Forest Park Review 051822

Cannabis coming to Madison street?

F O R E S T PA R K

ForestParkReview.com Vol. 105, No. 20

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REVIEW

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MAY 18, 2022

District 91 board to close GrantWhite, hold off on Betsy Ross

Time needed to assess impact on special needs students cited

@FP_Review @ForestParkReview

Exit Strategy: Staying put Chris and Katherine Valleau celebrate 7th anniversary PAGE 9

By IGOR STUDENKOV Staff Reporter

Forest Park School District 91’s board of education unanimously approved the scaled-back version of its school closure and restructuring plans, deciding Thursday night to close Grant-White Intermediate School, 147 Circle Ave. and to leave Betsy Ross Primary School, 1315 Marengo Ave., open for at least another school year. At the start of the 2022-2023 school year, Grant-White students will shift to Field-Stevenson Elementary School, 925 Beloit Ave., and Grant-White teachers will be transferred to Field-Stevenson. The board decided not to send all fifth graders to Forest Park Middle School, also at 925 Beloit Ave. Plans to move all preschool and kindergarten students to Garfield Elementary School, 543 Hannah Ave. are on hold as well. The district plans to use the Grant-White building for events, and board members expressed hope that enrollment numbers will increase to the point where it will become necessary to See GRANT-WHITE on page 6

IN Big Week . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8 THIS ISSUE Crime . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Opinion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

John Rice: The man behind the monument

Jill Wagner: Mark Grzelak rocks Sox park

Classified . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

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Forest Park Review, May 18, 2022

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Six-story U-Haul project gets OK at Harlem and Harrison Commission signs off on 1,066 storage units; needs council approval By IGOR STUDENKOV Staff Reporter

The Forest Park Planning and Zoning Commission voted unanimously May 16 to recommend allowing the construction of a 6-story, 126,429 square foot U-Haul personal storage facility at 7209 Harrison Street, across the street from the existing rental and storage facility at 801 S. Harlem Ave. U-Haul currently uses that lot, which is wedged between Harlem Avenue, CSX railroad tracks/Eisenhower Expressway, Harrison Street and the Ferrara Candy Company, 7301 Harrison St., to store trucks, and it used a 9,819 square foot, one-story building as the truck fueling and maintenance facility until February 2021. U-Haul officials framed it as a way to get a better use out of the property they describe as underutilized, creating 1,066 new storage units. Company representatives told the commission that it wouldn’t be the largest facility in the Chicago area, let alone in the state. While the zoning commission recommended approval, they added a condition that required U-Haul to work with the village building department to figure out ways to add more greenery and aesthetically pleasing fencing on the Harlem Avenue side. As commission chair Marsha East put it, Harlem Avenue was Forest Park’s front door, and they wanted visitors to get a good

impression. The village council is expected to vote on the proposal during one of its June meetings. The building would go up at the northwest portion of the property, and the truck storage spaces will be moved to the east side, near Harlem Avenue. According to the proposal submitted to the village, the new facility would operate around the clock, and customers would need to use key cards to gain entry. The U-Haul traffic study estimates, based on experience with storage facilities of similar size, that the building would have an average of 36 “check-ins” per day, with up to 11 check-ins at the same time during the peak hours of operations. Rick Rottweiler, district vice president for U-Haul’s Chicago service area, said that they expect the construction to take around 15 months. Throughout the meeting, several zoning commissioners expressed concern about the impact on traffic, especially during construction, given that the trucks and construction equipment would need to use Harrison Street to enter the site. Rottweiler said that he would work with the contractor to minimize the impact, and he said that the new site layout will give trucks more room to maneuver. Resident Monica Berns said that, with the warehouse’s proximity to the Harlem Blue Line ‘L’ station, “where there’s a lot of

homelessness and drug use,” and the presence of homeless encampments on the other side of the expressway, would mean that some of those individuals would “tailgate” – that is, follow people who swipe in. She was worried that this would create safety issues and “destroy” the building restrooms. Rottweiler said every door in the building requires the key card, they have multiple security cameras and a system in place that will raise alarms if someone stays for more than two hours. There are also call boxes on each floor. “We take our security very seriously,” he said. However, Rottweiler said that, aside from the U-Haul store employee on site during the day and maintenance staff, the security system is monitored remotely at night. East said that she supported fencing off the site – otherwise, people would cut through the parking lot – she wanted something better than a simple chain-link fence. “You have to realize -- this is an entrance to Forest Park, and this is an opportunity to showcase yourself,” she said. “Right now, you encase yourself in asphalt, and it isn’t warm, it isn’t inviting.” Buildings department director Steve Glinke said the strip of greenery on the

RENDERING PROVIDED

Harlem Avenue side belongs to Cook County, which goes back to the expressway construction, so both U-Haul and the village have no say over what happens to it. But they would still have control over what happens to the fencing closer to the intersection, and on the Harrison side. Benjamin Shock, U-Haul’s head of marketing for the Chicago area, said that the company was receptive to the idea of improving fencing and potentially adding greenery, since, as a company whose business involves helping people move, they appreciated the value of being welcoming. “We understand all of those concerns, we really do, we want to make this work for everybody,” Rottweiler added.

Forest Park may allow cannabis dispensaries on Madison Street Zoning change urged as pot proves it generates taxes not crime By IGOR STUDENKOV Staff Reporter

Forest Park’s Planning & Zoning Commission voted unanimously to recommend allowing cannabis dispensaries to open “by right” in downtown Forest Park instead of making the applicants go through a zoning hearing and seek village council approval on a case-by-case basis. Steve Glinke, the village’s director of building, planning and zoning, framed it is a way to attract businesses that bring

in higher sales tax revenue than any other sales tax producing business in the village. When recreational cannabis use was legalized at the start of 2020, he said, the village had concerns about adverse social impacts, but, looking at Oak Park and other neighboring villages showed that those fears were overblown. Glinke said that given the existing limitations on how close dispensaries can be to each other, the fact that the state can only have up to 500 cannabis licenses at any time and that dispensaries don’t like over-

saturating the market, he doesn’t expect Madison Street to get many takers. He told the Review that he expects the council to vote on changing the regulations in June. Under the current zoning code, cannabis dispensaries are allowed by right in industrial areas, but they are a conditional use in all commercial districts. The proposed zoning amendment wouldn’t affect the commercial areas outside the Downtown Business District, which encompasses the Madison Street corridor. The Planning & Zoning Commission inherited the Zoning

Board of Appeals’ responsibility for reviewing any proposed zoning code changes, but the village council still has the final say over zoning code changes. Karuna Ventures cannabis cultivation and dispensary company has been looking to set up a cannabis cultivation and dispensary facility at 1401 Circle Ave., which is zoned for industrial use. While the company got the state craft grower and infuser licenses, it doesn’t have a dispensary license, according to the state licensing portal. See CANNABIS on page 5

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Forest Park Review, May 18, 2022

Forest Park Tap Room, Crystal Car Wash hearings delayed In unrelated cases, applicants attorneys’ seek delays By IGOR STUDENKOV Staff Reporter

