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WITHOUT THE HAL L

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VOL. 17 • NO. 4

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Around and around

The Villa Park Parks and Recreation Department’s 4-year-old preschoolers enjoyed some playtime in the Iowa Community Center’s gymnasium on Friday morning. Teachers Lynn Dion (left) and Jo McCarthy (center) led the children in playing with a large nylon parachute. In addition to spinning around in unison and waving

Inside:

THURSDAY, JAN. 14, 2021

CHRIS FOX PHOTO Villa Park Review

the parachute up and down, the children took turns dashing under the parachute while their classmates and teachers held it in the air. The 4-year-old preschoolers attend morning classes at the community center on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays.

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2 • Thursday, Jan. 14, 2021 - Rock Valley Publishing

It all starts with a smile.

Is your smile not as vibrant as it once was? Does your smile need re-vitalizing? Then say hello to Dr. Daniel J. Fornatto.

Our office is located in Elmhurst, near York and Butterfield streets.

We’ve been improving smiles for a long time.

We use the latest dental techniques available to give you the smile you want.

Because your smile is what people notice first, it plays a major role in how you perceive yourself and how others perceive you.

Taking steps to improve your appearance now is an investment in your long-term health and well being.

We can perform many procedures, often simple ones, to enhance your smile and boost your self esteem. Come and see us for a smile evaluation.

We are smile experts and we’re enthusiastic about helping to make your smile sensational. Let us show you what we can do for you.

York Street

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917 South York Street • Elmhurst, IL 60126

917 S. York Street Elmhurst, IL 60126

388233

Rock Valley Publishing - Thursday,Jan. 14, 2021 • 3

First-time Democratic candidates seek York Township seats Grassroots organizing leads to York for Progress slate transparency and accessibility, diversity and inclusion, sustainability and stewardship. Putting this energy and these bright minds to work in York Township will benefit all of our residents by efficient and thoughtful management of resources and better access to needed programs.”

NOTE: All candidates are residents of Lombard.

For Supervisor: Melissa Gonzalez - Lombard Allies for Racial Justice (LARJ) co-founder, doula and Lamaze teacher, professional communicator.

For Clerk: Andrela Hill - community volunteer and business management pro-

News from Congressman Raja Rioters breaching the U.S. Capitol building “I would like to begin by expressing the outrage I have felt this past week, along with so many Americans, as rioters stormed the Capitol Building, breached the Capitol Complex, and laid siege to the Capitol for many hours in an attempt to prevent the certification of the Electoral College vote in the presidential election. This insurrection left at least 5 people dead and numerous people injured, not to mention creating horrendous property destruction. During this chaos, I was forced to evacuate my office along with colleagues from both parties but was thankfully able to shelter in place in another section of the Capitol until the police and National Guard had secured the Capitol grounds. That same night, once the Capitol was secured, my colleagues and I finished the business of certifying the Electoral College vote around 4 A.M. in the morning in a determined show of democracy triumphing over mob rule.

“I am determined and resolute in holding those who perpetrated this assault on our democracy accountable. We must never let this happen again as we will never give in to violence, mob rule, or sedition. I intend to work with people on both sides of the aisle to come together to move our country forward, and I will always fight for and defend the Constitution and democracy at all costs.

The rioters will never prevail.”

Swearing-In of the 117th Congress After Wednesday’s chaos, it’s hard to believe that just on Sunday I was honored to be sworn in as a member of the 117th Congress. This Congress is the most diverse in history and reflects the strength our country has to offer, regardless of party, as we combat the challenges of this pandemic.

I take great pride in my role as your representative and vow to continue my work to improve the lives of everyone in our community.

Update on COVID-19 case rates and vaccine distribution In Illinois, the COVID-19 case positivity rate has increased by 1.2% over the last week to reach an aver-

age of 8.6% this week. While our positivity rate was trending downward in late December, it has unfortunately increased which makes the effective distribution of coronavirus vaccines all the more important. As that process continues, we must continue to follow public health measures and expert guidance, including mask-wearing and practicing social distancing.

So far, the Chicago area has administered more than 34,000 doses of the COVID-19 vaccine. The first group to receive the vaccine are healthcare workers and long-term care facility residents. I am concerned by the lack of federal coordination and communication regarding the distribution of the vaccine, especially given reports that many Chicago-area health systems don’t know when to expect more vaccine shipments. That’s why I’m already working in Congress to ensure that this process is executed carefully and efficiently to accelerate inoculation rates while ensuring vaccine doses don’t expire or go to waste.

Photography Contest for the 8th District I’d like to invite you to participate in my district-wide landscape photography competition. We are lucky to be surrounded by so much beauty and nature in the 8th District of Illinois. I want to see what landscape images our local photographers can capture. To participate, please email your landscape photos of our district

by Sunday, Jan. 31 to KrishnamoorthiPhotoContest@ gmail.com with the photographer’s name, zip code, and the Illinois’ 8th District location of the photograph.

Please submit photos in their highest resolution and be advised that my office may use it. The winning photo will be announced via social media in early February. For more information visit krishnamoorthi.house.gov.

Good luck to all our photographers in the district!

U. S. Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi Representing the 8th District of Illinois

fessional.

For Highway Commissioner: Martin Dunne - President, Chicago Area Rugby Referee Society, Special Olympics volunteer, educator.

For Trustees: Ilse Messner - community leader, dedicated volunteer, finance profes-

sional; Kathy Nash - Prairie Food Co-op co-founder and President, DuPage for Progress co-founder, software engineer, environmental activist; Tomas Novickas - community leader, environmental advocate, infrastructure professional;

Beth Peluse - community and environmental advocate, marketing and communications professional.

For more information visit yorkforprogress.com. Be sure to vote early by mail or in person on Tuesday, April 6, 2021. For more information, visit dupageco.org/election

Health Department COVID-19 vaccine weekly update Since COVID-19 vaccine began arriving in DuPage County, more than 18,000 healthcare workers who live or work in DuPage County have been vaccinated, as of Jan. 4, 2021.

This indicates the County is on track to complete the Phase 1a priority group, including an estimated 43,000 healthcare personnel (HCP), within the projected eight-week timeline. This also reflects that of the doses received, nearly 70% have been administered in DuPage County. Additionally, local hospitals are preparing to administer the second dose of vaccines starting this week.

DuPage County Health Department (DCHD) continues to coordinate the receipt and distribution of COVID-19 vaccine throughout DuPage County. As of Jan. 4, 2021, more than 27,000 doses of Pfizer and Moderna vaccine have been received and distributed in DuPage

County. As vaccine supply increases and local capacity to administer vaccine expands, the Health Department expects the rate of vaccination will increase.

“Despite the challenges created by the Christmas and New Year’s holidays coinciding with the first several weeks of vaccine distribution, we are very pleased with the number of vaccines administered to healthcare workers over the past three weeks,” said executive director of DuPage County Health Department.

The DCHD COVID-19 vaccine clinics continue offering about 1,500 appointments per week for EMS and other healthcare personnel (e.g., dentists, physical therapists, hospice workers, home health care) who are not affiliated with hospitals. Any personnel in this category should register for the COVID-19 Vaccine

Weekly Update. This allows the Health Department to share weekly updates and contact individuals and organizations with opportunities to schedule an appointment as additional vaccine becomes available and in anticipation of a statewide registration system being rolled out.

DCHD is prioritizing administration of vaccine for HCP currently providing direct patient care services who live, work, or attend school in DuPage County. All healthcare personnel who schedule an appointment with DCHD will be required to present verification of their healthcare personnel status, i.e., employee ID badge, check stub, state licensure, or certificate at the time of their appointment. Healthcare personnel who are affiliated with a health system are advised to contact their health system to coordinate vaccination.

Former teacher gets four years for criminal sexual assault with student On Friday, Jan. 8, DuPage County State’s Attorney Robert Berlin announced that on Wednesday, Jan. 6, Judge Alex McGimpsey sentenced a former Joliet Central High School physics teacher to four years in the Illinois Department of Corrections for sexually assaulting a female student at the high school.

