VPR012623

Play at the plate

at Willowbrook

Happy Warriors

Cox in the top of the second inning, when the game was tied at 2-2. Downers Grove South’s catcher tagged Rugg out at home plate for the third out of the inning. The Mustangs went on to defeat the Warriors 7-3 in the West Suburban Gold Conference contest. Wil-

Willowbrook High School’s Class of 2021 celebrated its commencement with two separate ceremonies in the school’s main gymnasium on Sunday morning. The entire class includes over 470 students. About half of those students attended the

Willowbrook High School’s boys basketball team defeated Glenbard East 88-63 in Saturday afternoon’s non-conference game in Lombard. The Warriors raised their overall season record to 6-13 with the road win over their nearby rival. Senior Stanton

InsIde:

lowbrook rebounded from Friday’s loss to post an 11-2 win in Saturday’s game at Hinsdale Central. The Warriors bashed three home runs in the second inning of Saturday’s non-conference battle against the Red Devils of the West Suburban Silver Conference. Senior Annemarie Knudtson, freshman Isabella Dugo and sophomore Kayleigh Dennison provided the home runs. Dennison (No. 5) is pictured in the background of the above photo. For more about the Warriors, see page 14.

Arbor Day in Villa Park

ceremony that began at 9 a.m. The others participated in the ceremony that started at 11 a.m. The photo shows members of the Willowbrook Senior Choir performing during the day’s first service. For more photos, see Page 4.

Turner of Willowbrook made three fourth-quarter field goals to provide six points in Saturday’s victory over the Rams. Some of the Warriors’ players and fans are pictured while celebrating one of Turner’s baskets. For more about the Warriors, see page 8.

Memorial Day in Villa Park

That list included

Federal judge sets trial date for State Sen. Tom Cullerton--Page

in

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.

Freshman Lindsey Rugg of the Willowbrook softball team is pictured while attempting to score a run during Friday’s game at Downers Grove South. Rugg tried to score from second base on a single by sophomore Katelyn

CHRIS FOX PHOTO Villa Park Review

CHRIS FOX PHOTO Villa Park Review

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.

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

October 2020. He was 94 years old. Bergh was the post’s last surviving World War II veteran.

CHRIS FOX PHOTO Villa Park Review

CHRIS FOX PHOTO Villa Park Review

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.

Conroy delivers first State of the County address

Not surprisingly, business climate has improved since COVID-19

By Dee Longfellow FOR THE INDEPENDENT

On Wednesday, Jan. 18, about 140150 people filled a banquet room at the Doubletree Hotel in Downers Grove

hear the State of the County

first time

by

Deb Conroy, DuPage County Board Chair. The event also included a mini-business expo of several companies from throughout the area.

One of the first points Conroy made was how unemployment in

April of 2020 was at 13.6% in the County.

“A total of 4.5 million people left their jobs in 2021,” she said. “A study indicated that 20 per cent of workers intended to leave their jobs in 2021.”

Gratefully, the current rate of unemployment is just 3.2%, showing the County is back on track, Conroy said.

Following her address, Conroy in-

troduced representatives from WorkNet DuPage, a local organization that provides training grants for people in the DuPage business region.

WorkNet DuPage provided $313,000 in training grants for 130 employees and awarded $1.9 million in training scholarships.

Conroy announced that in the County, 36% of careers are in transportation, 25% in technology and

16% in healthcare. There was a 30% increase in the average salary here in DuPage, slightly more than the national average, which increased by 28%.

Reducing supply chain interruptions is a priority for Conroy. Conroy noted that Choose DuPage is another organization in the County operating

DEE LONGFELLOW PHOTOS The Independent Several County officials and business leaders attended the State of the County address, delivered for the first time by newly-elected DuPage County Board Chair Deb Conroy, including (standing, from left): Luke Oosterhouse, vice president of commercial services, Providence Bank & Trust; Cindy Cronin Cahill, County Board member, District 1; (seated from left): Sheila Rutledge, County Board, District 6; Paula Deacon Garcia, County Board, District 2; and, Liz Chaplin, County Board, District 2. (Note: Oosterhouse is not a member of the DuPage County Board.)

Scott LaMorte (left), vice president of Business Development at Itasca Bank & Trust, chats with David Hill III, CEO of Superior Ambulance at the annual State of the County address, delivered by County Board Chair Deb Conroy.

Kim Godden (right), vice president of Legal, Government Relations and Corporate Compliance for Superior Ambulance, introduced Deb Conroy, prior to her first address as the newly-elected DuPage County Board Chair. The address was held on Wednesday, Jan. 18.

to

address, delivered for the

newly-elected

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

Jan. 17

Jerry John, 41, of Addison, was charged with obstructing identification in the 1700 block of W. Army Trail at 1:44 a.m.

Jan. 16

Julio C. Cruz-Sanchez, 48, of Addison, was charged with DUI, illegal possession and transportation of liquor by a driver, improper lane usage and speeding near Mill and Lake at 2:25 a.m.

Jan. 15

Alexis Cruz-Martinez, 27, of Addison, was charged with two counts of DUI and speeding near Army Trail and Mill at 1:45 a.m.

Moises Ramos Chable, 34, of Mount Prospect, was charged with

DUI and improper lane usage near Lake and Grand at 1:54 a.m.

Elvis J. Salas-Bastardo, 32, of Addison, was charged with two counts of DUI and speeding 30-39 mph over the limit near Army Trail and Heritage at 9:37 p.m.

Jan. 14

Shanna B. Arnett, 44, of Lombard, was charged with DUI and speeding near Army Trail and Swift at 10:31 p.m.

Sipriano A. Tomas Garcia, 31, of Addison, was charged with DUI and improper parking near School and Byron at 3:40 a.m.

Jan. 13

Justin Alexander Cosby, 22, of Chicago, was charged with aggravated unlawful use of a weapon on person and speeding 40-plus mph over the limit near Swift and Army Trail at 9:59 p.m.

Pierre Alei Carll Moton, 20, of Chicago, was charged with aggravated unlawful use of a weapon on person near Swift and Army Trail at 10:01 p.m.

Jan. 12

Jesus Macias, 42, of Addi-son, was charged with DUI, illegal possession

and transportation of liquor by a driver and driving while license suspended in the 800 block of College.

Jan. 11

Juan R. Gutierrez-Rivas, 57, of Addison, was charged with three counts of violation of an order of protection at 12:45 p.m.

Jan. 10

A 60-year-old Addison man was charged with two counts of domestic battery in the 300 block of W. Park

at 8:54 p.m.

Jan. 9

Ronald J. Cruise, 68, of Warrenville, was charged with two counts of DUI, illegal possession/transportation of liquor by a driver and improper lane usage near Route 53 and Fullerton at 9:02 p.m. Margarito Ramos, 36, of Addison, was charged with DUI and illegal possession/transportation of liquor by a driver in the 100 block of S. Lincoln at 1:06 a.m.

A 31-year-old Addison woman was charged with two counts of domestic battery in the 500 block of N. Macie at 1:55 a.m.

