Fr. Don appreciated the beauty in the world around us and the creativity of humanity. Fr. Don was funny, joyful, and generous. His impact is far reaching and he will

be remembered for his passion, humor, and excellent homilies.

We will always be reminded of what Fr. Don said following the fire that destroyed St. Michael Church, “We did not lose the Church. We lost the building where the Church gathers. We are the Church.” The Church mourns the loss of this shepherd who guided so many flocks during his prosperous years of ministry.

Born February 16, 1952 and raised in Indianapolis, IN he is predeceased by his parents Thomas E. McLaughlin and Dorothy Birdwell; stepmother, Evelyn Calloway; stepmother, Sylvia Miller; Brother Thomas Joel McLaughlin. Survived by nephews Joel McLaughlin, Scott (Barb) McLaughlin; Daniel (Tayna) McLaughlin; niece Kathleen (Kevin) Walsh and many grandnieces and grandnephews and cousins.

A special word of thanks to the staff at St. Patrick’s Residence where Fr. Don lived, the Carmelite Sisters who’s care and love for him were unfailing, the nurses, doctors and staff at AccentCare Hospice, Naperville, IL and his oncology team at Northwestern Medicine Cancer Center, Warrenville, IL.

Visitation was Thursday, August 10, 2023, from 4 to 7:30 p.m. followed by a Vigil Service at 7:30 p.m. at Our Lady of Mercy Parish, 701 S. Eola Rd., Aurora, IL. Additional visitation was from 9 a.m. to 10:45 a.m. Friday, August 11, 2023 followed by a Funeral Mass 11 a.m. at St. Michael Catholic Church 310 S. Wheaton Ave., Wheaton, IL 60187. Livestream of Funeral Mass - https:// www.youtube.com/watch?v=emwVxg_7sBw

Interment to follow at St. Michael Cemetery, Wheaton.

Info @https://www.pedersenryberg.com/obituaries/Don-Mclaughlin.

In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to the Hesed House, 659 S. River Rd, Aurora, IL, 60506 https:// www.hesedhouse.org/ or the Diocese of Joliet Catholic Education Foundation, 16555 Weber Rd., Crest Hill, IL, 60403 https://schools.diojoliet. org.

John “Jack”

Philip Vetter

John “Jack”

Philip Vetter, of Elmhurst, passed away August 7, 2023, at home while he was tenderly held and cared for by Carol, his devoted wife of 67 years. Born on August 12, 1937, in Marathon City, Wisconsin, Jack was a humble man of faith, committed to his family whom he valued above all else.

Jack and Carol were married in Green Bay, WI. The couple moved to Chicago at the start of their life together. They raised three children, Mark, Jackie, and Paul. Jack proudly supported his family as he developed his career with the Edward Hines Lumber Company where he worked for 52 years. Originally working as a laborer in one of the company lumberyards, Jack rose to the position of senior vice president, holding that position for over 30 years until his retirement in 2008.

A lifelong Green Bay Packers fan and proud season ticket holder, Jack’s other activities included volunteering for his parish, spending time at his beloved Wisconsin lake home, traveling with friends, playing

tennis, and enjoying his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Jack is preceded in death by his parents, Arnold and Margaret Vetter, his siblings Janet Cartier, Audrey Lynch, and Tom. He is survived by his wife Carol, children Mark (Sue), Jackie (the late Michael) Osterhout, and Paul (Tanya Romas); his grandchildren Sarah (Brian) Aalto, Amy, Jon, Christian, Steve, Katie; his great-grandchildren Natalie, Jack, and Rachel, and step granddaughter Olivia.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to The Sr. Thomas Leo Fund at Visitation School, Visitation Parish, 779 S. York St, Elmhurst, IL 60126 or to The Shriners Hospital for Children, 4400 Clayton Ave, St. Louis, MO 63110

A visitation will be held on Saturday, August 26, 2023, from 9:00 am until the time of the Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00 am at Visitation Catholic Church, 779 S. York St., Elmhurst, IL. Interment to follow at St. Mary Cemetery, 310 Alexander Blvd., Elmhurst, IL. Arrangements in care of Elmhurst Community Funeral Home – THE AHLGRIM CHAPEL.

For Information: (630) 834-3515 or www.elmhurstfh.com.

Paul Schrik

Paul Schrik passed away at the age of 70.

