VPR011923

The Village of Villa Park observed Arbor Day with a tree planting on Friday, April 30.

to right) at

Memorial Day in Villa Park

planting at the village’s Franklin Park, located at 218 N. Third Ave., are: Villa Park Village Trustee Christine Murphy, Justin Shlensky—chair of the Villa Park Environmental Concerns Commission, Margaret Schiefer—a member of the Villa Park Environmental Concerns Commission, Villa Park Village Trustee Cheryl Tucker, Villa Park Village President Albert Bulthuis, Villa Park Village Trustee (and Village President-Elect) Nick Cuzzone and Leslie Allison-Seei—chair of the Villa Park Community Pride Commission. Arbor Day is observed on the last Friday of each April. The National Arbor Day Foundation has recognized Villa Park with Tree City USA designation for 36 straight years. To receive that recognition, a community must have a tree board or department, a tree-care ordinance, a comprehensive community forestry program and an Arbor Day observance.

A first-place performance

Senior Sarah Ball of the Willowbrook girls gymnastics team is pictured while approaching the vault during the Warriors’ home meet against Addison Trail on Jan. 12. Ball delivered a first-place effort on the vault, receiving a score of 9.4. She finished in a first-place tie on the balance beam and placed second in floor exercises. Ball placed fifth on the uneven bars and finished second to Willowbrook sophomore Naomi Campbell in the all-around standings. Willowbrook defeated Addison Trail 133.95 to 125.05. For more about the meet, see page 3.

judge sets trial date for State Sen. Tom

Villa Park Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Post 2801 held its Memorial Day service on Monday morning at Cortesi Veterans Memorial Park. Post Commander Jim Blankshain is pictured bowing his head as Willowbrook High School students Lily Hendrickson and Anna Seelbach sound taps at the end of the ceremony. The post’s 2020 Memorial Day event was canceled because of the COVID-19 pandemic. This year’s observance included a reading of the names of the Post 2801 members who have recently died. That list included World War II veteran Charles “Sid” Bergh, who served as the master of ceremonies of the post’s annual Memorial Day service for several years. A veteran of the U.S. Navy, Bergh died in October 2020. He was 94 years old. Bergh was the post’s last surviving World War II veteran.

CHRIS

January 9, 2023

Dear Appreciated Client, AS MOST OF SMALL BUSINESSESS we have all gone through a tumultuous time. However we weathered the storm and we celebrate our 100 year anniversary! Having said that, many people have all seen items that are in need of some tender love and care, refinishing, reupholstery, or restoration after extensive wear and tear! Since our lease with the new building owners is up this summer and Richard has fully recovered from a recent surgery, we now have a new and more thankful outlook on life!

If you have been waiting to have your furniture or beloved heirloom restored or refinished or reupholstered this could be your best opportunity. Richard is doing well and thanks everyone for their thoughts and prayers and he is back at the ready as always! As we all know nothing can keep him down.

As our sign of gratitude, we are offering our great customers a private sale on our in stock furniture and inventory including our accessories, lamps & Capodimonte giftware. We are also offering a buy two get one free opportunity on our Capodimonte lamps, giftware and centerpieces. OR if you purchase a bedroom set, we will include a dining room set at “no charge” while supplies last. Since we have a large selection of dining room sets we are also offering a BUY ONE GET ON FREE!!

Sale begins January 13th through February 13th Sincerely yours, Richard, Kathryn, Joe (Giuseppe), Antonio, Benito, & Mark THE MONTALBANO FAMILY

Visit http://montalbanofurniture.com to see all that we offer.

mark@montalbanofurniture.com Factory & Main Showroom open Monday to Friday from 9:30am to 3:30pm, Sat. by appointment only

Willowbrook Warriors beat Blazers

Campbell

wins on the uneven bars and claims all-around title; Ball wins vault and ties for first on beam

STAFF REPORT

Willowbrook and Addison Trail squared off in last week’s girls gymnastics meet in Villa Park. The Warriors earned a victory in the dual meet, outscoring the visiting Blazers 133.95 to 125.05.

Willowbrook sophomore Naomi Campbell finished first in the meet’s all-around standings with her total of 35.05. Campbell won the championship on the uneven bars with her score of 8.9. She posted a second-place score of 9.3 on the vault. Campbell delivered fourth-place scores on the balance beam (8.5) and in floor exercises (8.35).

Senior Sarah Ball of the Warriors placed second in the all-around competition with her score of 34.3. Ball turned in a first-place score of 9.4 on the vault.

She tied for first on the balance beam (8.8) and finished second in floor exercises (8.75). Ball posted a fifth-place finish on the uneven bars (7.35).

Willowbrook junior Mia McBride finished third in the allaround scoring with her total of 33.15. McBride placed second on the uneven bars (8.1). She delivered a third-place score of 8.5 in floor exercises and took fifth on the vault (8.7).

Senior Molly Morris of the Warriors placed sixth in the all-around standings with her total of 30.80. Morris tied for third on the vault (8.75) and placed sixth in floor exercises (7.55).

Senior Hanna Mitrick of Willowbrook posted a seventh-place finish in the all-around competition. Mitrick’s all-around score of 30.65 included a fifth-place score of 8.2 on the balance beam and a sixth-place score of 8.65 on the vault.

Addison Trail senior Maddie Muccianti delivered a first-place effort in floor exercises; her routine received a score of 9.0. Muccianti finished third on the balance beam (8.6) and fourth on the uneven bars (7.8).

Junior Nicolette Franczak of the Blazers tied for first on the balance beam (8.8). Franczak tied for third on the vault (8.75) and placed third on the uneven bars (8.05).

Franczak tied for seventh in floor exercises (7.25). She placed fourth in the all-around standings with her total of 32.85.

Addison Trail sophomore Olivia DeBeau claimed fifth in the all-around scoring with her total of 30.9.

DeBeau placed fifth in floor exercises (7.6) and sixth on the balance beam (8.1).

WE’RE LOVEN THE OVEN

“we have seen amazing things today”

Luke 5:26

God is good, so so good!

2022 dealt a lot of us some serious set backs and sad times, myself included. But, look at all the goodness that accompanied it! We can’t forget it, I’ll never forget it. We have seen amazing things this year! In a time where there is so much toxicity and turmoil surrounding us, I am blown away by the kindness and generosity generated by this community and some of the neighboring communities around us. I had heard of go fund me, even gave to a few of them, but knew nothing about them really. Certainly never thought for a second that I would be on the receiving end of one and it still overwhelms me. Because of so many peoples’ crazy selflessness I was able to replace that oven a lot quicker than was ever anticipated. I was able to use the balance to absorb the high increase for the cost of goods without passing it on to you. While I don’t know how long that will last, I feel blessed it was possible because of you. Your goodness did not stop there, you continued to spread it throughout the year. Many of our local businesses, old and new, have been kept thriving because of the sacrifices you make to support us. In our community alone, the two holiday food drives hosted by Villa Park Office Equipment and GM Smith & Son Realtors I believe had record breaking success in donations to help stock our local food pantries. And let’s not forget our local motorcycle enthusiast who partook in a freezing December parade ride to support Toys for Tots. Who does this? At a time when so many are struggling themselves, who does this? You do! You, this community does. Our faith is so often tested. I know mine has been tested and tested and retested this past year. You have helped me stay focused in my faith in some very trying times. I will forever be greatful to you. I will continue to thank God for the amazing people he has brought into my life by having a business in this community, and shouldered by the awesome communities around us. And I will forever be so, so proud of all of you who do so many good things. Thank you, thank you, thank you! Thank you for everything! I encourage you to stay the course with all of your good deeds. Give to someone if you can. Call someone you haven’t spoken to. Hold a door, shovel a walk, share a kind word or a great big smile. Do it all if you can! Do for each other what you have done for me and spread your goodness everywhere you can. Thank you again, for the oven, for your patronage, for your kindness, for everything! Thank you for you! I pray you all have an amazing and blessed 2023!