Thomas Connelly, 34, of Chicago, entered an agreed plea of guilty Wednesday to one count of Criminal Sexual Assault – Victim 13-17 and Defendant Held Position of Trust or Authority, a Class 1 Felony. On June 27, 2019, a $50,000 with 10% to apply arrest warrant was issued for Connelly. On July 8, 2019, Connelly turned himself in to authorities, posted the necessary 10%, or $5,000, and was released. Following Wednesday’s guilty plea, Connelly was immediately taken into custody to begin serving his sentence.

Connelly’s sentence is the result of allegations that he, according to the indictment, “held, as a former teacher, a position of trust, authority, or supervision in relation to” the victim and engaged in inappropriate sexual behavior with the victim. The inappropriate sexual behavior came to light after school staff overheard students talking about a student having a sexual relationship with a teacher. An investigation led by the Lemont Police Department revealed that Connelly engaged in inappropriate sexual behavior with his victim in May, 2017 at a Naperville hotel.

“By pleading guilty, Mr. Connelly

admitted that he used his position of trust and authority to engage in sexual activity with a female student,” Berlin said. “The four-year sentence he received for such behavior is certainly well-deserved, but in addition, the requirement that he must register as a sex offender for life upon his release from prison will ensure that he will never again be able to take advantage of young, innocent students again.”

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

“

By pleading guilty, Mr. Connelly admitted that he used his position of trust and authority to engage in sexual activity with a female student.”

– Robert Berlin

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A qualified slate of first-time candidates is running for York Township Board in the Consolidated Election to be held on April 6, 2021.

On Tuesday, Dec. 1, the slate was nominated at the York Township Democratic Caucus held outdoors at Cortesi Veterans Memorial Park in Villa Park.

“I am thrilled we have put together such a strong team running for York Township leadership positions,” said Melissa Gonzalez, Candidate for York Township Supervisor. “Within our group we have experts on finance, communications, organizing, collaborating, and management, and all of us share common values of

4VP • Thursday, Jan. 14, 2021 - Rock Valley Publishing

District 88 to present online memorial service for Dr. Scott Helton on Jan. 28

Villa Park reView Your Hometown Newspaper 240 N. West Avenue Elmhurst, IL. 60126

Superintendent passed away in December

Main Phone 630.834-8244 Fax 630.834-0900

District 88 will host a memorial to honor, remember and celebrate the life and legacy of Superintendent Dr. Scott Helton, who died on Dec. 10, 2020. Helton, who was 58 years old, had served as the district’s superintendent since 2012. Prior to that, he spent 11 years as the principal of Addison Trail High School.

The memorial service will air at 7 p.m. on Thursday, Jan. 28. For more information, visit the district’s website at www.dupage88.net.

The district’s website already includes the virtual funeral service for Helton from Dec. 19, 2020. The website also gives community members an opportunity to share a message of sympathy with the Helton family.

In honor of Helton’s legacy, his family has joined with the Partnership for Inspired Education (PIE) Foundation—a 501(c)(3) charitable organization that serves public school students in districts 4, 45, 48 and 88—to establish a scholarship to support and champion the educational success of students with need.

To donate to the Dr. Scott J. Helton Scholarship Fund, visit the district’s website, or mail a check to: PIE Foundation, 2 Friendship Plaza, Addison, IL 60101. Include “Dr. Scott J. Helton Scholarship Fund” in the memo line.

The Villa Park Review is published every Thursday by Rock Valley Publishing, LLC, 240 N. West Avenue, Elmhurst, IL. 60126.

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District 88 will air a memorial service for Dr. Scott Helton at 7 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 28. Helton, the district’s superintendent since 2012, died on Dec. 10, 2020, at the age of 58. Helton’s virtual funeral service from last month is already on the district’s website at dupage88.net/ RememberingScottHelton. The Jan. 28 memorial service will be available at dupage88.net/ScottHeltonMemorialService. Before he became District 88’s superintendent, Helton spent 11 years as the principal of one of the district’s two schools—Addison Trail High School. The district also includes Willowbrook High School. Helton’s career in education spanned more than 33 years.

District 88 interim superintendent writes message to the community

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Board of education named Barbanente to the position following Scott Helton’s death last month

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Subscriptions: The Villa Park Review is mailed to the 60181 zip code areas for $45.00 yearly. Out-of-area mail subscriptions are $50.00 yearly.

For home delivery information call 630.834-8244.

Reprints: Content appearing in the Villa Park Review may not be reprinted without permission of the publisher or editor.

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District 88’s Jan. 8 newsletter included a message from interim superintendent Dr. Jean Barbanente.

In December, the District 88 Board of Education named Barbanente the interim superintendent through June 30, 2021. The board made the appointment less than one week after the death of Dr. Scott Helton, who had served as the district’s superintendent since 2012. Helton passed away at age 58 on Dec. 10, 2020.

Barbanente has been with District 88 since 1995, when she joined the World Language Department at Addison Trail High School to teach Italian and Spanish. She has been an assistant superintendent since 2006.

The district’s two schools—Willowbrook High School and Addison Trail High School—serve a total of about 3,900 students.

Here is Barbanente’s message to the community: For more than 25 years, I have had the honor and privilege to be part of the District 88 family—and nearly 20 of those years were spent working side by side with former District 88 Superintendent Dr. Scott Helton.

It is with an incredibly heavy heart and great sadness that I step into the role of Interim Superintendent after the passing of Dr. Helton on Dec. 10.

Yet it is with great pride and deter-

mination that I continue his legacy.

Scott was not only a colleague and mentor—he also was a tremendous human being and friend, and he will be greatly missed. Scott can never be replaced, but I promise to uphold the tradition of excellence he helped establish at District 88 and to advocate for our students, staff, parents/guardians, schools and communities.

From being in the classroom as a world language teacher, to leading the Addison Trail Guidance Department to serving as a District Director of Learning Services and then as Assistant Superintendent, I have had the opportunity to experience nearly all aspects of the district. I have been the chief adviser to two superintendents for the last 15 years and am confident I will be able to provide a seamless leadership transition to continue serving our students, staff and families. As Interim Superintendent, I will maintain our work to: 1. Develop programming, interventions and policies to close the opportunity gap, increase rigor and expand college and career access for all students 2. Increase opportunities for students to enroll in Advanced Placement (AP)/college-level, Honors and

See MESSAGE, Page 12

CHRIS FOX PHOTOS Rock Valley Publishing

Putting it together

The children in the Villa Park Parks and Recreation Department’s 4-year-old preschool class learned about space and the planets in the solar system during last week’s classes at the Iowa Community Center. As part of that space theme, the preschoolers engaged in a “Reach for the Stars” project that included popsicle sticks as rungs on a ladder, along with moons and stars. The children’s completed artwork was displayed on a bulletin board in the community center’s hallway. The preschoolers who worked on the project included Ryan Stone (below) and Faye Henry (bottom), who both recently turned 5 years old. Ryan (left) and Faye (right) are pictured above with teacher Jo McCarthy (center).

Rock Valley Publishing - Thursday,Jan. 14, 2021 • 5VP

As I write this, the night before Georgia reruns its election for its U.S. senators, we have Biden saying voting in the Democrats will secure the $2,000 stimulus checks instead of $600 checks. Once more, we have Democrats offering bribes for votes. Vote my party in, and you’ll get $1,400 he says! How is this legal? Isn’t this so obvious that it shouldn’t need to be said? I guess Biden doesn’t think enough Democrats are smart enough to figure it out themselves. *** Donald Trump throwing people under the bus who were once loyal to him is nothing new. He threw Jeff Sessions and John Kelly, among others, under the bus, and now he’s done the same to Mike Pence, who loyally stood by him for four years.

Pence defied the almighty Trump, so he basically called Pence a coward.

Here’s what I would have done if I was Mike Pence. After Pence formally certified Joe Biden’s election, he should have walked into to the Oval Office and told Trump, “I’m out of here.” Thank you, Mr. Vice President, for doing your constitutional duty and not bowing to the Whiner in Chief. *** Here’s a message for the people who claim there couldn’t have been any election fraud in 2020.

Wake up! There’s fraud all around us. Look at the police reports in this paper. There are loads of cases of fraud and deception each week,

not to mention the whole country.

