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Addison Trail Folklórico ballet performs at state conference

On Friday, April 12, members of the Addison Trail Ballet Folklórico Estilo México and the Mariachi de Addison Trail performed during the Illinois Association of Latino Administrators & Superintendents (IALAS) Annual Statewide Conference in Chicago.

The event focused on equity, leadership, education policy and the teacher pipeline through diverse breakout sessions and engaging discussions. The purpose was to col-

lectively empower voices and take actionable steps toward advancing educational excellence. The Addison Trail students were the featured entertainment for the conference.

The mission of IALAS is “to provide authentic, high-quality learning opportunities for all students by promoting Latino leaders and building capacity among education leaders serving in Latino communities by advocating for responsive, informed policy development.”

This closeup of two dancers

tumes

Addison Trail cheer team to host tryouts

Student Council invites community to Color Run fundraiser

On Saturday, May 11, Addison Trail’s Student Council will host a Color Run fundraiser, and all students, parents/guardians, alumni, staff, community members and friends are invited to participate. The Color Run is a fun community event, where participants can run, play, enjoy the sun and eat a sweet treat –all while getting covered in colored powder.

It will take place at the stadium at Addison Trail. The fee to participate is $10 per person. Proceeds support a scholarship for a graduating senior. To register or for more information, visit dupage88.net/ATColorRun2023-24.

For those who prefer not to run, but would still like to participate, sign up to be placed at a station to throw colored powder at the runners.

Those who are unable to attend, but would still like to support the event, can make a donation at the site mentioned above.

Addison Trail Student Council officers junior Anjali Acosta, junior Jackelyn Macedo Hernandez and junior Pablo Sosa said the goal of the event is to bring everyone together for a good cause.

“We noticed there’s a lack of connection between the generations, and we wanted to host an event that would get the community involved and help bring us all together,” they said. “Our goal is to have this become a memorable event that continues for years to come.”

Open gyms: Wednesdays May 1, 8 and 15 from 5 to 6:30 p.m.

Note : Attending these sessions isn’t required to try out but is highly recommended.

Tryouts clinic: Monday, May 20 from 5 to 7:30 p.m.

Attention, current and incoming Blazers! The Addison Trail Cheer Team will host tryouts on Tuesday, May 21 for students who are interested in joining the group for the 2024-25 school year. Previous experience is not required. The Cheer Team season goes from May to February, and the group performs during all football games, home basketball games, the Homecoming Assembly and multiple Illinois Cheerleading Coaches Association (ICCA) competitions. To help students prepare for tryouts, the group will host three open gym sessions and a tryout clinic.

Note : Attendance at the clinic is mandatory to try out for the team.

Tryouts: Tuesday, May 21 from 5 to 7:30 p.m.

Note : A parent meeting will take place after tryouts.

*All events will take place at Addison Trail High School, 213 N. Lombard Rd.

For more information and to register, visit dupage88.net/ATCheerTeamTryouts2024-25.

They added that coordinating the Color Run has been a two-month process and has involved working with the Village of Addison regarding logistics, as well as local businesses for sponsorships. They said Student Council also helps with the school’s Homecoming, Winter Fest Dance and Breakfast with Santa, and the group plans to do even more in the future.

“We definitely recommend getting involved with Student Council,” the students said. “It’s a great way to represent the student body and to share your voice with staff and administrators.”

These Addison Trail student dancers performed at the Illinois Association of Latino Administrators & Superintendents (IALAS) annual statewide conference in Chicago.

These members of the Addison Trail Ballet Folklórico Estilo México and the Mariachi de Addison Trail performed during the Illinois Association of Latino Administrators & Superintendents (IALAS) annual conference.

shows their beautiful, colorful cos-

they wore when the dance groups performed at the IALAS conference in Chicago.

SUBMITTED PHOTOS Rock Valley Publishing

The widow weirdo

When my husband died three years ago, one of the first thoughts I had was, “I’m not going to be a widow.”

What that meant, to me, was that I wasn’t going to let widowhood define me.

Now I realize that was a naive belief, because widowhood literally defines who you are and who you are becoming.

How could it not? It is your past, present and future—all in one simple word. Yeah, it sucks.

Widowhood is all-encompassing. You don’t just lose a person. You lose a way of life. You lose your daily schedule—the person you eat meals with, sleep with, vacation with, watch TV with, fight for the remote with, argue with and plan the future with.

You lose your future—as it was planned. As it was supposed to be.

In many ways, you lose your essence. Everything needs to start over from scratch and it seems daunting.

When my husband first died, I vowed not to become a widow. But that’s a hard vow to keep when that is exactly what you are—like it or not. Hate it or not.

I found, upon meeting new people, it took approximately a minute (give or take) into conversation before I disclosed my marital status.

“I’m a widow.”

If only I had a nickel for every time I’ve said that phrase. Widow. Widow. Widow. I hate being it, but there’s no escaping it. Or so I thought. Until the other day when I had a simple conversation with my son.

Me: I’m having lunch tomorrow with a friend. She’s a widow.

Son: Why are you going then?

Me: What do you mean?

Son: Why do you want to go to lunch with a weirdo?

“Weirdo widow. Widow weirdo.”

Say that 10 times fast.

And with that one brief conversation, I decided I’d much rather be a weirdo than a widow. Is there a weirdo status on Facebook? If not, there should be,

By Jill Pertler Columnist

because I think there’s so much more to be had from being labeled weird versus widowed.

Weird is quirky. It is unique. It is energy and fun. Weird is maybe that person you don’t want to sit next to at dinner, but it just might be the very opposite. Wouldn’t a weirdo be fun to chat with over a chicken Marsala?

Why not?

Weird is a turquoise shirt with orange pants and a purple scarf: you might not choose to wear it yourself but you can’t help looking and have a bit of awe (perhaps respect) for the person who dares to try to pull it off.

Weird is doing your own thing. It is dancing when there is no music and standing still when there is. It is eating breakfast for dinner and vice versa. It is laughing before the punchline. It is pink hair or no hair or the hair color you were born with - because that is what works best for you. It is talking to yourself (out loud) unabashedly, most preferably in a very public place.

It is going against the grain, but loving every moment while doing so. It is smiling at strangers just to make them wonder who you are and what you are thinking.

It is living life on your own terms in your own way.

It is, in many ways, freedom.

I didn’t choose to be a widow. I didn’t even choose to be a weirdo. But I can choose freedom. I can choose to live life on my own terms in my own way.

And right now that sounds pretty good.

So weirdo it is.

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

Combating the CCP’s role in America’s fentanyl crisis

By U.S. Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi

Last week, as Ranking Member of the Select Committee on the Strategic Competition

Between the United States and the Chinese Communist Party (CCP), I helped lead a hearing examining the role the CCP has played in the fentanyl crisis that has ripped families and communities apart.

from the PRC, which contributed to the deaths of 76,000 Americans from fentanyl-laced opioid overdoses in 2022, even as there were zero fentanyl-related deaths in the PRC.

Just before the hearing, our committee released a bipartisan report detailing our investigation into how the CCP is not only allowing companies operating within the People’s Republic of China (PRC) to continue to supply the world with fentanyl components, but also subsidizing them.

It is estimated that 97 percent of illicit fentanyl materials come

Furthermore, our committee’s report found that the CCP is using tax incentives to aid companies in producing these dangerous chemicals and doing little to criminally punish those responsible. During my question line, I also revealed that the CCP has been censoring words in Chinese on PRC-based websites related to fentanyl while allowing the dangerous products to be promoted in English.

These actions have added to the belief that the CCP is protecting its own citizens from fentanyl while allowing it to run rampant internationally, including in the U.S. Congress must do more to tackle the opioid epidemic in our country, and it starts with cutting off fentanyl precursor supplies

Casten releases statement on passing aid for Ukraine, Israel, Taiwan

On Saturday, U.S. Congressman Sean Casten (D-Ill.) voted to pass a supplemental funding package to provide critical aid to Ukraine, Taiwan, Israel, and humanitarian assistance for Gaza. Rep Casten released the following statement:

“Now more than ever, the United States plays an important role in global governance, from strengthening alliances and helping address national security threats to defending democracy and advancing respect for human rights.

“Russia’s cruel and unprovoked invasion of Ukraine requires a continued global response. Putin has made clear that he does not intend

to stop at Ukraine, and we must act swiftly to counter him. Sending American bullets today helps prevent American boots on the ground tomorrow. Ukraine must prevail—this funding helps make that happen.

“In addition, we must continue to support Taiwan’s growing democracy. This funding bolsters the United States’ security at home and abroad by investing in critical Indo-Pacific trading partners and maintaining peace in the region.

“Further, this supplemental funding package helps Israel safeguard its people against pressing threats from Hamas and Iran. Just last week, Israel’s air defenses were strained as it

repelled an attack from Iran. It is crucial that we replenish these defense systems and help Israel maintain military readiness.

“Finally, this package includes critical funding to provide urgent and life-saving humanitarian aid for Palestinians in Gaza. We must ensure this aid reaches those in need without any delay.

“Today’s vote is an important moment in ensuring that the U.S. maintains its critical role in effectively advocating for the rule of law, democracy, and the post-World War II order.”

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

being promoted by the CCP.

More than 110,000 Americans died due to drug overdoses from January 2022-January 2023. That equates to one death every five minutes, according to the Center for Disease Control (CDC).

Our home state of Illinois has been rocked by opioid-related deaths in recent years, with 3,261 Illinois residents dying from opioids overdoses in 2022 alone, according to the Illinois Department of Public Health.

