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Rock Valley Publishing

Thursday, Dec. 14, 2023

Villa Park

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THURSDAY, MAY 13, 2021 THURSDAY, MAY 6,2023 2021 THURSDAY, DEC. 14, THURSDAY, MAY 27, 2021 THURSDAY, JUNE 3, 2021

CHRIS FOX PHOTOS Villa Park Review

Willowbrook students’ art on display

Graduation day Play at the plate at Willowbrook

Willowbrook High School hosted an opening reception last week for the school’s Student Art Show at Villa Park’s Funky Java Coffee House, which is located at 40 S. Villa Ave. The event featured over 100 pieces of art in various media created by more than 70 Willowbrook Freshman Lindsey Rugg of the Willowbrook softball team is pictured while atstudents. The exhibit was on display throughout last tempting to score a run during Friday’s game at Downers Grove South. Rugg tried week. Funky Java Coffee House owner Larry Poggi beto score from second base on a single by sophomore Katelyn Cox in the top of gan hosting a December art show featuring Willowbrook the second inning, the game tiedcelebrated at 2-2. Downers Grove South’swith catcher Willowbrook Highwhen School’s Class was of 2021 its commencement two students’ creations about 15 years ago. Senior Lauren tagged Rugg out at home for the third out of theon inning.

Themorning.

Mustangs separate ceremonies in theplate school’s main gymnasium Sunday Thewent enCarson (top middle) and junior Nina Young (above) are on to defeat the Warriors 7-3students. in the West Suburban Conference contest. Wiltire class includes over 470 About half ofGold those students attended the pictured in front of their pieces.

CHRIS FOX PHOTO Villa Park Review

lowbrook rebounded from Friday’s loss to(above) post anfrom 11-2the winopening in Saturday’s game at One photo reception shows Hinsdale Central. The Warriors bashed three homeAnnabelle runs in theThompson second inning of Sat-toWillowbrook senior pointing CHRIS FOX PHOTO Villa ParkSilver Review urday’s non-conference battle against the Red Devils of the West Suburban ward her drawing.

Conference.

Senior Knudtson, freshman Isabella Dugo and that sophomore ceremony that beganAnnemarie at 9 a.m. The others in the ceremony started One more participated photo (left) from the event shows Poggi Kayleigh the with home runs.

Dennison (No. 5) is pictured in the at 11 a.m. Dennison The photoprovided shows members of the Willowbrook Senior Choir performing (left) District 88 Superintendent Jean Barbanente background of the above photo. more aboutsee thePage Warriors, during the day’s first service.

ForFor more photos, 4. see page 14. (right).

Arbor Day in Villa Park

..........6 14 Police Reports Reports ..........8 Gift Sports ....................17 16 Police ..........8 Sports ....................

Opinion. ...................4 Guide.........11-14 Legal Notices ......... 15 Sports................18-20 Classifieds..............13 Viewpoint ................6 Classifieds..........17-18 Viewpoint ................6 Classifieds..............16 Police.......................8

Memorial Day in Villa Park KATE DRURY KATE DRURY

The Village of Villa Park observed Arbor Day with a tree planting on Friday, April 30. Pictured (left to right) at the tree planting at the village’s Franklin Park, located at 218 N. Third Ave., are: Villa Park Village your local agent 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, Contact me forVilla a 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 630-514-9961 Villa complementary Park Veterans of Foreign Warson (VFW) Post 2801 of held itsApril.

Memorial Day service onDay Monday mornCommission.

Arbor Day is observed the last Friday each The National Arbor Foundation 630-514-9961 ing at Cortesi Veterans Memorial Park.

Post Commander Jim Blankshain is pictured bowingthat his recognihead as kdrury@atproperties.com has recognized Villaanalysis Park with Tree City USA designation for 36 straight years.

To receive market Willowbrook High School students Hendrickson and a Anna Seelbach soundataps at the end ofcomthe kdrury@atproperties.com tion, a community must have a tree Lily board or department, tree-care ordinance, comprehensive ofThe your home!!

Kate Drury ceremony. post’s 2020and Memorial Day event was canceled because of the COVID-19 pandemic. This munity forestry program an Arbor Day observance.

630.514.9961 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 kdrury@atproperties.com I would to help! of the post’s annual Memorial Day service for several years. A veteran of the U.S. Navy, Bergh died in LoveVillaPark.com October 2020. He was 94 years old. Bergh was the post’s last surviving World War II veteran.

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Federal judge sets trial date for State Sen. Tom Cullerton--Page 4

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CHRIS FOX PHOTO Villa Park Review SUBMITTED PHOTO Villa Park 390271 Review

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Rock Valley Publishing

Thursday, Dec. 14, 2023

State’s motion to deny pre-trial release granted for convicted felon facing multiple gun and drug offenses Lombard police apprehend suspect; Villa Park, Oakbrook Terrace police provide assistance

DuPage County State’s Attorney Robert Berlin and Lombard Chief of Police Tom Wirsing have announced that Judge Joshua Dieden granted the state’s motion to deny pre-trial release for a convicted felon from Chicago charged with multiple gun and drug offenses.

Denzel Guajardo-Ross, 30, appeared at First Appearance Court and is charged with one count of armed habitual criminal (Class X felony), one count of armed violence (Class X felony), one count of manufacture/delivery of a controlled substance—cocaine (Class X felony), one count of unlawful possession of a controlled substance—cocaine (Class 1 felony), one count of aggravated unlawful use of a weapon (Class 2 felony), one count of unlawful use/possession of a weapon by a felon (Class 3 felony) and one count of aggravated fleeing and eluding (Class 4

felony).

On Dec. 6 at approximately 3:30 p.m., an officer with the Lombard Police Department responded to a call regarding a blue Ford that had allegedly dis- Denzel Guajardoobeyed a red Ross light and had heavy front-end damage that was parked near the Zenleaf dispensary located in the 700 block of Butterfield Road.

It is alleged that the driver of the Ford, later identified as Guajardo-Ross, exited the Zenleaf dispensary, entered the Ford and exited the parking lot, at which time the officer followed behind. It is alleged that the officer observed Gua-

jardo-Ross commit a lane violation and activated her emergency lights and sirens to conduct a traffic stop.

It is alleged that instead of pulling over, Guajardo-Ross accelerated at a high rate of speed eastbound on Butterfield Road.

The officer continued pursuing the vehicle, which allegedly committed multiple traffic violations.

The officer terminated pursuit. It is alleged that after the officer ended the pursuit, she observed Guajardo-Ross attempt to drive between two eastbound vehicles on Butterfield Road at which time he crashed his car into several occupied vehicles.

It is alleged that when the officer arrived at the crash, Guajardo-Ross exited the car and fled on foot with a handgun. After a brief foot pursuit, Guajardo-Ross was taken into custody in the area of Camden Court and Butterfield Road.

When canvassing the scene, with assistance from an Oak Brook K9 officer, officers found a loaded Glock 43 9mm handgun with a fully loaded magazine approximately 50 feet away from where Guajardo-Ross was taken into custody and along the path that he took when fleeing from officers on foot.

Officers also located fifteen grams of cocaine in the center console of the Ford.

“There is no question whatsoever that under Illinois law, as a convicted felon, Denzel Guajardo-Ross is prohibited from possessing a gun,” Berlin said. “It is alleged however, that not only was Mr. Guajardo-Ross in possession of a loaded weapon, he was also found to be in possession of 15 grams of cocaine and attempted to flee from authorities at a high rate of speed on a busy street in the middle of the afternoon during the holiday shopping season

before crashing his car into other occupied vehicles. Thankfully, Mr. Guajardo-Ross’ alleged criminal activity did not cause serious physical harm to any innocent motorists or bystanders. I commend the Lombard Police Department for their outstanding work in the apprehension of the defendant in this case and for their continued efforts in keeping our communities safe. I thank the Oakbrook Terrace, Villa Park and Oak Brook police departments for their assistance.”

“We are proud of our officers’ actions in apprehending this dangerous suspect,” Wirsing said. “We would like to thank the Oak Brook, Oakbrook Terrace and Villa Park police departments for their assistance on scene.”

Guajardo-Ross’ next court appearance is scheduled Dec. 18 for arraignment in front of Judge Mia McPherson.

State health plan declares racism a public health crisis Advocacy groups say ‘Healthy Illinois 2028’ is missing key areas of focus

By Dilpreet Raju Capitol News Illinois

A new state health report pinpoints racism as a public health crisis while also noting Illinois needs to improve in the areas of maternal and infant health, mental health and substance use disorders.

The broad goals are laid out in a draft of the State Health Improvement Plan, which will be finalized and presented to the Illinois General Assembly next year. The SHIP is part of Healthy Illinois 2028, a five-year plan outlining the major public health crises the state hopes to address.

After two years of assessment and planning, Healthy Illinois 2028 prioritized five major public health issues: • Racism as a public health crisis.

• Maternal and infant health.

• Mental health and substance use disorders.

• Chronic disease.

• COVID-19 and emerging diseases.

The report found these issues consistently overlap and are all exacerbated by a lack of access to health care and wraparound services, the infrastructure of public health systems and racial inequities.

“It is essential to emphasize that disparities in health outcomes according to race/ethnicity have nothing to do with biology and everything to do with inequitable distributions of money, power and resources,” the report stated.

Several members of the public registered concern at virtual hearings last week about what was missing from the draft plan – including care plans for migrants and concrete ac-

tions to slow a rising number of overdose deaths in Illinois.

Public health advocates asked for the inclusion of data-driven responses. Previous SHIPs have included measurable goals including reducing rates of suicide and opioid overdose deaths, both of which have increased over the last decade, according to the Centers for Disease Control’s National Center for Health Statistics.

But Jennifer Epstein, deputy director of the Illinois Department of Public Health Office of Policy, Planning and Statistics emphasized to Capitol News Illinois that the report is still in draft form, and that specific metrics will be added to the plan during 2024.

Racism’s effect on health care The draft improvement plan for the first time makes a point of listing racism as an overarching public health crisis in Illinois.

“Racism is both a cross-cutting issue and a standalone priority because it is at the root of many, if not all health issues,” Illinois Public Health Institute senior program manager Janece Gough said at the hearings.

IPHI was one of the entities that contributed to the draft under the guidance of the Illinois Department of Public Health and the State Board of Health. The report was also co-authored by staff from the University of Illinois Chicago’s Policy, Practice and Prevention Research Center.

Gough said continued stigma and discrimination from health care providers are among the barriers to equitable health care.

The plan aims to address inequities by forming an appointed advisory

committee on racism in health care and building a more diverse health care workforce. This type of racism happens when health care workers hold racial biases against patients, whether intentional or not.

IPHI director Laurie Call said public health infrastructure needs serious strengthening to be ready for emerging threats, as evidenced by the COVID-19 pandemic. Climate change—and its health effects caused by air, water and land pollution—are included in those emerging threats, she said.

“We know that as climate change is expected to worsen, this will have many health consequences,” she said.

Call said eight local entities in Illinois—such as the Chicago Department of Public Health, the Peoria City/County Health Department and a Champaign school board—have already issued a formal declaration of racism as a public health crisis.

According to the American Public Health Association, 19 other states have declared racism a public health crisis, including Michigan and Wisconsin.

During a recent hearing, Angela McLemore, who worked for years in hospital administration and now serves as executive assistant to state Sen. Mattie Hunter, D-Chicago, said she was supportive of the plan’s goals, but she emphasized the state will need to dedicate resources to make them a reality.

“I like what I have seen,” McLemore said. “In order to make the goals and objectives happen, you have to spend a lot more time on implementation, planning and we need to

attach the money, manpower and materials necessary for each plan.”

Funding was a key concern for multiple other public commenters, including Creola Hampton, president of Black Leadership Advocacy Coalition for Healthcare Equity, or BLACHE, pronounced “black.”

BLACHE currently has 19 organizations in its network from the west side of Chicago down to East St. Louis.

“The unfortunate dilemma is the Illinois Department of Public Health funding is so highly racially inequitable that it perpetuates racism being a public health issue,” Hampton said.

Hampton argued that when it comes to combatting HIV and AIDS, by which Black communities have been hit the hardest, there has been little funding sent to “African American-led organizations that have the enhanced cultural competency” and “the maximum degree of effectiveness.”

“The state is going to be leading saying that racism is a public health issue,” she said. “Then the state has to be actively involved and making sure that there is equitable funding going to African American-led organizations to do the work that needs to be done to negate the inequity of health.”

In response to media questions, IDPH spokesperson Jim Leach said the agency aims to partner with Black-led organizations around the state to reduce the “historic and present-day disparities” found with HIV. “More than half of the HIV testing and risk reduction services delivered with IDPH grant funds were provided to clients who identified as Black/

African American,” Leach told Capitol News Illinois in an email.

Healthy Illinois 2028 lists an infrastructure recommendation to “de-silo funding and eliminate inequitable funding.”

Requested additions Though reducing overdose mortality was outlined as a priority goal in the previous SHIP, overdose deaths have continued to climb in Illinois.

The IDPH Opioid Data Dashboard recorded 3,261 opioid-involved overdose deaths in 2022—a new record for the state.

The SHIP draft lists broad objectives including reducing the number of emergency department visits and increasing access to health care and wraparound services. It also sets a goal to “Increase funding to support the infrastructure development of the mental health and substance use disorder system.”

Absent from the report is any mention of licensed overdose prevention sites, something many addiction researchers and advocates for those with substance use disorders support.

“We really don’t have time to lose,” Chelsea Laliberte Barnes, co-founder of the Illinois Harm Reduction and Recovery Coalition, told the panel last week.

Overdose prevention sites, which are places where people who use drugs can get clean equipment and drug samples tested, present one major evidence-based strategy to reduce overdose deaths. Illinois has none but the issue was brought forward each of the past two legislative ses-

See CRISIS, Page 6

Thursday, Dec. 14, 2023

Three Chicago women charged with burglary/retail theft from Oak Brook Ulta store

Driver faces additional charges of leading police on high-speed chase

DuPage County State’s Attorney Robert Berlin and Oak Brook Deputy Chief of Police Reid Foltyniewicz announced last week that Judge Joshua Dieden has granted the state’s motion to deny pre-trial release for a Chicago woman accused of Damonica stealing from the Oak Brook Stewart Ulta store and leading police on a high-speed chase.

Damonica Stewart, 27, appeared at First Appearance Court and is charged with one count of burglary (Class 2 felony), one count of retail theft (Class 3 felony) and two counts of aggravated fleeing and eluding (Class 4 felony).