Jan. 8

Chassity A. Calvin, 24, of Chicago, was charged with two counts of DUI near Lake and I-355 at 12:37 a.m.

Villa Park Jan. 14

Adam Marcelo, 19, of Lombard, was charged with theft less than $500, possession and consumption of liquor by a minor, displaying a fraudulent identification card and contributing to the delinquency of a minor at a restaurant in the 300 block of E. St. Charles at 1:10 a.m.

A male juvenile, 17, of Lombard, was charged with theft, unlawful consumption of alcohol by a minor, possession of a fraudulent identification card and possession of tobacco products at a restaurant in the 300 block of E. St. Charles at 1:10 a.m.

Jan. 13

A complainant at a store in the 100 block of W. Roosevelt reported at 3:20 p.m. that a subject was causing a disturbance and yelling at the complainant. The subject was gone upon officers’ arrival.

A complainant at a hotel in the 1-100 block of W. Roosevelt reported at 4:19 p.m. that an unknown suspect damaged the inside of the hotel room with a permanent marker.

Jan. 12

Police said Andrew O. Cowsky, 22, of Hodgkins, was arrested on an original complaint and warrant for phone harassment/abuse, threatening or harassing in the 1-100 block of N. Michigan at 7:12 p.m. for an alleged incident that was reported Nov. 18, 2022.

Emily E. O’Brien, 34, of Arlington Heights, was charged with DUI near S. Villa and E. Blackstone at 11:25 p.m.

Jan. 10

Police said Daryll D. Foster, 42, of Arlington Heights, was arrested on a failure to appear warrant out of DuPage County in the 300 block of W. North at 7:56 p.m.

Jan. 9

A complainant in the 500 block of S. Riverside report-ed at 5:40 p.m. they received a suspicious package in the mail.

Jan. 8

Christopher M. Becerra, 26, of Addison, was charged with violation of an order of protection in the 400 block of N. Ardmore at 7:38 p.m.

Police said Christopher Galvez, 25, of Addison, was arrested on three failure to appear warrants out of DuPage County in the 100 block of E. North at 12:59 a.m.

Fraud, identity theft

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

Villa Park juvenile accused of threatening school violence

DuPage County State’s Attorney Robert Berlin and Villa Park Chief of Police Michael Rivas have announced that a 13-year-old male Villa Park resident has been accused of threatening another juvenile and his family.

The juvenile appeared at a detention hearing where Judge Demetrios Panoushis ordered that he be detained until at least his next court appearance. He has been charged with two counts of disorderly conduct, a Class 4 felony.

On Jan. 17, the Villa Park Police Department became aware of an alleged threat made by a juvenile directed at the victim and the victim’s family. It is alleged that during a Snapchat group video, a verbal argument between the juvenile and the victim escalated at which time the juvenile made threatening statements such as he is going to “bring a gun to school … and going to finish what he started,” knowing that the victim’s mother stays at the house he’s “going to spray the house” and knowing that the victim’s younger brother goes to the YMCA after school he would “get him there.” An investigation into the matter led authorities to the juvenile who was taken into custody later that day.

“My office takes any threat of violence directed at a school extremely seriously and anyone suspected of such behavior will be investigated and charged accordingly, regardless of the accused’s age,” Berlin said. “Threats are not harmless jokes or an excuse to blow off steam during an argument, they have a chilling effect on the victims, particularly young victims. I thank the Villa Park Police Department for their quick response and thorough investigation in this case.”

“We have seen an alarming increase in the number of threats made that end up being school related,” Rivas said. “We take all school threats seriously and we will investigate all such incidents vigorously and completely. Schools should be safe spaces where students are free to learn and grow without the fear of violence. The policing community in DuPage County is well trained in Restorative Justice.

“The threat of violence does not always work in a Restorative Model as victims of violence need to know there is full accountability for the actions of the alleged accuser. We thank the school system for putting trust in the Villa Park Police Department to handle such a serious matter. We would also like to thank the actions of our Villa Park Detectives as well as DuPage County State’s Attorney Bob Berlin and his office for their collaborative work in this incident.”

The juvenile’s next court appearance is scheduled for Feb. 9 in front of Judge Panoushis.

Volunteering to help others

State Rep. Blair-Sherlock seeks input from constituents

State Rep. Diane Blair-Sherlock, D-Villa Park, is urging community members to reach out to her office with any bill ideas they may have for the new legislative session.

“Going forward into the 103rd General Assembly, I am committed to working alongside my community to pass meaningful legislation that will serve our district and state,” Blair-Sherlock said. “In order to do so, I must first hear about the issues that trouble our community.” “It is important that I listen to all members of our community,

especially the most vulnerable, to gain an understanding of their insightful perspectives on issues they face that may be unbeknown to others.”

As the 2023 session is steadily approaching, community members are welcome to submit suggestions of bill ideas and or any feedback to Blair-Sherlock’s constituent office by email at StateRep46@gmail.com or attend her monthly district meeting held on Zoom. Click on the registration link http://bit. ly/3QOAJrw to sign up.

“As I begin my first term in office

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representing the 43rd District in Springfield, I plan on advancing the interest of our community, all while keeping in mind our shared values and objectives,” Blair-Sherlock said.“That is why I urge you to share any bill ideas you may have, no matter how small or big they may be. Please remember that your voices are what keep our democracy functioning.

Editor’s note: This was submitted by the office of State Rep. Diane Blair-Sherlock.

Bill guaranteeing workers five days of paid leave will head to governor

By Nika Schoonover CAPITOL NEWS ILLINOIS

A bill that would guarantee a minimum of 40 hours of paid leave per year for all Illinois workers passed both chambers of the General Assembly recently and will soon head to Gov. JB Pritzker, who says he will sign it.

Under Senate Bill 208, workers begin to earn paid leave on their first day at a rate of one hour of leave for every 40 hours worked, up to 40 hours of paid leave for the year. They can begin using their leave after 90 days, although an employer may allow them to use it sooner.

Once signed, the measure would take effect on Jan. 1, 2024.

“Paid leave for all is about the dignity of work,” said Rep. Jehan Gordon-Booth, D-Peoria, a lead sponsor on the bill. “It’s about humanizing and honoring the realities that we know that adult workers have in our daily lives and providing a space for folks to just do what it is that we all have the luxury and are so blessed to do.”

Republicans who opposed the bill

said it would be bad for small businesses, criticizing the legislation for raising costs.

“My ultimate concern is that we, in this body, we pass millions and millions and millions of dollars of incentives for large corporations,” Rep. C.D. Davidsmeyer, R-Jacksonville, said on the House floor. “And, on the other hand, we pass mandates on small businesses—and I know this isn’t just for small businesses. But my major concern are the little guys. It’s the mom and pops that have 5, 10, maybe 13 employees, that this has a significant impact on their budgets.”

Gordon-Booth pushed back on that argument.