There are plenty of dishonest people out there. Many of them were highly motivated to cheat because they desperately wanted to get Trump out of office. The illegal changes in the rules and the flood of mail-in ballots gave them the opportunity to taint the election. *** I agree with the caller who said we need to let the Democrats know we don’t want our taxes increased in Illinois, nor our federal relief taken away by Joe Biden. The Democrats seem to understand—and downplay—protesting in the form of looting, destruction of property and violence. Let us start organizing now, and show them what peaceful, grassroots protesting is about, without the civil unrest. Make our voices heard loud and clear, but not by smashing windows, starting fires and bashing vehicles. If we sit idly by and allow ourselves to be herded like cattle into slaughter—our taxes increased and freedoms decreased—then we deserve to be treated like sheeple. *** Just a quick request to ask people to clear their sidewalks of snow and ice. If you are unable to do it yourself, please hire somebody. Thanks. *** Democrats are incompetent at governing. Look at the places where Democrats have complete control.

Did voters in the 2020 election look at San Francisco, Seattle, Portland, Los Angeles, Chicago, Minneapolis,

New York City and say, let’s have that at the national level? *** It would seem the U.S. House of Representatives is challenging Trump to an idiot contest by passing a bill outlawing the use of any gender specific words. Who do they think they are really representing?

How did these morons get elected?

Are they thinking? Are they capable of coherent thoughts? Have they no pride? (Okay, I withdraw that question. They obviously must be proud on being bigger idiots than Trump.)

Jeez, I’ve seen far more meaningful things come out of a junior high school student council. The only thing keeping them from looking more pathetic than a preschool student council is the lack of a preschool student council anywhere on the planet. Are they just setting the stage to make Biden and Harris look good? *** I was just wondering: Why are liberals so angry? *** It doesn’t matter if you’re holding demonstrations to support Donald Trump, George Floyd, BLM or social justice. Once you cross the line from peaceful demonstrations to vandalism, looting and violence, that’s when you’ve lost my support.

The riots at the U.S. Capitol were disgusting and horrifying. Donald Trump has to shoulder most, if not all, of the blame for this. I’m not

looking forward at all to Biden and the leftists controlling every branch of government, but Donald Trump can’t go soon enough at this point. *** Why does the mainstream media, or should I say the leftist media, have to inject race into everything?

I saw more than one TV newscast run reports suggesting that police would have responded with more force at the U.S. Capitol if the rioters were black instead of white. And the media wonder why their ratings and credibility are in the tank. Stop speculating and report the news. *** So many people are outraged by what happened at the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6. Where were these people during the summer of 2020? Did they see the widespread looting, riots and arson? Did they see the police buildings and police vehicles on fire? Did they see the businesses destroyed? It’s almost comical, and the same people who want to defund police and defend criminals are suddenly fine with an unarmed woman getting shot and killed. *** In that Trump caused the GOP to lose control of the House of Representatives (2018), and the White House (2020), and the Senate (2021), I must say that he really did make America great again. *** Biden and the Democrats did nothing when rioters burned and

looted American cities last summer.

Businesses were destroyed, police stations were burned and monuments were toppled. Democrats and their allies in the media described these events as “mostly peaceful” protests. Democrats have no credibility. *** One of the main advantages the climate-change zealots seem to have is the ignorance of a large amount of the general public. Do these sheep think the weather was completely tranquil for the last few thousand years? It seems there are millions of simpletons who think extreme weather conditions are something new, and that we can prevent them if we drive electric cars and ban plastic bags. Someone’s ready to attribute every tornado, every hurricane, every drought, every heat wave and every blizzard these days to “climate change.” Do a little research, people. All of these events have happened many times before. *** According to NBC, teachers could possibly get the vaccine in Phase 1B, along with first responders and jobs where people are in close contact, like store clerks. My concern is, why should teachers step up until and unless they are going to be in the classroom? If they are teaching from an empty classroom or home base, then those vaccines should go to people at higher risk.

Just my thoughts.

Excellence (Letters and Sciences); and, Villa Park resident Shawn Pieper, who is studying computer science, won a scholarship in Chancellor Scholars.

• Claire Mitchell of Villa Park qualified for the Fall 2020 Dean’s List at Belmont University.

• The following Villa Park students were named to the Knox College Dean’s List for the 2020 Fall Term: Josie Lopez, Maureen Schmid and Daniel Rafac, who is majoring in Environmental Studies.

• Villa Park resident Dalia Cruz

was among 1,382 graduates who received degrees from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln during a virtual graduation celebration Dec. 19. Cruz earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from the College of Business.

• McKenzie Kolp of Villa Park graduated from Michigan State University with Honors, obtaining an Engineering degree in May 2020 to become a civil engineer. She is working for a firm in Wheaton.

Kolp is a graduate of Willowbrook High School.

College news • The following Villa Park residents have started their collegiate journey at Carthage College in Kenosha: Samuel Bruns, Norman Deci and Pearl Hosman.

• The following local area students are among the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater scholarship recipients receiving financial awards for the 2020-21 academic year.

Oakbrook Terrace resident Erinn Bell, who is studying biology, received the Ada Mae Norfleet Alexander Scholarship and College

DuPage County Health Department reports 1,024 COVID-19 related deaths since March Latest update indicates 200 deaths related to the coronavirus during December

STAFF REPORT

The DuPage County Health Department’s daily COVID-19 update of Jan. 10 reported there have been 1,024 deaths related to the coronavirus in county residents since March 2020. The update from the same day reported 63,194 confirmed COVID-19 cases in the county.

There have been 1,960 confirmed COVID-19 cases and 16 deaths related to the coronavirus in Villa Park residents. Lombard has reported 3,266 cases and 44 deaths.

The DuPage County Health Department’s latest COVID-19 information is posted on its website at dupagehealth.org.

The county’s first death related to the coronavirus was reported on March 19, 2020.

According to the county health department’s update on Jan. 10, there were 200 COVID-19 related deaths in DuPage County during the previous month—December 2020. The department’s update from one week earlier— Jan. 3—stated there had been 164 county deaths related to the coronavirus in December.

The health department notes that its figures are provisional and subject to change.

The department’s latest report indicated there were 165 COVID-19 related deaths in DuPage County in November 2020, following 47 in October.

The Jan. 10 update from the DuPage County Health Department reported that 532 (about 52 percent) of the 1,024 COVID-19 related deaths

in the county involved males, while 492 (48 percent) involved females.

As of Jan. 10, about 58 percent (597) of the county’s 1,024 COVID-19 related deaths involved residents age 80 and older. Another 240 deaths involved residents in their 70s, while 121 deaths involved the 60-69 age group.

About 93.5 percent of the county’s 1,024 deaths related to the coronavirus involved residents 60 and older.

One of the county’s 1,024 deaths related to COVID-19 has involved a resident in the 20-29 age group, according to the DuPage County Health Department’s Jan. 10 update. The department has not reported any COVID-19 related deaths in residents 19 and under.

The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) update of Jan. 10 reported 1,028,750 confirmed COVID-19 cases in the state, with 17,574 deaths related to the coronavirus. The IDPH report from Jan. 10 noted more than 14.1 million total tests for COVID-19 had been performed in Illinois. The state’s total population is approximately 12.67 million.

According to the IDPH, as of Jan. 8, about half (8,670) of the state’s COVID-19 related deaths involved residents and staff of longterm care facilities. While residents and staff of those facilities have accounted for nearly half of the state’s coronavirus-related deaths, they’ve made up about 6.5 percent (67,407) of the state’s COVID-19 cases.

6 • Thursday, Jan. 14, 2021 - Rock Valley Publishing

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

A 29-year-old Addison woman was charged with domestic battery in the 100 block of S. Villa at around 5:52 a.m. Police said the suspect punched a victim in the eye, causing it to bleed.

Dec. 18 Patrick R. James, 30, of Addison, was issued a village ordinance for discharge of a firearm in the 700 block of Addison N. 10th at around 3:52 p.m. Police said Jan. 7 James shot a firearm into the ground Police said Scott J. Kafka, 34, of several times.

Addison, had an original warrant out of the Addison Police Department for Villa Park aggravated DUI in the 700 block of 9th Jan. 4 Avenue at around 9:11 p.m.

