Freshman Lindsey Rugg of the Willowbrook softball team is pictured while attempting to score a run during Friday’s game at Downers Grove South. Rugg tried to score from second base on a single by sophomore Katelyn Cox in the top of the second inning, when the game was tied at 2-2. Downers Grove South’s catcher tagged Rugg out at home plate for the third out of the inning. The Mustangs went on to defeat the Warriors 7-3 in the West Suburban Gold Conference contest. Wil
Willowbrook High School celebrated its homecoming last week. The week’s spe cial activities included Friday afternoon’s homecoming parade, which took place in hot and sunny conditions. The parade procession began near Park Boulevard and Ardmore Avenue. Parade participants marched south on Ardmore before turn
Willowbrook High School held its 2025 prom on Saturday evening at Pinstripes in Chicago. About 540 students boarded buses at the Villa Park school to head to the prom. After dinner, dancing, bowling and bocce at Pinstripes, promgoers enjoyed boat cruises on the Chicago River. One picture (above left) taken just before students departed Willowbrook to go to the prom shows (left to right) Ismael Esparza and junior Kenya Hernandez-Rodriguez with seniors Kasen Blain, Camryn Dooley, Payton Brose, Briana Dotson, Nina Guajardo, Halie Ahrens and Avery Solis. Another photo (left) shows (left to right) juniors Evan Kase, Ali Janjua, Evan Haworth, Jacob Bylsma, Alex Dew and Ben Rattana. One more photo (above right) shows (left to right) seniors Liz Tretina and Camryn Warnke.
lowbrook rebounded from Friday’s loss to post an 11-2 win in Saturday’s Hinsdale Central. The Warriors bashed three home runs in the second urday’s non-conference battle against the Red Devils of the West Conference. Senior Annemarie Knudtson, freshman Isabella Dugo Kayleigh Dennison provided the home runs. Dennison (No. 5) is background of the above photo. For more about the Warriors, see
ing west onto Highridge Road and into the school’s north parking lot. Willowbrook’s marching band are pictured along the parade route. The also included several of the Warriors’ fall athletic teams, as well as members
Willowbrook High School’s Class of 2021 celebrated its commencement with two separate ceremonies in the school’s main gymnasium on Sunday morning. The en tire class includes over 470 students. About half of those students attended the ceremony that began at 9 a.m. The others participated in the ceremony at 11 a.m. The photo shows members of the Willowbrook Senior Choir
THE SPRING MARKET
Arbor Day in Villa Park
located at 218 N. Third Ave., are: Trustee Christine Murphy, Justin Shlensky—chair of the Villa Park Environmental Concerns sion, Margaret Schiefer—a member of the Villa Park Environmental Concerns Commission, Village Trustee Cheryl Tucker, Villa Park Village President Albert Bulthuis, Villa Park Village Village President-Elect) Nick Cuzzone and Leslie Allison-Seei—chair of the Villa Park Commission. Arbor Day is observed on the last Friday of each April. The National Arbor has recognized Villa Park with Tree City USA designation for 36 straight years. To receive tion, a community must have a tree board or department, a tree-care ordinance, a comprehensive
year’s observance included a reading of the names of the Post 2801 members who have That list included World War II veteran Charles “Sid” Bergh, who served as the
of the post’s annual Memorial Day service for several years. A veteran of the U.S. Navy, October 2020. He was 94 years old. Bergh was the post’s last surviving World War
CHRIS FOX PHOTOS Villa Park Review
Opinion
Slices of life
Love to pack, hate to pack
I have a love-hate relationship with packing.
Not packing as in peanuts.
Not packing as in crates. Not packing as in boxes or tape. Not packing as in a wound. Not packing as in heat.
Packing—as in suitcases. I love it.
And then again, I hate it.
I wish I could say I love to hate it, but that just isn’t true. It’s the dichotomy that is true.
Loving something and hating it at the same time, it almost feels like a lie. But in this case, the thing that feels like a lie is the truth, as oxymoronic as that sounds.
How can you love something and then hate it all within the same minute?
Here’s the deal, I love packing because I love planning and, for me, packing involves a whole lot of planning—and organization— which I love as well. I also love anticipation.
Who amongst us doesn’t?
And isn’t packing the epitome of anticipation— typically of something fun, like a trip to the beach?
Every outfit, every pair of shoes brings with it possibilities. A swimsuit, cover-up and flip-flops promise a sunny day at the beach. Something fancy hints at a night out at an upscale restaurant. Good walking shoes illustrate hopes of a hike in the mountains or maybe a trip to the zoo. Even a comfy sweatshirt and slippers give a nod to relaxed mornings sitting on the deck with a cup of coffee.
In a nutshell, packing is putting into motion the positive anticipation of vacation. Let’s go! So there’s the love part.
You might be wondering where the hate comes in.
But then again, it’s probably pretty obvious: I hate that I am not better at packing.
First, I pack too much. Too many socks. Too much underwear. Too much of any sort of clothing, jewelry, shoes, hair products, and beachwear that I’m not going to need, but think I might need and you never know so you might as
By JILL PERTLER Columnist
well stuff it into the suitcase until nothing else will fit and then you just hope for the best in weather, activities and everything else that might or could come up in the next seven days.
I hate the uncertainty of seven days (also known worldwide as a week). What if the temperature is colder than expected? Or warmer? What if it rains? Or snows?
Second, I pack too little. How does one possibly prepare for an entire week away from one’s closet—with only one suitcase? I’ve yet to answer that question—philosophical or not. But the conundrum does thwart me.
A memory of a trip to the happiest theme park on the planet still haunts me. My kids were young. It was March. The happiest place on earth was supposed to be warm. It was not. And I had failed to pack sweatshirts for anyone in the family.
Of course we could buy sweatshirts, but that does not negate the ineptitude involved in not packing sweatshirts for your family in March just because the average temperature is non-sweatshirtworthy, and sweatshirts take up a fairly significant amount of valuable real estate in the average carry-on suitcase—not to mention the conundrum of where and how to pack those newly acquired sweatshirts upon returning home.
I love vacation, and I love packing. I love vacation, and I hate packing.
Much like I love vacation, and I hate vacation. When it ends.
Jill Pertler is an awardwinning syndicated columnist, published playwright and author. Don’t miss a slice; follow the Slices of Life page on Facebook.
Shining a light on the harmful impact of Trump’s tariffs on Illinois
By U.S. Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi Recently, I Recently, I completed a three-stop “Trump Tariff Tour” across our state to hear directly from small business owners, farmers, and workers whose lives are being upended by Donald Trump’s reckless tariff policies.
From Chicago to Bloomington to Urbana, one message was clear: these tariffs are hurting Illinois families and threatening the small businesses that drive our economy.
At every stop—from Testa Produce in Chicago to Kindred Farms in Atlanta to Cloud Mountain Kombucha in Urbana—I listened as business and agricultural leaders described how surging costs and supply chain disruptions are making it harder to survive, let alone thrive. For Illinois’ $200 billion agriculture sector and our family-owned businesses, the consequences of Trump’s trade war are real and rising. These tariffs amount to a hidden tax that raises costs for small businesses, seniors, and every Illinois family on everything from groceries to farm equipment. If fully implemented, Trump’s proposed tariffs could cost the average Illinois household over $4,400 per
year. And with nearly half of all small businesses already bracing for revenue losses, this approach puts our state’s economic future at risk. Now more than ever, we need trade policies that work for Illinois families—not against them. That’s why I’ll keep fighting to end these blanket tariffs and stand up for the workers, farmers, and entrepreneurs who make our state strong.