Paul was born on Friday May 22, 1953, in Elmhurst, IL, to Richard and Betty Schrik. As the third eldest among his siblings,

Announcements

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

Burial Needs

7 CEMETERY PLOTS Willing to sell as a group or individually. Located at Roselawn Memory Gardens 3045 WI-67, Lake Geneva, WI 53147. This is a private sale. Contact Randy, the seller at randy@slpublishers.com.

Gutters

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

(Continued from page 11)

Elmhurst woman’s charity chosen recipient

When she learned about Supporting Women Wednesdays, Patti Marino, a regular at Fitz’s Pub in Elmhurst, suggested Fitzharris consider Hair & Hope, founded by her daughter Courtney Carlstrom in 2022.

Marino, who is also involved in the nonprofit, explained how her daughter was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2020, and insurance would not cover the cost of cold caps.

Carlstrom said that it is a difficult and a time-consuming process to get cold caps covered by insurance, and they cost an average of $2,500.

That is partly why she started the nonprofit organization last year. She remembers not wanting her own sons to be scared of seeing their mom lose her hair.

Hair & Hope held its first fundraiser in October 2022 and raised more than $25,000, Carlstrom said.

“It was a great success,” she said, noting it provided roughly 16 patients obtain cold caps.

The charity also partners with Illinois Masonic Hospital, but “We take on patients from everywhere,” Carlstrom said.

When asked how she felt that Fitzharris chose her organization to benefit from Supporting Women Wednesdays, Carlstrom responded, “It’s surreal,” adding that with such a new charity, “I thought it would be harder to find generous people.”

“You don’t realize how many [people] are willing to help. I’m just so thankful.”

“We were lucky enough to get chosen,” Marino said, adding that she and her friends intend to go to each of Fitzharris’ establishments at least once, and of course, on a Wednesday, to support the organizations.

Fitzharris said the September recipient is slated to be Zelda’s Kitchen Witches, a nonprofit that helps stock kitchen shelves and counters with utensils, appliances, etc. in transitional housing units.

He said he plans to keep Supporting Women Wednesdays going “at least until the end of the year.”

“We would like to keep these donations going for many years to come, but we need the support of our customers and community to keep it going.

“All we need them to do is spread the word and come out to any of our locations on Wednesdays for lunch, dinner and/or drinks,” Fitzharris said, adding that Fitz’s Pub in Elmhurst and Throwback Sports Bar and Scratch Kitchen in St. Charles host trivia nights on Wednesdays as well.

Other locations include Fitz’s Irish Bulldog, Villa Park; Fitz’s Thirsty Irishman, Glendale Heights; Punky’s Pub, Lombard; and Bets on Broadway, Melrose Park.

For more information about Hair & Hope, visit hairandhope.org.

LEGAL NOTICES

property is located within the C2 Community Shopping and Service District.

CASE

23 P 08

Request for Conditional Use Permit for a Planned Unit Development with Site Development Allowances

Notice is hereby given that the Elmhurst Zoning and Planning Commission/Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing on Tuesday, September 5, 2023, at 7:00 p.m., in the Elmhurst City Hall, 209 N. York Street, Elmhurst, Illinois. The purpose of this hearing is to consider a request by Curt Pascoe, Ryan Companies US, Inc. on behalf of Elmhurst Memorial Health, Kimberley Darey, MD, President, for a Conditional Use Permit for a Preliminary Planned Unit Development for a medical office building and Final Planned Unit Development for a parking lot with Site Development Allowances pursuant to Sections 22.26 and 22.31 of the Elmhurst Zoning Ordinance at the property commonly known as 1100 S. York Street, Elmhurst, Illinois for the purpose of constructing a medical office building and parking lot.

Following is a legal description of the subject property:

LOT 2 IN THE FINAL MODIFIED PLAT OF SUBDIVISION OF ELMHURST MEMORIAL HEALTHCARE YORK STREET CAMPUS, ELMHURST, DUPAGE COUNTY, ILLINOIS, BEING PART OF THE SOUTHWEST QUARTER OF SECTION 13, TOWNSHIP 39 NORTH, RANGE 11 EAST OF THE THIRD PRINCIPAL MERIDIAN, ACCORDING TO THE PLAT THEREOF RECORDED SEPTEMBER 1, 2010, AS DOCUMENT NUMBER R2010114887.