“The idea that we have to play this zero-sum game of you either support business or you support employees, I refuse to accept that is our reality,” she said. “I believe that we can show and have shown with this negotiation that you can support employees, all the while supporting employers by providing the consistency and the implementation of a policy such as this.”

Under the law, workplaces would still be able to require their employees to provide notice before taking paid time off. If the paid leave is not used by the end of the year, it carries over.

The bill is supported by workers’ rights groups and unions including Women Employed, the Chicago Urban League and the Service Employees International Union.

Gordon-Booth said the measure had been under negotiation since 2019, and multiple key business groups had come to a point of supporting the measure or taking a neutral stance on it.

While the measure received a few Republican votes in the House, it passed the Senate with only Democratic support.

The bill still needs approval from Pritzker, who expressed his support in a statement.

“Working families face enough challenges without the concern of losing a day’s pay when life gets in the way. I’m looking forward to signing this legislation and giving a safety net to hardworking Illinoisans,” he said.

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Members of Willowbrook High School’s Tri-M (Modern Music Masters) Honor Society recently demonstrated their commitment to giving back and helping others. Last week, 21 Tri-M members volunteered at Feed My Starving Children in Schaumburg. The students helped pack over 31,000 meals, which will feed 86 children for a year.

Viewpoint

Slices of life

The birthday party without an invite

I went to many birthday parties when I was a kid. I don’t remember most of them. One I do remember, vividly, however, is the party to which I didn’t receive an invitation.

It was in celebration of one of my good friend’s 10th birthdays. I was unaware of the occurrence of such a mega event, which happened on a Sunday afternoon, until Monday morning, when it was the talk of the entire fifth grade.

Chicago area U.S. Representatives call on Sheriff Mendrick to rescind statement on H.B. 5471

Editor’s note: Last week, six Chicago area U. S. Representatives, including Sean Casten (Sixth Congressional District) and Raja Krishnamoorthi (Eighth Congressional District), sent a letter to DuPage County Sheriff James Mendrick expressing concern over his Jan. 13 statement that he will not enforce the Protect Illinois Communities Act (H.B. 5471). The legislation bans the sale and distribution of assault-style weapons, high-capacity magazines, and switches in Illinois. Here is the letter:

Dear Sheriff Mendrick:

We write to express significant concern with your statement on Jan. 13, indicating that you will not enforce the recently passed H.B. 5471, the Protect Illinois Communities Act. This legislation bans the sale and distribution of assault weapons, high-capacity magazines, and switches that allow handguns to fire rounds automatically, it also requires owners of banned weapons to register them with the Illinois State Police.

As sheriff, you do not have the authority to set enforcement priorities based on your personal views of a law’s constitutionality. Moreover, by choosing not to enforce the law, you will put the safety of DuPage residents and law enforcement officers at risk.

To that end, we request that you immediately rescind your Jan. 13 statement and clarify that you will uphold your office’s mission statement, including your duty to “enforce the laws of

the State of Illinois and the county of DuPage in a fair and impartial manner.”

It is clear that your statement was misguided and erroneous due to the widespread condemnation from DuPage County residents, several county board members, and state legislators.

We survive as a nation of laws and maintain the consent of the governed only to the degree that the public trusts that those laws will be equally and consistently enforced. Your assertion that the law enforcement officers under your command will not enforce laws passed by the State of Illinois at your sole discretion will lead to public distrust of the police, putting the safety of police officers and the general public at risk.

The United States has more guns per capita and more gun-related deaths per capita than any other developed nation. We also have the highest rate of mass shootings, commonly committed with the type of assault weapons that were recently banned under Illinois state law. This phenomenon also exists at the state level. The states with the highest rates of gun ownership also have the highest rate of gun-related deaths, including homicides and suicide.

A decision to maintain access to high-capacity weapons, like the one used in the July 4, 2022, Highland Park massacre, is a decision to put police and civilian lives at needless, avoidable risk.

Considering these concerns, we re-

quest your responses to the following questions by Friday, Feb. 3:

• Do you assert that you have the authority as the sheriff of DuPage County to selectively disregard state laws that you, in your judgment, believe to be unconstitutional? If so, please clarify where that authority resides.

• Have you, in your capacity as sheriff, ever previously opined that a state law was unconstitutional and directed your department not to enforce that law? If so, please provide details.

• Your department is funded and directed by the DuPage County Board. On Oct. 25, 2022, that board voted unanimously in support of a statewide ban on assault weapons and high-capacity magazines. Did you consult with any member of the board before issuing your Jan. 13 statement? Please provide details of any pertinent communications.

Public trust in our institutions depends, in part, on the principle that laws, once passed, will apply equally to all. The Protect Illinois Communities Act was passed with a focus of protecting Illinoisans across the state, regardless of geographical location. We look forward to your timely response to this letter.

Sincerely, U.S. Rep. Sean Casten U.S. Rep. Delia Ramirez U.S. Rep. Jesús “Chuy” García U.S. Rep. Mike Quigley U.S. Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi U.S. Rep. Bill Foster

My friend Elizabeth had been to my house many times, and I to hers. I thought we were very close. Turns out there were at least a dozen or so girls she deemed closer.

I was devastated.

This was mid-January. Elizabeth was now 11. I was still 10 because my birthday was in the upcoming month of February.

Yep. Are you thinking what I’m thinking?

The tables had turned. It was my turn to plan the party and invite the guests.

I’d discussed my angst at the non-invitation with my mom and she acknowledged my right to feel slighted. And then she made a suggestion about my upcoming party.

“I think you should invite Elizabeth,” she said. “She may not have invited you, but leaving her out won’t change that. If you see her as a friend, show her and maybe she will come to understand how true friends treat each other.”

I, of course, counter-argued, “But she didn’t invite me!”

To that, my mom explained that meeting a perceived wrong with a similar action doesn’t help anyone.

“You felt bad when you found out about her party,” my mom said. “How will she feel if you do the same to her for your party? And, just as importantly, how will that make you feel?”

My 10-year-old brain contemplated that thought and I realized, rather quickly (to my surprise) that inviting Elizabeth was right in a number of ways, while not inviting her was wrong.

Offering the proverbial olive branch made my heart happy, while thoughts of excluding my

By JILL PERTLER Slices of Life

friend were only coming from a dark place. Even at 10 years old I understood that.

When I brought my party invitations to school a few days later I handed one to Elizabeth. Her eye widened and I could see she was surprised.

“You’re inviting me to your party?” She asked. “I didn’t invite you to mine.”

“I know,” I said. “I want you to come. I didn’t want to leave you out.”

She smiled and I smiled, and with that one exchange the discomfort of her party was put behind us. She did come to my party and we remained friends through age 11 and maybe even through age 12.

We were kids. Learning and growing from our mistakes. Sometimes the hard way, sometimes through the grace and insight of a wise mother.

But, here’s the real lesson in all of this. It’s one I just realized, decades later:

I never would have thought twice about inviting Elizabeth had she not invited me. I never would have confided in my mom and she, in turn, never would have had the chance to teach me this truth had I not been excluded in the first place.