Marcus Jones, 28, of Wheaton, was charged with unlawful possession of Jan. 4 cannabis by the driver, driving while A 42-year-old Addison man was license suspended and improper use of charged with domestic battery in the registration near Roosevelt and West100 block of N. Church at around 2:09 more at around 1:31 a.m. a.m. Police said the suspect grabbed a victim by the hair, pulled her into the Jan. 3 bedroom and struck the victim on the Donald Fisk, 37, of Melrose Park, face and head with a closed fist mul- was charged with violation of an order tiple times. of protection, failure to secure a child under the age of 8 and no insurance Jan. 2 near Roosevelt and Route 83 at around Malik M. Webster, 23, of Elgin, 3:47 p.m. was charged with criminal trespass to a vehicle in the 500 block of W. Lake Jan. 1 at around 10 a.m. Police said Webster Tatiana Angarkhaeva, 35, of Oakremained in a vehicle after being asked brook Terrace, was charged with retail to remove himself several times. theft at a local store at around 9:17 p.m.

Theft of lost or mislaid property was Jan. 1 reported at a local store at around 8:45 Pablo Hernandez, 22, of Hanover p.m. Police said an unknown suspect Park, was charged with disorderly con- took a wallet that was left behind. The duct and criminal damage to property wallet contained multiple credit cards, in the 2100 block of Adobe Drive at a debit card, nine Apple gift cards and around 1:48 a.m. Police said officers $188 in cash.

responded to a call of a man outside a residence banging on the front door and screaming. The front door was found damaged and the resident was alarmed and disturbed by the incident, according to police.

Dec. 31 Retail theft was reported at a local store at around 1:16 p.m. Police said an unknown suspect failed to pay at the self-checkout and left the store without

paying for the items.

Dec. 29 Michael Fischer, 23, of Plainfield, was charged with retail theft at a local store at around 5:13 p.m.

Eric Schwolow, 26, of Villa Park, was charged with DUI and no insurance near Riordan and Villa at around 1:41 a.m.

Theft was reported in the 200 block of W. Park at around 5:03 p.m. Police said an unknown suspect took a package from the porch of a house. The package contained children’s books.

Criminal damage to a vehicle was reported in the 300 block of W. Division at around 6:22 p.m. Police said an unknown suspect(s) threw rocks from the railroad and broke a rear windshield of a vehicle that was unoccupied and parked in the lot.

Bensenville The Bensenville Police Department recently reported the following arrests and citations. Persons who are charged with domestic battery are not named in order to protect the victim’s privacy. Readers are reminded that an arrest does not constitute a conviction, and that suspects are considered innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law.

Juveniles age 17-or-younger are not named.

Jan. 6, 3:08 p.m. in the 1200 block of N. Ellis St., a complainant reported that an unknown suspect cashed a check without complainant’s authorization. This case is under investigation.

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Jan. 2, 12:03 a.m. in the 500 block of W. Grand Ave., Alaster R. Ford, 28, of Chicago, was arrested for driving under the influence of drugs, no valid driver’s license and other traffic violations. BEPC2100002.

Jan. 2, 10:11 p.m. in the 1100 block of David Drive, David G. Kucera, 44, was arrested for disorderly conduct.

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Jan. 1, 2:14 a.m. in the 1100 block of David Drive, Aristeo Cervantes, 42, was arrested for disorderly conduct.

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Dec. 31, 5:47 a.m. in the 1000 block of N. Route 83, Tiffany Ann McGinnis, 33, of Indianapolis, was arrested for an out of jurisdiction warrant.

BECP2001119.

Dec. 23 Retail theft was reported at a local store at around 12:48 p.m. Police said an unknown suspect under-rang items to purchase while at the self-checkout.

The suspect left the store without paying for the items.

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Jan. 5, 1:49 p.m. near E. Green St. and S. York Road, Edward J. Coronel, 24, of Chicago, was arrested for driving while license was revoked, operating an uninsured motor vehicle, obstructing identification and a traffic violation. BEPC2100009.

Jan. 5, 10:31 p.m. in the 1000 block of S. Thorndale Ave., Santos O. Rodriguez, 34, of Glendale Heights, was arrested for disorderly conduct and resisting an officer. BEPC21000010.

Jan. 4, 9:42 p.m. near N. Franzen St. and W. Hillside Drive, a complainant reported a family member took their vehicle without authorization which caused criminal damage to three residential home. This case is under investigation. BEPC2100008.

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CLUES ACROSS 1. Big tech firm 4. Picked 10. Type of whale 11. A woman of refinement 12. New England state 14. Common gibbon 15. Tall coniferous tree 16. State capital 18. Making a liquid muddy 22. Vinegary 23. Peninsula 24. Thee 26. Atomic #55 27. Used in units of measurement 28. Welsh female name 30. Arab ruler title 31. One’s mother 34. Trap 36. Soviet Socialist Republic 37. Assn. of oil-producing countries 39. Holy fire 40. Emit coherent radiation 41. Atomic #81 42. Orthodox Jewish college 48. Herbs 50. Ran after 51. Begin again 52. Named 53. Barbary sheep 54. Unwell 55. Postscript 56. Drivers 58. One point east (clockwise) of due north

59. Prim 60. A facility equipped for sports or physical training CLUES DOWN 1. Small islands 2. Skullcap 3. Unexplained events 4. One hundredth of a meter 5. Beloved baseball announcer 6. Repulsive 7. Northern European languages 8. Match or surpass 9. Northeast 12. Chew the fat 13. Innovative industry 17. Land to put down to grass 19. Products 20. Nostril 21. Surprise Icelandic politician 25. Conclusive acts 29. Inform on 31. Grinding tooth 32. Keep up 33. Tablelands 35. Raising 38. Mythical creature 41. Hums 43. Mountain in Antarctica 44. Neighborhood in Manhattan 45. Distinctive practice 46. Vice president 47. Contributes to 49. Small bones 56. Oil company 57. Empire State

Rock Valley Publishing - Thursday,Jan. 14, 2021 • 7

Dr. Antonios Papadopoulos is closing his practice at 240 E. Lake St., Suite 102 Addison, IL 60101 Dr. Papadopoulos has practiced medicine in his private office and will be retiring effective January 16, 2021.

He has sold his practice to Doctor M. Vaseemuddin.

SUDOKU

If a patient would like to obtain copies of his/hers medical records please contact the office at 630-782-9780 and copies will be provided.

Fun by the Numbers

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8 • Thursday, Jan. 14, 2021 - Rock Valley Publishing

All Brick McDougall Ranch This 3 bed/2 bath home sits on a 60 x 168 lot across the street from Visitation Grade School. Hardwood floors throughout the entire first floor, new kitchen floor tiling, Stainless Steel Appliances, Newer Countertops, Breakfast nook picnic table, well kept Living Room Fireplace perfect for the Winter months, Finished basement with an additional 4th Bedroom w/ large walk in closet, All Brick 2.5 Car Garage, large spacious deck for Summer months and deep back yard. Low taxes! Close to Oak Brook Mall, Expressways, and More! $385,000

All Brick McDougall Ranch

This 3 bed/2 bath home sits on a 60 x 168 lot across the street from Visitation Grade School. Hardwood floors throughout the entire first floor, new kitchen floor tiling, Stainless Steel Appliances, Newer Countertops, Breakfast nook picnic table,

Build New or Rehab

Build New or Rehab

Attention Builders or Rehabbers. Great potential for building your Dream House located in awesome neighborhood. The home is situated on a 50 x 167. 3 bedrooms, 1.5 baths, stainless steel appliances, full unfinished basement. Tiny Tot

$385,000 NEW PRICE!

$309,900 NEW PRICE!

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

Wise Builders

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

Attention Savvy Investors!

Attention Savvy Investors!

Well-maintained 3 bed / 2.1 bath townhome in sought after Lancaster Square. Open floor plan w/ hardwood floors & spacious living area. Large eat-in kitchen w/ island, stainless appliances & great storage leads to balcony space. On the

$1,250,000 WISE INVESTMENT BUILDERS

$269,900

What a View!

What a View!