Celebrating Durbin’s exemplary career of public service
I joined many across Illinois in celebrating Sen. Dick Durbin’s extraordinary career of public service. From expanding access to health care and defending Dreamers to tackling gun violence and confirming a historic number of federal judges, Senator Durbin has delivered real results for working families. His tireless work on behalf of Illinoisans sets the standard for what public service should be.
As he continues his service over the next two years, I look forward to fighting alongside him to deliver even more for our state. From one son of downstate to another: Thank you, Senator.
Cracking down on Congressional stock trading amid tariff turmoil
As market volatility surges in the wake of new Trump Administration
tariff announcements, I’ve called on House leadership to immediately bring our Restoring Faith in Government Act to a vote.
Reports suggest members of Congress may have used non-public information to make timely stock trades, raising serious concerns about conflicts of interest and abuse of power.
One alarming example: on April 9, President Trump wrote on social media, “IT’S A GREAT TIME TO BUY!!!” just hours before announcing a major tariff decision that sent markets soaring. This kind of behavior opens the door for those with advanced knowledge to profit while everyday Americans are left in the dark.
That’s why I joined a bipartisan group—including Representatives Brian Fitzpatrick, Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, and Cory Mills—to introduce legislation that would ban members of Congress and their families from owning or trading individual stocks while in office.
We need to restore the American people’s trust in their government, and that starts with ensuring elected officials are serving the public—not their portfolios.
Strengthening career and technical education for our students, workers and economy I recently convened
a roundtable at Harry S Truman College with educators, students, and leaders from eight Chicagoland community colleges to discuss how we can strengthen career and technical education (CTE) programs that prepare Illinoisans for good-paying, in-demand jobs.
Our conversation focused on meeting urgent workforce needs in sectors like health care, childcare, and skilled trades—all vital to Illinois’ economic growth.
As the author of the Strengthening Career and Technical Education for the 21st Century Act, I’ve worked to expand federal support for CTE programs by $1.3 billion annually. These programs ensure students can access strong career pathways without needing a four-year degree while also giving employers the trained workers they need to thrive.
The participants at my roundtable emphasized the need for stable funding, robust apprenticeships, and wraparound support services to help students succeed. I’m committed to advancing these priorities in Congress to ensure our workforce is ready for the future.
Raja Krishnamoorthi represents the 8 th Congressional District of Illinois, which includes part of Addison, Wood Dale and Bensenville.
I was driving north on Highland Avenue recently and there was a guy, an adult, on what looked like an e-scooter. He was headed southbound in the northbound lane. I was always taught that when riding a wheeled vehicle, one travels on the side of the road in the direction of traffic; pedestrians walking are the ones who walk on the side of the road going against traffic. We need to teach better rules of the road for kids and adults who ride these motorized scooters and bikes.
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Someone posed recently: Who decided that vision and dental care should be outside the scope of health care? Especially in terms of insurance, I think preventive vision and dental care should be covered like any other “physical.” It could save a lot of money down the road for insurance payouts and costly procedures. I guess they consider it a gamble.
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I just received my 2024 property tax bill. The Village of Lombard provides infrastructure, fire, police and public works and accounts for 7.5 percent of my tax bill. The park district owns 450 acres and has 23 buildings and accounts for 4.5 percent of my tax bill. The library has one building and 1.9 acres of land and accounts for 5.0 percent of my property taxes. Why? I guess we know where our money is going. The library is out of hand and the residents of Lombard have to start demanding accountability and fiduciary responsibilities of the Library Board of
Trustees. Figure out your costs to run the new building and reduce the tax burden when the building is paid off. The library has been collecting the increase in property taxes since January 2017, more than eight years. Put a sunset clause on the tax increase for the building. Enough is enough.
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I read that Mayor Johnson of Chicago was heading to Springfield to ask for more state funding for schools, transportation and other things. Republican legislators have said suburban and downstate taxpayers should not have to “foot the bill” for Chicago’s poor financial decisions. I couldn’t agree more.
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Apparently there is conflicting guidance over how to interpret the intent of Title IX, related to women’s sports. The Illinois High School Association (IHSA) has stated that both the Illinois Attorney General and the Department of Human Rights have told the IHSA to let athletes compete based on “gender identity.” Some Republican legislators in Illinois have written to U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi to get federal guidance in the matter; apparently they, like many of us, believe that biological females should compete only against other biological females. This should not be a Republican or Democrat issue, but let’s simply agree that chromosomes don’t lie, and that Title IX was too a big victory for female athletes to have it degraded.
Sounds like a chess game is
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brewing with the Illinois politicians, now that Sen. Dick Durbin is bowing out come election time, with Lt. Gov. Stratton wanting to fill his Senate seat. Don’t be surprised if Pritzker runs for president, and Alexi Giannoulias puts in a bid for lieutenant governor or governor. *
Illinoisans are looking at a proposed $6 billion tax hike for such things as digital advertising, capital gains, corporate income and estates. Besides estate and capital gains taxes, how long will it be before more taxes on businesses drive them out of Illinois or result in higher consumer costs and discourage investing? That leaves the rest of us funding these continued tax increases, some of which is earmarked for illegals. And at the same time, how much is it costing us for Pritzker to tour around the country when that money could be spent here to pay down debt or put back into needed services?
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To all my fellow veterans: I received a letter this week telling me I am no longer eligible for any VA benefits! I got very upset and let it sit for a day. There was an “888” phone number with it, which is not a Hines VA number. So, after discussing it with my family, I called the “888” number and the person who answered immediately wanted all my personal information; I said no and hung up. So, I called the Hines VA eligibility office; they never sent a letter, nothing has changed and I am eligible for all my current benefits. Please pass the word—some of us “older” people will fall for this and who knows what might happen.
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If your relatives fought and
died to accomplish the freedoms we have as a country today, they wouldn’t condone the violence that is going on now, be they Democrat or Republican. We are Americans first and party after. The Democratic establishment is being taken over by far-left influences. We have to wonder what their goal is. Fellow Democrats, take a stand or watch our party collapse. Socialism and Communism won’t survive in America.
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According to the UN there have been more than 11,000 additional tuberculosis deaths over the last two months, due to Trump’s cut to the USAID programs. How can anyone be a Trump supporter when he’s causing this kind of death and destruction?
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Good morning, Lombard. I just got a letter from the village regarding our wonderful Lilac Time, of course with the footnote being Lombard, and now I’m really “cornfused.” Construction during Lilac Time? Whoever planned this construction for the month of May really is looking forward to not having many visitors come to the downtown area. What are we planning, people?
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The new Democratic Party is scary and dangerous. They propose fear, turmoil and hate. The new Democratic Party offers no programs or plan for our nation, which I believe they hold in contempt. Their byword is believe and do as they say or they will lie and try to destroy you, your life and family The new Democratic Party is not the one of my father. Vote other than Democrats and you are designated the enemy.
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Coming events
Digital media showcase May 16
Elmhurst University will host a Digital Media Showcase on May 16 to celebrate films created by the University’s digital media students, as well as music videos made by Chicago middle school musicians and Elmhurst students as part of the University’s partnership with The Base Chicago programs for youth. The evening begins with a red carpet walk and photos to welcome all participants and attendees. During the showcase, work by digital media
Everyone loves a parade, especially if they’re in it. A lot of people don’t care what the holiday is. There’s also a group that has to fill the gap with protests for any cause that resembles a parade.
