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Thursday, January 25, 2018

Serving Palos, Orland and Worth townships and neighboring communities

77th Year, NO. 4 • 2 Sections

ORLAND PARK

Sertoma seeks approval for 16-unit residence

By Dermot Connolly Staff Writer

Photo by Anthony Caciopo

Denise Sibley speaks to 125+ fellow parents and parishioners at Incarnation Church last Thursday who were on hand to hear—and speak out against—a decision by the Archdiocese of Chicago to close Incarnation School. Sibley is a member of the school’s Steering Committee who, along with committee member Kevin Fagan, led Incarnation’s campaign to save the school.

Incarnation School to close

Parents in Palos Heights express anger, uncertainty of the future

By Anthony Caciopo Regional News Editor

Amid impassioned pleas and shouts of criticism, the faithful at Incarnation Parish in Palos Heights learned unequivocally last Thursday that their school will permanently close in June.

And now many parents and students are wondering where they’ll go to continue a Catholic education.

“Does anyone feel that the Archdiocese went through the motions and took advantage of us?” shouted Jim Breslin to applause from many of the more than 125 people who were present last Thursday at Incarnation Church to hear a presentation by an Archdiocese of Chicago official.

“I feel like we didn’t get the chance,” rang out a voice from the rear of the church. “Why not give us two more weeks?”

Two more weeks of precious time is what parents and supporters of Incarnation School, 5757 W. 127th St., were hoping to obtain from the Archdiocese as it prepared its list of anticipated school closings.

Officially released last week, the list included five schools—four in the suburbs—including Incarnation and Our Lady of The Ridge School in Chicago Ridge, which temporarily staved off a threat of closing last year with a huge fundraising effort and enrollment drive that proved short-lived.

The Incarnation community had rallied in recent months in

an attempt to avert a closing of its own school, raising more than $50,000 in donations in one day alone earlier this month at a gala fundraiser that drew more than 600 people.

To date, the drive has collected at least $153,000 in addition to money already in the bank but Archdiocese officials called for a total of $600,000 to cover costs of the 2017/18 school year and the proposed 2018/19 school year.

Parents said enough money for all but next year’s expenses are on hand, and they were well on their way to acquiring that money, too.

The goal of school supporters and organizers of the fundraising efforts was to buy just a bit more time, they said, to stay off the closure list and be seen as a

viable option for parents of the Our Lady of The Ridge (OLR) school to enroll their children at Incarnation. The schools are three miles apart.

The number of students at each school is below the mandate of the Archdiocese, but Incarnation supporters felt that a combined enrollment would keep the school alive.

But their dreams were not realized.

“We recognize the pain and emotion that is present,” said Tom McGrath, chief executive officer of Catholic Schools as he opened last Thursday’s meeting. “There’s not enough church-going demand to fill (some) Catholic schools. That’s the heart and the sadness behind—

See ORLAND PARK, Page 3

3RD CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT

Mayors back Lipinski, special interest groups favor Newman

See INCARNATION, Page 2 By Bob Bong

Rarely seen feathered friend wings its way to Palos Park

By Dermot Connolly Staff Writer

Dozens of birdwatchers have flocked to Palos Park in recent weeks hoping to snap photos of a little bird not commonly found around here—a varied thrush.

The slate gray and orange bird native to the Pacific Northwest found its way to 125th Street, where Kelly and Kent Oliven first noticed it a couple weeks ago at the birdfeeder stocked with seeds and dried fruit outside their house west of Windsor Drive. Since word spread, the bird has been drawing crowds of birders to the area hoping for a peek at it, sometimes tying up traffic on 125th Street.

But Kelly Oliven said this week that there have been no sightings of the bird since Friday, so the dozen or so people who were there around noon on Friday with long-lens cameras may have been the last to see him.

“Maybe he moved on when the weather got a little warmer over the weekend,” she said.

On Friday, she mingled with the birders quietly snapping photos of the thrush, which had found shelter in a stand of evergreens and other trees east of Windsor Drive. As the bird flitted between branches, and then landed on the ground, the birdwatchers, who were bundled up against the cold, pointed him out and made sure everyone got a look.

“He’s cheating on me over here,” she joked.

A proposed three-story,16unit Sertoma Centre apartment building was recommended for approval by an Orland Park Village Board committee last week, and will now go to the full village board for a vote.

Typically, issues approved at committee level are voted on at the next village board meeting, which in this case is Feb. 5.

The proposed development, designed for Sertoma clients who can live independently with support services, has already been approved by the village Plan Commission. It would be built on property adjacent to forest preserves, at the end of what is now a cul-de-sac, at the end of Union Street, north of 143rd Street and west of Southwest Highway. An underused funeral home is located there now.

The mission of Sertoma Centre, Inc., according to the organization’s website, is “to provide opportunities that empower individuals with disabilities to achieve personal success.”

Sertoma “envisions communities where all people with disabilities live, work and fully

participate.”

Orland Park Assistant Village Manager Karie Friling, who also heads the Development Services Department, explained the plans at the Orland Park Village Board’s Development Services, Planning and Engineering Committee meeting on Jan. 15.

She said the building would have two two-bedroom apartments and the rest would be one-bedroom units. The building will also include a couple of rooms where residents can either socialize or meet with counselors.

A spokesperson for Sertoma said at the committee meeting that the location within the downtown zoning district fits the needs of Sertoma and its clients, being within walking distance of the Metra station at 143rd Street, as well as amenities such as stores and restaurants while having minimal impact on the residents who currently live on the block.

Most of the apartment residents will not have cars, and Sertoma representatives said the building will likely have minimal impact on the single-family residences on the street.

However, John Newton, an

Photo by Carol Cooley

A varied thrush, native to the Pacific Northwest, found its way to Palos Park this winter, and has drawn birders from throughout Illinois hoping to get a photo.

At one point, the colorful bird flew from the trees onto a bare branch beside the road, as if to make sure all the “paparazzi” could get clear photos before he left town.

Mel Tracy, owner of the Wild Birds Unlimited store at 13012 See FEATHERED FRIEND, Page 3

The Democratic primary fight in the 3rd Congressional district between conservative incumbent Dan Lipinski and liberal challenger Marie Newman has become a war of endorsements that reflect their ideology.

Lipinski is regarded as one of the most conservative House Democrats and is a member of the Blue Dog Coalition of conservative Democrats. He opposed Obamacare in 2010 and has consistently voted against pro-choice legislation.

Last week, he picked up the endorsements of the mayors of 30 suburbs in the district. He has received union endorsements, including from the Illinois AFLCIO. His opponent in the March 20 primary is more in line with traditional Democratic liberal ideas such as health care, women’s rights, veterans and Medicare.

That has shown itself in the endorsements she has picked up including from two of Lipinski’s more liberal House colleagues from Illinois. U.S. Rep. Jan Scha-

Dan Lipinski

Marie Newman

kowsky and Rep. Luis Gutierrez.

Both have endorsed Newman. It’s very rare for congressmen from the same party to back a challenger over one of their own.

She has also picked up support from other Democrats including New York Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand and her Off the Sidelines Political Action Committee.

Newman has some labor support of her own, receiving a union endorsement from the National Nurses Association, which cited her views on Medicare as one of the reasons they preferred her to Lipinski.

One of the mayors to endorse Lipinski was the mayor of Newman’s home town of La Grange, Tom Livingston.

See PRIMARY, Page 2

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2 Thursday, January 25, 2018

The Regional News

POLICE BLOTTER: ORLAND PARK Identity theft Sier M. Simmons, 24, of Chicago, was charged with felony identity theft after police said he tried to get a $1,150 iPhone X added to an account using another person’s personal information at 2:43 p.m. Dec. 15, in the Apple store in Orland Square Mall. Employees alerted police who were conducting surveillance, and he was apprehended after running through the mall, knocking over a Christmas tree and other items. He was also cited for criminal damage to property and resisting a police officer, and held for a bond hearing.

DUI Chad M. Dyehouse, 26, of Worth, was charged with driving under the influence of alcohol following a hit-and-run accident at 12:02 p.m. Dec. 22, at 159th Street and LaGrange Road. Police said he was apprehended a few blocks away. He was also cited for leaving the scene of a property damage accident and was due in court on Jan. 18.

Steven T. DeYoung, 61, of Palos Hills, was charged with driving under the influence of alcohol following a traffic stop at 7:59 p.m.

Dec. 23, in the 9100 block of West 159th Street. Police said he failed field sobriety tests and was also cited for improper lane usage. He was due in court on Jan. 24.

Edwin Palmer Jr., 65, of Aurora, was charged with driving under the influence of alcohol following a hit-and-run accident at 2:47 p.m.

Dec. 29, at 151st Street and 94th Avenue. Police said his vehicle struck an Orland Fire Protection District truck and left the scene.

He was also cited for leaving the

Incarnation School students: where will they go?

scene of an accident and failure to Catholic Schools CEO Tom yield to emergency vehicles. He is McGrath has advice for Incardue in court on Feb. 16. nation families who want to continue Catholic education for Reckless driving Ali H. Alsalahi, 19, of Orland their children.

“Start shopping now.”

Park, was charged with reckless The June 6, 2018 closure of driving after he allegedly drove Incarnation School means that up off the road while attempting to to 143 students must find a new make a turn at the corner of 154th place to learn in preparation for the Street and Harlem Avenue at 7:09 start of the coming academic year. p.m. Dec. 22. Police said he was And the search is already provdriving at a high rate of speed, ing to be a scramble. went over a curb and across grass “I’m really overwhelmed,” said before returning to the road and Incarnation parent Andrea Covert getting stuck because a tire had whose son, Trent, is in seventh blown out. He is due in court on grade. “I’ve been ‘school shopFeb. 14. ping’ all morning.”

While it’s unknown what numCriminal damage ber of Incarnation families will Richard P. Sichelski, 24, of leave the Catholic school system Worth, was charged with criminal damage to property after allegedly causing a disturbance at the Irish Patriot bar, 9875 W. 143rd St., at 2:22 a.m. Dec. 22. A bartender told Continued from Page 1 police that Sichelski became irate when the music was turned off and in part—what you are experiencing he and two friends were told they in your parish school.”

McGrath used a projector and had to leave. He allegedly punched a screen to show a graph of Inhis fist through a window as he carnation enrollment since 2013, was being escorted out. He was a downward trajectory that began due in court on Jan. 8. at 211 students and ended with the current count of 143.

Retail theft “We see this decline at many, Valtina Brown, 49, of Markham, many schools in the Archdiowas charged with felony retail theft cese, notwithstanding excellent at Carson’s in Orland Square Mall programs,” he said. at 10 p.m. Dec. 22. Police said Barely more than a handful that an in-store investigation de- of minutes into the meeting that termined that while working as a ultimately lasted two hours, the cashier, over a period of a few congregation began pushing back weeks, she took $100 bills out of on McGrath. money bags she was responsible “I don’t want to hear your numfor turning in on four separate oc- bers now,” said a parent. “I want casions. Police said she admitted to know what I need to do going taking a total of $700 in cash. forward with my child.”

Brown was held for a bond hearing.

The uncertainty and anger expressed by many parents who wondered how they can continue Catholic education for their children made for an unusual scene inside a normally reverent and west Highway. Police said he was quiet place of worship. also cited for driving with only McGrath’s presentation was one headlight and possession of repeatedly interrupted by attenddrug paraphernalia. They said two ees who challenged him and the pipes and a bong used to smoke Archdiocese at virtually every turn. marijuana were found in the car. He The CEO for the most part let is due at a hearing in the Kaptur the meeting attendees speak their Administration Center on Feb. 7. minds as comments flew from pew to pew, some in controlled tones and some with palpable emotion.

No parishioners at the meeting argued with the reality of declining numbers in enrollment. RathMichelle L. Davis, 33, of Ham- er, they felt that church officials, mond, Ind., was charged with even their own pastor knew long driving with a suspended license ago, perhaps years, how dire the following a traffic stop at 8:33 situation was becoming and did a.m. Monday, in the 11900 block little or nothing to communicate of South Harlem Avenue. Police the financial concerns to the consaid she was also cited for failure gregation and create a plan to fix to wear a seatbelt. She is due in the situation. court on Feb. 13.

The Incarnation School Board Kenyatta A. Lee, 45, of Chica- was visited last September by repgo, was charged with driving with resentatives from the Archdiocese, a suspended license following a who informed board members of traffic stop at 9:47 a.m. Monday, the school’s very precarious sitin the 6500 block of West 127th uation. Many in the Incarnation Street. Police said she is due in community said they were caught court on March 15. completely off-guard.

Raul Mejia, 41, of Chicago, How did we get to this spot?” was charged with driving with said Colleen Breslin. “A select few a suspended license following a people were of this knowledge. traffic stop in the 12100 block of The rest of the people, although South Ridgeland Avenue at 5:34 we were in church and heard the a.m. Monday. Police said he was financial system wasn’t great… also cited for having a defective never was it put forth. The parish windshield. He is due in court on has always supported the school, March 15. so why would we think anything Doha Abu-Tahoun, 19, of Alsip, different?” was charged with driving with a “If you knew about this decline suspended license following a traf- for say, 7-10 years, where has the fic stop at 9:07 p.m. Monday, in planning from the Archdiocese the 7200 block of West Route 83. been?” said another woman.

Linda O’Leary, who has a Police said she is due in court on daughter attending Incarnation, March 15.

said “It’s up to your administration to come to the parents. We didn’t get that. From 2015 until now, can you imagine what we would have done to keep our school open if our parents knew about it?”

CEO McGrath told the attendees, “Back in 2015, to lose 50 kids in two years, nobody expected that to occur. The Archdiocese can’t pay for empty seats. We’ll bankrupt ourselves, we’ll bankrupt our schools.”

Addressing the prospect of Incarnation and Our Lady combining enrollments, McGrath gave an example from recent years of six Archdiocese schools that were scheduled to be combined. Two chose to “go it alone,” he said, leaving four parishes to be comPhoto by Anthony Caciopo bined into two locations.

Tom McGrath, CEO of Chicago Catholic Schools, talks about the decision “Of the two locations that closed to close Incarnation School this coming June, citing low enrollment and (of the four remaining), what per- lack of sustaining funds. centage of families went to the point of view, but a man identified versations did I have when I was newly defined school?” he asked. as “Mike” said the school’s pre- still pastor about how many years “Twenty percent. There was a lot dicament was no surprise to him. we have left,” Mass said. of flight from the schools they “I understand tensions are high,” “The patient was sick. The felt had lost.” he said. “I got married on that school was on the edge. We talked Speaking on behalf of Cardinal altar 20 years ago. I’ve sat here Blasé J. Cupich, said McGrath, 20 years in a row and listened to about that. Enrollment declined “that figure was a key litmus test that stewardship report and every even more the last couple years. It in saying ‘how can we do this.’” time it has been that the school was a trend every year,” he said.

“The parish school I went to Parishioners pointed out two has been under-performing. closed,” said Fr. Mass, who has schools in Lemont, St. Al’s and “I realize it’s probably not a St. Pat’s, that had successfully popular thing in this room, but been a priest in the Archdiocese for 48 years. “The school of my combined. it’s unfair to characterize this cur“Other parishes have tried and rent leadership as being the only young priesthood—closed. The some have held on,” said Mc- problem. I’ve heard time and time school where I first pastored— Grath. “This is only solved in the again that the school is a financial closed. Even the parish I administered for six months—closed. It’s medium-term with tons of extra draw on the parish.” just inevitable. I think everyone cash. You can’t really grow out By “current leadership,” Mike is doing their best to see what of this (via enrollment) in our was referring to Rev. Arek Fallan, environment,” he said, claiming Incarnation’s pastor since 2015. they can do, to hold it together there would always be a massive Fallan was strongly criticized at as best they can.

“Finally, I think, Cardinal Sucapital debt annually, citing demo- the meeting by at least two pargraphics that show the school-age ents who questioned whether he pich has got the devil by the tail,” he said, referring to the Archdipopulation is declining. withheld information about the se“Even if the school (Incarna- riousness of the school’s situation. ocese’s Renew My Church initiative. “I think he’s trying to do tion) had recruited 40 more kids, Fallan sat in the first occupied the cash component was still well pew at the meeting and did not something solid and visionary, and that’s not always easy.” more than a quarter million dollars speak.

The Archdiocese of Chicago, the unraised,” McGrath said.

With McGrath’s first slide showAnother factor working against ing the decline in enrollment still third largest in the United States, a proposed Incarnation/OLR com- on the screen after almost two serves more than 2.2 million Cathbination is timing, he said. hours, the microphone was turned olics in 344 parishes in Cook and “Say we (the Archdiocese) said over to Rev. Ronald Mass, who Lake Counties, a geographic area ‘Let’s give them until March 31,’ retired as pastor at Incarnation of 1,411 square miles, according to the organization’s news releasand you hit March 31 and you 3 1/2 years ago. don’t make it (sufficient enrollMass, a seemingly beloved per- es. More than 76,00 students are ment). Then, families may be son by most, if not all Incarnation enrolled in 214 Catholic schools.

“Things are going to change and unable to get to the school they parishioners, had been an enthusiwant and they’ll be scrambling,” astic supporter the school’s drive to people are going to have losses.

McGrath said. stay open. But with emotions run- That’s going to hurt. What we need “Even if you assume that the ning high throughout the lengthy to do is fall back on our faith as disciples of Jesus Christ, we have OLR community would come meeting, he sought to soothe. here with the knowledge of risk, “There’s all kinds of people here to be open to the Holy Spirit, and it’s a huge assumption, it really who are heavily invested in the where the Spirit is going to move is, that the OLR families would parish and the school and there’s us, we don’t know.”

Shortly before Mass told the move from their situation in large some who really worked their tails numbers to another one not unlike off the last few months,” he said. meeting attendees to hold hands it. It was not a high expectation,” “It didn’t work. Could things and come together in prayer, he McGrath said. have been done differently along said “We worked hard to preserve Voices at the meeting were few the line? Sure. I could have done the past, and now we’ve got to that were contrary to the majority things differently. How many con- work hard to create the future.”

secured federal resources to help keep our emergency responders safe. He cares for us,” said Summit Mayor Sergio Rodriquez.

“Dan Lipinski has been an unending source of support for transportation issues affecting the Village of Bridgeview,” said Mayor Steven Landek.

Mayors from Burbank, Hickory Hills, Justice, Bedford Park, McCook, Willow Springs, Hodgkins, Indian Head Park and Stickney all announced their support for Lipinski.

“I am honored by the overwhelming support of 30 mayors and village presidents from the 3rd Congressional District who back my re-election to Congress,” Lipinski said. “My belief in working to bring people together to solve problems for my constituents encompasses all levels of government. I cooperate closely with local officials because they understand the needs of their communities; in my capacity as a representative I have been very happy to help them build better places for residents to live, work, and raise their families.”

“The choice for working families could not be clearer,” said Terryl Jares, Illinois AFL-CIO Vice President, in announcing the endorsement by the 900,000-member union. “Dan Lipinski is a Democrat who embodies our values, fighting to increase the minimum wage, expand parental

experience means she will hit the ground running in Washington” said Lynda DeLaforgue, Co-Director of Citizen Action/Illinois, the state’s largest public interest organization.

She has the endorsement of Pueblo Sin Fronteras / Familia Latina Unida, which was formed primarily by undocumented Mexican Catholics whose efforts to organize their own community and provide a better education for their children were opposed by the neighborhood Catholic Church.

They were active in their church and depended on their faith – but they wanted a church that would support their efforts.

“Marie Newman is the clear choice for strong leadership for immigrant families in the 3rd Congressional district,” said Pastor Emma Lozano. “For too long, the 3rd has had anti-immigrant and anti-women’s health representation. And it’s time for a strong progressive like Marie to represent the true values of the community.”

Reclaim Chicago is a grassroots political organization that endorses, elects and holds accountable elected officials who put the needs of people and the health of our planet before corporate profits.

“As a resident of the 3rd District and Co-Chair of the Movement Politics Table for Reclaim Chicago, I am excited for us to be endorsing Marie Newman for Congress,” said Quade Gallagher.

Incarnation

POLICE BLOTTER: PALOS PARK Marijuana possession Brandon S. Haynes, 19, of Oak Lawn, was issued a local adjudication ticket for possession of less than 10 grams of cannabis following a traffic stop at 3:22 a.m. Jan. 14, in the 11900 block of South-

POLICE BLOTTER: PALOS HEIGHTS DUI Abdel R. Obeid, 50, of Orland Hills, was charged with driving under the influence of alcohol at 12:59 a.m. Sunday, in the 12700 block of South Harlem Avenue.

Police said he was also cited for speeding and improper lane usage.

He is due in court on Feb. 13.

Revoked license Kyle B. Dorner, 23, of Worth, was charged with driving with a revoked license following a traffic stop at 12:32 a.m. last Thursday, in the 12000 block of South 71st Court. Police said he was also cited for driving without insurance and speeding. He is due in court on Feb. 28.

