VR 7.3.25 by Southern Lakes Newspapers / Rock Valley Publishing

Villa Park R eview

also serving OakbrOOk Terrace

Several residents turn out to speak at village board meeting

Many residents express their disapproval of proposals to dissolve village commissions

By Chris Fox VILLA PARK REVIEW

The Villa Park Village Board’s lengthy June 23 meeting, which started at around 7 p.m. and ended at approximately 1:45 a.m. on June 24, featured public comments from more than 35 people. The meeting also included some tense exchanges between board members.

Most of the 37 people who spoke during the meeting’s segment for public comments on agenda items criticized the proposed ordinances to dissolve multiple village commissions, including the Planning and Zoning Commission, the Parks and Recreation Advisory Commission, the Environmental Concerns Commission, the Economic Development Commission, the Traffic and Safety Commission and the Video Production Commission.

Some of the ordinances that called for the dissolution of a commission called for the creation of a new commission in its place. For example, the ordinance that called for dissolving the Parks and Recreation and Advisory Commission and the Environmental Concerns Commission called for the creation of the Community Recreation Commission and the Garden Village Commission.

The village’s proposals on the June 23 meeting’s agenda also included nominations of people to serve on the potentially new commissions.

InsIde:

Patrick delivers remarks before the meeting begins Before the meeting officially began, Villa Park Village President Kevin Patrick said we wanted to take a moment to speak.

“There has been a great deal of concern and confusion circulating on social media regarding upcoming discussion and the vote on restructuring several of our village commissions,” said Patrick, who was elected village president on April 1 and sworn in on May 12. “Nothing has been finalized. The items on tonight’s agenda are first readings only.”

Patrick added that no action could be taken on the proposals until a second reading and vote took place, and that proposals required approval from a majority of board members before being enacted.

“This is not being rushed through,” said Patrick. “It’s being done publicly with process.”

Patrick went on to criticize Trustee Jorge Cordova—his opponent in the April 1 election for village president.

“What concerns me the most, however, is not the conversation; it’s the misinformation,” said Patrick. “Trustee Cordova’s public statements, particularly comparing this legal, appropriate commission restructuring to Andrew Jackson’s spoils system are not only historically misleading, but deeply inflammatory, especially coming from a sitting board member.”

Patrick claimed that he felt

threatened by Cordova’s social media posts regarding the proposals to dissolve village commissions.

“The tone and direction of these posts make me genuinely concerned for the safety of my family, my fellow board members, and the village staff, and I don’t say that lightly,” said Patrick, who went on to refer to the recent shootings in Minnesota that killed one legislator and her husband, and injured another legislator and his wife.

Residents criticize proposals to eliminate village commissions

Most of the speakers during the segment for public comments on agenda items criticized the proposals to dissolve the commissions. Some speakers also criticized how the proposals were released, with residents learning about them when the meeting’s agenda was released a few days earlier.

Multiple speakers stated the proposals were disrespectful to members of current commissions. Some of those members have spent years volunteering on village commissions.

“It was a cowardly move,” said Marianne Greco, a member of the Environmental Concerns Commission, who stated she learned of the proposal to dissolve that commission on Friday, June 20.

“We are hands-on professionals who want to give back to the community,” said Louis LeMieux, a member of the Planning and Zoning Commission.

Diane Page, who is a Lombard resident, a District 45 parent and the chair of the York Township Democratic Organization, stated that York Township Democrats supported some board members during the 2025 spring election campaign.

“Recent actions have raised concerns and left many of us feeling conflicted,” said Page during the meeting.

Eric Luedtke, a member of the village’s Planning and Zoning Commission, said the village’s proposals to dissolve some commissions and create new ones would reduce the opportunities across various commissions from 78 to 55. Luedtke said the board owes village residents the courtesy of having further discussions to address the proposals.

“Volunteers are the lifeblood of our society,” said Alesia Bailey, the former executive director of the Villa Park Chamber of Commerce. Bailey said that without the passion of volunteers, the village would not have several community events, including its Summer Festival, Joyful Traditions, and Fourth of July parade.

“You have burnt a bridge that may never be repaired,” said Bailey while addressing the board.

Villa Park resident Tom King spoke during the meeting and said he supported the proposed reorganization of village commissions. King said he’s seen first-hand the need for a more results-oriented and task-driven structure. He said that the village must emphasize accountability, clear objectives and measurable outcomes, and that the proposals create meaningful step in that direction.

Resident urges board members to “get it together”

Villa Park resident Laura Fontana spoke during the meeting and said that current volunteers on village commissions might not want to return to serve in any capacity. After

saying nothing was known about incoming commission members, she said she was not discounting anyone. Fontana then looked toward the board and said that “rolling your eyes at residents” does not help bring the community together.

“Do you realize it took over 17 minutes for all of you to vote on whether or not to move up an agenda item?” said Fontana to the board while referring to

one of the board’s discussions earlier in the meeting. “You guys, that’s pathetic. That’s like children. You folks up here— get it together. Stop with the faces. Stop with the name-calling. Stop with the social media bashing. Just stop, and learn a poker face.”

Resident Jenny McQuillan said she was deeply concerned See BOARD, Page 8

VFW Post 2801 presents awards

Villa Park Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Post 2801 and its Auxiliary recently awarded the top three young artists in their 2024-25 art contest. Kindergarten students took part in an Americanism coloring contest in which they had to color a picture of a camouflage soldier. The top three students in the contest each received a certificate, a gift card and a patriotic airplane. All of the contest’s top three finishers attend Immanuel Lutheran School in Elmhurst.

to right

Pictured left

are: (front row) Maisie Corcoran (first place), Ruby Ebersole (second place) and Malia Crane (third place); (back row) Post 2801 Auxiliary Junior Vice President Jan Bakes, Immanuel Lutheran School teacher Nancy Burden and Post 2801 Auxiliary President Jim Suchor.

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Board members engage in heated debate during discussion of social media policies

Patrick and trustees speak of division and lack of trust and respect between board members

By Chris Fox VILLA PARK REVIEW

The June 23 Villa Park Village Board meeting featured some passionate exchanges between board members as they discussed prospective social media policies for board members.

Before the start of meeting, Village President Kevin Patrick spoke and criticized Trustee Jorge Cordova for public statements Cordova

reportedly made in the previous few days. According to Patrick, Cordova compared Patrick’s proposals to dissolve some village commissions and replace them with new commissions to Andrew Jackson’s spoils system. That comparison referenced the practice of Jackson, who was the President of the United States from 1829 to 1837, in rewarding his supporters with government jobs.

Patrick described Cordova’s comparison as “deeply inflammatory.” He went on to mention the recent shootings in Minnesota in which a state representative and her husband were killed, and a state senator and his wife were seriously wounded.

“We live in a time when reckless online rhetoric carries real consequences,” said Patrick.

More than five hours into

Villa Park resident receives Montini’s Gerry Marcoux Memorial Scholarship

Montini Catholic High School recently congratulated Charlie Paciga of Villa Park (right) on earning the Gerry Marcoux Memorial Scholarship. The award, presented to a Montini student entering his/her senior year and demonstrating excellence in math, was announced this spring at Montini’s Math Awards. Paciga, who will be a senior this fall, was also honored during Montini’s Celebration of Excellence event on May 16. Additionally, Paciga was inducted into Montini’s National Honor Society in April. He is a vital member of the Bronco Math Team, helping it secure a team Illinois Council of Teachers of Mathematics (ICTM) regional championship this year, as well as a sixth-place finish at the ICTM 2025 State Championship. Gerry Marcoux joined Montini’s Math Department in 1999 (he passed away in 2009). He was a teacher and Math Team coach during his time at Montini, as well as the school’s National Honor Society moderator. He enjoyed keeping in touch with his students after their graduation and learning about their successes.

the June 23 meeting, after midnight on June 24, board members discussed their social media policies, Cordova stated that those prospective policies for board members violate First Amendment rights. Cordova referred to policy terms like “inflammatory” and “unflattering” as subjective, and deemed some items in the policies as overreach. He added that the proposed social media guidelines

would chill free speech.

Trustee Tina Konstatos spoke during the discussion. Stating that her comments were not directed solely at Cordova, Konstatos said that if board members are “on social media bashing each other,” the board and the village look bad.

“We’re going to respect each other up here,” said

See POLICIES, Page 8

Villa Park’s Independence Day Parade begins

Friday, July 4, at 10 a.m.

Villa Park Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Post 2801 will hold its annual Independence Day Parade on Friday, July 4. This year’s parade theme is “Forever United.”

The parade will begin at 10 a.m. The parade route is about 2 miles long. The parade will begin at Park Bou-

levard and Summit Avenue. The parade will proceed west on Park to Harvard Avenue, south on Harvard to Madison Street, east on Madison to Summit, then north on Summit to Park for dispersal.

Parade groups are to arrive and begin lining up at 8:30 a.m. Staging takes place from 8:30 to 9:30 a.m.

When in doubt, Villa Park residents should call 911 to help keep the village safe

If Villa Park residents see or hear something concerning and wonder if they should call 911, the answer is: YES.

Villa Park Chief of Police Todd Kubish issued a statement last week to remind residents with to call 911 with all public safety concerns.

“Unlike Chicago, DuPage County does not have a 411 or non-emergency dispatch line,” stated Kubish. “All public safety concerns— whether urgent or not—must go through 911.”

Examples of non-emergency situations that still require 911 include:

• Ongoing noise complaints, such as loud music on weekends

• Repeated illegal parking

• Public drinking

• Consistently barking dogs

•Disturbances or suspicious behavior

• General neighborhood nuisances

“Even in non-urgent cases, calling 911 allows officers to respond, assess, and ensure safety,” related Kubish. “It’s always better to have us check and find nothing wrong than to miss something important.”

Police Reports

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.