The hearing that would decide whether Forest Park Tap Room, 7321 Madison St., would keep its liquor license and a separate zoning hearing on whether Crystal Car Wash, 901 S. Harlem Ave., would be able to expand to a nearby property have both been delayed. Mayor Rory Hoskins, who also acts as the village’s liquor commission, is set to consider whether to renew Tap Room bar’s liquor license after Forest Park Police Chief Kenneth Gross filed a complaint in late April. The complaint cited Tap Room’s alleged repeated failure to control crowds and prevent fights, as well as violating COVID-19 related capacity restrictions. Gross also alleged that the bar owners lied to the village about their plans for the Tap Room

and their history of operating a bar in the city of Berwyn. The hearing was originally scheduled for May 11 at 11 a.m. It was rescheduled to May 23 at 10 a.m. at the request of Tap Room’s attorneys. Meanwhile, the Crystal Car Wash is looking to expand across Lexington Street, building a 14-stall self-serve automobile vacuum facility at 7201 Lexington St. The Forest Park municipal code doesn’t allow businesses to make noise that “disturb[s] the peace” between 7 p.m. and 6 a.m. though Crystal Car Wash’s existing vacuums are grandfathered in. Residents living near the proposed site previously expressed concerns about the noise caused by the vacuums. Crystal Car Wash is proposing putting in “sound attenuation fencing” that, it claims, would not only buffer the sound of the vacuums, but

ALEX ROGALS/Staff Photographer

Crystal Car Wash on Harlem Avenue in Forest Park would reduce the traffic noise coming from Harlem Avenue. The Planning and Zoning Commission and the village council will need to approve the site plan, including the sound buffers, before the car wash can proceed with construction.

According to the village website, that item was continued to the future meeting at Crystal Car Wash attorney’s request. Unlike the Tap Room case the date for when that item might be continued to have not been set.

Village council takes hard line on entertainment applications Council expects more details on planned music in applications By IGOR STUDENKOV Staff Reporter

Forest Park’s Village Council sent a clear message during its May 9 meeting – it is losing patience with bars submitting entertainment license applications that are too broadly worded. During the April 11 meeting, the council took issue with applications submitted by two bars owned by Lynn Sorice -- Pioneer Tap, 7445 Randolph St., and Shortstop Lounge, 7425 Madison St. – but they simply held off the vote until the next meeting. During the May 9 meeting, the council once again took issue with the Shortstop Lounge application and raised another issue with Doc Ryan’s bar, 7432 Madison St., which is owned by Matt Sullivan. But this time, the council rejected the applications outright – while still giving the applicants time to file new applications.

Forest Park municipal code requires liquor license holders to apply for an entertainment license if they want to “sponsor, conduct, or permit entertainment.” The village stepped up enforcement of that provision in mid-2021. Oct. 12, 2021, the village overhauled that section, explicitly adding DJs, karaoke events and band performances to the definition of “entertainment” and requiring that indoor entertainment end no later than 11 p.m. But it left some ambiguities. Most notably, the zoning code doesn’t explicitly define the term “DJ’s.” The council previously indicated that, while they didn’t want to regulate a bar employee playing music from a laptop or a phone, they did want to regulate professional DJs. During the May 9 meeting, the council rejected Doc Ryan’s application because, on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays, the

business asked to be able to have DJs play from 9 p.m. until 1 a.m. – well past the 11 p.m. time limit. As for Shortstop’s latest application, Commissioner Joe Byrnes agued that the request to “play live music from a laptop or have acoustical live music” on Friday evenings and weekends was too broad. He felt that they should be specific about which type of performance will happen at what time. “I think they have to specifically put in the application, when they’re going to have an acoustic guitar player or when they’re going to have laptop,” Byrnes said. Commissioner Jessica Voogd said that she personally found even the “play[ing] the music from the laptop” language too vague, since it could be a bar employer or a professional DJ. Mayor Rory Hoskins, who also serves as the village’s liquor license commissioner,

said that Sorice should have known better than to leave any ambiguities. “We’ve indicated to the licensees that we want a certain level of specificity, and some of them, for whatever reason, are resistant,” he said. “We don’t have to approve this application. It’s up for your consideration. I think sometimes they submit these out of abundance of caution, they don’t want to be shut down. But if they don’t provide enough information for council pleasure, we don’t have to approve it.” Commissioners Maria Maxham and Ryan Nero suggested approving the application with amendments, to allow one or the other, but the rest of the council members weren’t interested in that, and they joined the other commissioners in denying the application. Sorice didn’t respond to a request for comment by deadline.

Forest Park Review, May 18, 2022

Signs for Change Arts Alliance and Juneteenth Committee co-sponsor May 22 event By TOM HOLMES Contributing Reporter

When some want to explain their inactivity in response to the big issues of our time, they often say, “The problems are great but what can one person do?” Allison Holman isn’t buying that. In 2020 she was new in town, having just moved here from Dallas, and observed that Forest Park is “a very artsy community with solid people.” She also dived right into activism, participating in the Black Lives Matter marches downtown. It was while she was participating in those demonstrations that she conceived a vision for her newly adopted community. “Especially in the political climate of 2020 which was so divisive,” she recalled, “it was nice to see everybody come together. So I imagined everybody in Forest Park putting their passion into creating something that would be beautiful and that they could display in their yards or their windows that would be a visual representation of how they feel.” At that point the vision was still gestating. She called her Realtor, April Baker, who connected her to Lin Beribak a co-chair of the Forest Park Arts Alliance, who immediately liked the idea. Beribak knew what to do on the art side, but needed help with the diversity part, so she called Marjorie Adam Clark, who co-chairs the Juneteenth Committee, and the three women birthed the event scheduled for Sunday, May 22 at Reiger Park, which they’re calling Signs for Change. Clark said, “Juneteenth is Mayor Hoskins’ baby and Signs for Change is Allison’s baby. We — the Arts Alliance, the Juneteenth Committee and the whole village — have to take care of this baby and help it grow.” Like all visions in the “toddler” stage, Signs for Change is still a work in progress. Beribak, for example, has a wish list of things she would like to see happen to make the dream a reality: § food vendors like Smokey Joel’s hot dogs and Brown Cow ice cream § refreshments § parking § tents (in case of rain) § Kribi Coffee § music (a band or maybe a DJ) § speakers (short talks on the meaning of Juneteenth)

§ Black businesses since it’s a Juneteenth event So far the park district is letting Signs for Change use Reiger Park rent free and is providing the tents without charge, while Sarah’s Inn is letting the group use their parking lot across the street. Smokey Joel, however, was already booked, so the search for food vendors continues. Beribak hopes residents will offer their time and talents. From an artist’s perspective, the event at 1526 Circle, will begin at 1 p.m. and end at 4. As participants enter the park, they will receive a blank yard sign which they will be free to decorate any way they want — in the tradition of the Cover the Rust project on the Circle bridge — keeping with the Juneteenth theme of freedom and inclusion. Holman emphasized that people don’t have to be artistic to participate. Stencils will be available for drawing letters and a few signs will be already made up to give participants ideas and inspiration. “We’ll have the Juneteenth flag,” Beribak added, “and 24 packs of multicolored markers available. For those who register in advance on Eventbrite, the cost per sign is $10 and for those who come on the day of the event the cost is $15. “We’re hoping people register in advance so we don’t run out of signs and supplies or over-purchase. Metal frames will be available for those who want to plant their sign in their front yard.” The Arts Alliance has kicked in $500 as seed money, and sponsors are, of course, welcome. Beribak said the Arts Alliance is depending on Clark to create ways to tell the Juneteenth story and Clark said the Juneteenth Committee is looking to the artists in town to help participants imagine what our community might look like. Clark said, “I think artists have a way of being forerunners of a lot of movements. They help us catch a glimpse of a better reality, of a better version of ourselves. We think of racism as a structural issue, but you can’t change policy until the people in power change their hearts and minds.” To quote Robert Kennedy, “Some see things as they are, and say why. I dream of things that never were, and say why not.” For information regarding the event or getting involved, use the email address forestparkarts@gmail.com with Juneteenth in the reference line.