Judge Dieden denied the state’s motion to detain pre-trial Stewart’s co-defendants, Omesha Hawkins, 28, and Onequa Hawkins, 32. Both women, from Chicago, are charged with one count of burglary (Class 2 felony) and two counts of retail theft (one Class 3 felony and one Class 4 felony).

It is alleged that on Dec. 4 at approximately 3:15 p.m., the three defendants entered the Oak Brook Ulta store located in the 2100 block of

W. 22nd St. It is alleged that the trio stole multiple items totaling more than $300 and left the store without paying for the merchandise.

It is further alleged that the women then entered a BMW and fled the area.

An Oak Brook police Omesha officer responded to the Hawkins area and located the BMW allegedly turning against a one way only sign near 22nd Street and Midwest Road. The officer activated his emergency lights and sirens and initiated pursuit of the defendants’ vehicle, allegedly driven by Stewart.

It is alleged that Stewart did not pull over and instead accelerated, reaching speeds of approximately 70 mph.

It is further alleged that as Stewart fled the officer, she drove erratically down 22nd Street weaving in and out of lanes, drove on the median at one point to pass vehicles at a stop light and drove between vehicles waiting at a stop light.

It is alleged that Stewart’s vehicle came to a stop after striking two other vehicles.

All three defendants were taken into custody at this time. Upon searching the BMW, authorities found merchandise stolen from Ulta.

“It is alleged that these three defendants helped themselves to more than Onequa three hundred dollars’ worth Hawkins of merchandise from Ulta and simply walked out the door without paying,” Berlin said. “To make matters worse, it is alleged that the driver of their getaway vehicle, Ms. Stewart, then led police on a high-speed chase in the middle of the afternoon during the busy holiday shopping season, putting the general public as well as innocent motorists at risk. I thank the Bloomingdale and Oakbrook Terrace Police Department for their assistance in this case.”

The next court appearance for all three defendants is scheduled Dec. 26 for arraignment in front of Judge Margaret O’Connell. As a condition of their release, the defendants are prohibited from entering any Ulta store.

Big picture for DuPage tourism grows New board members represent holistic goal for DuPage County’s visitor economy

The DuPage Convention & Visitors Bureau (DCVB) inducted five new members to its Board of Directors as the organization focuses on the opportunities that lie ahead for DuPage County through 2026.

New members include Mark Doles, executive director, DuPage Airport Authority; Adam Henrikson, general manager, Hyatt Lodge Oak Brook Chicago; Matt LaFond, executive director, Cantigny Park; Alicia LaVire,

vice president of marketing and guest services, The Morton Arboretum; and Jonathan Kruger, director of marketing, Science of Spirituality Meditation Center. Each new member will serve a two-year term.

DCVB’s Board of Directors consists of 26 leaders with various backgrounds working in collaboration to ensure growth and sustainability of DuPage’s visitor industry— an important sector of DuPage’s economy.

Winter concert

“What a great time right now for DuPage,” said Brett Hintz, chairman of the DCVB Board of Directors. “With hotel data showing an increase in business travel, a positive forecast for international visitation, and big events on the horizon, DuPage is primed to capitalize on market opportunities culminating with the 2026 Presidents Cup at Medinah Country Club. Thank you to our five new and 21 returning board members for their support and valu-

CHRIS FOX PHOTO Rock Valley Publishing

Willowbrook High School’s music department presented the first of three winter concerts last week. The Dec. 7 concert in the school’s auditorium featured performances from Willowbrook’s jazz bands and vocal jazz ensemble. Members of Willowbrook’s Jazz Band 1 are pictured during the concert. The second winter concert, which featured Willowbrook’s bands, took place earlier this week. The school’s winter concert series concludes with tonight’s performance, which will feature the school’s choir and orchestra, as well as its guitar ensemble.

able leadership as we keep forward momentum.”

DuPage County is the second largest generator of travel and hospitality business in Illinois, second only to Chicago. At its annual meeting held in October, DCVB released DuPage County’s 2022 visitor impact numbers, highlighting the strength of the industry and destination: tourism revenues reached $2.99 billion—surpassing the $2.86 billion generated in 2019.

Other key markers all showed growth over the prior year, with more than 25,000 tourism-related jobs (up 14.5 percent YOY), $893 million in payroll (up 15.2 percent YOY), $90 million in local tax receipts (up 28.5 percent YOY), and $208 million in state tax receipts (up 35.7 percent YOY).

“The landscape right now is unlike anything I’ve seen for DuPage,” said DCVB Executive Director Beth Marchetti. “DuPage historically was a meetings destination. The demand we experienced in 2022 helped us achieve our potential in the leisure market. Nationally, leisure is slowing to more typical levels, but our goal is to keep the gains made in this important market.

“DuPage has an unparalleled mix of amenities for leisure, meetings and events, and sports tourism. Now they all need to align moving forward and I believe we have the right mix of leadership on our Board to help us achieve that.” Marchetti said that the DCVB will remain responsive to an ever-evolving tourism environment but firm in this long-term vision for DuPage’s positioning in the marketplace. “DCVB’s philosophy and that of the board has always been strategic and sustainable growth. Today, we’re in a very good place because of that,” he said.

Rock Valley Publishing

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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.

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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.

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Rock Valley Publishing

Thursday, Dec. 14, 2023

Opinion

Slices of life

Being invited For much of my life, I’ve been the inviter. I enjoyed planning and inviting people to those plans.

But in the last few years, I haven’t invited much of anyone anywhere. I didn’t have the heart for it. I lacked momentum and (to be honest) I felt broken so I took on a rather new role.

I found myself waiting to be invited.

Not at first. At first, I didn’t want to be invited anywhere. I couldn’t plan or commit from today to tomorrow. I couldn’t plant or commit from 5-6 p.m. It felt too big.

Too overwhelming. Because it was, at the time.

But in the last few months, that’s changed. My attitude has changed and I’ve been going places - quite literally.

Lunch and shopping with a new acquaintance. A Friday night out.

An exercise class with friends. A Chinese restaurant on a holiday weekend.

Yep. I’m going places.

And it may not seem like much, but to me it is everything, or at the very least it is something.

Something significant.

In all this getting out, I realized I rather like it, and I give thanks for all my new friends who have opened this window for me.

In a sense, you’ve brought me back to life and it’s pretty awesome.

In that, I realize it feels good to be invited. It’s nice.

But I’m afraid I’ve emanated the “don’t talk to me” vibe for more than a little while. Too long, but that is what grief will do to you.

I’m sure there are people who might have invited me … then, thought twice about it. Because maybe they assumed I wasn’t ready.

Or, maybe my grief was so palpable it made others uncomfortable.

Who wants to go out to dinner with someone who cries before the main course is served?

It wasn’t that bad (always) but I did go through a very tough, a very dark period and I realize I

By

Jill Pertler Columnist

wouldn’t have wanted to be around me either—at least not for long stretches. Thing is, I didn’t have much of a choice. I was my dinner date seven out of seven, whether I liked it or not.

But time can be our enemy and our friend—sometimes both at once. Often both at once. Time has provided a gap between now and my loss and that gap has given me space to breath, to reflect and perhaps, even, to live.

To accept invitations. To look forward to them. To participate with joy and happy anticipation.

Thank you, to all you you, who have invited me to participate in life again. It is more, so much more, than appreciated.

Now I want to take it a step further.

I don’t want to, need to, wait for an invitation (although it will always be nice).

I want to invite. I want to plan. I want to be the person who includes others.

To have fun. To plan the fun. To be the origin of the fun.

So look out, all of you who have looked out for me! I’m on the invitation warpath. I am to repay your kindness with walks, dinner out, plans for next weekend and maybe even a home cooked meal.

I can’t wait to be on the other end of the invitation. On the other end of giving. It still feels a little scary, but it also feels good. To move forward.

To plan. To invite.

Who knew such a little realization could feel so big?

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.

Guidelines for writing, submitting a letter to the editor Rock Valley Publishing encourages our readers to reach out to the community by writing a letter to the editor.

Letters are limited to 400 words; if a letter exceeds 400 words, it will be sent back to the author to reduce the length of the letter. Authors must include their first and last name, the city or village in which they reside, and a phone number and email address where they can be reached in case of questions.

Send letters to: independent@rvpublishing.com Letter-writers will be limited to one letter per month except for locally elected officials, or individuals specifically associated with local village governments or entities such as school districts, park districts or library districts.

No letters directed to a third party will be accepted for publication.

We reserve the right to edit a letter for reasons of clarity, space restrictions and libel.

AARP Illinois issues statement about Peoples Gas emergency motion The following statement was issued by AARP Illinois State Director Philippe Largent following the emergency motion filed by Peoples Gas asking the Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC) to increase part of its Nov.16 rate case ruling: “On behalf of our 1.7 million members and all older adults across the state, AARP Illinois filed a response opposing Peoples Gas’ motion. The ICC’s decision, which will save Peoples Gas customers millions of dollars on their utility bills, is a monumental win for utility customers, including older adults on fixed incomes who were already struggling to keep up with rising utility bills.

“We vehemently oppose Peoples

Gas’ attempt to undermine the authority and thorough analysis of the ICC’s decision by trying to add an additional $134 million in spending. AARP Illinois always supports safe, reliable and affordable energy delivery to customers, and we firmly uphold the ICC’s consideration of these factors in their analysis. The excessive spending proposed, and once again requested, by Peoples Gas is a troubling display of corporate interests taking precedence over the needs and concerns of Chicago residents.

“As a formal intervenor on behalf of Illinois residents 50-plus, AARP Illinois has opposed the rate increases that benefited Peoples Gas’ bottom line on the backs of its customers

from the beginning. Over the past year, we’ve heard from thousands of older adults, including 15,000 who signed AARP Illinois’ petition, about how this increase would harm them, forcing them to make impossible choices between heating their homes, buying groceries or paying for prescriptions.

“We commend the ICC for adopting our position and also answering the pleas of thousands of older adults, putting their needs ahead of corporate greed. AARP Illinois will continue, as it has always done. to fight on behalf of ratepayers who deserve to have their voices prioritized in utility rate decisions that will affect their quality of life.”

Casten applauds EPA rule to reduce methane emissions Last week, U.S. Congressman Sean Casten (D-Illinois) released the following statement applauding the Environmental Protection Agency’s final rule to sharply reduce methane emissions: “Since the Industrial Revolution, methane emissions have accounted for approximately one-third of global warming. This problem has only become worse in recent years, as annual methane emissions remain stubbornly high. The EPA’s new methane rule will not only significantly decrease methane emissions, but it will also serve as a message to the world during COP 28 that the United States remains committed to our emissions reduction goals.”

The EPA’s final rule will prevent an estimated 58 million tons of methane emissions from 2024 to 2038, the equivalent of 1.5 billion metric tons of carbon dioxide—nearly as much as all the carbon dioxide emitted by the power sector in 2021. In 2030 alone, the expected reductions are equivalent to 130 million metric tons

of carbon dioxide, more than the annual emissions from 28 million gasoline cars. The rule would achieve a nearly 80 percent reduction below the methane emissions that would have been expected in the future without the rule.

These reductions are greater than what was projected for the 2022 and 2021 proposals, thanks to changes that strengthen provisions to limit wasteful, polluting flaring of natural gas and analytical updates that better capture the impacts of this rulemaking.

“I applaud the Biden Administration for cracking down on this super pollutant,” Casten said. “That said, this rule should not mark the end of our work on methane emissions. We must continue to develop the technologies needed to dramatically reduce methane emissions from the oil and gas industry and ensure the Department of Energy and the EPA have the resources necessary to do so.”

The final rule includes a comprehensive suite of pollution reduction

standards that address the largest sources of methane and other harmful pollutants at oil and gas facilities, including methane that leaks or is vented from equipment processes.

Among other things, the final rule will: • Phase in a requirement to eliminate routine flaring of natural gas that is produced by new oil wells; • Require comprehensive monitoring for leaks of methane from well sites and gas compressor stations, while giving oil and gas companies flexibility to use innovative low-cost methane monitoring technologies; • Establish standards that require reductions in emissions from high-emitting equipment like controllers, pumps, and storage tanks; and • Leverage third-party expertise to find large methane leaks and releases known as “super emitters.

Sean Casten represents Illinois 6th Congressional District which includes parts of Lombard.

Thursday, Dec. 14, 2023

At North Terrace Park in Villa Park there is a nice lagoon. During the three warmer seasons a floating fountain operates in the center of the pond. At the approach of winter the fountain is removed due to freezing issues, and replaced by an underwater aerator just off the bank. The aerator keeps a patch of the water open during the coldest parts of the winter and provides a place for the waterfowl to float and relax in relative safety. This season, as to date, no aerator has been installed. No one with the village can tell me why. Does anyone out there know the reasoning or if one will be installed soon? Thank you!

Editor’s note: Your inquiry was passed along to Villa Park officials, who responded as follows: “Per our Parks Department: We are working to have the bubbler up and running as quickly as possible, by the end of the day today or early tomorrow.” (Response from Dec. 5). *** In the Dec. 7 Lombardian, State’s Attorney Bob Berlin says he “strongly supports the wide-ranging value of early childcare and education as an important, yet underutilized, tool for reducing crime.” I also agree with his statement that there are “unnecessary challenges” from multiple-agency oversight of birth-to-5 services, which I am sure comes out of our pockets. As a former early childhood education major, I am a proponent of beginning education at the preschool level, although many families cannot afford it, thus putting their chil-

ing lot. They sold the property to a developer, rather than try to invest in a real estate venture. Imagine if Lombard tried to take over Yorktown—which sadly seems to be on its way to becoming another Stratford Square mall. Instead, the village is encouraging development of the area with tax incentives while still generating tax dollars it otherwise would not have. That seems to be the smarter way to go. Not all of us do all our shopping online, so please, people, help keep Yorktown alive. *** Let me get this straight. Three migrants from Venezuela, staying in Waukegan, make it to Elmhurst, where they allegedly steal merchandise from Kohl’s on Black Friday. They are arrested and charged with felony counts of burglary and retail theft. All three subjects are released, and have a court date, I would assume in Wheaton, on Dec. 18. What are the chances these migrants, staying in Waukegan, will show up in court? Will there be any reporting on that? This state is messed up. Thanks, Democrats! *** There is a brief item in the Nov. 30 Lombard police blotter. It says a male subject robbed two victims at gunpoint at a gas station on Main Street in Lombard at about 9:30 p.m. on Nov. 18. Isn’t that kind of a big story? An armed robbery at a gas station on Main Street, and it gets a few lines in the police report? What did the subject look like? What did he take from the victims? Was the subject ever caught? Shouldn’t this story get more attention than other police blotter items like traffic altercations, fights between juveniles and scratched vehicles? What is going on in our village? *** If all you have to call Speak Out about is your beef sandwiches taking too long, life’s pretty good for you then isn’t it! *** We can clearly see the effects

dren at a disadvantage. Making it available at age 4, like we do in District 44, is essential. However, as another caller stated, it is the state’s responsibility to fund the majority of a “free” education, and school districts need to spread out their funding to factor in early childhood education, and not further burden us taxpayers to keep footing the bill. And as for early childhood education being a “tool for reducing crime,” as Berlin states, I would agree, but I take it a step further and say the roots of education and values of avoiding crime begin at home with the first teachers; aka the parent(s). *** To the person who called about not getting his or her food for a half hour at a fast-food place, gee, just like posting it on Facebook, calling Speak Out is a sure way to get the problem solved. Not. I suggest people with complaints, questions, etc. go right to the source instead of wasting ink in the newspaper.