Suspended license Jushila Green, 24, of Markham, was charged with driving with a suspended license following a traffic stop at 7:31 a.m. last Thursday, in the 7200 block of West College Drive. Police said she was also cited for having revoked registration and driving without insurance. She is due in court on March 15.

Primary

Continued from Page 1 “From his seat on the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, Dan Lipinski has played a key role at both the federal and local level in providing parking critical to our downtown revitalization, helping us mitigate flooding, and making rehabilitation of our iconic Stone Avenue station possible with $700,000 in federal money,” Livingston said. “I’m proud to support Dan because he’s delivered for our community.”

In endorsing Lipinski, many of the mayors cited Lipinski’s care for his constituents, accessibility, success leveraging resources and support for local communities, as well as constituent services.

“Dan has been a fixture in our community,” said Lyons Mayor Chris Getty. “From attending Fourth of July parades to Cops Night Out events, he always takes the time to meet with our residents and to listen. That’s why Dan is successful as a congressman – because he listens to his constituents and fights for their interests.”

“Dan Lipinski is a great advocate for the Village of Summit. We are working with him to modernize our community’s transportation infrastructure, which includes upgrading our Metra station and improving local roads. And he

leave, and protect workers’ rights to organize and bargain.”

Lipinski’s lifetime labor scorecard, according to the AFL-CIO, exceeds 90 percent.

The endorsement was highly regarded by Lipinski. “I am honored to once again receive the support of the Illinois AFL-CIO and proud to be recognized as a champion for working families,” he said. “We must continue to fight for the creation of high-quality jobs, better wages, and trade agreements that benefit American workers.”

Newman has said she was running against Lipinski, who was first elected in 2004 to replace his father William Lipinski, because he was out of touch with Democratic values.

“Our rights are under assault and he has done nothing to protect women, working families, small business and the LGBTQ community,” she said. “His views are dangerous to the district and to the nation.”

She has picked up support from a variety of organizations that agree with her views on these same issues.

“Marie Newman will be a champion for women’s reproductive rights, equal rights, high-quality health care and the rights of working people who feel like their voices are not being heard in Congress. Marie’s unique combination of small business and non-profit

and enroll their children in public schools, competition for openings at nearby parish schools is likely to be strong.

Potentially complicating the situation is that tuition varies by school and is not set by the Archdiocese of Chicago. Incarnation parents might be faced with higher costs at other schools.

At St. Alexander School in Palos Heights, a little more than 1 1/2 miles down the road from Incarnation, the welcome mat is out, according to Cathy Biel, principal.

“There are spaces at St. Alexander and we are welcoming new families,” she said. “We are open and giving tours.”

Biel said she could not say pre-

cisely how many openings exist at St. Alexander (“It’s a fluid number, it changes”) but said there have been inquiries. Openings are filled on a first-come, first-served basis, she said.

“Our school board and family/ school association are working on welcoming activities to make people feel comfortable when they walk through our doors,” Biel said.

An open house is being held this coming Sunday at the school, 7025 W. 126th St., from 9 a.m. to noon.

Other Catholic schools in the general area, all with open houses at varying times this Sunday, include St. Damian in Oak Forest; St. Christopher in Midlothian; St. Catherine, St. Linus, St. Germaine

“We need a strong, bold vision for the 3rd District to ensure that the dignity of people of our community is upheld and fought for on the national stage, and Marie is the candidate for that vision.”

Feminist pioneer Gloria Steinem was an early Newman supporter. “We need effective, principled fighters who can put an end to this president’s unilateral actions by stopping them in Congress — and that’s what Marie Newman will do. It’s what she stands for.

She is unafraid of doing what’s right, even in this time when it isn’t easy. Too many times, Dan Lipinski has voted to deprive citizens of healthcare, to oppose immigrant’s rights, to de-fund Planned Parenthood, to suppress contraception, to oppose marriage equality, and to deny the rights of LGBTQ Americans. He is not a Democrat or even a supporter of human rights.”

Others to voice their support for Newman include the Feminist Majority, the gun-safety group LEAP Forward, the American Women’s Party advocacy group and the NARAL Pro-Choice America organization.

“Time is up for Congressman Lipinski. For too long, Dan Lipinski has ignored the needs of working families across Illinois, by pushing his fringe ideological agenda at the expense of women and families across the state,” said Ilyse Hogue, president of NARAL

and St. Gerald in Oak Lawn; and Cardinal Joseph Bernardin School in Orland Hills. This is not intended to be a comprehensive list, nor is The Regional News making any claim of openings at any particular school.

“Anytime a school closes, there are options nearby,” McGrath told Incarnation parents and parishioners last week. “We’ve been doing an assessment right now of what’s our capacity at each of the schools,” he said. “We will actively work with you to find placement for your children.

“I can’t predict where you’ll all go,” he said. “There are enough schools that we’re going to make it work.”

Pro-Choice America.

The following is a list of mayors in 30 communities within the 3rd Congressional District who have endorsed incumbent Dan Lipinski: Alsip - John Ryan Burbank - Dan Foy Bridgeview - Steve Landek Chicago Ridge - Chuck Tokar Hickory Hills - Mike Howley Hometown - Kevin Casey Justice - Kris Wasowicz Merrionette Park - Dennis McGee Oak Lawn - Sandra Bury Orland Hills - Kyle Hastings Palos Heights - Bob Straz Palos Hills - Jerry Bennett Palos Park - John Mahoney Worth - Mary Werner Bedford Park - Dave Brady Berwyn - Bob Lovaro Cicero - Larry Dominic McCook - Jeff Tobolski Stickney - Jeff Walik Forest View - Tom Heller Summit - Sergio Rodriquez LaGrange - Tom Livingston Western Springs - Alice Gallagher Willow Springs - John Carpino Lyons - Chris Getty Hodgkins - Noel Cummings Indian Head Park - Tom Hinshaw Lemont - John Egofske Lockport - Steve Streit Romeoville - John Noak

The Regional News

Thursday, January 25, 2018

Palos Park resident named an Illinois Senior of The Year

3

By Michael Gilbert Correspondent

Batter up! Pancakes feed Dist. 128 Band donors Above: Allie Langford (left), an 8th-grade student at Independence Junior High School and her mother, Debbie, work the griddles churning out pancakes for the Dist.

128 Band fundraiser last Saturday.

Donations from the 10th annual event help with the purchase of musical instruments, as well as fund band-related activities throughout the year, including student events and field trips.

Right: Raegan Meskimen, 3, digs into her breakfast of pancakes and sausages as her mother, Heather, looks on. Not pictured are Raegan’s brother Mason, 9, and father, Mark Meskimen. The popular Dist. 128 Band fundraiser consumed 50 lbs. of pancake batter and 40 lbs. of sausage, along with gallons of coffee and juice.

Photos by Anthony Caciopo

New Sandburg principal hired

By Dermot Connolly Staff Writer

The District 230 school board approved the hiring of Jennifer Tyrell as the new Sandburg High School principal at a special meeting held Jan. 16.

She will take over from Deb Baker, who is retiring at the end of this school year.

Tyrrell isn’t new to the district.

She comes to Sandburg in Orland Park from Stagg High School in Palos Hills, where she has taught, coached and served as an administrator since 2005.

“District 230 is incredibly grateful for the leadership Deb Baker has provided at each of our high schools since joining the district in 2001,” said school board President Rick Nogal in a statement.

“As an English teacher and then division chair for English, music and English Language Learners at Sandburg; as assistant principal at Andrew; associate principal at Stagg and principal at Sandburg High School, she has left a lasting legacy. We wish her all the best in retirement at the end of this school year.

“Jen Tyrrell is a strong leader

Feathered friend Continued from Page 1

S. LaGrange Road, came over to see the star attraction.

“I’m not surprised to see him in these trees. This is the type of habitat he is used to in the Pacific Northwest,” said Tracy.

He noted that it is unusual but not unheard of to see a varied thrush in the Chicago area. He said one was seen in the northern suburbs, near O’Hare Airport, last year.

Karen Garrett took a break from her job at the Little Red School House to come over and see the bird.

“It’s a great way to spend a lunch hour,” said Garrett, after catching a glimpse of it.

She said someone brought a dead varied thrush into Little Red School House last year, after it

Orland Park Continued from Page 1

attorney for resident Cynthia Thompson, said his client is against the project.

“My client has no objection to Sertoma coming in to Orland Park.

They do good work. But this does not make sense in that location.”

He claimed it would have an “adverse effect on property values.

It will discourage some buyers of the single-family homes, if they see an apartment building next-door.

“I understand this is an older street and there have been non-conforming uses. But just because (Sertoma) is a noble cause,

who will continue to focus on student achievement while leading the Sandburg community,” Nogal continued. “It is clear that she is Tyrell passionate about the success of each student, each staff member and the overall needs of the school community.”

Tyrell began as a physical education teacher. She served as division chair for five years and has been associate principal for instruction for the past four years.

In that role, according to district officials, she has provided leadership in curriculum, instruction, assessment and intervention at the school and district levels.

She has also assisted in the hiring and mentoring of staff, led parent and community engagement efforts, planned student recognition initiatives, organized new teacher professional development, facilitated the School Improvement Process, has oversaw budgets and served as building technology liaison.

Tyrrell, who thanked the school board and administration at the meeting for their confidence in her ability to lead Sandburg, has already served on several district-wide committees, including curriculum advisory and the evaluation joint committee.

“Jen’s knowledge, expertise and compassion are incredible assets,” said Superintendent Dr. James M. Gay. “She is committed to collaboration and teamwork which will serve the Sandburg community well during this transition of leadership. Jen is an amazing leader and one of her greatest strengths is her ability to form positive relationships with students and staff.”

Tyrrell is pursuing a doctorate in educational administration and supervision from Loyola University.

She holds a certificate of advanced study in educational leadership from Lewis University, as well as a master of science degree in kinesiology-sports management and a bachelor of science in physical education, both from Western Illinois University.

Gay said Baker and Tyrrell will work closely over the next several months to assure a smooth transition in leadership.

flew into a window.

“Sometimes we do stuff them and keep them in our collection,” she explained.

But its appearance in Palos Park was unusual enough to attract people from throughout the Chicago area, and even southern Illinois, according to all the names listed in the notebook the Olivens left outside for visitors to sign.

“Just to see it is nice,” said Jim Lukancic, who came from Channahon on Friday. “I’ll go anywhere within 50 miles (to see unusual birds).”

Nikki Rumpf and Jennifer Green came from Lemont to see the bird, stopping first in the Orland Grasslands in Orland Park, where they saw another unusual visitor, a snowy owl native to Canada.

“It was a very productive day, getting to see both of them,” said Rumpf.

Debbie Garcy and her husband, Tony, are avid birders from Orland Park, who also saw the snowy owl before coming to Palos Park to try their luck again.

Carol Cooley, a Joliet resident, was able to capture some beautiful photos of the thrush on Friday, too, including one she graciously contributed for this article.

From there, she also made the trek to Orland Grasslands South to see the snowy owl.

“There are many snowy owls seen in the Chicago area and lakefront locations this winter. It is a year of irruption for this bird,” she said, using the term for a great southern migration.

“They’re charming; however, they’re fragile. And they have come a long way,” she said, advising birdwatchers to keep a respectful distance from them so the winged creatures won’t get scared.

it shouldn’t be rubber-stamped at any location,” said Newton. “We would like to see this not proceed, before a traffic study is done.”

Friling pointed out that the apartments would be built on what was a commercially zoned piece of property where a funeral home was located.

“What you have is a less-intense development, if you look at the renderings, it is a traditional-looking building. It looks like townhomes. It has a very residential feel,” she said. “This is going to generate such insignificant traffic, that this could result in having more green space. We are saving a number of heritage trees, too.”

Responding to questions from trustees Carole Ruzich and Kathy

Fenton about staffing and other issues, the Sertoma representatives said that the social service agency manages 11 residences throughout the southwest suburbs. Most are single-family homes where clients live independently, and one in Homewood is an apartment building like the one being considered in Orland Park.

Sertoma staff will manage the site, with the property manager onsite several times a week.

Before recommending the project for approval, Ruzich also got confirmation from village staff that the apartment building would be subject to all the standard rules and regulations followed elsewhere in the village, including permits and inspections.

Palos Park officials Monday celebrated a lifelong resident who was recently honored by an Illinois congressman for her efforts to better her community.

Phyllis Adams was one of 13 senior citizens recognized as a Third Congressional District of Illinois Senior of the Year by U.S. Rep. Dan Lipinski (D-3rd). Adams and the dozen other recipients received their awards from Lipinski on Dec. 11 during a breakfast at Prime Time Restaurant & Bar in Hickory Hills.

Palos Park Mayor John Mahoney, who nominated Adams for the award, praised her contributions to the village during a brief ceremony at the start of the council meeting during which he presented her with a certificate of recognition and a bouquet of flowers.

“Phyllis has consistently shared her time and talents in so many ways over the years and we thank you,” Mahoney said at the council meeting. “She has contributed lifelong involvement to Palos Park.

“You are Palos Park through and through and we are lucky to have you in this town.”

Adams is a past member of the Palos Park Woman’s Club, a longtime volunteer at the McCord Gallery and Cultural Center for the Arts, a member of the Palos Fine Arts Committee and the Palos Village Players.

She is also a member of the Palos Park Citizens on Patrol Service, a volunteer organization that assists the police department by raising funds and providing an additional set of eyes and ears for patrol officers. Adams has also been a member of the Village of Palos Park Historic Preservation Commission and the Zoning Board of Appeals.

“She takes her role on these commissions very seriously with the goal of protecting the history and quality of life in Palos Park,” Mahoney said.

Adams said she had no idea Mahoney had even nominated her for the award, but added it was special to receive the award from Lipinski and to be honored by the council. A retired industrial procurement manager, Adams said she has received a handful of awards from the business world

Photo by Michael Gilbert

Phyllis Adams listens Monday as Mayor John Mahoney thanks her for her lifelong service to Palos Park and congratulates her for being named a Third Congressional District Senior of the Year.

but never for her volunteerism.

“I knew nothing about the award until three days beforehand when I got a call from the congressman’s office and then the mayor called me,” Adams said. “You don’t volunteer to be recognized but this was a really nice surprise.”

Lipinski, who has represented the Third District since succeeding his father, Bill, in 2005, selected the winners based on their contributions to their towns and the district.

“These individuals demonstrate on a daily basis the outstanding spirit and commitment that exists in all of our communities,” Lipinski said in a press release on his website. “I am honored to recognize these seniors who have selflessly donated their time and energy to causes and pursuits that teach all of us the value of service.”

In other news, village officials voted unanimously to enter into an agreement with the Romeoville-based Ultimate Rental Services Inc. in an amount not to exceed $14,450 to provide four tents, two generators, a stage, 50 tables and 100 chairs for this year’s Autumn in the Park festival.

This is the second consecutive year the village has signed a contract with Ultimate Rental Services. Although this year’s contract is approximately $600 more and includes 50 fewer chairs

than 2017, Commissioner Nicole Milovich-Walters said Ultimate Rental Services was still the right option.

“It was still one of the best quotes we received and staff feels comfortable approving this quote because we know what to expect (with) not only the quality of their products but also the service they provide.”

The seventh annual Autumn in the Park is scheduled for Sept.

14-15 on the Village Green, 8901 W. 123rd St. The festival, which Village Manager Rick Boehm has described as the “premier event in the village” is to feature a number of local vendors selling their specialties, as well as live entertainment, chili and rib cook-offs and activities for both children and adults. A parade showcasing civic organizations, community groups and local dignitaries is planned along 123rd Street from 82nd Avenue to 90th Avenue at the start of Day 2.

This is the second consecutive meeting village officials have approved an item pertaining to the festival. The council voted unanimously on Jan. 8 to accept a maximum in-kind donation of $1,000 worth of ribs from the Kansas City-based Smithfield Farmland Sales Corp. The ribs will be used during the barbecue ribs competition scheduled for the second day of the festival.

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4 Thursday, January 25, 2018

Senator Trotter will be missed

Assistant Illinois Senate Majority Leader Donne Trotter (D-Chicago) has retired after almost 30 years in the General Assembly.

Sen. Trotter has been talking about retiring for years, but he has repeatedly been convinced to stick around a while longer.

This time, the entreaties fell on deaf ears. He’s done, and he told me he wants to enjoy his retirement while he’s still able.

It’s safe to say that Leader Trotter has created dozens of invaluable state programs on healthcare and social services over the decades.

He was the Senate Democrats’ top point person on appropriations for years, and that “budgeteer” status gave him the access and the power to help shape the government in incremental measures with every new state budget.

His contributions cannot be minimized. From KidCare, to things like clean needle exchanges, mental health programs, HIV programs -- pretty much anything whatsoever to do with improving the health of people in Illinois -- Trotter (who has a master’s degree in Health Policy of Jurisprudence from Loyola Law School and was an administrator at Cook County Hospital) has been part of it.

Trotter is also well known for his mentorship of young African-Americans. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve watched him stop a conversation among older people to make sure a young black person’s voice was heard.

Rep. Elgie Sims (D-Chicago) is probably one of his most successful mentorships. Sims served on the Senate appropriations staff under Trotter, then became the caucus’ budget director and, after law school, became a state Representative who is now chairman of the House Judiciary Criminal Law Committee.

Sen. Trotter got his political start with U.S. Rep. Ralph Metcalfe’s 1974 campaign. Later, Trotter helped register tens of thousands of voters for Harold Washington’s 1983 mayoral campaign. The late Chicago political expert Paul Green used to tell the story about how Mayor Washington was duly impressed when only two voters in Trotter’s assigned precinct cast their ballots for one of the other mayoral candidates.

Trotter thought his big move to the Illinois General Assembly would happen in 1986, when then-Rep. Carol Moseley-Braun decided to run for lieutenant governor. He backed out of the race when the future U.S. Senator decided not to run statewide. Instead, Trotter wound up being elected to the House in 1988, after Moseley-Braun was elected Cook County Recorder of Deeds.

The new legislative district map in 1991 forced him to run for the Senate the following year, where he has served ever since.

Trotter turned out to be far more suited to the Senate (he often chafed under House Speaker Michael J. Madigan’s rule) and quickly became an indispensable member of Senate Democratic Leader Emil Jones’ team. When Jones was elected Senate President, Trotter’s power increased exponentially.

It’s no secret that Sen. Trotter and I are longtime friends. I first met him in 1990, not long after I started writing about Illinois politics.

I don’t have a lot of “real” friends in this business because it can cause too many problems. Politicians inevitably do stupid things, so being their friend can put you in the middle of sticky situations.

I’ve made an exception for Trotter because, frankly, he’s one of the most interesting people I’ve ever known in my life. Yeah, he’s made his share of mistakes, some bigger than others. But he’s owned up to all of them; and to my mind, that’s what really matters.

He has a biting sense of humor powerful enough to slay a man.

He’s well read with a broad knowledge and appreciation of music, and he loves the experience of travel. Except for the whole politician thing, he’s the type of person I like to hang with. He’s also helped me broaden my own horizons by showing me places on Chicago’s South and West sides that I wouldn’t usually just stroll into as a white guy from Kankakee.

The man is always trying to learn something new, which is something I try to do on a daily basis, so I greatly appreciate that about him.

I thought it was a little weird when Trotter took control of the legislative talks on state craft-beer regulations, but he mastered the subject matter and ably led the meetings. He wanted to try tackling a topic outside of his usual wheelhouse and he succeeded.

To me, good legislators (and good people) are always trying to learn new things and move outside their comfort zones. Sen. Trotter has been a darned good legislator and I think he’s a good person. I’m going to miss him.

OPINION

The Regional News

RICH MILLER

The mad, mad, mad, mad world of Tomasulo WGN’s award-winning sports announcer and very own standup comedian Pat Tomasulo launched his new weekly comedy show this weekend, “Man of the People,” and it teams with belly laughs and a lot of original humor, a rarity in late night talk shows.

Tomasulo joined WGN’s morning news and entertainment team in 2005, absorbing the comedic talents of WGN’s Morning News anchors and comics themselves, Larry Potash and Robin Baumgarten.

It’s not surprising that he has launched his own show, “Man of the People” on WGN-TV, broadcast every Saturday night at 10 p.m. with a studio audience. As Tomasulo points out in his funny bits, he revives the in-studio audience action that made WGN so famous for more than four decades, ending in 2001 with the retirement of Bozo’s Circus.

What aging, addled and Alzheimer-stricken Baby Boomer hasn’t yearned for that kind of refreshing humor, while grouping for a freshly wrapped absorbent Fitrights or Depends underwear? Fitrights?

Late nights? Who remembers differences while poring through reams of pages from the latest updates on Medicare and Social Security regulations and forms?

WGN’s Mornings with Potash and Baumgarten have given news reporting a very important infusion of badly needed humor, making it one of the country’s

This newspaper is dedicated to the memory of those who gave their lives to protect America’s freedom of the press, whenever and however it may be threatened.

Ray Hanania is an award winning columnist, author and former Chicago City Hall reporter. Email him at rghanania@ gmail.com.