June 24

Christopher J. Hall, 43, of Villa Park, was charged with receiving, possessing, or selling a stolen motor vehicle or

essential part, and criminal damage to property at a gas station in the 1-100 block of E. St. Charles at 2:25 a.m.

Melissa E. Harris, 40, of Sauk Village, was charged with leaving the scene of an accident resulting in personal injury on the above date for an incident that allegedly occurred in the 1-100 block of W. Roosevelt on June 20.

A complainant in the 800 block of W. North reported that a subject is harassing them via telephone.

June 23

A complainant in the 300 block of E. St. Charles reported at 9:39 a.m. that an

unknown subject approached them and offered to repair damage to their vehicle. The complainant found the subject’s offer to be suspicious.

A complainant in the 700 block of E. Washington reported that a subject is harassing them via social media.

June 22

A complainant at a restaurant in the 300 block of E. Kenilworth reported at 1:33 a.m. that a subject battered them.

A complainant at a store in the 1-100 block of E. St. Charles reported that subjects removed merchandise from display shelves and left without paying.

June 21

A complainant in the 500 block of N. Ardmore reported at 11:48 p.m. that a subject is harassing them via telephone.

June 20

Jennifer Lemus Rodriguez, 19, of Villa Park, was arrested and charged on the above date for battery that allegedly occurred in the 1-100 block of E. North on May 29.

A complainant in the 1600 block of S. Ardmore reported that a subject battered them.

June 19

A complainant near Roosevelt and Summit reported

that two subjects were causing a disturbance in the roadway.

A complainant in the 400 block of N. Harvard reported that a subject threw an unknown object near their vehicle, causing damage to the vehicle.

June 18

A complainant at a business in the 1-100 block of W. North reported their vehicle was damaged while parked in the lot.

A complainant in the 400 block of N. Iowa reported at 10:27 p.m. that a subject battered them. The complainant did not wish to sign complaints.

Postmaster: Please send address changes to:

Opinion

Slices of life

Harnessing a wanderer

Over the last four-plus years I’ve given a lot of time thinking about emotions— joy, bliss, sorrow, anger and everything in-between. I’ve struggled. I’ve failed. I’ve crawled out of the rubble.

I’ve found glimmers of sunlight. I’ve had moments of success, amidst the storm clouds looming overhead.

Along the way, I believe I’ve made some discoveries and I’d like to try to share them here. They’ve provided insight for me and perhaps they can do the same for you.

I hope so.

First—and this is important—each of us has a say in how and what we feel. We impact our own emotions, by our thoughts and our actions.

For me, thoughts are much harder to control than actions, so we’ll address them first.

Our minds are beautiful, complex and scattered entities. I find it extremely difficult to control mine; it’s like it has a mind of its own.

I start out thinking about relaxing my thoughts and that morphs into ideas about a kitchen remodel, car repairs, possible birthday gifts for grandchildren, supper ideas, whether the toilets need cleaning, grocery lists, a need to go to the bathroom and my husband’s death. Not necessarily in that order.

Our thoughts are going to wander. That is a given. So we can’t (or at least we shouldn’t) beat ourselves up for something that is inevitable. What we can do is recognize the wandering. Be aware of it. Make a note of it and move on. It’s as easy as that. Don’t judge. Don’t condemn. Simply accept, let go and advance to the next moment and the next thought.

When my mind wanders toward negativity, as it is wont to do, I attempt to replace it with something more positive - like how squirrels are inherently cute and put in our backyards for a reason. (Oh, never mind you naysayers!)

Actions are as important as thoughts, and can serve to impact them.

I’ve found that my environment affects my affect. Listening to sad songs makes me sad. The news

By Jill Pertler Columnist

makes we worry. Watching a TV series (or YouTube video) that makes me laugh out loud makes me happy out loud. It’s all so obvious, I know. But when you become aware of the obvious the fix becomes, well, obvious.

Certain places tend to serve as negative reminders of less happy times. I’d avoid them if I could, but that that isn’t always possible. Recognizing certain locations may serve as triggers can help one prepare for possible emotional overload.

There are numerous actions that one can put in her arsenal to positively impact emotions. Some are even steeped in scientific support.

Exercise. Nature. Exercise in nature. Conversation and contact with people who support us in positive ways. Pets. Puppy and kitty videos (cheesy but true). Holding a baby (most especially a grand baby). Focusing on life, even when death seems to fill the room or the world. Turning off the news. Treating yourself to a manicure or facial or maybe both. Work. Helping others. Volunteering. Meditation. Journaling. Making plans for a trip or something you look forward to. Being silly. Cracking a joke. Making a gratitude list.

It sounds pretty simple, because it is. Until you are in one of life’s holes and can’t quite see it that way. In those moments, which we all have, go back to the basics.

Breathe in and then out and remember that you and you alone are in control of your thoughts. Seek out a trusted friend to share time with. Find something you enjoy and then try to smile, or even laugh. If you cry instead, that’s okay. What’s important is that you keep trying. You’ve got this.

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

Illinois: A powerhouse for innovation and America’s digital future

By Harvey Henson

Illinois has long been a hub for innovation. Our strategic location in the heart of the Midwest amidst a robust network of top-tier universities, and a rich legacy of collaboration among private, public, and academic sectors are just a few reasons innovation continues to thrive here.

Since 2014, the STEM Education Research Center at Southern Illinois University Carbondale has played a vital role in this innovation ecosystem—building, sustaining, and advancing science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) education across local, regional, and national levels.

At the heart of our mission is preparing the next generation of STEM educators and professionals and promoting STEM literacy through research, education, and service.

We believe Illinois is a powerful engine for American leadership in innovation. But

that leadership can no longer be taken for granted.

A recent report from the Lexington Institute warns that America’s technological edge is facing serious threats from global competitors— chief among them, China. The Chinese government has made its ambitions clear: to lead the digital economy. To that end, China has already invested more than $2.8 trillion in strategic technologies like artificial intelligence, while also engaging in aggressive efforts to steal American intellectual property and trade secrets.

Perhaps most alarming is China’s projected advantage in workforce development.

Over the next decade, it is expected to outproduce the U.S. by 27.5 million STEM graduates. Meanwhile, unfilled STEM positions in the U.S. continue to rise, creating critical gaps in our high-tech workforce.

This moment demands serious reflection. Are we prepared to cede leadership in digital innovation to an authoritarian regime—one that promotes AI tools rooted in censorship and revisionist history? The answer must be no. We envision a digital future built on democratic

values, grounded in facts, and supported by an open and accessible internet—where freedom of expression is a cornerstone, not a casualty.

Securing America’s tech leadership starts here in Illinois.

Our state has already made significant strides. We’re leading in emerging technologies like quantum computing, electric vehicle manufacturing, and agricultural innovation. Illinois has been recognized as a national tech hub, attracting millions in federal grants and spurring continued investment from the private sector.

But we can’t let up. What’s needed now is bold and sustained commitment from policymakers at every level—local, state, and federal—to strengthen and expand America’s innovation ecosystem.

We must accelerate investments in critical technologies such as artificial intelligence, advanced computing, and quantum science. At the same time, we must resist the urge to overregulate. While it’s important to address risks, excessive regulation can stifle the very innovation we’re

trying to foster—particularly for startups and entrepreneurs, many of whom call Illinois home. A thoughtful, measured approach to policy will ensure innovation continues to thrive here.

Equally vital is a renewed national focus on STEM education. Technology is reshaping every sector of our economy, and we must prepare students—beginning in early childhood and continuing through higher education—to be fluent in the language of the digital age. Every student deserves access to high-quality STEM learning opportunities so they can help build and lead our future.

In recent years, STEM has evolved into STEAM— adding Art to acknowledge the creativity and design thinking essential to innovation. I like to think the “A” also stands for All of Us. Because this future belongs to all of us. Building it will take all of us. And protecting it demands strong leadership and smart policy that empowers all of us.

Harvey Henson is director of STEM Education Research Center at Southern Illinois University.

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: news1@rv-

publishing.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

I saw two young girls on an e-scooter the other day. Both were under 18, so two violations, one being no more than one rider. At least they were on a sidewalk away from traffic. Also, another day, three boys on motorized bicycles rode south across the Elizabeth Street railroad crossing in the middle of the street and proceeded to turn left onto Maple while three of us were all stopped at that intersection. I was heading north and it was my turn to go; had I not seen them I would have hit at least one of them. E-scooter mania is being talked about all over these days—I heard two radio hosts joking about the rules in another suburb— ever since Lombard, at least, brought it to our attention. I even heard that Schaumburg lowered the age limit to 16, but they cannot legally do that. These e-scooters look like fun, I get that, and we must always be aware when driving a 3,000-pound-plus vehicle, but parents condoning illegal use of motorized “vehicles” will be the first to go ballistic when their kid gets hurt, or worse.

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To the “rant” responder, no, I was not the original commenter, I was just pointing out that the original comment (about getting a discount for self-checkouts) could have been in jest; and of course, humor and sarcasm solve nothing, but can give at least one person a smile for the day. And to the caller who commented on my call about the dog poop in my garbage can,

the can was not at the curb but in the driveway by my house, so someone (I doubt it was any of my neighbors) had to come up on private property to deposit the bag of dog poop. And yes, it did stink. That’s how I noticed it was there, at the bottom of the empty garbage can. Again, I was grateful I didn’t find the dog poop in my yard, but next time, don’t trespass or at least double bag it.

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Somebody complained in Speak Out that your newspaper is liberal-leaning. Stop and think for a minute; who do we have in our area representing us who is a Republican? If you know of any, please encourage them to lend their voice with op-ed pieces in the paper to balance things out. And in Speak Out itself, it seems to lean toward conservative thought, whether one likes Trump or not. The few who make anti-Trump comments do so with vindictiveness, name-calling and other diatribes.

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I see supreme leader Trump has gotten us into the Middle East conflicts and those of you who have children or grandchildren, start prepping them for the return of the draft. Going to need a lot of young men and women to sacrifice themselves for our supreme leader. Over and out.