There’s a concept. *** I read that Bloomingdale is looking to revamp the Stratford Square mall, having purchased vacant department store buildings around the mall, and is also using the “eminent domain” card for the interior of the mall and former JCPenney store. The village is even going af- NOTICE OF ENTRY AND CLEANUP OF LOMBARD CEMETERY ter Kohl’s, one of the few, if only, PURSUANT TO 65 ILCS 5/11-49-1 anchors left to draw people to the AND mall. I don’t think villages should VILLAGE OF LOMBARD be in the real estate business. Look ORDINANCE NO. 6045 how long the DuPage Theatre propNOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the erty was on the village rolls, first Village of Lombard (hereinafter “Vilas an empty field and then a park- lage”) staff or contractors duly autho-

How Speak Out works • Speak Out is a forum in which readers can express their opinion anonymously concerning local, state, national and international topics.

Each call is limited to 200 words whether the caller calls 630-629TALK or emails their opinion to speakout@rvpublishing.com.

• The views expressed by callers are their own.

• All calls are checked by four editors. If a consensus of editors believes a particular call is deemed to be in poor taste, erroneous, inaccurate, libelous, doesn’t make sense, or if claims stated in a call cannot be verified, the call will not be published.

• With regard to calls of a political nature, it is not possible to have an equal balance of calls with liberal and conservative viewpoints during any given week. The editors of Speak Out don’t have control of who calls in, what their political leanings happen to be, and the topic(s) they want to discuss.

• If you have further questions about Speak Out, email: news1@ rvpublishing.com.

rized by the Village intend to enter the premises of the cemetery located on the west side of Main Street between Washington Boulevard and S. Park Avenue in the Village of Lombard, Illinois (hereinafter referred to as the “Lombard Cemetery”) between February 1, 2024 and December 31, 2024 to cause the grounds to be made clear and orderly by performing the following activities: (1) mowing the lawn to prevent an overgrowth of grass and weeds; (2) trimming of greenery to prevent excessive overgrowth and remove dead limbs; (3) repair of drains, water lines, buildings, fences and other structures of the cemetery premises; and (4) any other general maintenance and upkeep activities necessary to “cause the grounds to be cleared and made orderly.”

NOTICE IS FURTHER HEREBY GIVEN that the Village is authorized to perform the above-referenced maintenance to the Lombard Cemetery

of long-term Democrat Party control in the state of Illinois with their high taxes driving business out. Basically the only place to have retail in this DuPage County area is going to be gas stations and smoke shops. The Democrat Party runs the state horribly and they drive out businesses. I see CVS and Walgreens closing so many stores.

What is going on? *** I would like to thank the village of Lombard and the sponsors like Waste Management and Nolan Agency for the Jingle Bell Jubilee on Dec. 2. It was a well-attended, very enjoyable event. It brought me some Christmas spirit that I have not felt in a very long time. Families walking around town happy and engaging with each other was just great. The photo event at our new library was wonderful, as well as all the stops at the churches. The choirs were beautiful. It was a very enjoyable event. Thank you, Lombard. Happy holidays, everyone. *** Hello, one more thing about dogs at Yorktown and every other place.

It’s not the dog’s fault. It’s the owner’s fault. Those are the same people who let the dog do their business on my front lawn or throw their cup out the window or dump their garbage. It’s not the dog. It’s not the kid. It’s their parents. Thank you. Have a nice dog. *** Dear Lombard: there is a pedestrian walkway on St. Charles Road and Lincoln Avenue. Can I strongly suggest having a push button there for pedestrians to turn on a flashing light of some sort? I just drove by it and almost hit a pedestrian because I did not realize anyone was walking across St. Charles Road. It’s 6:15 in the morning, dark as heck and no sign of anyone walking.

Please put in a flashing light for the pedestrians to turn on before they cross the road. Thank you. *** Hi, Lombard calling: I am tired

Rock Valley Publishing

Page 5

of hearing about the state or the city paying for migrants. Whose money is it? It’s yours and it’s mine. Just because the city says the state’s going to pay for it, or the city’s going to pay for it, it’s our money. We need to stop it. Thank you. *** Most people today have inherited their lifestyle and their complacency. They haven’t gone through the gauntlets that made past generations strong and steadfast in their convictions. Religions, culture and common sense in history are not revered. If the present and future generations don’t become more attentive, artificial intelligence will be the future. Even our government is trying to confuse us by changing our history. We need to keep America strong. *** Well, since we can’t use the area in Chicago that is toxic for an immigrant shelter, how about using Soldier Field in Chicago? That might be a good place. It’s got a big wall around it and we can put up some tents in there and people could live there. It has bathrooms and plenty of parking. So how about that, all you Chicago fans? *** The backlash these three university presidents from the University Pennsylvania, MIT and Harvard are getting is well-deserved for their wishy-washy testimony during Congressional hearings about whether students who have called for the genocide of Jews would be disciplined under the university’s code of conduct. They are a disgrace. I see the Pennsylvania University president resigned. They all should resign. *** One thing I’m tired of hearing on the news is when a politician is described as being progressive. Every time I hear progressive, I immediately think regressive. The policies these so-called progressives support have set this country back and are ruining it.

LEGAL NOTICES pursuant to 65 ILCS 5/11-49-1, as the Lombard Cemetery has been found to be an “abandoned cemetery” by the Village within the meaning of said statute pursuant to Village Ordinance No. 6045.

NOTICE IS FURTHER HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to 65 ILCS 5/11-491 that the owner of the property or the legally responsible cemetery authority shall have the right to deny entry for the above-stated purposes upon written notification to the Village: (1) demonstrating the ownership or authority to control or manage the cemetery, and (2) declining the corporate authority authorization to enter the property; said written notification to be received

by February 1, 2024.

NOTICE IS FURTHER HEREBY GIVEN that the Village is not assuming, and shall not be deemed to have assumed, ownership or control of, or maintenance responsibility in relation to the Lombard Cemetery by this Ordinance generally or pursuant to 65 ILCS 5/11-52-1 et seq., 65 ILCS 5/11-52.1-1 et seq., 65 ILCS 5/11-52.2-1 et seq., or any other Illinois statute pursuant to which a governmental entity may exercise ownership, control, or maintenance responsibility relative to a cemetery. Furthermore, as the Village is expressly disclaiming ownership or control of, or maintenance

responsibility in relation to the Lombard Cemetery, the Village shall not be held liable for and is not assuming and shall not assume liability for any claims of any nature, including but not limited to claims of injury, based on failure to adequately maintain, control or operate the Lombard Cemetery.

(Published in The Lombardian Dec. 14, 2023) 448448

NOTICE CERTIFICATE NO. 79278 was filed in the office of the County Clerk of DuPage County on DECEMBER 1, 2023, wherein the business firm of C&J ENTERPRISES, 954 N. YORK RD., ELMHURST, IL 60126 was registered; that the true or real name or names of the person or persons owning the business, with their respective post office address(es), is/are as follows: Costandi Khoury III, 945 N. York Rd., Elmhurst, IL 60126; James Juliano, 945 N. York Rd., Elmhurst, IL 60126 IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and Official Seal at my office in Wheaton, Illinois, this 1ST day of DECEMBER, A.D. 2023.

Jean Kaczmarek DuPage County Clerk (Published in The Lombardian Dec. 14, 21 & 28, 2023) 448458

Page 6

Rock Valley Publishing

out& about

Thursday, Dec. 14, 2023

Jane Charmelo

Lombard Park District director to retire Paul Friedrichs: ‘I’ve had a very rewarding career’

Paul Friedrichs says he did not have in mind a career in the field of parks and recreation, but his experiences as a teenager and college student ended up being serendipitous, or as he put it, “happenstance.”

That is, the Lombard Park District executive director narrated, “I started back in high school and college, working in maintenance with the Arlington Heights Park District.”

He said he spent his summers building playgrounds, cutting the grass, building ice rinks in the winter, etc. After high school, he majored in finance at the University of Iowa.

“When I graduated I started looking for a job,” he continued, and in the meantime kept working for the park district—when he learned there was a position open for a staff accountant.

Friedrichs got the job, and worked there almost seven years, saying, “It was kind of happenstance to some extent,” adding, “I was there at the right time.”

He next worked as the finance director for the Park District of Oak Park for about three-and-a-half years before being hired as the Lombard Park District’s finance director in July 1998—then becoming the executive director in June 2007.

Friedrichs has received recognition—as has the park district itself under his watch—all too numerous to mention, some of which includes such honors as awards from the National Recreation and Park Association, and recognition as a National Gold Medal Grand Award-winning park district.

Friedrichs has overseen numerous projects, one of which he recalled fondly: the construction of Paradise Bay Water Park.

When asked about some of the challenges he faced during his career, Friedrichs said he had just become the executive director when barely a month later the Lombard pool became unusable, and “I had to figure out where to send my pass holders.”

After that, he said, “I went right into referendum mode,” to help finance a new pool facility for the community.

The referendum passed in February 2008, and the new $9.5 million water park opened in June 2009, $100,000 under budget.

While losing the original pool, still, “It gave us a great opportunity to design something that won awards,” Friedrichs commented, including the Illinois Park and Recreation Association Outstanding Facility and Park Award in 2009.

“One of my favorite days (each year) is the day we open the pool,” he said. “Paradise Bay is one of my proudest moments.”

The COVID-19 pandemic also presented a challenge, as Friedrichs

Paul Friedrichs

recalled how “We had mandates placed on us by the state and the federal government,” adding that it was “a challenge to keep buildings functioning even though we couldn’t let people in.”

He somberly described how he had to let many employees go, and the programming changed dramatically with the mandates, so “It was an extremely challenging time.”

When asked about rewarding experiences—besides how the water park became a beacon for community recreation—Friedrichs said being around to receive numerous grants to improve the Lombard parks is high on his list, and for that he expressed gratitude toward the state legislators who offered their support.

Being able to build the Madison Meadow Athletic Center (MMAC) without having to raise taxes is another rewarding experience he mentioned.

“I’m proud of the Madison Meadow Athletic Center. We worked for years to get our capital budget in order,” he said.

And speaking of the MMAC, besides being able to offer the venue for the annual Lombard Senior Fair events, one particular experience that stands out is being able to provide a location for seniors to get a COVID-19 vaccination if they wanted one.

“We were hearing there was such limited availability” to get the COVID-19 vaccine, Friedrichs recounted, so he contacted the Osco Pharmacy in Lombard, and worked out a way to hold several vaccine clinics at the MMAC. “We got over 5,000 people vaccinated,” he noted, over a period of five or six clinic opportunities. “If you wanted it, you could get it here locally.”

“That was different from what park districts do,” he said, but “We

PHOTOS Courtesy of Lombard Park District Rock Valley Publishing

Longtime Executive Director Paul Friedrichs is retiring at the end of December, after working for the Lombard Park District since 1998, when he was hired as the finance director. He has overseen many projects, such as improvements to many of the parks—many upgrades made possible thanks to grants— and construction of the Madison Meadow Athletic Center. Friedrichs is especially proud of Paradise Bay Water Park, which got voter support through a 2008 referendum after the former pool became unusable in 2007. Friedrichs is seen (far left) during the ribbon cutting for the new water park in June 2009.

pitched in where we could. The seniors were very appreciative. I still hear from people about that.”

Friedrichs said there are many things he will miss about his job: “The people, my staff, the board, the residents.”

He said he is proud of the relationships the park district has built with “our sister governments,” adding, “I’ll miss the collaborative efforts that make Lombard what it is.”

Friedrichs said it was the right time to retire, so he can spend more time with family and travel, adding that the executive director’s job has been what he described as “24/7.”

He has complete confidence in the new executive director, Joe McCann, who will take over from his position as recreation director on Jan. 1.

Angus Shields, who came from the Northbrook Park District, will take over as director of recreation.

“Joe will be amazing,” he praised, and when asked what advice he might offer his successor, Friedrichs thought for a moment, then responded, “Sometimes making the right decision is the hard decision.” And, he added, “Keep relying on staff.”

Summing up his tenure with the Lombard Park District, the outgoing director commented, “The park district is owned by the residents of this community. I never forgot that.”

(Continued from page 2) sions by Rep. La Shawn Ford, D-Chi- “statewide—rural, urban, suburban, cago. New York is the only state with you name it.” licensed overdose prevention cenThe draft report also doesn’t conters, both of which are in New York tain a plan of care for recent migrant City. populations that have arrived in IlIn countries with overdose pre- linois in the last 15 months largely vention sites, like Canada, Australia from the southern U.S. border. and several European countries, no As of Dec. 6, more than 27,000 deaths have been reported at any of asylum seekers have arrived in Chithese centers. cago, with a majority arriving via “We’ve seen how much these types buses from Texas at the direction of of interventions save money, they re- Gov. Greg Abbott, according to the duce costs from emergency services. city’s new arrivals dashboard.

They provide a direct link for peoWithout proper medical attenple to access health care services, tion and paperwork, the number of job training, food,” Laliberte Barnes asylum seekers places a particular said. “I would just like to really ad- strain on public schools that need vocate for the addition of overdose to address their physical and mental prevention sites as a strategy for the health needs. plan over the next five years.”

Betzua Rubio, a nurse at Eli WhitShe said overdoses are still rising ney Elementary in Chicago’s Little

Village, told the panel she was concerned for migrant children who are without paperwork such as immunization records.