‘Weakening’ libel laws not the right tactic — for anyone

By Gene Policinski

12243 S. Harlem Ave., Palos Heights, IL 60463 and additional post offices.

© Entire contents copyright 2015 Southwest Regional Publishing

most entertaining and fun-to-watch news broadcasts in America. Tomasulo suckled on years of Potash and Baumgarten puns and today fits into that equation like a hotdog without ketchup.

Tomasulo’s tenure at WGN has been a rehearsal for his own show, ever since joining Potash and Baumgarten, who are always encouraging the young grad from the College of New Jersey. Any school of higher learning named after the state that gave us Jersey Shore, JWoww, Vinny and Snooki has to offer the promise of true everyday humor embedded deep in the bowls of American comedy.

I love the show. I’m tired of all the political nastiness that has swallowed late night and weekend comedy. It doesn’t take much talent to bash President Donald Trump into worn-out jokes and one-liners.

Stephen Colbert is the worst. At Least Jimmy Kimmel adds a personal sympathetic tear-jerker every-once-in-awhile to break up the monotony of Trump bashing.

Tomasulo’s humor is original and funny.

INSIDE THE FIRST AMENDMENT

Making it easier to sue people for libel is not a good idea — for our democracy in general, and even for President Trump and a few of his personal lawyers, in particular.

Trump has railed against existing legal protections, most recently following the publication of journalist Michael Wolff’s Rich Miller also publishes Capitol Fax, a daily political newslet- searing book “Fire and Fury: Inside the ter, and CapitolFax.com.

Trump White House.” Trump said he will take a “strong look” at the country’s libel laws because they are a “sham and a disgrace and do not represent American values and American fairness.”

Just hours earlier, Trump’s personal attorney Michael Cohen sued BuzzFeed Inc. and consulting firm Fusion GPS for defamation, claiming they had made unproven or erroneous allegations about him in a controversial “Russia dossier” Owned and operated by Southwest Regional Publishing Co. compiled by Fusion and later published by BuzzFeed.

Mark Hornung, Chief Operating Officer The laws that Trump wants to tinker The Business Side The News Side with are rooted in a 1964 U.S. Supreme Donna Brown, Sales Director Anthony Caciopo, Editor Court decision, New York Times v.

Monica Cotter, Finance Director Dermot Connolly, Reporter Sullivan, which protects critics of public Debbie Perrewe, Classified Manager Jeff Vorva, Sports Editor Mike Russell, Production Director Lauren Ziemann, Art Director officials, even if their offending speech Bonnie Hesik, Pre-press Manager Chuck Ingwersen, Designer contains error — as did the newspaper advertisement at the heart of that legal Southwest Regional Publishing dispute.

12243 S. Harlem Ave. Most certainly that decision and others Palos Heights, IL 60463 that followed it are not license to fabricate Phone: (708) 448-4000 and defame without concern. The Times v.

Fax: (708) 448-4012 Sullivan decision stakes out conditions in Website: www.theregionalnews.com which defamatory material is not protectemail: TheRegional@comcast.net ed: Material disseminated with “malicious intent” — that is, with the knowledge it Office hours: Monday-Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. is false — or with reckless disregard of Deadlines whether it was false or not.

Editorial: Noon, Saturday • Advertising: 5 p.m., Monday But absent those circumstances, the Subscription rates: Local, delivered by mail, $48 a year in advance. Out-of-State, $58 Court said, the need for a democracy to a year. Single copies, $1. Postmaster: Send address changes to THE REGIONAL NEWS, have an “uninhibited, robust and wide The Regional News cannot be responsible for the return of unsolicited material. USPS 419-260 Periodical postage paid at Palos Heights, IL 60463 and additional post offices.

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RAY HANANIA

He does a great comedic monologue called “The Voice of Reason.” Original humor, not a rip-off of internet political rantings, “The Voice of Reason” hit many issues that couch potatoes in America have been afraid to ask about. Like teenagers getting high by eating laundry soap pods. He gives audiences a badly needed “commonsense perspective” on everyday life that everyday people who are often forgotten in the national talk show jousting, can identify with and enjoy.

I have always been in love with WGN’s Morning News show with Potash and Baumgarten. They’re funny and they encourage everyone on their team to be funny, too. Naturally funny.

Tomasulo was nurtured in that environment with Potash’s and Baumgarten’s “mom and pop” comedy duo.

The show is filled with original skits, original comedy and comedy that you will enjoy for everyone, whether you support Trump or hate Trump, or whether you enjoy chewing Tide pods or just inhaling a doobie now and then.

You can view clips from “Man of the People” online at www.ManofthePeople. com.

open” discussion on matters of public interest requires that we accept that those discussions likely will contain “vehement, caustic and sometimes unpleasantly sharp attacks on government and public officials.”

“I consider [the book] a work of fiction,” Trump told reporters on Jan. 6, at a meeting at Camp David, Md. “The libel laws are very weak in this country. If they were strong, it would be very helpful.

You wouldn’t have things like that happen where you can say whatever comes to your head.”

Actually, the very point of the First Amendment’s protection for free speech and a free press is that we get to say “whatever” comes into our heads, with very few restraints, without fear of being prevented or punished by the government.

The Sullivan standard accepts inadvertent error in the effort to inform citizens on matters of public interest.

In response to Cohen’s lawsuit, a spokesman for BuzzFeed said that “The dossier is, and continues to be, the subject of active investigations by Congress and intelligence agencies. It was presented to two successive presidents, and has been described in detail by news outlets around the world. Its interest to the public is obvious.” The spokesman added, “This is not the first time Trump’s personal lawyer has attacked the free press, and we look forward to defending our First Amendment rights in court.”

Cohen relies, ironically, on the very standard in Sullivan that Trump would alter or remove: That the material in the dossier was published with knowledge that it was false.

As has been noted by many experts following Trump’s multiple threats to change libel law, it isn’t possible to make changes

with the stroke of a presidential pen, or even an act of Congress. Libel laws are state laws, so changes would have to take place in 51 sets of statutes (including Washington, D.C.), through a Supreme Court decision, or through constitutional changes. Neither is likely.

The best tactic in defending Trump against the criticism in Wolff’s book or the allegations in the Fusion dossier may well be to use the power already in the hands of Trump and his cohorts: The power public officials have to respond effectively to negative and damaging comments (which is so much more than that of non-celebrities, that in Times v. Sullivan public officials — and later all public figures — were granted less protection against such comments).

Clearly, Trump and his legal representatives have plenty of means to counter virtually any allegation, including Tweet storms, via sympathetic news outlets, and from the daily platform of the White House briefing room.

In other words, Trump can use the “Bully Pulpit” that is the White House — and, if you will, the “Bully Tweets” that he relies on so much. He shouldn’t try to silence the news media for reporting what the public needs to know, but instead encourage journalists to report the claims on all sides, including his own.

Trump needs to join in the “uninhibited, robust and wide open” discussion that is democracy’s lifeblood, rather than trying to silence others in this ongoing national conversation.

Gene Policinski is president and chief operating officer of the Newseum Institute. He can be reached at gpolicinski@ newseum.org, or follow him on Twitter at @genefac.

Letters Policy The Regional News encourages letters to the editor. Local content is strongly suggested and will be given first consideration. Letters must be signed and the name of the writer will be published. Include your telephone number for verification purposes. Limit letters to no more than 350 words. We reserve the right to edit letters.

E-mail letters to: theregional@comcast.net

BUSINESS

The Regional News

Thursday, January 25, 2018

5

FINANCIAL FOCUS

Put a trusted ‘quarterback’ on your financial team On February 4, the eyes of most of the country — and much of the rest of the world — will be on Minneapolis, site of Super Bowl LII. As a fan, you can admire the way Super Bowl quarterbacks direct their teams. But as an investor, you can learn something from the big game by putting together your own team to help you achieve your financial goals — and you may find it helpful to have your own “quarterback.”

Who should be on your team?

Your financial strategy will involve Photo by Anthony Caciopo investments, taxes and estate planning, so you will likely need a financial advisor, a tax professional Susan and John DeKoker, longtime residents of Palos Heights, chat with Anthonia Iwobi of Salad Bowl Creations and an attorney. Ideally, your fibefore making a purchase at last Saturday’s Winter Farmers Market. The next market will be held from 8 a.m. to nancial advisor — the individual noon Feb. 17 in the Orchard Room of the Palos Heights Parks and Recreation building, 6601 W. 127th St. with the broadest view of your financial situation — should serve as the quarterback of this team.

And, just as a quarterback on a football team must communicate clearly with his teammates, so will your financial quarterback need to maintain consistent contact with the other team members.

Let’s look at a couple of basic examples as to how this communication might work.

First, suppose you are self-employed and contribute to a Simplified Employee Pension (SEP) IRA. Because your contributions are made with pre-tax dollars, the

Still the season for farmers market in Palos Heights

COMINGS & GOINGS

Woman realizes dream with Oy’s Thai Cuisine restaurant BOB BONG

For Oy Hunsaker, opening her own restaurant is a dream come true.

Oy and her husband Bryan opened Oy’s Thai Cuisine last week at 1880 Lincoln Highway in New Lenox, across the street from Lincoln-Way Central High School.

“It’s something she talked about for many, many years,” said Bryan Hunsaker.

While this is their first attempt at running a restaurant, the New Lenox couple did their homework, talked to other restaurateurs and decided to take the plunge and open their own place.

Hunsaker, a former hedge fund manager, said he takes care of the business side while his wife runs the kitchen.

“She’s definitely more important than I am,” he said.

“We wanted a small place to start out. Something simple,” Hunsaker said. Oy’s seats about 30.

Oy’s will feature authentic Thai specialties including appetizers, soups, stir fry, noodles and Thai curry.

Hunsaker said everything his wife makes is good, but added he especially likes her pad Thai, egg rolls and cashew chicken.

The restaurant held a soft opening last week, Hunsaker said.

“We’ve been well received,” he said adding that the restaurant has been working out some kinks in preparation for this week’s grand opening.

He said there had already been considerable take-out business.

Hunsaker said they were hoping to get some traffic from Lincoln-Way students.

“We have an after-school special for students,” he said.

Oy came to the United States from her native Thailand when she was in her early 20s and met her future husband attending church in Utah.

They have lived in the New Lenox-Mokena area for about 20 years and have a son at Lincoln-Way West High School.

Matthew Van Howe Edward Jones

more you put in, the lower your taxable income. (In 2018, the maximum amount you can contribute is $55,000.) Your financial advisor can recommend investments you can choose from to help fund your SEP IRA. Yet you will want your financial advisor to share all your SEP IRA information with your tax professional. When it’s near tax-filing time, your tax professional can then let you and your financial advisor know how much room you still have to contribute to your SEP IRA for the year, and how much you need to add to potentially push yourself into a lower tax bracket.

Now, let’s consider the connection between your financial advisor and your attorney — specifically, your attorney handling your estate planning arrangements. It’s essential that you and your financial advisor provide your attorney with a list of all your financial assets — IRAs, 401(k)s, investments held in brokerage accounts, insurance policies and so on. Your attorney

will need this information when preparing your important legal documents, such as your will and living trust — after all, a key part of your estate plan is who gets what. But it’s imperative that you and your financial advisor convey some often-overlooked details that can make a big difference in the disposition of your estate. For example, your financial advisor might suggest that you review the beneficiary designations on your IRA, 401(k) and life insurance policies to make sure these designations are still accurate in light of changes in your life — new spouse, new children and others.

These designations are meaningful and can even supersede the instructions you might leave in your will or living trust. Consequently, it’s important for you and your financial advisor to share this information with your attorney.

It can be challenging to meet all your financial objectives. But with the right team in place, and a quarterback to help lead it, you can keep moving toward those goals — and you might cut down on the “fumbles” along the way.

This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor.

FASHION CHAT

Beat the fashion spirit depression

Oy’s Thai Cuisine restaurant is now open in New Lenox.

Photo by Bob Bong

“We are very happy to be a part of this community,” Hunsaker said.

Oy’s is open from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday to Thursday, from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Friday and Saturday. It is closed on Sunday.

For information, call 815-4629000 or visit them online at https:// oysthaicuisine.com/. You can also find them on Facebook at Oy’s Thai Cuisine.

About a year ago, the chain took over the former Keystone Café at 4028 W. 147th St. in Midlothian.

Blueberry Hill was started more than 15 years ago and has locations in Aurora, Darien, Homewood, Homer Glen, LaGrange, Plainfield and Oak Brook.

EveFit holds grand opening

Anthony’s Coal Fired Pizza, which opened late last year in Orland Park, held its grand opening yesterday at 14205 S. LaGrange Road. The restaurant cooks all its food in ovens that are fueled with coal.

EveFit, a fitness center that caters to women, held its ribbon cutting last week at 16145 S. LaGrange Road in Orland Park.

The center will hold an open house grand opening for prospective members on Jan. 27.

For information, call 708231-8907 or visit their website at www.evefit.com. They are also on Facebook.

Blueberry Hill opens in Tinley Park Blueberry Hill Café continued its south suburban expansion with the recent opening of its ninth location in Tinley Park.

A ribbon cutting ceremony was held at yesterday at 9536 W. 79th St. in the former Egg & I restaurant with both the Orland Area and Tinley Park chambers of commerce.

The Tinley location opened in November and, like the others in the chain, serves breakfast and lunch and is open daily from 6 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Anthony’s to hold grand opening

Kim Stratton’s Kitchen opens at River Oaks Gospel singer and celebrity chef Kim Stratton has opened a second location of her restaurant in the food court at River Oaks Center in Calumet City.

Stratton hit the music scene in 1994 with the Grammy-nominated song “I’m in This Place.” Her musical success segued into a successful catering business in 2013.

She turned that success into the popular Kim Stratton Kitchen in Palatine in 2015. The eatery features Southern cuisine and soul food.

She opened a second location on Jan. 5 at River Oaks.

If you see a new business in town or wonder what happened to an old favorite, drop me a line at bobbong@hotmail.com.

Lux 131 Salon supports kids fighting cancer Lux 131 Salon and Day Spa in Palos Park is supporting children and teens fighting cancer.

In the spirit of giving, the salon hosted a holiday toy drive which accumulated more than 100 toys to benefit the Pediatric Oncology Treasure Chest Foundation (POTCF), a non-profit Orland Park-based organization which provides toys, gifts and gift cards to young cancer patients.

When asked about the toy drive, Iman Kanash, Lux 131 Salon and Day Spa owner said, “We wanted to give back to the community. I have several friends that have gone through cancer and I have seen how they struggled and there are many children that are struggling also.” Information about POTCF Supplied photo and its work can be obtained by Iman Kanash, Lux 131 Salon and Day Spa owner, displays donations in her Palos Park business for children and teens fighting cancer. calling 708-687-TOYS (8697).

Being dressed as a mischievous garden rabbit for events around Chicago for the better part of the week made it clear to me that stepping out of yourself is very freeing. We get comfortable in our routines, our habits, our style, what we do, how we make our decisions, and so on.

As we continue establishing where this new year will take us, it is nearly impossible to avoid ruminations on that hackneyed old “new year, new you” concept. Januarys can be rough, and perhaps like me, you are starving for quality vitamin D; pondering bitcoins, tax season, and government furloughs; and trying to reexamine your life.

As that distinctive mild misery of January — and February too, really, especially if you are single — permeates your day-to-day, why not just pile on the tough love?

We might as well get it out of the way now so as not to muddy up the characteristic joy, rainbows, and sunshine of springtime.

Take a judicious look at yourself and unravel those probing personal inquisitions. I assert that one’s shortcomings are both preventing successes and subconsciously wearing down one’s spirit, which in turn causes the depression of the “fashion spirit.” This is the hippy-dippy term I coined to represent the energy and level of zeal fueling the dressing of oneself. A healthy fashion spirit is vivacious and celebratory, which bolsters all manners of the wearer’s confidence. On the other hand, a malnourished fashion spirit offers only a dismal palette, perhaps based solely on necessity and certainly thirsts for individuality, expressiveness, artfulness and ingenuity.

Firstly, the proper diagnosing and resolving of personal struggles will be tumultuous. We must search for the matters hampering our success and development, unearthing our guilt and vulnerability. Your faith and religion may have slipped to insignificance.

Resentments and grudges may be toxins poisoning your family life or friendships. Perhaps you must address financial budgeting, the commitment to fitness, or the reduction in consumption of alcohol, drugs, or social media.

When these grander missions are determined and brought into action, your fashion spirit will finally have the reinforcement it needs to truly flourish. These new goals will incur changes in one’s personality and mindset, amplifying confidence in character and bringing about the desire to represent this newly defined, more confident person visually to the world. This is when the fashion spirit thrives.

You will confidently do away with garments that do not suit your physique or your lifestyle. Hone in on what works aesthetically and purge your closet of items you do not use or need. Do not give valuable closet space to just-incasers, duplicates or items that do

CAROLINE FOREMAN not make you feel beautiful or handsome, strong and empowered.

Resolve to be practical, smart and dignified. Devote the time and effort necessary to acquire quality pieces that will command respect in the workplace and invigorate your every day Love your body, and do not fear leaving that ruddy old comfort zone in favor of a creative endeavor.

It is helpful to make resolutions by examining your dressing tendencies. When you know your mornings are hectic, abandon those instances of half-awake sartorial settling, and instead do some simple planning ahead using the weather forecast and a little time to set aside your outfit before you go to sleep. More organization and planning here will trickle into effect in other aspects of your day, bringing the Zen of better time management and ease.

The results you see after these steps will demonstrate a “new you,” new confidence, new presentation and renewed fashion spirit.

Resolve to continue into 2018 in exquisite style.

Mortgage Rates Around the Area First Midwest Bank (as of January 22)

30-year fixed 15-year fixed 30-year fixed Jumbo

RATES APR POINTS 4.250 4.295 0 3.625 3.680 0 3.990 4.045 0

30-year fixed 15-year fixed 10-year fixed

RATES APR POINTS 4.125 4.146 0 3.625 3.662 0 3.750 3.803 0

30-year fixed 20-year fixed 15-year fixed

RATES APR POINTS 4.000 4.114 0 3.750 3.907 0 3.250 3.449 0

30-year fixed 20-year fixed 15-year fixed

RATES APR POINTS 4.125 4.2048 0 3.875 3.986 0 3.5 3.6425 0

United Trust Bank (as of January 16)

Prospect Savings Bank (as of January 23)

CNB Bank & Trust, N.A. (as of January 16)

All rates subject to change daily. Equal opportunity lenders.

6 Thursday, January 25, 2018

The Regional News

HEALTHY ANSWERS FOR LIFE

Curcumin for joint pain and much more I first wrote about the benefits of curcumin in this column several years ago. Since then it has become incredibly popular for helping with reducing pain and inflammation in the body, and rightly so. It really does work. New research is coming out all the time confirming its many benefits, which go far beyond just pain relief.

Curcumin, the active ingredient in the spice turmeric, has been said by many to be “the most anti-inflammatory herb on the planet.”

It is difficult for the body to absorb, however, and in the past, people needed to consume mass amounts of the strongly pigmented yellow spice to be able to get enough of that beneficial extract, curcumin, to make a difference. I love eating turmeric (turmeric is the yellow spice used in many curries), but ground turmeric root is generally only four percent curcumin, so supplements are the best way to go if you’re looking to get the benefits reported again and again in the scientific studies.

Even supplemental extracts of turmeric or curcumin can be difficult for the body to absorb, which is why there are very specific forms that we recommend. The company Solgar has a branded extract that they use which has been scientifically documented to be one hundred and eighty-five times better-absorbed than standard curcumin extracts.

If you’re interested, you can search on our website (passhealthfoods.com) for more information and the links to the study, or search on PubMed.gov for “oral bioavailability of curcumin from liquid micelles,” since I fully agree that it almost sounds too good to be true. Another nice thing about this Solgar curcumin extract is that it has been shown to stay active in the body for 24 hours after taking it. Most other turmeric extracts are metabolized much faster.

We are all about science at Pass Health Foods. Sometimes I think people have the idea that natural products, vitamins, and herbs are a bunch of “hippie nonsense,” but in our store, the products we recommend are scientifically backed by research. There are times when conventional pharmaceuticals are

CAROLYN JOHNSON

PassHealthFoods.com

necessary, but if you can find natural products that legitimately work, without the side effects of conventional medicines, it can be a wonderful thing.

So, back to curcumin. Studies have shown again and again its benefit for pain relief, finding it equal to commercially available pain medications and NSAID drugs, but without the strain those medicines have on the liver. Ibuprofen and other drugs definitely do help with pain, but they are not meant to be taken over and over again on a daily basis.

Curcumin is a great alternative. Rather than being hard on the liver, it can actually help with liver function.

In addition to pain relief, curcumin supplements have also been shown in research to have impressive results for reducing anxiety and depression. One study even found curcumin supplementation to be as effective as a prescription drug for depression, but without the side effects.