Sometimes valuable insight and knowledge comes from the least likely of places—from darkness or at least the shadows.

Without shadows, we might not appreciate the light.

Elizabeth, in leaving me out, gave me a chance to embrace the light. Find your lessons from the most unlikely of places and darkest corners. That where they most often can be found.

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

Two Warriors turn in strong efforts at boys bowling sectional

Warriors beat the Blazers before losing to York and Hinsdale South

Jarrett and

Primdahl

both fall short in their quests for state-meet berths

STAFF REPORT

Two Willowbrook boys bowlers competed as individuals in Saturday’s IC Catholic Prep Sectional at Bowlero in Glendale Heights. The two Warriors—seniors Henry Jarrett and Dylan Primdahl—did not qualify for this week’s IHSA state meet in downstate Fairview Heights, near St. Louis.

The IC Catholic Prep Sectional’s top seven individuals who weren’t members of state-qualifying teams advanced to the state meet.

Jarrett and Primdahl narrowly missed securing individual state-meet berths. Jarrett finished 17th among all individuals at the sectional, while Primdahl placed 18th. The sectional featured more than 100 bowlers.

Jarrett fired a six-game sectional total of 1,299. He opened the event by rolling a 226 in his first game. He then shot a 179 in his second game before bowling a 255 in his third game. Jarrett delivered his best game of the sectional—a 268—in his fourth game. He wrapped up the sectional with a 159 in his fifth game, followed by a 212 in his sixth game.

The bowler who secured the seventh individual state-meet berth at the IC Catholic Prep Sectional bowled a six-game total of 1,311.

Primdahl turned in his best game of the sectional in his opening game, when he rolled a 257. He then bowled scores of 194 and 169 in his next two games. Primdahl fired a 217 in his fourth game. He posted a 253 in his fifth game before completing the sectional with a 186 in his sixth game.

Jarrett and Primdahl advanced to the sectional with their strong efforts at the Naperville Central Regional at Lisle Lanes on Jan. 14.

Warriors secure first conference victory

After beating the Hornets and losing to the Blazers, Willowbrook ends week with a non-conference win at Glenbard East

STAFF REPORT

The Willowbrook boys basketball team earned its first West Suburban Gold Conference victory of the season last week. The Warriors, who lost their first four conference games of the season, improved to 1-4 in West Suburban Gold action with a 67-56 win at Hinsdale South on Jan. 17.

Willowbrook fell to 1-5 in conference play following Friday’s 58-56 loss at Addison Trail. The Warriors finished their week with Saturday’s convincing 88-63 non-conference win at Glenbard East in Lombard.

Willowbrook moved its overall season record to 6-13 with Saturday’s win over the Rams.

The Warriors held a 15-10 lead through one quarter of last week’s win at Hinsdale South. Willowbrook outscored the Hornets 22-11 in the second quarter to build a 37-21 halftime lead. The Hornets rallied to cut the Warriors’ lead to 51-42 by the end of the third quarter.

Senior Noah Campbell scored a team-high 21 points for the Warriors in last week’s conference victory over Hinsdale South. Campbell made six field goals, including one shot from behind the 3-point line. He also sank all eight of his attempts from the free-throw line.

Senior Isaac Sobieszczyk provided 15 points and 15 rebounds in Willowbrook’s win over the Hornets. Sobieszczyk sank seven of nine free throws for the Warriors, who made 17 of 19 free throws during the game.

Junior Kenyon Rhodes made four of seven attempts from 3-point range to provide 12 points for the Warriors

Willowbrook avenges an overtime loss at Addison Trail in December

STAFF REPORT

The Willowbrook girls basketball team won one of three games last week. The Warriors, who played all three contests on their home court, opened the week with a 55-32 West Suburban Gold Conference victory over Addison Trail on Jan. 17. One night later, the Warriors lost 62-31 to York in a non-conference contest. Willowbrook finished its week with Saturday’s 43-37 conference loss to Hinsdale South.

The Warriors ended the week with an overall season record of 11-11 and a conference mark of 6-3.

Willowbrook led Addison Trail 16-8 through one quarter of last week’s battle. The Warriors pushed their lead to 30-17 by halftime. Willowbrook’s lead grew to 43-24 by the end of the third quarter.

Junior Elle Bruschuk scored 14 points and pulled down eight rebounds for the Warriors in last week’s win over the Blazers. Seniors Nina Nytko and Sara Stout scored nine points each. Senior Rimon Kari added eight points.

Bruschuk made two of four 3-point attempts against Addison Trail. Nytko converted two of three shots from behind the 3-point line, while Kari sank two of six shots from 3-point range.

Sophomore Halie Ahrens scored five points for the Warriors in last week’s win over the Blazers. Senior Yazmin Setaram and junior Tia Kelly contributed four points each.

Earlier in the season, the Warriors dropped a 46-44 overtime battle to the Blazers in the two teams’ conference battle in Addison on Dec. 3.

Senior Elena Papanicolaou made three 3-point shots and scored a team-leading 13 points for the Blazers in last week’s battle in Villa Park. Papanicolaou connected on six 3-point shots and scored 28 points to lead Addison Trail to its overtime win over the Warriors in December.

in their victory at Hinsdale South. Senior Joey Tumilty added nine points, while seniors Luke Davis and Tyler Royal contributed five points each.

Willowbrook struggled to make shots in Friday evening’s conference battle at District 88 rival Addison Trail. The Warriors made four of 24 shots from 3-point range. Willowbrook sank eight of 18 attempts from the free-throw line.

The Warriors led the Blazers 1513 after one quarter and 27-26 at halftime. The two teams were tied at 41-41 at the end of the third quarter.

Trailing 58-56 in the game’s closing seconds, the Warriors missed a 3-point attempt. Willowbrook grabbed the offensive rebound and attempted and missed an inside shot that could have sent the game into overtime. Some Warriors fans wanted a foul called on the Blazers on Willowbrook’s last-second shot, but the officials did not oblige.

Campbell scored a team-leading 21 points for the Warriors in Friday’s loss in Addison. He made eight of 23 field-goal attempts, sinking one of nine shots from 3-point range. Campbell converted four of six shots from the free-throw line.

Sobieszczyk scored 10 points and grabbed 15 rebounds in Friday’s loss. Davis contributed eight points. Tumilty and junior Andrew Ciesinski scored six points each.

Senior Joey Morales scored 20 points and snared 10 rebounds to lead Addison Trail to Friday’s win over Willowbrook. Sophomore Luke

Willowbrook couldn’t keep pace with York’s talented team in last week’s non-conference game in Villa Park. The Dukes led the Warriors 18-10 after one quarter. York outscored Willowbrook 19-4 in the second quarter to push its halftime lead to 37-14. The Dukes owned a 56-

Willowbrook’s girls basketball team faced Hinsdale South in Saturday’s West Suburban Gold Conference game in Villa Park. The visiting Hornets edged the Warriors 43-37. Willowbrook dropped to 11-11 overall and 6-3 in conference play with the loss. Senior Rimon Kari (No. 30) scored eight points for the Warriors in Saturday’s battle. Senior Sara Stout (No. 15) provided seven points for Willowbrook, which honored its seniors before the game. Willowbrook opened its conference season with an overtime loss at Hinsdale South on Nov. 29. The Warriors’ season continues with four games this week.