CAPTAIN PERCY DARVILLE - Winner of the Prestigious

2007 Cacique

Master Fisherman

Willowbrook’s girls gymnastics team defeated Addison Trail in last week’s dual meet between District 88 rivals in Villa Park. Senior Sarah Ball of the Warriors delivered a first-place score of 9.4 on the vault. Ball and Addison Trail junior Nicolette Franczak tied for first on the balance beam with their scores of 8.8. Ball, who is pictured above during her beam routine, placed second in the meet’s all-around standings. Sophomore Naomi Campbell (below) of Willowbrook won the meet’s all-around title with her total score of 35.05. Campbell, who is also pictured below on the balance beam, earned a first-place score of 8.9 on the uneven bars. She posted a second-place score of 9.3 on the vault and delivered fourth-place efforts on the balance beam and in floor exercises. Also pictured (above right) is senior Hanna Mitrick of the Warriors. Mitrick is shown during her fifth-place performance on the balance beam. Her routine on the beam received a score of 8.2.

Villa Park reView

Your Hometown Newspaper

240 N. West Avenue

Elmhurst, IL. 60126

Main Phone 630.834-8244 Fax 630.834-0900

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

Display Advertising: 630.834-8355

Classified Advertising: 630.834-8244 News: 630.834-8244 General Information: 630.834-8244

E-mail:

Advertising Department: ads1@rvpublishing.com News Department: CFox@rvpublishing.com

Classified Department: Classifieds@rvpublishing.com

Administration:

Chris Fox News Coordinator

Debra Hamilton Advertising Director Pete Cruger Publisher

Advertising:

Brenda Garcia Kate McCarty

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.

Requests should be directed to Independent@rvpublishing.com or 630.834-8244.

Postmaster: Please send address changes to:

THE VILLA PARK REVIEW

240 N. West Avenue, Elmhurst, IL. 60126

Office Hours: Monday-Friday 11am-3pm

Metra begins rollout of train-tracking website

On Jan. 10, Metra started the rollout of metratracker.com, a new real-time train-tracking website that lets customers see precisely where their trains are and when they will reach their stations. The new site, made possible by a wholesale replacement of Metra’s current train tracking system, also makes it easier than ever to view schedules and plan a trip on Metra.

“This new train tracking system is

Obituary

DONALD JOSEPH PALM, 88

Donald Joseph Palm, known to some as “Don” and to others as “Whiz,” passed away quietly at home in Winona Lake in the early hours of Wednesday, Jan. 11, 2023.

He was 88 years old.

Born in Chicago, IL on March 16, 1934, Don was the son of Robert J. Palm and Anne (Jansen) Palm. He spent his formative years there, graduating from Lane Technical High School in 1952 and later furthered his education with IBEW Local 134.

Professionally, Don spent more than 44 years working with the Divane Brothers Electricians - a tenure which is rare to find in building and construction trades. Don was loyal, hardworking and said what was on his mind. He was also a 70-year member of IBEW, a Fourth-Degree member of the Knights of Columbus and an avid fisherman. He enjoyed working on cars and could fix seemingly anything. He was independent, sometimes bull-headed and loved his family fiercely.

United in marriage to Judith Ann Balfanz on Nov. 27, 1954, Don and Judy spent more than 68 years together before his passing; she survives at home.

Also surviving with memories to cherish are four children: Donald (Janine) Palm of Aurora, IL, Glenn (Teresa) Palm of North Webster, Robert (Kathy) Palm of Villa Park, IL and Loretta (Robert) Paaren of St. Peters, Mo.; 11 grandchildren; 15 great-grandchildren; 4 great-great-grandchildren; eight siblings: Doe (Johnny) Bazan, Marge Morrisey, Bob (Linda) Palm, Helen Pearson, Jim (Sharon) Palm, Anne (Gayle) Gilley, Patricia Morrison, Cathy Palm; his sister-in-law Sue Palm; and many, many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Anne; brother, Michael Palm, sister Mary Deja, and four brother in-laws, Glenn Balfanz, Larry Deja, Bob Morrisey and Tom Morrison.

Special thanks to the Kosciusko Hospice Team.

In lieu of flowers, Memorials can be made to Sacred Heart Catholic Church, 125 N. Harrison, Warsaw IN 46580.

Titus Funeral Home and Cremation Services is entrusted with Don’s care. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, 125 North Harrison, Warsaw on Friday, Jan. 20, 2023 at 12:30 p.m. Visitors may gather beginning at 11 a.m. with Rosary Service beginning at Noon. Final entombment will be at Oakwood Cemetery, Warsaw.

a major upgrade and will be a dramatic improvement in our communications to My Metra customers,” said Metra CEO/Executive Director Jim Derwinski. “It enables us to do a better job of tracking trains and conveying timely, accurate information, and also includes a variety of interactive new features.”

The metratracker.com site, which can be reached directly through that web address or through metra.com, features three grey bars on the menu that provide the site’s main functions:

• Station Times – This option allows customers to check for train departure times from their selected station. When they pick this option, they will be asked to select the line they use and their origination and destination stations. Once they’ve made their selections and click “Continue,” the next page will show all trains scheduled to make that trip in the next two hours, with the train

numbers and predicted or scheduled departure times.

• Real-Time Map – This interactive map allows customers to see the location of trains along the line or lines that they select, so they can see exactly where their train is and how soon it will reach their station. Customers can click on stations or trains on the map to see real-time information about trains and schedules.

• Trip Planner – This option allows customers to plan a trip using Metra and other modes of travel between addresses or locations that they select.

They can request the “Best Route,” “Fewer Transfers,” or “Less Walking” and choose “Leave Now” or enter their preferred departure or arrival time.

The new $26.7 million train tracking system from Clever Devices of Woodbury, N. Y., required the installation of new GPS tracking devices

and other network equipment on more than 1,000 railcars and in 238 stations. The new train tracking system is fully operational on the Metra Electric, Rock Island, Heritage Corridor, North Central Service, Milwaukee District North, and Milwaukee District West lines; equipment is still being installed on Union Pacific, SWS and BNSF trains and tracking on those lines will increase as the rollout is completed this year.

The system has other features that will improve communications. For instance, workers in the Train Reporting and Customer Communications Center (the facility responsible for customer communications) can send texts to trains and platforms that will instantly be turned into audio announcements and displayed on platform signs. On platforms, the system will more accurately announce the arrival of the next train or announce that the next train is running express.

Kuppie’s Bakery to host thank-you celebration this Sunday at VFW Post 2801

Kuppie’s Bakery would like to invite its “lovin’ the oven supporters” to a thank-you bash.

The celebration will be held at VFW Post 2801, 39 E. St Charles Road, from noon-3 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 22.

The bakery will be providing some

treats and sweets with coffee and juice for the kids. There will be a cash bar for anyone wanting to watch some football. “I encourage you to support our local VFW here if you can,” said Kuppie’s Bakery owner Dawn Hanrahan. “They do some great things for this

community, many times behind the scenes and unbeknownst to us.”

Kuppie’s also will have face painting and balloon art for the kids from 12:30-2:30 p.m. “We hope you can stop in for a bit, have a treat, and say hello,” said Hanrahan.

Post 2801 presents district awards

Villa Park Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Post 2801 and its auxiliary hosted a banquet on Jan. 7 to honor the 19th District’s winners in the 2022-23 Voice of Democracy competition. The competition was open to high school students. Contestants wrote an essay responding to the 2022-23 theme question: “Why is the Veteran Important?” In addition to writing their response to that question, contestants made an audio recording (3 to 5 minutes) of their essay. The banquet honored the competition’s post-level winners from 13 area posts (including Post 2801) in District 19. Five of those 13 winners received top-five recognition in the district level. Julia Surzykiewicz, a sophomore at Lake Park High School, was Addison V.F.W. Post 7446 and its auxiliary’s winner in the Voice of Democracy competition. She received District 19’s fourth-place award, and a check for $200, at the banquet in Villa Park. Surzykiewicz (right) is pictured with District 19 senior vice commander Laurie Emmer (left) and Meggan Denny (center), the senior vice president of the District 19 auxiliary. Andrew Kula, a senior at Lemont High School, received District 19’s first-place award in the Voice of Democracy competition during the recent banquet. Kula advanced to the district level after winning Lemont VFW Post 5819’s contest. Kula won a flag set and $500 for winning the district competition, and he advanced to the Voice of Democracy’s upcoming state contest in Springfield. The winner at the state level will move on to the national competition in Washington, D.C.

CHRIS FOX PHOTO Rock Valley Publishing

Viewpoint

Under my father’s fedora TCU beats Michigan - Riff Ram!

My mother went to TCU and the Riff Ram cheer may have been my first words as a baby. Not only did they have a 13-1 season, they made it to the national championship game for the first time since 1938, which sadly, they lost to Georgia. However, the previous game against Michigan was unbelievable.