New research has also introduced curcumin as a possible aid to weight loss. One 30-day study followed people who were already on a diet and exercise regimen. They found an increased percentage of weight loss in the group who took curcumin, but even more than that was the reduction of body fat percentage for the people who took curcumin versus the placebo group. In 30 days, the group who used diet and exercise alone had a 0.70 percent reduction in total body fat, but the group who used curcumin had an average of 8.43 percent reduction in body fat. That’s a pretty significant difference!

Curcumin supplementation has also been linked to a reduction in several types of cancers. In the past, the poor absorption of curcumin supplements was a problem for

showing results in human trials, but that’s changing now with newly formulated extracts like Solgar’s Full Spectrum Curcumin, which have significantly increased the body’s ability to absorb the nutrient.

Curcumin has been shown to inhibit cancer cells, prevent tumor formation, as well as slow the progression of cancer. Research has shown that it can definitely be a helpful adjunct to traditional cancer therapies. As with everything, however, be sure to inform your physician of any natural products you are taking, especially during cancer treatment.

To sum up, while curcumin is best known for reducing joint pain and inflammation, it has many other scientifically documented benefits.

Not all turmeric or curcumin supplements are equal in how well they are absorbed, however.

At this time, the only curcumin product we truly recommend is Solgar’s Full Spectrum Curcumin, for the simple reason that it has been shown to be so much better-absorbed than any other. Since it’s a product we recommend so highly, we were able to work out a deal with the company to offer 25 percent off our Solgar curcumin on an everyday basis at Pass Health Foods. Stop by the store for more information. We’d love to help you further.

Carolyn Johnson is one of the knowledgeable associates at Pass Health Foods at 7228 W. College Dr. in Palos Heights. Feel free to stop by the store for more information or advice. The store’s website is www.passhealthfoods.com This column makes no claims to diagnose, treat, prevent, mitigate, or cure diseases with any advice or products. Any health-related information in this article is for educational purposes only.

The ultimate responsibility for your choices and their effect on your health are yours and before applying any therapy or use of herbs, supplements, etc., you should consult your health care provider.

PICK OF THE LITTER

Corneal epithelial lipid dystrophy can be a problem in older dogs DVM • Prairie StateVet.com

Dear Charles, The problem sounds like corneal epithelial lipid dystrophy, which is a common problem in older dogs. Considering that your question has to do with eyes I’d advise you to have a vet take a quick look to be sure, since you don’t get too many chances with eyes.

The cornea is the clear window of the eye. Epithelium refers to the top layer of cornea. Lipid means fat and dystrophy means, for this discussion, abnormal metabolism.

Corneal Epithelial Lipid Dystrophy appears as a pale, hazy spot or area on the cornea. The condition usually begins in the center of one of the eyes but typically becomes bilateral (both eyes) and spreads wider over time. The haze is actually a collection of tiny crystals of cholesterol and other fats just under the top layer of cells of the cornea. These crystals form when the amount of fat presented to the cornea in the tear film exceeds what the epithelial cells can metabolize.

High blood fat levels can increase the amount of fat in the tear film and inflammation or irritation to the eye; i.e., conjunctivitis allows surface blood vessels to leak serum (including the fat) into the tear film. Such irritation can also slow down the metabolism (removal) of fat in the film.

Low thyroid hormone and topical steroid eye drops also slow down the metabolism of the fat. Years ago, we were taught to dispense eye drops containing steroids to reduce ocular discomfort, not realizing that we were actually aggravating the situation.

Often more that one of the above causes is present. There are, however, some cases where

Orland Township health staff vaccinate a patient.

Supplied photo

Our upbringings and our experiences in the world have conditioned us to be embarrassed by our weaknesses and to hide them.

But people are happiest when they can be themselves. If you can be open with your weaknesses it will make you freer and will help you deal with them better. I urge you not to be embarrassed about your problems; recognize that everyone has them.

Ray Dalio in Principles

Supplied photo

Orland Twp. offers flu shots

Flu shots are available by apCorneal Epithelial Lipid Dystrophy in an Orland Park dog. pointment weekdays at Orland no cause can be found and these cases are attributed to a genetic disorder.

To investigate the cause several tests are performed. A baseline CBC (complete blood count) chemistry profile and thyroid panel should be performed. This blood sample should be taken after a fast of 8-12 hours fast to avoid accidently collecting blood which is temporarily full of fat following a snack or meal.

A complete eye exam, including a Schirmer tear test, should be performed to rule out reasons for irritation or inflammation such as low tear production, blink abnormalities, eyelash/eyelid irritation or allergic diseases. These conditions should be treated with the least amount of cortisone possible to avoid lowering fat metabolism.

Once any underlying conditions are controlled, we recommend topical medications such as cyclosporine or tacrolimus. These medications appear to alter the health of the corneal epithelial cells so that the deposition of crystals slows or stops. In about half the cases the medication helps the crystals dissolve.

My thanks to five-star Dr. Jackie Vernot of Veterinary Vision in Lisle for the use of her client handout used to prepare this article.

William Robert Blew, Jr. William Robert Blew, Jr., aged 90, of Palos Heights, IL, and Vero Beach, FL, passed away at home on January 11, 2018, surrounded by his family.

Born in Chicago, IL to William Robert (Bob) Blew, Sr. and Adele Binney Blew on March 20, 1927. He grew up on Chicago’s South Side and was a 1945 graduate of Morgan Park High School. Drafted to the U.S. Army in 1945 serving until 1947. He earned his degree from Purdue University in 1951 in chemical engineering and was a member of the Phi Delta Theta fraternity. While at Purdue, Bill wed Marilyn Whitehead of Blue Island, IL in 1950. They were married for 67 years until his death.

Employed for 18 years with Swift & Co. as a chemist and then as a manager in Swift’s industrial soap and chemical division, he started Blew Chemical Company in 1971.

Bill was raised to be of service to others. He earned the Eagle Scout as a teen and became a Boy Scout leader in Palos Heights, helping many others earn the rank of Eagle and receiving one of adult scouting’s greatest honors, the Silver Beaver. He served on the board of Metropolitan Family Services, was an elder and active member of the Palos Park Presbyterian Church and volunteered to help tutor school children through the Community Church in Vero Beach, FL. For 8 decades he traveled to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness between Minnesota and Canada to canoe and camp with Boy Scouts and with his family and many friends. During the late summer and fall of 1992, when he was 65 years old, he and his best friend, Bob Mains, traveled by canoe from Palos Heights, IL, to New Orleans, LA camping all the way. Not satisfied with this

epic 52-day, 1400 mile trip, two years later the two of them journeyed to the headwaters of the Mississippi River in Minnesota and paddled to Grafton, IL, where the Illinois River meets the Mississippi, so they could rightly claim to have traveled by canoe the entire length of the storied river.

Bill is survived by his wife, Lynn, and by his three daughters, Susan Blew (Dennis Puglisi) of Berkeley, CA, Betsy Blew-Ochoa (Rogelio Ochoa) of Palos Heights, IL, and Jane Blew Healy (Michael Healy) of Blue Island, IL, and 7 grandchildren, Gianmarco Puglisi, Jacoby Puglisi (Rachel McQueen), William Daniel Ochoa, Alexandra Ochoa Halleran (Ryan Halleran), William Healy, Kathleen Healy, and Genevieve Healy. He is also survived by his sister, Ann Blew McKenna (the late Thomas McKenna) of Lincoln, CA, and his brother, John Blew (Joan Nevin Blew) of Chicago, IL. The family is very grateful to the dedicated team of caregivers and to Great Lakes Caring Hospice who have supported and enabled Bill to remain in comfort at home during the last two years of his life.

A memorial service will be held at the Church of the Transfiguration at 12219 S. 86th Avenue in Palos Park on Saturday, February 10, 2018 at 10:30 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Friends of the Boundary Waters Wilderness at 401 N. Third Street, Suite 290, Minneapolis, MN 55401 or online at https:// salsa4.salsalabs.com/o/51407/ donate_page/main or to the charity of your choice.

Arrangements entrusted to Krueger Funeral Home, 13050 S. Greenwood Ave., Blue Island, 708-388-1300 www. kruegerfuneral.com

William Eugene ‘Liam’ Spellman

JOHN FLEMING Dear Dr. Fleming, My older Pug, Corkie, has white spots on his eyes where a contact lens would sit. It doesn’t bother him but the spots seem to be getting bigger. I can see them better when I shine a penlight sideways onto his eye. What do you think this could be?

Charles Palos Park

DEATH NOTICES

Township government headquarters, 14807 S. Ravinia, for adults age 19 and up.

Those age 18 and younger may receive the flu shot at the township’s monthly walk-in immunization clinics on Saturday, Feb. 10, from 9 to 11:30 a.m. or Tuesday, March 6, from 5:30 to 8

SENIOR NOTES Worth Twp. Seniors to see ‘Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat’ The Worth Township Senior Bus will take off to see “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dream Coat” Wednesday, March 7 at the Drury Lane Theatre, 100 Drury Lane, Oakbrook Terrace.

The bus will leave the Worth Township office at 11 a.m. The show begins at 1:30 p.m. and

William Eugene “Liam” Spellman, age 72.

Veteran U.S. Army.

Beloved husband of Peggy (nee Malone) for 47 years.

Loving father of Thomas, Sean and Colleen.

Cherished grandfather of Jack, Megan, Caitlin, Liam, Caroline, Emily, Kiley and Jimmy.

Dear brother of Judy Myers, Jimmy (JoAnne), Barbara, Michael (Sharon) and the late Thomas (Teri) Spellman.

Fond uncle to many nieces and nephews. Lifetime member of VFW Post 9773 Hometown and Elks Club of Oak Lawn.

William Eugene Spellman,

p.m. No appointment is needed for the walk-in immunization clinics.

The township health service provides a number of other services, including pneumonia shots, blood pressure screenings, glucose screenings, CPR classes, hearing and podiatry screenings, and more.

George M. Boerema For more information, call (708) Retired Sandburg High School 403-4222. teacher George M. Boerema, 90, died Jan. 8.

Mr. Boerema formerly lived in Orland Park and was residthe bus will arrive back at Worth ing in Conover, Township at approximately 5 p.m. Wisc. before his Tickets are $78 and include death. He was show ticket, lunch and transporta- a World War II tion. Lunch includes soup, choice Army veteran. of sautéed tilapia, herb roasted Survivors include his wife, Auchicken or bistro steak, dessert, drey; daughters, Sandra Beringer, coffee, hot or iced tea.

Sharryl Hagerman, Susan RosiRegistration is necessary and er, Joyce Peterson, Jennifer Toro payment is due upon registration. and Marcia Vander Laan; son, For more information and registra- John; 28 grandchildren and nine tion call (708) 371-2900, Ext. 28. great-grandchildren.

Skin care concerns?

or as he might prefer “Liam 134” A man who’s strength and integrity changed every room he entered. Faith. Family.

Friends. He lived it. His presence will be sorely missed, but he certainly ensured his impact will remain for generations.

Visitation Wednesday 3-9pm.

Funeral Thursday 9:15am from the Maher Funeral Home Tinley Park 7051 W. 171st St to St Alexander Church (7025 W. 126th St Palos Hts) for Mass at 10:00am.

Interment St. Mary Cemetery. To sign guestbook visit maherfuneralservices.com.

(708) 781-9212 Services were last Friday at Colonial Chapel, Orland Park.

Interment took place at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery.

Henry Juknaitis

Henry Juknaitis, 79, died Jan. 16 at his Palos Heights home.

Mr. Juknaitis, who was born in Lithuania, was employed for many years with the Clearing Bank-Chicago.

Survivors include his sister, Irene Lewis; two nieces, Audrey and Diane; and many relatives and friends.

Services were Friday from Palos-Gaidas Funeral Home to Sacred Heart Church. Entombment took place at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery.

Our medical staff

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18425 West Creek Dr. Suite F • Tinley Park 13401 S. Ridgeland Ave. Palos Heights

(708) 444-8300 | Fax (708) 444-8301 | www.mydermdocs.com

The Regional News

Thursday, January 25, 2018

STUDENT NEWS

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

Orland Park student named to dean’s list

ACROSS 1. Measurement (abbr.)

4. Returned material authorization (abbr.)

7. Sorting 12. Attribute 15. Poked holes in 16. Angers 18. Doc 19. MLB journeyman pitcher Dillon 20. Not don’t 21. Snubs someone 24. Where kids bathe 27. One might be in distress 30. Chair 31. Music industry honors (abbr.)

33. Dash 34. Owed 35. Caucasian language 37. One thousand (Span.)

39. Musical style drum and bass 41. Evergreen trees native to warm climates 42. Begin __: start fresh 44. Marshy outlets 47. A chicken lays one 48. Yemen’s largest city 49. Conversion rate 50. Single Lens Reflex 52. Atlanta rapper 53. Reduce the importance of 56. Faces of buildings 61. Something achieved 63. Distribute again 64. Tooth caregiver 65. 007’s creator

Theodora Anyanwu of Orland Park has been named to the dean’s list at Youngstown State University for the fall semester.

Anyanwu is studying biology pre-medical at YSU. The dean’s list recognition is awarded to full-time undergraduate students who have earned at least a 3.4 average for not less than 12 semester hours of credit in the semester.

Palos Park woman named to dean’s list Emily Gildea of Palos Park has been named to the fall dean’s list at Roger Williams University, Bristol, R.I. Full-time students who complete 12 or more credits per semester and earn a grade point average of 3.4 or higher are placed on the dean’s list that semester.

Palos Park man earns semester high honors John Beary of Palos Park earned fall semester high honors at the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay. Students who earn a 3.00 to 3.75 grade point average are awarded high honors. Students must be full-time earning 12 or more credits of graded course work.

DOWN 1. Skater Lipinksi 2. Data 3. Single step 4. Destroyed financially 5. Fail to interpret correctly 6. Fava d’__: tree found in Brazil 7. Vehicle 8. Limited 9. Old English 10. Aussie golfer Norman

Local students earn dean’s list honors Sydney Esser of Palos Park and Caroline Kruszecki of Orland Park were named to the fall dean’s list at The University of Rhode Island, Kingston.

Students must have completed 12 or more credits during a semester for letter grades with at least a 3.30 quality point average to be included on the dean’s list. Part-time students qualify with the accumulation of 12 credits with a 3.30 quality point average.

11. Job 12. Loose-fitting undergarments 13. Protected by balancing 14. Give up 17. Fifth note of a major scale 22. Extravagantly bright 23. Takes dictation 24. 19th letter of Greek alphabet 25. Rounded knob (biology) 26. French philosopher Pierre 28. Mothers 29. Dardic ethnic group 32. Supports the rudder 36. An ugly evil-looking old woman 38. Of a fasting time 40. Filled with passengers 43. Below the ribs and above the

hips 44. Binary-coded decimal 45. 51 is a famous one 46. Goes into a funk 51. Chief O’Hara actor 54. Videocassette recorder 55. Scored perfectly 56. Type of tree 57. __ Spumante (Italian wine) 58. Popular commercial “pet” 59. Supreme god of Ancient Egyptians 60. Room in a home 62. __ and behold

(Answers on page 8)

SUDOKU

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!

Orland Park woman earns dean’s list honors Jayna Kozlowski, a senior biology major, was named on the fall dean’s list at Monmouth College.

Kozlowski is the daughter of Teri Kozlowski of Orland Park and Raymond Kozlowski of Chicago.

A student is required to have a grade point average of 3.5 or higher on a 4.0 scale while enrolled as a full-time student to qualify for the dean’s list.

(Answers on page 8)

Orland Township awarding scholarships

Top: Kassidy Frayne (far right), 17, of Palos Park, shows photos she took at cemeteries from several states to (from left) Jacqueline Kalble, 26, of Chicago, and Kelly King, 27, of Chicago, at the Stagg High School Art Reception at McCord Gallery & Cultural Center, 9402 W. Creek Road in Palos Park, on Friday evening.

Center: Stagg High School students Zayna Ghouleh, 16, of Palos Hills (left) and Georgia Fry, 14, of Palos Park admire the works of art displayed at the Stagg High School Art Reception at McCord Gallery & Cultural Center.

Bottom: (From left) Janki Patel, 19, Sharika Patel, 20, and Riya Patel, 18, all Palos Park residents, look at artwork displayed at the Stagg High School Art Reception.

The Orland Township Scholarship Foundation will be awarding scholarships to Orland Township high school seniors from the 2018 graduating class, announced Paul O’Grady, Orland Township Supervisor and President of the Scholarship Foundation.

Applications for Orland Township Scholarships are available at the township office, 14807 S. Ravinia Ave., and on the township website at orlandtownship.org.

Completed applications must be postmarked or delivered to Orland Township by Friday, March 9.

The Orland Township Scholarship Foundation Board of Directors will award 22 scholarships totaling $16,500. Foundation

members unanimously agreed to award one $2,000 scholarship, eight $1,000 scholarships and thirteen $500 scholarships to Orland Township high school seniors.

The Orland Township Scholarship Foundation will select and award scholarship recipients based on a combination of the applicant’s leadership skills, dedication to community service, academic focus, participation in extracurricular activities, recommendations from school representatives, volunteer supervisors or employers, an assigned essay question response and any other pertinent information requested within the application. Students faced with hardships will be given strong

consideration.

Applicants must be residents of Orland Township, high school seniors graduating in 2018 and enrolled as a full-time student at a college, university, trade or vocational school.

For more information, call (708) 403-4222.

Also available through Orland Township are applications for the Township Officials of Illinois Scholarship. The Township Officials of Illinois will award seven $1,500 scholarships this year and that application is due to the Township Officials of Illinois

by Thursday, March 1. For more information, visit toi.org.

Trinity Christian College’s Kallemeyn Theater, 6601 W. College Drive, Palos Heights.

“Caring for Words, Caring for Worlds,” a collaborative arts performance with Ballet 5:8 and soprano Toni Esker, the Trinity Christian College Gospel Choir and the Trinity Theatre, will begin at 7 p.m. Feb. 2 and 6 p.m.

Feb. 3. General admission tickets

are $10 each. For details, phone (708) 597-3000.

Also at Trinity, the Illinois Philharmonic Orchestra will present “Expect the Unexpected,” an evening of Beethoven, at 7:30 p.m.

Feb. 10. Stefan Veselka will serve as guest conductor, as the IPO performs Coriolan Overture, Piano Concerto No. 1 with Winston Choi, guest pianist, and Symphony No. 7.

Feature Shepard H.S. jazz band at annual dinner-dance

and will include food, music provided by the jazz band students, a silent auction and an instant raffle.

Tickets for students cost $25 each and all proceeds will go toward the school’s award-winning band program, said organizers of the event.

Tickets and more information can be obtained by calling (708) 421-1190.

Wednesday, Feb. 28. This program is for children in kindergarten through fifth grades. Kids can find the book of their dreams this February. Players should grab a bingo sheet from the Youth Services desk starting Feb. 1 and match a bingo section to be entered into a drawing for a prize.

• Once Upon a Time Family Story Time is set for 10 a.m.

Thursday, Feb. 1 and Tuesday, Feb. 6. Children of all ages can drop in for stories, music and finger-plays to build pre-reading skills. They will sing songs that make them laugh, dance and move about.

• Microsoft PowerPoint begins at 6 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 1. Adults will learn to create slide shows.

Participants are required to have mouse skills. The class length is 90 minutes.

• Night Owl Story Time will be held at 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 1 Children birth through 47 months are invited with a parent or adult caregiver. Participants can join library staff for soothing tales and songs.

* Teen Inc. Service Club: Kids Who Care Project is set for 5 p.m.

Friday, Feb. 2. Teens in sixth through 12th grades looking to help the community can join the library’s service club in February.

We’re looking for teens to help out with our children’s book drive for the Kids Who Care Foundation.

The first day is Feb. 1 and library staff will be creating donation boxes and advertising. The second day is Wednesday, Feb. 28 and club members will be organizing and packing up the donations.

Participants have to make sure to sign up for both days. Each participant will receive an hour of service time. Snacks will be served. Registration is required with the teen’s Orland Park Public Library card.

• Buenas Noches is for children 4 and older with a parent or caregiver and will be held at 6:30 p.m. Friday, Feb. 2. Patrons can drop in and learn basic Spanish through stories and songs during this interactive story time.

Locals earn honors at Carthage College Eight local students are among 1,026 men and women who made the fall dean’s list at Carthage College, Kenosha, Wis. Earning the honor were Palos Heights residents Jeremy Atkinson and Kelly Evancich, as well as Orland Park residents Natalie Alfano, Roxanne Balaskas, Christina Gonzalez, Kevin Mahoney, Nicholas Messineo and Haley Tomchaney.

Dean’s list honors are accorded to Carthage students who achieve a minimum 3.5 grade-point average while carrying at least 14 credit hours during a semester.

7

Photos by Kelly White

McCord Gallery hosts Stagg HS students’ art through Feb. 2

SCHOOL NOTES Meet Jan. 31 for Dist. 118 kindergarten information District 118 has announced a tuition-based full-day kindergarten option for district residents.

Interested parents for the 20182019 school year are invited to attend an informational meeting to learn more and have questions answered by district administrators at 6 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 31 at

Palos East Elementary School, 7700 W. 127th St. in Palos Heights.