Warriors head to state meet

The Willowbrook High School dance team

dance state meet with its

tional’s 2A-2 level, the Warriors

state meet by

in sectional’s 2A-2 division. DeKalb finished second, while Argo and Jones College Prep of Chicago placed third and fourth, respectively. Kenwood Academy of Chicago secured a state-meet berth with its sixth-place finish. The state meet takes place this Friday and Saturday at Grossinger Motors Arena in Bloomington. One year ago, Willowbrook finished ninth in its division at the 2022 IHSA state meet.

CHRIS FOX PHOTOS

Rock Valley Publishing

CHRIS FOX PHOTO Rock Valley Publishing

earned a berth in the upcoming IHSA competitive

performance at Saturday’s Geneva Sectional. Competing in the sec-

placed fifth in a field of 13 teams. Willowbrook earned a trip to the

placing among the top six teams in its level. Whitney Young won the sectional title

PROGRAM DETAILS

Serving children ages 2-6 years old

4’s Classroom 8:15-11:45am MWF or M-F

3’s Classroom 8:15-11:45am MWF or M-F

2’s Classroom 8:15-11:45am T/Th Full Day Enrichment available for 3’s and 4’s from 8:15am-2:45pm

OUR PROGRAM

Mary Queen of Heaven Preschool, in partnership with families and the loving support of our parish community, offers an early childhood program for children ages 2-6 years of age. We provide an educational experience that honors differences and focuses on the strengths and goodness of each child. Kids are encouraged to make choices, develop their talents, and understand the role God plays in the world around them. Children are free to play, explore, and imagine in our child-focused, and family sensitive environment that develops caring relationships with all those around us with love, justice, peace, and service. All are welcome!

Children do not need to be potty-trained to attend our 2’s classroom.

MQH works with families, to ensure children utilizing Madison school, eat lunch and are picked up safely. Call or email

Addison-Villa Park-Bensenville happenings

Celebrate Valentine’s Day Feb. 7

Addison

Winter wonderland dance party Jan. 27

On Friday, Jan. 27 from 10-10:30 a.m. at the Addison Public Library, little ones are invited to join Innovation Arts Connection to discover the magic of imaginative play with singing, exploration, and learning new dance skills. We’ll explore multiple styles of dance and read a winter story together. Wear comfortable clothing and dance shoes if you have them.

Movement stations Feb. 3

On Friday, Feb. 3 from 10 a.m.-12 noon, the Addison Public Library will host a program for little ones in the Children’s Department. Practice yoga moves, walk the balance beam, or move across some steppingstones. There will also be new toys to try. No registration required.

On Tuesday, Feb. 7 from 6-7 p.m. at the Addison Public Library, join Ellie Presents and learn all about Valentine’s Day in this interactive program for children. Ellie will tell us all about the history of Valentine’s Day, who St. Valentine really was, and much more. All participants will also make their very own valentine. Open to all ages with caregivers. Co-presented with the Addison Historical Society. Info: addisonlibrary.org/ events or call 630-543-3617.

Valentine’s Dance Feb. 10

On Friday, Feb. 10 from 6:30-8:30 p.m., parents and guardians of those ages 3 and older are invited to dress up and come to a sweetheart dance at the Community Recreation Center, 120 E. Oak St. Dinner and refreshments will be provided as well as a commemorative photo. Fee: $15R/$20NR per person. To register, go to addisonparks. org and use Code 602811.

Bensenville Park District presents ‘Sweetheart Ball’ for dads and daughters Feb. 4

On Saturday, Feb. 4 from 6-8 p.m., dads and their daughters are invited to attend the Sweetheart. Ball at White Pines Golf Club, 500 W. Jefferson St. Have a sweet time at this annual candy-themed event, which features an evening including dinner (choice of chicken fingers, chicken breast or vegetarian pasta), dancing, entertainment, and a sweets table. Register at the Deer Grove Leisure Center by Monday, Jan. 30. Tickets are $25R/$30NR per person. Ages 2 and under free. Info: bvilleparks.org.

Park District hosts

“Senior” prom Feb. 5

The 50+ Young-at-Heart crowd is invited to relive their high school glory days at White Pines Golf Club’s senior prom dance on Sunday, Feb. 5 from 3-6 p.m. The resident registration fee is $15 per person or $25 per couple (add $5 for non-residents) an includes a chicken dinner, dancing and assorted sweets. A cash bar will be available. Register at the Deer Grove Leisure Center. Info: bvilleparks.org.

Hand & Foot Game Fridays

On Fridays from 12:30-4 p.m., the Bensenville Park District offers a game called Hand & Foot at the Deer Grove Leisure Center, 1000 W. Wood Ave. Hand & Foot is a card game for 4-8 players at a table. The object of the game is to get rid of cards from your hand pile and then from your foot pile. The group will help newcomers learn the game. This event is free and registration is not necessary. It is important to arrive on time as partners and tables are determined at the beginning. Info: bvilleparks.org.

Library seeks donations to local history

On Tuesday, Jan. 31, the Bensenville Public Library is hosting ‘Scanning Day’ for you to share your Bensenville history for the Illinois digital archives. Make an appointment with the digital librarian and archivist Elizabeth Morris to scan and add your photos and documents about Bensenville history to the Bensenville Historical collection in the Illinois Digital Archives. Up to 25 items can

be donated for scanning and must be about Bensenville history. Stories, people, places, events, and dates will be gathered for the archives to bring your donation to life. Registration is required. Please make an appointment on the library’s online calendar at benlib.evanced.info or contact Elizabeth at (630) 766-4642 or emorris@benlib.org for other available appointment times. This event is free.

After-School gaming Jan. 31

Tuesday, Jan. 31 from 2:30-4 p.m., ages 10-and-older are invited to the Bensenville Community Public Library for some gaming fun on the library’s Nintendo Switch . Play Mario Kart, Mario Party, and more. Registration is not required to attend, but space is limited and available on a first-come, firstserved basis. Info: benlib.evanced.info.

Villa Park

Library hosts virtual program with Kwame Alexander Feb. 8

Villa Park Public Library is joining libraries across the state of Illinois to host best-selling and award-winning children’s and young adult author and poet Kwame Alexander. Presented by Illinois Libraries Present, the event will be held virtually via Zoom on Wednesday, Feb. 8 from 7-8 p.m. Alexander is a poet, educator, publisher, and New York Times bestselling author of 36 books, including the Newbery Award winning book The Crossover , the Newbery Honor/Caldecott Medal winning book The Undefeated , and most recently An American Story . At this Illinois Libraries Info: www. vppl.info or call 630-834-1164. Note that this program will not be recorded for future viewing.

