ExpandThe 23rd annual Tyler Brett Caruso Memorial Concert will be held from 7 to 9 p.m
at Lincoln Park between Fourth and Fifth streets downtown
St. Charles community members are invited to celebrate music
and hope again this year at the 23rd annual Tyler Brett Caruso Memorial Concert
This free annual event celebrates the life of Tyler Caruso, a St. Charles East High School student leader
and community activist who died unexpectedly of cardiac arrest on July 14
Caruso was devoted to the betterment of his community and was one of the original high school representatives on the Downtown St
Charles High School campus was split into East and North High Schools in the early 2000s
Caruso had the idea to bring the community together for an evening of music and friendship
Charles Park District and representatives from both high schools came together to turn his idea into a reality
and have held the event annually for the past 22 years
A scholarship fund was also made in his name
the Tyler Brett Caruso Memorial Scholarship fund has awarded a total of 77 scholarships
the 2025 recipients from both high schools will be introduced on stage
“It is such an honor to help organize this event commemorating Tyler,” St
Charles East High School representative Brianna Menezes said in a news release
“Promoting a deep sense of harmony and connection was a core value of Tyler’s
I hope to adhere to these values and positively impact the scholarship recipients and the greater St
but monetary contributions can be made to benefit the scholarship fund
Charles East High School at 1020 Dunham Road
and should indicate that the contribution is for the Tyler Brett Caruso Memorial Scholarship Fund
“Planning this concert the past three years to honor Tyler’s memory has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life,” St
Charles North High School representative Simran Mani said in the release
“Bringing the community together for this event is an amazing way to recognize the students receiving scholarships and this 23rd anniversary concert will be a great celebration of Tyler’s life and legacy.”
Charles Park District and RJ Recording & Sound in the release for making the concert a successful event year after year
For more information, call 630-513-6200 or visit www.tylerbrettcaruso.com.
Copyright © 2023 Shaw Local News Network
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Charles City and O’Fallon police chiefs and mayors joined other local leaders to cut the ribbon for the completion of phase one of the Center for Advanced Skills Training and Law Enforcement (CASTLE)
“My gratitude to you all,” said Mayor Dan Borgmeyer
“Nothing makes me prouder than the mayor of St
the second phase of construction will start soon with completion in late 2026
Phase two includes an expansion to phase one’s firing range
a one-mile emergency vehicle operations course
a SWAT training area that includes a school bus and fuselage
a drone training area and a training center
That center will house seven classrooms and a virtual training room
there’s not a facility comprised of all these areas in this region,” said Josh Hoeing
“We hope to provide the highest quality of law enforcement training to not only our neighboring municipalities but the entire Midwest region and the country
This center will be a one-stop shop for departments to send their officers.”
Eastern Missouri Police Academy (EMPA) will rehome to CASTLE upon phase two’s completion
The Academy’s board approved the rehoming weeks ago but had to wait for its attorney to sign off on it before they were able to put pen to paper on May 1
Executive Director for Eastern Missouri Police Academy
“But as far as the extra type of training—it’s scattered.”
Louis but attendees have to travel throughout the county for various training functions
“This will be such a tremendous opportunity to for us to get everything in one location
Our recruits will be around cops every single day
We do a lot of continued education as well but just the facilities and the cooperative group coming together is just such a tremendous opportunity for the academy.”
Leasor noted that training is often brought into question in a courtroom and he commends everyone involved for the CASTLE project
“It is so profound that these agencies have recognized
and their communities have recognized the demand for training and how that equates to better officers out on the street being able to interact with the public
being able to be trained to use the technology that’s here today.”
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He was the youngest child of Mae and Harry Sunder
Louis University and served as United States Naval Intelligence Officer with the rank of Lieutenant
he began his business career in purchasing management at Monsanto Co
Janet (Fletcher) and they were married on November 25
volunteered and served in many meaningful ways
he continued his commitment to service through active involvement with St
Louis Blues and Cardinals and he was an avid Mizzou fan
Harry and Jan loved spending time with family
especially with their three granddaughters
and breakfast with a group of retirees – The Procrastinators Club
daughters Gail (Bill) Hunter of Berryville
and Joan (Scott) Boessen and granddaughters
He is proceeded in death by his sisters Laverne Moon
Memorials may be made in Harry's name to St
Peter Catholic Church and American Red Cross
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(left front) Alex Polk and Arlo Cullum on Saturday
Thousands of people lined Illinois Route 64 at Fieldgate Drive in St. Charles on Saturday for an Enough!! Hands Off!! rally against President Donald Trump’s policies and the actions of billionaire Elon Musk.
It would be the fifth public anti-Trump and Musk rally in Kane County since March 8.
Signs and banners proclaimed concerns, such as “Real Americans respect the Constitution,” “Tax the rich,” “Hands off our judges” and simply: “Defend democracy.”
Rosane Menconi and James Norman joined the Hands Off!! rally Saturday, May 3, in St. Charles. (Brenda Schory)
They stood in the bright sunshine and brisk breeze of a cool spring day while a cacophony of car horns beeped and blasted their support as they passed by.
Deatrice Childs of Aurora held a sign stating, “We stand for your liberty, our rights.”
“I am here to express my concern with what’s happening with our country,” Child said.
Ed , who would not give his last name, carried a sign stating simply, “No Kings.”
“I am upset because I feel like the president is ruling by executive orders – which aren’t even laws – but they’re being accepted as such,” Ed said. “The cabinet meeting that they broadcasted this week looked like an episode of ‘The Apprentice.’ They all lined up to sing his praises. I feel like people aren’t seeing what’s happening, so people have to get out and mobilize.”
“The Apprentice” was a reality TV series starring Donald Trump from 2004 to 2017.
Ed criticized Congress, as well, for not countering bad legislation.
“Yesterday, the House Republicans refused to comment against an amendment on a bill that would allow them to deport U.S. citizens,” Ed said. “They literally just sat there, silently. It’s crazy.”
Ed said his brother and sister both had Huntington’s disease, lived in nursing homes and relied on government assistance for their survival until they died.
Thousands lined the street Saturday, May 3 in St. Charles for a Hands Off!! rally to protest President Donsld Trump and Elon Musk. (Brenda Schory)
“That social safety net is so important and it’s being ripped away, and I’m afraid for the world my kids are going to grow up in, God forbid, they need help,” Ed said.
Rosane Menconi and James Norman of West Chicago stood together with their sign, proclaiming “Social Security paid in for 57 years!!”
“We’re protesting the current administration and all the rules and things that they’ve done without ... going through proper channels,” Menconi said. “They’ve ignored majority rule by the Supreme Court to bring the guy home and they ... figure we’re just going to go along with it.”
“The guy” she was referring to is Kilmar Ábrego García, who was deported from Maryland to El Salvador in March. Judges, including all nine members of the U.S. Supreme Court, ruled that this was done in error, and that Trump’s team should help “facilitate” his return.
Children also protested, including St. Charles residents Amber Diepenbrock and Max Cullom, 13; Q Eddy, 14; Brynn Hockey, a third grader at Fearn Elementary School in North Aurora; and Alex Polk and Arlo Cullom, second graders at Munhall Elementary School in St. Charles.
“I’m here because something needs to be said,” Amber said. “It’s not OK to just stay quiet about this. This is not OK.”
Max and Q said they were standing up for the LGBTQ community.
“And I’m also here because I believe that our democracy is under fire directly by Trump and Elon Musk,” Q said. “And I believe that something has to be done about it.”
May rallygoers chanted, “Hey hey, ho ho, Trump and Musk have got to go.”
Perhaps as a sign of protests to come, the rallygoers also sang along with “We Shall Not Be Moved,” a hymn that became an anthem for Civil Rights and labor, as it played from a portable speaker.
“We shall not, we shall not be moved,” they sang. “We shall not, we shall not be moved. Just like a tree that’s planted by the water, we shall not be moved.”
Rally organizers were We Can Lead Change Fox Valley, Indivisible Fox Valley Rising, Fox Valley Activists, Kane County, Batavia and St. Charles townships, and Western Kane Democrats.