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I noticed there was a senator from Arizona, Mark Kelly, a Democrat, who criticized Trump after the bombing of the nuclear sites in Iran. He

How Speak Out works

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• 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.

said, quote, “It’s always the person without combat experience that’s the first to suggest dropping a bomb.” Let’s look at the record of Barack Obama, who also never served in the military. In 2016 alone, over 26,000 bombs were dropped, authorized by Obama without Congressional approval, primarily in Syria and Iraq, but also in Afghanistan, Libya, Yemen, Somalia, and Pakistan. Look it up if you don’t believe me.

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I thank the publishers and the sponsors involved of the Villa Park Review for inserting the paper U.S. flag with the text “Land of the Free, Home of the Brave,” and “Proud to be an American” emblazoned on the banner in the June 26 issue. I will be proud to hang this from my front window.

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I’m calling in response to the person who called in and was giving shade to the park district about building the MMAC in 2018 without asking for permission. They don’t need to, just as School District 44 spent tens of millions on an early childhood center and the Connect 44 buildings of which the Connect 44 building our kids can’t use because they have it rented out; and what the village is going to do when they spend millions on a new firehouse. This is the reason we have elected officials—to represent the community. Looks like we need to teach civics lessons better in our high schools for our residents.

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It is refreshing to have the transparency in government that we have with the present compared to the last four years. I felt sorry for the White House press secretaries under Biden who tried to keep a straight face reporting to the news media. It is easier to report truth and facts than smoke and mirrors. Thank you.

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Regarding the not-enoughto-worry about contributor in the June 26 issue of Speak Out complaining of MAGA signage not being removed after elections. I’m in Villa Park, too. I haven’t noticed any election signage you mentioned anywhere in the village. I do see Trump/conservatism support indicators throughout our town, on private property, and these are well within the property owner’s rights to display what they please as long as it’s not offensive or grossly distasteful. How about the person down the block

from me who still has a Harris-Walz bumper sticker on their Prius? I chuckle at that, but I support their right to display it. Your obvious bigotry, prejudice and intolerant tendencies toward another’s First Amendment right to nonviolent expression is at best, as one wicked person once said, “deplorable.” Don’t put the blame on the village for this one. Maybe you can muster the courage to knock on your neighbor’s door and initiate a civil discussion about your partisan concerns. But I doubt you will.

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Regarding the Illinois $55 billion budget (a nearly $15 billion increase since Pritzker took office), including $1 billion in new tax increases, we need to hold our legislators’ feet to the fire and have them explain their rationale for sucking up so much more of our money. This is out of hand. I heard one Republican senator from another county say “Republican-led efforts to provide tax relief to Illinois families were blocked. While the budget continues to fund programs for noncitizens it underfunds services for Illinoisans with intellectual and developmental disabilities.” You know, our illustrious presidential-wannabe Pritzker was quoted in April as saying, “Never before in my life have I called for mass protests, for mobilization, for disruption. But I am now.”Maybe it’s time for Republicans to do the same and stop this outrageous spend-then-tax mentality. Speak up. Contact your legislators and hold them accountable for agreeing to this massive budget. And, by the way, I got my federal income tax refund in a week after filing. As of the middle of June, I still haven’t gotten my refund from the state.

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Krishnamoorthi, Duckworth, Casten and Durbin all said Iran should not have nukes yet trounced on Trump’s way of handling it. Fair enough. However, they all espouse solving the problem through “diplomatic” measures—without even saying how they would do that. Elaborate, please, on how you would accomplish that. Other countries agreed that Iran had to be stopped, but where were they when it came time to take part in this stop-the-nukes offensive? Their words don’t mean much without action. I am tired of always having the U.S. be the world’s police, peacekeeper, etc. and at the risk of our own service men

Coming event

Summer food drive

Members of the St. Vincent de Paul Conference at Sacred Heart will be holding a Summer Food Drive. The

and women; and the financial impact.

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All you Democrats who plan to vote for JB Pritzker again must be well off. You can afford all these tax increases and new taxes so he and his minions can keep on spending. I bet you don’t think about those of us who are living on the edge as prices keep rising here because of the new and increased taxes, like another gas tax hike on July 1. He kindly declined to raise gas taxes one year, so does he get an “atta boy”? I am sure it was made up somewhere else. Please keep the rest of us in mind when it is time to vote. And as for our legislators, you are just as responsible—but then you keep giving yourselves these cushy raises that most of us can only dream about, and that we pay for. And not one of you has spoken out in defense of the tax increases or your raises. Why not?

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Does anybody else think these e-scooters are getting out hand? There are local and state laws, but will they ever be enforced? Must be 18 years old, wear a helmet, have insurance? My fear is it will take a fatality to make any changes. They are dangerous, go too fast, disregard traffic laws, underage riders, no helmets, etc. Please follow the laws and think before buying one for your child.

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As usual, the opinions of our vaunted leaders (Krishnamoorthi, Casten, Duckworth and Durbin) were given the opportunity to attack the president’s actions against Iran last week through this paper’s op-ed. As usual, the transparent partisanship shined through. The congressmen are complaining because they weren’t consulted beforehand, obviously a blow to their inflated egos. This was a mission necessarily carried out in secret. Can anyone convince me that if Trump consulted Congress to authorize a mission he had complete authority to enact, that with all the Trump haters on the left, that it would have remained a secret mission? Doubtful, and would have put our military at grave risk. As for his authority to approve such a mission, not many people remember when Clinton in the ’90s and Obama in 2011 exercised their authorities to attack/ bomb their respective enemy countries at the time without Congressional approval. But

not a peep of protest from the Democratic Congress in either case. Again, please stop the partisan harangues at your every convenience. And as for our senators, I thank Ms. Duckworth for her service and sacrifice, but she is wrong; the mission was not illegally carried out. As for Durbin, I won’t miss you.

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Here’s a Speak Out comment from the April 24 paper, about two months ago. “This is Lombard calling. This is to all the Republicans who voted for Trump and are using Musk on top of Trump to destroy the United States with the stock market going down 4,000 points in two days, and everybody’s 401K is destroyed. I hope everybody who voted for Trump is happy. Thank you.” The Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJIA) did drop about 4,000 points between April 2 and April 8. From April 8 to June 26, it’s up more than 5,700 points. For the year to date, as of June 26, the DJIA is up nearly 1,000 points. Maybe everybody’s 401K was not destroyed, and I’d say most of us Trump voters are indeed happy. Thank you.

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So much of the news is the Democrats versus the Republicans. We are all Americans and should be patriots like the people who built our country in the past. Together we stand, divided we fall. Thank you.

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My new worry is that Iran will now secretly start working on biological weapons. What’s to stop them? Or China? Or Russia?

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I saw the comments by Sean Casten, Raja, Tammy Duckworth and Dick Durbin (Opinion, June 26 issue). They all are opposed to Trump ordering the bombing of Iran’s nuclear facilities. What a shock. And here’s another shocker. Casten wants Trump impeached.

I’ve lost count how many times Mr. Climate Change has called for Trump to be impeached. I hate to break the news to these regressive leftist windbags like Casten, but Trump didn’t need Congressional authorization to bomb Iran’s nuclear facilities. A president’s Article II powers include the authority to order the use of military force to defend the United States. Presidents of both parties have used U.S. military power in the past without congressional authorization.

food drive will be completely hands free for those coming to donate food or money. There will be drive thru lanes where volunteers will pick up contributions from your vehicle. When: Saturday, July 12, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the church parking lot, 114 S. Elizabeth St., Lom-

bard. Business donations are also welcome. Contact Dennis Jensen at (630) 346-0062 for more information.

DuPage County State’s Attorney’s Office launches Animal Protection Unit

DuPage County State’s Attorney Bob Berlin has announced the formation of his office’s new Animal Protection Unit, which will be com-

prised of a dedicated team of specially trained assistant state’s attorneys focused on enhancing prosecutions of crimes committed against an-

Defender Award.

imals.

Partnering with law enforcement agencies, DuPage County Animal Services and the community, the unit will provide a comprehensive, focused approach to the successful prosecution of animal cruelty cases. Additionally, by recognizing the link between animal abuse and domestic violence, the unit will also provide further legal protections for citizens who may be at risk of domestic violence.

“The creation of our new Animal Protection Unit is a significant step forward in the fight against animal cruelty in DuPage County and it aligns with growing national efforts to strengthen protections for animals and others who may reside in the home and be at risk, such as spouses, domestic partners, children or the elderly.” Berlin said.

In addition to prosecuting criminal cases, the Animal Protection Unit will engage in public outreach and education

efforts among law enforcement agencies to raise awareness about the importance of responsible pet ownership, animal welfare laws and resources available for those who need assistance with animal care.

The unit will also advocate on behalf of animal victims who cannot speak for themselves as well as file petitions for forfeiture of companion animals found to be in harm’s way.

“By providing the neces-

sary resources and dedicated attention to these cases, the Animal Protection Unit will ensure that offenders are held accountable and that animals in DuPage County receive the love, care and protection they deserve,” Berlin added.

Assigned to the unit are Assistant State’s Attorneys Nicole English, Alyssa Rabulinski, Anthony Irsuto, and Samantha Musick. The unit will be supervised by Assistant State’s Attorney Lee Roupas.

Pritzker launches third-term reelection bid

By Ben Szalinski and Andrew Adams

CaPiTol news illinois

GOP criticizes campaign as ‘stepping stone’ for a presidential run pensive,” but taking a shot at Republicans, said enacting budget cuts to key government programs like Medicaid that make life more affordable for people shouldn’t be the solution.

In a hot gymnasium on Chicago’s South Side, Gov. JB Pritzker announced last week he’s running for a potentially historic third term as governor.

In his announcement speech, Pritzker said he is running to “protect” the story he’s been telling about Illinois—one that has been built largely in opposition to the politics of President Donald Trump.