PIN: 06-13-305-018

The common street address is 1100 S. York Street, Elmhurst, IL. The subject

If you have any questions regarding this case, please contact the Community Development Department at 630-530-3121.

NOTE: Any person who has a disability requiring a reasonable accommodation to participate in this meeting, should contact Emily Wagner, ADA Compliance Officer, Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., City of Elmhurst, 209 N. York Street, Elmhurst, IL 60126, or call 630-530-8095 TDD, within a reasonable time before the meeting. Requests for a qualified interpreter require five (5) working days’ advance notice.

Eileen Franz, City Planner

(Published in The Elmhurst Independent Aug. 17, 2023)

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Sport S

Elmhurst Youth Baseball reaches Little League Great Lakes Region title game Squad falls one game short of berth in famed Williamsport international tournament

By Mike Miazga CORRESPONDENT

The Elmhurst Youth Baseball 12U all-star team concluded its fabulous run through the Little League playoffs, falling one win shy of a trip to the famed Little League World Series in Williamsport, Pennsylvania. Elmhurst, which won the Little League Illinois state championship earlier this month, lost 4-0 to New Albany Little League, the Ohio state champion, in the title game of the Great Lakes Region tournament held at the Little League Headquarters Complex in Whitestown, Indiana. Ohio advances to this week’s Little League World Series.

The game was delayed a day due to inclement weather. The two teams, which had squared earlier in the Great Lakes tournament, played to a scoreless tie through 3 1/2 innings in a game broadcast live on ESPN2 before Ohio scored all of its runs in the bottom of the fourth. Elmhurst had two hits in the game. Xander Escarpita was 1-for-2, while Emmett Thompson was 1-for-2 as well. Liam Larma stole a base. Dominic Ramos pitched the first four innings and struck out four, while allowing only four hits. Joey Pointon pitched the fifth inning and struck out two.

Earlier, Elmhurst reached the Great Lakes title game with an 8-4

win over that same Ohio team. Elmhurst pounded out 14 hits, getting out to a 3-0 lead after a half-inning and 4-2 after 1 1/2 innings. Elmhurst increased its lead to 7-4 with three runs in the fourth inning. Larma went 3-for-3 with two runs scored and an RBI. Escarpita went 2-for-3 with a run scored. Pointon went 2-for-3 with a run scored. Patrick Boeh went 1-for-2 with a run scored and an RBI. Liam Campbell went 1-for-2 with two RBI. Larma and Escarpita each had two doubles, while Tanner Telford, Thompson, Dominic Martinello and Michael Wente each had a double. Pointon pitched the first 1 2/3 innings and struck out two. Campbell

pitched 2/3 of an inning, while Xander Escarpita pitched 3 1/3 innings and struck out six while allowing only one hit. Dominic Martinello pitched the final 1/3 of an inning.

Elmhurst started the Great Lakes tournament with a 13-1 win over the Indiana state champion in a game that was stopped after four innings due to the slaughter rule. Elmhurst left no doubt immediately, registering eight runs in the first inning and then tacked on five more in the bottom of the third. Elmhurst had nine hits. Dominic Martinello went 2-for2 with two runs scored and two RBI. Caleb Leynes went 2-for-2 with a run scored and three RBI. Pointon went

1-for-2 with two runs scored and two RBI. Telford had a run scored and two RBI. Campbell went 1-for-2 with an RBI. Martinello had a double, while Pointon had a triple. Larma went 1-for-1 with two runs scored and one RBI. Reid Gabuzda and Boeh each drew two walks. Ramos, Martinello, Pointon and Campbell combined to strike out nine batters and walk none in four innings of work. New Albany Little League will square off with Southern California on Aug. 17 at 6 p.m. Central at the Little League World Series in Williamsport live on ESPN2. Southern California won the West Region title over Northern California.

A productive summer for Timothy Christian girls basketball team Trojans

after mass graduations

By Mike Miazga CORRESPONDENT

With a large number of seniors having graduated from last year’s team, Timothy Christian girls basketball coach Jill Groenewold knew this summer season would be one of importance. “It’s like starting over,”

U12 baseball action

she said. “We are extremely young after graduating six seniors who participated in a lot of things and we the building blocks for four years. We are going to be very young.”

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

So, Groenewold, her staff and the players got to work. “It was a lot of reteaching and a lot of simplifying and

Member

The York boys golf team opened the 2023 season by winning the IC Catholic Prep invitational at The Preserve at Oak Meadows in Addison. York shot 313 to win it. Will Huber took second with a 75 and Brendan Carroll was the third-place medalist with a 77.