More information about the fullday kindergarten program can be obtained at www.palos118.org/ kindergartenregistration.

Fine arts coming to Trinity A celebration of the arts with Ballet 5:8 is set for Feb. 2-3 at

The Alan B. Shepard High School band boosters are sponsoring their annual dinner dance featuring the school’s jazz band on Feb. 9 at Gaelic Park, 6119 W. 147th St., Oak Forest.

Tickets cost $35 each for adults

LIBRARY NOTES Meet Louisa May Alcott at Palos Heights Public Library Several activities for the week ahead have been announced at the Palos Heights Public Library, 12501 S. 71st Ave. For more information or to register for a program, call (708) 448-1473.

• Patrons can meet Louisa May Alcott at 2 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 28.

Leslie Goddard portrays Alcott, a beloved author of children’s books that made her one of America’s most famous writers. The program draws from Alcott’s own diaries, books and letters to bring the passionate, humorous and progressive author to life.

• Toddler Art will be held at 10 a.m. Wednesday, Jan. 31. The program for 2- to 5-year olds invites parents to bring their young ones to the library for a story, songs and an art project. Smocks will be provided but patrons are advised to dress for a mess.

• Early Einsteins is set for 4 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 31 and is

for children 3 and older. Science can be fun, say the program organizers, especially when it involves messy, exploding, overflowing or melting ingredients. Parents can register for this hands-on exploration of different science concepts every month. This month’s attendees will be making symmetrical snowflakes.

• Several clubs meet each Tuesday at the library, including the Needle Club (for knitting and crocheting) from 10 a.m. to noon, Scrabble Club from 1 to 3 p.m. in the Conference Room and the Mahjong Club from 1 to 4 p.m.

Participants are asked to register in advance because space is limited.

Orland Park Public Library to feature artist More than a dozen events are coming up at the Orland Park Public Library, 14921 S. Ravinia Ave. For more information or to register for a program, call (708) 428-5100.

• Reading bingo will be played from Thursday, Feb. 1 through

Photo by Joe Boyle

WHATIZIT? The clue for this week’s Whatizit photo (above) is: Towers above.

Send your responses with your name and hometown by noon Monday to thereporter@comcast.net.

We had three readers who came up with the correct answer to last week’s photo quiz. Palos Heights resident Valerie Kuhl was the first to respond and she knew it was St. Alexander School, 7025 W. 126th St., Palos Heights. She mentioned that the school building windows could be seen in the photo, along with an air conditioner. Ron Wagenhofer, of Palos Park, also knew it was St. Alexander School. Oak Lawn resident Steve Rosenbaum also knew this was St. Alexander School, which he pointed out is the “home of the Raiders.”

St. Alexander was founded in June of 1959 with the appointment of the Rev. Joseph Hanton by Archbishop Albert Cardinal Meyer. Hanton selected the name “St. Alexander” in honor of the third century pope and his own deceased father and brother who bore the same name.

8 Thursday, January 25, 2018

The Regional News

Feb. 1 event will raise funds for COMMUNITY NOTES accessible ball field in Orland

A ladies’ night out fundraising event will be held from 4 to 8 p.m. Feb. 1 at the Orland Park Civic Center to raise awareness and financial support for Stack’s OPBaseball4All Foundation.

The foundation is led by Zachary Stack who is on a mission to build a baseball field that is accessible to everyone. The organization was established when Zachary and his mother, Tammy Stack, learned there was no field in Orland Park that accommodates physically and mentally impaired people.

The event will feature wine from Cooper’s Hawk, hors d’oeuvres from Gatto’s and Papa Joe’s, a raffle for a weekend at Lam-

berson Guest House in Galena, massages and mini-manicures, psychic and tarot card readings, clothing, essential oils, jewelry and more.

“I know how much I enjoy and appreciate what playing baseball brings to my life,” said Zachary. “I just think that same love of the sport should be available to everyone, regardless of their physical or mental abilities.”

Stack, an Orland Park resident and sophomore at Marist High School, is hoping that with the assistance of the entire community, his foundation will eventually be able to build the baseball field at the currently unutilized property adjacent to the village’s

Parks Department Administration Building along West Avenue.

“We hope that the women of the community will come out for a relaxing evening of pampering, shopping and wine while supporting this great cause,” said Tammy Stack. “We hope that everyone has a chance to come by to support Zack’s cause and have some fun at the same time.”

Admission to the event is free and guests are encouraged to bring a friend. ​More information about the efforts of the foundation and the Feb. 1 fundraising event can be obtained at by visiting opbaseball4all.org.

Email inquiries can be sent to opbaseball4all@gmail.com.

MOVIE REVIEW

Liam Neeson’s ‘The Commuter’ rises above lackluster January films BRIAN LAUGHRAN train moving at a reasonable speed.

The intimacy and mundanity at play here is what I liked. As opposed to last year’s “Murder on the Orient Express” (directed by Kenneth Branagh), which loved its actors and production design more than its central mystery, Collet-Serra directs with a firm and authoritative style, but always keeps us engaged wondering who Prynne is. He keeps the drama small and thus keeps it urgent.

But the faster Neeson must race against the clock and the bigger the web of mystery is revealed to be, the shakier the movie becomes. At one point the train derails (not a spoiler, it was in the trailer) and Neeson is jumping between cars as they run off the tracks and explode.

I cared much less about those scenes than I did of Neeson interrogating and getting into close-quartered fights with passengers. They felt more real and more intense. Neeson as an actor engaging with a very well-cast ensemble of mostly unknowns is far more entertaining than a CGI replication of Neeson leaping around like Batman with flames in the background.

Still, those scenes are so few and far between that I am still recommending the picture. The script is pretty tight — though if you can’t guess the twist of who the bad guy has been the whole time, you really need to watch more movies — and moves at a brisk pace.

People who enjoyed Netflix’s 2017 series “The Crown”, which follows Queen Elizabeth II’s reign, may enjoy a presentation about Winston Churchill to be given at 7 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 14 in room 104 at Orland Park Public Library, 14921 S. Ravina.

Daniel Myers, presenter and chief executive officer of the Churchill Centre, will talk about Churchill’s life. Sir Winston Churchill was a British writer, military leader, statesman, and most notably, the elected Prime Minister of Great Britain from 1940 to 1945 and 1951 to 1955. This presentation focuses on Churchill’s leadership principles using the words and actions of this great wartime leader. Myers gives his take on Churchill, aided by rare photos, Churchill’s writings, and speeches given by the former Prime Minister of Great Britain.

“With the rise in interest in the British monarchy since the announcement of the royal wedding between Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, we thought this was a great time to bring in a British history presenter,” said Head of Outreach Kelly Cuci.

For more information, call (708) 428-5100. The library is open from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and 1 to 5 p.m. Sunday.

Lemont artists exhibit works

timeframe, but advance notice is required.

Participants should dress for the weather and hiking in natural terrain. No experience is necessary and tools and guidance are provided. This qualifies for community service hours and is intended for those at least 8 years old. Adults must accompany minors.

For more information, call Pat Hayes at (708) 220-9596 or visit the Orland Grassland Volunteers Facebook page.

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will be getting updates from task groups on birding, seeding strategy and shrub project plans.

Refreshments will be served.

For more information, call (708) 220-9596.

Palos Park Seniors Club to meet Senior citizens are welcome to attend the meetings of the Palos

Park Senior Club, held the second Monday of each month at the Recreation Center, 8901 W. 123rd Street. Lunch, by reservation, is served at noon, with a program after.

In February, magician Jeff Bibik will entertain. In March, guest speaker Kevin Korst will recall the tornado that struck Oak Lawn in 1967.

Call Marie at (708) 480-4103 for more information.

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The volunteer Habitat Rescue Team of the Orland Grassland organization is looking for people who love nature, hiking into the prairie wilderness and helping bring our prairie ecosystem to vibrant good health.

The group meets from 9 a.m. to noon on the second and fourth Saturday of the month, year-round, at the parking lot on 167th Street just west of LaGrange Road.

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Orland Habitat Rescue Team seeking volunteers

The Lemont Artists Guild Members’ 25th Anniversary Show is running through Feb. 25 at Lemont Center for the Arts, 1243 State Street, Unit 101, Lemont.

A reception will be held Sunday, Feb. 11, from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m.

The Lemont Center for the Arts hours are noon to 4 p.m. Fridays, Puzzle on Page 7 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturdays and noon to 4 p.m. Sundays.

The exhibit includes paintings, photography, fiber and jewelry.

Many items are for sale. The Lemont Artists Guild is a place for people to share and learn about many art forms. The Guild meets on the third Wednesday of the month at the Homer Township Public Library, 14320 W. 151st St., Homer Glen.

For more information, call Liz Popp Connelly at (815) 341-1145.

CLUB ACTIVITIES Orland Grassland Volunteers to host quarterly meeting

Supplied photo

Orland Grassland Volunteer Norm Solliday spends a winter’s day healing nature with the Orland Grassland Habitat Rescue Team.

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Well, dear reader, normally this is where I would say we are trapped. Trapped in the cinematic doldrums — the dreaded desert of quality that is mid-January. The last of the Oscar hopefuls have already been thrust. The early blockbusters and comedies that pervade the spring have yet to be sprung. But one hero, for the last decade, has been fighting against that trend. This hero: Liam Neeson.

In what is, to my mind at least, one of the strangest career reinventions — Oscar-nominated actor to a badass lion in winter — Neeson’s entry into the genre have often pleased (i.e. “Taken,” “Unstoppable,” and “Non-Stop”), though some have proved utterly confounding (see — or rather, don’t see — “Taken 2” and “Taken 3”). Luckily, his latest, “The Commuter” (directed by Jaume Collet-Serra) is a firm entry into the pleasing category.

Neeson plays Mike MacCauley, an insurance broker who loses his job just as his son is about to go off to college. The family is living paycheck-to-paycheck and losing his job now is a devastating blow to their present and future.

But when a mysterious stranger (Vera Farmiga) sits next to the beleaguered Mike on the same train ride home he’s been taking for decades, he gets a second chance at life. She offers him $100,000 to find the one person on the train that doesn’t belong — other than herself, of course. This person has a bag and answers to the name of Prynne; those are the only clues he’s given. The rest is up to him to deduct. That task should be impossible for an insurance broker, but Mike has a particular set of skills (He is Liam Neeson, after all….) as a former detective.

Unsurprisingly, “The Commuter” feels smaller than many of the Neeson action pictures. He’s not open-hand throat punching all of Europe as he did in the “Taken” pictures. Nor is he globetrotting across vast distances in a race against time. Rather, he’s racing up and down the aisles of a commuter

Churchill Centre’s CEO to talk about former wartime prime minister

SPORTS The Regional News • The Reporter

Ken Karrson, Sports Editor • sports@regionalpublishing.com Jeff Vorva, Sports Editor • sports@regionalpublishing.com

Thursday, January 2018 Thursday, March 25, 5, 2015

Southwest Section Southwest • Section•2, Page 1 2, Page 1

Quite a hockey prodigy Murphy, 15, is playing at an incredibly high level

S

o, last Thursday a small group of reporters was talking to a sophomore high school hockey player.

She said, “I’m focusing on my club team right now — we’re hoping to win a national championship in March.’’

Probably 999 times out of 1,000 I don’t think there is anything odd about a statement like that.

Talented players on talented teams shoot for national championships.

That happens in all sports.

But what seemed intriguing to me is when and where this statewas said.

JEFF VORVA ment Evergreen Park’s Abbey Making the Murphy, a sophomore at Mother Extra Point McAuley High School, had just been honored by her school with a golf cart parade down the hallMore on Abbey ways of the Chicago school and Murphy and her was sporting a shiny gold medal celebration: after coming home from Russia Page 4 a champion. Murphy, 15, was a member of the USA U18 team that won the gold in the International Ice Hockey Federation Women’s World Championships in Dmitrov earlier this month.

She had just played against some of the best 16-, 17- and 18-year olds in the world, and now she’s getting geeked up playing for the Chicago Mission.

And she hopes to qualify for what seems to me to be a little ol’ national championship after what she’s been through.

Not many players get to go to nationals and have it be a step down in competition.

But, then again, not many players get to the level Murphy has gotten to.

She’s just 15. Playing against 18-year-olds. From other nations. And scoring goals.

See VORVA, Page 4

Photo by Jeff Vorva

Mother McAuley sophomore Abbey Murphy, an Evergreen Park resident, shows the gold medal that she won representing the United States 18U team earlier this month.

Photo by Jeff Vorva

Oak Lawn senior Dan Lillard reaches for the ball Friday night against Richards. The Spartans are within reach of winning their first conference title since 1983.

Rare title within reach

Oak Lawn is in the thick of conference race after win over Richards

By Jeff Vorva Sports Editor

There it is on the East wall of the Oak Lawn gym for all to see: A bunch of boxes indicating all of the conference titles Oak Lawn athletic teams have won.

In the boys basketball box, it reads: “1967 1971 1979 1983”.

The Spartans haven’t won a league title since guys such as Randy Stanick and Tom Baxa were helping the team to a SICA West title. They have never won a South Suburban Red title, as that conference was established in 2006.

It’s been a long dry spell.

“We’re very aware of that,” Oak Lawn coach Jason Rhodes said.

The Spartans put themselves in a good position to end that after beating crosstown rival Richards, 57-52, in a home game Friday night. Heading into this week’s action, Shepard and Richards were on the top of the hill with 5-3 marks, while Oak Lawn is 4-3.

Senior Adem Osmani scored 15 of his 23 points in the fourth quarter to help with the victory. He added 10 rebounds and five assists.

He also knows about the conference title drought and wants that to end.

SOUTH SUBURBAN CONFERENCE RED STANDINGS Through Jan. 21: Shepard ..................................... 5-3 Richards ..................................... 5-3 Oak Lawn ................................... 4-3 Reavis ........................................ 3-4 Evergreen Park ......................... 3-5 Eisenhower ................................ 1-6 Argo ............................................ 0-8 Note: Records include crossover games with SSC Blue teams.

“That’s been the goal since I got here,” he said. “We’re in a good position now.’’

Last year, Oak Lawn broke a long losing skid to Richards with a 66-64 victory, thanks in part to Osmani’s tip-in with 1.6 seconds left at Richards to close the regular season. It denied the Bulldogs their 11th league title in 12 years and allowed Evergreen Park to win its first conference crown since 1994.

After Friday’s game, some Oak Lawn fans stormed the court for a celebration.

Which game was more exciting?

“Honestly, both,” Osmani said.

“I’m just glad we could beat them two years in a row. Oak Lawn has not

Photo by Jeff Vorva

While Oak Lawn fans stormed the court, senior Spartan Adem Osmani stormed the stands to celebrate Friday’s victory over crosstown rival Richards with family members. Osmani had 23 points in the game.

had a great record against Richards and I wanted to end that. I want us to be the best team in Oak Lawn.

“We knew Richards was good and it was going to be close. But when you get to the fourth quarter, it’s winning time.’’

“This year’s game was more important,” Rhodes added.

Sophomore Sami Osmani added

13 points for Oak Lawn, which is 12-6 overall. Trevon Jones had 22 points and sophomore Paul Zilinskas added 11 for Richards (7-11 overall).

The Spartans were scheduled to visit Bremen in its final crossover game against SSC Blue foes on Tuesday and hosts Evergreen Park See OAK LAWN, Page 3

BOYS BOWLING SECTIONALS

Area is sending a talented trio to O’Fallon McCarthy is first CC boys bowler to qualify for state

By Jeff Vorva Sports Editor

Three-sport athlete Matt McCarthy became the first male bowler in Chicago Christian history to qualify for the Illinois High School Association state tournament. He’ll join junior Zach McCormick of Evergreen Park and sophomore Matt LaBonte of Richards at the event, which takes place Friday and Saturday at St. Clair Bowl in O’Fallon.

McCarthy, who was an all-conference football player in the fall and was on the Knights’ baseball team that finished third in the state in Class 2A in the spring, nearly won the sectional title. He led the field at Laraway Lanes in New Lenox on Saturday after three games with a 723 but slipped in the fifth game with a 159 to finish second with a 1,352. Lincoln-Way Central’s Alex Nolan was the

champ with a 1,364.

“It was my third time making it to sectionals and it was my last chance to go to state,” he said.

STATEMENT “I figured I shouldn’t be nervous because I’ve been there before. I GAMES was bowling pretty well the whole year. I’ve been practicing my butt off the whole time. So I felt pretty confident about my chances.’’

Knights coach Andy Andrew said his daughter, Brianna, was the first girl to qualify for state at the school as she made it down in 2010, 2011 and 2012.

Andrew’s advice to McCarthy is to start out strong like he did Saturday.

See BOWLING, Page 2

Chicago Christian’s Matt McCarthy

Richards’ Matt LaBonte

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2

Section 2 Thursday, January 25, 2018

The Regional News - The Reporter

A WILD WEEK IN AREA PRO SOCCER

Who is coming, leaving and staying in Chicago

By Jeff Vorva Sports Editor

In one of the wildest offseason weeks in Chicago soccer history, the Fire and Red Stars wheeled and dealed and drafted to the point where fans heading to Toyota Park this season are going to need a program to tell who is who on these two teams.

Some big names are gone. Some new players will replace them. It’s not easy to sort through all of this and decide if these moves were good ideas or not. But here are some of those who are coming and leaving and, oh yes, a big name who is staying.

Leaving the Fire

David Accam: One of the top goal scorers for the Fire over the past three years, the man known as “King David” was shipped to Philadelphia Friday for a combined $1.2 million in allocation money.

In 78 Major League soccer matches with the Fire, he scored 33 goals and had 15 assists.

Though he had some issues with coach Veljko Paunovic not naming him an All-Star last year, Accam was re-signed by the team and Fire General Manager Nelson Rodriguez said he had no immediate plans to part ways with Accam until Philadelphia showed great interest.

“In order to advance the building of our championship program and our game style a bold move was required,” Rodríguez said. “The assets we acquired give us the opportunity to accelerate toward that goal with greater flexibility. Philadelphia got a wonderful person and a player their fans will adore. We appreciate all of David’s efforts and wish him well.

“There is an element of risk with this trade. But we did what we felt was necessary.’’

Rodriguez said is hoping to add an international attacker or two with the money.

Matt Lampson: The goalie who beat cancer and became a great ambassador for the team and a pretty solid player was traded Friday to Minnesota along with $175,000 and the 15th SuperDraft pick for the fifth pick in the draft.

Jorge Bova: The Fire and the backup goalie to Lampson parted ways Thursday to allow him to return to Uruguay. So the Fire will be on the lookout for a new net minder.

Goalie Matt Lampson is heading to Atlanta.

Photo by USA Today Sports Images

Photo by Jeff Vorva

Popular Fire standout David Accam was traded to Philadelphia on Friday.

Coming to the Fire

Rafael Ramos: The Fire traded away allocation money to Orlando City for this 23-year-old defender, who played in 39 MLS matches and notched five assists.

He is under contract for 2018 with an option for 2019.

Jon Bakero: Chicago nabbed him with the fifth pick in the SuperDraft and the Wake Forest star scored 16 goals and 14 assists and was the ACC Offensive Player of the Year his senior season.

Rodriguez said he could fit in nicely with Nemanja Nikolic, the MLS’s Golden Boot winner with a team-record 24 goals for the Fire in 2017.

Mo Adams: The Fire used some money to trade up with Real Salt Lake for the 10th pick and grabbed the Syracuse defensive star and member of the 2018 Generation adidas class. Rodriguez describes him as a “Bull Terrier.’’

Diego Campos: The Fire grabbed this Clemson star in the second round — 38th overall. He had 23 goals and 22 assists in 81 matches for the Tigers.

Elliot Collier: In the third round, the Fire picked up the Loyola University standout from New Zealand who had 15 goals and 11 assists in 69 games.

Josh Morton: The University of California defender came to the Fire in the fourth round.

Staying with the Fire

Bastian Schweinsteiger: Prior to Friday’s flurry of activity, the biggest news out of Fire camp was on Jan. 17, when the team announced the German star re-signed for 2018.

“Last year was special moment of my career,” he said. “But it felt incomplete without a trophy. But

Photo by Jeff Vorva

German star Bastian Schweinsteiger re-signed with the Fire for another season.

I’m sure we can create another memorable season with the support of our great fans. I love this city, sport and winning.’’

Leaving the Red Stars

Christen Press: In a three-way trade with Houston and Sky Blue, one of the team’s most recognizable players was dealt and will head to Houston. Press, a U.S. Women’s National Team member, had 36 goals and six assists for the Red Stars in 62 games.

“For three and a half years, Christen did everything we asked her to do,” Red Stars coach Rory

Dames said. “We can’t thank Christen enough for her time here, but we had run our course together and it was mutually agreed it was time.’’

Jen Hoy: She was shipped to Sky Blue in the deal and was on the Red Stars’ inaugural National Women’s Soccer League team and played almost 3,300 minutes at forward for the team. She had 15 goals and 10 assists in 77 games for Chicago.