“We are seeing the lack of implementation for medical providers to adequately provide medical orders,” including “asthma action plans, allergy action plans,” Rubio said at the hearings.

Rubio estimated that more than 100 migrant students have been enrolled at Eli Whitney and described her work as a bilingual school nurse as “nonstop.”

“We have been bringing administration vans for those children, but this is all work that we’re doing individually,” Rubio told Capitol News Illinois. “We’re not getting any help.”

• Crisis

Thursday, Dec. 14, 2023

Coming events Plum Library programs Illinois Libraries Present: The Nutcracker at Home! Saturday, Dec, 16 - Sunday, Dec. 17 Enjoy exclusive access to a recorded virtual performance of “The Nutcracker” performed by the UK’s Royal Ballet. Get the link by visiting helenplum.org.

Winter Wonderland Dance Party Wednesday, Dec. 20, at 10 a.m. Drop-in event for children 2 and older, with a participating adult. We’ll twirl like snowflakes to our favorite tunes in a library winter wonderland.

GPS program Dec. 19 The Glenbard Parent Series: (GPS) Navigating Healthy Families will present “Dialing Back the Inner Critic” with psychologist and author Lisa Baylis at noon and 7 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 19, via Zoom.

Go to glenbardgps.org for the links to these two webinars. To be placed on a reminder list for GPS events or

submit a question in advance, contact Gilda Ross, Glenbard District 87 student and community projects coordinator, at gilda_ross@ glenbard.org or at 630-942-7668.

As an educator and parent, Baylis understands the importance of prioritizing our well-being as a way of modeling wellness for our families.

Learn how to recognize the compassionate voice within you rather than letting the critical voice be the driver in your head. Continuing professional development units are available.

Lombard Masons blood drive Dec. 16 Lombard Masonic Lodge #1098 is holding a Versiti Blood Drive Saturday, Dec. 16, from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall at First Church of Lombard, 220 S. Main St., Lombard. Donate and receive a limited edition Versiti 2024 calendar, while supplies last.

Appointments are encouraged but

walk-ins are welcome. A photo ID is required. Call/text Camille from Versiti at 847-305-9998 to sign up.

Villa Park Library programs High School Exam Study Night: It’s that time of year again: final exams are just around the corner. The Villa Park Public Library will host High School Exam Study Night on Tuesday, Dec.19, and Wednesday, Dec.20 from 5-10 p.m. High school students are invited to study at the library with free Wi-Fi, snacks and therapy dogs! A therapy dog will visit each night from 7-8 p.m. For more information, visit the library’s website at www.vppl.info or call 630834-1164.

Holiday Matinee: Come see the show—holiday matinees are back at the Villa Park Public Library. The next Holiday Matinee will be shown on Wednesday, Dec. 27, at 1 p.m. For more information, visit the library’s website at www.vppl.info or call 630-834-1164.

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Tour of Magdalene House at 7 p.m. Dec. 14

The community is invited to attend a tour of The Magdalene House– Chicago’s main office today, Dec. 14, at 7 p.m.

The tour will be led by Mikayla Vosler, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Program director at Magdalene House. She will explain the purpose of this organization and the importance of helping women who have been sexually trafficked. This event is sponsored by Lombard Service League.

For more information about the House, log on SUBMITTED PHOTO Rock Valley Publishing to https://www.magdalenehousechicago.org. For more information about Lombard Service League, log on to https://lombardserviceleague.org. or phone 630-620-8938.

Obituaries Info: www.brustfuneralhome.com or 630-629-0094.

LORI ANN CEBALLOS, 61 Lori Ann Ceballos. nee Moore, age 61 of Lombard.

Funeral Services were held on Monday, Dec. 11, at Brust Funeral Home, 135 S. Main St., Lombard.

Interment followed at Assumption Cemetery, Winfield.

Info: www.brustfuneralhome.com or 630-629-0094.

Celebrating

65years 1959-2023

Thursday, July 13, 2023 Page 1 LOMBARDIAN

20, 2021 Thursday, May 6, 27,2021

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Vol. 651959-2021 No. 29 Vol. 63 No. 19 13, 2023 21 Thursday, May 2021 Thursday, May20, 6, 2021 22Thursday, July 27,

Sebastian’s Ale FREE and Whiskey House helps raise over $13,000 for Adopt A Solider Woman at annual charged with aggravated DUI VeteransScholarships presented in deadly crash at Glenbard East Suicide/PTSD Graduation day Local Scholarship Awareness Awards Night at Glenbard East fundraiser

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THURSDAY, MAY 13, 2021 THURSDAY, MAY 6,2023 2021 THURSDAY, JULY 13, THURSDAY, MAY 27, 2021 THURSDAY, JUNE 3, 2021

The 2021 Lilac Queen

DuPage County State’s Attorney CHRIS FOX PHOTO Lombardian Robert Berlin CHRIS FOX PHOTO Lombardian Glenbard East High its Local 2021 Scholarship Awards Night last week. after the ceremony.

Pictured (left to right) are: (front row)SUBMITTED Emily DinaLombardian Jovaand DuPage PHOTO Emmie Sathy was School namedheld Lombard’s Lilac Queen during Saturday coronation continued a tradition that began 91 years ago. Ryan, Lombard’s first CHRIS FOX PHOTO More than 40coronation members of the school’s Class of 2021 scholarships Rocco Marcello, TinainDjordjevic andEmmie Sophia Heatley; row) Maddie Sebastian’s Ale and Whiskey House, 801 E. Roosevelt, Lombard—with support theQueen welfare of active members and isveterans theLombardian United afternoon’s ceremony in Lilacia Park.

She received wasCounty oneand of five Lilac novic, Lilac was crowned 1930.

Queen a senior(back at of Glenbard East Sheriff James during the May 13 celebration Biester Auditorium.

Scholarship donors Weltin, Lauren Huber andattend Kendall Crackel.

Glenbard East’s Classabout of 2021 willstucel- of Glenbard East High Class ofstaff/crew, 2021 of celebrated its commenceThis year’s graduating classVanderbilt at Glenbard East includes 560 the help of many generous individuals, businesses, event and States armed forces, their immediate families and the families Princesses to take the School’s stagein at the beginning the ceremony.

Sheusually soon High School.

She will University inimmediate Nashville, Tennessee.

Mendrick attend the $13,848 annual event, but safety mitigations limited attendance atThis this year’sveterans. ebrate its commencement with two are ceremonies this Saturday in Saturday’s the school’s stament with Saturday’s two separate ceremonies the Queen. school’s stadium. dents.

Several ofbe thefound graduates pictured at the end of first the incredible community—raised atsash its and recently held thirdinLilac annual deceased Presenting the check Sue Wackerlin (middle), founder accepted the crown, cape as this year’s year’s More photos can inside thisto issue.

Christine service. of the scholarship winners pictured outsideannounced of the dium.

Theare firstTammy ceremonyHendrickson will begin at 10 a.m.

Theand second service starts at 1(right), p.m.

The firstEight service began at The 10 a.m.

The are second started at 1 p.m. service.

Veterans Suicide/PTSD Awareness fundraiser. funds go toceremony support ofauditorium Adopt A Soldier, (left) Johanna Marks Brocious that bond has Adopt A Soldier—a 501(c)3 organization whose mission is to lift morale organized the event. beenwho set for Christine Brocious, 36, of Chicago Ridge.

Brocious is charged with one count of aggravated DUI causing death (Class 2 felony) and two counts of aggravated DUI causing great bodily harm (Class 4 felony) stemming from Opinion ........................... 4 Police reports ................. 7 a June 29 crash that claimed 2020 SCHILLER TEAM SALES: the life of another motorist, About...................

6 Sports .......................11-12 .........................9-10 25-year-old Opinion ...........................Out 4 &Police reports ..............2-3 $140,000,000 & 276 CLOSED UNITS Jorgo Cukali and severely injured Jorgo’s Out & About................... 6 Sports ............................ 10 30-year-old sister, Nastika Cukali, who was a passenger in his vehicle. #1 REALTOR ® • #1 TEAM • #1 OFFICE Brocious appeared at a bond hearing where Judge Daniel Tim Schiller | 630.992.0582 | tim@theschillerteam.com Guerin set bond at $1.5 million *MRED, LLC, includes all closed sales in Lombard for all property types, all agents, and all offices, 1/1/2020-12/31/2020. with 10 percent to apply.

On June 29 at approximately 11:30 p.m., DuPage County Sheriff deputies responded to unincorporated Winfield at Mack and Winfield Roads for

THE NEWSPAPER! And they’re off INSIDE:

INSIDE:

Graduation Play at theday plate at Willowbrook

Freshman Lindsey Rugg of the Willowbrook softball team is pictured while attempting to score a run during Friday’s game at Downers Grove South. Rugg tried to score from second base on a single by sophomore Katelyn Cox in the top of the second inning, the game tiedcelebrated at 2-2. Downers Grove South’swith catcher Willowbrook Highwhen School’s Class was of 2021 its commencement two tagged Rugg out at home for the third out of theon inning.

Themorning.

Mustangs separate ceremonies in theplate school’s main gymnasium Sunday Thewent enon to defeat the Warriors 7-3students. in the West Suburban Conference contest. Wiltire class includes over 470 About half ofGold those students attended the

1

FREE

1 • Thursday, July 13, 2023 - Rock Valley Publishing

IndependenceBensenville Day in Villa Park ndependent TAKE ONE

CHRIS FOX PHOTOS Villa Park Review

I

Villa Park Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Post 2801 held its analso serving Wood dale nual Fourth of July Parade last week. TheCHRIS parade, which began at FOX PHOTO Villa Park Review VOL. conditions.

19 • NO. 30 WWW.THEINDEPENDENTNEWSPAPERS.COM 10 a.m., took place loss in warm andan sunny The honor guard lowbrook rebounded from Friday’s to post 11-2 win in Saturday’s game at Naval Station Great Lakes off in the parade.

The honor Hinsdale Central.from The Warriors bashed three homeled runs the second inning of guard Satis shown (top left) while proceeding west on Central Boulevard near CHRIS FOX PHOTO Villa ParkSilver Review Woman urday’s non-conference battle against the Red Devils of the West Suburban Harvard Other parade participants included Willowbrook Conference.

Senior Annemarie Knudtson, freshman Isabella Dugo and that sophomore ceremony that began at 9 Avenue. a.m. The others participated in the ceremony started charged with

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County State’s Attorney Robert Berlin and DuPage CountyDay service on Monday mornVilla Park Veterans of Foreign Warson (VFW) Post 2801 of held itsApril.

Memorial Commission.

Arbor Day is observed the last Friday each The National Arbor Day Foundation Sheriff James ing Cortesi Veterans Memorial Park.

Post Commander Jim is pictured bowingthat his recognihead as Mendrick hasatrecognized Villa Park with Tree City USA designation forBlankshain 36 straight years.

To receive Christine announced Willowbrook High School students Hendrickson and a Anna Seelbach at the end ofcomthe tion, a community must have a tree Lily board or department, tree-care ordinance, ataps comprehensive Brocious that bondsound has for Christine Brocious, pandemic. This ceremony.

The post’s 2020and Memorial Day event was canceled becausebeenofsetthe COVID-19 munity forestry program an Arbor Day observance.

36, of Chicago Ridge.

630.514.9961 LOCALof AGENT. LOCAL year’s observance included a reading of the names the Post 2801RESULTS. members who Brocious is charged withhave recently died. kdrury@atproperties.com one count DUI That list included World War II veteran Charles “Sid” Bergh, who served asof aggravated the master of ceremonies causing death (Class 2 felony) LoveVillaPark.com of the post’s annual Memorial Day service for several years. A veteran of counts the ofU.S. Navy, Bergh died in and two aggravated DUI causing great bodily harm 438517 October 2020. He was 94 years old. Bergh was the post’s last surviving World War II veteran.

(Class 4 felony) stemming from a June 29 crash that claimed the life of another motorist, 25-year-old Jorgo Cukali and severely injured Jorgo’s 30-year-old sister, Nastika Cukali, who was a passenger in his vehicle.

Brocious appeared at a bond hearing where Judge Daniel Guerin set bond at $1.5 million with 10 percent to apply.

On June 29 at approximately 11:30 p.m., DuPage County Sheriff deputies responded to unincorporated Winfield at Mack and Winfield Roads for

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Police Reports..........6 Puzzles............8 & 14 Viewpoint...............10 Classifieds..............13

Village joins LibertyFest Parade

These parade-goers are ready to step off with this Bensenville Park District float, which ap the Wood Dale LibertyFest Parade. More photos inside.

These youngsters took part in the Kids Race portion of the 4 on the 4th race that takes place every year on 4th of July near Elmhurst University.

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NATE KURZ Nate “Biggs” Kurz, of Lombard, passed away on Dec. 2, 2023 in Lisle.

A Visitation was held on Monday, Dec. 11, 2023, at Brust Funeral Home, 135 S. Main St., Lombard.

Private Interment.

Info: www.brustfuneralhome.com or 888-629-0094.

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Juniors in 1993 and 2005. She was Junior of the Year in 2009.

In 2014 Sue was voted Lombard Woman of the Year. Even with all her volunteering in town, Sue made her family her priority. You could find her cheering on her grandkids at soccer games, plays, and school events. She loved being a grandma and supporting her family. When she had free time, Sue enjoyed reading and swimming.

A Visitation was held on Friday, December 8, 2023, at Brust Funeral Home, 135 S. Main Street, Lombard, thence processing to a Funeral Mass at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, 114 S. Elizabeth St., Lombard. Interment at Assumption Cemetery, Winfield.

In lieu of flowers, memorials in Sue’s name to TLC Camp, P.O. Box 512, Lombard, IL 60148, would be appreciated.

415739

SUSAN BIELENDA Susan Bielenda, nee Nilson, longtime Lombardian, died on December 4th, 2023, at Good Samaritan Hospital.

Sue’s family moved to Lombard when she was in middle school. She graduated from Glenbard East in 1971. After high school she enrolled at Northern Illinois University. There she would go on to meet her husband, John.

They were married at Christ the King Catholic Church, here in Lombard, on July 27th, 1974. Shortly after, they moved to Lombard.

Sue was the loving mom of John Richard Bielenda and Jackie (Jeff) Gullett. Sue is the dear ‘Mimi’ of her 3 grandkids, Jordan Gullett, Leah Gullett, and Mason Gullett. Dear sister of Judy (Tom) Jamrock, Richard (Sue) Nilson, and James Nilson. Sue is preceded in death by her parents, Richard and Patricia, nee Dwyer, Nilson.