F O R E S T PA R K

CANNABIS

Planning & zoning recommends from page 3

During the Sept. 12, 2019 hearing on how Forest Park would handle the impending recreational cannabis legalization, residents raised concerns about public health issues, education and outreach, safety surrounding the facility itself and whether it would be a strain on the local police department. Glinke told the Planning & Zoning Commission that the hearings “offered a lot of hyperbole, the fear of the unknown.” Given the unprecedented nature of the legalization, it made sense for Forest Park to be cautious, he said. Since then, the village had a chance to look at dispensaries in Oak Park, Melrose Park, Elmwood Park and Chicago, and consult with the neighboring police departments. The safety concerns, Glinke said, simply didn’t pan out. He also pointed out that, as a non-home rule municipality, Forest Park’s sales tax revenue was limited. “Marijuana generates a 5% sales tax, which is over what Forest Park is allowed to charge in the absence of the home rule authority,” Glinke said. “It’s a cash cow, and I think the boogieman is gone.” Under the state law, dispensaries must be at least 1,500 feet apart. While equity applicants – applicants who could show they were negatively impacted by anti-cannabis laws – could apply to have that cap lifted, Glinke said that he doesn’t foresee an influx of dispensaries. “Frankly, they want to go where there’s no competition,” he said. “This is not McDonald’s, this is not Walgreens.” Glinke also said that a dispensary would want a decent amount of parking. “If [the customers] don’t have place to park, they don’t want to open there,” he said. “It’s kind of simple. [That’s] one of biggest concerns that was expressed by the dispensaries.”

REVIEW Reporter Igor Studenkov Director of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Michael Romain Senior Editor Bob Uphues Digital Publishing & Technology Manager Briana Higgins Contributing Reporters Tom Holmes, John Rice, Bob Skolnik, Jackie Glosniak, Robert J. Lifka Columnists Alan Brouilette, Jill Wagner, Tom Holmes, John Rice Food Editor Melissa Elsmo Big Week Editor James Porter Staff Photographer Alex Rogals Design/Production Manager Andrew Mead Editorial Design Manager Javier Govea Designer Susan McKelvey Sales and Marketing Representatives Lourdes Nicholls, Marc Stopeck, Kamil Brady Development Manager Mary Ellen Nelligan Development & Sales Coordinator Stacy Coleman Circulation Manager Jill Wagner Editor and Publisher Dan Haley Business Manager Joyce Minich

Board of Directors Chair Judy Greffin Treasurer Nile Wendorf Deb Abrahamson, Gary Collins, Darnell Shields, Sheila Solomon, Eric Weinheimer HOW TO REACH US ADDRESS 141 S. Oak Park Ave., Oak Park, IL 60302 PHONE 708-366-0600 ■ FAX 708-467-9066 EMAIL forestpark@wjinc.com CIRCULATION Jill@oakpark.com ONLINE ForestParkReview.com TWITTER @FP_Review Postmaster: Please send address changes to: Forest Park Review,141 S. Oak Park Ave., Oak Park, IL 60302-2901. Periodical rate postage paid at Oak Park, IL (USPS No 0205-160) In-county subscriptions: $30 per year. $44 for two years, $60 for three years. Out-of-county subscriptions: $38 per year. Forest Park Review is published digitally and in print by Growing Community Media NFP. © 2022 Growing Community Media NFP.

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Forest Park Review, May 18, 2022

GRANTWHITE

Board waits on Betsy Ross from page 1 reopen the facility as a school again. During the May 12 board meeting, board president Kyra Tyler attributed adoption of this hybrid plan to feedback the board received during community hearings, which saw teachers and parents raise concerns about whether the plan meets the needs of special education students. The district framed the changes as a delay to give the district more time to address those concerns. The district hopes to implement the remaining changes at the start of the 2023-2024 school year. The original proposal presented during April 30, May 3 and May 5 community meetings called for closing Grant-White because of low enrollment and Betsy Ross because of overcrowding. Superintendent Dr. Elizabeth Alvarez argued that with the enrollment numbers declining in most schools, it made sense to have one preschool, one elementary school and one junior high. It would also improve teacher collaborations and keep students together as they make their way through the school system. Alvarez told the Review that the board always planned to have a vote in either May

or June. While the May agenda mentioned a vote on school closure, it didn’t elaborate on what the board would be voting on. Throughout the public hearings, parents, teachers and residents urged the district to hold off making any decision until at least the 2023-2024 school year and to get input from all the stakeholders. Residents living near Betsy Ross argued that the school was an important community asset. Meeghan Binder, president of the Forest Park Education Association faculty and staff union, said her members had concerns about scheduling for individual grade levels, the building capacities under the fire code and the logistics of busing. Teachers and therapists raised concerns about whether the schools would have spaces to meet the needs of special education students. During the May 12 meeting, Alvarez said she thought taking more time with the postponed elements of the proposal would be the best course of action, and that she was confident that Field-Stevenson would be able to pull off the transition. Board members all made similar arguments, saying it made no sense to keep Grant-White open given the enrollment trends and the fact that they would need to hire a principal and secretary if the school was kept open. Several said it is the students and the teachers, not a building, which makes a school community, and that they preferred to frame the process not as

IGOR STUDENKOV/Staff Reporter

IGOR STUDENKOV/Staff Reporter

The D91 school board listens to parents (lower left) at a recent forum at Betsy Ross school. a school closing, but as a transition. “It is critical for everyone to understand that our kids are listening to adults,’ said board vice-president Shannon Wood. “How we talk about it [will affect] how it makes our children feel.” Board member Monique CottonYancy said she supported taking more time to look at the needs of special education students, saying that the stakes were too important. “I know we can move kids into Field,” she said. “I don’t see the harm in waiting a year to [close] Betsy-Ross, to make sure we’re checking every single box, and even double-checking.” Board member Katherine Valleau, a former teacher, said that she was excited to see what will come out of Field-Stevenson. “The education that our children are going to get, it’s going to be wonderful,” she said. “The cohesion along great levels, the collaboration among teachers, it’s going to pan out beautifully.” Later during the same meeting, the board unanimously approved making school buses free and available to all families. “We want to offer that opportunity for everyone,” Tyler said. “This will be optional, opt-in process.”

L E T T E R

Proper drug disposal available The Forest Park Police Department is committed to ensuring our community is a safe place for everyone, and to that end we actively support residents’ ability to properly dispose of expired or unused medications. While the DEA hosts two National Prescription Drug Take Back Days each year in April and October, there is no need to wait for these events to clean out your medicine cabinets. At the Forest Park Police Department, we accept old medicines, both over the counter and prescription for proper disposal. Residents are encouraged to bring in their medicines and turn them over to one of our officers. We accept pills, but we cannot accept biohazards such as used sharps. Additionally, the Cook County MEDS Disposal Initiative maintains a website with all the secure disposal locations in the county. There are over 200 sites in Cook County, and we encourage everyone to visit the website to find the police station, pharmacy or even courthouse disposal site that works best for them. Prompt and proper disposal of medications reduces the chances that they will be diverted to misuse or abuse.