Coming to the Red Stars

Sam Kerr: Sky Blue’s talented forward came to Chicago in the three-team deal and she won the

FOCUS ON AREA COLLEGES

Sports Editor

Trinity Christian College’s Lauren Stokes went over the 1,000-point mark for her career and her women’s basketball teammates tied a school record with 31 steals in a 76-41 victory over Trinity International University on Saturday.

Celina Wanta had eight steals, Katie Moran six and Breanna Toppen five.

Stokes is the third player for the Trolls to pass the 1,000-point mark this season. Ally Giampapa and Wanta did it earlier in the season.

Men’s volleyball: The Trolls opened the season 1-1 at the Maranatha Baptist Triangular, beating the hosts in three sets but losing to Mt. Mercy in four. Eddie Binion and Zach Fitch each had 10 kills in the victory.

Moraine Valley

Women’s basketball: Moraine dropped a Jan. 16 game against McHenry County College as the Cyclones lost 77-73. Kristin McGee led the team with 27 points, including 21 in the opening half. Ashley Hunter had 24 points and Creighton Fed, who was battling the flu, had 13 points, 12 rebounds three blocked shots and three steals in 24 minutes of work.

Men’s basketball: The Cyclones

whipped McHenry County College, 82-62 on Jan. 16 as David Gray popped in 23 points. Two days later, they beat Lake County, 83-75 as former Evergreen Park star Mike Drynan had 17 points, 17 rebounds and four blocks.

Softball: All full-time Moraine Valley students interested in playing softball can attend tryouts from 10 a.m. to noon Saturday in the Building G gym. Athletes need to have a physical before tryouts. For more information or any questions, contact Coach Scott Sobol at 708-415-7584 or ssobol4@ gmail.com.

Pack the Place: The school will host a Pack the Place night at 5:15 on Feb. 22 for both Cyclones’ basketball teams when they host Prairie State College.

The teams will play their final home games of the season, the cheerleading team will perform halftime routines and there will be drawings and giveaways.

St. Xavier

Women’s basketball: The Cougars, ranked fourth in the nation, beat No. 18 St. Francis in Joliet, 62-51, on Jan. 17 and followed up with an 89-81 win over No. 17 Olivet Nazarene Saturday in Bourbonnais.

Kara Krolicki scored 18 points against St. Francis while Brittany Collins had 30 against Olivet. The Cougars entered this week 17-2 overall

Bowling

Continued from Page 1 “Like with the girls tournament, the place is packed and there are going to be a lot of good bowlers,” Andrew said.

“But after they bowl six games, there is a cut. They eliminate half the teams and they eliminate a boatload of individuals.

So Friday is pretty intense. If you don’t

NWSL’s Golden Boot Award and MVP award as she scored 17 times in 2017.

“Sam is a player that any team in the league would jump to get,’’ Dames said. “She is a young and eager forward that has proven to be one of the best in the world.’’

Nicki Stanton: Another Sky Blue player, Stanton played in 41 NWSL games.

Six draftees: The team picked up a half-dozen players in the NWSL College Draft including Naperville native Zoey Goralski and Schaumburg native Alexa Ben.

AREA SPORTS REPORT

Steals and milestones in TCC’s win

By Jeff Vorva

Photo by Jeff Vorva

Christen Press was traded by the Red Stars to Houston in a three-team deal.

Palumbo heads list of area wrestling champs

By Jeff Vorva

tational.

He claimed the 100 butterfly in 57.28 seconds and the 100 back in :58.35.

Oak Lawn’s Alan Pryman was the only other local champ as he won the 500 free in 5:26.63.

Sports Editor

Photo by Jeff Vorva

Trinity Christian College’s Lauren Stokes went over the 1,000-point mark for her career on Saturday.

and 12-0 in the Chicagoland Collegiate Athletic Conference.

Men’s basketball: SXU won its fourth straight game with a 98-79 victory over Olivet Nazarene on Saturday as Quinn Niego led the team with 24 points. The Cougars were 13-8 overall and 7-5 in the CCAC after the game.

Men’s volleyball: The Cougars’ opening match was not against a cupcake as they faced Division III power Dominican and lost in three. Former Stagg standout Thomas Matonis and Jake Olson each had four kills.

bowl well in the morning, you could pretty much be done.’’

McCormick finished fourth with a 1,320 and earned a trip to O’Fallon for the first time. The junior recalled 2016 state qualifier (who finished 15th in the state), 2017 regional champion and teammate Shaun Quinn missing on a second straight trip to state and knew how tough it was to get to this plateau.

“It means a heck of a lot to me,” he

Wrestling is a male-dominated sport, but Richards’ Mia Palumbo is still enjoying success.

Palumbo won the 106-pound division of the South Suburban meet on Saturday at Shepard High School. She beat Jack McDonald of Reavis, 3-0, in the championship match. With regionals starting up on Feb. 3, it will be interesting to see where she will be seeded and how far she can advance.

Shepard’s Sherman Dixon (160) was the only other area champion in the event.

Oak Forest won with 186 points and Richards took third with 112.

At the Tom Lahey Tournament at Stagg, Sandburg’s Pat Nolan (132) and Nate Goodman (195) plus Stagg’s Domenic Zaccone (120) and Peter Radev (160) were champions.

In the Catholic League Meet at Mount Carmel, Brother Rice’s Myles Ruffin (285) earned a title.

said. “I’m just happy to get there and will be happy with whatever I do. I knew I was in the running and I just killed it at the end. I threw a 258 in the last game (on Saturday) and medaled with it.”

LaBonte has state experience. Two years ago, he won the Illinois Elementary School Association state championship and this is his first foray into the IHSA finals.

He rolled a 1,239 Saturday and earned

Hills Baseball Softball registration

Supplied photo

Mia Palumbo of Richards won a conference wrestling title at 106 pounds Saturday.

Schrader takes third in conference Sandburg’s Emily Schrader finished third in the SouthWest Suburban meet at Brunswick Zone in Woodridge on Saturday with a 1,261 in six games.

The Eagles finished fourth.

Vis wins two events Chicago Christian doesn’t have a boys swimming team but Josiah Vis swam unattached and won two events at the 12-team Shepard Invi-

the final qualifying slot by four pins.

“I just picked up my spares and made sure I got my balls to the pocket. It’s a hard bowling alley, and I was just listening to coach (Kari Vanderjack).

“It (finding out he made the cut for state) was very overwhelming. I have a lot of gratitude to get the results for how hard I’ve worked. It’s a very big accomplishment. I didn’t make it last year, so I’m looking forward to going

The Hills Baseball Softball Association will have a registration Feb. 14 from 5 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at the Hickory Hills Community Center, 7800 W. 89th Place in Hickory Hills.

For more information, contact Johnny Rivas at 708-2961974.

PBO registration There is still time to register for the 2018 Palos Baseball Organization season.

PBO offers a quality youth baseball program designed to provide an environment where players can learn and develop fundamentals, skills, teamwork and good sportsmanship Please see the PBO website: www.palosbaseball.org for more details on the registration.

up against the tough competition.”

One of the biggest surprises in the area is that Sandburg, a team that qualified for state three years in a row, did not make the cut, nor did talented Eagles junior Cameron Crowe, who finished 39th in the state as a freshman and 16th as a sophomore.

Randy Whalen contributed to this report.

The Regional News - The Reporter

Thursday, January 25, 2018 Section 2

3

AREA HOOPS AT A GLANCE BOYS Brother Rice Chicago Christian Evergreen Park Marist Oak Lawn Richards Sandburg Shepard St. Laurence Stagg

W-L 12-8 10-8 8-10 18-2 12-6 7-11 12-5 10-6 15-6 5-12

STREAK L2 W1 W2 L1 W2 L2 W2 W2 W3 L5

NEXT at St. Joseph, Fri.; at Tinley Park, Tues. hosts Timothy Christian, Fri. at Oak Lawn, Fri., vs. TBA at Beecher Shootout, Sat.; host Hancock, Tues. hosts Joliet Catholic Academy, Fri.; at St. Rita, Tues. hosts Evergreen Park, Fri.; vs. TBA at Beecher Shootout, Sat. hosts Eisenhower, Fri.; at Stagg, Tues. at H-F, Fri.; vs. TBA at L-Way W. Warrior Showdown, Sat.; at Plainfield S., Tues. hosts Argo, Fri.; hosts Peotone, Mon.; hosts Universal, Tues. hosts Bishop McNamara, Fri.; at Conant, Tues. hosts Lockport, Fri.; hosts Richards, Tues.

Madelyn McGrath and her Oak Lawn teammates pulled off a big win over Richards last week and they will visit Shepard tonight (Thursday).

Photo by Jeff Vorva

* Records through Sunday, Jan. 21; compiled by Randy Whalen

GIRLS Chicago Christian Evergreen Park Marist Mother McAuley Oak Lawn Richards Sandburg Shepard St. Laurence Stagg

W-L 8-13 20-2 16-4 17-6 12-8 15-4 9-12 6-13 11-11 13-6

STREAK L1 W14 W2 W1 W2 L1 L1 L1 L1 W1

NEXT hosts Walther Christian, Thurs.; at Elmwood Park, Tues. hosts Eisenhower, Thurs.; at Richards, Tues. hosts Marian Catholic, Sat.; at Maine West, Mon.; at Marian Central Cath., Wed. hosts De La Salle, Thurs.; hosts Regina, Sat. at Shepard, Thurs.; at Reavis, Tues. hosts Agricultural Science, Thurs.; hosts Evergreen Park, Tues. at Bolingbrook, Thurs.; hosts Lincoln-Way East, Tues. hosts Oak Lawn, Thurs. at Kennedy, Thurs.; at Catalyst Maria, Tues. hosts Homewood-Flossmoor, Thurs.; at Bolingbrook, Tues.

* Records through Sunday, Jan. 21; compiled by Randy Whalen

FOCUS ON BOYS BASKETBALL

Marist positions itself for 30-win season

By Jeff Vorva Sports Editor

Photos by Jeff Vorva

Evergreen Park’s Nyssa Wagner (left) and Argo’s Montserrat Tovar chase down a loose ball during a South Suburban Conference Red battle in Summit.

FOCUS ON GIRLS BASKETBALL

Argo grabs upper hand in SSC Red race

By Jeff Vorva

1 and Loyola at 1 p.m. Feb. 3.

Sports Editor

Oak Lawn

Continued from Page 1 Friday. The remaining conference schedule finds the Spartans hosting Shepard Feb. 9, hosting Reavis Feb. 13, visiting Eisenhower Feb. 16 and visiting Argo Feb. 23.

Richards’s remaining conference schedule finds the Bulldogs

Planting the seeds Seeding for Class 1A and 2A postseason tournaments will be announced today (Thursday) by the Illinois High School Association.

Chicago Christian is the lone Class 2A school in the area and will be hosting the sectional semifinals and finals.

Class 3A and 4A seeds will be announced Feb. 1.

Working overtime again Sandburg suffered a heartbreaking 67-57 overtime loss to Bolingbrook on Jan. 5 in SouthWest Suburban Conference Blue action and the following weekend, Bolingbrook stunned Morgan Park.

The Eagles broke some hearts of their own when

Photo by Jeff Vorva

Coach Gene Nolan talks to his Marist starters before a Jan. 16 game against Brother Rice. The RedHawks have put themselves in a position where winning 30 games could be a reality.

THE MAGNIFICENT SEVEN A look at area boys basketball teams with 28 or more wins in a season: Team Record Years Coach Oak Lawn* 30-3 1970-71 Len Scaduto Richards* 30-4 2007-08 John Chappetto St. Laurence 29-4 1976-77 Chuck Schwarz Chicago Christian 28-1 1971-72 Will Slager Richards 28-2 1997-98 Jack Fitzgerald Chicago Christian 28-2 1974-75 Will Slager Chicago Christian 28-2 1982-83 Will Slager * — state championship teams

they knocked off host Lockport 62-56 in overtime Friday night in a league game. Marvin Agwomoh led the Eagles with 12 points while Kevin McShane had 16 and Jake Pygon 13.

It keeps the Eagles’ slim chances for a conference title alive as they are 2-2 in league play.

Bolingbrook is the leader with a 4-0 mark while Lincoln-Way East and Homewood-Flossmoor are each 3-1.

Beecher feature Beecher High School hosts its inaugural Josh Baumgartner State Farm Shootout on Saturday and two area teams will take part in the event.

Oak Lawn takes on St. Francis De Sales at 1:30 p.m. and Evergreen Park plays in the sixth and final game of the shootout with a battle against Lincoln-Way Central at 7:30 p.m.

BRIDGEVIEW

Argo’s all-time leading scorer Chatori Tyler (right) is defended by Evergreen Park’s Alandria Frison during a 3-point attempt in Argo’s win Thursday night. Tyler led the Argonauts with 20 points despite going scoreless in the first period.

make a trip to the Chicago school over the weekend.

Evergreen Park had been ranked eighth in the state in the Associated Press poll for three straight weeks and headed into the game with a 13-game winning streak. Shots were not falling for the Mustangs but Kacey Gardner had 12 points while Emma O’Grady and Nyssa Wagner each had 10.

Earlier in the week, the Mustangs beat Hillcrest — 52-35 — for the first time in coach Bruce Scaduto’s seven years at the helm.

“We had a good week,” Scaduto said. “But if we beat Argo, it would have been an awesome week.’’

Tournament time Mother McAuley hosts four games in the Girls Catholic Athletic Conference Red Tournament, which begins today (Thursday).

The Mighty Macs host De La Salle at 6 p.m. to kick things off.

They host Regina Saturday at 1 p.m., St. Ignatius at 6 p.m. on Feb.

hosting Eisenhower on Friday, visiting Argo Feb. 2, visiting Evergreen Park Feb. 13, visiting Shepard Feb. 16 and hosting Reavis Feb. 23.

Shepard is also going to have a say in all of this and the Astros host Argo Friday night, visit Evergreen Park on Feb. 2, visit Oak Lawn Feb. 9, host Richards Feb. 16 and visit Eisenhower Feb. 23.

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The South Suburban Conference Red race is far from over, but on paper Argo girls’ basketball team has a huge upper hand to win its third straight title.

After going through the SSC Blue teams unblemished in crossover games, the Argonauts took on the only other unbeaten league squad — Evergreen Park — in the Red and won 51-42 Thursday night in Summit.

Heading into this week’s action, Argo was 9-0 and Evergreen Park 7-1. Richards figured to be in the mix as well, but when it dropped a 53-39 game to crosstown rival Oak Lawn, that put the Bulldogs in a hole. Oak Lawn improved to 5-4 with the win but the Spartans might be too far out to capture its first SSC Red title since 2013-14.

The Argo-EP showdown started with some intrigue as the Mustangs held a 10-9 lead over the Argonauts and held their all-time leading scorer, senior Chatori Tyler, scoreless in the first eight minutes.

But the Argonauts righted their ship in the second quarter with a barrage of scoring and took a 3116 halftime lead and never looked back. Tyler, who has more than 1,700 career points, finished with 20 while junior Tadriana Heard, who surpassed the 1,000-point mark in late December, added 15.

Argo coach Dan McCarthy said that before this dynamic duo hit its stride, Argo never had a girls player hit 1,000 points.

Tyler said that one other time this season she was held scoreless in an opening quarter.

“I wasn’t getting frustrated because we were playing good defense against Evergreen Park,” Tyler said. “Scoring wasn’t the main priority. It was to get back on defense and stop their players.’’

Tyler was able to show off her skills on both ends of the court to help her team and herself, as Roosevelt University was scouting in the stands and she had planned to

Don’t look now, but Marist’s boys basketball team has a chance to make some more history.

While coach Gene Nolan is not one to look past the next game his Redhawks are about to play, star senior Morgan Taylor admits the team is thinking big.

“Our goals are limitless,” he said. “As long as the coaches believe in us and we believe in each other, we can do almost anything we want.’’

Last year Nolan called his 27-4 team “the best team to come through Marist” and losing key players through graduation and transfers didn’t appear to bode well for this season.

Despite that, the RedHawks enter this week with an 18-2 record with its only blemishes coming in the semifinals of the Centralia Holiday Tournament, where they lost to Champaign Central, 57-51, and Friday, when they dropped a 69-63 overtime thriller to Benet at home.

There are eight more games on the schedule and if the RedHawks can run the table, they would have a 26-2 mark heading into the postseason. If they could win regional and sectional titles, the RedHawks would win 30 games, which would tie an area record.

Oak Lawn’s 1970-71 team and Richards’ 200708 teams each won 30 games during their state championship seasons. Running the table won’t be easy, however. A non-conference game at St. Rita looms Tuesday. Conference games against Notre Dame, St. Viator and St. Patrick will figure to be daunting.

While he’s not making predictions, Nolan likes what he sees out of the RedHawks so far.

“These players know their roles well and they like each other,” he said. “I hope it shows on the floor because we certainly see it.’’

Even if the RedHawks can’t get to 30, this could be one of the winningest teams in area history.

Aside from the two 30-game winners, five more teams either won 28 or 29 games in a season.

H

73rd Pl. 74th St. 74th Pl.

75th St.

4

Section 2 Thursday, January 25, 2018

The Regional News - The Reporter

A look at a gold medal celebration at McAuley

Mother McAuley Principal Eileen Boyce walks through an empty hallway (left photo) on Thursday morning minutes before a celebration for sophomore hockey player Abbey Murphy. The same hallway filled quickly for the start of the golf cart parade (right).

Photos by Jeff Vorva

Abbey Murphy (left in golf cart) was driven through the halls of Mother McAuley as a part of a celebration in her honor.

Students at Mother McAuley decked out in red, white and blue for the celebration of USA U18 gold medal winner Abbey Murphy on Tuesday.

Oak Lawn’s Blouzdis is a driving force during parades

By Jeff Vorva Sports Editor

Oak Lawn’s Beth Blouzdis has become Mother McAuley’s designated driver.

Students at the Chicago school with big accomplishments get paraded around the school in a golf cart while students line the hallways and cheer.

Over the past decade, one common denominator with the golf cart parade has been the driver – Blouzdis, who is the school’s building manager.

“Whenever our volleyball team goes down state or any other accomplishment, we usually have a cart ride,” Blouzdis said. “It never gets old. I have a lot of fun doing it. It’s great.

I’ve been here a long time and I’ve been here for 28 years.

“I wasn’t the driver at the beginning, but I’ve been doing it for the past 10 years. It’s been fun. I get a kick out of the girls. They make it interesting.’’

The latest ride came Thursday when sophomore Abbey Murphy, a gold medal winner from the USA International Ice Hockey Federation Women’s Word Championship, was carted around.

Murphy, an Evergreen Park resident, said she has seen golf cart parades in the past but never imagined a scenario in which she would be seated to Blouzdis’s right in the cart.

“It was a lot of fun but I had some nerves at the beginning,” Murphy said.

“But all of these girls are awesome. I think this one was the loudest though, with all of the ‘U.S.A.’ chants.’’

Vorva

Continued from Page 1 She has already committed to a powerhouse hockey college – Minnesota. She got that out of the way last year as a freshman.

And she doesn’t even have a driver’s license yet.

Let’s not put her in the 2022 Olympics yet, but that is one of her long-term goals.

Oak Lawn’s Beth Blouzdis (in cart, right) waves to the crowd as she drives guest of honor Abbey Murphy during a parade in the school halls on Thursday.

She said she would love to be able to be teammates with Palos Heights’ Kendall Coyne, who will playing in her second Olympics in February.

But Murphy is taking things “stepby-step” and the road to nationals is her next mission with the Mission. After that, she is weighing playing lacrosse for the Mighty Macs this spring in the historic first year the Illinois High Association sanctioned the sport.

Let’s go back to Russia.

Murphy said this was her first taste of international competition and she is not a big fan of plane rides.

After a nine-hour plane ride, the team settled in and on Jan. 6, it played Sweden.

Murphy scored a goal in regulation and the USA sweated out a 2-1 overtime victory. The next day, the team faced host Russia and won 5-3 but she did not score.

On Jan. 9, the team roughed up rival Canada, 6-2, and Murphy scored a late

goal. Three days later, the USA beat Canada 4-3 in a shootout in the semifinals to set up a rematch with Sweden for the gold.

Murphy scored her third and fourth goals in the tournament and added an assist in a surprisingly easy 9-3 victory.

“As you get further into the tournament, you become more of a family,” Murphy said. “Our final day was our best day and we played our best game.’’

The 5-foot-4, 125-pound Murphy said

she wasn’t intimidated by the older players.

“Some of those girls are huge,’’ she said. “But you have to compete at your best. You go out and play and hope you can play better than them.’’

Murphy said the whole experience was a “blast.”

“It’s an honor to represent your country and to have all of those teammates at your side while you are doing it,” she said.

“And it’s an honor to represent all of the players that have done it before you.’’