Three times Michigan was right at the goal line and each time, TCU held them off from scoring. It was a great game, especially after watching the woeful Bears all season. TCU not only threw outstanding passes but also caught them! And often ran them in for a touchdown. (Bears, are you listening??)

Found out some interesting things about TCU by reading my mother’s yearbook. If you think football isn’t or wasn’t a big deal at TCU, the yearbook says it all. There was a page devoted to archery, to intramurals, to tennis, to golf; track got three pages, as did Basket Ball – yes, in 1941, Basket Ball was two words. But football?

There’s a full page in the yearbook for every game! The score at the top, a photo of field action, a short story about the game and, toward the bottom, three or four outstanding players are featured.

Yes, football is kind of a big deal at TCU. Riff Ram Bah-Zoo!

EAM extends Hookham exhibit and my painting is there!

If you haven’t been to the Elmhurst Art Museum lately, the Eleanor King Hookham exhibition has been extended through Monday, Feb. 13. Stop by because one of the artworks lent to the exhibit is a painting that normally hangs in my living room! (The Sentrock exhibit is also extended through Sunday, Feb. 12.) A long-time resident of Elmhurst, Hookham taught art classes here, when she

By DEE LONGFELLOW Editor

wasn’t traveling around the world exhibiting her works. She was the driving force behind the EAM, which just celebrated its 25th year.

Bob Smith is coming back

Our friend, author, attorney and “hockey dad” Bob Smith is back – he has retired over 20 years as a criminal defense attorney at 26th and Cal.

He wrote stories about York hockey, as well as track and XC, when his twin sons Andrew and Brendon participated.

Bob had written a handful of books at that time, one called The Sakhalin Collection, and has since written another book called Running With Cannibals, about the Philippine-American War (18991902). That book was a finalist in the Adventure – War & Military category of the 2022 American Fiction Awards.

Bob has yet another title coming out quite literally right now – this week -- and a story about it is planned when it officially hits bookstores. Meanwhile, he might be writing a couple of feature stories for the Independent. Stay tuned.

And about the haps in Washington

Just a thought about all the hubbub in Washington, DC – now that classified documents have been found at an office belonging to President Biden, it would be interesting if he took the high road and resigned and handed the gavel to Kamala Harris. Hmmm.

Blair-Sherlock takes oath, begins term with focus on families

State Rep. Diane Blair-Sherlock, D-Villa Park, issued the following statement Wednesday after being sworn in for her first full term:

“As we begin a new General Assembly, families are looking toward Springfield to deliver real results that support reproductive freedoms, target gun violence and address economic concerns.

“Many residents are still hurting from the pandemic, and it’s important that we strengthen critical state services that help people get back on their feet. Responsible, balanced budgets in recent years have enabled Illinois to receive needed credit up-

grades and have eliminated bad debt. We must maintain this good stewardship, and properly utilize the financial flexibility it can offer.

“It’s key that we prioritize funding for our classrooms, job training programs and local infrastructure in order to attract high-paying jobs. We must also take a comprehensive approach toward public safety that supports violence intervention programs and our local law enforcement who work hard every day to make our communities safer.

“In a post-Dobbs environment, we must recognize that states are the last line of defense when it comes to re-

productive freedoms. Illinois has become the Midwest’s leader in reproductive health, and I will do all that I can to protect the essential health care rights that patients and providers deserve.

“I am thankful and appreciative that the residents of the 46th District have placed their trust in me. There will be challenges, but together we can do a lot of great things for the families who call our community home.”

(Editor’s note:

Sadly, it is hard to disagree with Jim Nowlan’s judgment that the Republican Party is “irrelevant in Illinois politics” (“Republican Party in Illinois Is Irrelevant, and That’s Not Healthy,” Independent, Viewpoint, Dec. 29, 2022 issue). Illinois, like every state and the country as a whole, needs a well-functioning two-party system.

As a remedy, Nowlan recommends a Republican challenge to gerrymandered 2020 redistricting maps and creation of a “coherent” GOP platform, to be authored by younger Republicans.

Whether and how much these ef -

forts could actually succeed is an open question, although the need for a constructive Republican platform is undeniable.

I believe no rebuilding attempt can succeed, however, unless the party honestly faces the degradation of its culture. In much of Illinois, today’s GOP and its culture are controlled by those who subscribe to unsubstantiated conspiracy theories, believe that elections have been “stolen,” and/or are convinced that teachers and school librarians “indoctrinate” students in matters of race, sexuality, and gender identity.

Unless the Illinois GOP can address this addiction to misguided beliefs and distortions, and sometimes to the bullying of opponents or supposed culprits, other reforms will not heal what ails the party.

Of course, many Republicans do not want their party to be defined by the culture warriors. They should join Nowlan in the struggle to find a cure and take their party back. In the meantime, extremist views and actions have captured the Republican brand.

And that is regrettable.

David McCurdy

This was received from the office of State Rep. Diane Blair-Sherlock.)

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.

Addison

Editor’s note: There were no reports submitted by the Addison Police Department last week.

Villa Park

Jan. 6

Eduardo Martinez-Olivares, 48, of Villa Park, was charged with DUI, disobeying a stop sign and no insurance near W. Division and N. Har-

vard at 10:07 p.m.

Police said Jamill D. Scott, 30, of Chicago, was arrested on an original complaint and warrant for possession of an altered credit card/attempted use of a counterfeited credit card and resisting or obstructing a police officer for an alleged incident that occurred April 25, 2017.

Jan. 5

Retail theft was reported at a store in the 1-100 block of S. Villa at 11:36 a.m. A complainant reported an unknown suspect removed records from a display shelf and left the store without paying.

Jan. 4

Police said Edward W. Plocinski, 44, of Villa Park, was was arrested on two failure to appear warrants out of DuPage County in the 400 block of

W. Holly at 10:52 a.m.

Sebastian D. Vilchis, 20, of Chicago, was charged with unlawful possession of cannabis by a driver, driving while license suspended, improper lighting/head lights or tail lights and no insurance near Roosevelt and Route 83 at 2:09 a.m.

Police said a 16-year-old male juvenile was arrested on a warrant out of DuPage County. The juvenile was charged and transported to a youth home.

Jan. 3

Police said James M. Rogers, 35, of Lombard, was arrested on three failure to appear warrants out of DuPage County near N. Wisconsin and W. St. Charles at 12:23 a.m. Rogers also was issued citations for driving while license suspended and improper lighting.

Retail theft was reported at a store in the 1-100 block of E. North at 12:37 p.m. A complainant reported that a suspect removed a vacuum from the display shelf and left the store without paying.

Vehicle theft was reported at a gas station in the 300 block of W. St. Charles at 10:56 p.m. A complainant reported that an unknown suspect removed a vehicle that was left running and unsecured in the parking lot.

Jan. 1

A complainant in the 200 block of S. Villa reported at 3:25 a.m. they located shell casings in the parking lot.

A complainant at a restaurant in the 300 block of W. Kenilworth reported a suspect battered them at 9:31 p.m.

Fraud, identity theft

According to information provided last week by the Villa Park Police Department, police reported four incidents of residents being a victim of fraud or identity theft.

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 11, 2:57 a.m. in the 800 block of Grand, a business reported a large amount of money missing from the business account. The funds were used to pay personal credit card debts. The incident is under investigation. BEPC2300033

Jan 11, 8:53 p.m. near Irving and Church, Daniel Granados, 30, of Bensenville, was discovered passed out behind wheel at intersection, according to police. Police said he was found to have a suspended driver’s license and determined to be driving under the influence. He was charged with DUI and other traffic charges, issued citations, a court date and released. BEPC2300036

Jan. 10, 11:17 a.m. in the 200 block of George Street, a complainant reports that a fraudulent account was opened in his name. The incident is under investigation. BEPC2300030

Jan. 10, 11:47 a.m. near Route 83 and Thorndale, a victim states he was removed from his tractor trailer and was beaten in the head and arm by unknown suspect. The incident is under investigation. BEPC2300031

Jan. 10, 4:04 p.m. in the 900 block of Irving Park Road, a victim reports that catalytic converter was removed from the car by an unknown suspect(s). The incident is under investigation. BEPC2300032

Jan. 10, 9:59 p.m. in the 800 block of E. Belmont, Bensenville police officers assisted Elmhurst officers serve an arrest warrant and take into custody wanted person. BEP23000406 (See story on pg. 1 of this issue.)