Pritzker said his third term would focus on grappling with artificial intelligence, addressing the rising cost of living, continued spending on infrastructure and growing the state’s economy.

The field house at Grand Crossing Park where Pritzker launched his first campaign hosted a crowd of Pritzker’s invited supporters, including Democratic party officials, campaign operatives and long-time Pritzker supporters.

Pritzker’s message has often focused on what Demo-

crats need to do to win and push back on Trump, including addressing economic issues for the middle class and being outspoken against Trump’s policies.

“While it is certainly tempting to lay all of this at the feet of the megalomaniac narcissist in the White House and his malignant clown car in Congress, the hard truth is, we all share some of the blame,” Pritzker said.

The governor said “we must reckon with the fact that everything is too damned ex-

Rotary club installs officers

The Lombard Rotary Club held its installation dinner on Thursday, June 26, at Avanzare Italian Restaurant in Lombard. The service organization was formed in November 1963, and is made up of Lombard-area community, government and business leaders. The club’s website says its mission, through the work of its members, is to “promote integrity, and advance world understanding, goodwill and peace.” Pictured in one photo (top left - left to right) are outgoing President Tod Altenburg, incoming President Barb Kruser and Treasurer Greg Young. In another photo (top right - left to right) are board members Steve Flint, Dennis McNicholas, Altenburg, Kruser, Connie Gessner and Kathy Volpe. The club meets at Ki’s Steak and Seafood, 705 North Ave., Glendale Heights, on Thursdays at 12:15 p.m. Visit www.lombardrotary.org for more information.

The governor also said a third term would continue his past efforts to protect abortion rights, diversity programming in the private sector and teachers’ ability to teach “uncensored history.”

Pritzker’s progressive stances on hot-button national issues are part of what has grown his national profile since President Donald Trump took office in January.

The governor has been one of the president’s most vocal Democratic critics and his schedule has been loaded with national media interviews and campaign speeches around the country.

From reelection to presidential election?

A successful reelection could set the stage for a bigger one: Pritzker’s speculated 2028 presidential campaign.

Pritzker on June 26 downplayed the possibility when speaking to reporters but didn’t explicitly rule it out.

“Everything that I do, truly everything that I do, in my job and every day when I wake up is about improving the lot of the people who live in the state of Illinois, lifting up the working families of Illinois,” Pritzker said. “Whatever I do going forward is going to be about that.”

He had a small taste of presidential campaigning last year when he was considered as a running mate for former Vice President Kamala Harris, then served as a surrogate.

“You don’t get on that list unless they think you actually could be president of the United States and do the job if you had to,” Pritzker told reporters last year.

As some Democrats have tried finding a centrist message, Pritzker has stayed in the left lane. He condemned politicians, without mentionSee PRITZKER, Page 14

Jane Charmelo PhoTos Rock Valley Publishing

submiTTed PhoTo Rock Valley Publishing

State’s Attorney Bob Berlin with Assistant State’s Attorney Alyssa Rabulinski, who was honored with the 2022 Animal Legal Defense Fund’s Top Animal

Pritzker OKs changes to Prisoner Review Board following years of controversy

New law comes after governor’s opposition stalled a broader measure last year

By Ben Szalinski Capitol news illinois

Gov. JB Pritzker signed a new law June 20 to make a series of changes to the Prisoner Review Board after it released a man who would go on to commit murder, leading to intense scrutiny in Springfield.

Pritzker signed Senate Bill 19, which contains changes designed to include victims’ participation in Prisoner Review Board decisions and ensure more board members have relevant law enforcement or judicial experience.

The law gives victims the right to file impact statements ahead of hearings, provides them with additional notice when their offender is granted early release, and allows them to seek an order of protection against an offender who is incarcerated.

It also creates the Office of the Director of Victim and Witness Services within the PRB, which would ensure the board complies with victims’ rights. The measure also mandates the board provide victims with contact information for the State Victim Assistance Hotline.

“The bulk of this bill is focused on … making sure that victims, survivors, are more engaged in the process at PRB because unfortunately, too often, we’ve heard from victims and family members that they simply haven’t been given a voice in this process,” bill sponsor Rep. Will Guzzardi, D-Chicago, said when the bill passed the House last month.

The bill was approved by the Senate in April on a 33-22 vote, with some Democrats opposing it. The House vot-

Coming events

Blood drive July 12

The Fr. Boecker Council 6090/Christ the King Council 10027 will host a Versiti blood drive Saturday, July 12, from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, 114 S. Elizabeth St., Lombard, in the Parish Center. Appointments are appreciated but walk-ins will be welcome. Bring a photo ID. To schedule, visit www.versiti.org/ IL or call 800-7TO-GIVE.

Donate blood and receive a Versiti pickleball set while supplies last.

Children’s Victorian Cottage Tour

Join the Lombard Historical Society(LHS) for a brandnew tour designed especially for children ages 4-10 on July 9 at 11 a.m., with a fun and

interactive experience at the Victorian Cottage. This tour is all about active participation, with plenty of fun and handson activities to keep them engaged and learning. Perfect for young history buffs or families looking for an interactive museum experience, this tour brings the Victorian era to life in a way that’s both educational and fun. The cost is $3 per child and adults are free. To register, visit LombardHistory.org. For more information about the event or the Lombard Historical Society, visit LombardHistory.org, email info@lombardhistory. org, or call 630-629-1885.

Plum Library program

Managing Debt with Lombard Bank & Trust Wednesday, July 9, at 6 p.m. Gain the

ed 74-37 along party lines to send the bill to Pritzker’s desk in May. Republicans, who had for months been calling for broader reforms, criticized the bill.

Pritzker’s signature comes just two weeks after a man released by the PRB was found guilty of murdering 11-yearold Jayden Perkins at his Chicago home in March 2024.

Crosetti Brand was released from prison in 2023 after serving a sentence for a domestic violence conviction. After his release, Brand began threatening a former partner, Laterria Smith, and showed up to her home in February 2024, according to the Chicago Sun-Times. Brand was sent back to prison for violating the conditions of his release, and Smith filed for an order of protection. But a Cook Coun-

ty judge denied the order because Brand was behind bars.

On March 12, 2024, the PRB voted to release Brand citing a lack of evidence to keep him behind bars, the Sun-Times reported. The next day, Brand confronted Smith at her home and stabbed her and her son, Perkins, multiple times. Smith survived but Perkins did not. Brand was found guilty of first-degree murder and 16 other counts earlier this month.

Two board members, including the chair, resigned after Perkins’ death. Smith sued the board for negligence in March.

The case put even more scrutiny on the board, which was already in the spotlight over other controversial de-

See BOARD, Page 17

RUTH ANN JESSUP, 87 Ruth Ann Jessup (née Garafolo), 87, passed away surrounded by loved ones at her home on Saturday, June 21. A celebration of life will be held at a later date.

Arrangements by Brust Funeral Home, 135 S. Main St., Lombard, IL 60148. 888-629-0094.

ANNA MAE L. SCAHILL, 96

Anna Mae L. Scahill nee Smerz, age 96, 70-year Lombard resident, passed away June 22, 2025.

Funeral Services were held Thursday, June 26, 2025, at 135 S. Main St., Lombard. Interment followed at Queen of Heaven Cemetery, Hillside. Info: www.brustfuneralhome.com or 888629-0094.

tools and knowledge needed to successfully manage debt and regain control of your financial future. Perfect for anyone who wants to learn more about budgeting, reducing debt and achieving financial freedom. Register at helenplum.org or by calling (630) 627-0316.

Music on Maple Street July 11 Jukebox Hero, July 11, at

the William Mueller Gazebo, 23 W. Maple St., Lombard, at 7 p.m. Reserve your spot at lombardhistory.org.

Ribbon cutting at Prairie Food Cooperative July 9

Come out and be one of the first to shop at the soft opening of the new Prairie Food Cooperative, 837 S. Westmore-Meyers Road, Lombard. The ribbon cutting will take place at 11 a.m.

• Board

about the proposed changes to the village’s commissions. She said the current commission members should be respected.

McQuillan said that only one existing commissioner was being re-appointed to one of the proposed new commissions.

“Why wipe the slate clean?”

asked McQuillan, who suggested that an open call for applicants would be preferable to appointments from Patrick.

Tricia Little, a member of the Traffic and Safety Commission, accused Patrick and Village Trustee Jack Kozar of colluding together to dissolve village commissions and create new ones.

“Seeing a political purge happening in real time in my cute little hometown feels pretty ugly,” said Little.

Villa Park resident Ann Tranter, who noted that she is a former member of the Elmhurst City Council, criticized the recently formed seven-member village board, which contains a new village president and two new trustees.

“The very first and foremost thing that should have been done was to obtain trust in this community, and people don’t trust you anymore,” said Tranter while addressing the board.

“You’ve done some bone-headed moves.”

Jason Jarrett, the current chair of Villa Park’s Planning and Zoning Commission, spoke during the meeting and noted that he has served under six village presidents, six community development directors and four village managers. He urged the board not to dissolve the commission.

“Dissolving the commission and removing its membership in its entirety as proposed

• Policies

threatens to set back the trend of development in the village by years, while increasing the risk of legal actions against the village,” said Jarrett.

Resident John Brett spoke after Jarrett and criticized the proposal to dissolve multiple commissions.

“You’re throwing everyone out who came here because of their passion, their caring, their desire to make this a better place to live for them and their children,” said Brett, who then addressed Patrick directly.

“You can say, President Patrick, that you’re following the law, but look what you’ve created,” said Brett. “You’re following the law, but you did it in the wrong way. You did it in a way where you’ve angered some of your more vocal constituents, and now they’re out here, and not many people are on your side.”

Two former village trustees speak out against proposals

Jack Corkery, who left the Villa Park Village Board in May after serving as a village trustee for four years, also spoke during the meeting’s segment for public comments on agenda items.