The Regional News - The Reporter

The Reporter Newspapers Call 448-6161 Deadline 5 p.m. Monday Hours M-F 9 to 5

Thursday, January 25, 2018 Section 2

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Houses For Sale

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT - CHANCERY DIVISION

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT - CHANCERY DIVISION PNC BANK, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION Plaintiff, -v.MICHAEL K. MISHLER, AS EXECUTOR OF THE ESTATE OF WAYNE D. CONNOLLY, UNKNOWN HEIRS AND LEGATEES OF WAYNE D. CONNOLLY, THE EARL CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION, MICHAEL K. MISHLER, MARK T. LINDEMANN, ANTHONY J. LINDEMANN, THOMAS J. LINDEMANN, RALPH K. LINDEMANN, UNKNOWN OWNERS AND NONRECORD CLAIMANTS Defendants 17 CH 008673 9748 MILL DRIVE EAST # 1E PALOS PARK, IL 60464 NOTICE OF SALE PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above cause on October 19, 2017, an agent for The Judicial Sales Corporation, will at 10:30 AM on March 2, 2018, at The Judicial Sales Corporation, One South Wacker Drive, CHICAGO, IL, 60606, sell at public auction to the highest bidder, as set forth below, the following described real estate: Commonly known as 9748 MILL DRIVE EAST # 1E, PALOS PARK, IL 60464 Property Index No. 23-33-209-031-1021.

The real estate is improved with a residence.

Sale terms: 25% down of the highest bid by certified funds at the close of the sale payable to The Judicial Sales Corporation. No third party checks will be accepted. The balance in certified funds/ or wire transfer, is due within twenty-four (24) hours. The subject property is subject to general real estate taxes, special assessments, or special taxes levied against said real estate and is offered for sale without any representation as to quality or quantity of title and without recourse to Plaintiff and in “AS IS” condition. The sale is further subject to confirmation by the court.

Upon payment in full of the amount bid, the purchaser will receive a Certificate of Sale that will entitle the purchaser to a deed to the real estate after confirmation of the sale.

The property will NOT be open for inspection and plaintiff makes no representation as to the condition of the property. Prospective bidders are admonished to check the court file to verify all information.

If this property is a condominium unit, the purchaser of the unit at the foreclosure sale, other than a mortgagee, shall pay the assessments and the legal fees required by The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/9(g)(1) and (g)(4). If this property is a condominium unit which is part of a common interest community, the purchaser of the unit at the foreclosure sale other than a mortgagee shall pay the assessments required by The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/18.5(g-1).

IF YOU ARE THE MORTGAGOR (HOMEOWNER), YOU HAVE THE RIGHT TO REMAIN IN POSSESSION FOR 30 DAYS AFTER ENTRY OF AN ORDER OF POSSESSION, IN ACCORDANCE WITH SECTION 15-1701(C) OF THE ILLINOIS MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE LAW. You will need a photo identification issued by a government agency (driver’s license, passport, etc.) in order to gain entry into our building and the foreclosure sale room in Cook County and the same identification for sales held at other county venues where The Judicial Sales Corporation conducts foreclosure sales.

For information, examine the court file or contact Plaintiff’s attorney: CODILIS & ASSOCIATES, P.C., 15W030 NORTH FRONTAGE ROAD, SUITE 100, BURR RIDGE, IL 60527, (630) 794-9876 Please refer to file number 14-17-09030.

THE JUDICIAL SALES CORPORATION One South Wacker Drive, 24th Floor, Chicago, IL 60606-4650 (312) 236-SALE You can also visit The Judicial Sales Corporation at www.tjsc.com for a 7 day status report of pending sales.

CODILIS & ASSOCIATES, P.C. 15W030 NORTH FRONTAGE ROAD, SUITE 100 BURR RIDGE, IL 60527 (630) 794-5300 E-Mail: pleadings@il.cslegal.com Attorney File No. 14-17-09030 Attorney ARDC No. 00468002 Attorney Code. 21762 Case Number: 17 CH 008673 TJSC#: 37-9733 NOTE: Pursuant to the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, you are advised that Plaintiff’s attorney is deemed to be a debt collector attempting to collect a debt and any information obtained will be used for that purpose.

I3072246

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT - CHANCERY DIVISION JPMORGAN CHASE BANK, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION Plaintiff, -v.MARY ABRAHAM, PHILIP MATHEW, KGH CONSULTATION & TREATMENT, INC. Defendants 14 CH 009103 11838 CALIFORNIA TRAIL ORLAND PARK, IL 60467 NOTICE OF SALE PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above cause on January 15, 2016, an agent for The Judicial Sales Corporation, will at 10:30 AM on February 8, 2018, at The Judicial Sales Corporation, One South Wacker Drive, CHICAGO, IL, 60606, sell at public auction to the highest bidder, as set forth below, the following described real estate: Commonly known as 11838 CALIFORNIA TRAIL, ORLAND PARK, IL 60467 Property Index No. 27-06-110-004.

The real estate is improved with a single family residence.

Sale terms: 25% down of the highest bid by certified funds at the close of the sale payable to The Judicial Sales Corporation. No third party checks will be accepted. The balance in certified funds/ or wire transfer, is due within twenty-four (24) hours. The subject property is subject to general real estate taxes, special assessments, or special taxes levied against said real estate and is offered for sale without any representation as to quality or quantity of title and without recourse to Plaintiff and in “AS IS” condition. The sale is further subject to confirmation by the court.

Upon payment in full of the amount bid, the purchaser will receive a Certificate of Sale that will entitle the purchaser to a deed to the real estate after confirmation of the sale.

The property will NOT be open for inspection and plaintiff makes no representation as to the condition of the property. Prospective bidders are admonished to check the court file to verify all information.

If this property is a condominium unit, the purchaser of the unit at the foreclosure sale, other than a mortgagee, shall pay the assessments and the legal fees required by The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/9(g)(1) and (g)(4). If this property is a condominium unit which is part of a common interest community, the purchaser of the unit at the foreclosure sale other than a mortgagee shall pay the assessments required by The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/18.5(g-1).

IF YOU ARE THE MORTGAGOR (HOMEOWNER), YOU HAVE THE RIGHT TO REMAIN IN POSSESSION FOR 30 DAYS AFTER ENTRY OF AN ORDER OF POSSESSION, IN ACCORDANCE WITH SECTION 15-1701(C) OF THE ILLINOIS MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE LAW. You will need a photo identification issued by a government agency (driver’s license, passport, etc.) in order to gain entry into our building and the foreclosure sale room in Cook County and the same identification for sales held at other county venues where The Judicial Sales Corporation conducts foreclosure sales.

For information, examine the court file or contact Plaintiff’s attorney: CODILIS & ASSOCIATES, P.C., 15W030 NORTH FRONTAGE ROAD, SUITE 100, BURR RIDGE, IL 60527, (630) 794-9876 Please refer to file number 14-13-33027.

THE JUDICIAL SALES CORPORATION One South Wacker Drive, 24th Floor, Chicago, IL 60606-4650 (312) 236-SALE You can also visit The Judicial Sales Corporation at www.tjsc.com for a 7 day status report of pending sales.

CODILIS & ASSOCIATES, P.C. 15W030 NORTH FRONTAGE ROAD, SUITE 100 BURR RIDGE, IL 60527 (630) 794-5300 E-Mail: pleadings@il.cslegal.com Attorney File No. 14-13-33027 Attorney ARDC No. 00468002 Attorney Code. 21762 Case Number: 14 CH 009103 TJSC#: 38-33 NOTE: Pursuant to the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, you are advised that Plaintiff’s attorney is deemed to be a debt collector attempting to collect a debt and any information obtained will be used for that purpose.

I3072855

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT - CHANCERY DIVISION WELLS FARGO BANK, N.A. Plaintiff, -v.PATRICIA A. TRACEY, CARRIAGE WAY CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION Defendants 14 CH 010995 5704 128TH STREET UNIT #1C CRESTWOOD, IL 60445 NOTICE OF SALE PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above cause on March 30, 2015, an agent for The Judicial Sales Corporation, will at 10:30 AM on February 13, 2018, at The Judicial Sales Corporation, One South Wacker Drive, CHICAGO, IL, 60606, sell at public auction to the highest bidder, as set forth below, the following described real estate: Commonly known as 5704 128TH STREET UNIT #1C, CRESTWOOD, IL 60445 Property Index No. 24-32-208-010-1003.

The real estate is improved with a condo/townhouse.

Sale terms: 25% down of the highest bid by certified funds at the close of the sale payable to The Judicial Sales Corporation. No third party checks will be accepted. The balance in certified funds/ or wire transfer, is due within twenty-four (24) hours. The subject property is subject to general real estate taxes, special assessments, or special taxes levied against said real estate and is offered for sale without any representation as to quality or quantity of title and without recourse to Plaintiff and in “AS IS” condition. The sale is further subject to confirmation by the court.

Upon payment in full of the amount bid, the purchaser will receive a Certificate of Sale that will entitle the purchaser to a deed to the real estate after confirmation of the sale.

The property will NOT be open for inspection and plaintiff makes no representation as to the condition of the property. Prospective bidders are admonished to check the court file to verify all information.

If this property is a condominium unit, the purchaser of the unit at the foreclosure sale, other than a mortgagee, shall pay the assessments and the legal fees required by The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/9(g)(1) and (g)(4). If this property is a condominium unit which is part of a common interest community, the purchaser of the unit at the foreclosure sale other than a mortgagee shall pay the assessments required by The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/18.5(g-1).

IF YOU ARE THE MORTGAGOR (HOMEOWNER), YOU HAVE THE RIGHT TO REMAIN IN POSSESSION FOR 30 DAYS AFTER ENTRY OF AN ORDER OF POSSESSION, IN ACCORDANCE WITH SECTION 15-1701(C) OF THE ILLINOIS MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE LAW. You will need a photo identification issued by a government agency (driver’s license, passport, etc.) in order to gain entry into our building and the foreclosure sale room in Cook County and the same identification for sales held at other county venues where The Judicial Sales Corporation conducts foreclosure sales.

For information, examine the court file or contact Plaintiff’s attorney: CODILIS & ASSOCIATES, P.C., 15W030 NORTH FRONTAGE ROAD, SUITE 100, BURR RIDGE, IL 60527, (630) 794-9876 Please refer to file number 14-14-12194.

THE JUDICIAL SALES CORPORATION One South Wacker Drive, 24th Floor, Chicago, IL 60606-4650 (312) 236-SALE You can also visit The Judicial Sales Corporation at www.tjsc.com for a 7 day status report of pending sales.

CODILIS & ASSOCIATES, P.C. 15W030 NORTH FRONTAGE ROAD, SUITE 100 BURR RIDGE, IL 60527 (630) 794-5300 E-Mail: pleadings@il.cslegal.com Attorney File No. 14-14-12194 Attorney ARDC No. 00468002 Attorney Code. 21762 Case Number: 14 CH 010995 TJSC#: 37-11367 NOTE: Pursuant to the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, you are advised that Plaintiff’s attorney is deemed to be a debt collector attempting to collect a debt and any information obtained will be used for that purpose.

I3072917

U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION Plaintiff, -v.MATTHEW J. HAJER, SECRETARY OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT, ILLINOIS HOUSING DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY Defendants 2017 CH 8792 9238 S. 49TH CT Oak Lawn, IL 60453 NOTICE OF SALE PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above cause on December 4, 2017, an agent for The Judicial Sales Corporation, will at 10:30 AM on March 6, 2018, at The Judicial Sales Corporation, One South Wacker Drive, CHICAGO, IL, 60606, sell at public auction to the highest bidder, as set forth below, the following described real estate: Commonly known as 9238 S. 49TH CT, Oak Lawn, IL 60453 Property Index No. 24-04-428-021-0000.

The real estate is improved with a single family residence.

The judgment amount was $94,990.66.

Sale terms: 25% down of the highest bid by certified funds at the close of the sale payable to The Judicial Sales Corporation. No third party checks will be accepted. The balance in certified funds/or wire transfer, is due within twenty-four (24) hours. The subject property is subject to general real estate taxes, special assessments, or special taxes levied against said real estate and is offered for sale without any representation as to quality or quantity of title and without recourse to Plaintiff and in AS IS condition. The sale is further subject to confirmation by the court.

Upon payment in full of the amount bid, the purchaser will receive a Certificate of Sale that will entitle the purchaser to a deed to the real estate after confirmation of the sale.

The property will NOT be open for inspection and plaintiff makes no representation as to the condition of the property. Prospective bidders are admonished to check the court file to verify all information.

If this property is a condominium unit, the purchaser of the unit at the foreclosure sale, other than a mortgagee, shall pay the assessments and the legal fees required by The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/9(g)(1) and (g)(4). If this property is a condominium unit which is part of a common interest community, the purchaser of the unit at the foreclosure sale other than a mortgagee shall pay the assessments required by The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/18.5(g-1).

IF YOU ARE THE MORTGAGOR (HOMEOWNER), YOU HAVE THE RIGHT TO REMAIN IN POSSESSION FOR 30 DAYS AFTER ENTRY OF AN ORDER OF POSSESSION, IN ACCORDANCE WITH SECTION 15-1701(C) OF THE ILLINOIS MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE LAW. You will need a photo identification issued by a government agency (driver’s license, passport, etc.) in order to gain entry into our building and the foreclosure sale room in Cook County and the same identification for sales held at other county venues where The Judicial Sales Corporation conducts foreclosure sales.

For information, contact Plaintiff s attorney: MARINOSCI LAW GROUP, P.C., 134 N LaSalle St., STE 1900, Chicago, IL 60602, (312) 940-8580 Please refer to file number 17-07814.

THE JUDICIAL SALES CORPORATION One South Wacker Drive, 24th Floor, Chicago, IL 60606-4650 (312) 236-SALE You can also visit The Judicial Sales Corporation at www.tjsc.com for a 7 day status report of pending sales.

MARINOSCI LAW GROUP, P.C. 134 N LaSalle St., STE 1900 Chicago, IL 60602 (312) 940-8580 E-Mail: mlgil@mlg-defaultlaw.com Attorney File No. 17-07814 Attorney Code. 59049 Case Number: 2017 CH 8792 TJSC#: 38-185 NOTE: Pursuant to the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, you are advised that Plaintiff s attorney is deemed to be a debt collector attempting to collect a debt and any information obtained will be used for that purpose.

Houses For Sale IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT - CHANCERY DIVISION HSBC BANK USA, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE FOR FREMONT HOME LOAN TRUST 2005-D, MORTGAGE-BACKED CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2005-D; Plaintiff, vs.

MARJORIE D. ADAMS; WAYNE A. ADAMS; CITIBANK, N.A.; DIRECTOR OF EMPLOYMENT SECURITY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS; ILLINOIS DEPARTMENT OF REVENUE; FIA CARD SERVICES, N.A.; VILLAGE OF ARLINGTON HEIGHTS; MARJORIE D. ADAMS AS TRUSTEE OF THE VICTORIA LAND TRUST; UNKNOWN HEIRS AND LEGATEES OF MARJORIE D. ADAMS, IF ANY; UNKNOWN HEIRS AND LEGATEES OF WAYNE A. ADAMS, IF ANY; UNKNOWN OWNERS AND NON RECORD CLAIMANTS; Defendants, 15 CH 12854 NOTICE OF SALE PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above entitled cause Intercounty Judicial Sales Corporation will on Monday, February 26, 2018 at the hour of 11 a.m. in their office at 120 West Madison Street, Suite 718A, Chicago, Illinois, sell at public auction to the highest bidder for cash, as set forth below, the following described mortgaged real estate: P.I.N. 23-27-402-007-0000.

Commonly known as 12401 South 91st Avenue, Palos Park, IL 60464.

The mortgaged real estate is improved with a single family residence. If the subject mortgaged real estate is a unit of a common interest community, the purchaser of the unit other than a mortgagee shall pay the assessments required by subsection (g-1) of Section 18.5 of the Condominium Property Act. Sale terms: 10% down by certified funds, balance, by certified funds, within 24 hours. No refunds. The property will NOT be open for inspection For information call the Sales Clerk at Plaintiff’s Attorney, The Wirbicki Law Group, 33 West Monroe Street, Chicago, Illinois 60603. (312) 360-9455 WA15-0500.

INTERCOUNTY JUDICIAL SALES CORPORATION Selling Officer, (312) 444-1122 I3073939

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Houses For Sale IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT - CHANCERY DIVISION FEDERAL NATIONAL MORTGAGE ASSOCIATION Plaintiff, -v.RAME JOUDEH, NOWAL JUDEH, FOUNTAIN HILLS OF ORLAND PARK HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATION Defendants 15 CH 06040 18038 BUCKINGHAM DRIVE ORLAND PARK, IL 60467 NOTICE OF SALE PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above cause on September 26, 2017, an agent for The Judicial Sales Corporation, will at 10:30 AM on February 20, 2018, at The Judicial Sales Corporation, One South Wacker Drive, CHICAGO, IL, 60606, sell at public auction to the highest bidder, as set forth below, the following described real estate: Commonly known as 18038 BUCKINGHAM DRIVE, ORLAND PARK, IL 60467 Property Index No. 27-32-308-010-0000.

The real estate is improved with a tan brick, single family home, with an attached two car garage.

Sale terms: 25% down of the highest bid by certified funds at the close of the sale payable to The Judicial Sales Corporation. No third party checks will be accepted. The balance in certified funds/ or wire transfer, is due within twenty-four (24) hours. The subject property is subject to general real estate taxes, special assessments, or special taxes levied against said real estate and is offered for sale without any representation as to quality or quantity of title and without recourse to Plaintiff and in “AS IS” condition. The sale is further subject to confirmation by the court.

Upon payment in full of the amount bid, the purchaser will receive a Certificate of Sale that will entitle the purchaser to a deed to the real estate after confirmation of the sale.

The property will NOT be open for inspection and plaintiff makes no representation as to the condition of the property. Prospective bidders are admonished to check the court file to verify all information.

If this property is a condominium unit, the purchaser of the unit at the foreclosure sale, other than a mortgagee, shall pay the assessments and the legal fees required by The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/9(g)(1) and (g)(4). If this property is a condominium unit which is part of a common interest community, the purchaser of the unit at the foreclosure sale other than a mortgagee shall pay the assessments required by The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/18.5(g-1).

IF YOU ARE THE MORTGAGOR (HOMEOWNER), YOU HAVE THE RIGHT TO REMAIN IN POSSESSION FOR 30 DAYS AFTER ENTRY OF AN ORDER OF POSSESSION, IN ACCORDANCE WITH SECTION 15-1701(C) OF THE ILLINOIS MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE LAW. You will need a photo identification issued by a government agency (driver’s license, passport, etc.) in order to gain entry into our building and the foreclosure sale room in Cook County and the same identification for sales held at other county venues where The Judicial Sales Corporation conducts foreclosure sales.

For information: Visit our website at service. atty-pierce.com. between the hours of 3 and 5pm.

McCalla Raymer Leibert Pierce, LLC, Plaintiff’s Attorneys, One North Dearborn Street, Suite 1200, Chicago, IL 60602. Tel No. (312) 416-5500. Please refer to file number 13698.

THE JUDICIAL SALES CORPORATION One South Wacker Drive, 24th Floor, Chicago, IL 60606-4650 (312) 236-SALE You can also visit The Judicial Sales Corporation at www.tjsc.com for a 7 day status report of pending sales.

McCalla Raymer Leibert Pierce, LLC One North Dearborn Street, Suite 1200 Chicago, IL 60602 (312) 416-5500 E-Mail: pleadings@mccalla.com Attorney File No. 13698 Attorney Code. 61256 Case Number: 15 CH 06040 TJSC#: 37-11274 I3073476

HAVE A HOUSE FOR SALE? PLACE YOUR AD TODAY! CALL 448-4000 OR 448-6161

RT. 45 IN PEOTONE 600 ft. frontage x 400 ft. deep 40 ft. x 60 ft. pole barn CALL 815-450-0004 Houses For Sale IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT - CHANCERY DIVISION NATIONSTAR MORTGAGE LLC; Plaintiff, vs.

FRANCESCO ROSELLI, AS PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE OF THE ESTATE OF MARCO ROSELLI, DECEASED; Defendants, 17 CH 5914 NOTICE OF SALE PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above entitled cause Intercounty Judicial Sales Corporation will on Wednesday, February 21, 2018 at the hour of 11 a.m. in their office at 120 West Madison Street, Suite 718A, Chicago, Illinois, sell at public auction to the highest bidder for cash, as set forth below, the following described mortgaged real estate: P.I.N. 23-14-209-007-0000.

Commonly known as 10523 South 80th Court, Palos Hills, IL 60465.

The mortgaged real estate is improved with a single family residence. If the subject mortgaged real estate is a unit of a common interest community, the purchaser of the unit other than a mortgagee shall pay the assessments required by subsection (g-1) of Section 18.5 of the Condominium Property Act. Sale terms: 10% down by certified funds, balance, by certified funds, within 24 hours. No refunds. The property will NOT be open for inspection.