There needs to be accountability for the CCP for the role it played in fueling this American nightmare and tragedy, and that is what this hearing and bipartisan report were about, including my policy recommendations for strengthened sanctions, prosecution, and accountability.

Japanese prime minister’s joint address to Congress

It was an honor to welcome Cook County Commissioner Josina Morita as my guest to see Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida appear before a joint session of Congress.

As Ranking Member of the Select Committee on the CCP, I was particularly eager to hear Prime Minister Kishida discuss how our two countries would continue to work together to counter the growing threats posed by the CCP and ensure peace and security throughout the IndoPacific region.

I was also pleased that President Biden secured agreements with Japan to bolster our partnership in the fields of economic and

Thank you to the Villa Park Library for hosting antique appraiser Rex Newell. Not only was he knowledgeable, but he told great stories and was funny as well. It was nice to offer a free appraisal for a change. Items he looked at ranged from a few bucks up to the high hundreds; it was interesting to see what things people brought, from jewelry to artwork to an old clock and watches. At the same time, it was enlightening for those of us who think we have “the” collectible item in our possession.

I would like to know how Lombard will deal with the lost revenue if the state does away with the grocery tax like the governor is suggesting. Pritzker said in response to criticism that municipalities can always choose to pass their own ordinances to recoup that lost amount. Lombard already has a local tax on purchases, but out of the portion of the state grocery tax revenue that comes back to Lombard, how much would the village stand to lose? Has the idea of bringing before the board a request, to add that amount back in, been discussed by the village? Last question: What is the local/state breakdown on the taxes we pay for groceries and non-grocery items? Thank you.

Editor’s note: Your inquiry was forwarded to Village of Lombard officials, who responded: “The village does not receive sufficient information from the state to accurately determine how much revenue would be lost if the sales tax on groceries is eliminated. Based on various assumptions, if the Governor’s plan is implemented, the best estimate is the Village would lose about $1.3 million in sales tax.

“If this tax is eliminated, the village, as a Non-Home Rule com-

munity, currently has no statutory authority to enact a new tax to add back the tax on groceries, unless new legislation is enacted granting this authority.

“For the sales tax on groceries, the 1% total rate goes to the village. For the regular sales tax rate of 8%, the State receives 5%, the village receives 2%, RTA receives 0.75% and DuPage County receives 0.25%. Further information on sales tax rates can be found at www.villageoflombard. org/323/Sales-Tax-Rate.

“In the event that the state does proceed with the elimination of the grocery tax, the Village of Lombard would advocate for it to be implemented at a future date so that it would allow local governments, such as Lombard, to adapt to the future reduction in revenues and determine the impact it may have on local service levels or operations.”

* * *

There was a woman at the April 4 Lombard Village Board meeting who spoke at the meeting. I was taken aback by a comment she made. She stated that she constantly lives in fear with the Islamophobia that is on the rise in our community. I have to ask this woman: where is Islamophobia on the rise in our community? I’ve lived in this community many years, and I haven’t seen it. If it is on the rise, I’m sure many in our community, myself included, would come to this woman’s defense and call it out.

* * *

Regarding Gaza, I think the Palestinian people need to stand up against Hamas and cut the head off the snake. After all, they are the innocents in all of this, with the most to lose, caught in the line of fire, and it is obvious Hamas doesn’t care that its own people are being

How Speak Out works

• Speak Out is a forum in which readers can express their opinion anonymously concerning local, state, national and international topics. Each call is limited to 200 words whether the caller calls 630-629TALK or emails their opinion to speakout@rvpublishing.com.

• The views expressed by callers are their own.

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

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

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

killed and injured. To their credit, the village board has spent a lot of its time during meetings hearing what residents have to say. But it has become repetitive to the point that I bet people will start to tune out the comments. I think the board has had enough time to get educated and make a decision, so the village can move on to other business. And where are all the people who want a cease-fire resolution between Russia and Ukraine? There are so many people suffering there as well, not to mention 31,000 Ukrainian troops killed as of February, according to the Associated Press. And my protest would be the amount of our tax dollars going to both Ukraine and Israel. We have our own people suffering with poverty and hunger here that should be addressed first.

* * *

I’d like to just say, when are you people going to wake up? When is this country going to start looking at what’s happening inside this country in the last three years, and say “Yeah, this is messed up”? And to the person who commented about what happened when Obama was there, it was so great; everything began with Obama. He’s running things for Joe Biden and things are bad. If Obama was so great, why is it the black people in Chicago are hurting even more than they are today? You’ve got to stop it now; the murders, the killings. We need to start finding Jesus. It’s coming sooner than you think; when are you going to wake up; when it hits your own family, when you lose your own children? Wake up America before it’s too late. God bless this country.

* * *

OK, neighbors, it’s way past the holidays. At least turn off your holiday lights, if not take them down. They are not a special decoration at this point. There is also a city ordinance about holiday decorations.

* * *

Squatter versus illegal immigrant: Is there a difference? Squatters take over your property if you’re not there to protect it. Illegal immigrants move into your country and take advantage of open borders. Squatters move into your house uninvited; illegal immigrants take over your country uninvited. In both scenarios your lifestyle and customs are being

compromised. At the present time our government is allowing this chaos to happen because of who you voted for. We the people are a big part of the problem. Get involved.

* * *

Lombard calling. I’m calling regarding the article in your April 11 paper, “In Chicago visit attorney general Garland announces $78 million anti-violence initiative.” Once again, we hear from Attorney General Merrick Garland, the pompous purveyor of propaganda for the Biden administration, who now states that the flood of illegal guns in our country is driven by those who sell guns illegally and do not conduct background checks. However, the thousands of illegal guns, along with the millions of illegal aliens who cross our southern border, are okay. We don’t worry about the guns and drugs from them. Attorney General Garland is a leftist puppet and a national disgrace. Thank you.

* * *

Hello, this is Lombard calling. For those who haven’t decided for whom to vote for in the presidential election, either Trump or Biden, I recommend reading the book “Tired of Winning” by Jonathan Karl. After reading it you should be able to decide for whom to vote. Thank you.

* * *

I’ve been reading Speak Out and everybody’s been complaining. Here’s something I want to complain about—the Democrats. Biden got in office and the stock market took a crash. They won’t say that but actually it did; look at your 401k. Now they’re spending money in billions and billions of dollars on illegals to come across the border. Now let’s talk about the people with electric cars that they’re throwing down our throats. Well, how did you like your electric cars in the cold snap when you had to pay big bucks to have it towed to be thawed out and charged? I’ll talk about crime; Democrats did away with the cash bail in their states. They just keep throwing away money. Man, it must

• Crisis

be nice to be a Democrat. I can’t afford to be one. And now they want to give money to all these other countries for their war efforts. Well, guess what? That’s your country; you defend it, you pay for it. If it were here in America we Americans would pay for it. Then you’ve got one Democrat on TV who stood in front of a burning flag. You don’t burn our flag. Many people have died for that flag.

* * *

What have we accomplished in the last three years to make America better? We keep giving away money and no one in Washington can tell you where it went. No one seems accountable. And why do we waste so much time putting Trump in the news media trying to convict him of everything we can think of? Trump is not even in office and Biden is a shoe-in by hook or by crook in the 2024 election. How about mortgage loan forgiveness next?

* * *

I think we should treat these immigrants to a plane ride and fly them back home. Bye.

* * *

I get a lot of my news online. Just about every day I see headlines making references to World War Three. It’s like the media really want a World War Three to occur, they’re so obsessed with it. I think it’s irresponsible of the media to do this.

* * *

I’ve heard clueless Joe Biden say that climate change is the existential threat to the world. I’m sure others reading this feel the same way. Have any of you climate change zealots been paying attention to what’s going on between Iran and Israel, Russia and Ukraine and possibly China and Taiwan? I didn’t think so. If anything between these countries ever escalates, and God forbid nuclear weapons are used, you’re going to wish all we needed to do is reduce CO2 emissions when there’s radioactivity and fallout to deal with.

(Continued from page 4)

military cooperation. Prime Minister Kishida also announced greater investment in American companies, which will lead to increased trade and more American jobs.

Letter to the editor

Raja Krishnamoorthi represents the 8th Congressional District of Illinois, which includes part of Addison, Wood Dale and Bensenville.

Reader: Individuals who choose to live in America ought to learn to read, write, communicate in English as soon as possible

In response to the writers’ plea for American public schools to provide additional bi-lingual teachers to accommodate students with low English language skills (Opinion page, April 11 issue), I believe it far more appropriate to offer classes and programs to help teach these individuals to learn and use the English language instead.

Diversity alone has little intrinsic value if the purpose is to further divide America. Learning English ought to be the goal of all who live in this country who wish to become “Americans.”

Back when our country was started, people were unified because we

held a common language—and we pursued a “melting pot” citizenry which brought success as we were building the country.

Today however, our “leftist government” promotes identity politics in all areas which promises the continued divisions within the country! This works well when pursuing a totalitarian society, but not when maintaining and preserving a constitutional democracy. Promoting differences rather than unity guarantees a “road to serfdom.”

Individuals who choose to live in America ought to learn to read, write, and communicate in English as soon as possible. Public schools

in America used to bring citizens together, not continually invite chaos and dissention by encouraging students to continue using their native language.

We need to help strengthen and unify America today more than ever, as evil forces constantly try to “fundamentally transform America” into a communist nation.