“I think it is deeply pathetic that a bunch of grown adults with children at home have nothing better to do with their limited time on this earth than put together a Stalinist purge of the Villa Park Parks and Recreation Commission,” said Corkery, who went on to refer to what he described as division, infighting, nastiness and meanness on the board.

“And I believe it’s because a lot of the members on the board are very thin-skinned and

(Continued from page 3) Konstatos. “Don’t make accusations. Don’t put misinformation out there.”

More than five hours after the meeting began, Patrick once again referred to Cordova’s comment referencing Andrew Jackson’s spoils system.

“I already told you once that we are not going to be intimidated by harassment online,” Patrick said to Cordova. “I’m not going to be harassed by personal text messages by you making fun of my mental health. We are not going to take this anymore, and we are not going to get bullied.”

After Patrick finished speaking to Cordova, Trustee Cari Alfano addressed Cordova.

“It’s also really dangerous, because, I don’t want to make this personal, but you put my name out there,” said Alfano, apparently referring to a social media post by Cordova.

“I now have messages in my inbox threatening me, threat-

take offense very easily,” added Corkery.

Another former village trustee—Robert Wagner—spoke during the meeting. Wagner, who is the chair of the village’s Environmental Concerns Commission, said the commission should have been notified about its potential dissolution.

“If you would have taken the time to reach out to the commissions, that would have been so much better than what happened here,” said Wagner as he addressed the board. “You’ve done some damage. People don’t trust you. They don’t trust you. They feel like they’ve been betrayed.”

Tammy Henderson noted that she had been appointed to serve on a proposed new commission (the Community Recreation Commission). She said she was excited to be asked to serve, but after hearing several comments during the meeting, she wasn’t sure if she was excited anymore. She said she appreciated all the time that current commission members had given, and that she wanted to work with all of them.

“The best way to insure you do not have volunteers is to treat the volunteers the way you did,” said Kristina Bostian, who stated that the proposal to dissolve village commissions was disrespectful of the volunteers who have served on those commissions.

“You have made these people feel useless,” Bostian said. “You didn’t ask for their opinion. You didn’t ask for their input.”

Leslie Allison-Seei, who was appointed to serve on the proposed Villa Park Growth Commission, spoke and said that nothing has been decided

regarding the proposals to dissolve commissions. She added that no one on the board gets to make those decisions alone; they have to be made by a majority of board members. Allison-Seei said that she was pretty sure there would be a second reading for the proposals, and that “Everybody needs to calm down.”

“This whole thing is out of control,” said Danielle Weis, who thanked all commission members for their service. Weis said that the process to introduce the proposals to dissolve village commissions might not have been done well. She added that she was fearful of the backlash that appointees to newly proposed commissions might receive.

Debbie DeMito, the owner of DeMito’s Saloon in Villa Park, stated she has been a resident of the village for 60 years. She asked why the village would want to lose any volunteers.

“Listen to your residents; we are speaking up,” added DeMito, who said the village should thank commission members who have donated their time and energy.

“We are a great community; don’t divide us,” said DeMito to the board.

Patrick states he is responsible for proposals

After all of the speakers on agenda items had addressed the board, Patrick stated that he was responsible for the proposals regarding the dissolution of village commissions.

“I know it might not show now, but I do value and respect all of our volunteers,” said Patrick. “You are the bloodline of Villa Park. You always will be.”

Patrick went on to add that he is a disabled veteran.

“I was diagnosed with PTSD [Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder] for my time in service,” said Patrick, who served in the United States Coast Guard. “You might be able to say I’ve seen some things. But I’m proud of my service to my country, and I’m proud of my service here in Villa Park.”

Patrick added that he has lived in Villa Park for over 30 years. He also mentioned that he makes $100.87 every two weeks in his role as village president.

“I don’t do it for the money. I do it because I care. I care about Villa Park. I am responsible for these proposals before you tonight. Don’t blame these trustees for these proposals.”

Kumar suggests tabling matter to an upcoming meeting; trustees vote to discuss the proposals at their committee-of-the whole meeting to take place July 14

Later in the meeting, when board members discussed the proposals to dissolve commissions, Trustee Deepasriya Kumar suggested tabling the proposals to a future meting to allow for further discussion. Kumar said that the board has been rushing its decisions lately.

Trustee Cari Alfano said during the June 23 meeting that the board should discuss the proposals during that meeting.

Kozar said it didn’t make sense to table discussion on the proposals to a future meeting.

“After everything I’ve heard tonight from Trustee

Kumar and Trustee Cordova, it doesn’t make sense to move this, because everybody’s here tonight to talk about this,” stated Kozar. “And now the two proponents that were rallying people to come here tonight to have discussion on this topic don’t want to hear any discussion on this topic tonight.” Kozar added that the board was considering the proposals on a first reading, and that those proposals would be back on the agenda at the board’s next meeting. If board members chose at that next meeting to table it or discuss it further, they could do so.

“It makes no sense to, at 10:30, after basically three hours of comments from our residents, that now two trustees that wanted all those comments don’t want to talk about it anymore,” said Kozar.

Cordova said the board should consider the feedback from residents and rearrange the rollout of the proposals.

“The overwhelming response today for the last three hours has been, we kind of fumbled this one,” said Cordova. “We need to take it back, and then re-roll it out.” Kumar stated she did not ask anyone to speak at the meeting, and that she did not post any comments on social media urging residents to attend the meeting.

Board members eventually voted 5-1 to discuss the proposals at their upcoming committee-of-the-whole meeting on July 14. Kozar cast the lone vote against the motion. Patrick did not vote on the motion. Alfano, Cordova and Kumar joined Trustee Tina Konstatos and Trustee Khalid Sabri in voting for the motion.

ening my kid, threatening my family; and that’s because of things that you’ve put out there, because your words matter, sir. You sit in a seat, sir, that puts you as a leader.”

Trustee Deepasriya Kumar stated that freedom of speech is very important, and that social media can be a venue to connect with residents. She then lamented the multiple disputes between board members.

“This board has become defunct,” said Kumar, who may have meant to describe the board with a similar word—dysfunctional.

“We’ve become mean to each other, and I’m not talking about Trustee Cordova,” added Kumar. “I’m talking about all of us. Since the [April 1] election, there is a glass wall between part of our board and the other part of our board, and I do not know where that glass wall came from, but it feels uncomfortable, and it

does not make me happy.”

Cordova referred to the proposed social media policies, which called for trustees refraining from inflammatory comments, and wondered if such comments would be allowed during board discussions.

“We’ll just do it up here?” Cordova asked. “Isn’t that what just happened right now?”

Patrick then read a text message he reportedly received from Cordova. Patrick did not say when Cordova sent the message, but suggested it came during the recent campaign for village president. Patrick defeated Cordova (2,147 votes to 1,604 votes) in the April 1 election to serve a four-year term as village president. Patrick, who spent the last six years as a village trustee, was sworn in as Villa Park’s new village president on May 12. He succeeded Nick Cuz-

zone, who did not seek a second term.

“When you get messages such as, ‘I watched the playback because things felt off with you yesterday, and I didn’t want to alarm your wife at Jewel today about what’s clearly a decline. I’m a mental health advocate, and it’s obvious you’re dealing with some kind of disorder or disorders. If you need help, let me know. I can connect you with support. Between your scattered questions, lack of focus, constantly seeking validation from the same person in the crowd, and your inability to flip through papers without fumbling like a 6-year-old, it’s clear, get help if you need it. As a friend, Jorge Cordova.’”

“These sort of things do not build trust. That is uncalled for,” added Patrick, who prepared to read what he stated was another text Cordova sent during the campaign. Cordova

asked Patrick to read another text message out loud—one in which Cordova congratulated Patrick after the election and said he looked forward to working with him.

Later in the meeting, Kumar continued to discuss conflicts between board members.

“We are not well-liked as a board, and I’m including all of us,” said Kumar. “We have been very, very acerbic to each other. We are making comments back and forth.”

Kumar added that she didn’t feel a team ethic on the board, and that the dysfunction on the board was unfair to village staff members and to residents. She said board members need to engage in some team building.

During the meeting’s segment for trustees’ reports, Cordova thanked the many residents who attended the meeting and addressed the board.

“Engagement is a cornerstone of community,” said Cordova near the conclusion of the meeting. “Hearing from constituents is important.” Cordova said that if a movement to encourage residents to attend board meetings starts on social media, so be it.

“I will promise you guys I can be a little better on social media,” said Cordova. “I will admit that it does get a little heated out there.”

In the meeting’s closing minutes, Patrick said he recently deactivated his Facebook page, and that he’d been avoiding social media for the last few weeks.

“Maybe we rely on it [social media] a little too much,” said Patrick, who added that he has been more confident and more focused since he avoided social media. Patrick then challenged the board’s other members to try taking a break from social media.

Worship

IC CATHOLIC PREP INVESTS IN EXCELLENCE

State-of-the-art Science Labs

This summer, IC Catholic Prep began construction on three new state-ofthe-art science labs, along with a new work/ prep room to support our growing STEM programs. These exciting academic upgrades reflect our unwavering commitment to excellence in education and innovation. The new labs will provide students with hands-on, collaborative learning opportunities in a modern, professional environment. At ICCP, we continue to invest in the future of our students, both in and out of the classroom. Visit Instagram.com/iccatholicprep to take a virtual tour of our new classrooms!

New Turf at Plunkett Athletic Complex

IC Catholic Prep is excited to announce major upgrades to the Plunkett Athletic Complex, including brand new turf for the football, baseball, and a newly added softball field. These enhancements reflect our strong commitment to providing topquality facilities for our student-athletes. The addition of a dedicated turf softball field and the resurfacing of the existing baseball and football fields will create a safer, more reliable, and versatile environment for training and competition. We can’t wait to see our Knights take the field and make the most of these exciting improvements!