Charles City is starting off May by combatting mosquitoes. The city released a comical social media post remindeding the public that they would begin fogging the insects on May 1 at 7 p.m
crews spray an invisible pesticide city-wide but will pause the sprayer as a courtesy if they spot walkers
The motor continues to run even without dispensing the chemical
To minimize potential environmental impact
the city uses a thimble full per acre of ground
Charles says the pesticide is safe for humans and all animals
The pesticide targets mosquito larvae and incapacitates adult mosquitoes from flying which disrupts the bug’s breeding cycle
Mosquitoes can develop in any standing standing water that is present for more than five days
For more information, visit the city’s website on mosquito control operations or contact the Department of Public Works at (636) 949-3363
Senior left-hander Joey Arend pitched 5 2/3 innings of 1-run ball before sophomore Andrew Evans came on to close the door, recording the game-ending strikeout with the tying run on second base during the Saints’ 3-2 DuKane Conference victory at Northwestern Medicine Field in Geneva.
The Saints (11-9, 7-3) came into the game reeling after watching an 8-2 lead disappear in the seventh inning against Lake Park but regrouped at a most opportune time Friday night.
“It was a big part of our practice this week,” said Arend, who allowed a pair of hits while walking 3 and striking out 8 during an impressive 100-pitch effort. “After the loss to Lake Park, we went to practice with the mentality that we were going to come out here and get a win.
“That mentality put us in a good spot to get a win tonight.”
Arend and North Stars junior right-hander Keaton Reinke (5 1/3IP, 6 Ks) were locked in a pitchers’ duel throughout, as the game remained scoreless through 5 innings.
That changed in the sixth when the Saints finally broke through with a 3-spot.
After a 1-out single by Andrew Zolna (3 for 4), Evans reached on a bunt single before junior James Feigleson lined an RBI single to center — and the Saints added another run on the play following a throw to second base.
“I think I was ahead in the count, and I was expecting fastball,” said Feigleson.
Sophomore Kyle LaRose drove in the third run of the inning on a fielder’s choice grounder.
The North Stars (9-12, 4-6) chased Arend in the sixth when Ty Heimbuch reached on a 2-out walk, took second on a wild pitch, and scored when Mason Netcel’s fly ball to left field was lost in the lights for an RBI double.
In the seventh, the North Stars kept battling, as Reinke reached on an infield single, stole second, and scored when Ben Auer reached on an infield error.
“I’m proud of the fight,” said North Stars coach Todd Genke, whose team lost its fourth straight game. “We’re a little snakebit right now. We had multiple chances to score runs there.”
The North Stars wasted a golden opportunity in the fourth when a misplayed ball in left turned into a leadoff double — but wound up as an out at third following Feigelson’s relay throw to third baseman Evans.
“We got thrown out at third — that was a big play,” said Genke. “When the ball gets to the fence in this place, you have to get to third base on that.”
“That was a huge first out,” said Feigleson. “It changed the whole momentum of the game.”
The win snapped East’s 3-gane losing streak against the North Stars.
“That was fun,” said Saints coach Derek Sutor. “Going up against Keaton (Reinke), we understood that it was going to be battle — their stud against ours.
“Joey (Arend) has been coming around for us — pitching how he can. Any time he’s on, he’s hard to beat.”
The two teams will be back at it Saturday morning at St. Charles North.
ExpandPaul Bocska (Sandy Bressner – sbressner@sha)
This is part of the warning judges give defendants: if they don’t show up for trial, they can be tried “in absentia,” Latin for “in the absence of.”
That is what happened to Paul Bocska, a St. Charles driving instructor, who didn’t show up for his trial, according to a news release from the Kane County State’s Attorney’s Office.
And on Tuesday, a jury found Bocska, 58, a driving instructor for his own company, Drive Now in St. Charles, guilty of four counts of criminal sexual assault and 12 counts of aggravated criminal sexual abuse, according to the release.
Judge David Kliment issued an arrest warrant for Bocska when he failed to show up for his trial on April 17.
Anyone with information as to Bocska’s whereabouts is asked to call St. Charles police at 630-377-4435 or the Kane County State’s Attorney’s Office at 630-232-3500.
Bocska’s attorney, Liam Dixon, said he has done trials in absentia before, when clients just didn’t show up.
“We did what we could and we respect the jury’s decision,” Dixon said. “We had a defense and we presented that. We tried to point out all the inconsistencies in the state’s case, but not enough to overcome the fact that Mr. Bocska was not there at the trial.”
As to why his client did not come to his own trial, Dixon said Bocska had sent him message a week prior regarding his having some medical issues.
“But I had no documentation to present to the court,” Dixon said.
Assistant State’s Attorneys Matthew Rodgers and Amanda Busljeta said in court that on multiple occasions in April and May of 2021, Bocska sexually abused the victim, according to the release.
They knew each other because Bocska had been hired as a driving instructor, according to the release.
“The courage of this victim stands in stark contrast to the cowardice of Mr. Bocska,” Rodgers said in the release.
“My thanks to the victim and family, as well as Detectives Murawski and Schuessler of the St. Charles Police Department, ASA Amanda Busljeta, and victim advocate Sheila Gray,” Rodgers said in the release. “I’m encouraging anyone with information about Bocska to come forward so that we he can ensure Bocska is taken into custody and held accountable for these horrendous crimes.”
Bocska had posted $5,000 bail, or 10% of the $50,000 bond that was set.
A sentencing hearing for Bocska is scheduled for June 4.
The most serious of his felony convictions are eight Class 1 felonies – the four counts of criminal sexual assault and four counts of aggravated criminal sexual abuse – punishable by four to 15 years in prison and fines up to $25,000.
The other eight counts of aggravated criminal sexual abuse.
“I will be there at the sentencing,” Dixon said. “We will present and be filing a motion for a new trial.”
ExpandHector Briseno (Sandy Bressner – sbressner@sha)
At the fourth continuance this year for the fifth accused sex trafficker arrested in a July 2023 sweep in St. Charles
the judge warned it would be his last continuance
appeared briefly before Circuit Judge David Kliment
a Spanish language interpreter and Assistant State’s Attorney Christine Bayer
on one count of involuntary servitude with threat of physical harm
one count of trafficking in persons for labor
four counts of involuntary servitude with physical restraint
six counts of involuntary servitude with the threat of financial harm and four counts of promoting prostitution for profit
Lopez has indicated to me he has some evidence or discovery he wishes to give to me [that he thinks] is going to be perhaps a significant impact on the course of this case,” Bayer said
I should have information by then and be able to analyze it.”
but cautioned that this was the end of the line for continuances
I’m going to set this matter for trial,” Kliment said
The other four arrested in the sweep have all pleaded guilty to one count of felony trafficking in persons in exchange for the other charges not being prosecuted
Each of Briseno’s four appearances this year were scheduled for a plea or setting a date for a trial
Lopez filed court papers waiving a jury trial for Briseno and instead seeking a bench trial before the judge
In the process of the arrests, police said they rescued seven women, all from South American, ranging in age from their early 20s to early 30s.
Trafficking in persons is a Class 1 felony, punishable by four to 15 years in prison or up to 48 months of probation.
The most serious charge they all faced was a Class X involuntary servitude with the threat of physical harm, punishable by six to 30 years in prison if convicted.
Charles list of historic buildings as the Barry House
The home was purchased by the Baker Memorial United Methodist Church in St
Charles in 1993 and the church is now planning to demolish the building to construct parking lots
Barry in the mid 1800s and Abraham Lincoln is believed to have stayed in the home while visiting Barry
Due to the owners recent attempts to demolish the home, Landmarks Illinois ranked the Barry House as the eighth most endangered endangered historic places in the state in their 2025 top-10 list
Other landmarks on the list include the JJ Walser Home in Chicago
Louis and the Fordon Horse Barn in Oak Brook
Baker Memorial United Mothodist Church purchased the house in 1993 and it has been vacant since at least 2017
The church has been petitioning the city to allow for demolition of the Barry House
in order to construct a parking lot on the site
Site map for the Baker Memorial United Methodist Church in St
Charles and adjacent buildings on Cedar Avenue planned to be demolished
While the Barry House has not been given a landmark designation
it is located in the city’s historic district and has been classified as a contributing structure to the city’s history
the church has been attempting to obtain a Certificate of Appropriateness from the city in order to demolish the building
Baker Memorial pastor David Aslesen said on multiple occasions that the Barry House has become a financial burden for the church
He said the home’s condition has deteriorated to the point that it is uninsurable and has been the target of break-ins
A 2017 architectural survey of the Barry House found that the structure was in remarkable condition and restoration would require only cosmetic work
In October, Historic Preservation Commission members denied the church’s request for a Certificate of Appropriateness
citing the church’s failure to maintain the property and lack of due diligence in trying to sell it
“I can’t approve a demolition by neglect,” History Preservation Commission Chairman Kim Malay said before the commission voted unanimously to deny the request
Charles North’s Wylder Smith in the 100-meter dash during the Rolling Meadows boys track meet on Friday
Highland Park’s Shamar Wilson finished first with a time of 11.08
(Joe Lewnard/jlewnard@dailyherald/Joe Lewnard/jlewnard@dailyherald)
ROLLING MEADOWS – The Rolling Meadows Mustang Classic was going to be a good test for area boys track and field teams to see where they stand with about a month to go in the 2025 season
When all was said and done, St. Charles North captured the championship of the eight-team meet with 140.5 points. Huntley and Warren (103 points) tied for second followed by Fremd (96 points) in fourth, and the host Mustangs (93 points) in fifth.