Bilingual teachers are adjuncts who should assist classroom teachers who are teaching in English. Secondary help, not primary assistance.

Marilyn Fawell Lombard

Showing community spirit

Several members of the 2024 Lilac Court helped out at a Versiti/Village of Lombard blood drive on Tuesday, April 16, serving snacks and talking with donors. In one photo (back row) Princesses Kendra Trummer and Jade Dhamers visit with (front row) phlebotomist Mariane Cesario and donor Reggie Fleck of Lombard. In another

National Indo-American Museum opens first permanent exhibition

‘Desi Roots and Wings’ to debut May 2

The National Indo-American Museum, which builds bridges across generations and connects cultures through the diverse colorful stories of Indian Americans, announces its first permanent exhibition and the second major exhibition since opening in fall 2021.

“Desi Roots and Wings” opens to the public Thursday, May 2, at NIAM’s home, 815 S. Main St., Lombard.

“Desi Roots and Wings” defines Desi Americans and the circumstances that led them to leave their motherland through photos, clothing, objects and stories.

Spanning more than 375 years, the exhibit opens with Roots, which narrates the little-known history of those who arrived from 1620 to World War I and documents their struggles to adapt and assimilate. These new immigrants participated in American wars and fought for freedom.

Wings, the second phase of the exhibition, continues after WWI to the present. Opening at a later date, this component will delve deeper into the fight for citizenship rights, the changes to immigration law in 1965 and the three subsequent waves of Indian immigration.

Said NIAM board member and exhibit committee chair Raja Nadimpalli, “The exhibit documents Indian-American history and experience, from the earliest arrivals to present times, and explores commonalities with other immigrant and native communities’ history and culture, thereby promoting understanding and harmony in these troubled times.”

“Desi Roots and Wings” opens Thursday, May 2 at noon at the National Indo-American Museum, 815 S. Main Street, Lombard. Museum/exhibition hours: Thursday through Sunday, 12–4 p.m. Group tours at other times are available by appointment.

Admission is $10, free for children 5 and younger.

Free parking is available. All programming is subject to change.

For information, visit niam.org.

DuPage County Health

Department confirms case of measles

The DuPage County Health Department (DCHD) has confirmed a case of measles in a DuPage County resident, the first case identified in DuPage County since 2009. The case does not appear to be linked to new arrival shelters in Chicago, and the source of infection is unknown at this time.

The individual diagnosed with measles has received outpatient med-

ical care, and DCHD is working diligently with public health partners to identify and notify individuals who may have been exposed to the virus. No exposure locations have been identified in DuPage County. Multiple exposure locations have been identified in Chicago from April 2-April 10.

To find measles exposure locations in Chicago, visit chicago.gov/measles

Lombard Historical Society presents Grassroots Democracy

The Lombard Historical Society (LHS) welcomes Mike Matejka as he presents Grassroots Democracy: Illinois Labor Journeys at 7 p.m. Thursday, May 2, in the Carriage House at 23 W. Maple St.

This is a free event, but space is limited. Free tickets are available on the website: LombardHistory.org. For more information about this event, or the Lombard Historical Society, visit lombardhistory.org, email info@lombardhistory.org, or phone 630-6291885.

Illinois was critical to workers’ finding their democratic voice through labor organization. From Chicago’s Haymarket Square to southern Illinois coal mines, workers struggled to build unions, create safe work environments, and find a community voice through their united efforts.

In building these organizations, workers often faced state repression and learned how to organize across ethnic, racial and gender lines. Workers like the Ottawa Ill. Radium Girls fearlessly stood up after their occupational exposure doomed them, helping create legislation to protect all workers.

Women workers found their own voice and often built alliances with middle class women to ensure their rights. The Brotherhood of Sleeping Car Porters faced discriminatory unions and built its own organization over a 12-year struggle to ensure representation.

Democracy is not just elections; it is “small d” democracy, too—workers finding their voice through organization and becoming critical community participants and workplace advocates.

About Mike Matejka

Mike Matejka is an author, historian, community activist and retired union representative. He served as the governmental affairs director for the Great Plains Laborers District Council, edited the Grand Prairie Union News for 40 years and was also elected for 18 years to the Bloomington City Council.

As an Illinois Labor History Society vice-president, he is knowledgeable on Illinois’ nationally significant labor history. He is a past-president and current board member of the McLean County Museum of History in Bloomington, where he was guest curator for five different exhibits, including two on railroad topics. Matejka has written for multiple publications and is currently completing an overview book on Illinois labor history.

JANE CHARMELO PHOTOS Rock Valley Publishing

photo (left to right) Princess Brooke Seymore talks with donor Tami Moberg of Lombard and phlebotomist José Zavala. The Lilac Princesses, including Princesses Alyssa Borbath and Gabrielle Walton, will be attending the Lilac Ball Friday, May 10, at The Carlisle in Lombard. Visit lombardchamber.com for details.

KARTHIKA GUPTA PHOTO Rock Valley Publishing NIAM board members attend a private preview of the new exhibition “Desi Roots and Wings.”

Chicago man charged with burglary and fleeing from police after allegedly stealing from Lombard Mariano’s

Accused now being detained after judge rules he violated terms of his original pre-trial release

DuPage County State’s Attorney Robert Berlin and Lombard Chief of Police Tom Wirsing have announced that Judge Joshua Dieden denied the state’s motion to detain pre-trial a Chicago man accused of fleeing from police after allegedly stealing $837.82 worth of alcohol from a Lombard Mariano’s grocery store.

Michael Howard, 43, appeared in First Appearance Court April 18 and is charged with one count of burglary (Class 2 felony), two counts of retail theft (Class 3 felony), one count of fleeing and eluding a police officer (Class 4 felony) and one count of misdemeanor resisting or obstructing a police officer.

Howard was out on pre-trial release after allegedly stealing 26 bottles of liquor from the Elmhurst

Jewel-Osco store at 944 S. York St. on March 15.

However, during a subsequent hearing held April 18 on the state’s motion to revoke Howard’s pretrial release in that case, Judge Brian Telander granted the state’s motion to revoke Howard’s pre-trial release since Howard violated the terms of his original release after allegedly stealing alcohol from the Lombard Mariano’s.

On April 17 at approximately 7:40 p.m., officers with the Lombard Police Department responded to a call of a retail theft in progress at the Mariano’s in the 300 block of W. Roosevelt Road. Upon his arrival, a Lombard police officer located the suspect, later identified as Howard, already in his vehicle, pulling out of the Mariano’s parking lot.

After following Howard for a short amount of time, the officer activated his emergency lights and sirens to initiate a traffic stop. It is alleged that instead of pulling over,

Meet Bailbridget

The area’s largest lilac sale in Lombard, the Lilac Village, will take place on May 9-11 at Lombard’s historic Lilacia Park in downtown Lombard. All sales will be in person and you may choose from 16 different lilacs of varying sizes. Colors of the blooms range from deep violet, magenta and lilac to pink, blue and white. Proceeds support the Lombard Garden Club’s scholarship program, community beautification projects and educational outreach about the environment and gardening in our region. This week’s feature is Bailbridget (syringa xhyacinthaflora) With its shiny violet new leaves, deep purple stems, raspberry-purple buds and fragrant violet flowers, it is aptly named. Leaf petioles remain violet well into the summer. Its density makes it a great choice for a hedge in smaller spaces as well as foundation plantings. Remarkably mildew-free, it is a late lilac season bloomer growing to a size of 6’ to 8’ tall x 5’ to 7’ wide. You may view color photos of the lilacs at www. lombardgardenclub.org.

Howard accelerated away from the officer.

Pursuit of the vehicle continued with assistance from the Oak Brook and Villa Park police departments.

It is alleged that during the pursuit, Howard reached speeds of 65 mph in a 35-mph zone. Near 25th Avenue and I-290, Oak Brook police successfully deployed spike strips stopping Howard’s vehicle.

It is alleged that once stopped, Howard refused to exit the vehicle and resisted a Villa Park police officer’s attempt to remove him. When searching Howard and his vehicle, officers found 18 bottles of alcohol in the vehicle and one bottle of alco-

hol in Howard’s pants. He was taken into custody at this time.

“It is alleged that Mr. Howard, who is currently on pre-trial release for stealing alcohol from a DuPage County grocery store, thumbed his nose at the law and again stole alcohol from a DuPage County grocery store,” Berlin said. “To further aggravate the matter, it is alleged that Mr. Howard once again ignored the law and attempted to flee from law enforcement, putting the motoring public at risk. Thankfully, no innocent motorists or pedestrians were injured or killed as a result of Mr. Howard’s alleged actions.

“The successful apprehension of

the defendant in this case sends the message that if you come to DuPage County to steal or otherwise break the law, you will be arrested, charged and prosecuted. I commend the Lombard Police Department for their efforts on this case as well as the Oak Brook and Villa Park police departments for their assistance.”

“I want to thank all of our law enforcement partners for their assistance on this case especially State’s Attorney Bob Berlin and his staff.” Wirsing said.

Howard’s next court appearance is scheduled for April 29, for arraignment in front of Judge Telander.

Wheaton man arrested for arson after he allegedly started fires at two Menards stores in Will County

Will County Sheriff Mike Kelley announced last week the arrest of a Wheaton man for aggravated arson, arson, burglary and criminal damage to property after the man allegedly started fires at Menards stores in Homer Glen and Tinley Park.

Nathan Grant, 33, was transported to the Will County Adult Detention Facility last week.