Open and airy 2 bed / 2 bath Condo featuring 11 foot floor to ceiling windows. Beautiful and spacious kitchen with granite tops, stainless appliances and backsplash & ample storage.

Master bedroom with large walk-in-closet, en-suite with double $419,000

Attention Builders or Rehabbers. Great potential for building your Dream House located in awesome neighborhood. The home is situated on a 50 x 167. 3 bedrooms, 1.5 baths, stainless steel appliances, full unfinished basement.

Tiny Tot Park located just 3 homes away. Close to downtown Elmhurst amenities, great expressway access.

Home needs TLC or build new! $309,900

Open and airy 2 bed / 2 bath Condo featuring 11 foot floor to ceiling windows. Beautiful and spacious kitchen with granite tops, stainless appliances and backsplash & ample storage.

Master bedroom with large walk-in-closet, ensuite with double vanity sink and large soaking tub. In-unit laundry. Steps to everything in this vibrant Fulton Market / West Loop localeRestaurants, Bars, Mariano’s, Whole Foods, Jewel, CTA, Metra, easy highway access & much more. Well-managed building with Doorman, Fitness Center, Dog Run & Bike Storage. Indoor heated garage is included. Unwind on your private balcony with picturesque Skyline views. $419,000

Well-maintained 3 bed / 2.1 bath townhome in sought after Lancaster Square. Open floor plan w/ hardwood floors & spacious living area. Large eat-in kitchen w/ island, stainless appliances & great storage leads to balcony space. On the 2nd level you will find the primary bedroom en-suite w/ walk-in-closet, two additional bedrooms / home office, full bathroom & conveniently located laundry. Cozy lower level family room w/ gas fireplace & attached 2 car garage. Ideal location is easily accessible to downtown Lombard, Yorktown & Oak Brook malls, shopping, restaurants, schools, IL Prairie Path, train & major transportation routes. $269,900

Best Value in Town!

Best Value in Town!

This Charming 5 bedroom, 3.5 bathroom Home has plenty of room to grow, 2,466 sf with an additional 1,502 sf of finished living space in the basement, including a wet bar. Beautiful hardwood floors throughout the 1st floor. The 2 bedrooms on $598,000

This Charming 5 bedroom, 3.5 bathroom Home has plenty of room to grow, 2,466 sf with an additional 1,502 sf of finished living space in the basement, including a wet bar.

Beautiful hardwood floors throughout the 1st floor. The 2 bedrooms on the main level offer flexibility for a home office, art studio, or an in-law arrangement. The 2nd floor addition features large master bedroom with en suite. Highly efficient dual zoned heating and air conditioning. The oversized lot (63 x 221) has plenty of privacy, yardspace, and a patio space for entertaining. Large 2.5 car garage with walk-up loft. $598,000

Rarest of Opportunities

Rare 1st floor master suite on a 3,500sf main level footprint.

Set on a 75x190 meticulously landscaped lot on one of the center of town’s quietest and best streets. Lots of prep for the market - tear off roof (2020), new carpet, fresh paint, $1,299,900

Center of Town with 1st Floor Master Rarest of Opportunities

388231

Rare 1st floor master suite on a 3,500sf main level footprint. Set on a 75x190 meticulously landscaped lot on one of the center of town’s quietest and best streets. Lots of prep for the market - tear off roof (2020), new carpet, fresh paint, refinished hardwood floors, and new windows. 4 beds, 4 baths, & heated 3 car garage w/ internal staircase to the basement. Chef’s kitchen w/ large prep/entertaining island, large separate eating area, high end SS appliances, w/ vaulted ceilings. And MUCH MORE! $1,299,900

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

Rock Valley Publishing - Thursday,Jan. 14, 2021 • 9

Interest rates under 3% and low inventory levels make this a perfect time to sell your home! Call 630-279-9500 for a FREE MARKET ANALYSIS on your home.

Premier Location!

Premier Location!

Check out the new and refreshed look complete with NEW ROOF, NEW 96% High-efficiency Lennox furnace with transferrable warranty, & freshly painted interior! Enjoy the quiet tree-lined prestigious single block of S Lawndale from $559,000

Check out the new and refreshed look complete with NEW ROOF, NEW 96% Highefficiency Lennox furnace with transferrable warranty, & freshly painted interior! Enjoy the quiet tree-lined prestigious single block of S Lawndale from your front porch of this updated and expanded Georgian, yet close to all Elmhurst has to offer in this center of town location - shops, restaurants, train, & expressway access. This light-filled 3 bed / 2.1 bath home boasts flexible living conducive to work from home or e-learning needs and great entertainment options with a floor plan perfect for today’s owner. $559,000

Double Wide Lot For Sale

Double Wide Lot For Sale

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

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

Convenient access to all major transportation routes. Top-rated Field Elementary school. Well built 2 bed / 2 bath / 1765 sq ft brick and stone Ranch home is currently on property. Flexicore basement ceiling. Rehab, add on, or build new. As-Is Sale. Value in the land. $279,000

$279,000

Chic, Modern Farmhouse

2016 built modern farmhouse in sought after Jefferson school district. Covered, bluestone front porch welcomes you to 4 impressive levels of finished living space. Open 1st floor with white custom kitchen with large island, large family room with 1,099,900

Chic, Modern Farmhouse 2016 built modern farmhouse in sought after Jefferson school district. Covered, bluestone front porch welcomes you to 4 impressive levels of finished living space. Open 1st floor with white custom kitchen with large island, large family room with gas fireplace flanked by built-ins, 1st floor office/e-learning, mudroom with built-in, powder room, formal dining room, and parlor room. The 2nd level offers 4 beds & 3 full baths, with impressive primary suite with walk-in closets and gorgeous bathroom. All bedrooms have bathroom access and large walk-in closets. The 3rd level is a finished yoga/zen/workout space with full bathroom.

Fully finished basement with full bath, bedroom, play area, and rec room with fireplace. Fenced yard with large playset and dog run on side yard. Freshly painted interior, custom window treatments and backup generator. Walk to Butterfield Park, Jefferson/Visitation schools, the Prairie Path, and great highway access. Nothing to do but unpack! 1,099,900

Center of Town

Set for delivery in Spring 2021, this new Center of Town luxury home’s location puts you within walking distance to everything! Being built by a well respected, long-time Elmhurst builder working alongside an interior designer set to help pick 1,295,000

388232

Center of Town Set for delivery in Spring 2021, this new Center of Town luxury home’s location puts you within walking distance to everything! Being built by a well respected, long-time Elmhurst builder working alongside an interior designer set to help pick out all of your finishes & fixtures. Offering over 4,800 sf of finished living space with its fully finished basement - exercise room, rec room, custom bar and wine room! Gracious 10 ft first floor ceilings welcome you to this impressive home with HWF’s & extensive trim & ceiling detail throughout, 5 beds, 4.5 baths, a 2.5 car garage, custom kitchen w/ huge island, high-end SS appliances (Wolf & Sub-Zero) & eating area open to family rm w/ fireplace, master suite w/ spa bath, designer plumbing/lighting fixtures, surround sound + more! Equipped with all the bells and whistles - backup generator, central vac, security system, and irrigation system. All this within walking distance to Field GS (rebuild in 2023), the Metra station and Elmhurst’s City Centre. 1,295,000

10 • Thursday, Jan. 14, 2021 - Rock Valley Publishing

E VE RYW H E R E E L S E I T ’ S H E A LT H C A R E

HERE, IT’S PERSONAL KEITH NGUYEN, P HARM D - CLINICAL PHARMACIST At Edward-Elmhurst Health, our care doesn’t stop when our shift ends. And pharmacist Keith Nguyen lives that attitude every day. For him, healthcare is a calling, and a 24/7 commitment, where putting others before himself is routine. His greatest reward is knowing he’s had a positive impact on his patients. That’s how it is for all of us here at Edward-Elmhurst Health.

Because for us, THIS IS PERSONAL. ThisIsPersonalEEH.org

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Villa Park Chamber says thank you Thank you from the Villa Park Chamber of Commerce and the Village of Villa Park for helping to make this COVID Christmas in Villa Park as creative and joyful as it could be.