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So, the senator is retiring. My one singular memory of Durbin is during the Iraq War, calling our troops Nazis. When the Dems go, it’s always low. Good riddance. P.S., the other one isn’t any better.
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So, he hasn’t made it formal, but I bet JB is running for president. I have some concerns about another billionaire running the country, but JB actually cares about people and our country. He is not perfect, but—breaking news—Trump isn’t even trying to do anything right! Yes, Illinois has a bunch of financial problems, but remember he inherited them, did not create them. I hope he picks “Mayor Pete” as his VP. * * *
Once again, I shake my head at the narrow-mindedness of some of these contributors. I refer to the May 1 Speak Out; specifically, the writer (caller) who accredited a “perceived” death threat against state Rep. Costa-Howard, as a result of her sponsoring a homeschool bill. This grantor of shallow wisdom was “guessing that it (death threat) came from some far-right wing nut.” My friend, guessing, assuming, presuming and inferring without facts, only relying on personal feelings without factual back-up is extremely harmful in many facets of our society. That’s why we have examinations of law and procedure of law, to find the truth. Further, it’s been seen in these last few years the destructive measures the “far left wing nuts” have been tak-
ing to terrorize and use force and intimidation during their “peaceful protests.” I need not go into detail on this, as it is all well publicized. My point, and I’ve said this before in this outlet, get some facts, write them in here, before spouting out canned rhetoric, false accusations/assumptions and general allegations without any proof whatsoever. But that’s how the left operates. They haven’t much to stand on. Peace.
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As someone who’s voted for Donald Trump not once, not twice, but three times, I find it very frustrating that he continues to double down on these tariffs. It takes away from the policies that I think have been beneficial to the country, such as shutting down the border, deporting illegals, exposing government waste, fraud and abuse with DOGE, and confronting all the regressive leftist nonsense on cultural issues. The entire tariff policy wasn’t thought out. Why not sit down with our allies, treat them like allies and rationally negotiate new trade deals instead of treating them like adversaries and ram-rodding one size fits all tariffs down their throats? It’s really sad what he’s done to Canada. Thanks to Trump, our relationship with Canada is the worst it’s ever been, and now Canada has a far-left prime minister instead of a conservative prime minister. The conservative candidate was actually ahead in the polls before Trump injected himself into it, putting tariffs on Canada and continuing to make silly comments about Canada becoming the 51st state. Mr. President, is it too much to ask to be a little more diplomatic and stop running your month every waking moment?
students—including short films, documentaries and video game and animation highlights—will be screened. The showcase also will feature “Feel The Base” music videos created during the past academic year by middle school students from Chicago’s West Garfield Park neighborhood, in collaboration with Elmhurst students and faculty. The Digital Media Showcase begins at 6 p.m. with the red carpet walk and photos, followed by the showcase at 7 p.m., in Hammerschmidt Memorial Chapel. The event is
free and all are welcome. For questions, email kristynjo. benedyk@elmhurst.edu.
Program on natural body care May 22 at LHS
The Lombard Historical Society (LHS) is proud to present the first in a three-part series exploring how to harness the power of the garden for bath and body care. Join Marcy Lautanen-Raleigh of Backyard Patch Herbs for this hands-on workshop on May 22 at 7 p.m. in the Carriage House at 23 W. Maple St., Lombard. In this engaging
session, participants will learn simple infusion techniques— using salt or sugar, water, and oil—to create nourishing base products for natural body care. Attendees will even make their own herbal-infused scrub to take home and enjoy. This program is perfect for anyone interested in herbal remedies, DIY wellness, or adding a touch of garden-inspired relaxation to their routine. This is a free program, but space is limited and registration is required. Reserve your spot today at LombardHistory.org.
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out& about Jane Charmelo
Local Masonic lodge members demonstrate ‘Lombard Pride’ Volunteers help clean up around Terrace View Pond
Like other civic groups in Lombard, Masonic Lodge #1098 is committed to helping keep the Lilac Village clean and inviting, so members volunteered on Saturday, April 19, to focus on the area around Terrace View Pond, located near Elizabeth Street and Greenfield Avenue, and adjacent Park View Elementary School.
According to the lodge’s Worshipful Master, Stephan Meyn, volunteering to help clean up trash in and around Lombard is not a new venture; the lodge has participated in the Adopt-A-Highway Program—on North Avenue from Route 53 to Grace Street—in the spring and fall for over three years, and now, this is the second year participating in the Lombard Pride Cleanup event (some of which was also held Saturday, April 26).
“We always get involved in the community,” Meyn said, adding that it is “a great opportunity to pitch in and help. It fits right in with our Adopt-A-Highway Program.”
“We worked around the park and school area, and we picked up trash,” he described, adding that there were about 15 volunteers, including around six members of the youth groups DeMolay (for boys and young men) and Job’s Daughters (for girls and young women).
Afterward, he continued, the lodge provided a boxed lunch for the volunteers.
Lodge member Chris Carter commented that “The combined effort with Lombard Lodge and [youth groups] is to help earn credit and learn more about community service.”
Meyn, a lifelong Lombard resident, said he feels “the satisfaction of doing something good; seeing your accomplishments.”
“Nothing makes me happier than to help out … a way we want to give back to everybody,” he commented.
Bikes for Books
Another local service the lodge recently conducted was Bikes for Books, Meyn said.
The program, which began in the fall of 2022, “started with the Grand Lodge of Illinois,” he explained, adding that since then, the program has been introduced in over
70 schools.
This is the first year Bikes for Books was held in Lombard, which took place at Pleasant Lane Elementary School. Meyn said the lodge chose Pleasant Lane since the Medinah Shriners have developed a relationship with the school through their bringing therapy dogs to visit.
In Bikes for Books, students are challenged to read as many books as possible— for the chance to win a new bicycle and helmet, Meyn said.
For each book read, the student gets a “raffle ticket” to be entered into the drawing to win a new bicycle, which Meyn said will then be tailored to that individual child.
According to the Springfield-based Illinois Masonic Children’s Assistance Program (IMCAP) website, IMCAP will reimburse a lodge up to $350 for the purchase of one bike for one school and up to $500 for bikes for two or more schools; the lodge is responsible for purchasing a bike(s) to meet the child’s height, weight, and ability; the lodge must purchase a quality pre-assembled new bike(s) and a helmet(s) for the child/children winning the bike drawing; and the lodge is responsible for the cost of the helmet.
This year’s winner was fifth-grade student Ellie Schindler.
About the Masons
According to the United Grand Lodge of England, the origins of the Freemasons are “the subject of intense speculation,” but it is thought that “they lie with the medieval stonemasons that built our castles and cathedrals.”
The first known Grand Lodge in the world was in 1717, when Anthony Sayer became the first Grand Master (www.ugle.org.uk/ discover-freemasonry/history-freemasonry).
The worldwide organization is a fraternity, not a religion, and in fact, is open to all men “of good character who believe in God,” irrespective of their individual religious beliefs.
The Masonic lodges take on their own focus, whether it be social, educational or philanthropic endeavors,
and encourage personal improvement through study.