On April 18, at approximately 2:03 p.m., deputies with the Will County Sheriff’s Office responded to the Menards at 13956 S. Bell Road in Homer Glen regarding a fire that had occurred at the store.

When deputies arrived, they were advised by personnel with the Northwest Homer Fire Protection District that an unknown individual had al-

legedly placed cotton balls that were soaked in a flammable liquid between interior wooden doors located in an aisle of the store. The suspect then reportedly set the cotton balls on fire, causing damage to property and the surrounding area.

A total of 10 white interior doors and carpet were damaged in the fire. A Menards employee reportedly observed smoke coming from behind the doors and was able to put the fire out with a fire extinguisher.

Store surveillance video was utilized to locate a suspect who entered the store at about 1:40 p.m. The suspect was a white male wearing a black hat, black winter style coat, dark jeans and tan boots.

After the fire was started, the suspect left the store and returned to his car. Surveillance video reportedly showed the suspect’s vehicle leave the area, driving south on Bell Road before going out of camera view.

Once detectives arrived at the

Menards in Homer Glen, they learned of a similar incident that occurred at the Menards at 6851 W. 159th Street in Tinley Park, about one hour after the fire was set in Homer Glen.

With the use of license plate reader cameras, detectives were able to develop a license plate of the suspect vehicle, which was a gray BMW registered to Grant. With the assistance of the Wheaton Police Department, the vehicle was located in an apartment complex in Wheaton.

When Grant was taken into custody, he was reportedly wearing the same clothing observed on surveillance videos.

Detectives with the Will County Sheriff’s Office and the Tinley Park Police Department interviewed Grant at the Wheaton Police Department. Grant allegedly made numerous incriminating statements to detectives regarding the incidents at the Menards stores in Homer Glen and Tinley Park.

Michael Howard

Nathan Grant

Two

charged with stealing from area businesses in unrelated incidents

Allegations include enlisting minor children in commission of an offense

DuPage County State’s Attorney

Robert Berlin, Wheaton Deputy

Chief of Police Ryan Conway and Oak Brook

Chief of Police Brian Strockis have announced the recent arrests of two individuals accused of stealing from a Wheaton and an Oak Brook retail store in unrelated incidents during the weekend of April 13-14.

Jennifer Adams, 31, of Chicago and Victor Hugo Diaz Castillo, 42, a Venezuelan migrant currently staying Chicago, both appeared in First Appearance Court. Each was charged with one count of burglary (Class 2 felony) and one count of retail theft (Class 3 felony). Additionally, Adams is charged with one count of contributing to the de-

linquency of a minor, a Class 1 felony.

Both defendants were released pre-trial as the charges against them are non-detainable under the dangerousness standard.

It is alleged that on Tuesday, Dec. 12, 2023, at approximately 8:26 p.m., Adams entered the Ulta Beauty

store located at 112 Danada Square West, Wheaton, with her two minor children. It is further alleged that once inside the store, Adams selected more than $300 worth of fragrances and left the store.

Additionally, according to the criminal complaint filed against her, it is further alleged that Adams directed her two minor children “in the commission of a criminal offense, being a burglary to the Ulta Beauty.”

On Monday, March 11, following an investigation into the burglary conducted by the Wheaton Police Department, Judge Michael Burton issued an arrest warrant for Adams. She was arrested on the warrant on Friday, April 12.

On Saturday, April 13 at approx-

imately 4:34 p.m., officers with the Oak Brook Police Department responded to a call of a burglary at the Macy’s department store located at 1 Oakbrook Center.

It is alleged that Diaz Castillo entered Macy’s, selected more than $300 worth of Hugo Boss brand pants and shirts, and then left the store without paying for the merchandise. Oak Brook police officers arrested Diaz Castillo outside the store.

“The message DuPage County law enforcement is sending to wouldbe thieves is simple, if you come to DuPage County to steal, you will be arrested, charged and prosecuted,” Berlin said. “What I find particularly troubling in the case against Ms.

Adams is the allegation that she enlisted her two minor children to assist her in her criminal activity. Contrary to popular belief, retail theft is not a victimless crime and results in lost profits for business owners, lost wages for employees and higher prices for consumers. I commend the Wheaton and Oak Brook Police Departments for their continued efforts in keeping our retail establishments safe from those who believe that they can get away with this type of behavior in DuPage County.”

Adams’ next court appearance is scheduled Monday, May 6 for arraignment in courtroom 4012. Diaz’s next court appearance is scheduled Monday, May 13 for arraignment in courtroom 4006.

West Chicago man accused of fatal DUI denied pre-trial release

DuPage County State’s Attorney

Robert Berlin and West Chicago

Chief of Police

Colin Fleury have announced that

Judge Joshua Dieden has denied the State’s motion to detain pre-trial a West Chicago man accused of fatally striking a pedestrian with his car April 15.

James Vaughn, 43, appeared in First Appearance Court and is

Police reports

The Addison and Bensenville police departments recently reported the following arrests and citations. Persons who are charged with domestic battery are not named in order to protect the victim’s privacy. Readers are reminded that an arrest does not constitute a conviction, and that suspects are considered innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law. Juveniles age 17-or-younger are not named.

Addison

April 14

Oscar Juarez Escobedo, 28, of Lombard, was charged with obstructing identification, title/registration possession offense, driving while license expired and no insurance in the 400 block of Great Oaks Court at 10:42 a.m.

David E. Robinette, 32, of Godley, Ill., was charged with burglary and retail theft at a store near Lake and Highview at 3:41 p.m.

April 13

charged with two counts of aggravated DUI causing death, a Class 2 felony.

On Monday, April 15 at approximately 2:36 a.m., officers with the West Chicago Police Department responded to the area of Roosevelt Road and Pearl Road for a report of a motor vehicle crash involving a pedestrian. Upon their arrival, officers found the victim, Miguel Duran, 36, lying face down in the roadway. He was not breathing and was bleeding from the head.

Duran was transported to a local

April 12

Vance R. Estes, 39, of Itasca, was charged with criminal damage to property near Addison and Fullerton at 11:33 p.m.

Police said Araceli Lopez Santiz, 22, of Addison, was issued a warrant and was charged with DUI, leaving the scene of an accident with vehicle damage and driving too fast for conditions near Wooddale and Oak Meadows at 7:38 p.m.

Celio J. Murillo Carcamo, 24, of Addison, was charged with two counts of DUI in the 600 block of N. Lincoln at 12:54 a.m.

A 32-year-old Addison man was charged with two counts of domestic battery at 8:41 a.m.

A 39-year-old Addison woman was charged with two counts of domestic battery in the 600 block of N. Lincoln at 11:42 p.m.

A 29-year-old Addison man was charged with two counts of domestic battery in the 500 block of W. Rose at 11:37 p.m.

April 11

Rebeca Flores Montalvo, 26, of Addison, was charged with wrong way driving, disregarding a traffic control light and two counts of DUI

hospital where he was pronounced deceased. Following an investigation into the matter, it is alleged that Vaughn was traveling westbound on Roosevelt Road in his 2011 Jeep Liberty. It is further alleged that when Duran started to cross Roosevelt Road, Vaughn hit him with his vehicle.

When Vaughn was speaking with officers at the scene, officers allegedly detected an odor of alcohol as well as glassy and bloodshot eyes.

It is alleged that at the time of the crash Vaughn’s blood alcohol con-

tent (BAC) was 0.11 (the legal limit is 0.08). When searching Vaughn’s vehicle, officers found a can of Monaco, a canned alcoholic cocktail, behind the front passenger seat of the vehicle.

“Like all alleged DUI cases, the case against Mr. Vaughn was 100 percent avoidable,” Berlin said. “I offer my sincerest condolences to Miguel Duran’s family and friends as they grieve their loss and wish them strength as they adjust to their lives without Miguel’s love and friendship.

“As I have said countless times in

the past, if you have been drinking, do not drive. With ride-sharing services available with just the touch of a finger at any time day or night, there is absolutely no reason to drive after you have been drinking, yet people still continue to get behind the wheel when they know full well, they should not. Please, do yourself a favor and call a cab or use a ride-sharing service if you have been drinking.”

Vaughn’s next court appearance is scheduled Monday, May 13 for arraignment in front of Judge Margaret O’Connell.

in the 1-100 block of E. Fullerton at 10:57 p.m.

Bensenville

April 17, 6:35 a. m. near S. York Rd. and W. Grand Ave., Osmar D. Alonso, 18, of Wheeling, was arrested for possession of a stolen vehicle, aggravated fleeing/attempting to elude a police officer and other traffic violations. BEPC2400282

April 17, 10:28 a.m. in the 700 block of Maple Lane, a complainant reported their white trailer parked on the south side of the building was stolen by an unknown suspect. This case is under investigation. BEPC2400283

April 16, 9:42 a.m. in the 200 block of Grand Ave., a complainant reported unknown suspects cashed two fraudulent checks. This incident is under investigation. BEPC2400278

April 15, 10:34 p.m. in the 1000 block of W. Irving Park Rd., a complainant reported multiple cars were damaged by rocks being thrown by an unknown suspect. This incident is under investigation. BEPC2400277

April 12, 7:40 a.m. near E. Jefferson and Marion, officers arrest-

Addison Trail, Willowbrook, other schools celebrate Night of Noise Event serves to protest discrimination of LGBTQ+ people

On Friday, April 12, more than 100 students from nine local high schools, including Addison Trail and Willowbrook, participated in a Night of Noise at Willowbrook.

ed Ecxon J. Herrera-Correa, 26, of Bensenville, for fleeing and eluding. He was stopped, placed in custody, transported to the DuPage County Jail. BEPC2400270

April 11, 11:14 a.m. in the 1000 block of W. Irving Park Road, a victim reports fraudulent activity on their bank card. The incident is under investigation. BEPC2400268

State Rep. Diane Blair-Sherlock hosting property tax appeals seminars

Attorneys Jack Kozar and Jay Kostecki will hold a brief presentation that will include how property taxes are calculated and what assistance may be available to help lower your property taxes with a Q & A session to follow.