Welcome back, Jonathan Toews

Although Jonathan Toews is no longer a member of the Chicago Blackhawks, Hawks fans were out in full force Sunday at Mike’s Sports N More at the Yorktown Shopping Center to greet the three-time Stanley Cup champion forward. Toews signed autographs and various memorabilia—including his No. 19 jersey—and posed for photos with fans. Toews, the Hawks’ team captain during their Stanley Cup championship seasons (2010, 2013 and 2015), spent 15 years with the Hawks. However, various health issues—including chronic inflammatory response syndrome (CIRS) and long COVID—caused Toews to miss several games during the 2021-22 and 2022-23 seasons. The Hawks announced that the team would not re-sign Toews after his contract expired at the end of the 2022-23 season. Toews missed each of the next two seasons to concentrate on his health. On June 20, the Winnipeg Jets announced Toews would be joining the team for the 2025-26 season. He signed a one-year contract with the Jets, which became official on Tuesday.

mike sandrolini PHoTos Rock Valley Publishing

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. Notes

6. Long-haired dog breed

12. ESPN’s nickname

16. Spanish be

17. Disadvantage

18. Of I

19. Actor Pacino

20. On your way: __ route

21. Fifth note of a major scale

22. Companies need it

23. News agency

24. Faces of an organization

26. Ponds

28. Samoa’s capital

30. Partner to “Pa”

31. Adult male

32. Cool!

34. Used of a number or amount not specified

35. No No No

37. Hosts film festival

39. British place to house convicts

40. Made of fermented honey and water

41. Chief

43. College army

44. Thyroid-stimulating hormone

45. Consume

47. One point north of due east

48. For instance

50. Brews

52. Alaskan river

54. Not soft

56. Atomic #22

57. “The Golden State”

59. “The world’s most famous arena”

60. Larry and Curly’s pal

61. One billion gigabytes

62. Conducts inspections

63. Malaria mosquitoes

66. Unit to measure width

67. Features

70. Affairs

71. Letter of Semitic abjads

Follower of Islam

2. Trauma center

3. French young women

4. Norse god

5. U.S. commercial flyer (abbr.)

6. Merchant

7. Peyton’s younger brother

8. Jungle planet in “Star Wars” galaxy

9. Tree-dwelling animal of C. and S. America

10. “Pollack” actor Harris

11. Stuck around

12. Put on

13. Influential Norwegian playwright

14. Christian __, designer

15. Fulfills a debt

25. Style

26. More (Spanish)

27. A baglike structure in a plant or animal

29. Remedy

31. Disturbance

33. “The Martian” actor Matt

36. Express delight

38. Brooklyn hoopster

39. 1900 lamp

41. Motionless

42. One’s mother (Brit.)

43. Relative biological effectiveness (abbr.)

46. Compels to act

47. Gardening tool

49. Ancient country

51. Frightening

53. Wimbledon champion Arthur

54. Popular plant

55. Database management system

58. Gasteyer and de Armas are two

60. Where soldiers eat

64. Tenth month (abbr.)

65. Illuminated

68. Atomic #18

69. Adults need one to travel

Inside Illinois’ efforts to court the emerging quantum technology industry

Japanese business delegation visits Chicago, local research park breaking ground ‘soon’

By Andrew Adams Capitol news illinois

Last year the state approved spending more than $700 million to attract and support a new industry: quantum technology.

Now, representatives of other countries, federal research labs and a network of private organizations with ties to the state are beginning to ink deals and make agreements to bring specific quantum companies to Illinois—and boost the startups that are already here.

Illinois state officials are interested in attracting the nascent industry because of its potential for economic growth and positioning Illinois as a high-tech leader in the coming decades.

Quantum technology is an emerging field of research and business that creates specialized machinery and computers that use the laws of quantum mechanics to solve problems and behave in ways that would be out of reach for traditional machines.

Last week, two events in Chicagoland offered a glimpse inside the world of quantum businesses and the layers of public and private funding going into the industry.

The Japan External Trade Organization—an economic development organization affiliated with the government of Japan—sponsored a two-day “delegation” of business representatives to Chicago.

At an early meeting of the delegation, representatives of the state and economic devel-

• Pritzker

opment agencies pitched the region—and Illinois’ state backing—as unique in the world.

“This is not a state government that is following trends but really setting the trends,”

Intersect Illinois Chief Quantum Officer Preeti Chalsani told the delegation. “When I go to conferences, I hear about other states and countries who are thinking of doing something like Illinois. That really makes me proud.”

Intersect Illinois is a private nonprofit organization with ties to the state. It’s led by Christy George, a former Pritzker administration official who helped plan the Democratic National Convention in Chicago last summer. The organization also plays a prominent role in the state Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity’s five-year plan for attracting business to Illinois.

“This is a state that is constantly on a mission to constantly build and expand our business environment,” George said at the event.

Representatives of the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity, World Business Chicago and the University of Chicago also participated in the event.

The visit mirrored Gov. JB Pritzker’s and Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson’s visits to Japan where both men, along with sizable entourages of economic development leaders and businesspeople, met with Japanese officials.

(Continued from page 6)

ing specific names, who abandon their core beliefs for political gain.

“Of all the unbecoming qualities that Americans hate in their politicians—they hate cowardice the most,” Pritzker said. “I’d rather lose standing up for what I believe in than win by selling out those who believed in me.”

As Pritzker rattled off a list of accomplishments in his more than six years as governor, his message remained the same as it has since he launched his first campaign in 2017 to unseat an unpopular Republican incumbent: fight.

“Let me be clear: There is no Mission Accomplished banner to stand under today,” Pritzker said alluding to a premature victory declaration former President George W. Bush made in a 2003 speech regarding military action in Iraq. “Yes, we have addressed so many of our old problems—but new ones always arise. History is an endless relay race. Our job is not to look for the finish line but to protect the baton as we run our assigned leg. But we have work to do. I have work to do.”

Pritzker argued his success has come through embracing

Both visits, and especially Pritzker’s in October 2024, built hype in the Asian nation about Illinois’ role in the developing quantum technology sector. Pritzker is a self-professed “quantum geek” and his personal interest in the emerging industry contributes to the state’s interest in it.

Over the two days the Japanese delegation was in Chicago, they toured several local quantum businesses, including qBraid, InfleQtion, and EeroQ among other locations around the city. The DCEO and Intersect Illinois also hosted a reception for the Japanese delegation.

The efforts from state and industry boosters appear to be interesting to at least a few in the cutting-edge industry.

At a pitch and networking event capping off the Japanese visit last week, several Chicago-based and Japan-based companies discussed their business models and strategies.

One of the Japanese delegation members who pitched at the event, Quantumdata founder Yuki Nagasako, told Capitol News Illinois the quantum industry in Chicago is “very hot,” especially compared to artificial intelligence tech hubs in California.

“When I say I work in quantum technology in the Bay area? Nobody knows. Nothing,” Nagasako said. “But in Chicago, here? Everybody.”

Nagasako, whose company has offices in California and is currently in a fundraising round,

his role as a cheerleader for the state, recalling the negative perceptions of Illinois, such as the prevalence of corruption and unbalanced budgets, that had consumed state politics.

“When I was first elected, I told you I was prepared to be a happy warrior on behalf of our state, even if it meant going it alone,” Pritzker said. “I suited up to face the carnival barkers and misery spelunkers and doom grifters. I handed out optimism like a shot of Malört— as a swift jolt to the heart.”

First three-term Democrat?

The 60-year-old Democrat enters the race as the favorite, having received more than 54% of the vote in the 2018 and 2022 elections.

An heir to a fortune built on the Hyatt Hotel chain, Pritzker’s net worth sits at $3.7 billion as of June 26, according to Forbes. His vast personal wealth makes him one of the richest politicians in American history and gives him a significant leg up on competitors. Pritzker dumped $350 million into his first two campaigns and has never taken outside contributions.

said he’s seriously considering expanding in Chicago.

That event also featured a closed-door meetings between Japanese companies and officials at PsiQuantum as well as other local companies.

State quantum park

PsiQuantum is one of the jewels of the state’s quantum crown. It is the “anchor tenant” of the Illinois Quantum and Microelectronics Park, or IQMP, a research park set to break ground later this year on Chicago’s South Side.

The California-based quantum computing company was raising $750 million at a $6 billion valuation earlier this year, according to reporting from Reuters. Its last official valuation was $3.1 billion in 2021.

That park is being built with $500 million in state funding, on top of $200 million in tax breaks and other incentives going to PsiQuantum directly.

Harley Johnson, the University of Illinois professor who took over as the head of the IQMP late last year, said the “singular focus” of the research facility is to help scale up quantum computing technology.

“In some cases, it takes really specialized, industrial-scale infrastructure,” Johnson said last week.

Johnson was speaking at an event at Argonne National Lab where federal researchers and state-level quantum advocates discussed the state’s future as the “Quantum Prairie”—a riff

on California’s Silicon Valley.

There, he also laid the groundwork for what is expected to be a busy few months at the state’s quantum research park.

“There are a lot of exciting announcements,” Johnson said. “We’re going to break ground very soon.”

In addition to PsiQuantum, several other major groups have said they’ll set up shop at the research park. Six months ago, IBM announced it would build a quantum computer and research center at the park.

About a year ago, the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency, or DARPA, announced it would base a quantum testing program at the park.

Two weeks ago, the IQMP also announced that Australian tech and quantum company Diraq intends to open a facility at the park.

“Diraq building and scaling their quantum operation at the IQMP is a testament to Illinois attracting the tech and security sectors,” Pritzker said in a statement at the time. “Diraq’s commitment further cements Illinois’ position as a global quantum leader and reflects the state’s commitment to fostering innovation and economic growth.”

Diraq is one of nearly 20 companies that is participating in the first stage of DARPA’s quantum testing program.

“We’ve got others that will be coming on board soon,” Johnson said in his speech.

What is quantum tech?