St. Charles North’s 4x800 squad of Logan Sundquist, Evan Reck, Brian Santos, and Carson Urry won in 8:24.77. The North Stars also got a first from Jack Shannon (1.85 meters) in the high jump, Nathan McLoughlin (4.88 meters) in the pole vault, and Cooper Kowalczyk (15.88 meters) in the shot put.
St. Charles North’s 4x200 unit of Josh Wilkerson, Jaden Tran, Jakub Dzioban, and Brandon Pregler (1:34.79) also placed first. The North Stars’ Christian Enger (2:01.49) and Matt Russell went 1-2 in the 800-meter run.
“We love this meet, and as we get closer to the championship season we start to put some stuff together,” said St. Charles North coach Kevin Harrington as the final third of the meet was under some steady rain. “The fact that we’re winning a lot is interesting to me, and we’ve got over 20 kids who are meeting our exceeding our standards.”
Huntley’s Tommy Nitz continued to shine with a first-place time of 9:05.33 in the 3,200-meter run. The Red Raiders’ 4x100 relay team of UW-Milwaukee-bound Vinny Costa (second in 100), Dominic Giuseffi (second in 200), Jordan Oruche, and Noah Van De Voorde placed first in 42.59 seconds. Huntley’s Grant Tucker (46.81 meters) edged Rolling Meadows’ Luis Carrillo (46.44 meters) for the discus title.
“Grant Tucker had a new PR in the discus and he was excited because that moved him up to No. 8 on our all-time list at Huntley and we’ve had a pretty good run of discus throwers,” said Huntley coach Chris Maxedon. “All in all we had some good performances, and we definitely had some kids who stepped up and performed today so I’m really pleased with where we’re at.”
Warren won the 4x200 in 1:30.57 behind the team of John DeLaPaz, Jayden Johnson, Nathaniel Welch, and Weston Locke. The Blue Devils’ Jackson Wiklund (15.39 seconds) won the 110-meter hurdles.
“The effort of the team overall has been pretty spectacular, and I’m really happy with how they’ve come together,” said Warren coach Dave Wilson. “Our 4x200 is within a second or two of meeting the state qualifying time, and we’re kind of peaking at the right time.”
Buffalo Grove sophomore Taras Kilchitskyi (7.09 meters) soared to first place in the long jump while Fremd state qualifier Oluwadamilare Hassan (14.18 meters) won the triple jump.
Rolling Meadows’ Jeff McMillen (52.07 seconds) was the 400-meter champion while teammate Gunnar Woetzel (40.66 seconds) won the 300 hurdles. Woetzel, McMillen, Auren Whiting, and Christian Bradley won the 4x400 in 3:29.88.
“He (Hassan) went to state last year (in triple jump), and he had a big PR tonight by about a foot,” said Fremd coach Jeff Williams. “As of tonight he is ranked third in the state, and he has experience (downstate) which helps a lot.”
https://www.dailyherald.com/20250502/boys-track-and-field/boys-track-and-field-st-charles-north-races-away-with-rolling-meadows-crown/
It’s a Grand Re-Opening party – with free samples, fuel discounts, the Budweiser Clydesdales on-site, and Lern will be giving away a pair of Pointfest tickets every 15 minutes while she’s there including a pair of Grand Prize PIT Tickets
It’s a Pointfest Ticketblast on Friday from 2p-4p with Lern at the Grand Re-Opening of the Rocket Convenience Store in St
Charles and an Oak Brook barn are among the historic places in Illinois considered most at risk by a preservation group
Landmarks Illinois released its 2025 Most Endangered Historic Places in Illinois list on Thursday
The nonprofit organization’s list includes the Judge William D
Charles and the Fordon Horse Barn in Oak Brook
Other sites that made this year’s list include the W.A
Frank Lloyd Wright’s 1903 JJ Walser House in Chicago
“This year’s Most Endangered list is wide-ranging
not only in the kinds of troubling threats these places face
geographical locations and building types,” Bonnie McDonald
Landmarks Illinois launched its Most Endangered program in 1995 to support advocacy and eventual preservation of the properties it annually lists
is a Greek Revival built in 1844 by Judge William D
the first president of the Kane County Bar Association
plans to demolish the house to create space for a parking lot
In October 2024, the church petitioned St. Charles’ Historic Preservation Commission for a certificate of appropriateness to tear down the house
the commission has recommended denying the request
The church has filed an appeal to the city’s Planning and Development Committee
could be returned to active use as a residence or for retail space
“The Judge Barry House is a rare ‘story house,’ reflecting nearly two centuries of Illinois and national history,” Steve Gibson
the circa-1930 Fordon Horse Barn is in Saddle Brook Park within the Saddle Brook community
bought the barn in 1941 to house his ponies
the Saddle Brook Development Company deeded the barn and surrounding parkland to the Oak Brook Park District
the park district sought to raze the structure by the end of April
the demolition was delayed because of opposition from residents
president of the Oak Brook Historical Society
said the Fordon Barn “represents a window to the past … from a time when farms and pastoral settings were the norm.”
she cited the impact of Oak Brook’s founder
who made the Oak Brook Polo Club “the cornerstone of American polo culture.”
“It is worth saving and preserving a place where American history happened,” Arts said
Charles North sophomore Julia Rodney found herself on the sidelines in a walking boot
After spending a good portion of the indoor track and field season dealing with stress reactions in both her shins
Rodney was a little nervous heading into the Kane County meet about being able to get back to the form that helped her earn All-State honors as a freshman
But after winning the 4x800-meter relay and 1,600 races
“This is exactly what I needed to give me the confidence that I needed,” Rodney said
“Even though I was training in the offseason
it’s just been really hard not running as much
But now I feel a lot more confident in my abilities.”
Rodney’s wins were two of five that the North Stars would accumulate in the meet
as they scored 132.5 points to take a commanding victory in the Kane County meet at East Aurora
these athletes set goals for themselves to let them have a say in what they want to do and so they’re more confident about it,” North Stars coach Anthony Enright said
and it led to a lot of standout performances
But they’re also so insatiable and want to continue to improve.”
Rodney’s first win of the day came as a part of the 4x800 relay team
Elise Pimsner and Reese Thomas running a 9:29.65
the fifth-fastest time in Illinois so far this season
“And the crazy thing about it is that we have other options
so that may not even be our final team at state,” Rodney said
“I feel like we have a lot of depth in the 4x800 still
pulling out the deciding move in the final 400 meters to finish in 5:08.21
Also getting two wins on the night for the North Stars was sophomore Alexzandria Richardson
who won both the 100 (12.49) and the 200 (26.04)
“If you look at her results from last year to now
“The work that she’s done with our assistant coaches has transformed her and changed her life where she’s always the one being chased.”
Senior Tosin Oshin had the North Stars’ fifth victory of the night
winning the shot put with a toss of 11.76 meters (38 feet
Batavia ended up taking second as a team with 94.5 points
It marked the first time the two teams faced off in full strength since the indoor DuKane Conference championships
“It’s always fun and exciting facing them,” Bulldogs coach Justin Allison said
But I think it makes conferences a much more exciting event
very pleased with where we’re at right now.”
Both of the Bulldogs’ wins on the day came in field events
Sophomore Abby Wirth won the triple jump with a leap of 11.53 meters (37-10)
which is the seventh-best mark in the state
Macee Olson also took a win in the pole vault
with the sophomore clearing 3.51 meters (11-6) to share the title with Aurora Central Catholic’s Molly Russelburg
Allison commended both of them for not only winning their events but also for coming out and racing on the track afterwards
with both athletes helping lead the 4x400 team to a second-place finish
“We talk about how you’ve got to be a sprinter first in a lot of those events
“And we told them that part of their success in those events is their sprinting abilities
I’m really happy with their performances all the way around.”