Valentine’s Day Craft Open House Feb. 11 and Feb. 12

The Villa Park Public Library will hold a Valentine’s Day Craft Open House on Friday, Feb. 10 and Saturday, Feb. 11 from 2-4 p.m. Children of all ages are invited celebrate sweethearts with a fun craft project. Young children will need some adult help. Registration is not required but supplies are limited. Info: www.vppl.info or call 630-834-1164.

WEDNESDAYS

FRIDAYS

THURSDAYS

Can’t-miss events throughout DuPage County

Editor’s note: Our next DuPage Destinations section will be published Thursday, Feb. 9. If you have information on an event in DuPage County taking place after Feb. 9 that you would like us to consider listing here, please email that information to: news1@rvpublishing.com

Ongoing North Suburban Carvers meetings

The North Suburban Carvers meet on the first and third Mondays of each month at the Wood Dale Public Library from 6:30-8:30 p.m. Anyone interested in carving, power carving, wood burning or special finishing techniques is welcome. North Suburban Carvers is a non-profit organization that promotes carving in the Chicago area. For more information, visit: northsurburbancarvers.com

Now through Jan. 29 Downtown Wheaton Restaurant Week

Recurring daily in downtown Wheaton, order up and join in for this week-long celebration of the vibrant downtown Wheaton culinary scene. From special menu offerings to discounts and even charitable givebacks, this is the perfect opportunity to try a new restaurant or visit one of your local favorites. For more information, visit: www.downtownwheaton.com/restaurantweek

7th annual Westmont Restaurant Week

Presented by the Westmont Chamber of Commerce and Tourism Bureau, this experience will truly show how you can dine around the world in Westmont. This popular event features a mix of fixed priced menu options (excluding beverages, tax and gratuity), specials and discounts. So loosen your belts, order for pick-up, curbside, or delivery and enjoy the many tasty experiences awaiting you in Westmont. For more information, visit: www.westmontchamber.com/ wrw_pre.html

Now through Feb. 5

Chinese Lunar New Year, Rosemont

Recurring daily at the Fashion Outlets of Chicago, 5220 Fashion Outlets Way, Suite 230, Rosemont, The 16-day celebration will feature robust programming and exclusive offers at participating retailers for shoppers to enjoy. Visit Concierge Services on Level One, near Saks Fifth 5TH, and receive a special red envelope featuring a free saving pass and special Lunar New Year offers and services from participating retailers. For more information, visit: www.fashionoutletsofchicago.com/ Events/Details/556642

Now through Feb. 21

Brews and Painting, Itasca Jan. 31, and Feb. 14 and 21, at

Church Street Brewing Company, 1480 Industrial Drive C, save the dates and plan a fun evening in the taproom with your friends. This isn’t an art class but experience some tricks on making your painting a work of art. Visit the website for more details about each individual date. https://www.paintnite.com/ venue-owners/church-street-brewing-company

Now through Feb. 25

Polar Plaza Ice Skating Rink, Glen Ellyn

From noon-9 p.m. daily in the Crescent Parking Lot, 551 Crescent Blvd., the Polar Plaza synthetic ice-skating rink and curling lanes in downtown Glen Ellyn is now available during the winter season. The Polar Plaza occupies a portion of the Village of Glen Ellyn Crescent parking lot, just west of Main Street. For more information, visit: https:// gepark.org/polar-plaza/

Now through Feb. 26

Tubing at Mount Hoy, Warrenville From 10 a.m.-4 p.m. at Blackwell Forest Preserve, Butterfield Road, weather permitting, take a thrilling 800-foot ride down the Mount Hoy tubing hill. It’s open on weekends and school holidays when there’s plenty of snow (usually more than 3 inches). Rentals end at 3:30 p.m., although the hill may close early due to

extreme cold or severe weather. Inner tube rentals are at the base of the hill. Price: $10 per day per person. Pay with cash or credit card. Only district inner tubes are allowed. For more information, visit: www.dupageforest.org/things-to-do/get-outdoors/winter-in-preserves

Now through March 25

Stories of DuPage: Reading

Between the Lines Exhibit, Wheaton Tuesdays through Fridays, 10:30 a.m.-4 p.m., and Saturdays, noon-4 p.m. at the DuPage County Historical Museum, 102 E. Wesley St., several DuPage County residents have penned nationally regarded novels and other fictional works, such as “Anna and the King of Siam” and the “Little Orphan Annie” comic strip. Stories of DuPage explores the lives and careers of these authors, examining how their DuPage roots shaped the stories they told. Admission is free, but donations are appreciated. For more information, visit: https:// dupagemuseum.org/collections-exhibits/

Saturday, Jan. 28 8-year anniversary party, Noon Whistle Brewing, Lombard and Naperville

Starting at 11 a.m. at Noon Whistle Brewing, 1748 W. Jefferson Ave., Naperville and 800 E. Roosevelt Road, Lombard, join us at either the Lombard Brewpub or the Naperville tasting room and celebrate 8 years of beer. For more information, visit: www.noonwhistlebrewing. com/8-year-anniversary-party

Saturday, Jan. 28 and Sunday, Jan. 29

Elmhurst Symphony Orchestra’s Concertofest, Hinsdale and Elmhurst

Starting at 2:30 p.m. Saturday at Union Church of Hinsdale, 137 S. Garfield St., and at 3 p.m. Sunday at Elmhurst Christian Reformed Church, 149 W. Brush Hill Road, Elmhurst, if you’re looking to be dazzled at every turn, this is the concert for you. A concerto (pronounced con-CHAIR-toe) is a piece of music written for soloist(s) accompanied by an orchestra or other ensemble. Basically, it’s a chance for a virtuoso musician to show off what they can do while the rest of the orchestra backs them up, and thus ConcertoFest.is packed with virtuoso soloists. General admission: $35, $32 for seniors. For more information, visit: https://

elmhurstsymphony.org/event/concertofest

Wednesday,

Feb. 1

Valentine’s Day Painting Night, Downers Grove

From 3-10 p.m. at Alter Brewing Company, 2300 Wisconsin Ave., Suite 213, we’re switching things up with paint nights in 2023. Our amazing Amy is bringing awesome new kits for you to paint and build. Our first one of the year features cute little snowmen with hearts. Each guest will receive all the pieces and supplies needed to assemble and paint two snow people. Tickets are $16 for children, $22 for adults. For more information, visit: https:// www.eventbrite.com/e/valentines-painting-night-at-alter-brewing-company-tickets-511136943357

Thursday,

Feb. 2 through Sunday, Feb. 5

Frosty Faustings, Lombard

At the Westin, 70 Yorktown, Frosty Faustings is one of the largest celebrations of fighting games and open bracket tournaments in the country. They strive to give competitors the best tournament experience possible. The event focuses on Guilty Gear and other anime titles but also features all the latest major titles, fan favorites, classic legacy titles, and Chicago’s famous mystery tournament. It’s two days of tournaments, but a four-day event. For more information, visit: https:// frostyfaustings.com