Researchers and entrepreneurs are developing computers and other systems using the principles of quantum mechanics to achieve things that would be impossible with traditional computers. Current quantum computers can perform benchmark tests more than 1 billion times faster than traditional computers. Quantum technology can also be used to decode encrypted messages, posing serious questions for the cybersecurity industry. Other applications include simulations, sensor technology and communications. World Business Chicago, an economic development organization backed by the city of Chicago, estimates the industry could generate tens of billions of dollars in Chicagoland and create more than 100,000 jobs.

Separately, Pritzker has used an undisclosed amount of his personal fortune to fund a political action committee, Think Big America, to support abortion rights in other states.

Pritzker is also entering unchartered territory for Illinois governors. If he completes his current term, he would be the first Democrat to serve two full terms in modern state history. If he wins reelection, he would be the only governor to serve more than two terms since Republican Gov. Jim Thompson served four terms from 1977 until 1991.

Pritzker will need a new running mate first, however, as Lt. Gov. Juliana Stratton is running for U.S. Senate. Pritzker did not announce a running mate June 26.

Pritzker’s governing record

The governor’s top priority for his second term was to eliminate child care deserts and make preschool more accessible. Since he was sworn in in January 2023, the state has implemented Pritzker’s Smart Start initiative to expand preschool offerings around the state and has begun to phase

in a new Department of Early Childhood.

When asked about those goals after his speech June 26, Pritzker said there were an “awful lot of things” that his administration still needed to accomplish.

“We still need to get to universal preschool. We’re on our way. It’ll happen probably in 2027,” Pritzker said.

But Pritzker pointed to several of his progressive policy wins June 26, in his speech and when speaking to reporters.

He has signed legislation raising the minimum wage to $15, legalizing recreational cannabis, banning assault weapons and numerous new protections of abortion rights since Roe v. Wade was overturned three years ago. Pritzker also passed landmark legislation to phase out fossil fuels in the electricity sector.

Pritzker repeatedly brought up cleaning up Illinois’ fiscal house. The state has recorded budget surpluses in recent years and has received nine credit upgrades since he took office.

But challenges are also growing. The budget has gotten tighter, and lawmakers have resorted to more than $1 billion

in targeted tax increases over the last two years to balance the budget. The fiscal year 26 budget Pritzker signed this month increased discretionary spending by less than 1 percent.

There’s also been headaches over legislative priorities. Labor unions are frustrated Pritzker didn’t embrace their proposal for pension reform this spring. And many parts of the governor’s legislative agenda hit roadblocks with concerned lawmakers. There’s also ongoing discussions about achieving Pritzker’s bold clean energy goals as prices rise and energy supply is strained.

The governor has taken pride in growing state agencies decimated by the two-year budget impasse that began a decade ago. But problems at those agencies have caused trouble for Pritzker.

An audit revealed the Department of Public Health failed to intervene to stop deaths from COVID-19 at the LaSalle Veterans’ Home in 2020, though Pritzker blamed and fired leaders at the Department of Veterans’ Affairs.

Billions of pandemic relief dollars at the Department of Employment Security went to

fraudsters, while the Department of Children and Family Services faced years of scrutiny over deaths and the its failure to properly house children in its care while Pritzker maintained support for the department’s director.

GOP criticizes ‘stepping stone’ approach

As problems have mounted at the Statehouse, Senate Republicans have encouraged Pritzker to “think Illinois.” As he announced his campaign June 26, Illinois Republicans continue to believe his focus is elsewhere.

“These last nearly eight years under his governance merits firing not rehiring,” Illinois GOP Chair Kathy Salvi said in a statement. “While businesses and families flee, Pritzker sees Illinois as nothing more than a stepping stone for the White House.”

A field of Republican challengers is still taking shape. So far, DuPage County Sheriff James Mendrick, Posen Park District Commissioner Phil Perez and Lake Forest businessman Joe Severino have announced they will run in the Republican primary.

Waves’ week includes meets against Glendale Heights and Itasca

Lombard’s Marco

Garavito

wins three races against Itasca; Waves finished regular season with this week’s home meet against Villa

Park

The Lombard Waves swam against the Itasca Dolphins in Saturday morning’s meet at Paradise Bay Water Park. The visiting Dolphins outscored Lombard 392-252 in the meet’s overall team standings.

The Waves’ individual champions in Saturday’s meet included Marco Garavito, who won three races in the 13-14 boys division. He earned his first victory of the day in the 100-yard individual medley, which he completed in 1 minute, 9.99 seconds. He then won the 50-yard butterfly, which he finished in 29.00 seconds, and the 50-yard backstroke (32.22).

Lombard’s Hannah Rogers won two individual titles in the 11-12 girls level of Saturday’s meet. She won the 50-yard backstroke (41.36) and the 50-yard breaststroke (47.84).

Henry Damasius provided the Waves with two victories in the 11-12 boys division. He delivered his first-place swims in the 50-yard backstroke (40.86) and the 50-yard breaststroke (49.09).

Alyssa Wiemerslage of Lombard raced to two wins on Saturday. Competing in the 15-18 girls level, she won the 100-yard freestyle (1:05.65) and the 50-yard butterfly (33.73).

Mason McKenna of the Waves delivered two wins

in the 15-18 boys division during the meet against Itasca. He won the 100-yard individual medley (1:02.67) and the 100-yard freestyle (57.01).

Lombard’s other individual champions in Saturday’s meet included:

9-10 boys: John Nelson (50-yard backstroke; 49.60) 11-12 boys: Cooper Wedel (100-yard freestyle; 1:19.61) 15-18 girls: Caitlin Hageman (50-yard freestyle; 30.01) 15-18 boys: Benjamin Bates (50-yard breaststroke; 33.73)

The Waves’ 11-12 girls foursome of Matilda Walton, Hannah Rogers, Josephine Zeithammel and Matilda Sproule won two relay races on Saturday. The four girls won the 200-yard medley relay (3:00.14) and the 200-yard freestyle relay (2:34.41).

Lombard’s 15-18 boys lineup of Mason McKenna, Benjamin Bates, Weslee Pounders and Thomas Leslein also swam to two relay victories against Itasca. The four boys won the 200-yard medley relay (1:58.30) early in the meet. They turned in firstplace performance in the 200yard freestyle relay (1:43.97) at the end of the meet.

The Waves’ 8-and-under girls foursome of Mila Avila, Amelia Ali, Avery Norman and Claire Wedel won the 100-yard medley relay

(1:36.86) in the first race of Saturday’s meet. Parker Bergman and Katherine Van Kampen joined Claire Wedel and Avery Norman to earn a victory in the 8-and-under girls division’s 100-yard freestyle relay (1:22.15) later in the meet.

John Nelson, Pete Stone, Jack Kueking and Daniel Petrine teamed up to form a first-place foursome for Lombard in the 9-10 boys level on Saturday. The four Waves won the 200-yard medley relay (3:10.62).

Later in the meet, Christopher Ong joined Pete Stone, John Nelson and Daniel Petrine to win the 200-yard freestyle relay (3:01.87) in the 9-10 boys division.

Three days before facing the Itasca Dolphins, the Waves battled the Glendale Heights Dolphins. Lombard defeated Glendale Heights 395-164 in the June 25 meet in Glendale Heights.

The Waves closed out their regular season earlier this week with a July 2 home meet against the Villa Park Mariners. Some Waves will finish the season at the DuPage Swim and Dive Conference’s White Division ‘B’ Meet on July 12 in Itasca. Other Waves will complete the season by swimming in the White Division ‘A’ Meet at Paradise Bay Water Park on July 19.

The Lombard Waves competed against the Itasca Dolphins in Saturday’s meet at Paradise Bay Water Park. Itasca defeated the Waves 392-252. Lombard’s standout swimmers in the meet included Marco Garavito, who won three races in the 13-14 boys level. He is pictured (above) during his victory in the 50-yard backstroke. Hannah Rogers of the Waves won two individual events and swam on two first-place relay teams in the 11-12 girls division. She is pictured (bottom left) during her first-place effort in the 50-yard backstroke. Lombard’s Benjamin Bates is shown (bottom middle) during his win in the 50-yard breaststroke in the 15-18 boys level. One more photo from Saturday shows Henry Damasius, who won two events for the Waves in the 11-12 boys division. He is pictured (below) during his victory in the 50-yard backstroke.

Chris Fox photos Rock Valley Publishing

Mariners swim in final home meet of the season

Woodridge defeats Villa Park;

Lydia Aldana of the Mariners swims to four individual wins

The Villa Park Mariners faced the Woodridge Sea Lions in last week’s meet at Jefferson Pool. The talented Sea Lions defeated the Mariners 475-161 in the overall team scoring in the June 25 meet, which marked Villa Park’s final home meet of the season.

Villa Park’s Lydia Aldana swam to four individual victories in her team’s meet against Woodridge. Competing in the 11-12 girls division, she earned her first win of the evening in the 50-meter freestyle, which she completed in 32.57 seconds. After winning the 100-meter individual medley (in 1 minute, 24.31 seconds), she won the 50-meter butterfly (37.16) and the 50-meter breaststroke (43.43).

Three more Aldana siblings won individual events for the Mariners during the June 25 meet. Phoebe Aldana swam to two victories in the 13-14 girls level, winning the 100-meter individual medley (1:22.08) and the 50-meter breaststroke (41.61).

Naomi Aldana of Villa Park raced to a pair of victories in the 15-18 girls division during her team’s meet against Woodridge. She won the 100-meter individual medley (1:16.23) and the 50-meter butterfly (31.93).

Ethan Aldana provided the Mariners with a victory

against the Sea Lions in the 8-and-under boys level. He won the 25-meter freestyle (23.00).

Villa Park’s other individual winners in the June 25 meet included:

8-and-under girls: Margot Tarsitano (25-meter freestyle; 23.31)

9-10 girls: Estela Leu (50-meter freestyle; 56.82) and Maddie Lynch (50-meter breaststroke; 52.81)

11-12 boys: Caleb Vaughan (50-meter butterfly; 46.45)

13-14 boys: Ryan Mueller (100-meter individual medley; 1:51.97)

15-18 boys: Manny Brisbois (50-meter freestyle; 29.64) and Jurgen Carrola (50-meter backstroke; 38.94)

The Mariners traveled to Roselle on Saturday, June 28, to face the Racers. The Racers defeated Villa Park 400-243.