Finishing close behind Batavia for the bronze was Geneva with 93 points
Sophomore Alyssa Flotte had both of the Vikings’ wins on the day in the 100 hurdles (15.71) and the 300 hurdles (46.05)
She also anchored the 4x100 relay team to a school-record 49.08 for second place
“I just wanted to get those extra points for my team
And I’m glad I got a personal record out of it.”
63 points) finished with the second-most wins on the meet with three
Freshman Siri Forsell won the long jump with a leap of 5.16 meters while the 4x200 (1:43.97) and the 4x400 (4:01.01) relay teams both took gold on the track
Burlington Central rounded out the top half of the team standings with 59 points for sixth
Emilie Anderson repeated as the discus champion in the meet
Hampshire finished right behind the Rockets with 56 points for seventh
Alyssa Garcia took the gold in the 400 in 59.03
Aurora Central Catholic took eighth in the meet with 39 points
Cecilia Hilby also had a gold medal at the meet
winning the 800 with a lead at the line in 2:16.69
Katie Kostro had the only win at the meet for Rosary (12th
winning the high jump after clearing 1.69 meters (5-6)
Charles North's bench celebrates during a game against Lake Park on Wednesday
ST. CHARLES — St. Charles North coach Tom Poulin knew that his team could find another gear.
Despite the North Stars’ 11-4 record heading into Wednesday’s matchup against Lake Park, Poulin felt that while it was an impressive slate, the team had barely begun to scratch the surface of their potential as the season begins to shift into the second half of play.
But against a tough team and DuKane Conference opponent like the Lancers, North showed they had plenty more to give.
Led by senior Mack Patterson and sophomore Julianna Kouba, the North Stars put up three runs in the fifth inning and four runs in the sixth to help secure a 9-1 victory over the Lancers.
“This was just a glimpse of what we can do offensively,” North Stars coach Tom Poulin said. “You’re not going to do that to Lake Park very often. But we were able to control at-bats and square some balls up against one of the top teams of the state.”
St. Charles North's Mackenzie Patterson makes a catch in left field during a game against Lake Park on Wednesday, April 30, 2025 in St. Charles. (Sandy Bressner)
Leading the charge in the game for North was Patterson, a Loyola-Chicago commit who went 4 for 4 in the game and drove in three runs.
“She is just so steady and such a student of the game,” Poulin said. “She’s going to be all over these at-bats the same way she would be if she went 0 for 4. She just keeps working and grinding it out and has a high softball IQ and will keep getting better from it.”
Patterson got the offense going for the North Stars (12-4, 4-2 DuKane Conference) early on in the contest, slapping an RBI double in her first at-bat to make give North the early advantage. Two batters later, she would make it 2-0 after scoring on a bunt single from junior Abby Zawadski.
“These past four years, I’ve been trying to be a leader,” Patterson said. “And now that I’m a senior, I feel like I’m finally able to just go out, contribute on my part, and then it gets the momentum going and everybody follows. And once that gets going, it helps everyone out.”
The senior would get the momentum going again in the fifth inning with an RBI single, and would continue it in the sixth, following a two-run double from senior Ivy Gleason with another run-scoring base hit.
“It was awesome to see all of our hard work just come alive,” Patterson said. “Everyone was helping each other out and picking each other up. And it just felt so nice to see everything start to fall in place.”
St. Charles North's Julianna Kouba (center) celebrates her home run during a game against Lake Park on Wednesday, April 30, 2025 in St. Charles. (Sandy Bressner)
Kouba also finished the day with three RBIs for the North Stars. The sophomore had a two-run home run in the fifth inning and had a sacrifice fly in the sixth, marking her fifth consecutive game with multiple RBIs.
“Kouba is just on fire,” Poulin said. “She’s as good of a hitter as you’ll see, and we’re just going to let her keep hitting the ball the way she has been.”
The Lancers (12-4, 3-2) had some chances to get runs on the board over the final two innings, getting multiple runners on base in those innings, but couldn’t get the key hit to push more runs across.
Lake Park's Ariana O'Connell celebrates her home run during a game against St. Charles North on Wednesday, April 30, 2025 in St. Charles. (Sandy Bressner)
“It’s always a dog fight when we play them, and I love playing against them,” Lancers coach Lynsey Gunnells said. “But the last couple of games, we’ve been struggling to get that key hit. We also missed getting some bunts down. So little things like that can make a big difference when you play a great team like St. Charles North.
Senior Ari O’Connell drove in the Lancers only run on the day with a solo home run to right field in the third inning. The Illinois-Chicago commit had three of the team’s six hits on the day, adding a double and a single.
“She’s having a great senior year for us,” Gunnells said. “She’s at eight home runs for us already and she’s a great leadoff hitter for us. She’s just really stepping up for us, and it’s good to see.”
celebrates after hitting a homer against Destrehan in LaPlace on Wednesday
St. Charles lost a heartbreaking series opener in extra innings Thursday against E.D
White and was unable to bounce back Friday in LaPlace
White delivered early in the second game of a Division II select best-of three quarterfinals series with five runs in the bottom of the first inning
Charles scored one run in the top of fifth inning on a bases-loaded balk
but that was all they managed in a 5-1 season-ending loss
White to two runs in the bottom of the first
Charles senior third baseman Forrier Fabre resulted in a bases- loaded opportunity for E.D
Zeringue cleared the bases with an RBI double to left-center
“(The first inning) was a combination of some of our mistakes
We made a mistake that led to three extra runs
It would’ve been nice to have had it be 2-0 instead of 5-0.”
White scored first after junior Grant Barbera delivered an RBI single to center that score senior Jax Triche
Senior Dylan Robichaux then recorded a one-out single to left field that drove in junior Evan Arcement
Zeringue’s bases-clearing double occurred with two outs
our guys weren’t satisfied with their at-bats,” E.D
“I thought they came today with a mission to score first
Senior right-hander Luke Dewhirst started for St
Sophomore Landree LeBlanc entered the game for Dewhirst and threw 2⅓ scoreless innings
White left-handed pitchers Owen Blanchard and Claude Remondet held St
The Comets had runners on base in the fifth and sixth innings but stranded a pair both times
Senior Logan Klibert scored on a fifth-inning balk
last season's Division III select state runner-up
“It’s been a long time before our season was ended before the state championship,” Stein said
I hope the guys that are returning can learn from (this year)
Sometimes I think we’ve gotten bored with winning
We’ve just got to get back to work as a program.”
White (21-18) advances to the Division II select semifinals and will face the winner of No
Email Spencer Urquhart at surquhart@theadvocate.com
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Charles North's Julianna Kouba (Photo Provided By St
School: St. Charles North, sophomore
What she did: Across five wins on the week for the North Stars, Kouba went 10 for 16 (.625 average) at the plate with two doubles, a home run and nine RBIs.
Kouba was voted the Kane County Chronicle Athlete of the Week in an online vote.
Here is her Q&A with sports reporter Joel Boenitz.
How do you feel you performed at the plate?
Kouba: I feel that my bat head has started to come alive again. After the first few at-bats in my season, I feel like I’ve found even more confidence in myself to have the outputs that I need for my team. Me and my dad always talk about just being confident, having fun. And I feel like that’s really showing because I just go up there with the mentality to just hit the ball.
Nine of your hits came in the final three games of the week. What did you do differently from the beginning?
Kouba: I was just thinking about more of the team, of what they needed in that exact moment, more than myself. I feel like that’s the mentality I always have, but it really came into action because I knew where I needed to place the ball in certain situations, and it really just helped me boost my ego and what I needed to do in that exact moment. And my teammates were supporting me the entire way.
Your other hit on the week was a home run. How did it feel to hit your first of the season?
Kouba: As I was running the bases, I was just so happy. And everybody was hearing me shouting for myself and it just really made me feel like everything is just set in. It made me realize that softball season actually started and we’re running on the road and we’re going so fast. And that I have everybody behind me cheering for me. It just really makes me feel what I need to feel for the game. It really makes me realize how much I love it.
You’re coming off a state championship from last season. How do you feel the team has done so far with that title?
Kouba: The pressure is definitely still there on the team, and sometimes it’s a little much for us. But we have figured out ways to cope with that, and that definitely helps us when we’re playing. Having that experience will definitely set me up for these next three years, but we’re hitting our valleys and our mountains. It really will push us to be our best once the tournament comes around.
Your walk-up song is “Low” by Flo Rida. How did that come to be?
Kouba: I always ask my grandparents for a song to make sure they’ll know it too if they come to a game. And my grandma gave me like the idea of a lot of the older songs and I was like, ‘Oh, I feel like they’ll know the song.’