Forest Park Police Department

Forest Park Review, May 18, 2022

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O B I T U A R I E S

Gene Fedorski, 86 Accomplished accordionist Eugene Joseph Fedorski, 86 years young, of North Riverside, formerly of Forest Park, died peacefully at home, surrounded by family, on May 13, 2022. Gene was a lifelong, accomplished accordionist and music teacher, who, at an early age, won the Morsby Sax talent show on WGN. He brought music alive to those from all walks of life, including a former U.S. President, former Illinois Governor, and his most precious audience, his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He was a snappy dresser, loved a good McDonald’s vanilla milkshake, and lived to serve his family. One of his greatest joys was cheering on his kids and grandkids at their many sporting events and extra-curricular activities throughout their school years. During his retirement he enjoyed golfing with his wife and family and vacationing with them in Siesta Key, Florida and Lake Geneva, Wisconsin. He was chauffeur extraordinaire for his grandkids and many of their friends, neighbors and classmates. Quietly faithful, he lived life with a servant’s heart — always generous to those in need, rooting for the underdog, helping those who could not help themselves. A sensitive soul, he would cry at commercials, movies and momentous life events. He was a member of the American Accordion Club, a popular employee at the Chicago Board of Trade and a longtime member of Christ Church of Oak Brook. An Illinois National Guard Veteran, in his final act of generosity, his body will be donated to the Anatomical Society. Gene Fedorski was the husband and best friend of Mary Fran (nee Halpin) for 53 years; the father of Jim (Kim) Fedorski, Maggie (Bob) Filec, Tim (Amy) Fedorski and Dan (Dana) Fedorski; Grandpa “Geno” of Emily (Jeremy) Bernas, Robby (Sarah) Filec, Frankie (Coco Murray) Filec, Mary Filec, Kenny and Katie Fedorski, Meghan, Hayley, Will and Brynn Fedorski and Abigail, Madison, Daniel, Davis, Benjamin, Samuel, Caroline and Camden Fedorski;

and great-grandpa “Juju” of Francesca and Nora Bernas. He was the son of the late Joseph and Ann (nee Gush) Fedorski; brother of the late Joanne Cesare; brotherin-law of Susanne (Peter) O’Malley, Jeannine (Bill) Havlik, Nancy Kay (the late Tom) Haran, Margie Callahan and Michael (Marge) Halpin; and the uncle and greatuncle of many nieces and nephews. A celebration of life will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Friday, May 20, at Palos Community Church, 12312 S. 88th Ave., Palos Park, IL 60464. Memorial donations to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital would be appreciated. Arrangements were handled by Kuratko-Nosek Funeral Home, North Riverside.

Park, Craig is survived by eight of his siblings and their spouses, Susan (Robert) Drane, Nancy Jackson, the late Donald (Nadine) Thompson, Michael (Mary Ann) Thompson, Mary Thompson, Patricia (John) Harvey, Dennis Thompson, James Thompson (Diane Kelley), and Joan (the late John) Backes. Other survivors include 13 nieces and nephews, and 18 great-nieces and great-nephews, including the family of his nephew, Tim Drane (Heidi, and children Quentin, Greta, and Natalie).

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Craig Thompson, 71 Building engineer, Euclid Ave. Methodist Church Craig George Thompson, 71, died suddenly but peacefully in his sleep, at home in Oak Park on May 2, 2022. He served as building engineer at Euclid Avenue United Methodist Church in Oak Park and was devoted to that congregation, including to its minister and his dear friend, Rev. Marti Scott. With steadfast dedication, he managed the maintenance and improvement of the church buildings and grounds with skill, and was central to the church’s work of serving others, protecting the Earth, and loving God. Following in the footsteps of his father, he was an excellent athlete, playing baseball and football as a youth. A graduate of Oak Park and River Forest High School, he served honorably in the U.S. Army in the mid-1970s, stationed in Germany for several years. Before finding Euclid Avenue United Methodist, he was a go-to resource around Oak Park for anyone in need of household or business maintenance. His facility with language helped him land on the name “Home Work” for his operation. He enjoyed tinkering with cars with his pals at the Oak Park Auto Repair shop. He was an avid reader of military history; a committed, but awful golfer; and a lifelong sufferer, rooting for the Chicago Bears and White Sox. The fifth child of 10 born to Joan (nee Horan) and Donald Thompson of Oak

A service celebrating the life of Craig Thompson will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, May 21, at Euclid Avenue United Methodist Church, 405 S. Euclid Ave., Oak Park, IL 60302. Visitation with the family starts at 10:30 a.m. at the church. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in Craig’s memory to the Craig Thompson Memorial Fund at Euclid Avenue United Methodist Church. Arrangements were handled by Peter B. Kennedy & Co., Funeral Directors.

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Forest Park Review, May 18, 2022

May 18-25

BIG WEEK Virtual Or In-Person: Meet With An Employment Specialist Thursday, May 19, 10:30 a.m., Forest Park Public Library (Community Room) Meet one-on-one virtually or in-person with a career search professional, Diana Munoz from Goodwill, who will help you formulate a plan and determine the best course of action to secure the best possible position. 7555 Jackson Blvd., Forest Park.

Signs For Change Sunday, May 22, 1 - 4 p.m., Reiger Park The Forest Park Juneteenth Committee, in conjunction with the Forest Park Alliance, are launching this year’s Juneteenth celebration with a community art event. You can create your own Juneteenth-inspired sign at this family-friendly event. Refreshments will be available for purchase from Robinson’s Ribs and the Brown Cow Ice Cream Parlor and Living Fresh. Art supplies and blank signs are provided. $10 per ticket in advance, $15 the day of the event. Circle Ave. at 16th Street, Forest Park.

What’s Blooming On Harrison Saturday, May 21, 11 a.m. - 7:30 p.m., Oak Park Arts District This all-day community festival features arts, crafts, food, beer, rides for the kids, and live entertainment, ranging from choral to acoustic to punk. And one of those punk acts is Chicago’s own veteran ’80s rock band, Barbie Army, featuring Jean Lotus, former editor of the Forest Park Review. Harrison Street between Austin and Ridgeland, Oak Park.

Listing your event Mystery Discussion Group Saturday, May 21, 2 p.m., Centuries & Sleuths Bookstore Marsha Boblitz leads a discussion of Mia Manansala’s Homicide & Halo-Halo. 7419 W. Madison, Forest Park.