The list of well-known Masons is lengthy. A few of them include actors “Red” Skelton, John Wayne and Ernest Borgnine; musicians Irving Berlin, Wolfgang Mozart and Duke Ellington; author and minister Norman Vincent Peale; Gens. Omar Bradley and Douglas MacArthur; and former presidents Theodore Roosevelt, Harry Truman, Franklin D. Roosevelt and Gerald Ford.
Meyn noted that the Lombard Masonic Lodge #1098 is now 151 years old. It is dedicated to charitable activities, fellowship and providing a positive impact through various events and programs for the betterment of the communities it serves. For more information, visit Lombard1098.com or find them on Facebook.
photoS courteSy of Stephan Meyn Rock Valley Publishing Volunteers from Lombard’s Masonic Lodge #1098 spent part of Saturday, April 19, cleaning up trash around Terrace View Pond and adjacent Park View Elementary School, as part of a community service effort, which also included youth from DeMolay and Job’s Daughters.
From left to right: Masonic Lodge #1098 Bro. Joe Goorsky, Bro. Kenneth Krochman and Worshipful Master Stephan Meyn with Pleasant Lane School fifth-grader Ellie Schindler, who won a new bike after participating in the Bikes for Books program.
Chicago woman charged with leading police on a high-speed chase following alleged theft by co-defendant in Bloomingdale
Vehicle driven by subject involved in a three-car crash at Main and Roosevelt in Lombard; subjects arrested after they reportedly entered bathrooms at Lombard Jewel-Osco
DuPage County State’s Attorney Robert Berlin and Bloomingdale Director of Public Safety Frank Giammarese announced on Saturday, May 3, that Judge Michael Burton had granted the state’s motion to detain pre-trial a Chicago woman accused of leading police on a highspeed chase and crashing her car into other vehicles after her co-defendant allegedly stole merchandise from the Bloomingdale Best Buy located at 352 W. Army Trail Road.
Autumn Provine, 21, appeared at First Appearance Court on May 3, and was charged with one count of aggravated fleeing and eluding a police officer (a Class 4 felony) and 19 misdemeanor and petty traffic offenses, in-
Autumn Provine Frank Cerda
cluding attempted leaving the scene of an accident resulting in personal injury or death, improper lane usage and use of unsafe tires.
Provine’s co-defendant, Frank Cerda, 30, of Chicago, also appeared in First Appearance Court on May 3. Cerda was charged with one count of retail theft, a Class 3 felony. Cerda was released pre-trial as required by law with con-
ditions that he does not enter any Best Buy store.
On Friday, May 2, at approximately 6:12 p.m., Bloomingdale Police patrol officers responded to the Best Buy store for a report of an in-progress retail theft. Upon their arrival, officers learned that a male, later identified as Cerda, allegedly selected a Shark hair dryer and two Polaroid cameras and film totaling approximately $621.97, exited the store and entered the passenger side of a black Lexus RX 300, allegedly driven by Provine.
It is alleged that Provine then left the parking lot and traveled eastbound on Army Trail Road. A Bloomingdale police officer observed the Lexus on Army Trail Road
near Gladstone Drive and activated his emergency lights and siren to initiate a traffic stop. It is alleged that instead of pulling over, Provine began traveling at a high rate of speed away from the officer reaching speeds of approximately 55 mph in a 25-mph zone on Gladstone.
It is further alleged that after officers successfully deployed a spike strip, which deflated the rear side tire of the Lexus, Provine continued traveling eastbound on Army Trail Road and eventually turned southbound onto Glen Ellyn Road.
Bloomingdale police terminated their pursuit and approximately six minutes later, Glen Ellyn police officers located the Lexus and attempt-
ed a traffic stop, at which time the Lexus allegedly fled from Glen Ellyn police.
At approximately 6:33 p.m., Lombard police advised that the Lexus driven by Provine was involved in a three-vehicle crash at Main Street and Roosevelt Road.
One victim from that crash was transported to a local hospital with unknown injuries.
The Lexus was reportedly destroyed in the crash.
It is alleged that Provine and Cerda exited the Lexus on foot and entered the Lombard Jewel-Osco at 1177 S. Main Street, where they were both located in bathrooms inside the store and taken into custody.
“Once again, the apprehension of the defendants in this
case sends a strong message that in DuPage County if you flee from the police, you will be caught, charged and prosecuted. As I have said countless times, if you see lights and hear sirens, pull over and do not attempt to flee, as this puts the public, as well as the officers involved, at risk,” Berlin said.
“On behalf of those involved in this incident, I wish the innocent victim in this case a speedy recovery. I thank the Bloomingdale Police Department for their efforts and good judgment on this case, the Lombard Police Department for their work in apprehending the defendants as well as the Glen Ellyn Police Department for their assistance.”
Trump’s 100 days: Pritzker calls for mass mobilization as he grows his national profile
Governor introduces himself to new audiences at New Hampshire fundraiser, virtual town hall while dismissing presidential speculation
By Ben Szalinski
Capitol news illinois
President Donald Trump marked the 100th day of his second term on April 29 as Gov. JB Pritzker has spent the week calling on Americans to pressure congressional Republicans to oppose Trump’s agenda and highlighting how Trump’s policies affect Illinois.
“I’m deeply concerned about what the next 100 days, and frankly, the next 1,000 days will be like,” Pritzker said during a virtual town hall.
Pritzker appeared on the MeidasTouch podcast’s live town hall alongside three other Democratic governors: Kathy Hochul, of New York, Maura Healey, of Massachusetts, and Tim Walz, of Minnesota—the unsuccessful 2024 vice presidential nominee.
Throughout the town hall, the second-term Illinois governor continued calling for Americans to make their voices heard against what he perceives as a destructive Trump administration.
“I believe that we all ought to be mobilizing,” Pritzker told a Florida resident. “It’s the best way for us to get across what we really believe is that, you know, show up at your Republican congressman’s office and let them know: Quit shutting down veteran services, quit taking away Social Security and Medicaid.”
But for Democrats to be successful in future election cycles, the party must deliver
results on voters’ priorities, Pritzker said. In addition to explaining a “simple message” about the party’s values to voters, Democrats should also embrace alternative media interviews to reach new voters, he said, pointing to a string of podcasts Walz appeared on during last year’s vice-presidential campaign.
“He was everywhere,” Pritzker said. “We’ve got to do that, all of us, and make sure that the Democratic message of standing up for working families is heard everywhere and directly to people who are online.”
Pritzker’s live podcast appearance April 29 came two days after he delivered blistering criticism of unnamed people in his party for using podcasts and media interviews to chastise other Democrats.
“What I find ironic about the current conversation surrounding our party is that the voices flocking to podcasts and cable news shows to admonish fellow Democrats for not caring enough about the struggles of working families are the same ones who, when it comes to relieving the struggles of real people, have been timid, not bold,” Pritzker told a fundraiser for the New Hampshire Democratic Party on April 27.
New Hampshire has typically held the first presidential primary election, usually following the Iowa caucus.
Pritzker, who also appeared April 28 on MSNBC, has been working himself into the
national spotlight for months since Trump took over the White House in January. Appearances on trendy podcasts and prime time cable TV shows have become a regular part of the governor’s schedule.
Pritzker received national attention after he warned of similarities between Nazi Germany and the Trump administration in his February State of the State address. His remarks in New Hampshire on April 27 drew more attention as headlines in publications including The New York Times declared the speech “stokes 2028 talks.”
Pritzker downplayed any links between the speech and his personal ambitions, saying he’s only trying to send a message to the party about what the platform for 2026 should be while defending Illinois against the Trump administration’s policies.