Kouba: Whenever I go into a dugout, the first thing I do is always check the water. I only like water before games, so I’ve got to test if it’s good. And then every time before I go up to bat, I always see my mom in the stands right behind home plate and we’ll always give each other a little smile back and forth. Whenever we do that, somehow I’ve always hit the ball.
sons Brian William (Christina) and Patrick Ross Wehmeier
He was preceded in death by his mother Melba Rose
After graduating from the University of Missouri with a degree in Mechanical Engineering
He was employed as an engineering manager at both Hussmann and Emerson Corporations
Bill was an active member in the Commemorative Air Force
and Trinity Lutheran Church where he had served as an usher
school board member and on the endowment committee
Hayden Sujack had her second multi-home run game of the week and drove in three runs to help the Saints (11-10, 2-3 DuKane) to a big win over the Vikings (6-12, 0-5).
Caleigh Higgins also went yard in the contest and drove in two runs, while Addison Wolf added three hits in the contest. Saints pitcher Kyli Dunn allowed just one hit over five innings, which came from the Vikings’ Caroline Winsininski.
Isabelle Reed allowed just one run and one hit while striking out six over 6⅓ innings to help the Rockets (10-9, 8-3 Fox Valley) take down the Chargers while surpassing their conference win total from last season.
Antonina Garcia led the offense with two hits and two RBIs. Mia Lindquist had three hits in the contest, while Mei Shirokawa recorded two hits, including a double.
Ellie Peck had a two-run home run in the first inning and also had eight strikeouts in the circle to help the Knights (14-8, 1-4 Interstate 8) snap their three-game losing streak. Angelina Campise had the team’s only other RBI in the contest.
Amira Mendoza had a three-run home run, while Grace Sartain recorded three hits that tied the game at 6-6, but the Tigers put up four runs in the sixth inning to beat the Bulldogs (4-12, 0-4 DuKane).
Will Viebrock and Zane Pollack each had three hits and drove in two runs, while Bennek Braden finished with three RBIs to help the Rockets (11-9, 4-6 Fox Valley) to the conference victory.
Chase Powrozek got the win on the mound, allowing three hits and two runs (zero earned) and striking out seven over six innings.
Evan Ross allowed just two hits and two runs (zero earned) while striking out eight as the Knights (14-5, 5-2 Interstate 8) fell to the Spartans.
Brady Alstott, Antonio Villanueva and Carter Grabowski each had two hits to lead the offense.
Musterman; cherished daughter of the late Ronald and Marian (nee Mudd) Myers; devoted mother of Mark (Barbara (nee Cuellar) ) Musterman
Susan (Ben) Reiling and Mary (Kelly) Sulwer; loving grandmother of Kelly (David) Modny
Cole Sulwer and Luke Sulwer; treasured great-grandmother of Amelia
Carter and Nora; dear sister of Carol (the late Gene) Shea
Barbara was a member of the Ladies Sodality at St
She took great pride in running the alter ladies and she received great joy out of performing this service at the church
but most of all she loved spending time with her children and grandchildren
Barbara was dearly loved and will be greatly missed by all who knew her
Memorials may be made in Barbara's name to American Cancer Society or St. Peter Catholic Church
Charles North’s Addyson Priess go after the ball during a Tri-Cities Soccer Night game on Tuesday
ST. CHARLES – Round 2 of the crosstown rivalry between St. Charles North and St. Charles East was a bit different from the initial rendition.
After the first matchup ended in a 3-0 victory for the Saints, the North Stars pushed the pace with an early goal, while the Saints responded with a goal late in the second half to force a 1-1 tie in the second game of Tri-Cities Night.
“In a game where you have the lead early, you’d like to come away with a win,” North Stars coach Brian Harks said. “But the amount of growth that we’ve showed over the season from the last time we played them to this game, I thought it was spectacular. Every player on the field worked their butts off.”
St. Charles North’s Kaitlyn Nudera (center) celebrates her goal during a Tri-Cities Soccer Night game against St. Charles East on Tuesday, April 29, 2025, in St. Charles. (Sandy Bressner)
The North Stars (5-4-3, 1-1-2) controlled the ball for the majority of the first half and proved it with an early goal after junior Kaitlyn Nudera snuck past the Saints’ defenders and placed the ball into the back of the net just nine minutes into the contest.
“Obviously it was an amazing feeling,” said Nudera, whose goal was her first of the season. “But what made it so special was how our team went so hard off the bat to make that happen. If we didn’t fight that hard in the beginning, it would have never happened.”
The early goal was one of a few changes the team had made since their first bout with the Saints back on March 29. The North Stars also switched up their field formation in order to better contain Saints freshman Mya Leon, who scored a hat trick in the last match, by putting sophomore Aubri Magana on her the entire way.
“Aubri played excellent defense and did her job perfectly,” Harks said. “St. Charles East is loaded up top and finds the net regularly, but our defensive line really played well supporting one another and helping each other out.”
St. Charles North’s Aubri Magana (left) and St. Charles East's Mya Leon go after the ball during a Tri-Cities Soccer Night game on Tuesday, April 29, 2025, in St. Charles. (Sandy Bressner)
The game plan worked all the way up to the 65th minute of the game, when Leon managed to worm her way through the North Stars defenders and loft a ball over the goalkeeper’s head and into the net to make it 1-1.
“When I saw the ball, I knew I just had to score,” said Leon, who now has 30 goals on the season for the Saints. “I saw the opportunity, and I took it, and it felt amazing when I did it.”
The Saints (14-2-2, 2-0-1) struggled out of the gate to respond to the North Stars’ changes on the pitch. But coach Vince DiNuzzo said while it’s not the result he wanted, the match showed the team’s ability to respond while behind.
“We’re not going to make excuses for ourselves, we have to be better than what we did in that first half,” DiNuzzo said. “But they responded well in that second half, and we played much better. I just wish there were a couple more minutes on the clock, because we definitely had some momentum at the end.”
by NICOLE MENNER
(WJAR) — The Mount Saint Charles 15O hockey team spent last weekend winning a national title
"I blacked out," said Cumberland's Brody Berard
started screaming and going crazy with the guys
Greatest feeling I've ever had."
"I was so happy for the kids," said Mounties U15 coach Jim Creamer
"They had been one or two in the country all year long so to stick with it and get to the finals
The team opened the tournament in Wisconsin with a loss
making every game that followed a must win
"It was kind of an eye opening experience for us," Berard said
Mounties ripped off four straight wins to reach the championship
where they were met with even more adversity
"We were up 4-1 so I think everybody feels pretty good about that
but it slowly slipped away," explained Creamer
"Big players do big things in big moments," Berard said
"When that overtime came ,we had the edge."
Maksim Yakub won it for Mount Saint Charles
"It was amazing," said Cumberland's Grady Rowley
The national championship marked back-to-back for many Mounties players
who won the 14-under national title last season
It marked the third national title in Mount Saint Charles hockey history
"You would never expect to win it in general but to go back-to-back is something really special," Rowley said
"Winning it once is an accomplishment
Winning it twice is pretty impressive," Creamer said
It's an achievement the players will never forget as they leave their mark on the legendary program
"You come to Mount to win national titles and develop as a player," Berard said
"Our age group and team the past two years really set the standard for Mount as a program."
The Des Allemands Carnival Krewe Committee will host the seventh annual Blessing of the Fleet under the Highway 90 bridge in Bayou Des Allemands on Saturday
Michael the Archangel Church will bless each vessel and helpers will pass out prayer cards
Boats will line up from Mud Lake and pass under the Highway 90 bridge for their blessing
All donations will go toward next year’s boat blessings.
and any watercraft or vessel can receive a blessing
Charles Parish Sheriff’s Office will patrol the waters for safety
and all boaters should adhere to boater safety guidelines
a member of the Des Allemands Carnival Krewe Committee
said around 180 vessels received a blessing in previous years
“We hope to see a great turnout again this year,” she said
“Being able to keep the boat blessing going is a blessing
so we hopefully can keep it alive for years to come.”
The Blessing of the Fleet began in 2018 to bless Bayou Des Allemands and boat owners who wanted to receive a blessing for their vessel
“Des Allemands has always been a fishing community and the bayou itself is an important way of life here,” Petit said
“It’s also important to remember how blessed we are to be able to enjoy our waterways and be thankful for everyone’s safety when out on the water.”