Barr was the recipient of the 2019-2020 York Val Cothern junior female athlete of the year award. Barr went over the 1,000-career kill threshold last fall for the Dukes girls volleyball team and still has a season to add to that total.

learning situations,” she said. “That’s OK. The kids have been great, they worked hard and had great attitudes. Again, we’re very young. We don’t have that experience level from years past.” Sami Drye and Taylor Parker are the only two Trojans with varsity-level playing experience. “We got a lot done,” Groenewold said. “In the games we played, we created a lot of havoc with some full-court pressure and some presses and got a lot of turnovers off that. We are kind of feeling it out still a little bit. We also have a lot of quickness, which is a good thing to have.” Groenewold also was pleased with the progress incoming freshman Elizabeth van den Berg made. “Elizabeth had a great summer for us in the post,” she said. “That’s a great sign.”

The Trojans played in the Lisle summer league. “We didn’t win a game, but we were in a lot of games,

which is what we would have expected. It was a building summer, so we took it really easy with the amount of games. We had our camps and played until the end of June and that was that. We also have a lot of multi-sport athletes, so we were sharing players. That kind of comes into play as well.”

Groenewold also had praise for incoming sophomore Maria Pozdol Niego. “Maria is our new point guard and played fairly consistently, too,” she said. “She will be taking over for Maddie (Drye) and Mili Martens, so her play is an encouraging sign for us. She’s a young sophomore.”

Overall, Groenewold liked what she saw during the summer slate. “It was a huge learning curve from running the court and learning an offense together,” she explained. “The kids never really played together, and they got a feel for each other. They worked

hard in camp putting things into play. We are young and young eventually matures. We are on the upward slope.”

Also new for Timothy Christian is the conference it is playing in this season. The Trojans are part of the new Chicagoland Christian Conference that features Aurora Christian, Chicago Hope Academy, Chicago Christ the King, Elgin St. Edward, Bishop McNamara out of Kankakee, Chicago Christian, Wheaton Academy and Woodstock Marian Central. “The conference will be interesting,” Groenewold said. “There will be a lot of traveling. Some of these schools we don’t have a feel for yet. We haven’t seen tape or games here and there. This was the best fit for us and we will give it a try.” With the 10 schools, each team plays each other once prior to an end-of-the-year double-elimination conference tournament.

IC Catholic Prep boys golf team opens season with third-place finish

By Mike Miazga CORRESPONDENT

The IC Catholic Prep boys golf team kicked off the 2023 season by finishing third at its own IC Catholic Prep invitational held at The Preserve at Oak Meadows in Addison. The Knights finished with a team score of 331. York won the team title with a 313 and North Shore Country Day was second at 324.

Zazz Atendido led the Knights with a 78 (38-40), while Danny

Fromelt shot 79 (39-40). Joe McDonough shot 82 (40-42) and Aiden Rosa logged a 92 (43-49) to round out the ICCP scoring. North Shore’s Max Greenberg-Winnick won the individual title with a 73. York’s Will Huber was the second-place medalist with a 75 and York’s Brendan Carroll was the third-place medalist with a 77.

ICCP is under the direction of new head coach John Quinn, who was an assistant in the program for the last

several years. He replaces the venerable Don Sujack, who retired after a tremendous run with the program that included a pair of recent state third-place finishes. Sujack will remain involved in the program as a volunteer assistant coach, while also spending plenty of time with grandson, Max, and truly enjoying retirement, Quinn noted.

The Knights graduated five of six

CHRIS FOX PHOTO Elmhurst Independent

Former high school teacher gets nine years for criminal sexual assault

DuPage County State’s Attorney

he spent his formative years in Elmhurst before pursuing higher education at Arizona State University.

Nathan Bramstedt

Robert Berlin has announced that a former choir teacher at Metea Valley High School has been sentenced to nine years in the Illinois Department of Corrections for having inappropriate sexual contact with a former student.

Nathan Bramstedt, 43, of Oswego, appeared in court where he entered a

• Golf

plea of guilty to one count of criminal sexual assault—position of trust/ authority, a Class 1 felony, in front of Judge Daniel Guerin, who handed down the sentence.