Sue dedicated much of her time to improving the Lombard community.

She worked as teacher and later director of the Co-op Nursery School at the First Church of Lombard. Her students affectionately called her ‘Mrs. Sue.’ She was also the president of the Friends of the Library for 8 years.

She was a former PTO president at Hammerschmidt Elementary School and Glenbard East High School while her kids were in school. Sue was a member of the Lombard Service League.

Sue was a member of the Lombard Junior Women’s Club for 30+ years.

She served in the Juniors in many facets, serving as the president of the club in 1995, 1996, 2011 and 2017.

Sue was passionate about the TLC camp. She was awarded Outstanding Service to the community by the

Page 8VP

Rock Valley Publishing

Thursday, Dec. 14, 2023

Montini sophomore earns dual honors for the month of November Student from Villa Park named Student of the Month and Artist of the Month

Montini Catholic High School in Lombard recently announced dual honors for sophomore Michael May of Villa Park as the school’s Student and Artist of the Month for November.

Montini World Language (Chinese II) teacher Sumin Xu nominated May for the Student of the Month award.

Montini Theatre Director Jaclyn Martin nominated May for the Artist of the Month accolade.

“Michael is an outstanding student and role model for his peers,” said Xu. “He is kind and respectful. He is a self-motivated, hard-working student and participates greatly in Chinese class. His positive attitude and diligent academic performance ranked him at the top of this class.”

Xu also nominated May due to his enthusiasm and involvement as a Bronco student.

“Mrs. Xu’s Chinese class is always a highlight of my day,” said May. “It is an entertaining, engaging, and yet challenging class where I learn and improve my Chinese skills every day.

Mrs. Xu is truly passionate about teaching Chinese, and is a very encouraging teacher that always pushes my classmates and I to do our best. I plan on continuing to learn Chinese

throughout high school with Mrs. Xu as my teacher.”

May’s passion for theatre and his diligence to hone his craft has also earned him the Artist of the Month honor. Like Student of the Month honors, it is one that only 10 Montini students acquire each school year.

Martin initiated his nomination and was thrilled he was selected as Artist of the Month—she considers it a well deserved honor.

May portrayed Peter in Montini’s recent fall presentation of “Peter and the Starcatcher,” a story that follows the origins of the infamous boy who never grows up.

“He was a clear choice for the lead in this show,” said Martin of May. “His ability to fully understand a character allows him to connect with the audience and to successfully tell the story.

He is also very collaborative with his fellow cast mates and crew members.”

May worked with Martin as a freshman, playing Mr. Green in the spring play, “Clue.”

“He is so talented. I am so proud of his dedication to our theatre program, and I look forward to what Michael will bring to the table in future Montini Catholic shows,” Martin added.

The Villa Park Police Department 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.

Dec. 2 A complainant at a pharmacy in the 200 block of E. Roosevelt reported at 4:39 p.m. that an unknown suspect removed items from display shelves and left the store without paying.

A complainant in the 800 block of S. Myrtle reported that the rear window of their vehicle was shattered but nothing appeared to be missing in the inside of the vehicle.

Police Reports

Dec. 1 A 36-year-old Addison man was charged with two counts of domestic battery in the 1-100 block of E. North. The alleged incident occurred Nov. 24, and the suspect was arrested on the above date.

A complainant in the 600 block of N. Harvard reported at 9:08 a.m. that a suspect is harassing them via phone.

Nov. 30 Police said Hector A. Muro, 42, of Villa Park, was arrested on an original complaint and warrant for theft of labor, services or use of property on the above date for an alleged incident that occurred in the 1-100 block of E. Hill on April 25.

A complainant at a pharmacy in the 200 block of E. Roosevelt reported at 3:44 a.m. that an unknown suspect removed a bottle of alcohol from a display shelf and left the store without paying.

Nov. 29 A complainant at a gaming facility in the 600 block of W. North reported that an unknown subject entered the facility and was acting suspicious.

May said he has learned much from Martin, who is also his speech teacher.

“Speech is a great way to start my day. Being in theatre makes this class enjoyable as I am now used to speaking in front of an audience,” he said.

May was extremely excited to learn that he had made Montini history by securing both Artist of the Month and Student of the Month acknowledgements at the same time.

“I am super proud of myself and so honored that I was selected,” May said.

He admits it wasn’t until he decided to pursue a part in the play during his freshman year in “Clue” that he discovered an interest in acting.

“I love performing at Montini. I love working with the other cast and crew; they are all very hard-working and funny,” May said.

He also values the direction and guidance from his director.

“I enjoy working with Miss Martin; she pushes me, as well as all our actors, to do our very best,” May said. “She always brings positive energy to theater rehearsals.”

As an active member of Montini’s student body, May divides his time among several activities. He is a member of the boys volleyball team and Montini’s Chamber Choir, as well as the A Cafellas singing group. He has earned a spot in the Tri-M Music Honor Society, reserved for students who exhibit exceptional scholarship, leadership, service, and character.

May joined the Broadcasters Club and is responsible for making morning announcements and updating Broncos

SUBMITTED PHOTO Rock Valley Publishing

Montini Catholic High School in Lombard recently named sophomore Michael May of Villa Park as the school’s Student of the Month and Artist of the Month for November. May is pictured (left) with Montini Theatre Director Jaclyn Martin (right), who nominated him for the Artist of the Month honor. World Language (Chinese II) teacher Sumin Xu nominated May for the Student of the Month award.

on the goings-on at school. Additionally, he is an active member of Student Government, Lasallian Youth, the History Club, the Chinese Club and the Ping Pong Club (President).

“I’m not yet sure if I want to pursue theatre after high school, but I would

like to have a career in the performing arts,” said May, who would love to see “The SpongeBob Musical” on the Montini stage.

May graduated from Albright Middle School in Villa Park. He is a parishioner of St. Pius X Parish in Lombard.

Nov. 28 A complainant at a school in the 200 block of W. Vermont reported that a juvenile subject battered a juvenile victim.

Nov. 27 A complainant at an auto repair shop in the 200 block of W. North reported that a suspect damaged part of the lawn at the business while backing out.

A complainant at a store in the 300 block of E. St. Charles reported at 3:09 p.m. that an unknown suspect removed items from display shelves and left the store without paying for the items.

A complainant in the 400 block of W. Division reported at 3:45 p.m. that an unknown suspect damaged one of their vehicle’s tires while the vehicle was parked in a parking lot.

A complainant at a store in the 1-100 block of E. North reported at 6:07 p.m. that an unknown suspect removed items from display shelves and left the store without paying.

Nov. 26 A complainant in the 1-100 block of W. Terrace reported at 1:37 a.m. that an unknown suspect used an unknown object to break the front driver’s side window of a vehicle parked in the parking lot.

Fraud, identity theft According to information provided by the Villa Park Police Department, police reported two incidents of residents being victims of fraud or identity theft.

SUBMITTED PHOTO Rock Valley Publishing

Food drive benefits York Township Food Pantry

Interplan LLC, located at 1 South Summit Avenue in Oakbrook Terrace, is an architecture and engineering firm that provides development solutions for restaurant, retail, hospitality and commercial programs. As a way to give back to the community, employees organized their 13th annual food drive to collect an abundance of non-perishable food items for families in need. Items were delivered to the York Township Food Pantry on Nov. 20, just in time to help stock pantry shelves for the holiday season. Four representatives of Interplan LLC are pictured with York Township Food Pantry Director Angela Tanner. Pictured left to right are: Project Coordinator Alban Hoti, Director Jay Schoneman, Principal Dennis Cabala, Tanner and Administrator Isaly Gonzalez. “I want to thank the management and all the employees at Interplan LLC for their ongoing support year after year,” said York Township Supervisor John W. Valle. “We are proud to have such generous partners in the fight against hunger in York Township.”

Thursday, Dec. 14, 2023

Rock Valley Publishing

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when the officer located the vehicle, later determined to be driven by Castro, Castro put his car in reverse and proceeded southbound on Route 83. It is alleged that as the officer pursued, Castro reached speeds of approximately 107 mph in a 45-mph zone and disobeyed three traffic lights.

It is alleged that near 16th Street, Castro completed a U-turn and continued driving northbound on Route 83 reaching speeds of approximately 100 mph in a 35-mph construction zone, at which time the pursuing officer lost sight of the vehicle.

A short time later, the vehicle was located abandoned in a school parking lot. Officers responded to the school parking and at approximately 8:42 p.m., located Castro approximately one block away from the school. He was then taken into custody after a brief struggle with the officers.

Castro’s next court appearance is scheduled July 27 for arraignment in front of Judge Telander.

Noon-5 p.m. | July 4 Bensenville Water Park

Register in advance by calling 630-766-7015.

438525

THURSDAY, JUNE 29, 2023

DEE LONGFELLOW PHOTO Bensenville Independent

As many museums are celebrating Andy Warhol and his legacy of pop art, July 28. Pictured are (from left): Daley Wangler, Reilly Costello, Katy Costello, the Elmhurst Artists’ Guild hosted reception for its Inspired By Warhol exhibit, a whose works were on display in the exhibit, Allison Haas and Katie Fox. Info: juried exhibition based on the works of Andy Warhol on display through Friday, elmhurstartmuseum.org.

County sheriff investigating Juneteenth shooting incident One killed, 23 wounded; deceased victim was father of two

multiple weapons into a large crowd No arrests have been made as of at around 12:30 a.m. during a gather1 press time in connection with a mass ing to commemorate Juneteenth held shooting at a strip mall in unincorpo- ¢¢ ¢in the parking lot at the mall, located rated DuPage County near Willow- ¢near Honeysuckle Lane and Route brook early Sunday morning, June 83.

18, the day designated as Juneteenth.

Approximately 23 people were The DuPage County Sheriff’s wounded by gunfire. Victims were Office said an unknown number of taken to hospitals in DuPage, Cook suspects fired multiple rounds from and Will counties. One man, idenSTAFF REPORT

60 60

Open!

Police Reports..........4 information to call 630-407-2343.

The Juneteenth celebration started Viewpoint ................8 Classifieds..............10 JULY 4 at around 6 p.m. Saturday, June 17.

T T T

Graduation Play at theday plate at Willowbrook

Freshman Lindsey Rugg of the Willowbrook softball team is pictured while attempting to score a run during Friday’s game at Downers Grove South. Rugg tried to score from second base on a single by sophomore Katelyn Cox in the top of the second inning, the game tiedcelebrated at 2-2. Downers Grove South’swith catcher Willowbrook Highwhen School’s Class was of 2021 its commencement two tagged Rugg out at home for the third out of theon inning.

Themorning.

Mustangs separate ceremonies in theplate school’s main gymnasium Sunday Thewent enon to defeat the Warriors 7-3students. in the West Suburban Conference contest. Wiltire class includes over 470 About half ofGold those students attended the

Noon-5 p.m. | July 4 Bensenville Water Park

According to the Daily Herald, DuP-

age in County Sheriff’s deputies had Register WhitePinesG advance byolf.com been630-766-7015. monitoring the celebration, but calling 395484

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alsoserving servingOO O also also serving

Joe Benedetti, known as “Joe the Barber,” recently retired after 50 years of serving the Addison akbROOk eRRace akbROOk errace eRRace akbrOOk akbROOk eRRace akbROOk eRRace community. The owner of Joe’s Hair Styling Unisex at 611 W. Lake Street was honored by the Village of Addison at a Board meeting on Monday, June 5, where he received a Proclamation in honor of his VOL. 17 ••NO. NO. 21 WWW.THEINDEPENDENTNEWSPAPERS.COM VOL. 17••attended NO.23 20 WWW.THEINDEPENDENTNEWSPAPERS.COM 19 28 WWW.THEINDEPENDENTNEWSPAPERS.COM 17 WWW.THEINDEPENDENTNEWSPAPERS.COM 50 years in business. Nearly 100 communityVOL. members the meeting to congratulate him.

VOL. 17 NO. 24 WWW.THEINDEPENDENTNEWSPAPERS.COM

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tified as 31-year-old father of two Reggie Meadows, died after suffering a gunshot wound to the abdomen.

Deputy Chief Eric Swanson of the DuPage County Sheriff’s Office said in a news conference Sunday, June 18 that at least two other victims were in critical condition.

“The motive behind this incident is unclear,” Swanson said. “This is

Driving

Range

Officially

InsIde:

SUBMITTED PHOTO Addison Independent

‘Joe the Barber’ honored by Village

Golf Lessons

still an active investigation.”

Call theINDEPENDEN Pro Shop CE DAY PARADE “We are working around the clock to Register Today March with to bring to justice,” the those parkresponsible district! the sheriff’s office said in a recent Sign up at BvilleParks.org (630) /Libertyfest 766-0304 post on Twitter, urging anyone with Puzzles ....................9

394390 responded to a 911 call of396445 a fight that 438525 396917 had broken out nearby.

THURSDAY, MAY 13, 2021 THURSDAY, MAY 6,2023 2021 THURSDAY, 29, THURSDAY, MAY 27, 2021 While JUNE deputies were investigating THURSDAY, JUNE 3, 2021 that call, they heard gunshots and

returned immediately to the celebration.

“Out of nowhere, there was a major gunfight for like 30 seconds,” eyewitness Bartosz Majerczyk told ABC 7 Eyewitness News. “I’d say, 60 plus rounds. You could tell it was two different groups of people shooting at each other.”

Another witness, who said she was at the celebration, told ABC 7 Eyewitness News “everybody started running” when the gunfire erupted.

“There was a man,” she said. “He fell on top of me. He had a gunshot wound to his leg. It was like something you can’t imagine.”

In a statement, Governor JB Pritzker said he is closely monitoring the shooting.

“Gathering for a holiday celebration should be a joyful occasion, not a time when gunfire erupts and families are forced to run for safety,” Gov. Pritzker said. “As I’ve said time and

time again, gun violence is a public health emergency in this country and I remain committed to banning these dangerous weapons and making our state safer for everyone.”

Meadows was described as a “devoted father whose life was tragically taken from us amidst a Juneteenth celebration” on a GoFundMe page set up to provide support to his two young children, RJ and Gabby.

Meadows was “a beacon of love and strength, who fell victim to a devastating crossfire incident that shattered the peace and joy of what should have been a day of celebration.

“Amidst the chaos, Reggie tragically lost his life, leaving an indelible mark of grief on his family and community. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the other victims who were injured, as we mourn the loss of Reggie, a remarkable individual who touched the lives of many.”