Forest Park Review welcomes notices about events that Forest Park groups and businesses are planning. We’ll work to get the word out if you let us know what’s happening by noon Wednesday a week before your news needs to be in the newspaper. ■ Send details to Wednesday Journal, 141 S. Oak Park Ave., Oak Park, 60302 ■ Email calendar@wjinc.com

Forest Park Review, May 18, 2022

7 years, no itch for Exit Strategy Brewing Company couple’s strategy includes no exit By JOHN RICE Contributing Reporter

It takes guts for someone to quit their steady day job to launch their own business. But that’s what Chris and Katherine Valleau did when they started Exit Strategy Brewing Co., 7700 Madison St. Forest Park’s only brewery opened its doors on April 15, 2015. The couple recently celebrated its seventh anniversary with their staff. Before they launched their business, the Valleaus had lived in Forest Park for 12 years. Katherine is originally from Detroit and Chris grew up in Cincinnati. They met as students at Ohio University. Katherine later earned master’s degrees in education at Dominican University and Concordia University, while Chris obtained his law degree from De Paul University. Katherine became a teacher for District 91 and currently serves on the school board. She spent seven years teaching fifth grade, before succeeding Anne Murray as the district’s Latin teacher. Chris joined a law firm that specialized in subrogation. He was making a good living but wasn’t happy in his work. Katherine felt he needed a hobby, a creative outlet apart from practicing law. In 2012, she suggested brewing beer and the couple bought four home brewing kits. “Chris picked it up quickly,” Katherine recalled. “The first batch won a homebrewing contest in the fruit beer category.” His Persephone brew also won an award. He continued to enter contests across the country and received positive responses from the judges. During this time, the Valleaus were content serving their homemade beer to neighbors in The Grove. Then they visited Greenbush Brewery in Sawyer, Michigan and realized, “We can do this.” They purchased a book titled, How to Start a Brewery, and spent two years drafting a business plan. They found a location within walking distance of their home. Classic Electric had gone out of business and the building sat vacant for 10 years. It had a mold problem and needed asbestos removal. “The skylights were hanging,” Katherine recalled. It took them six months to renovate the 10,000-square-foot building. They named it Exit Strategy and a graphic artist created the memorable logo,

depicting a briefcase in a waste basket. The brewery boasted a 4,000-square-foot tap room, a kitchen and a full basement. It also had a parking lot. “The first two years were rough,” Katherine recalled, “but the third year it got better.” As the business grew, the menu expanded and staff increased. The brewery developed a dozen “mainstays” with names like “Posthumulus” “Scotsquatch” and “Valleaudated,” while Chris continued to concoct new brews. They also started a “Mug Club,” offering perks and discounts to members. Five years is considered a benchmark for a brewery FILE and they were only a month Exit Strategy, 7700 Madison St, Forest Park. away from celebrating that anniversary when the pandemic hit. They had just hired Jessica Philips as general manager the Altenheim picnic grove and they atand she oversaw over 20 staff members. tached umbrellas to them. They kept this Then, on March 15, 2020, Gov. Pritzker an- “patio” open until October. nounced a statewide lockdown to contain At their low point, the staff was down the spread of COVID-19. to five, including the owners and general The couple was devastated when they manager. But they made enough profit had to lock the doors. “I was destroyed from outdoor dining and to-go orders to emotionally,” Katherine recalled, “But begin re-hiring staff. In April 2021, they rewe never considered shutting down.” The paved the parking lot and added new tables, brewery remained closed for two weeks. along with lighting and a sound system. During this hiatus, they gave the place a Throughout the pandemic, “Transparenthorough cleaning and assembled a supply cy and safety were paramount,” Katherine of gloves and masks. They were sad when said, “We put people over profit.” When inthey had to lay off staff but gave them go- door dining finally returned, they demanding-away gifts. “We had ‘grocery day’ and ed proof of vaccination, before it was manthey took home boxes of food,” Katherine dated by the state. “We received criticism recalled, as they cleared the brewery of ev- from ‘keyboard warriors’” Chris recalled. “There’s still some uncertainty about the ery food item. When they were allowed to reopen for virus,” Katherine admitted, “But we have to-go sales, Exit Strategy opened one day a a great staff, great food and great support week, selling growlers. “We weren’t doing from the community.” They’re back to full cans then,” said Chris, and they only sold strength staff-wise and recently hosted the new growlers, no refills. They later began wedding of Philips and her fiancé, Erin. selling canned beer and also sold merchan- “We’re in a really great position,” Katherdise, like “Survival Strategy” T-shirts. In ine declared, “Our beer program is growing. It’s the best it’s ever been.” July 2020, outdoor dining was permitted. “We’re a brewery,” she emphasized, “The parking lot was full of potholes,” said Katherine and it had no seating. The “We’re not a restaurant.” Cheers to that! village allowed them to borrow tables from

Seize the Spring After the longawaited arrival of spring, Mother Nature decided, seemingly overnight, to entirely skip the season and move directly from winter to summer. In all our years in the Scott industry, no one in McAdam Jr. our office can recall a spring that has been as delayed as this year. Redbuds just beginning to flower, bud break finally occurring after May 1st, and highs that barely broke 40 degrees at the end of April – these timelines are a month or so later than normal. Even forsythia, which normally blooms in late March and early April for up to two weeks, stayed in bloom for over a month! Fortunately, plants have a fascinating ability to adapt to these unpredictable and variable weather conditions. So, what should you be focused on for the coming month to bring out the best in your landscape? 1. Prune all flowering shrubs after they have completed flowering to ensure flower buds are not pruned off in the fall. This includes forsythia, lilacs, and viburnums. 2. If you haven’t reapplied mulch, mulching your beds will help retain moisture, limit weed growth, and regulate soil temperature. 3. Plant your vegetable garden! Temperatures are warm enough where your plants will stay happy and healthy. Follow these simple recommendations, and you will reap great rewards.

2001 Des Plaines Ave. Forest Park • 708-771-2299 www.mcadamlandscape.com

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Isaac Beal, 30 years a Neighborhood Watch stalwart, honored by village, police ‘Someone everyone in the village should be proud to know’ By IGOR STUDENKOV Staff Reporter

“Thank you,” Beal responded. “You are the greatest.” Later during the meeting, other commissioners offered him praise. “I would also like to say congratulations to Mr. Beal -- it is a lot of good work you put in this town,” said Commissioner Maria Maxham. “Thank you so much, Mr. Beal, for your service to community,” said Commissioner Jessica Voogd. “It’s really wonderful that you have this honor.” Forest Park police officer Tom Cannon, who heads the Neighborhood Watch program, later told the Review that in the 15 years he’s known Beal, he has come to rely on him, reflecting that he never missed a meeting or an event unless he was ill or had a family emergency.