On April 9, 2022, Bramstedt appeared at a bond hearing where his bond was set at $500,000. On April 11, Bramstedt posted the necessary 10 percent, or $50,000, and was released from custody.

It is alleged that beginning in February 2019, continuing through June 2019, Bramstedt sexually assaulted his victim, who was 17 years old at the time, on multiple occasions at

(Continued from page 18) players from their decorated twoyear run that included those two state third-place finishes. “We are not void of talented players by any means,” Quinn pointed out. Atendido is the team’s lone returning contributor from a year ago. “Zazz will prove to be one of the better players in the state at any level,” Quinn said. “He had an active tournament schedule this summer and is excited to pick up where he left off when he finished fourth individually at the state tournament.”

Quinn expects juniors McDonough, Fromelt and Zach Spencer “to ascend comfortably and productively to the varsity level,” he said.

“What will dictate our overall strength and consistency this season is what players will assert themselves

as contributors in the fifth and sixth spots. We were formidable in years past not only due to our talent levels, but also our depth. Depth is what we hope to develop as the 2023 season moves on. Overall, we’re blessed with bright, eager and respectful student athletes at all levels.”

Quinn was encouraged by the Knights’ efforts at The Preserve to start the season. “We’d start by congratulating York on a truly impressive winning score to open their season,” he said. “313 will get to the pay window more times than it won’t. Furthermore, we’re happy to see the ICCP invitational has developed into a nice way for the same four teams to play each other to start their respective seasons. As far as our team is concerned, it was a decent

multiple locations within the school. The abuse came to light when the victim notified authorities, who in turn notified the DuPage County Children’s Center, which opened an investigation into the matter.

“Teachers are role models who students look up to and in whom parents place a great amount of trust,” Berlin said.

“Mr. Bramstedt abused this position of trust and authority in the worst possible way.”

Bramstedt will be required to serve 85 percent of his sentence before being eligible for parole.

Paul took hold of a successful career as a Real Estate Broker in the Phoenix area for over three decades and built a network of very close friends before coming back to Wood Dale to take the primary care responsibilities for his mother. He enjoyed spending time with family and friends, especially his parents, brother, sisters, nieces and nephews. Paul was always there for those he held dear. He relished talking through questions, raising a glass of wine to celebrate milestones, and catching up on life’s journeys over a

phone call. Throughout his life, Paul enjoyed learning about the culinary arts, cooking and pairing his meals with fine wine. He also enjoyed an active lifestyle of biking, skiing and hiking (especially his favorite, Pinnacle Peak).

Paul is survived by his sisters Barbara Schrik and Martha (Britt) Schrik. He is also survived by nieces/ nephews RJ (Valerie) Schrik, Lindy Schrik, Jenna (Brad) O’Connor, Jeremy Ford, Alexandra (Kevin) Ewoldt, Elliot Bolden and Danille Schrik. He is preceded in death by his parents, his brother Richard Schrik and his sister Nancy Schrik.

first showing to open our season. The course was in remarkable condition as it always is. It was a breezy day that made the course more biting than normal.”

Quinn added Atendido has his sights set on even lower scores. “While 78 is nothing to hang your head about, if you asked Zazz, he’d tell you he expects much better from himself. And better is what we’ll see. Danny Fromelt really played well and carded his best competitive 18-hole score of 79 followed by a steady 82 from Joe McDonough. While we would have liked to have fared better than third in our own event, I am proud of the way our young men performed and am excited to see them compete and develop this season.”

FALL BASEBALL - and - SOFTBALL REGISTRATIONS

Elmhurst Youth Baseball & EYB Cougars Softball House League registration is NOW OPEN!

Register NOW to be a part of the fastest growing baseball & softball program in the Western Suburbs!

The Fall Baseball and Softball Leagues are a non-competitive league focused on training and player development. It is a 5 or 6 week program scheduled to start in September and conclude in October with all practices and games taking place on the weekends.

Games are scheduled for each Saturday with practice prior to each game. If there is a rain-out then the game/practice may be rescheduled for Sunday.

Elmhurst Youth Baseball is open to boys and girls ages 4 to 19.

The EYB Cougars softball program is open to girls ages 4 to 14.

Fall ball allows for players to begin practicing and playing in divisions that they may qualify for in the following Spring season or to continue their development in the divisions they currently compete.

REGISTRATION FOR THE FALL BALL SEASON IS OPEN!

Register at eybaseball.org