“I was surprised that so many people covered that,” Pritzker told reporters in Chicago.
The speech also struck a nerve with Republicans as Pritzker suggested Democrats “will never join so many Republicans in the special place in hell reserved for quislings and cowards.”
“Never before in my life have I called for mass protests, for mobilization, for disruption,” Pritzker said. “But I am now. These Republicans cannot know a moment of peace. They must understand that we will fight their cru-
elty with every megaphone and microphone that we have. We must castigate them on the soap box and then punish them at the ballot box.”
Pritzker first called on Democrats to become “street fighters” and engage in mass protest at a Human Rights Campaign dinner in March in Los Angelas.
The Illinois Republican Party cried foul in a news release titled “Pritzker calls for violence against Republicans.”
“His comments if nothing else could be construed as inciting violence,” Trump deputy chief of staff Stephen Miller said.
Pritzker scoffed at Miller’s criticism, saying he didn’t listen to the speech.
“Peaceful protest is what I’m talking about. It’s about standing up, speaking out,” Pritzker told reporters. “Again, using your megaphone, your microphone, whatever you’ve got. And the peace that I’m talking about is making sure that they know at all times that the American public opposes the policies of Congressional Republicans and of the White House.”
Outside public appearances, Pritzker’s political organization also announced it was beginning a new video series highlighting Illinoisians who have been hurt by cuts to the federal government under Trump. And to mark Trump’s 100th day in office, the governor’s office released a list of 100 ways “Trump and Repub-
licans are hurting Illinois.”
Responding to a Chicago voter’s concerns about affordable housing during the April 29 town hall, Pritzker rattled off legislation and state spending increases approved under his administration as a way he’s trying to help. But he also argued it’s ultimately going to be challenging to
address such concerns with Trump as president.
“Donald Trump is making everything harder,” Pritzker said. “Housing, rent, being able to borrow money to buy your first home, or any home, and that’s something that we’re all going to have to live with until we’re able to overturn the Congress.”
A global learning experience
Lombard Elementary School District 44 recently held its World Expo, where it celebrated the cultures and traditions of District 44 families. The World Expo is an annual fun-filled educational event during which students, teachers and families explored interactive country tables, enjoyed cultural performances, created hands-on crafts, tasted delicious global cuisines and connected with community organizations.
Meet ‘Common Purple’
This week’s feature is Common Purple (Syringa vulgaris). The Common Purple is the one most often thought of when it comes to lilacs. It is often referred to as the “old-fashioned lilac.” It was brought to the United States from southeast Europe in the 1700s. The 12’-15’ tall x 8’-12’ wide upright bush grows in a vase shape. Its profuse purple blooms provide fantastic midseason spring color and fragrance. It is hardy, easy to care for and good for exposed, windy locations. The area’s largest lilac sale in Lombard, the Lilac Village, will be held in Lilacia Park near the Metra station on Thursday, May 8, from noon until 7 p.m. or sold out. Choose from 19 different lilacs of varying sizes. Colors of the blooms range from deep violet, magenta and lilac to pink, blue and white. Proceeds support the Lombard Garden Club’s scholarship program, community beautification projects and educational outreach about the environment and gardening in our region. View color photos of the lilacs at www. lombardgardenclub.org.
Worship Services Directory
St. Timothy Evangelical Lutheran Church 547 N. Main St., Lombard, IL 60148 630-627-2435
Sunday Worship at 10:15 am
Lent and Easter Services at 7 p.m.
Sunday School & Bible Study 9 am
“The Crucial Hours”
Ladies Bible Fellowship Mondays at 6:30 pm
Second Lenten Service March 9, 2022
Wednesday Service at 7pm
Rev. David Ernest “Satan Has Asked to Sift All of You” Jerusalem Lutheran, Morton Grove Matthew 27:15-26
Adult Bible Study Wednesdays after Service Saturday, May 24, Game Night at 4 pm
Third Lenten Service March 16, 2022
Everyone is Welcome!
Rev. Paul Spaude “What to Remember When Your are St. Matthews, Niles Seized with Remorse” Matthew 27:3-4
All services are live streamed. Watch on our website or on Facebook. sainttimothy.org
Fourth Lenten Service March 23, 2022
Rev. Jonathan Bergemann “I Will Keep the Passover” Good Shepherd, Downers Grove Matthew 26:18
Fifth Lenten Service
Rev. Tom Nicholson Resurrection, Aurora
Sixth Lenten Service
Rev. Phil Schupmann “The Semblance of Legality” Resurrection, Aurora
Maundy Thursday Communion 7 p.m., April 14
Good Friday Tenebrae Easter Sunrise
Easter Breakfast 8 a.m., April 17 Easter Festival 10:15 a.m., April 17
Join us at the corner of Spring and Vallette 314 W. Vallette Street, Elmhurst, IL www.epiphanyelmhurst.org 630-832-8457
Worship with Us! Saturdays 5:30pm Sundays 9:30am
All are Welcome!
Sunday services are live streamed on our website. Children’s Sunday School, Childcare and Adult Opportunities Available 470618
Weekend Masses: Saturday: 4 PM (Vigil) Sunday: 7:30, 9:30 & 11:30 AM and 6 PM
Weekend Masses: Saturday: 4 PM (Vigil) Sunday: 7:30, 9:30 & 11:30 AM and 6 PM
Daily Masses:
Monday Friday: 6:15 and 8:15 AM Saturday: 8:15 AM
Daily Masses: Monday—Friday: 6:15 and 8:15 AM Saturday: 8:15 AM
Confessions: Saturday: 3-3:45PM
Confessions: Saturday: 3-3:45PM
Adoration: Parish Center Eucharist Chapel 24/7
Adoration: Parish Center Eucharist Chapel 24/7
With 1 month left in session, lawmakers near deal on public transit reform
But hurdles remain as tensions rise between lawmakers and some regional transit officials
By Andrew Adams and Ben Szalinski CAPITOL NEWS ILLINOIS
Lawmakers apparently are close to a deal to resolve one of Springfield’s most hotly contested issues this session: transit reform.
Public transit agencies in Chicagoland—a region with roughly two-thirds of Illinois’ population—face a collective $770 million budget gap in the upcoming fiscal year. Heads of the agencies have turned to the state to fill that gap, but lawmakers have consistently said that reform of the agencies’ government and better oversight are required before addressing funding.
If lawmakers don’t reach a deal to reform the northeastern Illinois transit system and introduce new funding before their May 31 adjournment, transit officials say it will result in significant cuts, which would result in a “nightmare scenario,” according to Regional Transportation Authority spokesperson Tina Fassett Smith.
Sen. Don DeWitte, R-St. Charles, told reporters this week that lawmakers in the Senate “are very close to agreed language on governance,” meaning a deal is close.
DeWitte, a longtime former mayor of St. Charles and ranking Republican on the Senate’s Transportation committee, said the deal would leave in place the three “service boards” that operate transit in Chicago and the suburbs: the Chicago Transit Authority, Metra commuter rail service and Pace Suburban Bus
The agreement, according to DeWitte, would provide new oversight powers to a “newly empowered” RTA, the agency that currently handles some financial oversight for the region’s transit agencies.
DeWitte was on the 16-member board of directors for the RTA for five years before joining the Illinois Senate.