Friday, Feb. 3 through Sunday, Feb. 5

Ice Festival, Downers Grove

Join in the fun at the annual Ice Festival in downtown Downers Grove. Enjoy live ice carving demonstrations at the Main Street Train Station. The Ice Festival is free to attend. Make sure to stop in and support your favorite boutiques, cafes, and restaurants. For more information, visit: https://www.downtowndg.org/

Saturday, Feb. 4

Winter Fair, Lombard

From 1:30-4 p.m. at Sunset Knoll Recreation Center, 820 S. Finley Road, enjoy an afternoon of frozen winter fun. Be sure to bundle up because this indoor/outdoor event is full of hot chocolate, games, crafts and more. For more information, visit: https://lombardparks.com/

Rep. Bob Morgan, a Democrat from Deerfield and a supporter of the assault weapon ban, on a talk last week sarcastically accused gun shop owners of being “constitutional scholars.” He also accused county sheriffs who said they will not enforce the law as being unconstitutional of “posturing,” and that it is their duty to uphold the law. Oh, like law enforcement who aren’t allowed to detain illegals who sneak into our country? Morgan said more needs to be done to prevent gun violence, like preventive mental health care, but if a gunman (or woman) doesn’t think there is a problem or refuses help, there is not much the mental health system can do. He mentioned holding gun manufacturers responsible for crimes committed with their firearms, but that’s like holding liquor manufacturers responsible if someone buys alcohol in a store, then drives drunk and injures or kills someone. The constitutionality issue needs to be settled in court. Someone bent on causing harm will find a way to get any kind of weapon, so these laws trying to be proactive are pretty ineffective.

* * *

Whether I agree with the gun registration legislation or not—and believe the constitutionality should be determined by the courts—the fact that the sheriffs are cherry-picking whether to uphold this law is disconcerting to me. I understand the rationale, but if or until the law is deemed unconstitutional and then revoked, it is their sworn duty to uphold that

law. That is why they are called officers “of the law.” On the other hand, officers of the law are not able to uphold immigration laws that would either keep illegals from entering the country, or make sure they are sent back once here. Shaking my head.

* * *

Washington spends more time fighting the left against the right across the aisle than they do to our adversaries across the pond. Make them scramble the seating arrangement in the House and Senate and get rid of their gang mentality to work as a team for our country instead.

* * *

Last month, all but two Congressional Democrats voted against a bill that mandated medical care for infants born alive after a botched abortion. That is truly demented. What is wrong with you Democrats?

* * *

Tidy or trashy? Litter creates such a strong impression of a community. I pick up what I can on my daily walks, and usually find a public trash can nearby. Please look around you, and throw away the litter. This small act makes a big difference, and we all benefit.

* * *

Don’t you wish the banks would keep the ATM machines full of money? I went to four of them today and all said “insufficient funds”!

* * *

Trump nicknamed the Select Committee as the Unselect Committee. To reciprocate his display of respect, I, with powers not presented to me by

• Warriors beat Blazers

27 advantage at the end of the third quarter.

Stout scored a team-high 12 points for the Warriors in last week’s loss to York. Nytko added nine points, while Kari contributed five points.

The Warriors led Hinsdale South 12-10 through one quarter of Saturday’s conference game. The two teams were tied at 21-21 at halftime in the rematch of their Nov. 29 meeting in Darien. The Hornets won that battle, prevailing 60-53 in overtime in that contest, which was the conference opener for both teams.

Willowbrook and Hinsdale South were tied at 25-25 in the third quarter of Saturday’s game. The Hornets then made a pair of 3-point shots to take a 31-25 lead. Hinsdale South added a 3-point play to extend its lead to 34-25. The Hornets led the Warriors 35-29 at the end of the third quarter.

any earthly or heavenly entity, do hereby rename Trump, for now and evermore, as Unpresident Trump. God knows this name is more fitting.

* * *

I, for one, strongly support the DuPage County sheriff in his stand against an unconstitutional law that was implemented by uninformed politicians that like to grandstand. I am sorry and pray for those who lost loved ones in mass shootings, but we need to address mental illness before bans. You can take away arms from law-abiding citizens, but history will show you many adverse outcomes for the people. Divert money to streamlining and background checks in the purchase process instead of new bathrooms or warping a young child’s mind. Criminals will not stop buying or shooting because of these bans.

* * *

Harry Truman: The buck stops here. Joe Biden: I have no idea how classified materials wound up in my house, and I don’t know what those materials are.

* * *

It’s almost funny to hear the hypocrisy of mayors of so-called sanctuary cities. They pat themselves on the back and say they welcome migrants who entered the country illegally. But when those migrants show up, these mayors whine that their resources are overwhelmed.

* * *

As the new year is beginning, I thought I’d share a quote I recently found accredited to Mark Twain.

“It’s easy to fool people, but it’s almost impossible to convince peo-

• Victory

ple they have been fooled.” Here is another quote for an example: “The greatest fear in D.C. is that an executive branch, controlled by the establishment, will lead to the exposure of the corruption that has become the foundation of our government. This is the real reason Trump is under attack.” Those in the most danger are compelled to encourage hate to anyone who’s willing to believe and to stifle the speech of anyone who questions. A commentary was made on the news that Biden has not been hated like Trump. Why do you think this might be? Is he more lovable and honest? Are those who didn’t vote for more tolerant of others or are they suppressed by the opposition? We need to start exposing ourselves to the information and decide for ourselves if we have been fooled. Then, believe what we must. Wouldn’t it be a happier new year if logical thinkers and emotional reactionists could find common ground with neither being fooled?

* * *

This call is about the semi-automatic weapons ban in place. Pritzker and Lightfoot and the rest of the Democrats destroyed the city of Chicago. Crime is rampant. You take away our weapons and guess what? It’s going to be like the city of Chicago out here. Now, if the Democrats get their way, the entire state of Illinois will be like Chicago; a war zone. And guess what? We’re not going to have that. People, use your brains. You see something, say something. And stand behind your local police department and help them out. Because all the Democrats are going to do is

(Continued from page 8)

Smith, who made three 3-point shots, supplied 13 points. Senior Charles Little scored nine points. Senior Joey Verbena and junior Cesar Alvarez scored six points each for the Blazers, who improved to 1-6 in conference play with their win over the Warriors.

Willowbrook’s offense was in high gear during Saturday’s game at Glenbard East. Campbell, who was nursing an injury, did not play against the Rams. Sobieszczyk led the Warriors’ offensive attack by scoring a career-high 31 points. Sobieszczyk scored 12 baskets and made all seven of his free-throw attempts in Saturday’s win in Lombard. He scored 23 points during the first half. Sobieszczyk also grabbed 10 rebounds in the victory over the Rams.

put us in a hole like they did with the economy. And look at Biden; he just got caught for the same thing Trump did with the missing records, so you Democrats, you’re on your way. And by the way, on the topic of sanctuary cities: if you want them so badly, put them in your neighborhood. Oh, that’s right. You don’t want them. So now you’re moving them to the suburbs, too. I don’t understand Democrats and never will. Please don’t vote for them again. Thank you.