Isaac Beal, a former Air Force pilot and CTA worker, was honored by the Forest Park village council and several Forest Park police officers on May 9 for his 30 years of service as a Neighborhood Watch Right at Home Oak Park Chicago Ambassador. 708.445.6000 During the village council meeting, offiwww.rahoakparkchicago.net cials praised Beal for his dedication to the program, and for sticking with it since the beginning. They expressed hope that the program could be reinvigorated, and they knew that the long-time neighborhood watch ambassador could be counted on to help make it happen. For his The right care can help seniors enjoy life part, Beal said he was humbled and grateful for the honor. in the comfort of a familiar environment, After the meeting, Beal shared and provide reassurance to loved ones. with the Review and Mayor Rory Hoskins stories about facing racCompanionship Companionship&&Light LightHousekeeping Housekeeping Daily DailyHealth HealthReminders Reminders ism in the South, his experiences Assist Assistwith withPersonal PersonalCare Care&&Hygiene Hygiene Assist Assistwith withErrands Errands&&Transportation Transportation in the U.S Air Force, the time he • Daily Health Reminders • Companionship Meal MealPlanning Planning &&Preparation Preparation Ambulation Ambulation &&Dressing DressingAssistance Assistance babysat future Chicago mayor Isaac Beal with his wife, Mary Beth Beal (center), &&Light Housekeeping Companionship Companionship &Light Light Housekeeping Housekeeping Daily Daily Health HealthReminders Richard. M. Daley and his work Transitional Transitional Care Care After After Hospitalization Hospitalization Safety Safety Supervision Supervision &Reminders &Assistance Assistance • Assist with Errands his daughter, Kate Beal and his granddaughter, on the CTA. But he declined to be & Transportation • Assist with Personal Care Assist Assistwith withPersonal Personal Care Care &&Hygiene Hygiene Assist Assistwith withErrands Errands&&Transportation Transportation Amelia (left), Officer Tom Cannon behind Kate, interviewed about his life. & Hygiene Daily Health Reminders • Companionship ••Ambulation & Dressing “He’s shy,” his wife, Mary Beth Mayor Hoskins and Police Chief Ken Gross. Meal MealPlanning Planning&&Preparation Preparation Ambulation Ambulation&&Dressing DressingAssistance Assistance Right atat•Home Home Oak OakPark Park& Chicago Chicago Assistance Meal Planning Beal, offered. &Right Light Housekeeping Transitional Transitional Care Care After AfterHospitalization Hospitalization Safety Safety Supervision Supervision AssistanceEveryone who spoke about Preparation • Assist with Errands &&Assistance 708.445.6000 708.445.6000 • Safety Supervision Isaac Beal, during and after the www.rahoakparkchicago.net “[Beal] has been a pillar of the commuTransportation • www.rahoakparkchicago.net Assist Personal Care &&Assistance •with Transitional Care After meeting, talked about his life experiences nity and someone everyone in the village Hospitalization & Hygiene and his character. Commissioner Joe Byshould be proud to know,” he said. eeping Daily Health Reminders • Ambulation & Dressing rnes, a former police officer and one-time Beal told the council that he was huminterim police chief, recalled that Beal Right Right at at Home Home Oak Oak Park Park Chicago Chicago Assistance • Meal Planning & bled and grateful for the recognition. giene Assist with Errands & Transportation was one of the eight original Neighbor“Thank you so much,” he said. “I just Preparation hood Watch members. He described Beal Right at Home Oak Park Chicago want to thank you for recognizing me toAmbulation & Dressing Assistance • Safety Supervision as an enthusiastic and driven volunteer www.rahoakparkchicago.net www.rahoakparkchicago.net day. I try to do what’s right for Forest Park. & Assistance Transitional Care After& Assistance who could always be counted on to man the zation •Safety Supervision I love Forest Park and I will continue to Companionship & Light Housekeeping Daily Health Reminders phones and get people out. Hospitalization that, for as long as I live, and I’m happy that Assist withwww.rahoakparkchicago.net Personal Care & Hygiene Assist with Errands & Transportation “Isaac, congratulations -- you are a great you decided that I deserve to be recognized Meal Planning & Preparation Ambulation & Dressing Assistance guy and I was happy to work with you all in some way.” Transitional Care After Hospitalization Safety Supervision & Assistance those years,” Byrnes said. Meal Planning & Preparation

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C R I M E

Suspect in multiple garage burglaries caught

Police arrested one of the two offenders who allegedly stole items from garages on the 500 block of Beloit Avenue. While they didn’t apprehend the second suspect, the arrest led to recovery of items from multiple garage burglaries throughout Forest Park. A witness who called in to the police said he spotted the two suspects when he stepped out onto his balcony on May 12 around 2:17 a.m. He said he witnessed two men in the gangway to 524 Ferdinand Ave., then walking down the north-south alley behind Ferdinand Avenue, looking into garages and parked car windows, heading toward 500 block of Beloit Avenue. The police officer dispatched in response to the call saw a red 2002 Ford pickup truck parked in the alley and spotted two suspects exiting the apartment building on the 500 block of Beloit Avenue. The first suspect, a 39-year-old Chicago man, was carrying an air-conditioner. As the officer exited the vehicle, the first suspect dropped the air-conditioner and the suspects fled in opposite directions on Beloit Avenue. Oak Park and Forest Park police officers arrived to assist. An Oak Park officer spotted the first suspect at the 7400 block of Madison Street alley, and several Oak Park police officers apprehended the suspect at 7450 Washington St. A search of the truck turned up multiple items. A local resident identified the air compressor, motorcycle helmet, and welding machine as belonging to her son, saying they were stored in her garage. The truck also had two air-conditioning units, multiple power tools, golf clubs, and “numerous other items.” The alleged culprit said he stole three air-conditioners from three garages, but claimed the garages were unlocked, so he didn’t physically break into them. Later that day, at 3:05 p.m., a resident of the 400 block of Circle Avenue reported that, when he went outside at 7:30 a.m., he saw that someone had shattered the driver’s side window of his pickup truck, pulled out the garage remote stored inside and opened the garage door then stole several unspecified items from inside the garage, leaving the garage door open. Several of those items were found in the red truck. On May 15, at 9:02 a.m., the resident of the 400 block of Hannah Avenue reported a garage burglary that happened at some

point while he was out of town between May 7 and May 15. The garage door was pried open, and two air-conditioning units, a small red air compressor and an old hatchet were stolen. Those items matched the unclaimed items collected from the truck. A River Forest police officer reported that a truck matching the description of the one found in the Ferdinand/Beloit alley was involved in a burglary in their village. The alleged offender was charged with two counts of burglary. The second suspect remains at large.

‘Rowdy’ funeral procession leads to reckless driving tickets A funeral procession that went through Maywood and Forest Park on the afternoon of May 14 included numerous instances of motorists driving recklessly, and one particularly dangerous incident, which got the car owners ticketed. The two villages and the surrounding towns were reportedly alerted of the funeral procession ahead of time. The police departments and the procession negotiated a route, with the Forest Park portion following Roosevelt Road to Desplaines Avenue, then north on Desplaines toward Forest Home Cemetery, 863 Desplaines Ave. Throughout the procession, several vehicles reportedly swerved in and out of eastbound and westbound lanes. On the 8400 block of Roosevelt Road, around 1:45 p.m., a burgundy 2019 Jeep Grand Cherokee reportedly swerved into oncoming traffic lanes, jumped the curb and drove along the sidewalk before reentering the procession. To avoid “agitating” the procession, the officer didn’t pull the car over, but issued a local ordinance violation ticket to both registered owners. These items were obtained from police reports filed by the Forest Park Police Department, May 9-15, and represent a portion of the incidents to which police responded. Unless otherwise indicated, anybody named in these reports has only been charged with a crime. These cases have not been adjudicated.

Compiled by Igor Studenkov

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Forest Park Review, May 18, 2022

Perfect Weather graced the 39th Hunger Walkathon West CROP Hunger Walkon Sunday May 1st. The Planning Team wishes to thank and bless the Team Captains and Participants who raised money for this annual event and the businesses and individual donors who supported them. Due to COVID concerns and to keep gathering numbers low, we did not hold a centralized walk but each team captain arranged an event for their team. Photos from various teams are included here. Recipients of the money raised in 2021include hungry and hurting people served by international relief and development programs of Church World Service and the following ten local agencies:Beyond Hunger, Cluster Tutoring Program, First Baptist Church of Melrose Park Food Pantry, Forest Park Food Pantry, Housing Forward, Pine Avenue Food Pantry, Proviso Food Pantry, Quinn Center of Saint Eulalia Hunger Ministries, St. Martin de Porres Food Pantry, and Vision of Restoration Food Pantry. These agencies provide services in the Austin neighborhood of Chicago, Oak Park, Forest Park, Maywood and Melrose Park. We are pleased to report that the amount raised to date is over $90,000. The 2021 Walk raised $134,000. The need continues and donations of any size are still welcome.