Several proposals for reform have been pitched in
recent months, with the plan outlined by DeWitte being similar to what he called the “labor bill” — a plan initially put forward by a coalition of organized labor groups and unions.
But the brief description has superficial similarities to a plan proposed by RTA chairman and former Republican state senator Kirk Dillard. That plan also would empower the RTA
A more aggressive reform plan, which would have dissolved the three service boards and consolidated them into one agency, was proposed by transit activists and environmentalists. That consolidation plan was formalized into bills presented by Chicago Democrats Sen. Ram Villivalam and Rep. Eva-Dina Delgado.
While DeWitte is familiar with the negotiations, others involved differ on how close lawmakers are to a deal.
Villivalam, who chairs the Senate Transportation Committee, said he and his colleagues are “continuing dis-
cussions” about the bill.
“As we head into the remaining weeks of our spring legislative session, I look forward to working toward a solution that provides safe, reliable, accessible, and integrated public transit to the northeastern Illinois region,” Villivalam said in a statement.
The House of Representatives might bring other hurdles to a transit reform deal as lawmakers barrel toward their expected adjournment.
Rep. Marty Moylan, D-Des Plaines, who chairs a House committee that would likely hear a transit reform bill, has said repeatedly that no bill will be called in his committee that doesn’t meet his standards, including addressing concerns about safety on trains and buses.
But he echoed DeWitte’s read on the situation that a proposal similar to organized labor’s pitch will win out.
“That seems to be the consensus of the General Assembly: Leave the boards in, have them do some reforms, and let’s move forward,” Moylan told Capitol News Illinois. “We’re making progress with some of the transit agencies. The RTA still doesn’t get it, but they will by the end.”
‘Irresponsible’ PR campaign
The RTA, to raise awareness and potentially influence negotiations in Springfield,
launched the “Save Transit Now” ad campaign earlier this month. That campaign features television and radio ads in English and Spanish as well as ads on billboards, digital signs, newspapers and social media.
The campaign encourages RTA riders to write emails to their lawmakers with the subject line “Save Transit Now: Support $1.5 billion and an empowered RTA” and a prewritten message.
This frustrated several lawmakers involved in transit negotiations.
“To cry broke with one hand and drop three-quarters of a million dollars on a PR campaign with the other is wrong, and frankly, it’s irresponsible,” Rep. Kam Buckner, D-Chicago, wrote in the Chicago Tribune.
Buckner chairs the informal “working group” responsible for negotiating transit issues in the House.
Moylan, meanwhile, said the agency was “wasting all kinds of money” on the campaign, which isn’t going to make the General Assembly change its policies.
“It’s not how it works,” Moylan said. “It may have worked years ago, but not now.”
Fassett Smith, the director of communications at the RTA, said the $750,000 price tag was an upper estimate of the cost and said it is the agen-
(Continued from page 13)
nor’—not ‘Hello, George’ … They loved him.”
“He made a mistake and he did his time,” Durkin said. “And he didn’t express or show any bitterness toward anyone involved in his case. Just wanted to get on with his life. That shows a strong man who takes responsibility.” Illinois Senate Minority Leader John Curran, R-Downers Grove, echoed Durkin’s accolades that Ryan was a “master of bridging the gap” both between Republicans and Democrats and between organized labor and management.
cies’ “obligation” to make sure transit riders were aware of the RTA’s dire financial straits.
Another potential wrinkle as lawmakers wrap up negotiations comes from Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson, who was in Springfield last week to meet with lawmakers about the city’s legislative priorities. Among them: transit funding.
“The city of Chicago deserves its fair share, and we’re going to continue to advocate for that, as I’ve already done,” Johnson said at a news conference.
Johnson has a strained relationship with lawmakers in Springfield after several perceived missteps since he took office, including dragging his feet in funding migrant aid last year, arriving late in legislative sessions to discuss budget matters, and publicly clashing with Gov. JB Pritzker and other lawmakers over hemp regulation earlier this year.
Johnson has repeatedly in recent months pointed out that Chicagoans make up the majority of ridership among the three transit agencies that make up the RTA. When asked Tuesday whether that means Chicagoans should also be funding a majority of public transportation in the region, Johnson didn’t rule it out.
“That’s a conclusion that one could draw,” Johnson said.
“He was a bold leader who wasn’t afraid to reach across the aisle and bring people together for the greater good,” Curran said. “His investments in infrastructure, technology, and education to help create a brighter future for Illinois will long be remembered.”
• Ryan
FUN RUN FUN RUN FUN RUN
Our Story Our Story
The inaugural Dan Gibbons Twilight Trot, a 5K fun run, will take place May 31, 2025 at 6:30 pm. This event, a sister run to our beloved Turkey Trot, aims to address hunger and basic needs year-round, with a focus on the summer months.
“We recognize that hunger and basic needs don’t disappear after the holiday season,” says Dan Gibbons.
“We want to give a mid-year boost to these four vital Elmhurst nonprofit organizations”. (See below)
“We’re calling on the entire community to join us,” Gibbons said.
“Every step taken and every dollar raised will make a real difference in the lives of our neighbors in need.”
Race Day: Saturday, May 31, 2025
Start Time: 6:30 pm
Start Line: Arlington Avenue & South Street
The Rams are rolling
The Glenbard East softball team reeled off four Upstate Eight Conference wins in a four-day span last week to raise its conference record to 11-1. The Rams finished their successful week with two decisive non-conference victories at Saturday’s tournament at Rolling Meadows High School. Those two wins pushed Glenbard East’s overall season record to 14-2. The Rams opened the week with a 19-0 fourinning conference win over East Aurora on April 28 in Lombard. One day later, Glenbard East posted a 3-0 conference home win over Elmwood Park. Sophomore Claire Bolda (right - No. 23) pitched a one-hit shutout to lead Glenbard East to its April 29 win over the visiting Tigers. Bolda allowed one hit and no walks in seven innings in the circle. She piled up 15 strikeouts. Elmwood Park picked up its only hit of the game with a two-out single in the top of the fifth inning. Senior Melissa Saldana went 1-for-3 and drove in one run for the Rams. Saldana’s single in the bottom of the third inning gave Glenbard East a 1-0 lead. The Rams added single runs in the fourth and fifth innings. Saldana is pictured (above left) after she fielded a groundball in front of sophomore shortstop Lilly Carver (No. 22) and made a throw to first base. One more photo from the game shows senior Madison Krillies (above right - No. 66) of the Rams playing first base. Glenbard East’s week continued with a 7-2 conference win at West Aurora on April 30. Bolda delivered another completegame performance, recording 16 strikeouts over seven innings in the Rams’ triumph over the Blackhawks. Sophomore Ally Amrhein belted a two-run home run in the top of the first inning to give Glenbard East a 2-0 lead. The Rams picked up two more runs in the first inning to grab a quick 4-0 edge. Bolda and sophomore Althea Fitzgerald provided two hits each in the win. The Rams moved to 11-1 in conference action following their 20-2 wipeout of Elgin in a threeinning road contest on May 1. Saldana went 3-for-3 with two homers and eight RBIs. Glenbard East opened Saturday’s event with a 9-2 win over Evanston. In their second game of the day, the Rams walloped Rolling Meadows 17-0 in four innings.