CHRIS FOX PHOTO Villa Park Review

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 SatCHRIS FOX PHOTO Villa ParkSilver Review urday’s non-conference battle against the Red Devils of the West Suburban Conference.

Senior Knudtson, freshman Isabella Dugo and that sophomore ceremony that beganAnnemarie at 9 a.m. The others participated in the ceremony started Kayleigh the home Dennison (No. 5) is pictured in the at 11 a.m. Dennison The photoprovided shows members of runs. the Willowbrook Senior Choir performing background of the above photo. more aboutsee thePage Warriors, during the day’s first service.

ForFor more photos, 4. see page 14.

Departing Mariners LOW INVENTORY!

CHRISFOX FOXPHOTO PHOTOVilla VillaPark ParkReview Review CHRIS SUBMITTED PHOTO Villa Park 390271 Review 377325

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Police Reports..........4 Puzzles ....................9 Viewpoint ................8 Classifieds..............10

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Celebrating all things Warhol

Memorial Day in Villa Park

The Village of Villa Park observed Arbor Day with a tree planting on Friday, April 30. Pictured (left to right) at the tree planting at the village’s Franklin Park, located at 218 N. Third Ave., are: Villa Park Village your local agent

Trustee Christine Murphy, Justin Shlensky—chair of the Villa Park Environmental Concerns Commis..........6 14 PoliceReports Reports............4 ..........8 Classifieds................10 Sports.................... ....................17 16 sion, The Margaret Villa Park Mariners recognized six Villa departing swimmers during Saturday’s meet against Police Reports ..........8 Sports Police Schiefer—a membertheir of the Park “senior” Environmental Concerns Commission, Villa Park KATE DRURY Hanover Park at Jefferson Pool.Villa Pictured to right at the end of the meet—Villa final home meet of Village Trustee Cheryl Tucker, Parkleft Village President Albert Bulthuis, VillaPark’s Park Village Trustee (and Contact me for aRoscoe, DRURY Legal Notices ......... 15 Speak Classifieds..............13 Viewpoint ................6 Classifieds..........17-18 season—are: (front row) Grace Harper KATE Conboy Knudtson; (back Viewpoint ................6 Classifieds..............16 Puzzles ......................9 Out................8 the Village President-Elect) Nick Cuzzone andCaitlin LeslieO’Connor, Allison-Seei—chair of theand VillaGabby Park Community Pride 630-514-9961 PRSRT STD PRSRTSTD STD PRSRT PRSRT STD US POSTAGE POSTAGE USUSUSPOSTAGE POSTAGE PAID PAID PAID PAID ROCK VALLEY ROCKVALLEY VALLEY ROCK ROCK VALLEY PUBLISHING LLC PUBLISHINGLLC LLC PUBLISHING PUBLISHING LLC

complementary row) Alexander Dean and Simon Luedtke.

All ofFriday the pictured Mariners areNational members of Willowbrook High Villa Park Veterans of Foreign Warson (VFW) Post 2801 held its Memorial Day service onDay Monday mornCommission.

Arbor Day is observed thesix last of each April.

The Arbor Foundation 630-514-9961 School’s ClassVeterans of Villa 2023.

Roscoe, has been with the Mariners for years, willTo attend the University ing Cortesi Memorial Park.

Post Commander Jim is pictured bowing his recognihead of as kdrury@atproperties.com hasatrecognized Park withwho Tree City USA designation forBlankshain 36seven straight years. receive that market analysis Wisconsin-Madison.

O’Connor, 11or years with and the Mariners, and Knudtson, who’s a Mariner Willowbrook High School students Lily Hendrickson Anna Seelbach soundataps at been the end ofcomthe kdrury@atproperties.com tion, a community must have awho treespent board department, a tree-care ordinance, comprehensive of your home!! for sevenforestry years, will both attend Illinois State University.

Conboy,because who hasofbeen member of the Mariners ceremony.

The post’s 2020 Memorial Day event was canceled the a COVID-19 pandemic.

This munity program and an Arbor Day observance. for 10 years, and Luedtke, who’s been with forof six years, both attend College of DuPage. year’s observance included a reading of the team names the Postwill 2801 members who have recentlyDean, died. who’s been with theWorld Mariners 11 years,Charles will attend theBergh, Milwaukee Villa Park beat That list included War II veteran “Sid” who School served of asEngineering. the master of ceremonies I would to for help!

Hanover Park annual 372-205Memorial in Saturday’s to improve its season record to 2-4.

TheU.S. Mariners finish their of the post’s Daymeet service for several years. A veteran of the Navy,will Bergh died in eight-meet regular season with this Dale a meet in Roselle July 8.

October 2020.

He was 94 years old.week’s Berghmeet was in theWood post’s lastand surviving World Waron II veteran.

Federal judge sets trial date for State Sen. Tom Cullerton--Page 4

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440472

Santa is visiting the Yorktown Center mall’s winter wonderland and will be available to have pictures taken now through Dec. 24. Hours through Dec. 23 are Monday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. (on break from 3-4 p.m.), Sunday, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. (on break from 3-3:30 p.m.).

Hours for Dec. 24 are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. (on break from 1-1:45 p.m.).

Reservations are not available, so plan your visit to avoid longer wait times. Santa photographs will be available as both prints and digital downloads, along with accessories to make your portraits extra special. On Dec. 5, pets and their humans also got a chance to have a photo taken with Santa, such as Emily and Andrew Magazzu, pictured (top right) with their dog Persephone, or “Sephie” as they call her. Visit yorktowncenter. com for more information.

DuPage County State’s Attorney Robert Berlin and Villa Park Chief of Police Michael Rivas announced that bond has been set for a Florida man accused of leading Omar Castro police on a high-speed chase.

Omar Castro, 22, appeared at a bond hearing where Judge Michael Reidy set bond at $100,000.

Castro is charged with two counts of aggravated fleeing and eluding a police officer (Class 4 felony) and multiple misdemeanor and petty traffic offenses including two counts of aggravated speeding in a construction zone, reckless driving and driving while license suspended, all Class A misdemeanors.

On Thursday, June 22 at approximately 8:28 p.m., an Elmhurst police officer responded to a call of a stolen motor vehicle near Route 83 and North Avenue. It is alleged that

VOL. 19 • NO. 28

THURSDAY, JUNE 29, 2023

Florida man charged with leading police on high-speed chase

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PUZZLE Page

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Rock Valley Publishing

Thursday, Dec. 14, 2023

ANGEL BELLS BOUGH CHRISTMAS TREE DECORATE DISPLAY FIREPLACE GARLAND HOLLY INFLATABLE MANTEL MENORAH MISTLETOE NUTCRACKER ORNAMENTS POINSETTIA SANTA SLEIGH SNOWMAN STAND STOCKINGS STRINGED LIGHTS WINDOW WREATH

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 1. Mimic 4. Payroll firm 7. Perform in a play 10. Opine: __ philosophical 11. Crony 12. Political action committee 13. 1991 Wimbledon winner 15. Affirmative 16. Exclamation of disgust 19. Action of connecting 21. A way to calm 23. Especially fine or decorative clothing 24. Walked proudly 25. Group of people related through male heir 26. Supplemented with difficulty 27. Soft touch 30. Erases 34. Spanish river 35. A princess can detect it 36. Clouds of gas 41. A way to get through 45. Part of a book 46. Southwestern US state 47. Fields where rice is grown 50. Area in Ghana 54. Sayings 55. Involve deeply 56. Compels to act 57. “Ignore all rules” 59. Indoor entertainment space 60. Born of 61. Back muscle 62. Sea dweller 63. Tools that resemble an axe 64. Prefix denoting class or kind 65. Tooth caregiver CLUES DOWN 1. Inspiring 2. Put into a box 3. Breathes out 4. Pacify 5. Patriotic society for women 6. Fell down

7. Clothing 8. Dishwasher detergent brand 9. Former French republic 13. Single lens reflex 14. Men’s fashion accessory 17. Consumed 18. Marry 20. __ up: intensifies 22. Body of water 27. People of southern Benin 28. Decorate a cake with frosting 29. Snag 31. Yearly tonnage (abbr.)

32. Records brain activity (abbr.)

33. Car mechanics group 37. Brought up to snuff

38. __ faire: Economic approach 39. Phil __, former CIA 40. Affixed 41. Period of adolescence 42. Substance 43. Danced 44. Baked without its shell 47. Parts per billion (abbr.)

48. Satisfaction 49. Balkans river 51. Christmas carols 52. Partner to tonic 53. “The Godfather” character Johnny 58. Swiss river

Answers on page 21

Thursday, Dec. 14, 2023

Rock Valley Publishing

Hometown Holiday

GIFT GUIDE THIRD EDITION

See inside for the benefits of shopping local during the holiday season A publication of Rock Valley Publishing, LLC

Page 11

Page 12

Rock Valley Publishing

Thursday, Dec. 14, 2023

SUBMITTED PHOTO Rock Valley Publishing

Elmhurst Choral Union (ECU) will present Handel’s Messiah on Sunday, Dec. 17 at 3 p.m. in Hammerschmidt Chapel at Elmhurst University. Tickets are $25/adults, $15/ youth 12 and younger and are available at the door or in advance at elmhurstchoralunion.org/tickets.

ECU to present Handel’s Messiah

Elmhurst Choral Union (ECU) will present Handel’s Messiah on Sunday, Dec. 17 at 3 p.m. in Hammerschmidt Chapel at Elmhurst University. Tickets are $25 for adults, $15 for youth up to 12 and can be purchased online at elmhurstchoralunion.org/tickets or at the door the day of the concert.

Handel’s Messiah is known for its setting to sacred texts and rich orchestrations. It includes the dramatic “Hallelujah Chorus,” which has become a crowd favorite during the Christmas season.

The group is led by artistic director Scott Uddenberg and will be accompanied by a full professional orchestra and professional soloists. Since its founding in 1952, the 60+ member chorus has rehearsed and performed at Elmhurst University, with a mission to create outstanding choral performances for the community to appreciate and enjoy.

Financial support was provided by the Explore Elmhurst Grant Program, Wurlitzer Grant, and the Illinois Arts Council Agency.

For more information, visit elmhurstchoralunion.org or call (630) 758-1100.

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Thursday, Dec. 14, 2023

Rock Valley Publishing

Page 13

EAM holiday party, First Congregational Christmas Cantata

On Saturday, Dec. 16 from 1 – 4 p.m. the Elmhurst Art Museum’s annual Family Day: Holiday Party kicks off this year with hands-on art activities inspired by Picasso: Fifty Years Later, as well as hot cocoa, cookies, and a visit from Santa. Families are invited to visit the

exhibition and make holiday cards inspired by Picasso’s cubist techniques and colorful paintings. Info: elmhurstartmuseum.org or 630-8340202.

On Sunday, Dec. 17 at 10 a.m., the Music Ministry of First Congregational UCC of Elmhurst, 235

S. Kenilworth Ave., led by music minister Jim Molina, will present a Christmas Cantata, “The Gift.” All are invited to experience the story of the birth of Christ in song and word.

Admission is free; an offering will be collected to help support the Music Ministry.

GIVE THE GIFT OF TRAVEL …

Give Tahiti

SUBMITTED PHOTO Rock Valley Publishing

Meeting Mickey!

This is Cami, whose mom and dad brought her to Joyful Traditions. They are Lombard residents who came to enjoy the festivities, the fun and the food. And a visit with Santa, too!

Experiential gifts for kids The popularity of experiential gifts is undeniable. In its 2021 Winter Holiday Shopping Report, the market research firm Mintel revealed that nearly half of individuals surveyed for the report felt that experiential gifts are superior to tangible items.

Such preferences are something holiday shoppers can keep in mind as they pursue the perfect gift for their loved ones.

Experiential gifts are often associated with adults and their bucket lists, but kids have much to gain from being gifted experiences as well. In addition to the lasting memories inspired by experiential gifts, such offerings also get kids up and out of the house. Parents recognize that’s not always so easy in the digital age.

Though children likely don’t have a bucket list that can make it easy for holiday shoppers to find the perfect experiential gift, the following are a number of experiences that kids of all ages can enjoy.

• A day at the zoo • A trip to a trampoline park or bouncy house facility • Tickets to a sporting event, concert or live show • Music lessons • A paint and sip (juice) event with one or both parents • Cooking lessons • A day at a nearby national park • A camping trip • Horseback riding lessons • A day at a nearby amusement park • A day at a local arcade • A day at a local museum with interactive exhibits • A helicopter ride • Art lessons • A day on the ski slopes • A day on the beach • Gymnastics lessons/classes • A day at the local bowling alley with friends • Ice skating lessons • A round of mini golf • Jewelry-making lessons/classes • A fishing trip on a nearby body of water

Elevate the holiday spirit by gifting your special someone with an unforgettable cruise of the enchanting islands of Tahiti! Picture yourselves immersed in the allure of turquoise waters, pristine white beaches and captivating sunsets.

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Page 14

Rock Valley Publishing

Thursday, Dec. 14, 2023

A big thumbs up!

The benefits of shopping local during the holiday season

SUBMITTED PHOTO Rock Valley Publishing

Villa Park Troop 199 Boy Scouts (from left): Jimmy Schwarz, Brandon Seiler and Alex Carson gave a big thumbs up while serving up hot cider at Joyful Traditions. “I like doing this every year,” Jimmy said. “It’s fun to see all the people.”

Millions of people enjoy shopping for gifts and loved ones each holiday season. The spirit of giving is alive and well each December, and that can extend to giving back to one’s own community.

In addition to supporting local charities when making donations during the holiday season, shoppers can patronize small local businesses over big box retailers and national chains. The decision to do so can benefit communities in myriad ways.

• Small businesses inspire young entrepreneurs. The United States Department of Commerce reports that nearly half of all small business owners in the U.S. in 2018 were 54 or younger. Six percent of those owners were 34 and under.

Young entrepreneurs at the helm of thriving local businesses provide inspiration to the next generation of innovators.

• Thriving small business owners can send a positive message to traditionally underrepresented groups. The National Women’s Business Council Annual Report for 2022 indicated women-owned employer firms increased by nearly 17 percent between 2012 and 2019. Similarly, the U.S. Census Bureau’s 2021 Annual Business Survey found that there were more Hispanic-owned and minorityowned businesses in various sectors than a decade earlier. The success

of women- and minority-owned businesses sends a positive message to young entrepreneurs and locals who are part of groups that have traditionally been underrepresented in business. That can help to create a more diverse and inclusive Main Street, the success of which depends heavily on locals’ willingness to patronize locally-owned businesses.