It’s not too late to donate! Just visit our website:hwwcrop.org and press the “DONATE NOW” button. THANKS TO: The following Businesses that provided financial and/or in-kind support: GOLD LEVEL: Remedial Environmental Manpower, Inc. Ideal Facilities Services Growing Community Media, NFP

SILVER LEVEL:

Team Captains and Walk Planning Team* Members Delrice Adams Lauren Brightmore Sara Catalano Marty Colchamiro* Bill Cragg Joanne Despotes* Ted Despotes Meghan Dowdle Mary Lou Dwyer* Karen Dylewski Brent Friesen Harriet Hawkins* Jerry Hills Rev. Tom Holmes* Frank Hughes Erik Johnson Laura Kliewer Ted Lietz Linda Martens

CLO Marketing, Inc. Weinstein Wholesale Meats M&M Property Management, Inc. Curfin Holding Company, Inc.

Todd & Holland Tea Merchants Mohr Oil Co. Matt Grote, Edward Jones Financial

BRONZE LEVEL:

ALL OTHER BUSINESS SPONSORSHIPS:

Forest Park Bank Downtown Oak Park Gagliardo Realty Co, Inc. Storino, Ramello & Durkin RP Fox and Assoc, Inc. Chosen Ones Learning Center

O’Sullivan’s Public House Forest Park Foot Care Center Forest Insurance Mr. Beef and Pizza of Forest Park David King & Associates, Inc. Louie’s Grill, Inc.

Charlaine McAnany Andrea McCoy Maxine McGhee Margie McKenzie Nick Menninga* Martha Minnich Cynthia Mobley* Karen Murphy Rev. Kathy Nolte John O’Rourke Amy Stearns Leon Williams Douglas Wyman* Liz Young Lynn Zamora Craig Zeller

Participating Teams (in addition to recipients): Ascension Catholic Church OP Euclid Ave United

Methodist Church OP First Baptist Church OP First United Church of Oak Park First United Methodist Church OP Good Shepherd Lutheran Church OP Hope Tabernacle Community Church – Hope in Motion May Day Marchers NAUW Ness Family Pilgrim Congregational OP Social Media St. Catherine-St. Lucy Parish OP St. Paul Thai Lutheran Church FP Team Carris Unity Church of Oak Park

Everett Wealth Solutions, Inc. Tim Stefl, Inc. Sales Directors, Inc. The Golden Triangle Elite Tire and Auto Service, Inc. McAdam Landscape Professionals Centuries & Sleuths Bookstore James Taglia CPA The Printing Store Archery Custom Shop, Inc.

The CROP Team wishes to acknowledge and thank

Growing Community Media, NFP/Wednesday Journal

for their many years of outstanding generosity and continual community support!

Forest Park Review, May 18, 2022

M

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The man behind the monument

any Forest Parkers miss artist/ activist Mark Rogovin, who died on Sept. 30, 2019. Mark accomplished so much during his 73 years. He went to Mexico to work with muralist David Alfaro Siqueiros on “March of Humanity,” the world’s largest mural. He came to Chicago in 1968 and founded the Public Art Workshop in a storefront at 5623 W. Madison Street. He was also a tireless champion of the Haymarket Martyrs Monument in Forest Home Cemetery. On May Day, there was a large rally at the monument, which included a fiery pro-labor speech by Forest Park’s Rich Lieb, a member of the Industrial Workers of the World. The Historical Society of Forest Park had a booth and distributed literature. Executive Director Alexis Ellis told the crowd about Mark’s dedication to preserving the monument and telling its story. Mark was instrumental in having stolen elements of the monument replaced and raising funds for the monument’s restoration. Whenever he spotted visitors at the monument, he would give them an impromptu tour. I often had lunch with him and Alexis and we never got through it without Mark mentioning the monument. At the May Day celebration, the Mark Rogovin Award was presented to Carol Gulyas, for her successful efforts to have the Illinois Department of Transportation install signs on I-290 directing travelers to the monument. The historical society created the award in 2020 to honor volunteers. Mark was a very dedicated volunteer. His legacy is currently being celebrated in an exhibit at the Uri-Eichen Gallery, 2101 S. Halsted Street, Chicago. The exhibit opened on May 13 with a program led by Rebecca Zorach, a professor at Northwestern University. Mark’s spouse, Michelle Mellin-Rogovin, introduced

Zorach, who spoke of Mark’s involvement with the Public Art Workshop in the Austin neighborhood. At the workshop, Mark created murals and sculptures honoring Civil Rights heroes like Fred Hampton, Paul Robeson and Angela Davis. He also recruited kids from the neighborhood for artistic projects. From 1972 to 1981, the workshop was alive with artistic activity. Zorach also screened a brief video of Mark painting one of his murals. Alexis provided the collection of Mark’s artwork, which cover the walls of the gallery. She had worked with him for 12 years, curating the photo collection of his renowned father, Milton Rogovin. Now she is curating Mark’s work. She will be at the gallery for their next program. On May 22 from 2 to 5 p.m., there will be a reception with the Illinois Labor History Society and our historical society titled, “The Statue behind the Man,” chronicling his dedication to the Haymarket monu-

JOHN RICE

ment. It will celebrate Mark’s roles as an artist, activist and historian of the people. Those who can’t attend can call the gallery at 312852-7717, to schedule an appointment to view his work. Or they can visit www.markrogovin.com for a retrospective on his career. Mark’s presence can still be felt at the monument, as his grave marker is only a few yards away. I felt his spirit on May Day. I miss Mark in many ways — as a friend, collaborator and correspondent. He loved Forest Park and its people and was constantly uncovering stories for me. He also enjoyed mentoring young people. Two young women at the opening of the exhibit, dementia researchers from the Fineberg School of Medicine, where Mark had been evaluated for frontotemporal dementia, wanted to know more about the man whose photo hangs in their lab. Before he died from the disease, he had declared, “I have memory loss but I’m a person who accomplished things.” You sure did, buddy.

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L O O K

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PROVIDED

Michelle Mellin-Rogovin honors her late husband, Mark Rogovin, at the Uri-Eichen Gallery, 2101 S. Halsted, Chicago.

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Embracing their strength, creating possibilities

W

hen Girl Scouts was founded in 1912 by Juliette Gordon Law, nicknamed “Daisy,” it didn’t take long for the trailblazing movement to make its way to Forest Park. Girl Scout Troop 33 started in 1929, just a decade after women were given the right to vote, and encouraged young girls to embrace their unique strengths and create their own possibilities. Troop 33 celebrated its 20th anniversary with “a festive program” at Betsy Ross School in May of 1949 with songs and skits. Twelve troop members and three leaders were featured in the Forest Park Review. Standing from left: Barbara Behn; Elaine Betian; Barbara Spurney; Mrs. Joseph Kos Jr.; Mrs. D. Leitch, troop leader; Mrs. E. Flight; Patsy Sommers; Joan Rsjsky; and Mary Ann Schmidt. Kneeling: Joyce Mickley, Barbara McWilliams, Blanche Kos, Mary Jane Crust, Joyce Watier, and Angeline Scolire.