The Peppermint Prairie Path was a perfect landing strip for Santa to visit the children in Villa Park from afar but near enough to spread cheer throughout our community.

So many of you enjoyed and submitted your selfie with an elfie, wrote letters to Santa, filled the candy basket when it was empty, enjoyed the decorations, music and the sneak peek into Santa’s workshop.

We can’t thank the community and especially our sponsors enough for making the best Joyful Traditions Ever in Villa Park! I am so proud and thankful to live in a community that cares about their neighbors, their friends, strangers, the less fortunate, and give back in so many ways.

A special and heartfelt joyful thanks to our sponsors who made this happen so we could bring Villa Park happiness! Here’s hoping 2021 will allow us to gather together again as one united community!

NIKRO Industries J.W Reedy Realtors Chicago Wealth Management (Matt Schmit) Mikes Meat Market Atomic Transmissions Porte Brown Dominick’s Pizza and Pasta The Wreck Room Columbia Care First Midwest Bank BMO Harris Bank Boulevard Coins Robust Promotions Odeum Expo Center Positive Impressions Chris Aiello Attorney G.M. Smith & Sons Realtors Miracle Method Bessette Chiropractic AAA Overhead Door Villa Park Office Equipment Montgomery Insurers Sooper Lube Terrace Floor Dan Verr Ridgeway Precision Mechanical B & B Tile Ace Hardware Donn Craft Cain attorney Cherokee Rose Embroidery Bob Goldin State Farm Agency Steuerle Funeral Home J & R Cycle Representative Deb Conroy Tri Town YMCA Charley’s Auto Service Alesia Bailey Executive Director Villa Park Chamber of Commerce

Under my father’s fedora

The last time this happened… a visit back to 1856

So much has been said about the events in Washington, D.C. last week and it’s turned the world topsy-turvy.

We like to have our newspaper feature local news almost exclusively and yet, it’s hard not to acknowledge last week when a crowd of miscreants stormed into the U.S. Capitol and turned it into a battleground rather than a center of democracy.

Instead of rehashing last week, let’s go back 164+ years to the LAST time there was an attack – an actual physical attack – on the floor of the U.S. Senate. It takes us back to the days of Henry Wadsworth Longfellow*(see below).

Sen. Charles Sumner of Massachusetts was one my Uncle Henry Wadsworth Longfellow’s best friends. Both were staunch abolitionists. Uncle Henry wrote a series he called his “Slave Poems” that spoke to the plight of “the man who is not free.”

In 1856, the U.S. was still developing west and welcoming new territories to the union. Laws or agreements governed that process and, well, some were better than others. One of the most contentious was the Kansas-Nebraska Act. As Kansas and Nebraska become territories, Washington legislators made the decision that, once settled, the residents could vote and decide for themselves whether to be a free state or a slave state. That led to a rush of people – on both sides of the argument – moving out to those territories so they

blood to pour over his head and into his eyes, rendering Sumner blind.

By “I no longer saw my assailant, DEE nor any other person or object in the LONGFELLOW room,” Sumner recalled later. “What I did afterwards was done almost EDITOR unconsciously, acting under the instincts of self-defense.”

When he was finally able to free could vote for their respective side. himself, Sumner staggered up the On May 19, 1856, Sen. Charles aisle, arms outstretched, vainly Sumner gave a speech fiercely critattempting to defend himself. But icizing the Kansas-Nebraska Act Brooks continued to beat him across and all slaveholders, including some the head, face and shoulders. Even related to then-U.S. Representative when the cane broke, Brooks did not Preston Brooks, a pro-slavery Demlet up, continuing to strike Sumner ocrat from South Carolina. Brooks with the piece that had the gold and others were outraged by the knob. speech.

Finally, Sumner stumbled and Two days later on May 22, toward collapsed unconscious on the floor. the end of the day, U. S. RepresentaSeveral other Senators and Repretive Brooks with two senators at his sentatives attempted to help Sumner, side entered the Senate floor. They but were blocked by Brooks and his waited for the galleries to clear, asown supporters, including Laurence suring that there were no ladies presM. Keitt, the other representative ent to witness what Brooks intended from South Carolina. Senator John to do. He approached Sumner’s desk, J. Crittenden, a Republican from stood before him and spoke in a low Kentucky, pleaded with Brooks not voice. to kill Sumner and he eventually re “Mr. Sumner, I have read your lented. speech twice over carefully. It is a On May 24, 1856, Uncle Henry libel on South Carolina.” wrote the following to his friend: Sumner tried to stand up but be“Sumner: fore he could get to his feet, Brooks “I have no words to write you struck him severely on the head, usabout this savage atrocity, only ing a thick walking cane with a gold enough to express our sorrow and knob on top. Sumner was knocked to sympathy for yourself. I have been the floor and was trapped under his in great distress here. Yesterday heavy desk, which was bolted to the morning [John] Owen came to tell floor. The force of the blows caused me of this great feat of arms of the

Southern Chivalry; he was absolutely sobbing and crying. …

“A brave and noble speech you made; never to die out of the memories of men!

“Yours, HWL” Then on May 28, he wrote the following: “I have just been reading again your speech. It is the greatest voice, on the greatest subject, that has been uttered since we became a nation.

No matter for insults, -- we feel them with you; no matter for wounds, -we also bleed in them! You have torn the mask off the faces of traitors; and at last, the spirit of the North is aroused.” *Crash course for newcomers: I really am an heir, HWL was an uncle a few generations back and there are papers in my lockbox to prove it. I have studied him extensively and own books not only of poetry but also his letters, journals and diaries. Yes, Henry was an uncle; we are direct descendants of his brother Stephen, who died at the age of 45 of alcoholism!

Here’s something cool…

When researching the details for this column, there was a YouTube video called “The Caning of Charles Sumner explained,” on the channel Mr. Beat. If you watch the montage of photos, at minute 6:01, Sumner is seated across a table from another man – and it’s HWL! You may recognize his big bushy beard. How cool is that?

Worship Services Directory

Be a part of the Worship Services

Lift your eyes! Hope is here.

Find our hope-filled community on Facebook @ImmanuelElmhurst and at www.ImmanuelElmhurst.org 142 E. Third St. Elmhurst, IL

immanuelelmhurst.org 630-832-1649

387636

Letter to the editor

Rock Valley Publishing - Thursday,Jan. 14, 2021 • 11

Directory for as low as $15 per week Call...Brenda at 630-834-4450 301805

387742

12VP • Thursday, Jan. 14, 2021 - Rock Valley Publishing

Analysis

High school football, basketball games can be electric; that electricity has been missing for months IHSA moved football from the fall to the spring; basketball and other winter sports have yet to begin

By Chris Fox

VILLA PARK REVIEW STAFF REPORTER

It’s a difficult time for the state’s high school athletes, who have been sidelined by the COVID-19 pandemic. Thousands of teenagers aren’t able to compete in the sports they love.

Seniors must be especially frustrated. Some of them are likely wondering if they will have a senior

season at all. Parents and coaches are also missing the action.

In terms of community events, no other sports compare to football and basketball. A competitive football or basketball contest in a stadium or gym packed with enthusiastic student sections, a band, cheerleaders and spectators is a special event.

Those events have been missing in this area for nearly one year.

The Willowbrook football team hasn’t played a competitive contest since Nov. 23, 2019. On that day, the Warriors faced Mount Carmel in an IHSA Class 7A semifinal battle in Villa Park. Mount Carmel defeated the Warriors 27-6. The Caravan went

Christmas tree pickup in Villa Park ends next week; residents asked to remove all ornaments and lights The Village of Villa Park’s refuse-collection provider — Roy Strom — is picking up Christmas trees during this week’s and next week’s collections.

The last day for pickup will be

• Message

Thursday, Jan. 21.

Roy Strom reminds residents that the collected trees will be recycled.

Be sure to remove all ornaments and lights. Do not place trees into plastic bags.