For information call Sales Department at Plaintiff’s Attorney, Manley Deas Kochalski, LLC, One East Wacker Drive, Chicago, Illinois 60601. (614) 2205611. 17-013436 F2 INTERCOUNTY JUDICIAL SALES CORPORATION Selling Officer, (312) 444-1122 I3073153

Houses For Sale IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT - CHANCERY DIVISION BANK OF AMERICA, N.A.; Plaintiff, vs.

JOAN RUNDLE; UNKNOWN OWNERS AND NON RECORD CLAIMANTS; ORLAN BROOK CONDOMINIUM OWNERS’ ASSOCIATION; UNKNOWN SUCCESSOR TRUSTEE (S), UNDER THE TERMS AND PROVISIONS OF A CERTAIN TRUST AGREEMENT DATED APRIL 28, 2014 AND DESIGNATED AS THE RUNDLE LAND TRUST; Defendants, 17 CH 7342 NOTICE OF SALE PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above entitled cause Intercounty Judicial Sales Corporation will on Monday, March 5, 2018 at the hour of 11 a.m. in their office at 120 West Madison Street, Suite 718A, Chicago, Illinois, sell at public auction to the highest bidder for cash, as set forth below, the following described mortgaged real estate: P.I.N. 27-14-302-018-1097 and 27-14-302-0181198.

Commonly known as 15713 Orlan Brook Drive, Unit Number 97, Orland Park, IL 60462.

The mortgaged real estate is improved with a condominium residence. The purchaser of the unit other than a mortgagee shall pay the assessments and the legal fees required by subdivisions (g) (1) and (g)(4) of Section 9 of the Condominium Property Act Sale terms: 10% down by certified funds, balance, by certified funds, within 24 hours. No refunds. The property will NOT be open for inspection.

For information call Sales Department at Plaintiff’s Attorney, Manley Deas Kochalski, LLC, One East Wacker Drive, Chicago, Illinois 60601. (614) 2205611. 17-017501 F2 INTERCOUNTY JUDICIAL SALES CORPORATION Selling Officer, (312) 444-1122 I3074641

6

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Thursday, January 25, 2018

Section 2

7

A beginner’s guide to clearing your mind with meditation

By Jackson A. Thomas

How smartphone addiction may negatively change brain function

By Jackson A. Thomas Smartphones can be used for just about anything — ordering dinner, checking the news, booking a cab — all through a quick swipe. Just ask Susan Walter, who mainly uses hers to snap pictures and check her social media.

“I am on my phone about every half- hour looking at social media apps,” says Walter, a restaurant server in suburban Cleveland. “I normally have it in my purse or in my pocket, so I know where it is at all times.”

Although she has never worried about misplacing her device, Walter says if she lost it, she wouldn’t be too upset. “I would, however, say I am addicted to my phone,” she says. “I do feel the need to check it often, even if it’s just scrolling through social media.”

Cell phone addiction has been on the rise, according to several surveys. And a new study has added some fuel to the fire, revealing that smartphone and internet addiction may be harmful to the mind.

Dialing in the results

The study, presented in late 2017 by the Radiological Society of North America, indicates cell phone addiction may negatively affect brain functioning.

Known as “nomophobia”, it is “a debilitating and irrational fear of being separated from your smartphone,” says Dr. Jay Jagannathan, a board-certified neurologist based in Detroit. “Many people refer to nomophobia by

SMARTPHONE ADDICTION:

BY THE NUMBERS

According 2017 data from the Pew Research Center, 95% of Americans own and use cellphones, with 77% having smartphones, which is up from 35% in the center’s first survey of smartphone ownership conducted in 2011. According to 2016 data from Common Sense Media, 50% of teens and 27% of parents feel addicted to their devices. Sixty-nine percent of parents and 78% of teens check their devices hourly.

calling it cell phone addiction, as any parent with teenagers can attest. Nomophobia likely has a linear relationship with the growing functionality — and our overreliance — on smartphones.”

Study researchers found that teen boys addicted to their smartphones had significantly higher levels of gamma-aminobutyric acid, a neuron-depressing neurotransmitter in the cortex.

“In normal test subjects, the results showed the opposite — regular levels of glutamate-glutamine, which is a neurotransmitter that energizes the signals within the brain,” Jagannathan says. “To break it down, cellphone addicts’ altered brain chemistry shows lowered levels of attention, focus and control. Their brains were shown to be much more susceptible to distraction and inattentiveness.”

The research shows who’s most likely to develop this phobia: young adults ages 17 to 24. “This is a growing area of medical study,” Jagannathan says.

“Published results so far haven’t

yet been peer-reviewed and have included small sample groups.

For many of these young adults, they’ve never experienced a world without smartphones.”

Putting down the phone

Dr. Michael V. Genovese, chief medical adviser at Acadia Healthcare in the San Francisco Bay area, says for some people nomophobia can lead to anxiety, insomnia and isolation. In addition to altering brain function and slower GABA levels, he says, smartphone addiction can also cause “text neck,” poor posture and disruption of melatonin production.

Jagannathan says steps can and should be taken to fight this phobia, which include setting “parameters of use, tapering down the time we spend engaging with our smartphones and replacing screen time with normal activities, such as spending quality time with others.”

Genovese says to follow five general recommendations. “Turn off your cell-phone at least an hour before bed,” he says. “Use a real alarm clock instead of your cellphone, as it will help you forget about it. Set certain times to check your phone. Establish phone-free zones. And engage in real human contact.”

Walter admits she wasn’t aware nomophobia existed. And although she frequently uses her smartphone, “I definitely don’t have that phobia,” she says. “I have actually been trying to use my phone less!”

Whether you’re struggling to get the kids to school on time or juggling multiple projects at work, daily distractions are everywhere.

And the added pressures can take a toll on your health. This is where meditation can lift some of that weight off your shoulders and help turn your attention toward focusing on the present moment.

“We should meditate as a way of counterbalancing the inevitable stress we all encounter on a daily basis,” says Light Watkins, who has been practicing and teaching meditation since 1998 and is based in Venice, California.

“Stress makes us mentally foggy, physically sleepy, and we become poor decision-makers, opting for short-term solutions at the expense of long-term consequences.”

Research shows the benefits of a regular meditation practice are seemingly endless when it comes to our health. So take a deep breath, close your eyes and discover how this practice can help you find your center and a sense of clarity.

Breathing long, beating strong

Meditation may improve certain health problems and promote healthy behaviors, says Wen G. Chen, a program director at the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health at the National Institutes of Health.

“Some research suggests it may reduce blood pressure, symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome, pain, stress, anxiety and depression, eating behaviors and insomnia,” Chen says. “A number of studies have also helped researchers understand how meditation can physically change the brain and body.”

From a physical perspective, evidence shows meditation may help keep the heart strong. Tension can build up on the heart throughout the day, says Gopikumar Subramoniam, a yoga instructor in suburban Cleveland.

“The heart takes about 0.2 seconds for a compression and 0.3 seconds for rest,” he says. “During the day, due to stressful situations, the desired rest period does not happen, and the heart works harder without the necessary rest period,

and stress builds up on our body and mind.”

When we sleep well, the body recovers from the rest we get during sleep and we are ready for another day, according to Subramoniam. Those who don’t get adequate sleep tend to suffer more from stress-related issues.

“By meditating, we are helping the body consciously to rest and relax,” he says. “Meditating for at least 20 minutes will the give the body the benefit of six hours of sound sleep. The mind is like a monkey — always jumping from one thought to another. Meditation helps in slowing down this chatter, and we will experience short periods of ‘no-thought mind.’

That’s when the healing happens.”

Holistic benefits may lead to greater peace, calmness, clarity and attention. It fosters better self-awareness for the mind and body, says Michele Patestides, a mindfulness expert and instructor at Beacon College in Leesburg, Florida, who works with students who have learning disabilities.

“When we slow down and meditate, we become more aware, moment to moment, of the state of our body and mind,” Patestides says. “It can be a real wake-up call.

As we become more experienced in meditation, we learn to notice physical sensations and thoughts without judgment while also releasing them and letting them go.

I’ve experienced this personally in dealing with and managing pain from cancer treatment, osteoarthritis and fibromyalgia. It’s not a silver bullet but a complementary approach that can be helpful.”

Patestides says some of her students notice the benefits after about three sessions. “We just completed our student surveys, and some of their comments included: ‘I am able to manage my anxiety and keep my stress down.’ ‘It helps me relax.’ ‘It helps me stay focused and calm, and grounds my thinking. I love this group.’ ‘After group breathing and meditating, I feel like a weight has been lifted off me,’” she says.

Practicing meditation might not be the right fit for everyone.

Although it can provide some psychological benefits, it’s not designed to address personal trauma or complex loss, says Pilar Jennings, a meditation expert and therapist in New York City.

“If people are trying to address complicated traumas through meditation without clinical support, they might find the meditation stirs up powerful feelings that are hard to sit with,” Jennings says.

“It’s tempting, for most meditators, to at times hope it will be enough to change struggles with addiction, depression or anxiety.

But I would recommend seeking the support of a good psychotherapist who has respect and appreciation for meditation as an additional healing, too.”

The mind matters

For newbie meditators, experts agree it’s highly recommended to take a class — whether it’s in a meditation or Buddhist center, or even online. “It’s extremely helpful to have a skillful teacher to explain See MEDITATION, Page 8

Skincare tips to get you through the rest of winter without a scratch

By Jessica Perkins

How to cope with losing a spouse: advice from a grief recovery specialist

By Joanne K. Clobus Marriages come in all shapes and sizes, from the intimate soulmates to the platonic business partners and everything in between. Likewise, the grieving and adjustment process for losing a spouse is just as wide ranging.

“Grief is not neat and tidy, and no two people go through it the same way,” says certified grief recovery specialist Kelli Connolly.

Not surprisingly, the biggest struggle for most widows and widowers is loneliness. “They have spent part or most of everyday with their loved one and rarely made any decisions without consulting that person,” Connolly says. They are now forced to learn to live alone, make important decisions on their own and often have to take on roles they never had before.

Connolly works with widows who never had to pump gas or cut the grass and widowers who have never cooked a meal or cleaned the home. Many are unaware of the financials and have never paid the bills. So, along with dealing with their grief, they must learn new skills.

Ray and Verna Yourd’s 64year marriage was one for the ages. He was a physician with a busy practice, while she set her nursing career aside to raise their four children. In their later years, Verna worked in Ray’s medical office with him until he retired.

Then when his health declined, she placed him in the care of a nursing home, where he died six months later. “Being separated from Ray during that time was a very hard adjustment for me,” she says. “I missed him terribly.”

After Ray’s death, Verna went on about the business of life.

“Through our marriage, we talked things over and made decisions together on just about everything,” she says. While she managed their day-to-day finances, he weighed in on the bigger investments and household issues. Even with Ray no longer by her side, Verna is capable of handling things on her own. “I know how to take care of myself,” she says.

That’s not to say she never feels sad or lonely, but staying active, physically and socially, helps keep the blues at bay. “I get out of the house and go for a walk, or I go to the fitness center to work out,” she says. Verna volunteers regularly at her local hospital, where Ray practiced for many years. A few times a week, she visits his gravesite, just to talk to him and trim the grass around his headstone. “He probably sees me and says ‘Oh no, here comes Mrs. Neatnik again,’” she laughs.

Dry, flaky skin can be itchy and irritating. Even individuals who tend toward oily skin on their face often battle dry skin on their body in the winter months. A big factor in winter dryness is lower levels of humidity in the environment, says Dr. Suzan Obagi, associate professor of dermatology and associate professor of cosmetic surgery at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center.

“When it’s drier out, our skin loses more water,” Obagi says.

In fact, she says, individuals are prone to lose more water, and are at high risk of dehydration in the winter, which means everyone should be drinking more water and taking better care of their skin when the temperatures are colder.

Combat dry skin

There are several things that can be done to combat dry skin. First, avoid taking long, hot showers in the winter. While contrary to our desire to stay warm, Obagi says hot showers strip the skin of natural oil and dry it out. She recommends taking a shorter shower using warm water, rather than hot.

Next, she recommends using soap sparingly, as it can sometimes dry skin, as well. Try lathering up only those areas that tend to become dirty, such as under the arms and the groin. All other areas should be cleansed with a moisturizing cleanser, which has oil or fat as an ingredient. She offers caution to those using an oil-based cleanser, such as coconut oil or shea butter. These products can create slippery conditions in the shower.

Obagi recommends to those with very dry skin to consider using a hydrating ointment on the body.

Creams and lotions are better suited for those with moderate to mild dry skin. For those who

don’t like the tacky feeling of an ointment right before they get dressed for work, Obagi says a lotion can be used during the day and an ointment applied in the evening, paired with a loose-fitting pair of pajamas.

F.a.c.e. Makeup artist Erin Hendley also has a few recommendations for those seeking solutions to moisturize skin on their faces.

“Serums are typically lightweight and great for oily and normal skin,” Hendley says. “Toner sprays are also fabulous for oily skin, since they help balance out the Ph levels of the skin. Moisturizer lotions are usually thicker, so they are suggested for dry skin.

“For combination skin, ‘spot treating’ is a go-to, essentially, applying moisturizer lotions along the dry areas and applying a serum along the more oily to normal areas.”

Drink more water

While nothing sounds more appetizing than a hot cup of coffee on a winter morning or a brandy to keep warm at night, coffee and alcohol can accelerate dehydration. This leads to drier skin.

“Drink lots of water in the winter,” Obagi says. “In the winter, we have to hydrate more because we lose more water.”

Hendley says hydrating from within is the surest way to keep skin moisturized all year long.

She also recommends a spritzer applied directly to the skin to keep skin fresh.

“I love a mineralized water spritzed on to wake up the skin,” Hendley says. “I use it before applying makeup and at the end, too.”

Use a humidifier

Another dry skin culprit is the dry heat emitted from your home’s heating system. Humidifying products can be installed to many HVAC systems; however, even a basic, stand-alone humidifier placed in a bedroom can do a lot to add moisture back into the environment, Obagi says.

The best time to combat winter skin dryness is before it becomes an issue.

“Don’t wait until your skin is dry and irritated.” Obagi says.

“You can take preventative measures early on.”

8 Section 2

Thursday, January 25, 2018

The Regional News • The Reporter

Smith Senior Living: New Year’s resolutions easier to maintain with support and innovation Submitted by Smith Senior Living Residents at Smith Village in Chicago’s Beverly/Morgan Park neighborhood and Smith Crossing in Orland Park are finding it easier to keep their new year’s resolutions by taking advantage of interactive technology.

Both life plan communities have wellness centers that feature HUR workout equipment, which responds to wristbands configured for individual residents’ fitness needs and programs. By reading wristband technology, HUR workout equipment adjusts automatically to suit individual anatomy and strength. The HUR system also records repetitions and timing of workouts, reporting progress for immediate viewing on a monitor.

Workout information is retained for further tracking and evaluation by onsite wellness coordinators.

“It’s much easier to record and review progress,” said Karinna Wesley, wellness coordinator at Smith Village, 2320 W. 113th Place in Chicago. “At first, some residents were resistant to wearing

Meditation

Continued from Page 7 the techniques, both physical and mental, that bolster a meditation practice,” Jennings says.

But remember there’s no real wrong way to do it. It’s helpful to learn from teachers, of course.

But just sitting in stillness, noticing the breath, noticing when the mind wanders, and bringing your attention back to the breath is all that’s needed, says Michelle Gale, a mindfulness educator based in the San Francisco Bay area. “We are not meant to stop ourselves from thinking,” Gale says. “Thinking is normal. It’s the moment we notice our thoughts and choose to bring our attention back to the breath that we are practicing; we are doing it right.”

Watkins agrees, adding that you shouldn’t try to control your mind nor try be a monk. “Be yourself, sit comfortably, be natural, and allow your mind to do its thing — even if you feel like it’s not working,” he says.

Jenny Arrington, a meditation and yoga teacher at Northwestern University in suburban Chicago, says don’t go into a new meditation routine with expectations of a particular end result. “That just sets us up for failure,” Arrington says.

New meditators can expect that it will be challenging to not get carried away in their thoughts and to keep coming back to their focal point, Arrington says.

According to Patestides, building over time is the goal. “Don’t judge or feel pressure; just build it into a routine in your day and week,” she says. “Start with 10 minutes, and then increase to 20 minutes or so, even if it’s 10 minutes in the morning and 10 minutes before bed.”

Find your center

Most forms of meditation have four elements in common: a quiet location with minimal distractions, a comfortable posture, a focus of attention and an openminded attitude, according to Chen. It’s often helpful to pick a word or a phrase as a point of relaxing.

To dive right in, follow these steps: Set a timer for 10, 15 or even 20 minutes (or you can keep an eye on the clock).

Sit comfortably in a chair with your feet grounded and back straight and supported, and gently close your eyes, Subramoniam says. You can also sit on the ground and use a yoga mat, if you prefer.

“Take a few long and full breaths, and exhale slowly until the entire air goes out each time,” he says. “Go through all the body parts mentally and relax them consciously. Listen to all the sounds that you are hearing, like sound of traffic, people talking or music.”

Next, feel the sensation of touch between the body and the chair at all contact points, he says. “Feel the movement of air in and out at the tip of the nose first, then at the throat, and then feel the rising and falling of chest and abdomen,” he says. “Then look into the space in front of the closed eyes and just observe the thoughts and emotions.”

Then wait and watch the natural breathing of the body without disturbing its natural rhythm. After one breath, there will be a gap, and the next breath will start. This is the natural breathing of the body.

Now focus on the gaps.

the wristbands, but once they realized how easy it is, they loved it.

With these bands, they have more flexibility to work out when I’m not in the wellness center earlier or later in the day.”

So far, about 20 independent living residents use the HUR wristbands at Smith Village. Others still work out and take fitness classes.

Well over half of Smith Village independent living residents participate in the wellness program.

Before enrolling in either Smith community’s onsite fitness program, residents must obtain a doctor’s okay. And before using exercise equipment or signing up for exercise classes, residents meet with wellness coordinators who evaluate their ability to balance and move freely. The coordinators rely on fitness assessment tests recommended by the National Institute on Aging.

The “Timed Up and Go” times how long it takes a person to rise from a seated position using their legs only. Standing up from a chair can take more time as people age.

Older adults who have lost significant core strength sometimes must make several attempts or resort

to pushing themselves up while gripping chair arms.

The “Functional Reach” test measures how far a person can reach with outstretched arms while feet remain firmly planted. As people age, their reach—or margin of stability—declines. For example, women from age 20 to 40 can generally reach about 14.5 inches.

Women in their 80s may only be able to reach 10 inches.

The wellness coordinators also use the timed balance test, which measures how long a person can stand on one foot, another ability that declines with age.

These assessments are simple, but they’re important because they expose how easily a person moves, their core strength and their level of stability.

“Strong, capable muscles provide better stability, reducing risks of falls and fractures that can lead to other health problems,” said Wesley. “Older adults are less likely to fall if they’re performing physical activities on a regular basis. These tests enable us to see where the person can start, so they’re not pushing themselves too far out of their comfort zone

and becoming frustrated. Instead, they’re building on their abilities.”

Like Wesley, Smith Crossing wellness coordinator Michael Clemens believes annual checkups and fitness assessments are a vital part of preventative care for residents of the life plan community located at 10501 Emilie Lane in Orland Park.

“I think it’s very important to have an annual examination by a physician, and to have an assessment by a personal trainer,” Clemens said. “The big advantage for Smith Crossing residents is that they have access to these meaPhotos by Waldemar Reichert sures as guidelines for tracking and improving health and fitness Left: Smith Village Wellness Coordinator Karinna Wesley sees residents embracing new technology to monitor fitness gains. Right: Smith Crossthroughout the year.”

Smith Senior Living, a notfor-profit organization serving older adults, sponsors two life plan communities located in the Southwest sector of Metropolitan Chicago: Smith Village in Chicago’s Beverly neighborhood and Smith Crossing in Orland Park, Ill. An innovative leader providing the finest services and care for

seniors, Smith established its first community in 1924, on the same city block where Smith Village stands today.

Both LPCs provide spacious, independent living residences and apartments for assisted living, as well as memory support and skilled nursing care. In addition, they offer short-term rehab

programs for residents and others who have had surgery or a medical incident.

For more information about how Smith Senior Living can help seniors enjoy their retirement, contact Smith Crossing at 708-326-2308 or SmithCrossing. org, and Smith Village at 773-4747303 or SmithVillage.org.

When the timer dings (keep the volume at the bare minimum), slowly move your toes first, then fingers, and then rub your palms together so you generate some

friction. “Cup your eyes and feel the heat, feel the face, and look into the dark space in front of the eyes for some time, and then gently open the eyes,” he says. “Sit

relaxed in the chair for few minutes to evaluate the experience.”

You just mediated.

Looking toward the future, Jona Genova, who’s based in southern

California and has been teaching meditation for more than 10 years, “can’t wait for the day when we view meditation as a form of hygiene — as a way of being a

healthy human,” she says. “We touch in on and develop what makes us human, and in that process, we also take better care of our vehicles — our bodies.”

About Smith Senior Living

ing fitness coordinator Michael Clemens sees innovation as a means of improving service to residents.

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