Jan. 8, 9:35 p.m. near York and Thorndale, Nelson Cifuentes-Lopez, 25, of Bensenville, was stopped and found to be driving under the influence. He was transported the police station for processing, issued citations, a court date and released. BEPC2300023

Jan 6, 9:30 a.m. in the 770 block of John Street, a complainant reports that a white pit bull ran out and bit him in the shin. The complainant refused medical attention. The owner was issued two citations and a court date for having a dog at-large and for

having no rabies tag. Du Page Animal Control was notified of the incident. BEPC2300018

Jan. 6, 12:46 p.m. in the 1000 block of York Road, a driver reported that another driver waved a silver handgun at him. The area was searched by officers without result. The victim did not wish to sign complaints. BEPC2300019

Jan. 6, 3:17 p.m. in the 1200 block of Elmhurst Street, a victim reported that someone fraudulently opened a Verizon account with their information. The incident is under investigation. BEPC2300020

Jan. 6, 7:15 p.m. in the 100 block of Gerry Steven Court, an employer reports an employee theft. The incident is under investigation. BEPC230002

Jan 5, 9:45 a.m. in the 100 block of George Street, a victim reported that three reportedly rare Pokemon cards were stolen in an interstate trade. The incident is under investigation. BEPC2300015

Indiana man accused of beating girlfriend leads police on high-speed chase Two police vehicles struck during incident

DuPage County

State’s Attorney Robert B. Berlin and West Chicago Chief of Police

Colin Fleury have announced that bond has been set for a Merrillville, Ind. man accused of beating his girlfriend with a belt for hours and leading police on a high-speed chase.

Reginald Hubbert, 40, appeared at a bond hearing this morning where Judge Mia McPherson set bond at $200,000 with 10 percent to apply.

Hubbert has been charged with two counts of Class 4 felony domestic battery and two counts of aggravated fleeing and eluding, a Class 4 felony.

On Jan. 11 at approximately 10:55 a.m., the West Chicago Police Department received a call from a woman at the Speedway gas station on the corner of Roosevelt Road and Washington Street claiming she was the victim of domestic violence by her boyfriend, Reginald Hubbert. Following an investigation in the matter, it is alleged that the victim was at her home with Hubbert when a verbal altercation began. It is alleged that the altercation became physical and that Hubbert hit the woman approximately 100 times with a belt over the course of several hours and would not allow the victim to leave the home.

It is alleged that the victim ultimately was able to call authorities from a gas station. Officers with the

Reginald Hubbert

Two Warriors claim individual berths in this week’s boys bowling sectional

A pair of Willowbrook bowlers earned individual berths in the upcoming IC Catholic Prep Sectional with their performances during Saturday’s Naperville Central Regional at Lisle Lanes.

Seniors Henry Jarrett and Dylan Primdahl secured berths in this

week’s IHSA boys sectional by finishing among the regional’s top 10 individuals who weren’t members of sectional-qualifying teams. The top four teams at the regional in Lisle advanced to the sectional.

Jarrett rolled a six-game series of 1,196 at the regional, while Primdahl fired a six-game total of 1,163. Wil-

lowbrook did not compete as a team at the regional. Jarrett and Primdahl were the only two Warriors who competed in the event.

Jarrett finished 11th among all individuals at the regional. He placed third among the group of 10 bowlers who advanced to the sectional as individuals. Primdahl placed 16th in the

Warriors suffer narrow loss to Plainfield North Tigers rally to beat Willowbrook 50-47

STAFF REPORT

The Willowbrook girls basketball team’s overall season record fell to 10-9 following Saturday’s 50-47 loss to Plainfield North at the Coach Kipp’s Hoopsfest event at Montini Catholic High School in Lombard.

Playing their first game in seven days, the Warriors took an 11-10 lead through one quarter of their game against Plainfield North. The Warriors led the Tigers 22-19 at halftime and 37-33 at the end of the third quarter.

Willowbrook’s lead stood at 41-35 with 6:30 left in the game, but the Tigers made two quick 3-pointers to tie the score at 41-41 with 6:05 to play.

Plainfield North, which made three 3-point shots during the fourth quarter, held a 49-47 lead in the game’s closing seconds. The Tigers took the two-point lead after making a pair of free throws with 47.5 seconds on the clock.

Willowbrook missed an inside shot with a few seconds to play. The Tigers grabbed the rebound, and the Warriors committed a foul with three-tenths of a second on the clock. Plainfield North then made one of two free throws. The Tigers deflected Willowbrook’s ensuing inbounds pass to prevent the Warriors from trying a desperation 3-point shot at the buzzer.

Senior Rimon Kari, who made a pair of 3-point baskets in the first quarter, scored a team-leading 13 points for Willowbrook. Junior Elle Bruschuk scored 12 points and pulled down 13 rebounds. She also handed out five assists in the game, which

was one of eight contests played at the Coach Kipp’s Hoopsfest event at Montini on Saturday.

Senior Sara Stout provided 12 points and eight rebounds for the

Warriors. Seniors Nina Nytko and Yazmin Setaram scored five points each. Nytko’s driving basket gave Willowbrook its final lead of the game—a 47-46 advantage with 1:55 remaining. Less than 20 seconds later, the Tigers made one free throw to even the score at 47-47.

Willowbrook’s season continues with three home games this week. The Warriors will play West Suburban Gold Conference contests against Addison Trail and Hinsdale South, along with a non-conference game against York. Willowbrook began the week with a conference record of 5-2.

The Warriors opened their conference season with overtime losses to both of this week’s West Suburban Gold opponents. Willowbrook lost 60-53 in overtime at Hinsdale South on Nov. 29. The Warriors dropped a 46-44 overtime decision at Addison Trail on Dec. 3. Since losing to the Blazers, the Warriors have reeled off five straight conference wins.

regional’s individual standings. He was sixth in the group of individuals who moved on to the sectional.

Jarrett turned in his best game of the regional in his third game, when he rolled a 233. Primdahl delivered his best score of the event when he bowled a 217 in his first game.

The IC Catholic Prep Sectional

takes place this Saturday at Bowlero in Glendale Heights. The sectional’s competitors will try to earn berths in the IHSA boys state meet, which will be contested Jan. 27-28 in O’Fallon.

The sectional’s top seven individuals who aren’t members of state-qualifying teams will advance to the state meet.

Willowbrook’s girls basketball team lost 50-47 to Plainfield North in Saturday afternoon’s game at the Coach Kipp’s Hoopsfest event at Montini Catholic High School in Lombard. The loss to the Tigers sent the Warriors’ overall season record to 10-9. Senior Rimon Kari (No. 30 - above) scored a team-leading 13 points for Willowbrook. Senior Sara Stout (No. 15 - top left) and junior Elle Bruschuk (No. 33 - left) scored 12 points each for the Warriors. Willowbrook’s schedule this week features home games against Addison Trail, York and Hinsdale South.

Willowbrook’s boys basketball team fell to 4-12 overall and 0-4 in the West Suburban Gold Conference following Friday’s 77-69 loss to Proviso East in Villa Park. Senior Noah Campbell (No. 25 - below) scored a team-high 28 points for the Warriors. Campbell made four 3-point shots and sank all four of his free-throw attempts. He scored 13 of his team’s 16 first-quarter points and provided nine of the Warriors’ 11 fourth-quarter points. Senior Jaylin Brown (No. 20 - above) supplied seven points for Willowbrook.

Warriors fall to the Pirates Campbell piles up 28 points in Willowbrook’s loss

STAFF REPORT

The Willowbrook boys basketball team lost 77-69 to Proviso East in Friday night’s West Suburban Gold Conference game in Villa Park. The Warriors slipped to 4-12 overall and 0-4 in conference play.

Proviso East led Willowbrook 24-16 after one quarter and 45-35 at halftime. The Pirates maintained a 69-58 advantage at the end of the third quarter.

Proviso East led the Warriors 70-58 with less than seven minutes to play. Willowbrook senior Noah Campbell drained a 3-point shot— his fourth 3-pointer of the game—to cut the Pirates’ lead to 70-61 with six minutes remaining. About 20 seconds later, Campbell’s driving layup trimmed the Pirates’ lead to 70-63.

Senior Isaac Sobieszczyk delivered an inside basket for the Warriors to reduce Proviso East’s lead to 7265 with about 4:50 to play. Another driving basket from Campbell cut Proviso East’s lead to 72-67 with about four minutes left in the game.