Rams win two of three matches
Glenbard East’s boys volleyball team won two of three matches last week. The Rams began their week with a 22-25, 25-16, 25-20 Upstate Eight Conference victory over Riverside Brookfield on April 29 in Lombard. One day later, the Rams beat Naperville Central 25-23, 2516 in a non-conference match in Naperville. Playing its third match in as many days, Glenbard East lost a threegame non-conference battle to St. Charles North on May 1. The Rams won the opening game of that match, but St. Charles North rallied for a 17-25, 25-17, 25-20 win. Sophomore Gloire Emena bashed 14 kills and made nine digs for the Rams in last week’s win over Riverside Brookfield. Junior Gabe Polyak provided 12 kills and seven digs for the Rams, who improved their conference record to 2-0 with their victory over the visiting Bulldogs. Senior Max McDermott contributed 21 assists and six digs for Glenbard East. Junior Charlie Cooper supplied 18 assists and seven digs. Junior Nate Lynch and senior Ryan Ghannem connected for five and four kills, respectively. Senior Cooper Wooldridge added three kills, three blocks and two digs. Junior Jake Hayes made 10 digs. Emena hit eight kills in last week’s win at Naperville Central. Polyak bashed six kills. McDermott provided a team-leading 15 assists. McDermott (top left - No. 9) piled up 15 assists and eight digs in the Rams’ three-game loss to St. Charles North. Polyak (top right - No. 3) hit nine kills and made five digs in the May 1 contest. Emena provided seven kills and nine digs. Lynch (left - No. 12) and Ghannem pounded six kills each. Hayes (pictured below) made 14 digs, while Cooper handed out 12 assists.
CHRIS FOX PHOTOS Rock Valley Publishing
CHRIS FOX PHOTOS Rock Valley Publishing
High-scoring week for Rams
Glenbard East’s girls soccer team won three straight matches in a five-day span to raise its overall season record to 5-7-2. The Rams routed Ridgewood 10-0 in an Upstate Eight Conference match at Ridgewood on April 29. Glenbard East’s week continued with a 6-0 non-conference victory at Glenbard North on May 1. The Rams’ winning streak continued with Saturday’s 3-1 conference win over Elmwood Park in Lombard. Glenbard East sophomore Sam Anderson (above left - No. 3) scored four of her team’s goals in last week’s win over Ridgewood. Senior Brissa Sarabia netted three goals, while sophomore Jessica Gilleran (above right - No. 10) supplied two goals. Junior Nora Opila provided one goal and three assists. Sophomore Teagan Murphy contributed two assists. Sarabia, Murphy, Opila, Gilleran, senior Cleo Glenzinski (right - No. 4) and junior Lily Tripp scored one goal each during the Rams’ triumph at Glenbard North. Glenzinski and Opila scored goals in the first half of Saturday’s home match against Elmwood Park. Glenbard East led the visiting Tigers 2-1 at halftime. Opila scored the only goal of the second half with about 10 seconds left in the match. The Rams raised their conference record to 2-0-1 with Saturday’s win. Glenbard East’s schedule this week includes conference matches against Riverside Brookfield, West Chicago and Fenton. Anderson, Gilleran and Glenzinski are pictured during Saturday’s victory over Elmwood Park.
Warriors beat Broncos
The Willowbrook and Montini Catholic girls soccer teams squared off in last week’s match in Villa Park. The Warriors defeated the visiting Broncos 2-0 in the April 30 contest. Willowbrook secured its second win of the season with its victory over Montini and moved its overall 2025 season record to 2-11-1. The Broncos’ record dropped to 5-7 following their loss to the Warriors. Senior Emily Barth (right - No. 6) gave Willowbrook a 1-0 lead over Montini when she headed the ball into the net off of a corner kick by senior Liz Tretina with about 31 minutes remaining in the first half. Senior Halie Ahrens (middle - No. 22) extended the Warriors’ lead to 2-0 when she scored on a penalty kick with about 24 minutes left in the second half. One more photo from the match shows (left to right) Montini senior Annalee DeFeo and Willowbrook freshman Alina Blain (far right - No. 14).
Winning Warriors
The Willowbrook softball team earned a pair of West Suburban Gold Conference wins last week to improve to 12-7 overall and 4-0 in conference play. The Warriors traveled to Hinsdale South and defeated the Hornets 13-3 in a six-inning conference game on April 30. Two days later, Willowbrook routed Proviso East 19-0 in a four-inning contest in Villa Park. Senior Sonia Ruchala went 3-for-3 and drove in five runs for the Warriors in last week’s win at Hinsdale South. Ruchala scored four runs for Willowbrook, which piled up seven runs during the top of the fifth inning. Junior Marli Smrz went 3-for4 and scored three runs in the Warriors’ win over the Hornets. Senior Isabel Bates went 2-for-3 with two RBIs. Sophomore Aleena McNamara went 2-for-4 and drove in one run. Sophomore Liz Pettinger went 1-for-3 with two RBIs. Ruchala went 3-for-3 with a home run and drove in three runs in Friday’s dominant victory over Proviso East. Marli Smrz went 3-for-3 with one RBI. Juniors Allie Coppersmith, Adrianna Weaser and Delaney Smrz supplied two hits each. Bates is pictured while firing a pitch during Friday’s game. She didn’t give up any hits in two innings in the circle. Bates recorded four strikeouts and walked one batter. Willowbrook junior Kyleigh Miazga pitched the final two innings of Friday’s game against the Pirates. Miazga did not allow any hits or walks. She struck out four batters.
CHris Fox pHoto Rock Valley Publishing
MIDWEST GUTTER
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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
CLASSIFIED IN-COLUMN ADS cannot be credited or refunded after the ad has been placed. Ads canceled before deadline will be removed from the paper as a service to our customers, but no credit or refund will be issued to your account.
Burial Needs
available on an equal opportunity basis. To complain of discrimination call HUD toll-free at 1-900-669-9777. The toll-free tele phone number for the hearing impaired is 1-800-927-9275. EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY
Business & Service DIRECTORY
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.
DuPage Woodworkers make wooden toys for underprivileged kids
On April 26, 25 members of the DuPage Woodworkers organization gathered at the Woodcraft store in Downers Grove to make wooden toys
for underprivileged kids. Working on a kind of assembly line, they sanded, routed, nailed and glued up cars, SUVs, school buses
and trucks. They nailed and glued the felt-lined doll beds that will, at the holidays, come with a doll and a blanket.
The pig has company: giraffes, turtles and ducks, all with wheels for scooting along the floor.
“We work with about 10 non-profit groups to distribute our toys to kids who generally don’t have a lot during the holidays,” said George Rodgers, of Western Springs, toys committee chair and president of DPWW. “Many of our members make toys all year around, in their own workshops, and as a group twice a year. We produce between 2,500 and 3,000 toys. The vehicles come without a finish so kids can color them any way they’d like.”
The organization purchases wood and felt for the doll beds, along with axles and wheels for the cars and trucks. Many members contribute their own wood, along with their time and woodworking skills. One member stops where houses are being built and asks the workers to save the cut offs to use for toys.
DuPage Woodworkers is open to anyone interested in wood and holds monthly meetings with speakers on a
LEGAL NOTICES
variety of topics. Its meeting schedule is at dupagewoodworkers.org and guests are welcome.
Meetings generally are
on the third Monday of the month at 7 p.m. at St. James the Apostle
MECHANIC’S LIEN NOTICE
This notice is to enforce a Mechanic’s Lien pursuant to Chapter 770 ILCS 45/1 et seq, and 90/1 et seq., against: Bartlomiej Siwicki and First Community Credit Union for the following vehicle, 2022 Jayco Jay Flight 32BH VIN number 1UJBJ0BT7N1TR0349, for the amount owed of $19,385.27. A sale will be held at New Wave Motors, 865 Fairway Dr., Bensenville, IL 60106 after May 26, 2025, unless redeemed by owner within 30 days of the date of the first publication of this notice.