The Des Allemands Carnival Krewe Committee took over the Blessing of the Fleet in 2022 after Hurricane Ida damaged St
John the Baptist Catholic Church to form St
Michael the Archangel Catholic Church in Paradis because of financial pressures
a majority of the [carnival krewe] committee members were parishioners of St
Gertrude and on the boat blessing committee
so it was an easy transition for us,” Petit said
“We are always hoping to get an opportunity to bring those things back in the future,” Petit said
“Hurricane Ida took away a lot from this community
including the church and all the events it hosted
we are happy to just be able to arrange the blessing and keep this event going.”
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Animal Shelter’s run club enters 10th year
As Hahnville prepares to host the District 8-5A championship meet on Wednesday, the Tigers head in on a wave of momentum after sweeping the Ulysses Frontha Relays. […]
Real Estate Transactions 5-1-2025 […]
In a unanimous vote Monday, April 21, the parish council approved changes to the language of an ordinance outlining the definition of “derelict” vehicles. […]
it's still unclear exactly when that will be
director of community development for the city of St
said the city has issued a "punch list" of items during a final inspection that must not be completed before a building permit project is considered complete
the city can issue an occupancy permit to allow the building to be occupied
the store would have the ability to begin stocking the store and bringing in employees," Colby said
The store is still planned to open in the spring
but a specific opening date has not been announced
Meanwhile, hiring has gotten underway for a variety of positions at the store. Those interested in working for Whole Foods can apply here.
a regional development commercial specializing in grocery anchors
acquired the property in 2023 and entered into a lease agreement with Whole Foods Market
parking lots around the store were reconstructed for future use by Whole Foods
including the city-owned parking lot located at the southwest corner of Illinois and First Streets
The sidewalks and landscaping around the parking lots were updated to add angled street parking
the city approved an incentive agreement to reimburse the developer for the cost of the parking lot and street/sidewalk improvements
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ExpandArtists renderings of the intersection of the Fox River Trail and Illinois Avenue
which identified the crossing as a high-priority location for improvement
Illinois Avenue in downtown St. Charles could be easier to cross later this year
as the city gets ready to approve construction contracts for a new crosswalk near the river
The 2023 St. Charles Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan identified the intersection of the Fox River Trail and Illinois Avenue
as a high-priority location for improvement because it is in a key location for access between the riverwalk and downtown businesses
the City completed designs and issued request for proposal for the crosswalk and a road diet on Illinois Avenue that includes a pedestrian refuge island and new dedicated bike lanes
Charles Business Services Committee members reviewed a contract with Elgin-based contractor Martam Construction Inc
Public Works Manager Chris Gottlieb said while the bid from Martam Construction exceeds the $165,000 budget for the project
additional costs will be covered using surplus funds from the Prairie Street resurfacing project
Martam Construction also built the recently completed First Street Plaza
Committee members recommended approval of the contract in a unanimous vote at their April 28 meeting
improvements also include the installation of new curb extensions and pavement markings at the north and south sides of Illinois Avenue between First Street and Riverside Avenue
The contract is expected to go before City Council for possible final approval at their May 8 meeting.
2025 at 10:40 pm CDTExpandAutoplayImage 1 of 13Charlie Murphy greets his wife
after being announced the winner of the 2025 Charlemagne Award during the Charlemagne Awards Soirée on Friday
Sandy BressnerPhotographer and Photo Editor with over 20 years of working in the newspaper industry.
By First Alert 4 StaffPublished: Apr. 24, 2025 at 4:09 PM CDTEmail This LinkShare on FacebookShare on X (formerly Twitter)Share on PinterestShare on LinkedInST. LOUIS, Mo. (First Alert 4) - A man is facing multiple felony charges in the City of St. Louis and St. Charles County after an investigation into illegal drug sales.
St. Louis police said that an investigation into illegal drug sales at The Bank Herbal Wellness Center off Riverview led them to a suspect who lives in St. Charles County. The St. Louis Police Department then worked with the St. Charles County Police Department, St. Charles County Drug Task Force and the ATF to execute a search warrant in the 600 block of Westbridge Drive.
During the search, police said they found a large quantity of suspected marijuana and drugs. A 50-year-old man was arrested on multiple felony charges.
The suspect’s name has not been released.
but she’s giving serious Main Character Energy
has transformed herself from a mysterious unknown to a legitimate – and rising – fashion icon
it was only in June of 2024 that her Instagram was private
she’s the face of a major campaign for Rhode beauty with a devoted 1.3 million following her every last yacht-borne selfie
The 22-year-old Italian was first rumoured to be connected to Leclerc in early 2023
after she was spotted in the background of a TikTok of the driver at Paris Fashion Week
Saint Mleux appeared at the Monaco Grand Prix as an official guest of Ferrari; in July
the pair made their first appearance together at Wimbledon serving serious glamour
model Francisca ‘Kika’ Gomes and her partner
Charles Leclerc and Alexandra Saint-Mleux at Wimbledon 2023
where the latter pair made their first appearance together
in the form of Ferrari prancing horse earrings
This content can also be viewed on the site it originates from
who The New York Times dubbed ‘the most famous woman in men’s tennis’ and Wimbledon chose to front its own Threads fashion series
It’s about time F1 found its own equivalent: after years of a growing female audience
sponsorship by the likes of Charlotte Tilbury and a motorsport-inspired Chanel Cruise 2023 Collection
F1 announced in October that LVMH would become a global partner
Those in the know about tennis, know about Morgan Riddle. Riddle and boyfriend Taylor Fritz, the US No 1, are the fashion-forward, head-turning, pap-stealing new Posh ‘n’ Becks of the game. Next up? New York Fashion Week. Then? World domination. Deputy features editor Annabel Sampson tries to keep up
Alexandra Saint Mleux walks in the paddock during the F1 Grand Prix of Spain at Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya in June
they chose not to walk the red carpet together
in an interview at the 2023 Monaco Grand Prix
Leclerc confirmed to reporters that he was no longer single
influencing isn’t Saint Mleux’s career of choice
at L'École du Louvre and has worked as an art assistant at auction house Hôtel Des Ventes De Monte-Carlo and in public relations for Monaco Art Week
She also runs an Instagram account dedicated to her passion for her subject
where she shares pictures of works from Art Basel Paris
Hauser & Wirth Menorca and Foundation Louis Vuitton
This content can also be viewed on the site it originates from
Princess Charlene and Prince Albert of Monaco, race winner Charles Leclerc of Monaco and Alexandra Saint Mleux attend the Gala Dinner For The F1 Grand Prix Of Monaco in May 2024
With a centre court that looks out to the French Riviera, this tennis event is giving even Wimbledon a run for its money in the glamour stakes. Just ask: Zendaya, Beatrice Borromeo and the F1 crowd. It’s the tournament that is so VIP it’s even turning celebrities away
So, what's next for Alexandra Saint-Mleux? With a new, high-octane collaboration between F1 and LVMH on the horizon, might she be tapped as a fashionable ambassador for the luxury conglomerate's brands? Or perhaps she's on track to become a prima gallerina; she certainly has connections to be leveraged. Either way, Tatler is keeping its eye on this Formula 1 fashion star.
Saint Mleux walks the pit lane at the Monaco Grand Prix, May 2024
Editor’s note: An earlier version of this story misidentified one of the alderpersons speaking
Charles City Council member used the closing minutes of a meeting this week to lob accusations against another alderperson and call for his resignation
Alderperson Paul Lencioni strongly criticized fellow council member David Pietryla near the end of the city council meeting on Monday
for his own personal reasons and for whatever quest of power
has recruited to run against me,” Lencioni said
Lencioni accused Pietryla of assisting the opponent’s campaign and abusing his power as an elected official
The remarks came as unofficial election results show Lencioni trailing newcomer Vicki Spellman in the Ward 3 race
Lencioni acknowledged his apparent loss to Spellman
He took issue with one Ward 3 candidate — though never named which — who he said was recruited to run by Pietryla
Pietryla did not respond to Lencioni’s comments during the meeting
But he refuted Lencioni’s claims via text message after the meeting
Lencioni’s comments are unfortunate,” Pietryla wrote
two city council members — Bryan Wirball and Ron Silkaitis — called Lencioni’s behavior inappropriate and disappointing
which led to shouting between him and Lencioni about who had the floor
When Mayor Lora Vitek yielded the floor to Lencioni to continue
Lencioni accused Pietryla of using his position on the council to intimidate and bully local business owners
“David has shown a lack of character and moral strength
“You can’t carry the burden of public trust even down the hall.”