Campbell went to the free-throw line and made both attempts to drop the Pirates’ lead to 72-69 with 2:40 remaining.

Proviso East closed the game with a 5-0 run.

to Proviso East

Campbell poured in a team-leading 28 points for the Warriors in Friday’s loss. Campbell made three 3-point baskets in the first quarter. He scored 13 of his team’s 16 first-quar-

CHRIS FOX PHOTOS Rock Valley Publishing

CHRIS FOX PHOTOS Rock Valley Publishing

The Elmhurst Symphony is a nonprofit organization funded in part by the Illinois Arts Council, DuPage Community Foundation, Explore Elmhurst, and patrons like you Learn more: ElmhurstSymphony.org/Giving.

DuPage County sheriff: HB 5471 ‘a clear violation of the Second Amendment’

Editor’s note: The following statement was issued by DuPage County Sheriff James Mendrick on Jan. 13.

“As your sheriff, I wanted to give

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR THE 18TH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT DUPAGE COUNTY - WHEATON, ILLINOIS

RESIDENTIAL Lakeview Loan Servicing, LLC PLAINTIFF Vs. Monica J. Komperda; et. al. DEFENDANTS No. 2022FC000510

NOTICE OF SHERIFF’S SALE OF REAL ESTATE

PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above cause on 10/05/2022, James Mendrick, the Sheriff of DuPage County, Illinois will on February 14, 2023 at the hour of 10:00 AM at Dupage County Sheriff’s Office 501 North County Farm Road Wheaton, IL 60187, or in a place otherwise designated at the time of sale, County of DuPage and State of Illinois, sell at public auction to the highest bidder for cash, as set forth below, the following described real estate:

LOT 22 IN CALHOUN’S ADDITION TO VILLA PARK, BEING A SUBDIVISION IN THE NORTHWEST QUARTER OF SECTION 10, TOWNSHIP 39 NORTH, RANGE 11, EAST OF THE THIRD PRINCIPAL MERIDIAN, ACCORDING TO THE PLAT THEREOF RECORDED JUNE 17, 1910 AS DOCUMENT 100980, IN DUPAGE COUNTY, ILLINOIS. PIN 06-10-114-011

the citizens of DuPage County an update on the recent passage of HB 5471, also known as the Protect Illinois Communities Act.

“As your duly elected sheriff,

LEGAL NOTICES

Improved with Residential COMMONLY KNOWN AS: 208 S. Myrtle Avenue Villa Park, IL 60181

Sale terms: 10% down of the highest bid by certified funds at the close of the auction; The balance, including the Judicial sale fee for Abandoned Residential Property Municipality Relief Fund, which is calculated at the rate of $1 for each $1,000 or fraction thereof of the amount paid by the purchaser not to exceed $300, in certified funds, is due within twenty-four (24) hours. The subject property is subject to general real estate taxes, special assessments, or special taxes levied against said real estate and is offered for sale without any representation as to quality or quantity of title and without recourse to Plaintiff and in “AS IS” condition. The sale is further subject to confirmation by the court.

If the property is a condominium and the foreclosure takes place after 1/1/2007, purchasers other than the mortgagees will be required to pay any assessment and legal fees due under The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/9(g)(1) and (g)(4).

If the property is located in a common interest community, purchasers other than mortgagees will be required to pay any assessment and legal fees due under the Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/18.5(g-1).

If the sale is set aside for any reason, the Purchaser at the sale shall be entitled only to a return of the deposit paid. The Purchaser

my job and my office are sworn, in fact, to protect the citizens of DuPage County. This is a job and responsibility that I take with the utmost seriousness.

shall have no further recourse against the Mortgagor, the Mortgagee or the Mortgagee’s attorney.

Upon payment in full of the amount bid, the purchaser shall receive a Certificate of Sale, which will entitle the purchaser to a Deed to the real estate after Confirmation of the sale. The successful purchaser has the sole responsibility/expense of evicting any tenants or other individuals presently in possession of the subject premises.

The property will NOT be open for inspection and Plaintiff makes no representation as to the condition of the property. Prospective bidders are admonished to check the Court file to verify all information.

IF YOU ARE THE MORTGAGOR (HOMEOWNER), YOU HAVE THE RIGHT TO REMAIN IN POSSESSION FOR 30 DAYS AFTER ENTRY OF AN ORDER OF POSSESSION, IN ACCORDANCE WITH SECTION 15-1701(C) OF THE ILLINOIS MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE LAW.

For information: Examine the court file or contact Plaintiff’s attorney: Codilis & Associates, P.C., 15W030 North Frontage Road, Suite 100, Burr Ridge, IL 60527, (630) 794-9876. Please refer to file number 14-22-05262.

I3210076

(Published in the Addison Independent, Bensenville Independent & Villa Park Review Jan. 5, 12 & 19, 2023) 430788

“Part of my duties that I accepted upon being sworn into office was to protect the rights of all of us in the Constitution. One of those enumerated rights is the right of people to keep and bear arms provided under the Second Amendment.

“The right to keep and bear arms for defense of life, liberty and property is regarded as an inalienable right by the people.

“I, among many others, believe that HB 5471 is a clear violation of

the Second Amendment to the U.S. Constitution.

“Therefore, as the custodian of the (DuPage County) jail and chief law enforcement official for DuPage County, neither myself nor my office will be checking to ensure that lawful gun owners register their weapons with the state, nor will we be arresting or housing law-abiding individuals that have been arrested solely with non-compliance of this Act.”

County Board Chair Conroy disappointed in Mendrick’s statement

Editor’s note: The following statement was issued by DuPage County Board Chair Deb Conroy on Jan. 13 in response to Sheriff Jim Mendrick’s statement.

“I was disappointed to read the statement released today by DuPage County Sheriff Jim Mendrick. On October 25, the DuPage County Board heard a moving account provided by Highland Park Mayor Nancy Rotering. She detailed the devastating impact one shooter and one assault

weapon had on her town. That day, the Board voted to support a state ban on assault weapons and high-capacity magazines. Illinois Public Act 102-1116 accomplishes those two goals. As Chair of the DuPage County Board, I stand behind the legislation passed to ban assault weapons.

As Governor Pritzker has said, ‘You don’t get to choose which laws you comply with in the state of Illinois.’

And I believe, in DuPage County, we should not be playing politics with state laws.”

We want to print your news!

What’s new with you and your grad?

Special awards and recognition, Dean’s list, graduations, scholarships, further education at graduate or professional schools... send your college news to independent@ rvpublishing.com or FAX to (630)834-0900.

St. Timothy Evangelical Lutheran Church 547 N. Main St. Lombard, IL 60148 (630) 627-2435

Sunday Worship at 10:15 am Sunday School & Bible Study 9am Wednesday Service at 7pm

Adult Bible Study Wednesdays after Service

January 28 Game Night at 4pm

Everyone is Welcome!

All services are live streamed. You can watch them on our website or on Facebook. sainttimothy.org

Per the Illinois State Board of Education report, last year, 57 percent of DuPage County’s public high school students failed the English and language arts portion of the SAT. Willowbrook High School and Glenbard East High School had the fourth worst failure rate at 72 percent each (out of 23 schools). We are getting poor educational value for the high property taxes we pay for our schools. There must be an obvious reason for this high failure rate and dramatic recent change, likely related to school board edict, curriculum change, educator quality and motivation, or student demographics. Someone must be held accountable, as this can’t continue.

* * *

I accept Biden’s 2020 election like I accept the inflated home run totals of Sammy Sosa and several other “sluggers” from the late 1990s and early 2000s. The home run totals of that era in baseball are suspicious, tainted and bizarre. I suspect that’s how more people will view the 2020 election.

* * *

Guest commentator Ben Ruddell of the ACLU (Jan. 12 issue) says “The campaign against ending money bond has really been about denying justice to people accused of crimes, to treat them as guilty before any court has adjudicated the charge.” I believe he is saying some people are held simply because they cannot pay the bond, and yet might be innocent. He goes on to say that people have been held for “lengthy periods of time” because they cannot afford bail. But where does one (the judge?) draw the line at releasing someone on their own recognizance or with low bail; non-violent offenses like felony-level shoplifting or burglary? Hit and run? Attempted murder? To Ruddell’s point, then, should people accused of attempted murder, arson, etc., be allowed out on bail because they might be innocent and are being held in jail unjustly? He accuses “recalcitrant system actors” of spreading misinformation, but I have to wonder, is

this legislation so convoluted that it cannot be adequately explained or spelled out—even among intelligent people—so that everyone can understand it, then form an opinion based on fact and truth?