The locations and dates are as follows:

• Monday, April 29, from 6-7 p.m. at the Addison Public Library in the Large Meeting Room (4 Friendship Plaza, Addison).

• Wednesday, May 1, from 6-7 p.m. at the Glenside Library in the Community Room 1 (25 E. Fullerton, Glendale Heights)

• Thursday, May 2, from 6-7 p.m. at the Villa Park Library in the Meeting Room (305 S. Ardmore, Villa Park).

If you have any questions, call 630415-3520 or email at JaxWest.D46@ gmail.com.

Lawmakers, cannabis industry calls for ban on ‘delta-8’ and other psychoactive hemp products

By Hannah Meisel CAPITOL NEWS ILLINOIS

operators have put into trying to get their businesses off the ground.

“It is deeply disheartening and, frankly, a betrayal by the state to allow these shops to pop up and call themselves dispensaries,” Ron Miller, a co-owner of his family-run Navada Labs and BLYSS Dispensary in Mt. Vernon, said at a Capitol news conference April 11.

During the Night of Noise, partic-

The evening was a culminating event to gather together and “Break the Silence” after participating in the GLSEN Day of Silence, “a nationally recognized student-led demonstration, where LGBTQ+ students and allies throughout the country – and the world – protest the harmful effects of harassment and discrimination of LGBTQ+ people in schools.”

ipants enjoyed games, food, music, celebration and camaraderie. The goal is to bring attention to ways schools and communities can become more inclusive. Pupils from Willowbrook, Addison Trail and York high schools met via Zoom to plan the festivities.

Illinois’ largest cannabis business association is pushing to ban the sale of delta-8 THC, an increasingly popular psychoactive substance that’s popped up in corner stores across the country in recent years. New legislation recently filed in Springfield revives an ongoing debate over delta-8 and other hemp-derived products, which are totally unregulated in Illinois even as the state approaches the five-year anniversary of legalizing cannabis.

For those who’ve been trying to break into Illinois’ still-young cannabis industry, the state’s inaction on delta-8 is an insult to the thousands of dollars and years of work that some business

Hemp and marijuana are both derived from cannabis plants, but hemp can only contain 0.3 percent or less THC. If it contains more THC than that, it is considered marijuana. In 2018, the annual federal “Farm Bill” made the distribution and sale of hemp and its byproducts legal federally.

Jennifer Adams Victor Hugo Diaz Castillo

James Vaughn

Obituaries

PATRICIA A. MANADE, 90

Patricia A. (nee Ryan) Manade, age 90, a longtime resident of Lombard passed away April 15, 2024. She was the loving mother of and is survived by her children Catherine (William) Romanelli, Patricia (James) Wadycki, Robert Jr., Michael (Cheryl), Suzanne (Scott) Stickel, Philip (Mary), Joyce (Robert) Larem, David and Martin; grandmother of Daniel (Emily) Romanelli, Patricia (Matthew) Lannon, Nicholas Wadycki, James Wadycki, Mary Ellen Manade, Mary Katherine (James) Hess, Michael Robert (Ashley) Manade, Kaitlyn (William) Bausch, Matthew (Josie) Manade, Timothy (Teresa) Larem, Christopher Larem, Andrew (Kristie) Larem; great-grandmother of 15; and aunt of many beloved nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her loving husband of 57 years, Robert L. Manade, and her parents, John Sr. and Evelyn Ryan. She was the beloved sister of the late John Jr. (Amelia) Ryan, Delores (Frank) Raimondi, William (Evelyn) Demke, Catherine

Ryan, and Martin P. Ryan; sister-inlaw of the late Grace (Ben) Zmuda, Jean (Mike) Branson, Jeanette (Jerry) Lyons and Edward (Patricia) Manade.

Patricia was a long-time parishioner at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Lombard. She loved her family, gardening, watching the Chicago Cubs and her many new friends and staff members at Atria Park of Glen Ellyn.

Funeral services were held Monday, April 22, from Brust Funeral Home to Mass at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, 114 S. Elizabeth St., Lombard. Interment followed at Queen of Heaven Cemetery, Hillside.

In lieu of flowers memorials in Patricia’s name to Sacred Heart Church, 114 S. Elizabeth St., Lombard, IL 60148; and Suncrest Hospice, 777 Oakmont Lane, Ste 1400, Westmont, IL 60559 would be appreciated. Info: www.brustfuneralhome.com or 888-629-0094.

RICHARD P. WALLACE, 65

Richard P. Wallace, a cherished member of the community known for his warmth, generosity, and spirited laughter, passed away unexpectedly at the age of 65, on Good Friday, March 29, 2024. Richard, a proud US Marine Corps Veteran, leaves

behind a legacy of service, kindness, and unwavering love for his family, country and God.

Born and raised in Chicago, Richard (aka Patrick) pursued a love of learning with dedication and enthusiasm, earning him a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Illinois Chicago. Throughout his life, he traveled the world, collecting countless memories and memorabilia along the way; was an avid reader, writer of poetry, jigsaw puzzle mas-

Coming events

Spring Craft and Vendor Fair

May 5

ter and theatre lover, pursuing several acting roles. In the 90’s, Patrick found joy as a beloved Santa Claus at Marshall Fields on State Street and the Drake Hotel. His hearty laugh, jolly demeanor, and genuine care for others endeared him in the hearts of many.

His commitment to serving others extended beyond his role as Santa Claus, volunteering his time and resources to various charitable organizations and causes. His Christian faith guided his compassionate nature, inspiring him to help those in need and spread joy wherever he went.

Patrick will be deeply missed by his children: Lisa Wallace, Henry (Liana) Wallace and Julie Wallace, granddaughter Amaya, sister Jean (Michael) Milazzo, and close friend Sandy McCann. His legacy of kindness, laughter, and service will continue to inspire and uplift us. Though he may no longer be with us in person, his spirit will live on in the hearts of those who loved him dearly.

A celebration of Richard’s life will be held 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, May 4, 2024, at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Lombard IL where friends and family will gather to remember and honor his life.

tion including a list of confirmed vendors, please visit the library’s website at www.vppl.info or call 630-834-1164.

The Friends of the Villa Park Library will host a Spring Craft & Vendor Fair on Sunday, May 5, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Villa Park Public Library. Join the Friends and local businesses for an afternoon of fun. Vendors will be selling a variety of merchandise. Drawings for door prize will be held. Admission is free. For more informa-

Bingo May 6 at Villa Park VFW

Free Bingo Monday, May 6, 1:30-2:45 p.m. at the Villa Park VFW 2801, 39 E. St. Charles Road, Villa Park. Please RSVP to Anna at 630-205-3596. Prizes, fun, bring a friend, coffee and snacks.

information, call or email. We will then contact you to set up a photo appointment and pick up the copy for your cutline

Don’t miss out on this great advertising special because you waited too long to call! Space is limited and each year we turn away businesses due to space limitations. Call 630-834-8244

Coming events

Speech-language pathology careers panel discussion May 2

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

Lent and Easter Services at 7 p.m.

Sunday Worship at 10:15 am

“The Crucial Hours”

Sunday School & Bible Study 9 am

Wednesday Service at 7pm

Second Lenten Service March 9, 2022

Ladies Bible Fellowship Mondays at 6:30 pm

Rev. David Ernest “Satan Has Asked to Sift All of You” Jerusalem Lutheran, Morton Grove Matthew 27:15-26

Saturday, April 27 Game Night at 4 pm

Third Lenten Service

Everyone is Welcome!

March 16, 2022

Rev. Paul Spaude “What to Remember When Your are St. Matthews, Niles Seized with Remorse” Matthew 27:3-4

All services are live streamed. Watch on our website or on Facebook. sainttimothy.org 453344

Fourth Lenten Service March 23, 2022

Rev. Jonathan Bergemann “I Will Keep the Passover” Good Shepherd, Downers Grove Matthew 26:18

Fifth Lenten Service

Speech-language pathologists work in a variety of clinical settings, ranging from schools to hospitals to private practice. During the panel discussion at Elmhurst University, “From Class to Clinical Practice” on Thursday, May 2, alumni from Elmhurst University’s Communication Sciences and Disorders program will talk about their experiences transitioning from the classroom to the clinic, the challenges and rewards of their work, and how they have used their education to make a difference in the lives of their clients. “From Class to Clinical Practice” begins at 7 p.m. in the Frick Center, Alexander Room (190 Prospect Ave., Elmhurst, elmhurst. edu/campusmap). This lecture will also be livestreamed. Admission is free but reservations are encouraged, at elmhurst.edu/cultural. For more information, email marketing@elmhurst.edu.

GPS program May 1

in advance, contact Gilda Ross, Glenbard District 87 student and community projects coordinator, at gilda_ross@glenbard.org or 630942-7668.

Free Comic Book Day at Villa Park Library

Celebrate Free Comic Book Day all day at the Villa Park Public Library on Saturday, May 4, from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Pick up a comic book craft to make or take home, while supplies last. For more information, visit the library’s website at www.vppl.info or call 630-8341164.