The Mariners completed their regular season earlier this week when they faced the Lombard Waves at Paradise Bay Water Park in Lombard on July 2. Some Villa Park swimmers will finish the 2025 season by competing in the DuPage Swim and Dive Conference’s Red Division ‘B’ Meet on July 12. Other Mariners will complete the season at the Red Division ‘A’ Meet on July 19.

The Villa Park Mariners competed in their final home meet of the season when they faced the Woodridge Sea Lions at Jefferson Pool on June 25. The Sea Lions defeated Villa Park 475-161. Lydia Aldana of the Mariners won four races in the meet’s 11-12 girls level. She is pictured (above left) during her victory in the 100-meter individual medley. Villa Park’s Estela Leu is pictured (above right) during her first-place effort in the 9-10 girls level’s 50-meter freestyle. Another photo (right) shows Ethan Aldana of the Mariners swimming to a win in the 8-and-under boys division’s 25-meter freestyle. The Mariners completed their regular season earlier this week when they traveled to Lombard to face the Waves. Some Villa Park swimmers will conclude the 2025 season by competing in the DuPage Swim and Dive Conference’s Red Division ‘B’ Meet in Bloomingdale on July 12. Other Mariners will finish the season by participating in the Red Division ‘A’ Meet in Wood Dale on July 19.

Willowbrook students compete in Special Olympics state event

Willowbrook High School held a state send-off celebration recently for two students who qualified to compete in the Special Olympics Illinois Summer Games. Aidan Schwarz (Class of 2028) and Rehan Khan (Class of 2028) participated in the Special Olympics Illinois Summer Games, which took place June 20-22 in Bloomington-Normal. Khan competed in the softball throw at the state event, while Schwarz competed in the tennis ball throw and the 50-meter assisted race. Pictured left to right at last month’s state sendoff are: Willowbrook assistant coach Tina Janopoulos, Willowbrook head Special Olympics coach Tara Murphy, Schwarz, assistant coach Linda Lattis and Khan.

Chris Fox photos Rock Valley Publishing

Public transit agencies begin planning for ‘doomsday’ funding scenario

By Andrew Adams CAPITOL NEWS ILLINOIS

Transit agency officials in Chicagoland met this week and formally began the process of planning for next year’s budget, including drawing up plans for major service cuts and potential layoffs.

It’s the latest chapter in an ongoing fight between public transit officials and state lawmakers over funding. Public transportation agencies’ federal COVID-19 relief funds are set to run out in 2026. Despite the funding, ridership on buses and trains still hasn’t reached pre-pandemic levels.

Now, transit agencies running buses and trains in northern Illinois are facing a $771 million annual combined budget gap—and lawmakers did not pass funding reform leg-

• Board

islation by a critical May 31 deadline.

While House Speaker Emanuel “Chris” Welch told Capitol News Illinois that lawmakers “have time” to handle the situation, transit officials told a very different story at two meetings this week.

“We have told everyone they needed to act by May 31st or else,” Regional Transportation Authority board member Tom Kotarac said at a board meeting. “We are in the ‘or else’ phase.”

Officials at the RTA laid out a plan to handle the monetary uncertainty: create two budgets. In one scenario, budget planners assume the gap is filled, and agencies can move forward with the rough plan approved late last year.

“But we cannot operate on

(Continued from page 7)

cisions to release people from prison.

In May 2024, the Senate unanimously passed a bill that would have made a series of reforms to the board, including requiring that certain meetings be livestreamed and board members receive additional training. The bill appeared ready to pass the House with 76 members signing on as cosponsors. But the bill was never called for a vote in the final hours of session after Pritzker had concerns about the feasibility of the livestreaming requirements and lack of funding for the board.

Instead, lawmakers moved forward with the legislation signed by Pritzker on Friday, which Republicans op-

Answers

posed saying it doesn’t go far enough to meaningfully reform the board.

“After the Governor ignored our consistent and clear warnings, a horrible murder was triggered by a terrible decision by the Prisoner Review Board,” Sens. Jason Plummer, R-Edwardsville, and Steve McClure, R-Springfield, said in a statement. “Now, instead of listening to a bipartisan coalition at the capitol, he and his far-left allies pushed through a bill that makes it more difficult for the PRB to keep violent criminals off the streets.”

The new law also attempts to make the board more professional, Senate President Don Harmon, D-Oak Park, the Senate sponsor of the bill, said

assumptions and pledges of good faith and promises. We just can’t, legally,” RTA government affairs director Rob Nash said.

The RTA board formally asked the agencies it oversees—the Chicago Transit Authority, Metra commuter rail and Pace Suburban Bus— to prepare a budget that assumes no new funding from Springfield before the end of the year. This means a roughly 20 percent reduction from what the agency expected.

Multiple RTA officials called it the “doomsday” scenario. RTA Chief Financial Officer Kevin Bueso said it would require “catastrophic” cuts. CTA acting President Nora Leerhsen told the CTA board that it was “severe and sobering for all of us and hard to stomach.”

in April. It gives board members eight-year terms instead of six so they can be more focused on their decisions rather than their reappointment, he said. It also changes qualifications for board members, requiring seven out of the 15 board members have at least five years of experience as a law enforcement officer, parole officer, prosecutor, criminal defense attorney or judge. Republicans opposed creating longer terms for board members, saying it reduces Senate oversight of the board and fails to hold board members accountable for decisions. The Senate is responsible for confirming the governor’s appointments to the board.

NOTICE

LEGAL NOTICES

CERTIFICATE NO. 79731 was filed in the office of the County Clerk of DuPage County on JUNE 11, 2025 wherein the business firm of CROWN BAKING CO., 6680 POWELL ST., DOWNERS GROVE, IL 60516 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: Deborah McClelland, 6680 Powell St., Downers Grove, IL 60516.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and Official Seal at my office in Wheaton, Illinois, this 11TH day of JUNE, A.D. 2025. Jean Kaczmarek DuPage County Clerk (Published in The Lombardian June 19 & 26, July 3, 2025) 473318

NOTICE

CERTIFICATE NO. 79733 was filed in the office of the County Clerk of DuPage County on JUNE 12, 2025 wherein the business firm of XIMENA’S FAMILY CHILD CARE, 568 S. PARK RD., LOMBARD, IL

60148, 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: Jose M Escobar, 568 S. Park Rd., Lombard, IL 60148; Faviola X. Escobar, 568 S. Park Rd., Lombard, IL 60148. IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and Official Seal at my office in Wheaton, Illinois, this 12TH day of JUNE, A.D. 2025 Jean Kaczmarek DuPage County Clerk (Published in The Lombardian June 19 & 26, July 3, 2025) 473432

Public Notice: DestructioN of District recorDs

The Addison School District 4 hereby gives notice of its intent to destroy administrative, financial, and other non-student records dated 1977-2024, in accordance with state and federal records retention policies. Records scheduled for destruction are no longer deemed necessary for district operations or compliance purposes.

Destruction will begin after July 30, 2025. Individuals or agencies who believe they may have a reason to access these records before disposal must submit a written request to the Human Resources Department at nkazanecki@asd4.org by July 18, 2025.

For further information, contact Nicole Kazanecki at nkazanecki@ asd4.org

(Published in the Addison Independent, Bensenville Independent & Villa Park Review June 26, July 3, 10, & 17, 2025) 473764

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TIME TO SPARKLE!

Start your Fourth of July celebration right at the 20th Elmhurst Running Club 4 on the 4th!

Light up your morning on the streets of Elmhurst! Both races start and finish on S. Prospect Ave. between Elmhurst University and Wilder Park.

Thank you to our many sponsors.

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BRONZE: LeDonne True Value Hardware; Rebuilt PT and Performance

VR 7.3.25

Villa Park R eview

also serving OakbrOOk Terrace

Several residents turn out to speak at village board meeting

Many residents express their disapproval of proposals to dissolve village commissions

InsIde:

VFW Post 2801 presents awards

Excellent Therapy for Children with Autism Depends on Excellent Therapists

Board members engage in heated debate during discussion of social media policies

Villa Park resident receives Montini’s Gerry Marcoux Memorial Scholarship

Villa Park’s Independence Day Parade begins

Friday, July 4, at 10 a.m.

When in doubt, Villa Park residents should call 911 to help keep the village safe

Police Reports

Opinion

Slices of life

Harnessing a wanderer

Illinois: A powerhouse for innovation and America’s digital future

Guidelines for writing, submitting a letter to the editor

How Speak Out works

Coming event

DuPage County State’s Attorney’s Office launches Animal Protection Unit

Pritzker launches third-term reelection bid

Rotary club installs officers

Pritzker OKs changes to Prisoner Review Board following years of controversy

New law comes after governor’s opposition stalled a broader measure last year

Coming events

• Board

• Policies

Worship

Directory

St. Timothy

IC CATHOLIC PREP INVESTS IN EXCELLENCE

State-of-the-art Science Labs

New Turf at Plunkett Athletic Complex

Welcome back, Jonathan Toews

Sudoku

Fun by the Numbers

Inside Illinois’ efforts to court the emerging quantum technology industry

Japanese business delegation visits Chicago, local research park breaking ground ‘soon’

• Pritzker

First three-term Democrat?

What is quantum tech?

Pritzker’s governing record

Waves’ week includes meets against Glendale Heights and Itasca

Garavito

Park

Mariners swim in final home meet of the season

Woodridge defeats Villa Park;

Lydia Aldana of the Mariners swims to four individual wins

Willowbrook students compete in Special Olympics state event

Public transit agencies begin planning for ‘doomsday’ funding scenario

• Board

Answers

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