* * *

Our country’s air-traffic system needs work, but don’t worry, our transportation department is tackling the important issues, like pronouns and gender-neutral language.

* * *

Biden claims he doesn’t know how classified materials ended up in his office and garage. He reminds me of the famous Sergeant Schultz line from Hogan’s Heroes—”I know nothing.” It sounds like Biden’s son Hunter had access to his dad’s garage and office. Hunter, by the way, was paid millions in shady deals involving China and Ukraine. When will the FBI raid Biden’s home and office?

* * *

I’m glad the Buffalo Bills player is improving after he collapsed during the football game in Cincinnati on Jan. 2. It was comforting that so many people were united in praying for him. When there’s a tragic event, some people in the media mock “thoughts and prayers” for the people who are suffering.

* * *

I knew the gas tax was going up at the beginning of the year, but I thought it was only by about 3 cents per gallon, according to several reports. Well, the price has been slowly creeping up; 10 cents here, 10 cents there, now up 50 cents a gallon from a few weeks ago. That is not all the gas tax. This inflation is devastating to those of us on fixed incomes.

* * *

I support the assault weapons ban in Illinois that was passed and signed (by Gov. JB Pritzker last week). Any gun owner I’ve ever known is law-abiding and responsible. Having said that, I see no valid reason for anyone to own an assault weapon.

Last year’s Fourth of July parade in Highland Park proved how deadly these types of weapons can be when

in the wrong hands.

* * *

Democrats recently released six years of Trump’s tax returns. Guess what, there’s no revelation of criminal activity, improper relations with Russia, etc. Once again, Democrats’ narrative has fallen flat. Yet many dim bulbs, including some Speak Out contributors, will still believe all of the left-wing nonsense about Trump. These same people will probably gripe about any investigations into Biden’s shady finances.

* * *

Why did Biden’s lawyers start looking for classified documents in the first place if Joe didn’t even know they existed?

* * *

I had highly classified information in my garage, but it’s OK, because my garage was locked. That’s reassuring, Joe. Can you imagine if Trump had said what Biden said? He would have been mocked on morning shows, network news shows, late-night talk shows, etc. But Joe’s a Democrat, so he’ll get a pass.

Hello all to the houses of worship and clergy in the Lombard in Villa Park area. Let’s help our friends down at the border. I bet we could fill up a couple of buses and bring them up here—the people in need

of housing and each congregation could adopt a family and put them up someplace and help out with the situation. Thank you.

* * *

Great blue state, isn’t it? JB’s done it again, raising your taxes, and now infringing on the rights of civilians who want to protect themselves, protect your daughter from getting assaulted. So let’s do a knee-jerk response to all the crime like what’s going on in Chicago and the other big cities around the U.S. Let’s ban guns. Let’s go soft on criminals, all you people. As a former police of-

ficer, I think this is ridiculous. And apparently so do most of the sheriffs in Illinois outside of Crook County. That’s C-R-O-O-K. Absolutely ridiculous, and I know the soccer moms probably jumped on this. Let’s save the children. It’s not us that are causing the problems. You think this is going to work? How ridiculous. Do you think people are going to listen? Do you think people are going to comply? Get a brain.

* * *

To grocery stores: we don’t want coupons, digital or otherwise. Enough already please.

After stepping down as minority leader, Durkin to exit Illinois House Suburban Republican says party

By Peter Hancock CAPITOL NEWS ILLINOIS

Illinois House Republican Leader Jim Durkin left the Illinois Statehouse Jan. 12 for the last time as a state legislator.

After a bruising 2022 election cycle in which House Republicans lost five seats, Durkin did not seek another term as leader of the caucus. But on Jan. 23, the final scheduled day of the 102nd General Assembly, he resigned his seat altogether, and he left with some less-than-complimentary words for his own party.

“When you’re in Springfield, numbers matter, and this is a game of addition. And unfortunately, we’ve been playing the game of subtraction on a statewide level,” he said during a final news conference in his Statehouse office. “And that’s not going to help this party.”

Durkin, of Western Springs, was first appointed to the House in 1995, a time when Republicans were highly competitive in the Chicago suburbs and other parts of Illinois. He chose not to run for reelection in 2002 when the decennial legislative remap plan put him in the same district with another Republican, instead making an unsuccessful run against Democratic U.S. Sen. Dick Durbin.

compromise on key issues, even to the point of punishing members who did not measure up to what he called a “purity test” imposed by conservatives.

“Again, this purity test that some of the people in this party demand, it’s just … it’s nonsense,’ he said. “It’s absurd. And it’s going to further damage the Republican brand.”

The split between Durkin and the conservative wing of the party was evident during the 2022 election cycle when Durkin refused to endorse state Sen. Darren Bailey’s campaign for governor. During the primary, he endorsed Aurora Mayor Richard Irvin, but Bailey ended up winning the nomination, only to lose to incumbent Democrat JB Pritzker by 12.5 percentage points.

But it was also evident in his public criticisms of former President Donald Trump, whom Durkin blamed for much of the party’s losses in 2022.

“You know, he had an opportunity to do good things, but he turned into a bully,” Durkin said. “And he doesn’t understand that there’s a Constitution which requires a peaceful transition of the office. He just can’t get over it. But he is a person that still gets into the minds of so many people throughout the country, and it’s wrong.”

Senior Joey Tumilty (No. 1) contributed five points. The Warriors will play conference games at Hinsdale South and Addison Trail this week. They will also face Glenbard East in this Saturday’s non-conference contest in Lombard.

• Warriors

ter points.

An armed robbery involving two suspects was reported at a Dunkin Donuts restaurant in the 1-100 block of E. St. Charles at around 5:41 a.m.

Saturday, Jan. 7.

According to the Lombard Police Department, the two suspects, described as black males wearing all black clothing and masks, entered the business, displayed handguns and demanded cash from the register. They

also reportedly took wallets from customers and employees, and then left the location in a dark colored SUV.

Police Chief Roy Newton said the suspects took approximately $200 in cash from the register.

“This was a quick incident and they (suspects) did take some property from the victims,” Newton said. “We (the police department) are in the investigation stage.”

Campbell provided nine of Willowbrook’s 11 points in the fourth quarter. He finished the game with 10 field goals, including four shots from 3-point range. He sank all four of his free-throw attempts.

Sobieszczyk contributed 12 points and 11 rebounds. Seniors Luke Davis and Jaylin Brown added eight and seven points, respectively. Senior Joey Tumilty scored five points.

The Warriors’ schedule this week includes conference games at Hinsdale South and Addison Trail, as well as this Saturday’s non-conference battle at Glenbard East in Lombard.

In 2006, Durkin returned to Springfield via another appointment by party leaders before being elected to the 82nd District seat. His successor will be chosen in that same appointment process, a method Durkin acknowledged isn’t perfect but contended is better than holding a special election.

A self-described moderate Republican, Durkin twice served as the Illinois chairman for U.S. Sen. John McCain’s presidential campaigns. But during his time in office, he witnessed the national GOP move further to the right and the base of the state party move further toward southern Illinois – a move that at times put him at odds with his own caucus.

Most recently, he was the only Republican in the House to vote in favor of an assault weapons ban Jan. 12.

“I’ve been called a RINO (Republican in Name Only). That’s fine. I wear that as a badge of honor. It’s kind of funny,” he said. “But if they really looked at my voting record, it doesn’t reflect that.”

Durkin said that as his party became more conservative, it also became more intransigent and less willing to

Durkin said he plans to return to his private law practice in the Chicago area, but he also plans to continue giving speeches and offering his opinions on issues he thinks are important.

As for the future of the Illinois Republican Party, Durkin said he sees plenty of young talent within the House GOP caucus, including some who are leaving office.

He pointed specifically to people that were part of his leadership team—outgoing Rep. Tom Demmer, of Dixon, who ran unsuccessfully for state treasurer; outgoing Rep. Avery Bourne, of Morrisonville, who ran unsuccessfully for lieutenant governor; Rep. Ryan Spain, of Peoria; and his successor in the leader’s office, Rep. Tony McCombie, of Savanna.

“What’s really important for me has been to develop young talent,” he said. “It didn’t work out for Tom or Avery, but I still consider them the future of the party. They’re young. They brought a lot to the table. They were well-liked, well-spoken and respected. And I still hope that those two and Ryan and Tony all have something to offer the state on a larger scale.”