(Published in the Addison Independent, Bensenville Independent & Villa Park Review May 8, 15 & 22, 2025) 471456
NOTICE TO BIDDERS
XEROGRAPHIC COPY PAPER May 8, 2025
The Board of Education, School District 45, DuPage County, 255 West Vermont Street, Villa Park, Illinois 60181, is accepting bids for:
XEROGRAPHIC COPY PAPER
until 10:00 A.M. (CST), Thursday, May 22, 2025, and invites you to bid. The bid opening will be on Thursday, May 22, 2025 starting at 10:00 A.M. (CST).
Contract documents are on file and may be examined at any time on/or after Thursday, May 8, 2025. Any questions or requests for clarifications concerning the bid documents or specifications must be submitted in writing no later than Thursday, May 15, 2025, and directed to:
School District 45,
DuPage County
255 West Vermont Street Villa Park, Illinois 60181
Attention: Jeff Eagan or jeagan@d45.org
All bids shall be submitted to: School District 45, DuPage County 255 West Vermont Street Villa Park, Illinois 60181
Attention: Jeff Eagan, Assistant Superintendent for Finance/ CSBO
Xerographic Copy Paper Bid Opening Thursday, May 22, 2025 at 10:00 A.M. (CST)
No bids may be withdrawn for a period of 60 days after the bid opening date.
The Board of Education reserves the right to waive any immaterial variances or irregularities or reject any or all proposals when, in its opinion, such action will serve the best interest of the Board of Education, School District 45, DuPage County.
By authorization of the Board of Education: Jeff Eagan Assistant Superintendent for Finance/CSBO
(Published in the Addison Independent, Bensenville Independent, Villa Park Review and the Lombardian May 8, 2025) 471533
NOTICE
CERTIFICATE NO. 79688 was filed in the office of the County Clerk of DuPage County on APRIL 21, 2025, wherein the business firm of CHICAGOLAND RESCUE SERVICES, 90 OLESEN DRIVE APT 301, NAPERVILLE, IL 60540 was
registered; that the true or real name or names of the person or persons owning the business, with their respective post office address(es), is/are as follows: Kristian H. Leigh, 90 Olesen Drive Apt 301, Naperville, IL 60540.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and Official Seal at my office in Wheaton, Illinois, this 21ST day of APRIL, A.D. 2025. Jean Kaczmarek DuPage County Clerk (Published in The Lombardian May 1, 8 & 15, 2025) 470941
NOTICE
CERTIFICATE NO. 79695 was filed in the office of the County Clerk of DuPage County on APRIL 29, 2025 wherein the business firm of LA BELLA DONNA VINTAGE CREATIONS, 553 PHEASANT TRAIL, ST. CHARLES, IL 60174 was registered; that the true or real name or names of the person or persons owning the business, with their respective post office address(es), is/are as follows: Ann Maloy, 553 Pheasant Trail, St. Charles, IL 60174.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and Official Seal at my office in Wheaton, Illinois, this 29TH day of APRIL, A.D. 2025. Jean Kaczmarek DuPage County Clerk (Published in The Lombardian May 8, 15 & 22, 2025) 471410
VILLAGE OF LOMBARD NOTICE TO BIDDERS FOR 2025 RM PROG 37 – Manhole Rehabilitation
Time and Place of oPening Bids Notice is hereby given that the Village of Lombard, Illinois, act-
ing through the Department of Public Works, will receive bids via online electronic bidding only through Quest Construction Data Network (QuestCDN) until May 23, 2025 at 11:00 AM, local time for the 2025 RM Prog 37 –Manhole Rehabilitation. Paper bids will not be accepted and will be returned to the bidder unopened. Bids will be publicly read at the Public Works Facility, 1051 S. Hammerschmidt Avenue, Lombard, Illinois immediately after bids are due.
Bid proposals for this Project will be considered to determine the lowest responsible bidder. Judgment on the award of the contract shall be based not only on cost, but also on past performance, experience, and ability to perform the work. The Village of Lombard reserves the right to accept the proposal deemed to be in its own best interest based on all of the above considerations and other considerations the law allows in determining the definition of ‘responsible bidder’. Bids will be acted upon by the President and Board of Trustees.
descriPTion of
Work
This project “Manhole Rehabilitation (FY25)” consists of rehabilitation of 131 sanitary manholes and related work including patching and grouting, and related work as further described in the Contract Documents. Locations and the project areas are provided as an exhibit and are included with these specifications. The CONTRACTOR shall perform work at locations shown on the exhibit or as otherwise directed by the OWNER
availaBiliTy of conTracT documenTs Prospective Bidders must purchase contract documents through Quest Construction
Data Network (QUESTCDN). This can be done via a link on the Village of Lombard website ( www.VillageofLombard.org ) or on the QUESTCDN website (www.questcdn.com). QUESTCDN is a web-based platform for construction project advertisements, bid documents, and plan holder lists. Prospective bidders will need the seven-digit QUESTCDN project number 9674635 to locate the job on the QUESTCDN website search page.
There is a $22.00 non-refundable cost for downloading the contract documents in a pdf format. An online bidding cost of $20.00 will be charged to those contractors who choose to submit an electronic bid through QuestCDN. Bids will not be accepted from any prospective bidder who has not purchased contract documents through QuestCDN. Only online bids through QuestCDN will be accepted.
Notwithstanding the foregoing, plans and specifications may be examined at the following locations:
1) QUESTCDN. The Village electronically posts Plans, Advertisements, Plan Holders Lists, and Addenda to QUESTCDN. For any additional services or assistance contact QUESTCDN at 952-233-1632 or info@questcdn.com.
2) Subscribers to Dodge Data & Analytics may view the documents through their service agreement. For any additional services, data subscribers should contact Dodge Data & Analytics, Telephone: 877-7849556. Web: www.construction. com
3) Subscribers to constructconnect may view the doc-
uments through their service agreement. For any additional services, constructconnect data subscribers should contact constructconnect, Telephone: 877-422-6865. Web: www.constructconnect.com
However, an examination of said plans and specifications at any of these locations or online shall not relieve the prospective bidders from the contract document purchase requirement set forth above.
Bid Security
All bid proposals must be accompanied by a bid bond payable to the Village of Lombard for five percent (5%) of the amount of the bid as provided in the General Requirements. Bidders will need to upload a copy of their bid bond or elect to use Surety2000. No proposals or bids will be considered unless accompanied by such a bond. rejecTion of Bids
The Village reserves the right to defer the award of the contract for a period not to exceed sixty (60) calendar days after the date bids are received, and to accept or reject any or all proposals, and to waive technicalities.
A pre-bid meeting will not be held. Any question(s) must be submitted to the Project Manager huizingab@villageoflombard. org by no later than May 16, 2025 at 3:00 PM. Questions submitted after the deadline shall not be acknowledged. The potential bidder must submit a prequalification form (as supplied in Appendix F of the bid document) by May 16, 2025, at 3:00 PM.
(Published in The Lombardian May 8,
SUBMITTED PHOTO Rock Valley Publishing Woodworker Ron Coliander works on a giraffe.