Bernardin Lecture April 30

March 30, 2022

Rev. Tom Nicholson “They Bound Him” Resurrection, Aurora John 18:12

Sixth Lenten Service

April 6, 2022

Rev. Phil Schupmann “The Semblance of Legality” Resurrection, Aurora Luke 22:66

Maundy Thursday Communion 7 p.m., April 14

Good Friday Tenebrae 7 p.m., April 15

Easter Sunrise 6:30 a.m., April 17

Sunday Worship at 9:45 AM

Easter Breakfast

Come worship with us!

8 a.m., April 17

Easter Festival 10:15 a.m., April 17

300 East Belden Avenue, Elmhurst, IL 60126 www.ODMFellowship.Org 452638

Weekend Masses:

Saturday: 4 PM (Vigil)

Sunday: 7:30, 9:30 & 11:30 AM and 6 PM

Daily Masses:

Monday—Friday: 6:15 and 8:15 AM

Saturday: 8:15 AM

The Glenbard Parent Series: (GPS) Navigating Healthy Families will present “And Then They Stopped Talking to Me: Surviving Middle School” with journalist Judith Warner at noon and 7 p.m. Wednesday, May 1, via Zoom. Warner is a former special correspondent for Newsweek and a compelling speaker on motherhood, mental health and the media. She is the author of “And Then They Stopped Talking to Me” and several other prize-winning books. Go to glenbardgps.org for further information and the links to these webinars. To be placed on a reminder list for GPS events or submit a question

For this year’s Cardinal Joseph Bernardin Lecture at Elmhurst University, members of the University community and the greater Catholic community will offer responses to Cardinal John Henry Newman’s book “The Idea of a University.” Speakers at the Bernardin Lecture will include: Justin Reyes, director of the Department of Catechesis and Evangelization, Diocese of Joliet; Elaine Fetyko Page, head of technical services, A.C. Buehler Library; Mike Murray, head football coach, Elmhurst University; Joan Vilim, Elmhurst University trustee; Nick Behm, professor and chair, Department of English; students from Fenwick High School, in Oak Park, and Elmhurst University. The 2024 Bernardin Lecture begins at 5:30 p.m. in Hammerschmidt Memorial Chapel (190 Prospect Ave., Elmhurst, elmhurst.edu/campusmap). Admission is free and all are welcome. For more information, please email marketing@elmhurst. edu.

Visitation Catholic Church

779 S. York Street

Elmhurst, IL

630 834 6700

www.visitationparish.org

Confessions:

Saturday: 3�3:45PM Sunday: 5�5:45 PM

Adoration:

Available in Our Lady Mother of the Eucharist Chapel 24/7

Stations of the Cross: Fridays during Lent at 7 PM 451772

Solar investments take center stage as questions loom on

By Andrew Adams CAPITOL NEWS ILLINOIS

A manufacturer in the southwest suburbs of Chicago received $2.6 million from electric utility Commonwealth Edison last week as part of a state program for generating its own electricity using solar panels and storing it in one of the largest batteries in the country.

But even as solar projects have boomed in Illinois in recent years, the head of the state agency responsible for approving renewable projects said changes to state law may be necessary to phase out fossil fuels by 2050.

G&W Electric Co., which installed a “microgrid” at its Bolingbrook facility, captures energy from the sun using eight football fields’ worth of solar panels and stores the electricity generated in a vanadium redox battery built inside 20 shipping containers.

Company representatives hailed the state-of-the-art battery storage as a step toward resilience to storms and regular disruptions to the electric grid. The solar panels deliver electricity to the factory and keep the batteries charged, with the batteries designed to power the facility during an outage.

The company’s chairman and owner, John Mueller, said that project has saved $1.8 million in lost production time due to “microinterruptions” in the factory’s electricity supply since it came online late last year.

The project received a record-high rebate from ComEd as part of the Distributed Generation Rebate program, which was created in 2017 by the Future Energy Jobs Act and expanded in 2021 with the Climate and Equitable Jobs Act. ComEd has given out $130 million in rebates since the program was created.

Gov. JB Pritzker, speaking at G&W Electric on April 15, said that projects like this are a way that companies can “join the fight against climate change” and that the project was “setting a standard for solar investing.”

This and other state programs have contributed to an explosion in the number of solar projects in the past 2 ½ years. Pritzker said that since the passage of CEJA, the state has doubled the percentage of its electricity production that comes

from renewables.

“I’m very pleased about the direction that we’re going,” Pritzker said. “I obviously would like it to accelerate more.”

The federal Energy Information Administration, which calculates renewable generation independently using a different methodology from the state, reported that in December 2023, the state produced about 15.2 percent of its energy from renewables, behind the national average of 20.9 percent.

The state’s current goal is to have 40 percent of its retail electricity sales come from renewable energy by 2030.

The Illinois Power Agency is responsible for managing electricity procurement for the state and manages Illinois’ renewable portfolio by approving renewable energy projects’ contracts.

Brian Granahan, the acting director of the Illinois Power Agency, said the current pace for solar developments is doing its part to help the state meet its renewable energy goals, but other renewables are falling short. State law sets a goal of solar making up 55 percent of the state’s renewable energy portfolio, with the other 45 percent coming from wind and hydroelectric projects.

“We’ve made so much progress since CEJA passed,” Granahan told Capitol News Illinois.

But despite ambitious goals for purchasing energy from wind projects, Granahan said few projects have been approved, calling the situation “very challenging.”

Across the four “procurement events” the IPA has held since CEJA went into effect, the agency has approved three wind projects compared to the 34 solar projects. An analysis prepared by outside consultants for IPA in May 2023 revealed that two of those events resulted in no new contracts for wind developments at all.

This is partly due to developers being forced to navigate a complex system to select sites for wind developments – something the state took control of early last year. Wind development is also facing a downturn in interest nationally, according to Granahan.

To address this, the legislature may need to revise the state’s ener-

District 87 recognized for music education

Glenbard District 87 received the Best Communities for Music Education designation from The NAMM Foundation for outstanding commitment to music education for the second year in a row.

The Best Communities for Music Education recognition is awarded to school districts that demonstrate outstanding achievement in efforts to provide music access and education to all students.

“The fine and performing arts are vital to the fabric of a comprehensive high school. In Glenbard, we value these programs and recognize

gy policy yet again to allow for more flexibility within its goals, according to Granahan.

“If there isn’t the same interest on behalf of companies developing wind projects, then does it make sense to have these goals by technology hard coded in statute?” Granahan said.

While no specific legislation is pending that would change the requirements for the state’s renewable portfolio, a spokesperson for the governor’s office said Pritzker “strongly supports solutions that help Illinois

state’s renewable future

achieve its clean energy goals” and that he would review any legislation passed by the General Assembly.

The IPA also faces another issue that affects both wind and solar developers: its budget for buying renewable energy.

Last spring, the agency published an analysis of the budget it uses to purchase renewable energy credits on behalf of utilities. The analysis projected several scenarios based on variable energy prices.

While the agency is working on an updated version of that report, it

highlighted what Granahan called “massive uncertainty” that comes with long-term planning involving energy prices. That uncertainty can result in developers being hesitant to propose new projects because they are uncertain that money will be available to purchase renewable energy in the future.

“We’re saying to ourselves, ‘Okay, we should be good doing all this activity through 2025, 2026,’” Granahan said. “And then we’ll know more based on what happens in those procurements.”

the life-changing impact they have on our students and the unique ways they bring our communities together,” said Superintendent David Larson. “Thank you to our students, faculty and staff for their significant work in the area of music education. Also, many thanks to our community, which is very supportive of our fine and performing arts program.” School districts were evaluated on their graduation requirements, music class participation, instruction time, facilities, funding, support for the music program and community music-making programs.

Can’t-miss events in and around DuPage County

Editor’s note: If you have information on an event in DuPage County taking place that you would like us to consider listing here, please email that information to: news1@rvpublishing.com.

Ongoing

Train Saturdays

DuPage County Historical Museum

Wheaton

The DuPage Society of Model Engineers operates the model railroad at the museum, 102 E. Wesley St., on the third and fifth Saturday of the month. The layout covers more than 2,000 feet of track and highlights some of DuPage County’s landmarks in a landscape full of surprises. Your family will love watching the trains run. See if you can spot Superman and the Batmobile. For more information, visit: https://dupagemuseum. org/calendar/category/train-saturdays.

North Suburban Carvers meetings

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

Now through the end of April

Meet Me at the Fair: The Chicago World’s Fairs in DuPage County

Recurring weekly on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday, in the 19th and 20th centuries, expositions and world fairs worked to celebrate the past while also highlighting visions of the future. Chicago hosted two expositions: The World’s Columbian Exposition in 1893 and A Century of Progress World’s Fair in 193334. Meet Me at the Fair: The Chicago World’s Fairs in DuPage County looks at the ways in which these two expositions impacted DuPage County residents by exploring the various advancements of art, architecture, social issues, agriculture, and technology that were happening during these points of time. Admission: Free. For more information, visit: https://dupagemuseum. org/collections-exhibits/.

Now through May 31

Built to Last: Celebrating DuPage County’s historical architecture exhibit

Wheaton

Presented by the DuPage County Historical Museum, 102 E. Wesley St., and recurring weekly Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday Friday, Saturday and Sunday, the exhibit focuses on the historical architecture of DuPage County. Through this exhibit you can explore the unique architectural styles expressed over the decades and how they influenced DuPage. The array of buildings within the area now sits in harmony with their modern-day counterparts as the historic buildings continue to be preserved and celebrated. While most of these buildings are used for a new purpose, their unique designs have remained the same since the day they were erected. Admission: free. For more information, visit: https://dupagemuseum.org/collections-exhibits.