CHRIS FOX PHOTO Rock Valley Publishing

Armed robbery reported at Lombard Dunkin Donuts

has moved too far right

February is National Children’s Dental Health Month.

Did you know that dental-related ailments are responsible for the loss of more than 50 million school hours each year? That’s right. Thousands of children miss school every year because of some dental-related ailment. Fortunately, many of these ailments can be prevented through good oral care.

This National Children’s Dental Health Month, make your child’s smile a priority. Take them to the dentist regularly and teach them to care for their teeth properly.

SUDOKU Fun by the Numbers

Like puzzles? Then you’ll love sudoku. This mind-bending puzzle will have you hooked from the moment you square off, so sharpen your pencil and put your sudoku savvy to the test! Here’s How It Works: Sudoku puzzles are formatted as a 9x9 grid, broken down into nine 3x3 boxes. To solve a sudoku, the numbers 1 through 9 must fill each row, column and box. Each number can appear only once in each row, column and box. You can figure out the order in which the numbers will appear by using the numeric clues already provided in the boxes. The more numbers you name, the easier it gets to solve the puzzle!

CLASSIFIED IN-COLUMN ADS cannot be credited or refunded after the ad has been placed. Ads canceled before deadline will be removed from the paper as a service to our customers, but no credit or refund will be issued to your account.

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

https://homepaintingillino.wixsite.com/website PAINTERS. FULL-SERVICE. 425020

PAINTERS. FULL-SERVICE. INSIDE. OUTSIDE. HOME. BUSINESS. SATISFACTION GUARANTEED. CALL GREG: (630)234-1471.

https://homepaintingillino.wixsite.com/website PAINTERS. FULL-SERVICE. PAINTERS. FULL-SERVICE. INSIDE. OUTSIDE. HOME. BUSINESS. SATISFACTION GUARANTEED. CALL GREG: (630)234-1471.

v v v v v v

Glowiak Hilton supports medical licensing bill

State Sen. Suzy Glowiak Hilton supported a measure on Tuesday, Jan. 10, to protect licensed medical professionals from intrusive laws of other states.

“Illinois health care professionals should not lose their licenses or be penalized because of the restrictive laws of neighboring states,” said Glowiak Hilton (D-Western Springs). “With this measure, we are protecting health care professionals who are doing the right thing.”

The measure protects Illinois professionals from being penalized for providing care that is prohibited in other states. Further, it protects the right to fertility treatment throughout the state.

“Simply put: A doctor licensed in Missouri and Illinois, whose license is suspended in Missouri for referring a woman to a reproductive health clinic, should not have their license suspended in Illinois,” Glowiak Hilton said. “Medical professionals should not worry about their professional licenses being jeopardized for performing health care services that are legal in Illinois but prohibited in other states.”

House Bill 4664 passed in the Senate Tuesday, Jan. 10.

Editor’s note: This was submitted by the office of State Sen. Suzy Glowiak Hilton.

A very crowded Maxwell Street is pictured here, which provided all kinds of music, shopping and entertainment for Chicago’s immigrant community. Learn more about it at the upcoming lecture by historian Sam Mitrani, ‘How the World Arrived on Lake Michigan’s Shores’ hosted by the Elmhurst History Museum on Sunday, Jan. 29 at 2 p.m. Admission is $5 or free for Heritage Foundation members.

EHM presents lecture on Chicago’s immigration history

Historian presents ‘How the World Arrived on Lake Michigan’s Shores’

For generations, at least since the first Algonquianspeaking tribes arrived here, the Chicago area has attracted people from all over the world whose lives were disrupted by war, famine, revolution, and economic crisis. What is it about Chicago and its suburbs that has drawn immigrants from across the globe to the shores of Lake Michigan throughout history and continues to do so in modern times?

The Elmhurst History Museum welcomes College of DuPage Professor of History and author Sam Mitrani for an illustrated lecture on Sunday, Jan. 29 at 2 p.m. to consider some of the factors that have made Chicago an immigration hub. Participants will learn why so many came here and how these successive waves of immigrants have shaped and been shaped by this region.

The program takes place in the Elmhurst History Museum’s Education Center which is located just south of the museum at 120 E. Park Ave. in Elmhurst. Tickets are $5 for non-members and free to Elmhurst Heritage Foundation members. Reservations can be made online at elmhursthistory.org. A limited number of walk-ins may be accommodated on a space available basis the day of the program. Free parking is available in the museum parking lot and in nearby City of Elmhurst garages.

This program is presented in connection with the Elmhurst History Museum’s current exhibit, In Pursuit of Happiness: Immigrants in Our Communities, which continues its run through Sunday, May 14. The exhibit examines the personal stories and experiences of area immigrants and their descendants as told through firstperson accounts, photographs, treasured objects, video and more. Visitors will gain a better understanding of DuPage County’s growing diversity and the challenges immigrants and their families face as they shape an evolving identity in this country. Admission is free and more information can be found at elmhursthistory.org.

IDPH reports 59 counties at ‘Elevated’ Level for COVID-19

The Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) announced Jan. 13 that the CDC is reporting 59 counties in the state are at an elevated level for COVID-19, compared to 73 in the previous week.

Of those, three Illinois counties are at a High Community Level, compared to 28 the previous week; and 56 counties are at Medium Level, compared to 45 the previous week. IDPH is reporting 16,602 new confirmed and probable cases of COVID-19 in Illinois in the week ending Jan. 8, and 113 deaths.

“I am encouraged to see COVID-19 community levels once again declining and hospital capacity remaining stable this week,” said IDPH Director Dr. Sameer Vohra.

“Thank you to all Illinois residents who have continued to protect themselves and their loved ones from infection. IDPH is closely monitoring the XBB ‘Kraken’ variant which is spreading in the northeastern United States and leading to increased cases and hospitalizations. Although we are currently seeing low rates in Illinois at about 8 percent of clinical samples, it is important for all of us to prepare for and be aware of this emerging variant. Please continue to use all of the tools available to protect yourself and your loved ones from COVID-19, the flu, and other respiratory diseases, especially those most at risk for severe disease.”

On Dec. 9, the CDC expanded its authorization for bivalent boosters to include children aged 6 months to 5 years. Children ages 6 months through 5 years who previously completed a Moderna primary series can now receive a Moderna bivalent booster 2 months after their final primary series dose. Children ages 6 months through 4 years who are completing a Pfizer primary series will receive a Pfizer bivalent vaccine as their third primary dose.

The updated boosters are available at pharmacies, hospitals, and other healthcare providers. The best way to locate a vaccine provider near you is to visit www.vaccines.gov and search for bivalent booster availability.

As of Jan. 12, 1,395 individuals in Illinois were reported to be in the hospital with COVID-19. Of those, 169 patients were in the ICU and 62 patients with COVID-19 were on ventilators. The preliminary seven-day statewide case rate is 130 COVID-19 cases per 100,000 Illinoisans.

ELMHURST HISTORY MUSEUM PHOTO Elmhurst Independent

“ I am encouraged to see COVID-19 community levels once again declining and hospital capacity remaining stable this week.”

– Dr. Sameer Vobra

Former West Chicago volleyball coach accused of possession, distribution of child pornography

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR THE 18TH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT

DUPAGE COUNTY - WHEATON, ILLINOIS RESIDENTIAL

Michael Reidy set bond at $75,000 with 10 percent to apply.

Gyula Finlon

DuPage County State’s Attorney Robert B. Berlin and West Chicago Chief of Police Colin Fleury have announced that bond has been set for a former Bartlett High School volleyball coach charged with disseminating and possessing child pornography.

Gyula Finlon, 25, of Wheaton, appeared at a bond hearing where Judge

Finlon has been charged with three counts of exhibit, reproduce, disseminate child pornography (Class 1 felony), one count of unauthorized video recording—victim under 18 (Class 2 felony) and three counts of possession of child pornography, a Class 3 felony.

Through their ongoing efforts to combat child pornography, authorities with the West Chicago Police Department were made aware of the possible dissemination of child por-

nography. Following an investigation, it is alleged beginning in late 2020 through January of this year, Finlon was in possession of child pornography and that he disseminated child pornography through social media.