• Shopping local supports many small business owners. Family meals and social gatherings with friends and coworkers are a big part of the holiday season, and it’s not uncommon to break bread and share a few drinks during a night on the town. Choosing to gather at a locally owned restaurant or tavern instead of a chain restaurant can have a ripple effect on an assortment of local businesses.

Local restaurants often source their ingredients from local farms. A family meal at such a restaurant benefits both the restaurant owner and the hardworking local suppliers of the food that ends up on the plate. Local restaurants also are more likely to list locally produced wines and craft beers on their menus than national chains.

That adds to the ripple effect of celebrating the holidays at a locally owned restaurant.

A thriving small business sector is vital to a strong local economy.

Shoppers can keep that in mind and patronize local businesses during the holiday season.

Our warmest wishes to you and your family for a joyous holiday season and a prosperous and healthy New Year. rbankchicago.com | 800.526.9127 448157

Thursday, Dec. 14, 2023

Rock Valley Publishing

Page 15

Get your kids healthy teeth & gums Our Comfort Care Dentistry makes going to the dentist an unexpected pleasure.

We’ve been changing people’s ideas about dentistry for a long time.

No Black Fillings! Tooth colored fillings that look pleasing.

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Rock Valley Publishing

Thursday, Dec. 14, 2023

Worship Services Directory

LAUNCHING A NEW GLOBAL METHODIST COMMUNITY IN ELMHURST

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

Sunday Worship at 10:15am Sunday School & Bible Study 9am

Gather with us for worship Saturdays 5 p.m.

Sundays 8:30 and 11 a.m.

Advent Midweek Services: Wednesdays Noon & 6:30 p.m.

Visit the Nativity Walk: Happening now thru early January

Everyone is Welcome!

142 E. Third St. Elmhurst, IL

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All services are live streamed.

You can watch them on our website or on Facebook. sainttimothy.org

ImmanuelElmhurst.org 630-832-1649

Handicapped accessible and hearing loop enabled

Come Join the Global Methodist Movement As We Create Connec�ons through Extending Christ’s Love Worship: 10 a.m. Sundays Christmas Eve Services: 10 a.m. and 11 p.m.

111 W North Avenue Elmhurst 630-941-0212

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Advent Services on Wednesday, Dec. 6, 13 & 20th at 7pm Christmas Eve Candlelight Service 5pm

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Messiah Lutheran Church 130 W. Butterfield Road Elmhurst, IL 630-279-4775

Christmas Eve Service Christmas Day 448380

at 11:00pm

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10:00am and 10:00pm

Call Brenda at 630-834-4450 or Betty at 630-627-7010

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FAITH CHURCH OF ELMHURST

St. Timothy Evangelical Lutheran Church

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Page 16

Thursday, Dec. 14, 2023

Willowbrook High School senior Joshua Lange was recently named his school’s recipient of the 88’s Best award for the month of November. Lange, who is a Lombard resident, was recognized during the District 88 Board of Education’s Nov. 13 meeting. He is pictured (right) at that meeting with Willowbrook Principal Dan Krause (left). The 88’s Best award recognizes students for their achievements in and out of the classroom. The District 88 Board of Education presents the award to nine Willowbrook students and nine Addison Trail students each school year. Krause noted during the board meeting that Lange began his freshman year during the COVID-19 pandemic, when the entire school was engaged in remote learning.

Krause said that like many other students, Lange faced several challenges during that period.

Krause praised Lange for his perseverance and hard work.

Lange has earned Honor Roll status at Willowbrook in each semester since the second semester of his sophomore year.

Lange plays the clarinet as a member of the school’s marching band. He’s also a member of Willowbrook’s Dungeons and Dragons Club.

After graduating from Willowbrook, Lange will attend the University of WisconsinMadison, where he plans to study SUBMITTED PHOTO Rock Valley Publishing paleontology.

6 Hours of Confession When was the last time you received Reconciliation?

Page 17

Worship Services Directory

448255

Lange honored with 88’s Best award for November

Rock Valley Publishing

FIRST CHURCH Sunday Morning Worship 9:30 am

There will be select times when the Sacrament will be offered in Spanish and Polish.

All Catholics are invited to receive God’s grace.

Please come to Mary Queen of Heaven 430 N. West Ave, Elmhurst, IL 630-279-5700

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232 S. York Street ~ ALL ARE WELCOME

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Saturday, December 16th 9am - 3pm

Christmas Eve Family Service 5:00 pm

Call Brenda at 630-834-4450 or Betty at 630-627-7010

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Was it recently? In the past year? A while ago?

You are invited to prepare your heart and soul for Christmas. The priests of the 15 parishes of Eastern DuPage County will be available to celebrate the Sacrament of Forgiveness of sin.

Sports

Page 18

Rock Valley Publishing

Thursday, Dec. 14, 2023

Rams split pair of conference games After pounding Streamwood, Glenbard East falls to South Elgin

Glenbard East’s boys basketball team played a pair of Upstate Eight Conference games last week. The Rams began the week with a 75-47 victory at Streamwood on Dec. 5.

Three days later, Glenbard East lost 72-61 to South Elgin in Lombard.

The Rams completed the week with an overall record of 2-6 and a conference record of 2-1.

Glenbard East led the Sabres 24-18 after one quarter of last week’s game in Streamwood. The Rams outscored the Sabres 17-4 in the second quarter to take a 41-22 halftime lead. Glenbard East widened its lead to 60-31 by the end of the third quarter.

Sophomore Michael Nee scored a team-leading 18 points for the Rams in last week’s win in Streamwood.

Nee sank two 3-point shots in the first quarter. He added one 3-pointer in the second quarter and drained his fourth 3-point basket of the game in the third quarter.

Senior Aleks Jajic provided 12 points for the Rams in their Dec. 5 win.

Senior Ari Pierson, senior Ryan Frano and junior Mateo Villalvazo added eight points each. Junior Devin Kraft and sophomore Danny Snyder supplied five points each.

The Rams led South Elgin 16-13 after one quarter of Friday’s conference game in Lombard. Glenbard East led

the Storm 26-25 at halftime.

A three-point play by sophomore Norman Loechel propelled the Rams to a 39-33 lead with 2:38 left in the third quarter. A three-point play by Nee helped Glenbard East to a 42-36 advantage with 1:48 remaining in the quarter. The Storm then went on a 9-0 run to take a 45-42 lead. A driving layup by Frano at the end of the third quarter cut South Elgin’s lead to 45-44 with eight minutes to play.

The Storm made a 3-point shot in the opening seconds of the fourth quarter. That basket began an 8-0 run for the Storm. South Elgin’s lead stood at 53-44 with 6:30 left in the game.

A basket by Snyder cut the Storm’s lead to 53-49 with 5:30 to play. South Elgin, which made four 3-point shots in the fourth quarter, made a 3-point shot to take a 59-49 lead with about 4:20 remaining.

Kraft scored a team-high 16 points for the Rams in Friday’s loss to the Storm. Snyder provided 10 points.

Jajic and Loechel contributed nine points each. Nee supplied eight points.

Pierson and Frano added six and three points, respectively.

Glenbard East’s schedule this week includes conference games against West Chicago and Fenton. The Rams will face Fenton this Friday in Lombard.

Sideline support

Chris Fox photos Rock Valley Publishing

Glenbard East’s boys basketball team faced South Elgin in Friday’s Upstate Eight Conference game in Lombard. South Elgin defeated the Rams 72-61. Junior Devin Kraft (No. 10 - above) scored a team-leading 16 points for Glenbard East. Sophomore Danny Snyder added 10 points. Senior Aleks Jajic (No. 12 - below) and sophomore Norman Loechel (No. 11 - left) contributed nine points each for the Rams, whose conference record dropped to 2-1 with the loss. Glenbard East will play a conference home game against Fenton this Friday.

Chris Fox photo Rock Valley Publishing

Glenbard East’s boys basketball team faced South Elgin in Friday’s Upstate Eight Conference game in Lombard. The players on the Rams’ bench are pictured while reacting to sophomore Michael Nee’s driving basket in the third quarter. Nee was fouled on the play. He made the ensuing free throw to complete a three-point play that gave the Rams a 42-36 lead with less than two minutes left in the quarter. The visiting Storm rallied to take a 45-44 lead by the end of the period.

South Elgin defeated the Rams 72-61. Pictured left to right on the sideline after Nee’s basket are: sophomore Sam Walton, junior Luis Martinez, sophomore Jacob Marynowski (No. 15), junior Emmitt Perryman (No. 24), senior Brett Vercruysse (No. 1), senior Gavin Bellezza (No. 23), senior Aleks Jajic (No. 12) and sophomore Danny Snyder (No. 3).

Thursday, Dec. 14, 2023

Rock Valley Publishing

Page 19

Rams improve to 4-0 in conference play

A 3-point basket from Carver Plainfield South outscored the points in Saturday’s loss. Walton and a layup by Walton reduced the Rams 11-0 to end the game. scored 10 points. Robbins scored all Carney scores 28 points in 44-35.

Cougars’ lead to 44-40.

Carney scored a team-high 16 seven of her points during the fourth quarter. Carver and Witt provided Glenbard East’s Upstate Eight three points each. Brown added one point.

The Rams’ schedule this week win at South Elgin includes conference games against

The Glenbard East girls basketball team won two Upstate Eight Conference games last week. The Rams began the week with a conference home win over Streamwood. They added a conference win at South Elgin before finishing the week with Saturday’s non-conference loss to Plainfield South in Lombard.

The Rams completed the week with an overall record of 6-2 and a conference mark of 4-0.

Glenbard East defeated Streamwood 46-30 in Lombard on Dec. 5.

The Rams led the Sabres 13-7 after one quarter and 20-16 at halftime.

Glenbard East expanded its lead to 35-22 by the end of the third quarter.

The Rams then scored seven straight points to start the fourth quarter to boost their lead to 42-22.

Senior Gabby Walton scored a team-high 12 points for the Rams in last week’s win over Streamwood.

Seniors Catey Carney and Livia Robbins added eight points each. Robbins made a pair of 3-point shots. Robbins made her first 3-pointer about 15 seconds after the opening tip-off to give Glenbard East a 3-0 lead. She made her second 3-pointer of the game in the opening seconds of the fourth quarter. Carney and Walton then added baskets to complete the Rams’ 7-0 run to start the period.

Junior Erin Brown provided six points for the Rams in the victory over the Sabres. Freshmen Lilly

Carver and Teagan Murphy scored five points each. Senior Ciara Johnson added two points.

Carney poured in 28 points to lead Glenbard East to a 64-39 conference win at South Elgin on Dec. 7. The Rams led the Storm 20-8 after one quarter and 33-19 at halftime. Glenbard East’s lead stood at 48-32 at the end of the third quarter.

Carney made two 3-point shots and scored 11 points during the first quarter. Johnson, who made five of six free throws and scored seven points during the opening quarter, finished the game with 14 points.

Brown supplied 10 points in last week’s win at South Elgin. Walton scored four points. Robbins, Carver, Murphy and junior Veronica Witt added two points each.

Glenbard East’s week ended with Saturday’s 55-40 loss to Plainfield South. The visiting Cougars led the Rams 15-9 at the end of the first quarter. The Cougars held a 21-15 halftime lead.

Plainfield South led Glenbard East 36-29 in the closing seconds of the third quarter. Carney drove down the court and made a lengthy 3-point shot as the quarter ended to cut the Cougars’ lead to 36-32 with eight minutes to play.

Plainfield South went on an 8-2 run at the start of the fourth quarter to take a 44-34 lead. Witt made a free throw with 4:12 left to cut the lead to

Broncos vs. Warriors

West Chicago and Fenton, along with non-conference battles at Willowbrook and Addison Trail.

CHRIS FOX PHOTOS Rock Valley Publishing

Glenbard East’s girls basketball team raised its Upstate Eight Conference record to 4-0 with last week’s wins over Streamwood and South Elgin. The Rams beat Streamwood 46-30 in Lombard on Dec. 5.

Two days later, Glenbard East earned a 64-39 victory at South Elgin.

The Rams finished the week with Saturday’s 55-40 non-conference home loss to Plainfield South. Glenbard East’s overall season record stood at 6-2 after Saturday’s contest. Seniors Catey Carney (No. 30 - above), Gabby Walton (No. 23 - right) and Livia Robbins (No. 11 bottom right) are pictured during Saturday’s game. Carney scored a team-high 16 points against the Cougars. Walton added 10 points.

Robbins scored all seven of her points during the fourth quarter.

Carney erupted for 28 points in last week’s win at South Elgin. Walton scored a team-high 12 points in the Dec. 5 victory over Streamwood.

CHRIS FOX PHOTOS Rock Valley Publishing

Montini Catholic’s boys basketball team faced Willowbrook in Saturday’s game in Lombard. The visiting Warriors defeated the Broncos 56-49. Willowbrook improved to 4-3 with the victory. Montini dropped to 2-7 with the loss. The same two teams squared off at Fenton’s Chuck Mitchell Thanksgiving Tournament on Nov. 24. Willowbrook earned a 48-44 win in that meeting. One photo from Saturday’s rematch shows Montini senior Tyler Pavlik (No. 4 - above left) and Willowbrook senior Kenyon Rhodes. Pavlik made three 3-point shots in the first quarter and scored a team-leading 13 points for the Broncos. Rhodes, who sank three 3-point shots in the game, provided 10 points for the Warriors. One more photo from Saturday’s battle shows Montini senior Danny Petersen (No. 43 - above right), who scored eight of his 11 points during the fourth quarter.

Page 20

Rock Valley Publishing

Thursday, Dec. 14, 2023

LEGAL NOTICES NOTICE CERTIFICATE NO. 79273 was filed in the office of the County Clerk of DuPage County on NOVEMBER 21, 2023 wherein the business firm of RAVENS PEAK MEDIA, 1107 SOUTH SUMNER STREET, WHEATON IL 60189 was registered; that the true or real name or names of the person or persons owning the business, with their respective post office address(es), is/are as follows: Adam R. Jones, 1107 South Sumner Street, Wheaton, IL 60189.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and Official Seal at my office in Wheaton, Illinois, this 21ST day of NOVEMBER, A.D. 2023.