(Continued from page 4)

Dual-Credit courses 3. Increase vocational opportunities and global experiences for students through local and international partnerships 4. Implement social-emotional supports for students and staff through culturally responsive, trauma-informed and restorative practices 5. Ensure an equitable and inclusive environment in which all students, staff and community members feel safe and welcome 6. Maximize resources for student learning and offer a comprehensive curriculum to build futures for all students, while remaining fiscally responsible 7. Uphold our Mission, Vision and Strategic Plan (www.dupage88.net/ StrategicPlan2018) 8. Connect with and care for students and staff to provide a positive learning experience during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic (www.dupage88.net/ReturnToSchoolPlan) 9. Communicate with all stakeholders in a transparent and honest manner This has been an unprecedented and challenging year as we deal with the loss of Dr. Helton, the adverse impacts of COVID-19 and social unrest. But we will get through this together. I look forward to partnering collaboratively with our Board of Education, staff, students, parents/ guardians and community members for a seamless transition as we move forward in District 88.

We will remain focused on accomplishing our mission of working for the continuous improvement of student achievement to champion student success.

SUBMITTED PHOTO Rock Valley Publishing

District 88 interim superintendent Dr. Jean Barbanente issued a message to the community in last week’s District 88 newsletter. The District 88 Board of Education recently appointed Barbanente as interim superintendent through June 30, 2021. The board made the appointment last month, a few days after the Dec. 10 death of Dr. Scott Helton. The district’s superintendent since 2012, Helton died at the age of 58. Barbanente has worked for the district for 25 years. She joined the district in 1995 as a member of the World Language Department at Addison Trail High School, where she taught Italian and Spanish. Barbanente became the Guidance Department Chair at Addison Trail in 2002.

She was named an assistant superintendent in 2006. Barbanente received her doctorate in educational leadership from Aurora University in 2019.

My door is always open, and I welcome you to contact me at any time at jbarbanente@dupage88.net or 630-530-3980. Thank you for your continued support of District 88.

on to beat Nazareth Academy in the Class 7A state championship game to complete a 14-0 season. Willowbrook finished the season with an 11-2 record.

The pandemic led the IHSA to shift the football season for the 202021 school year from the fall to the spring.

The football season is tentatively scheduled to take place from Feb. 15 to May 1, 2021.

The winter basketball seasons for boys and girls were supposed to start in November 2020 and continue through Feb. 13, 2021. But those seasons haven’t begun, as all IHSA sports have been on pause since the middle of November. The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) has designated basketball as a highrisk sport. It’s possible that other winter sports labeled as low-risk— including girls gymnastics, bowling, cheerleading, dance and boys swimming—could start up, while basketball remains sidelined.

The Willowbrook boys basketball team hasn’t played a competitive

game since its memorable post-season battle with Glenbard East in Villa Park on March 3, 2020. The Warriors and Rams squared off in an IHSA Class 4A regional semifinal game.

Willowbrook held a 10-point lead with about six minutes to play, but the Rams stormed back and eventually sent the game into overtime by making a last-second shot at the end of regulation. Playing in front of a packed gym featuring boisterous student sections supporting both teams, Glenbard East defeated Willowbrook 75-70 in overtime.

Three days later, the Rams beat Batavia 81-79 in overtime to capture the title at the Willowbrook Regional.

Glenbard East’s boys basketball season ended the following week with a narrow 62-58 loss to Naperville Central in a sectional semifinal game at Addison Trail on March 11.

Even if the Rams would have won that contest, it would have been their last game of the season. On March 12, one day before Naperville Central was supposed to play Lake Park

in the championship game of the Addison Trail Sectional, IHSA canceled its remaining winter state post-season tournaments, including boys basketball, because of the pandemic.

Some people might remember March 12, 2020, as the day the nation stripped store shelves of toilet paper and paper towels. One day later, on March 13, Gov. JB Pritzker ordered all K-12 public and private schools to close to in-person instruction through March 30.

Pritzker subsequently announced he would extend the statewide school closure, first through April 7, then through April 30. On April 17, he declared that the closure would last through the remainder of the 201920 school year.

The competitive seasons in several spring sports, including badminton, girls soccer, softball and baseball, were supposed to begin during the week of March 16, 2020. Those seasons never started. On April 21, the IHSA announced its decision to cancel all of its spring state tournaments.

Villa Park Library events Saturday, Jan. 16 • Library presents slowerpaced online workout The Villa Park Public Library is presenting Age Reversing Gentle Stretch: Slow-paced Full Body Stretch. The workout is 40 minutes in length and is designed to be slowpaced. This class will be prerecorded and available online via YouTube.

Registration is required, and the program link will be emailed out to all registrants. For more information, visit the library’s website at vppl.info or call 630-834-1164.

• Library presents online Saturday morning storytimes The Villa Park Public Library will present Marvelous Mornings online storytimes at 11 a.m. Young children and their adults can enjoy stories, songs, and activities including a craft project to enjoy together. Registration with a valid email address is required. Information about how to access the online program will be sent via email shortly before the program begins. For more information, visit the library’s website at vppl.info or call 630-834-1164.

vant chapters in the Great Decisions briefing book which is available for checkout at the Library. A topic-related video will also be shown at each discussion. Registration is required for each session. For more information, visit the library’s website at vppl.info or call 630-834-1164.

Monday, Jan. 18 Library begins 2021 Great Decisions discussion series The Villa Park Public Library is set to kick off its eight-part 2021 Great Decisions online discussion series from 7-8:30 p.m. This program highlights eight critical foreign policy challenges facing Americans each year. Supported by the Foreign Policy Association for over 50 years, Great Decisions is America’s largest discussion program on world affairs.

Participants prepare for the moderated discussions by reading the rele-

• CUB offers free utility bill clinic through the Library The Citizens Utility Board (CUB) is offering an online Utility Bill Clinic through the Villa Park Public Library on the above date. All are welcome to sign up for a free 30-minute one-on-one consultation with an energy expert from CUB. Sessions will be held online via Zoom, and various timeslots are available. Registration is required.

For more information, visit the library’s website at vppl.info or call 630-834-1164.

Monday, Jan. 25 • Library presents Medicare 101 The Villa Park Public Library will present Medicare 101 from 7-8:30 p.m. Attendees can get up to speed on what Medicare covers, what it doesn’t, and their potential out-ofpocket exposure. They will also learn about Supplements, Advantage Plans, Part D Prescription Coverage, and cost-saving strategies for the years ahead. This program will be held online via Zoom. Registration and a valid email address are required. The link for the meeting and instructions on how to attend will be sent to all registrants via email. For more information, visit the library’s website at vppl.info or call 630-8341164.

Thursday, Jan. 28 Library presents I Miss You postcards The Villa Park Public Library will present I Miss You Postcards— Valentine’s Day Edition! from 6-7 p.m. At this virtual program, participants will use a kit to make a great project to send to loved ones! Kits are available at the Library and cost $3 per person, per project. The program will be online via Zoom, but it will also be recorded and viewable until Thursday, January 28 for those who cannot make the live session. Registration is required.

For more information, visit the Library’s website at vppl.info or call 630-834-1164.

Ongoing program Winter Reading Program returns to Library Journey beyond the covers of books with Dig Deeper, the Villa Park Public Library’s 2021 Winter Reading Program. The program officially launched online with Beanstack on Jan. 4. This is the same system the library used for Summer Reading 2020. Itis a fun, free, easy-to-use app for iOS or Android devices. Returning readers can easily join in the challenge from the Beanstack website or app, and new readers can sign up from the library’s website. Get ready to start tracking reading, collecting badges, and earning tickets for prize drawings this winter. The adult and youth programs offer fun for all ages. Both programs are free, easy, and open to everyone.

For more information, visit the library’s website at vppl.info or call 630-834-1164.

of 18 living with parents or legal Retail-or Office Use Rock Valley Publishing Thursday,Jan. 14, 2021 • 13 custodians, pregnant women (630) 833-3500 ext 207 and people securing custody of woodmechanical.net Charlie children under 18. This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law.

OfficE (630) 627-7010 Elmhurst OfficE (630) 834-8244 Our readers are hereby informed all lassifiEds at advertisedliOmbard nin -Print and OnlnE at www.lOmbardian.infO in-Print and OnlnE at www.thEindEPEndEntnEwsPaPErs.cOm that all dwellings this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis.