“The allegation that Mr. Finlon was not only in possession of child pornography but also shared pornographic images with others is disturbing,” Berlin said. “As I have said many times in the past, every image of child pornography represents yet another innocent victim of child pornography and my office will not hes-

itate to bring charges against anyone involved in such behavior. I want to emphasize that the allegations against Mr. Finlon are in no way connected to his work as a coach at Bartlett High School and the victim was not a student there. Throughout this investigation, authorities at Bartlett High School have been extremely cooperative and for that I thank them. I also thank the West Chicago Police Department.”

Finlon’s next court appearance is scheduled Feb. 6 for arraignment in front of Judge Reidy.

Sheriffs say they want no role in enforcing state’s assault weapon registry

Approximately 80 top law enforcement officials issue warning

By Hannah Meisel FOR CAPITOL NEWS ILLINOIS

Dozens of county sheriffs in Illinois—approximately “80-ish,” per Illinois Sheriffs’ Association head Jim Kaitschuck—say they’ll refuse to enforce a provision of a new assault weapons ban that would require owners of such guns to register them with the state.

In the wake of Gov. JB Pritzker’s signature last week of the law banning the sale and manufacture of assault weapons in Illinois, many sheriffs have written nearly identical letters expressing their unwillingness to enforce the law’s requirement for registering assault-style weapons with the state.

Beginning next year, a gun owner’s failure to provide the state police with the serial numbers for assault-style rifles they own prior to Jan. 1, 2024, will be a Class A misdemeanor, punishable by up to 364 days in prison. The degree of charges could increase based on the number of unregistered guns.

But Kaitschuck contended it would be impossible for local sheriffs to know who in their county owns assault weapons if those gun owners don’t voluntarily comply with the law, suggesting it would be ridiculous to go door-to-door to find out.

“We have no inventory of guns bought and sold that are available to local sheriffs,” Kaitschuck said

of information partially available to the Illinois State Police. “We don’t have access to it—and I’m not asking for it either, by the way.”

Several gun rights organizations say they are planning to challenge the law in federal court, buoyed by a 2022 U.S. Supreme Court decision which Second Amendment proponents believe could mean friendlier opinions on firearms-related claims moving forward.

Democrats and advocates who pushed for Illinois to pass the nation’s ninth statewide ban on assault weapons had expected litigation, but on Jan. 12, maintained that unless the law gets struck down, sheriffs’ refusal to enforce any part of it is a dereliction of duty.

“They took an oath of office to uphold the law,” Pritzker said at an unrelated news conference. “As law enforcement, that’s their job. And I expect them to do that job. You can have all the resolutions and declarations that you want (but) the reality is that the laws that are on the books, you don’t get to choose which ones people are going to follow.”

But Kaitschuck countered with the common example of police declining to write a ticket to a driver pulled over for driving 10 miles over the speed limit.

“If I pull somebody over for speeding going 65 in a 55, and I don’t write them a ticket, does

• Chase (Continued from page 6)

West Chicago Police Department were able to locate Hubbert in his vehicle at the same gas station a short time later. When officers attempted to speak with Hubbert, he allegedly drove off. It is alleged that as officers pursued Hubbert, he ignored their commands to pull over and at times, drove approximately 70 mph in a 35-mph zone. It is further alleged as Hubbert attempted to flee, he struck two police cars, one from West Chicago and one from Warrenville, before coming to a stop on I-88, where was arrested.

“It is alleged that a verbal argument between Mr. Hubbert and his girlfriend turned physical resulting in

Mr. Hubbert administering an hourslong, vicious beating with a belt,” Berlin said. “It is further alleged that in an attempt to avoid responsibility for his actions, Mr. Hubbert displayed a complete lack of respect for the law and public safety by leading police on a high-speed chase along a busy roadway. In DuPage County, we have zero tolerance for domestic violence as well as the total disregard for the safety of the motoring public and anyone accused of such actions will be arrested, charged and vigorously prosecuted.”

Hubbert’s next court appearance is scheduled Feb. 9 for arraignment in front of Judge McPherson.

that mean I’m not enforcing (the law)?” he asked. “And I know we’re talking apples to oranges here, but…my point on this is that officers have discretion. We don’t arrest everybody we could or else our jails would be totally overrun.”

The sheriffs’ letters this week primarily dealt with enforcing the registry portion of the assault weapons law, and Kaitschuck said he wasn’t aware of any sheriffs in his organization who don’t plan on complying with the law’s other provisions, like the ban of sales of assault weapons at Illinois gun shops.

However, Chicago-Kent College of Law professor Harold Krent argued the sheriffs’ letters go beyond what was explicitly stated and said the symbolism of law enforcement officers refusing to comply with state law is a slippery slope.

Krent contrasted the sheriffs’ move with state’s attorneys’ ac -

tions surrounding the cashless bail provision of Illinois’ SAFE-T Act, which was supposed to do away with cash bond in Illinois on Jan. 1. Despite grumbling from dozens of state’s attorneys in Illinois, even the staunchest opponents to the law were at least somewhat prepared to comply with it in the new year, at least until the Illinois Supreme Court stayed the law on Dec. 31, pending a full appeal.

“There, (the state’s attorneys) went to court and said, ‘We’re not going to block the process but we want a judicial resolution.’ That’s a norm in our country,” Krent said. “...The General Assembly has decided (the assault weapons ban is) constitutional. The attorney general has decided it’s constitutional.

I think it’s an incredible risk for sheriffs to say, ‘We’re not going to enforce a law.’ … because that’s encouraging a lack of respect for the law.”

Lakeview Loan Servicing, LLC PLAINTIFF vs. Monica J. Komperda; et. al. DEFENDANTS No. 2022FC000510

NOTICE OF SHERIFF’S SALE OF REAL ESTATE

PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above cause on 10/05/2022, James Mendrick, the Sheriff of DuPage County, Illinois will on February 14, 2023 at the hour of 10:00 AM at Dupage County Sheriff’s Office 501 North County Farm Road Wheaton, IL 60187, or in a place otherwise designated at the time of sale, County of DuPage and State of Illinois, sell at public auction to the highest bidder for cash, as set forth below, the following described real estate: PIN 06-10-114-011

Improved with Residential COMMONLY KNOWN AS: 208 S. Myrtle Avenue Villa Park, IL 60181

Sale terms: 10% down of the highest bid by certified funds at the close of the auction; The balance, including the Judicial sale fee for Abandoned Residential Property Municipality Relief Fund, which is calculated at the rate of $1 for each $1,000 or fraction thereof of the amount paid by the purchaser not to exceed $300, in certified funds, is due within twenty-four (24) hours. The subject property is subject to general real estate taxes, special assessments, or special taxes levied against said real estate and is offered for sale without any representation as to quality or quantity of title and without recourse to Plaintiff and in “AS IS” condition. The sale is further subject to confirmation by the court.

If the property is a condominium and the foreclosure takes place after 1/1/2007, purchasers other than the mortgagees will be required to pay any assessment and legal fees due under The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/9(g)(1) and (g)(4).

If the property is located in a common interest community, purchasers other than mortgagees will be required to pay any assessment and legal fees due under the Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/18.5(g-1).

If the sale is set aside for any reason, the Purchaser at the sale shall be entitled only to a return of the deposit paid. The Purchaser shall have no further recourse against the Mortgagor, the Mortgagee or the Mortgagee’s attorney. Upon payment in full of the amount bid, the purchaser shall receive a Certificate of Sale, which will entitle the purchaser to a Deed to the real estate after Confirmation of the sale. The successful purchaser has the sole responsibility/expense of evicting any tenants or other individuals presently in possession of the subject premises.

The property will NOT be open for inspection and Plaintiff makes no representation as to the condition of the property. Prospective bidders are admonished to check the Court file to verify all information.

IF YOU ARE THE MORTGAGOR (HOMEOWNER), YOU HAVE THE RIGHT TO REMAIN IN POSSESSION FOR 30 DAYS AFTER ENTRY OF AN ORDER OF POSSESSION, IN ACCORDANCE WITH SECTION 15-1701(C) OF THE ILLINOIS MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE LAW.

For information: Examine the court file or contact Plaintiff’s attorney: Codilis & Associates, P.C., 15W030 North Frontage Road, Suite 100, Burr Ridge, IL 60527, (630) 794-9876. Please refer to file number 14-22-05262. I3210076

(Published in the Addison Independent, Bensenville Independent & Villa Park Review Jan. 5, 12 & 19, 2023) 430789

Rock Valley Publishing Can Publish Your Legals. Call 815-877-4044

Or email your legals to legals@rvpublishing.com 425131

A