Jean Kaczmarek DuPage County Clerk (Published in The Lombardian Nov. 30, Dec. 7 & 14, 2023) 447634 IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE EIGHTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT DU PAGE COUNTY, ILLINOIS PUBLICATION NOTICE OF COURT DATE FOR REQUEST FOR NAME CHANGE (ADULT) Request of: SHAHRUKH ZIYADULLA HALIKUL Case Number: 2023 MR 608 There will be a court date on my Request to change my name from SHAHRUKH ZIYADULLA HALIKUL to the new name of ARDIAN MORADI. The court date will be held January 17, 2024 at 9:00 a.m. at 505 N. County Farm Road, Wheaton, IL, DuPage County, in Courtroom #2007. /s/ Shahrukh Ziyadulla Halikul Dated: 11/28/2023 Candice Adams Clerk of the Circuit Court 8085-937822 (Published in The Lombardian Dec. 7, 14, & 21, 2023) 447934 NOTICE CERTIFICATE NO. 79276 was filed in the office of the County Clerk of DuPage County on NOVEMBER 30, 2023, wherein the business firm of CANTERBURY CAROLLERS, 3 WHEATON CENTER UNIT 514, WHEATON, IL 60187 was registered; that the true or real name or names of the person or persons owning the business, with their respective post office address(es), is/ are as follows: Daniel L. Miller, 3 Wheaton Center Unit 514, Wheaton, IL 60187; Lisa D. Miller, 3 Wheaton Center Unit 514, Wheaton, IL 60187.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and Official Seal at my office in Wheaton, Illinois, this 30TH day of NOVEMBER, A.D. 2023.

Jean Kaczmarek DuPage County Clerk (Published in The Lombardian Dec. 7, 14 & 21, 2023) 447982 NOTICE CERTIFICATE NO. 79279 was filed in the office of the County Clerk of DuPage County on DECEMBER 1, 2023 wherein the business firm of SUR-SEAL ASPHALT SEALCOATING AND PARKING LOT MAINTENANCE, 380 E. ST. CHARLES RD. UNIT #805, LOMBARD, IL 60148 was registered; that the true or real name or names of the person or persons owning the business, with their respective post office address(es), is/ are as follows: Rory Krabec, 1089 Beverly Ct., Lombard, IL 60148.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and Official Seal at my office in Wheaton, Illinois, this 1ST day of DECEMBER, A.D. 2023.

Jean Kaczmarek DuPage County Clerk (Published in The Lombardian Dec. 14, 21 & 28, 2023) 448393

The Lombardian Can Publish Your Legals.

Or email your legals to legals@rvpublishing.com

425145

Call 815-877-4044

A winning week for the Warriors Willowbrook picks up non-conference wins at Naperville Central and Montini Catholic

The Willowbrook boys basketball team earned a pair of non-conference road victories last week to extend its winning streak to three games.

The Warriors defeated Naperville Central 60-42 in Naperville on Dec. 6. Three days later, Willowbrook beat Montini Catholic 56-49 in Lombard.

Willowbrook improved its overall season record to 4-3 with Saturday’s victory over the Broncos. The Warriors began their season by winning one of four games at Fenton’s Chuck Mitchell Thanksgiving Tournament. Willowbrook picked up its one win of that tournament with a 48-44 triumph over Montini on Nov. 24.

Willowbrook began its West Suburban Gold Conference season, and its current three-game winning streak, with a 59-50 victory over Morton in Villa Park on Dec. 1.

The Warriors raced out to a 22-11 lead after one quarter of last week’s battle at Naperville Central. Willowbrook outscored the Redhawks 11-3 in the second quarter to take a 33-14 halftime lead. The Warriors held a 4624 advantage at the end of the third quarter.

Senior Kenyon Rhodes led Willowbrook to its win at Naperville Central by pouring in a team-high 20 points.

Rhodes made seven of eight field-goal attempts during the contest. Three of his seven baskets came from 3-point range. Rhodes made three of four shots from the free-throw line. He also grabbed seven rebounds in the game.

Sophomore Otis Powell contributed nine points and 10 rebounds in the Warriors’ win over the Redhawks.

Junior Filip Palutkiewicz, who did not miss a shot during the game, provided eight points for Willowbrook. Palutkiewicz made all three of his field-goal attempts in the Dec. 6 matchup in Naperville. He also made both of his shots from the free-throw line.

Willowbrook junior Jaden Royal scored eight points in last week’s win over the Redhawks. Sophomore Jaylen Griffin and senior Noah Boyd added seven and five points, respectively.

Senior Andrew Ciesinski contributed three points.

The Warriors trailed Montini 17-13 after one quarter of Saturday’s game, which was a rematch of the two teams’ contest from 15 days earlier in Bensenville. The Broncos led Willowbrook 23-21 at halftime of Saturday afternoon’s neighborhood battle in Lombard.

Montini senior Maddox Shepherd made a 3-point shot to give the Broncos a 33-27 lead with less than three minutes to play in the third quarter. The Warriors then finished the quarter with a 10-0 run to take a 37-33 lead with eight minutes to play. Powell launched and sank a 3-point shot as the third quarter ended.

Palutkiewicz made a corner 3-point shot to give his team a 44-39 lead with 5:20 remaining. Boyd scored 11 of Willowbrook’s final 12 points of the game. He made three baskets and sank five of seven free throws during the fourth quarter.

Boyd drove for a basket with two minutes left in the game. He was fouled on the play, and made the ensuing free throw to complete a three-point play

and push the Warriors’ lead to 51-43.

Boyd and Powell scored 15 points each in Saturday’s win at Montini.

Ciesinski and Rhodes delivered 10 points each. Rhodes made five baskets—three in the first quarter and two in the third quarter. Rhodes sank three shots from 3-point range. He netted two of those 3-point baskets during the second quarter and added one more 3-point bomb in the third quarter. Rhodes added one free throw in the fourth quarter.

Palutkiewicz tallied three points with his 3-point basket in the fourth quarter. Junior Anthony Porter provided two points with a second-quarter basket. Royal scored one point with a first-quarter free throw.

Montini senior Tyler Pavlik made three 3-point shots during the first quarter of Saturday’s game. He added two 2-point field goals during the remainder of the contest and scored a team-leading 13 points. Seniors Nick Lombardi and Danny Petersen scored 11 points each for the Broncos. Petersen, who didn’t score during the first half, made a 3-point shot in the third quarter. He then scored eight points in the fourth quarter with three baskets and a pair of free throws.

Lombardi scored five of his 11 points in the opening quarter with a 3-point basket and two free throws. He scored one basket in the third quarter and netted two more baskets in the fourth quarter.

Shepherd scored seven points for the Broncos in Saturday’s loss to the Warriors. Junior Jack Barrett added five points, while junior Max Bell scored two points with a pair of first-quarter free throws.

Montini’s overall season record fell to 2-7 following Saturday’s loss.

The Broncos lost 48-44 at Providence Catholic on Friday. Montini began the week with a 51-22 home victory over St. Rita on Dec. 5.

Willowbrook’s season continues with this Friday’s conference game at Downers Grove South. The Broncos’ schedule this week includes road games at Brother Rice and St. Francis.

CHRIS FOX PHOTOS Rock Valley Publishing

Willowbrook’s boys basketball team ran its winning streak to three games and improved its overall season record to 4-3 following Saturday afternoon’s 56-49 non-conference win at Montini Catholic in Lombard. The Warriors have beaten Montini twice this season. Willowbrook defeated the Broncos 48-44 in a game at Fenton’s Chuck Mitchell Thanksgiving Tournament on Nov. 24. The Warriors trailed Montini 33-27 in the third quarter of Saturday’s rematch. Willowbrook closed that quarter with a 10-0 run to take a 37-33 lead with eight minutes to play. Senior Noah Boyd (No. 25 - above) and sophomore Otis Powell (No. 2 top left) scored 15 points each for the Warriors in Saturday’s win. Boyd scored 11 points during the fourth quarter.

Powell drained a 3-point shot at the end of the third quarter. He made four free throws during the fourth quarter. Three days before beating Montini, Willowbrook earned a 60-42 non-conference victory at Naperville Central. Senior Kenyon Rhodes scored a team-high 20 points for the Warriors in their win over the Redhawks. Willowbrook will face Downers Grove South in this Friday’s West Suburban Gold Conference game in Downers Grove.

Warriors win one, lose two Medinger connects on four 3-point shots and scores 20 points in a conference loss at Morton

The Willowbrook girls basketball team won one of three games last week. The Warriors began the week with a 53-42 West Suburban Gold Conference victory at Proviso East on Dec. 5. Two days later, Willowbrook lost 51-29 to Lake Park in a non-conference matchup in Villa Park. The Warriors finished the week with Friday’s 54-51 conference loss at Morton.

Willowbrook fell to 3-7 overall and 2-2 in conference action following Friday’s loss to the Mustangs.

The Warriors led Proviso East 1210 after one quarter of last week’s conference game in Maywood. Willowbrook owned a 22-19 halftime lead. The Warriors outscored the Pirates 19-8 in the third quarter to build a 41-27 lead with eight minutes to play.

Junior Ayaani Gusman scored a team-leading 18 points for Willowbrook in last week’s win at Proviso East. Gusman made five baskets, including a pair of shots from 3-point range. She also sank all six of her attempts from the free-throw line.

Gusman also handed out four assists in the contest.

Senior Elle Bruschuk piled up 17 points, 12 rebounds and six assists in the Warriors’ victory over the Pirates.

Bruschuk made three shots from 3-point range. She converted six of eight free throws.

Junior Loralai McIntyre scored six points for Willowbrook in the Dec. 5 road win at Proviso East.

Senior Lillian Vish contributed five points. Senior Seyna Fall and ju-

See WARRIORS, Page 21

nior Kendall Medinger scored three points each. Junior Kristin Woods added one point.

The Warriors struggled during the first half of their Dec. 7 home game against Lake Park. The visiting Lancers held a 15-8 lead at the end of the first quarter. Lake Park outscored Willowbrook 12-0 in the second quarter to take a 27-8 halftime lead.

The Lancers’ lead stood at 41-19 at the end of the third quarter.

Bruschuk drained three shots from 3-point territory and scored a teamhigh 13 points in last week’s loss to Lake Park. Senior Kalina Henry contributed seven points for the Warriors. McIntyre scored four points, while Medinger supplied three points with a 3-point basket in the third quarter. Fall and Woods added one point each.

Morton led Willowbrook 16-5 after one quarter of Friday’s conference battle in Berwyn. Bruschuk scored all five of her team’s first-quarter points with two baskets, including a 3-point shot. Medinger caught fire during the second quarter, when she sank six baskets, including three attempts from behind the 3-point arc.

Gusman rebounded her own missed shot and scored a basket at

MONTANA & WELCH, LLC (308878) Attorneys, 11950 South Harlem Avenue, Palos Heights, Illinois 60463 STATE OF ILLINOIS, COUNTY OF DUPAGE, ss.

In the 18th Judicial Circuit Court, DuPage County, Illinois, Chancery Department, VILLAGE OF BENSENVILLE, a Municipal Corporation, Plaintiff, vs. Wah C. Chu, Royal Business Bank, Successor in interest to Pacific Global Bank, Unknown Owners and Non-Record Claimants, Case No. 2023 CH 000270.

the second-quarter buzzer to even the score at 28-28 at halftime. Morton outscored the Warriors 13-7 in the third quarter to hold a 41-35 advantage at the end of the third quarter.

Gusman buried a 3-point shot to cut Morton’s lead to 50-48 with 1:10 to play. Morton then made four of six free throws during the final 50 seconds to extend its lead to 54-48.

Medinger drained a 3-point shot as the game ended to reduce the Mustangs’ winning margin to three points.

Medinger scored a team-leading 20 points for the Warriors. She made four shots from 3-point range.

Medinger converted at least one shot from 3-point territory during each of Willowbrook’s first 10 games of the season. She made a total of 15 shots from 3-point range through 10 games.

Gusman provided 12 points in Friday’s loss at Morton. Bruschuk supplied seven points. McIntyre and Vish netted four and three points, respectively. Senior Tia Kelly and Woods scored two points each. Fall added one point with a third-quarter free throw.

The Warriors’ schedule this week includes non-conference games against Waubonsie Valley and Glenbard East, along with this Friday’s conference clash with Downers Grove South in Villa Park.

The requisite affidavit for publication having been filed, notice is hereby given you Wah C. Chu, Royal Business Bank, Successor in interest to Pacific Global Bank, Unknown Owners and Non-Record Claimants, Defendants in the above-titled suit, that said suit has been commenced in the 18th Judicial Circuit Court, DuPage County, Illinois, Chancery Division, by the said plaintiff against you and other defendants, praying for a demolition of the structure and removal of garbage and debris from the premises described as follows:

Chris Fox photos Rock Valley Publishing

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Willowbrook’s girls basketball team began last week’s action Answers with a 53-42 West Suburban Gold Conference win at Proviso East PUZZLE 1 on Dec. 5. The Warriors lost their next game, falling 51-29 to Lake Park in a Dec. 7 non-conference contest in Villa Park. The Warriors finished the week with Friday’s 54-51 conference loss at Morton. Willowbrook ended the week with an overall record of 3-7 and a conference mark of 2-2. Junior Ayaani Gusman (No. 10 - top left) scored a team-high 18 points for the Warriors in last week’s win at Proviso East. Medinger (No. 14 far left) made four 3-point shots and scored a team-leading 20 points in Friday’s loss at Morton.

Medinger drained three 3-point baskets and scored 15 points in the game’s second quarter. Gusman and Medinger are pictured during last week’s home loss to Lake Park. One more photo from that game shows Willowbrook senior Kalina Henry (No. 24 above), who scored seven points in the battle.

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OF SECTION 13, TOWNSHIP 40 NORTH, RANGE 11, EAST OF THE THIRD PRINCIPAL MERIDIAN, ACCORDING TO THE PLAT THEREOF RECORDED MAY 10, 1911 AS DOCUMENT 104212, IN DUPAGE COUNTY, ILLINOIS.

P.I.N. No’s:. 03-13-315-001 (Lots 15 and 16); 03-13-315-002 (Lot 14) Commonly known as: 118 E. Green Street, Bensenville, Illinois 60106 173 S. May Street, Bensenville, Illinois 60106

Now, therefore, unless you, the said above named defendants, file your answer to the Complaint in the said suit or otherwise make your appearance herein, in the office of the Clerk of the 18th Judicial Circuit Court of DuPage County, Illinois Chancery Department, 505 N. County Farm Road, Wheaton, Illinois 60187 on or before January 5, 2023, default may be entered against you at any time after that day and a Judgment entered in accordance with the prayer of said Complaint.

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