To PERSONALS MISCELLANEOUS BUSINESS & SERVICE FOR SALE complain of discrimination call JK MAINTENANCE CLASSIFIED IN-COLUMN ADS HANDYMAN BILL HUD toll-free at 1-900-669-9777. cannot be credited or refunded MIRACULOUS PRAYER Never Known to Fail The toll-free tele phone THE number PAINTING Household & MORE Reliable Handyman Gutters Building Repair/ Oh, most beautiful flower of Mt. after the ad has been placed.

Dear Heart of Jesus, in the Announcements for the hearing impaired is 1-800• Drywall & Tile Repair Carmel, fruitful vine,deadline splendor of Specializing in general maintenance past I have asked You canceled for Ads before Remodeling 927-9275.IN-COLUMN EQUAL heaven, blessed mother of the • Deck Repairs & Restaining ADS HOUSING many favors, but today JK MAINTENANCE DECLUTTER YOUR HOME FOR CLASSIFIED will beI removed from the paper and repair both inside and out.

Son of God. cannot be credited or refunded OPPORTUNITY • Driveway Sealcoating ask You this special one A FRESH START IN 2021!

GUTTERS CLEANED after the ad has been placed.

Immaculate Virgin, assist me in as a service to our customers, FREE ESTIMATES • REASONABLE RATES [mention request]. Take it CARL WUNSCHEL BLDRS. Ads canceled before deadline “No Job Too Small” • FAST my necessity.

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vertise any preference, limitation 247169 or discrimination based on race, LOOKING FOR color, religion, sex, disability, familiar/ status or national origin, CAREGIVER or an intention to make any such PT Caregiver Needed preference, limitation or discrimiNo Experience Necessary nation. Familial status includes Please Call children under the age of 18 living 331-903-7317 388393 ~ Free Estimates ~ with parents or legal custodians, pregnant women and people seAmerican curing custody of children under Flyer, Lionel trains, BarPractice in 18. This newspaper bie will not knowand otherDental dolls;Specialty G.I. Joe, Toningly accept any advertising for Elmhurst is seeking a mature Matchbox, Hot Wheels cars real estate which is ka, in violation of part-time assistant. Prefer&to the law. Our readers are hereby more!

Plus any other antiques and train the right person. informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are Call: Proudly serving DuPage County for 10 years! collectibles.

Approx. 12-16 hrs. per week.

Our Services Include: available on an equal opportunity Please call 630-530-4808. basis. To complain of discrimina• Mulch and Decorative Stones • Retaining Walls tion call HUD toll-free at 1-900• Weekly Mowing • Planting-Flowers, Bushes, Trees The toll-free tele phone 669-9777. number for the hearing impaired • Spring and Fall Cleanups • Snow Plowing 1-800-927-9275.

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where Your Father sees it, Oh, Holy Mary, Mother of God, Queen of Heaven and Earth!pubI then in His merciful eyes DISCLAIMER NOTICE This beseech you from the acit will become in His eyes, doeshumbly lication not knowingly bottom of my heart to answer me Your prayer, not cept mine. Amen. fraudulent deceptive adin this or necessity.

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One way we can help each other get through these challenging times is to keep our dollars local. Here are three good reasons.

Reason #1: Shopping locally saves you gas and wear and tear on your vehicle.

Reason #2: When you spend your money locally, you support the businesses whose property taxes pay for our municipal services.

Reason #3: Many of our youth programs are supported and sponsored by local businesses and if we don’t support them, they can’t support our kids.

BROUGHT TO YOU BY:

Rock V alley Publishing LLC

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14 • Thursday, Jan. 14, 2021 - Rock Valley Publishing

With high school sports still on hold, IHSA admits that some seasons are in jeopardy IHSA, IDPH don’t agree on safety standards; winter seasons were supposed to start in November the association’s board of directors planned to do everything in its power to provide a season for every IHSA sport during the current school year.

Anderson added last month that there had been no cancellations of any sports, and no discussions of canceling any sports.

Last week’s update from the IHSA, however, noted the reality of the narrow timeline for holding 2020-21 seasons in multiple sports— including winter sports—which were supposed to begin with the first practices in mid-November 2020 (the first games/competitive events were supposed to start on Nov. 30) and continue until Feb. 13, 2021.

In the summer of 2020, the IHSA announced its schedules for truncat-

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ed sports seasons during the 2020-21 school year. The school year included a newly created summer season for several sports, including baseball, softball, girls soccer and boys volleyball. Athletes in those four sports— typically held in the spring—had their entire 2020 seasons canceled because of the pandemic. The summer season is supposed to allow practices to start on April 19; games can begin on May 3, with the season running through June 26.

Three sports usually held during the fall—football, boys soccer and girls volleyball—have been moved to the spring season during the current school year. Practices for those seasons are scheduled to begin in about one month—on Feb. 15—with 388305

STAFF REPORT It’s been 10 months since the area’s high school boys and girls basketball teams have played competitive games on the court. The 202021 high school seasons for boys and girls basketball were supposed to have started in November, but all high school winter sports in Illinois have been sidelined since that time because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Illinois High School Association (IHSA), which oversees high school sports in the state, admitted last week that the window is closing on the opportunity for some sports, including basketball, to conduct a season during the current school year.

On Dec. 14, IHSA Executive Director Craig Anderson stated that

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games starting on March 5, and the season continuing through May 1.

Given that the winter seasons haven’t even started, it’s difficult to foresee how and when they would begin, how long they would run, and how they could affect the start of the spring seasons.

Additionally, several of the winter, spring and summer sports, including boys and girls basketball, football and wrestling (which has been moved from the winter to the spring for the current school year), have been deemed as high-risk sports by the IDPH. The IHSA issued an update last week stating it believes it can safely conduct high school sports. The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH), however, did not agree with that assessment as of last week. As the IHSA noted in its update of Jan. 7, all IHSA sports remain on pause.

Low-risk sports may not begin until the state returns to Phase 4 in the All Sports Policy.

On Wednesday, Jan. 6, Anderson joined members of the IHSA staff and representatives of the Illinois Elementary School Association (IESA) to meet virtually with IDPH Director Dr. Ngozi Ezike, Deputy Gov. Jesse Ruiz and IDPH Chief of Staff Justin DeWitt.

“We appreciate the dialogue with state leadership and believe it is crucial that it continue moving forward,” stated Anderson after the meeting. “We understand that the state faces shifting priorities as it continues to fight the pandemic, while also beginning the distribution of the vaccine. There was no expectation that a single meeting would resolve all our questions. However, we believe that collaboration with state officials is vital for the IHSA to be able to develop an informed plan for the 300,000-plus student-athletes and over 800 high schools that encompass the association.”

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by the IHSA, the leadership from the IHSA and IESA used the meeting to reintroduce recommended mitigations from the IHSA Sports Medicine Advisory Committee (SMAC), as well as to seek understanding on any preliminary insight the IDPH may have regarding the return of interscholastic sports. The IHSA also asked IDPH leaders to review the risk levels of all remaining sports, with consideration for lowering some sports from their current risk levels.

“We believe that there is both data and science that validates the idea that we can safely conduct sports,” said Anderson. “We have seen it work in other states and believe it can in Illinois if we utilize the mitigations provided by IDPH and the IHSA SMAC. Students are already leaving or participating out-of-state on weekends. We believe that competing for their high school remains the safest venue for participation.”

Anderson concluded his Jan. 7 update by noting the narrow timeline for conducting sports seasons in several sports during the remainder of the 2020-21 school year. Anderson’s statement appeared to criticize the IDPH for not providing any detailed parameters for athletes returning to competition.

“Our board of directors is going to have difficult decisions to make regarding the seasons’ for mediumand high-risk sports very soon,” said Anderson. “With no specific IDPH timeline or statistical benchmarks established for the return of sports and the calendar shrinking, putting together a puzzle that allows for all sports to be played becomes increasingly improbable. We continue to urge all residents of our state to be diligent in their efforts to adhere to safety guidelines, as a lower positivity rate remains the key to athletics returning.”

The IHSA Board of Directors held another meeting earlier this week, on Jan. 13.

Rock Valley Publishing - Thursday,Jan. 14, 2021 • 15

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16 • Thursday, Jan. 14, 2021 - Rock Valley Publishing

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