Now through Dec. 21

Leapin’ Lizards: 100 Years of Little Orphan Annie Lombard

Recurring weekly on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, at the Lombard Historical Society, 23 W. Maple St., “Little Orphan Annie” is turning 100 years old. While the character is well known, most people don’t know that the comic was created in Harold Gray’s home (that is still standing today!) and is still one of the most iconic and enduring comic strips of all time.

“Leapin’ Lizards! 100 years of Little Orphan Annie” is the newest exhibit at the Lombard Historical Society that honors Gray and is a tribute to the enduring power of storytelling, the magic of comic art, and the nostalgia of a bygone era. For more information, visit: www.lombardhistory.org.

Thursday, April 25-Saturday, April 27

Arbor Day plant sale

Lisle

From 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. each day at the Morton Arboretum, 4100 Route 53, The Arbor Day plant sale is one of the largest seasonal plant sales in the Chicago area It offers thousands of carefully chosen plants, and expert Plant Geniuses are available throughout the sale to answer questions and suggest plants. Space is

DuPage Destinations

• Events

(Continued from page12)

limited and tickets are first come, first serve. Admission: $15 for members, $32 for guests (includes Arboretum admission and a $15 credit voucher). https://mortonarb. org/explore/activities/events/arborday-plant-sale.

Saturday, April 27-Sunday,

April 28

Spring Garden Show - Winfield

From 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day at Antiques of Winfield, 27W461 Beecher Ave., don’t miss the Spring Garden Show. It will be a huge outdoor tent sale featuring garden, yard, and patio decor. For more information, visit: https://antiquesofwinfield. com/events.

Sunday, April 28

Sheep shearing - West Chicago

From 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. at Kline Creek Farm, 1N600 County Farm Road, watch farmers hand-shear the farm’s heritage Cotswold sheep, and learn about the role of sheep on an 1890s farm. Admission: free. For more information, visit: www. dupageforest.org/things-to-do/ calendar-of-events?trumbaEmbed=view%3Devent%26eventid%3D172650010.

Friday, May 3

Family bingo night - Glen Ellyn

From 5 to 7 p.m. at Ackerman SFC, 800 St. Charles Road, spend an evening at Ackerman SFC packed with bingo, pizza, and prizes. We’ll play

several rounds starting at 5:30 p.m. Prizes, such as gift cards and candy, will be awarded at the end of each round. Pre-registration is not required. Kids ages 15 and under must be accompanied by an adult. Drop in anytime with the entire family and have some fun. Price: $1 per card. For more information, visit: https://gepark.org/gepdevent/ family-bingo-night-spring.

Saturday, May 4

Characters on Water Street - Naperville

From 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. in downtown Naperville, The Force will be strong as costumed characters from a galaxy far, far away will take over Water Street for a free family friendly meet and greet.

Wild Meadows

on Spring Road

All Registration will be done online! Parents can register and pay via credit card online at

www.ayso399.org

Look for the Registration Link Deadline: June 10, 2024

PUZZLE Page

Answers on page 20

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.

Sports

Rams extend their winning streak to seven games

Frano hits a pair of three-run homers to lead Glenbard East to

The Glenbard East baseball team won four straight Upstate Eight Conference contests last week to run its winning streak to seven games. The Rams owned an overall record of 11-7-1 and a conference mark of 7-2 at the end of the week.

The Rams began their successful week with a 15-0 victory at Elgin on April 15. One day later, Glenbard East beat Bartlett 5-1 in Lombard. The Rams earned their third win in as many days when they defeated Elgin 10-4 in Lombard on April 17. Glenbard East concluded its week with Friday’s 15-6 home win over Streamwood.

The Rams opened their conference season with two straight onerun losses, falling 5-4 to Bartlett on April 8 and losing 8-7 to Glenbard South on April 9. Glenbard East then picked up two conference wins over Fenton, followed by a win at Glenbard South on April 13.

The Rams’ 15-0 win at Elgin lasted just five innings. Glenbard East connected for seven hits in the game, while Elgin committed four errors.

Senior Chris Ludwig and sophomore Lucas Calderin provided two hits each during the Rams’ lop-sided April 15 win over the Maroons.

Senior Peter Ahern pitched four innings and earned the win in last

week’s game at Elgin. Ahern recorded six strikeouts while allowing three hits and one walk.

Senior Trevor Rehnstrom pitched a complete game to lead Glenbard East to last week’s 5-1 home win over Bartlett. Rehnstrom allowed four hits and two walks over seven innings. He struck out 11 batters.

Bartlett scored its only run of the game in the top of the first inning. The Rams scored all five of their runs during the bottom of the second inning. Senior Brett Vercruysse drilled a three-run home run in the second inning to give Glenbard East its 5-1 lead.

Calderin pitched the first five innings of last week’s home win over Elgin on April 17. He allowed three earned runs, seven hits and three walks while striking out four batters. Junior Brian Kud pitched two shutout innings to close out Glenbard East’s victory. Kud, who didn’t allow any hits in his two innings on the mound, issued one walk and recorded three strikeouts.

Ahern, junior Devin Kraft and junior Ryan Frano supplied two hits each in the Rams’ 10-4 home win over Elgin. Frano drove in two runs. Ahern and Kraft contributed one RBI each.

Frano bashed a pair of three-run homers during Friday’s home victo-

ry over Streamwood. He went 2-for3 with six RBIs and scored three runs in the game.

Glenbard East trailed Streamwood 5-1 when Frano stepped to the plate in the bottom of third inning. He launched a three-run homer to right field to cut the Sabres’ lead to 5-4.

Streamwood owned a 6-5 lead when Frano made his next plate appearance in the bottom of the fourth inning. He drilled another three-run homer to right field. His second blast of the day gave the Rams an 8-6 lead.

Vercruysse went 2-for-3 with three RBIs in Friday’s win over Streamwood. Junior Horacio Solis went 3-for-4 with two runs batted in. Kraft went 3-for-5 with one RBI. Senior Grant Bruen went 2-for-3 with one RBI. Ludwig went 2-for-5 with one RBI.

Junior Konrad Toth pitched the first six innings of Friday’s game for the Rams. He struck out seven batters while allowing seven hits and six earned runs. Ludwig pitched a scoreless seventh inning, retiring the side in order to end the game.

The Rams’ schedule this week includes one conference game at Streamwood, along with a twogame conference series against East Aurora.

A great week for the Broncos

The Montini Catholic baseball team ran its winning streak to six games by defeating Chicago’s De La Salle Institute 15-8 on Saturday in Lombard. The Broncos raised their overall season record to 13-5-1 with Saturday’s victory. Montini began its winning streak with an 8-0 win over Aurora Central Catholic on April 13. The Broncos then beat Aurora Central Catholic 12-2 on April 15. Montini picked up its next two wins over IC Catholic Prep, defeating the Knights 5-2 on April 16 and 10-0 on April 18. The Broncos’ winning streak continued with Friday’s 10-8 victory at Hinsdale Central. Montini senior Quinn Boyer is pictured (above middle) while belting a grand slam homer to left field in the bottom of the sixth in -

its seventh straight victory

Glenbard East’s baseball team recorded four straight Upstate Eight Conference wins last week. Those four victories ran the Rams’ winning streak to seven consecutive games and moved the team to 11-7-1 overall and 7-2 in conference play. Glenbard East junior Brian Kud (No. 11) is pictured (above left) while firing a pitch during last week’s 10-4 home win over Elgin. Kud pitched two scoreless innings to close out the victory. He struck out three batters and didn’t allow any hits. Another photo (above right) from the same game shows junior Horacio Solis (No. 2) of the Rams at the plate. Glenbard East completed its week with Friday’s 15-6 conference win over Streamwood in Lombard. Junior Ryan Frano belted a pair of three-run home runs to lead the Rams to Friday’s victory.

ning of Saturday’s contest. Another photo (above left) shows Boyer (No. 15) and his teammates celebrating the bases-loaded blast, which pushed Montini’s lead to 14-6. It was Boyer’s fourth home run and second grand slam of the season. He also hit a bases-loaded homer in the team’s March 16 home win over Chicago’s Payton College Preparatory High School. Another photo (above right) from Saturday’s game shows Montini senior Dominic Catalano, who pitched the top of the seventh inning. Senior catcher Anthony Manganello went 3-for-3 and drove in three runs for the Broncos during Saturday’s win. Junior Nick Sheeran went 3-for-4 with three RBIs. Junior Jack Barrett went 2-for-4 and drove in one run.