Wirball said the city council room is not the place for Lencioni’s comments
which led again to raised voices between the two
“I just think it’s really inappropriate to bring campaigning here in the chamber,” Wirball said
You can certainly air your grievance with him if you have it
“That’s the most inappropriate thing I’ve heard in this council in a long time,” Silkaitis said
“I cannot believe that we’re dealing (with) a political issue about an election that is over
Pietryla wrote that he has “a wonderful working relationship” with St
“I certainly understand his (Lencioni’s) frustrations post election and wish him the best,” Pietryla said
“I have always been available to discuss any concerns; I wish he had reached out to me to cordially discuss his thoughts prior to council.”
A bit of inclement weather on Tuesday didn’t put a damper on a victory by Marysville High School’s boys tennis team
The early afternoon stormy weather washed out a number of local high school sporting events
enough of a break to allow the Monarchs to host Columbus St
He proudly served in the United States Army Reserves and had a long career as a data analyst at the U.S
He sang bass with the Ambassadors of Harmony Barbershop Chorus for over 30 years
He was a devoted husband to Judy (nee Weidemoyer) Wegner for 40 years
He was a loving father to Tina (Donnie) Klump
He was the beloved grandfather of Taylor Ann (Taylor) Kroll
Robert had a lifelong love of music and passion for singing
and he loved attending countless athletic events
and milestone celebrations for his grandchildren
and driving the Great River Road in Illinois to go eagle spotting and enjoy the beautiful scenery
Charles North head softball coach Tom Poulin smiles while walking off of the field as his team defeated Oswego during the Class 4A semifinal game in June 2024 at the Louisville Slugger Sports Complex in Peoria
Poulin on April 21 won his 300th career game as head coach
St. Charles North coach Tom Poulin didn’t think he’d be coaching softball for a long time when he took over as the team’s varsity coach back in 2011
Poulin is still at the helm of the North Stars program
he added another accomplishment to his storied career
celebrating his 300th career victory with the North Stars’ 9-7 victory over Batavia
“Softball is just one of the most enjoyable parts of my life now,” Poulin said
especially with a group that is such a fun-loving group that is really special to me
I’m glad that I was able to share it with with this team.”
who also is the boys basketball coach and a former football coach
has been with the team since the school’s first season in 2001
He started as the freshman coach and was an assistant coach for April Stary before succeeding her as head coach in 2011
Poulin made an immediate mark in his first year with the program
He guided the North Stars to a 32-4 record in 2011 and the program’s first sectional title
Charles North team advanced all the way to the Class 4A state championship game
“That team put the expectations out there for what this program is going to be like going forward,” Poulin said
“So I think over the years we’ve tried to meet those expectations
“But I think the culture of the program right now that we’ve been able to develop is really the most important thing to me as far as coaching goes
we want to have that success and and be downstate again and all those things
but more important to me is preserving the culture that we’ve been able to create
and we’ve created one that is a program full of high expectations on the field.”
The North Stars have had 10 20-plus win seasons
and won 10 regional titles and five sectional titles since their first trip downstate
Poulin has also led the North Stars to two state titles in 2022 and 2024
he’s made sure that the state knows that St
Charles North is a threat in the state of Illinois
everyone was saying that there was no good softball being played up north,” Poulin said
Charles North softball was in the state of Illinois
And I believe that we’ve been able to do that.”
Poulin’s path to 400 victories has already begun
with the North Stars going 4-0 over their last four games following his milestone win
And he has no intention on stopping anytime soon
“The most important game is the next one that you’re playing in,” Poulin said
“My next milestone is to try and send this senior class out the right way
I hope to be be around and coaching a lot more softball games for Saint Charles north as the years go forward.”
When Mark Pasqualini took over at Aurora Central Catholic program in 2021
the team didn’t even have a junior varsity team
which led to multiple underclassmen getting an early start on varsity
including the current senior class when they joined in 2022
who have seven seniors on the team this season
and look well on their way to their second consecutive 20-win season for the first time in program history
we’ve taken a lot of chances the last three years to prepare them for this season and what could be a successful season.” Pasqualini said
and hopefully we’ll be better prepared from a game standpoint going into the playoffs.”
One senior that’s been a starter for all four seasons that has been crucial to their success is Kate Gambro
The Benedictine commit is hitting .365 and currently leads the Chargers in hits (27)
“She’s just fearless at the plate,” Pasqualini said
Another senior that has emerged for the Chargers this season in Jessica Pleckham
who leads the team with a .455 batting average that has moved her to the top of the lineup
and she’s got good wheels so she gets on base almost every time she puts a ball in play,” Pasqualini said
She had a little swing issue that I think she worked out
and once she got that straightened out she’s putting the ball right where she needs to.”
It’s not just the seniors that are providing the spark
Junior Corina Miller has 10 wins and a 1.80 ERA in the circle
while other players like juniors Morgan Vaghy
Grace Grunloh and sophomore Abby Gambro have been crucial on offense
but we’ve got nine or 10 girls that can contribute,” Pasqualini said
and hopefully that’s what makes this team successful.”
When St. Charles East junior Hayden Sujack stepped up to the plate for the first time against Wheaton North pitcher Hannah Wulf, the sound of a rooster, or more over a Gamecock, crowing rang over the loudspeaker.
It was a gesture that made both Sujack and Wulf smirk a bit.
“It was definitely a little interesting, but I love it,” Sujack said. “It kept the game light and fun.”
The crowing was an homage to the two players committing to the University of South Carolina last fall. It was the first time that the two have hit the field as opponents since their commitments.
Their tenure in Columbia won’t be the first time that the two will have shared the field together, as they’ve done so plenty of times as members of the Chicago Cheetahs’ travel team.
“I’m always super competitive against her, especially since we are best friends,” Sujack said. “But I’m really excited to play with her as teammates in college. She’s quite literally the best person I know and truly an amazing pitcher.”
Sujack is proving why she’s Division-I bound early in her junior season, as she’s batting .391 and leads the Saints in doubles (4), home runs (5), RBIs (18) and on-base percentage (.483) as they head into the latter half of the season. She also has a triple, which she got off of Wulf to break up her no-hit bid in the Saints’ 4-1 loss to the Falcons.
The two will have at least three more showdowns in DuKane Conference play before heading down to Columbia to be college teammates. But for now, Sujack’s sole focus is on helping the Saints, who are looking for their first win in conference play.
“I’m ready to go,” Sujack said. “I’m excited to play against her again. It’s always a competition, but I really just want to help my team. And if I can get on, get at least a barrel on the ball, my team know that they can do it too. I just want to keep doing it for my team.”
St. Charles East 16, Batavia 0 (4 innings)
Hayden Sujack and Addison Wolf each hit two home runs and drove in four runs, while Lexi Majkszak added a solo home run to help the Saints (10-9, 1-3 DuKane Conference) to their first conference win of the season.
Makayla Van Dinther (2 for 3, 2 doubles, RBI) got the win in the circle, allowing just two hits and striking out seven over four innings.
Kenzie Krauch and Teagan Sullivan recorded the only hits for the Bulldogs (4-10, 0-3).
Isabelle Reed allowed just one hit and struck out 14 batters to help the Rockets (9-12, 7-3 Fox Valley Conference) to a shutout victory over the Trojans.
Allie Botkin had two hits in the game and added an RBI. Kelsey Covey had the team’s other hit and RBI in the game.
Julianna Kouba drove in two runs and Paige Murray gave the North Stars (11-4, 3-2 DuKane) the lead in the sixth inning, but gave up two runs in the bottom of the seventh to fall in walk-off fashion.
Megan O’Connor (2 for 4) and Kaitlyn Sprague (1 for 4) each had an RBI as the Vikings (6-10, 0-3) fell to the Falcons at home.
Kate Gambro (two RBIs) and Ashley Moore each put up three hits, while Grace Grunloh and Jessica Pleckhard each added a pair of knocks, but it wasn’t enough as the Chargers (17-6, 6-3 GCAC - White) fell at home.
St. Francis 14, Aurora Central Catholic 0 (6 innings)
The Spartans (14-3, 3-0 CCL - White) put up 11 extra-base hits to secure a conference victory over the Chargers (9-9, 0-3).
Nolan Galla led the scoring efforts in the game, hitting a triple and a home run while driving in four. Zack Maduzia (one RBI) led the team with four hits, while Joey Gainer was close behind with three. James McGrath (two hits) and Brady Hill each had a home run and two RBIs. Colt Armbrust (three hits, two RBIs) got the win on the mound for the Spartans, allowing just four hits and striking out nine.
Brodie Curry had two hits on the day to lead the Chargers on offense.
Mason Bruesch hit a go-ahead two-run home run in the top of the sixth and finished with three RBIs as the Vikings (16-5, 6-2 DuKane) secured their third straight conference series.