* * *

Per the president’s favorite phrase, “Guess what?” I’m guessing if politicians stop calling people racist, things might change You can’t keep picking a scab and expect anything to heal. Instead of using the “R” word, try results. Thank you.

* * *

Hello Sheriff Mendrick. Well, I guess we can’t call you Old Law and Order anymore, right? Hey no matter what your party, if you’re not going to enforce the law, then it’s time for a change. Time for a new sheriff in town. Bye-bye.

* * *

Hi. In his first day in office, Biden said open the borders and everyone’s welcome. Now they’re taking American taxpayer dollars to pay for food, lodging and everything for the migrants. Does that seem right to you? Then they’re talking about giving Social Security to the migrants. They didn’t pay in. Why should they get money back? Our tax dollars are being poorly invested. And a second thing Biden did: he shut the Keystone Pipeline down. Thanks for the condition of the world we’re in. Bye.

Willowbrook led Glenbard East 23-16 after one quarter and 46-34 at halftime. The Warriors’ lead grew to 6846 by the end of the third quarter.

Davis made three 3-point shots and scored 20 points in Saturday’s win. Rhodes drained four 3-point attempts and provided 16 points.

The Warriors’ schedule this week includes a non-conference game at Hinsdale Central, along with this Friday’s conference home game against Morton. Willowbrook will finish the week with Saturday’s non-conference contest at Deerfield.

Hinsdale South led Willowbrook 41-33 with less than three minutes to play. Baskets from Stout and Bruschuk reduced the Hornets’ lead to 41-37 with less than two minutes remaining. The Hornets scored the game’s final points by making a pair of free throws with 31.1 seconds on the clock.

Bruschuk scored a team-leading 10 points for the Warriors in Saturday’s loss to the Hornets. She also provided nine rebounds. Kari scored eight points, while Stout and Nytko delivered seven points each. Senior Yazmin Setaram supplied four points.

The Warriors’ season continues with this week’s non-conference contests at Fenwick and Maine South, along with this Friday’s conference clash at Morton. Willowbrook will finish the week with Saturday’s non-conference home game against Libertyville.

CHRIS FOX PHOTOS Rock Valley Publishing

Willowbrook’s boys basketball team posted a convincing 88-63 non-conference victory over Glenbard East on Saturday in Lombard. The Warriors improved their overall season record to 6-13 with the win. Senior Isaac Sobieszczyk (No. 15) scored a career-high 31 points for Willowbrook in Saturday’s win. He also provided 10 rebounds. Senior Tyler Royal (No. 3) of the Warriors is pictured while making an acrobatic basket during the third quarter. Royal scored four points in the game.

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!

CLUES ACROSS

Sea grape

European public health group (abbr.)

A way to delight

Ancient heralds’ wands

Make a booking

‘__ death do us part

Pearl Jam frontman

Spider genus

Fill with high spirits

A major division of geological time

Catch

An independent ruler or chieftain

Electronic music style (abbr.)

Influential Spanish cubist painter

Illegally persuades

A way to derive

British School

Appear alongside

Surely (archaic)

Harsh cry of a crow

A day in the middle

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Collectible glassware, crocks, bowls, jugs. Christmas decorations, linens, handmade quilts, rolling pin collection, bedroom set, lamps, kerosene lamps, collectible vases, small tables, craft items, antique books, kitchen items, small kitchen appliances, antique chest, irobot vacuum, massage chair pad, walker, library table, quilting supplies, thimble collection, small kitchen table, craft items, sewing machine and so much more. No pre-sales. Accepting cash or venmo only.

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

EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY

in order to connect small businesses with local suppliers who need them, as well as educational opportunities.

Like a role she played in her time as a State Representative, Conroy pledged to make mental illness and substance addiction to be among her top priorities. In Springfield, the Vil-

la

“There is no blanket solution for this issue,” she said. “Every community faces a different set of circumstances and it will require the collaboration of experts from many fields to find the right plan of attack.”

16 state representatives, senators: DuPage County sheriff ‘has no authority to determine the constitutionality of a law’

Editor’s note: The following open letter, signed by 16 area state representatives and senators, opposes DuPage County Sheriff James Mendrick’s Jan. 13 statement that neither he, nor his office, will check to ensure that lawful gun owners register their weapons with the state—nor will his office arrest or house law-abiding individuals that have been arrested solely with non-compliance of H.B. 5471.

To the people of DuPage County:

We are the 16 Illinois State Senators and Representatives that represent the overwhelming majority of you and your families in DuPage County.

Like so many concerned individuals who have contacted us in recent days, we are dismayed and angered by the recent pronouncement by the DuPage County Sheriff to unilaterally direct his office to flout and disregard the duly passed and signed Protect Illinois Communities Act.

The sheriff has no authority to determine the constitutionality of a law; that is up to the courts. Nor can he pick and choose which laws to enforce; he must enforce them all.

This bipartisan law was the product of hundreds of hours of negotiations and advocacy from across our shared community and constituents. It will fight the senseless barrage of gun violence that has plagued our state for

far too long.

By banning the sale and distribution of assault weapons, high-capacity ammunition magazines, and switches in Illinois, the Act makes our schools, neighborhoods, parades, grocery stores, and workplaces safer from the gun violence that is a threat to our wellbeing everywhere.

The DuPage County Sheriff’s intention to violate his sworn duty to uphold our state’s laws is a dereliction of duty and puts our safety at risk. The sheriff’s words send a clear message that lawbreakers are welcome here. Should any related tragedy occur within our borders, not only will he bear responsibility for the resulting and everlasting scars upon our community, but he also will put our livelihoods and property tax dollars at risk, as his declaration now opens us up to financial liability.

Please know that even if the DuPage County sheriff will not do his job to protect you, we as your Illinois Senators and Representatives are already doing so with the full weight of our offices. We are working closely with the Illinois State Police, the Governor’s Office, the Attorney General, and additional levels of state and local government and law enforcement to ensure that we will fill the void left when the sheriff abandoned his duty to protect our community.

We will never abandon the constituents that we have sworn to serve, not only in DuPage County, but for the whole state.

Sincerely, Sen. Laura Ellman, 21st District Sen. Laura Murphy, 28th District

Sen. Suzy Glowiak Hilton, 23rd District

Sen. Rachel Ventura, 43rd District

Sen. Karina Villa, 25th District Rep. Dagmara Avelar, 85th District

Rep. Diane Blair-Sherlock, 46th District

Rep. Terra Costa Howard, 42nd District

Rep. Barbara Hernandez, 50th District

Rep. Norma Hernandez, 77th District

Rep. Maura Hirschauer, 49th District

Rep. Stephanie Kifowit, 84th District

Rep. Jenn Ladisch Douglass, 45th District Rep. Michelle Mussman, 56th District

Rep. Anne Stava-Murray, 81st District

Rep. Janet Yang Rohr, 41st District

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

Park Democrat served as Chair of the House Mental Health committee.

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.

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