Chris Fox photos Rock Valley Publishing

Chris Fox photos Rock Valley Publishing

Conference action

The Willowbrook softball team opened its West Suburban Gold Conference season with last week’s games against Morton, Leyden and Addison Trail. The Warriors earned a 12-2 win at Morton on April 15. Two days later, Willowbrook beat Leyden 12-2 in Villa Park. The Warriors fell to 2-1 in conference play following Friday’s 10-6 loss at Addison Trail. Willowbrook senior Isabella Dugo (No. 33) is pictured (above right) during last week’s home game against Leyden. She went 2-for-2 with a pair of home runs and drove in three runs in the Warriors’ five-inning victory over the Eagles. Willowbrook senior pitcher Karman Rowe (No. 21) is pictured (above middle) during Friday’s contest at Addison Trail. Rowe went 3-for-4 at the plate with two doubles and one RBI against the Blazers. She allowed three earned runs during six innings in the circle in Friday’s game, which was played in extremely windy conditions. Willowbrook spilt Saturday’s non-conference doubleheader at Naperville Central. After suffering a 16-11 loss in the opener, the Warriors earned a 7-6 win in eight innings in the second game. Willowbrook’s overall season record stood at 10-6 after the doubleheader. Freshman Aleena McNamara of the Warriors went 2-for-4 with a home run and three RBIs during Saturday’s second game. Addison Trail moved to 6-9 overall and 1-2 in conference action following Friday’s win over Willowbrook. Junior Marisa Lloveras (above left) pitched a complete game for the Blazers on Friday. She allowed seven hits and three earned runs while recording eight strikeouts over seven innings. Lloveras hit a two-run home run in the bottom of the fourth inning. Addison Trail junior Nina Matthews went 3-for-4 with a home run and four RBIs in Friday’s game. She is pictured (far left) while heading for home after her two-run homer in the bottom of the fifth inning.

Warriors battle the Red Devils

Willowbrook’s boys volleyball team faced Hinsdale Central in last week’s match in Villa Park. The Warriors won the first game of the April 16 battle, and had a match point in the second game, but the visiting Red Devils rallied to earn a 29-31, 27-25, 25-22 victory. Willowbrook senior Andrew Ciesinski (No. 11above left) bashed 13 kills and made three blocks during the tight match. Senior

Carter Ferguson (No. 9 - above middle) provided seven kills and 14 assists for the Warriors, while senior Jason Hasler (No. 14 - above right) contributed six kills. Willowbrook’s record dropped to 3-8 with the loss. The Warriors slipped to 3-9 following their 25-16, 25-13 loss at York on April 18.

Chris Fox photos Rock Valley Publishing

Chris Fox photos Rock Valley Publishing

Advocates renew push to tighten firearm laws aimed at protecting domestic violence victims

By Cole Longcor CApitoL NEWs iLLiNois

Advocates for stricter gun laws rallied at the state Capitol last week for a measure aimed at protecting domestic violence victims and two other criminal justice reforms.

The bills are backed by organizations such as Moms Demand Action and One Aim Illinois among others.

“These policies support those communities most impacted by the gun violence crisis,” Yolanda Androzzo, One Aim Illinois program director, said at a rally April 16. “It’s an opportunity to ensure protection and justice for survivors of gun violence.”

A proposal dubbed Karina’s Bill, contained in House Bill 4469 and Senate Bill 2633 , is a response to the 2023 shooting death of Karina Gonzalez and her daughter in Chicago. Gonzalez’s husband, Jose Alvarez, had an order of protection against him when he was alleged to have committed the murder last year.

Karina’s Bill would require law enforcement to confiscate firearms when an emergency order of protection is granted with a firearm remedy. It would also require a judge to issue a search warrant in cases where the remedy is granted, provided the judge finds there is probable cause that the individual possesses a firearm and is a threat to the victim.

The proposal would also prohibit gun owners from transferring the firearms to another individual instead of surrendering them to law enforcement along with their Firearm Owner’s Identification, or FOID, card.

The bill also adds an “intimate partner”—such as present and past spouses, dating or engaged relationships—to the list of those who can petition for a firearm restraining order. Previously, only family members and law enforcement officers could petition for such a remedy.

Both versions of the bill are still in committee.

The bill cleared committee on a 10-5 vote earlier this month and is awaiting action in the House.

The measure would clarify the process for victims who seek specific orders of protection under the state’s firearm remedy—one of 18 specific remedies that can accompany an order of protection. Individuals can petition the court for such a remedy, and the bill would amend the process for what happens when it is granted.

Rams beat East Aurora

Glenbard East’s girls soccer team moved its Upstate Eight Conference record to 1-1 following last week’s 4-0 home victory over East Aurora. The Rams led the visiting Tomcats 1-0 at halftime of the April 18 match in Lombard. Senior Ciara Johnson scored Glenbard East’s first-half goal on an assist from senior Hope McKenna. Freshman Sam Anderson gave the Rams a 2-0 lead when she scored a goal with an assist from junior Cleo Glenzinski. Johnson’s second goal of the match pushed Glenbard East’s lead to 3-0. She is pictured (above right) while sliding to kick the ball into the net for her second-half goal, which was assisted by Glenzinski. Senior Maya Reinheimer (No. 3 - above left) scored the Rams’ fourth and final goal of the evening on an assist by McKenna. Glenbard East sophomore goalkeeper Emily Brumbaugh earned her first varsity shutout. Two days before facing East Aurora, the Rams opened their conference season with a 1-0 loss at West Chicago. The Wildcats scored the only goal of the April 16 match during the second half. Glenbard East’s overall season record fell to 3-4-3 following Saturday’s 6-0 non-conference loss at Oak Park and River Forest High School. The Rams’ schedule this week includes a non-conference match against Glenbard North, along with conference battles against Streamwood, Elgin and South Elgin.

NotiCE

CErtiFiCAtE No 79393 was filed in the office of the County Clerk of Dupage County on MArCh 28, 2024, wherein the business firm of GMh CoUriEr sErViCE, 323 N. ELiZABEth strEEt, 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: Grant heath, 323 N. Elizabeth street, Lombard, iL 60148.

iN WitNEss WhErEoF,

Chris Fox photos Rock Valley Publishing

10 Montini Catholic seniors vie for prom king, queen crowns

Montini Catholic High School has announced the senior members of its 2024 prom court. The king and queen will be announced and crowned during the school’s prom, which takes place this Friday, April 26. The prom, themed Monti-ni Carlo, will be held at Venuti’s in Addison. The members of Montini’s 2024 prom court are (pictured left to right): Jasmin Baker-Rohlehr, Rory O’Connor, Sofia Fisher (Lombard), Betsy Beirne, Anjay Dhir (Lombard), Anthony Spidale, Gianna Luna, Cole Stumbaugh, Ella Herrmann (Lombard) and Maddox Shepherd. Answers puZZLe 1 puZ ZLe 2

Level Up Lombard Parks, Plan to Play

Seeking community feedback May 1

This year, the Lombard Park District is mapping its future by updating its comprehensive and strategic plan. Part of this process will be hearing from the community and allowing residents to share their insights and ideas through a website, surveys and in-person events.

The Level Up Lombard Comprehensive and Strategic Plan process kicked off by launching a new interactive website where the community can give direct feedback to the Park District about parks, programs, facilities and more. Residents will have several in-person opportunities to provide feedback in the coming weeks and months.

These include pop-up events and focus group meetings. A popup event opportunity will be Wednesday, May 1, at Sunset Knoll Recreation Center from 5:45 - 7:45 p.m.

Parkgoers are invited to stop by the Level Up Lombard booth to share their thoughts on the Park District’s future. Updating this plan will allow the Park District to ensure its work reflects the community’s priorities for parks and recreation. Help plan the future of your Park District.

Mark your calendar with upcoming in-person feedback opportunities, or visit the website to provide feedback and learn more about the process.

Stay connected on additional in-person events on Lombard Park District’s Facebook page. For more information, visit lombardparks. com or give us a call at 630-620-7322.

NOTICE

CERTIFICATE NO. 79394 was filed in the office of the County Clerk of DuPage County on MARCH 29, 2024 wherein the business firm of LINDSEY’S LOVIES, 535 N. IOWA AVENUE, VILLA PARK, IL 60181was 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: Lindsey Graham, 535 N. Iowa Avenue, Villa Park, IL 60181.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and Official Seal at my office in Wheaton, Illinois, this 29TH day of MARCH, A.D. 2024.

Jean Kaczmarek

DuPage County Clerk

(Published in the Addison Independent, Bensenville Independent & Villa Park Review April 11, 18 & 25, 2024) 453714

NOTICE

CERTIFICATE NO. 79401 was filed in the office of the County Clerk of DuPage County on APRIL 3, 2024 wherein the business firm of BRIDGE2FINANCE, 1130 N FISCHER DRIVE, ADDISON, IL 60101

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: Elijah Aquino, 1130 N. Fischer Drive, Addison, IL 60101.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and Official Seal at my office in Wheaton, Illinois, this 3RD day of APRIL, A.D. 2024.

Jean Kaczmarek

DuPage County Clerk

(Published in the Addison Independent, Bensenville Independent & Villa Park Review April 11, 18 & 25, 2024) 453775

NOTICE OF PUBLIC MEETING

On May 8, 2024 at 9:00 a.m., a meeting conducted by Villa Park School District 45 will take place at 255 W. Vermont St., Villa Park, IL. The purpose of the meeting will be to discuss the district’s plans for providing special education services to students with disabilities who attend private schools or home schools within the boundaries of District 45 for the 2024-2025 school year. If you are the parent of a home-schooled or

privately placed student who has been or may be identified with a disability within the boundaries of School District 45, you are urged to attend. Please RSVP whether you will be attending or not to Linette Miceli at lmiceli@d45.org by April 30, 2024.

If you have further questions pertaining to this meeting, please contact Diana Brown at 630-516-7700. (Published in the Addison Independent, Bensenville

sin,

power.

who have recourse to

(say

times). Holy Mary, I place this prayer in your hands (say three times). Amen. Say this prayer for three consecutive days and then you must publish and it will be granted to you. I am confident my prayers will be answered. Thank You Mother of God!!!