Nick Price added two hits and two RBIs in the Vikings’ win. Ryan Kastor and Alex Abraham also had two hits in the contest.
Nate Campbell paced the offense with three RBIs as the Knights (14-4, 4-1 Interstate 8) won their sixth consecutive contest.
Preston Popovich finished with three hits and had two RBIs. Brady Alstott added a two-run home run that ended the contest. Carter Grabowski also drove in two runs in the game.
On the mound, Hayden Foster allowed five hits and one run while striking out eight in six innings of work for the win.
The Cadets (12-8-1, 3-0 GCAC - White) put up seven runs in the second inning and eight runs in the third to secure a dominant conference victory.
Charlie Schweiner, Kevin Schultz, Emmit Collins and Ronan O’Connor each had two RBIs in the contest to lead the scoring.
Andrew Zolna had two hits and recorded the only RBI as the Saints (10-8, 6-2 DuKane) dropped Game 2 of the three-game series against the Lancers.
Zach Hartwig scored the only run for the Rockets (10-9, 3-6 Fox Valley) as they dropped the conference contest.
Wheaton-Warrenville South 11, St. Charles North 1 (5 innings)
Keaton Reinke recorded the team’s only hit and Ty Heimbuch had the only RBI as the North Stars (9-10, 4-4 DuKane) lost their second game of the three-game series.
Michael Vander Luitgaren drove in two runs with a double and an RBI while Liam Darre recorded three hits as the Bulldogs (5-13-1, 2-6) dropped their fifth consecutive conference game.
A five-goal performance from Taylor Mills helped catapult the Knights (12-2-1, 6-1 Interstate 8) to their sixth straight conference victory.
Sophia Rosati added a pair of goals in the contest, while Kyra Lilly, Hannah Boyer and Ella Bischoff each scored once.
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Charles North's Julianna Kouba hits a home run during a game against Lake Park on Wednesday
Mercy has begun construction on a 75-bed hospital in Wentzville that will soon serve the region’s booming west suburbs
The facility will be built less than a half-mile from where Interstates 70 and 64 converge at Highway 61 in St. Charles County. Workers have cleared a 60-acre property previously filled with trees and started constructing a utility building, the first steps of what will eventually be a $650 million facility
The Catholic health system has been consulting with residents about what they would like to see offered at the new hospital
said Community Operations Senior Vice President David Argueta
“They're excited about that care closer to home
interested in what kind of services that might entail,” he said
“Emergency care has been something that has been at the top of everyone's list
They want to make sure that every component of our care model is available to them.”
Mercy executives on Thursday morning used shiny shovels decorated with large bows to sift around brightly colored dirt in a ceremonial groundbreaking at the property
used an aspergillum to shake holy water on the ground and on the attendants
He blessed the workers who would be constructing the hospital and those who would soon work there
Architectural renderings of the future grounds show a slightly boomerang-shaped hospital with glass walls around five stories high
The new hospital will give patients a “frictionless experience,” said Mercy President and CEO Steve Mackin
“We have a sense of their needs as they come in
and then we can use kind of a digital experience to help move them from appointment to another,” he said
and we should be able to take that information to be able to more proactively and predictably serve them.”
The state health department had to confirm the need for another hospital in the region before Mercy could begin to build
a process that health system officials said was completed in record time
Charles County Council member Mike Elam said it seems every other day a new business in the area is cutting a ribbon
“If you look at everything that's going on west of Wentzville
even out to Foristell and the large double interchange that they're putting in out there
you're going to see a ton of growth,” he said
“There is so much that continues to move westward.”
He said he’s heard of residents driving a half-hour or more to get to hospitals farther east
and it's so nice to have this right here in our community,” he said
you want to get to that quality of care as quickly as possible
Mercy officials say that because the new hospital’s 60-acre property is large
the health system could eventually add other services
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ST. CHARLES – The St. Charles Education Association (SCEA) today filed a complaint against attorney Larry Bettag for knowingly engaging in unethical and dishonest conduct related to the St
Charles Community Unit District 303 school board elections
The complaint was filed with the Attorney Registration and Discipline Commission (ARDC) of the Illinois Supreme Court
The ARDC investigates complaints against attorneys and can take disciplinary action
on mailboxes and even on cars in church parking lots—despite members of those churches specifically asking these individuals not to distribute materials on their grounds
which according to state elections data is chaired by Bettag’s wife
“There is a calculated effort in D303 to take advantage of the community’s trust in our educators
and it is an effort that manipulates the voters in our community,” SCEA President Jennifer Adam said
is working to undermine the work of public educators and public schools by infiltrating our school boards
Our students and our communities deserve better than this
integrity and leaders who will put education and children above political gamesmanship.”
The flyer in question lists only one of the four candidates formally recommended by the coalition of St
The official candidates recommended by the union coalition are:
“These fake flyers mimic the language our coalition of unions has historically used in support of our recommended candidates
falsely claiming that D303 educators have endorsed three school board candidates who did seek the recommendations of our three D303 unions but did not receive them,” SCEA President Jennifer Adam said
“This behavior would be wrong for any citizen
but it is especially egregious when you know it is coming from an attorney who took an oath to uphold the laws of our great state with integrity and respect.”
The union coalition encourages community members to seek accurate information and verify endorsements through trusted sources
“We hope our community recognizes the gravity of this situation
and it isn’t fooled by the disinformation circulating,” Adam said
especially in an election that so directly and deeply impacts our students’ lives.”
SCESP and SCT&M represent the more than 1,400 teachers
and bus drivers currently working at the 15 schools in District 303
They serve the more than 11,500 students in the district
Find more information about the D303 Educator Coalition’s recommended candidates for school board here
The 135,000 member Illinois Education Association (IEA-NEA) is the state’s largest union
IEA represents Pre K-12 teachers outside the city of Chicago and education support staff
retired education employees and students preparing to become teachers
Get all your IEA questions answered in one spot
Beloved daughter of the late Mary and Norbert Wilmes
Devoted mother of Lucy Glosier and Rob (Genny) Glosier; loving grandmother of Dan Glosier
Mike Glosier and Mary (DJ) Lair; treasured great grandmother of Jace
Gunnar and Kyzar; dear sister of the late James (the late Ginny) Wilmes
and Jean (Dave) Schaeffer; sister-in-law to Peggy (Mick) Boschert; treasured aunt and great aunt
Mary Dean graduated from The Academy of the Sacred Heart in 1950 and was active in the Alumni Association for many years
She worked at Ely Walker and Lindenwood College until she married Bob in 1953
Mary Dean was a devout Catholic and very active at St
For nearly 40 years she also coordinated preparation and transportation of casseroles for homeless at St
Mary Dean volunteered for many years at Birthright of St
Mary Dean was an avid golfer for many years
She also enjoyed traveling with family and friends
gardening and watching sports on television
Most of all she loved spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren
She was dearly loved and will be greatly missed by all who knew her
Franklin “Frank” Delano Hockett of Saint Charles
Iowa and was the son of Joseph (Joe) and Jessie Spry Smith
He was the devoted husband of Anita (Wildman) Hockett (decd.) for 71 years
He was preceded in death by three sisters (Florence
when he was adopted by Erna and Lester Hockett
Frank amazingly found his birth family 65 years later including his sisters and mother
Family love entered his life at age 14 when Raymond and Leva Cutforth of Runnells
Frank graduated from Runnells High School where he discovered a lovely
tall female basketball player named Anita from the neighboring town of Mitchellville
They eloped before Frank served in the Army during the Korea war
he entered the University of Iowa earning an Electrical Engineering (EE) degree later receiving a Masters EE degree from the University of Missouri-Rolla
Frank and Anita had remained strong Hawkeye University of Iowa supporters throughout their lifetimes
Louis working on the Gemini space program and the US Navy Harpoon programs
Upon retirement he worked several years at Washington University Medical Research Center as an Electronics Specialist
He also enjoyed teaching coursework in the Math Department at Lindenwood University
Frank’s love of vocal music was inspired at 1st United Methodist Church in Wichita Falls
Louis he lent his tenor voice to the Bach Choral Society
and finally the University Chorus at Lindenwood University
He and Anita traveled extensively to six continents
Frank became an ardent fly fisherman while studying at the University of Iowa and especially enjoyed fishing the tailwaters of the West and Midwest
His flyfishing legacy and passion has been passed on to his children and grandchildren
Donations in honor of Frank may be made to: Runnells Christian Church; 309 Brown St.; Box 30; Runnells