Jill Wagner

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Forest Park Review, May 18, 2022

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Closing a school is only the first step

n the social media meeting after the public school board meeting in which District 91 board members voted unanimously to shutter Grant-White School by this fall, a school board member called his vote “the toughest vote I’ve ever cast.” That would be for sure. On the Review’s Facebook page, Steve Rummel also wrote, we’ve got “to make D91 a district people want to attend and remain in. … It will take everyone in town engaging to be successful.” While this page had urged the board to fully adopt Supt. Elizabeth Alvarez’s wider plan to also close Betsy Ross School at the same time, we don’t for a moment diminish the brave choice this board made in closing Grant-White. No one runs for a school board post because they want to take a critical institution out of a neighborhood. But two decades of declining enrollment made this decision at least a decade overdue. We were taken by Rummel’s thoughtful response, by the sense of the board that they had heard concerns raised in public meetings by parents and teachers and chose to spend more time considering before closing Betsy Ross, and we were impressed by the dozen comments on our Facebook page that reflected a respect and understanding for the complexity of this choice. In Rummel’s comments we also heard a call for Forest Parkers without immediate ties to a kid in the school or a paycheck from the district to step up to push the school district further, to support it in word and in action. Most importantly, and we’ve said this clearly, the wider community needs to sort out the demographics, the census, the housing mix, the pandemic, and the mixed

OPINION

bag of the high schools to understand why D91 keeps shrinking while public elementary schools surrounding us are growing. This won’t be simple or obvious. And there isn’t a magic bullet that is going to begin to turn this shrinking district toward growth. The district and the village have bought a year to do hard thinking and planning.

Art and activism

This Sunday Forest Park will celebrate the essential mashup of our emerging arts community and the growing antiracism movement in this engagingly diverse village. Signs for Change represents the joined energy of the Arts Alliance and the Juneteenth committee to create an afternoon at Reiger Park (Circle and 16th). For a small fee ($10 in advance via EventBrite) believers in what we can and ought to be as a community and nation, can craft their own lawn sign with some message of what a blessed and determined village ought to look like. Credit three women — no surprise — with creating this caring opportunity. Allison Holman is still a Forest Park newcomer. Marjorie Adam Clark, Juneteenth co-chair, and Lin Beribak, co-chair of the Arts Alliance, blended forces to create Signs for Change. Be there. That’s best. But also support the neighbors who will plant these signs across Forest Park as bold statements, determined declarations.

When it’s all on the line and everyone’s watching

R

ock ’n’ Roll Night is a popular annual White Sox promotional night, and this past Friday, the New York Yankees came to town to rock in Chicago’s South Side park. Opening the game with the Star Spangled Banner was musician, and Forest Parker, Mark Grzelak rocking the anthem for a crowd of nearly 29,000. While the most iconic rock version of the anthem was played by Jimi Hendrix at

Mark Grzelak rocking the anthem

Woodstock, Grzelak took more of a classical approach on his guitar. “It’s not about you and your playing, it’s a service, and I just keep traditional. It has some of my style, but I just keep it cool, it’s not a time to show off to show what you can do, everyone knows it,” said the down-to-earth Grzelak. This wasn’t the first time Grzelak has been asked by the Sox to lead off the game with the national anthem, but this time he finished his set outside the park and had to run a half-mile, guitar in hand, with Sox staff to make it to the field with just minutes to spare to wipe his brow and catch his breath before the performance. “It’s quite an experience,” Grzelak explained. “Once my name is announced, thousands and thousands of people become silent, and all eyes and ears are on me and I am playing a song that every single person knows the melody to … and there’s really not any room for error.” Forest Park Review Publisher Dan Haley, who was at the game, recorded a video of the performance, which can be seen and heard on the Review website. After losing all shows for a year during the pandemic, Grzelak focused on his original projects and now that gigs are coming back two-fold, his calendar with bands, private performances and solo shows are taking up much of his time. Keep up with Grzelak’s performances, both solo and with his bands, including Red Pop Fury, by following his website at Kentland Records, or grab a burger and rock PULLED FROM VIDEO with him next time he plays at Scratch on Lake.

JILL WAGNER

Forest Park Review, May 18, 2022 Growing Community Media

HELP WANTED

Deadline is Monday at 5:00 p.m.

3. Assist with any equipment repairs for the Park District. This includes but not limited to vehicles, tractors, any facility, or program equipment. 4 Assist the recreation department in set up, construction, and repair of all special event props.

BY PHONE: (708) 613-3333 | BY FAX: (708) 467-9066 BY E-MAIL: EMAIL@GROWINGCOMMUNITYMEDIA.ORG

Qualifications: 21 years of age. A valid Illinois State Driver License (Class A). In good physical condition with sufficient strength to lift and hold 50 pounds.

HOURS: 9:00 A.M.– 5:00 P.M. MON–FRI

HELP WANTED

HELP WANTED • NETWORK SPECIALIST Class specifications are intended to present a descriptive list of the range of duties performed by employees in the class. Specifications are not intended to reflect all duties performed within the job. DEFINITION To perform various network/system administration, computer support, and operational activities for the Village including computer system setup, configuration, and testing. SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED Reports directly to the Information Technology Services Director. EXAMPLE OF DUTIES: Essential and other important duties and responsibilities may include, but are not limited to, the following: Essential duties and responsibilities 1. Ensure that best in class customer service is provided to both internal and external customers and also embrace, support, and promote the Village’s core values, beliefs and culture. 2. Configure, test, and deploy network systems, such as, firewalls, routers, switches, wireless equipment, network servers and storage arrays. 3. Configure, test, and deploy system servers, such as, file, print, Internet, e-mail, database, and application servers. 4. Configure, test, and monitor server and end-user systems for security, such as, user accounts, login scripts, file access privileges, and group policy management. 5. Configure, test, and deploy end-user systems, such as, workstations, laptops, mobile devices, printers, and software. 6. Test, configure, deploy, and support security systems, such as, facility access system, video & audio system. 7. Monitor and auditing of networks, systems, and user activities to ensure security and efficiency of systems. Create scripts and reports of detail activities for regular review. 8. Perform and participate in disaster recovery activities, such as, backup procedures, data recovery, and system recovery planning. 9. Assist end-users with computer problems or queries. Troubleshoot systems as needed and meet with users to analyze specific system needs. 10. Ensure the uniformity, reliability and security of system resources including network, hardware,

software and other forms of systems and data. 11. Prepare, create and update user/technical procedure documentations and provide computer training. 12. Assemble, test, and install network, telecommunication and data equipment and cabling. 13. Participate in research and recommendation of technology solutions. Other important responsibilities and duties 1. Train users in the area of existing, new or modified computer systems and procedures. 2. Participate in the preparation of various activity reports. 3. Travel and support remote facilities and partner agencies. 4. Operate, administer and manage the Village and Public Safety computer systems, including E-911 center, in-vehicle computer systems. 5. Prepare clear and logical reports and program documentation of procedures, processes, and configurations. 6. Complete projects on a timely and efficient manner. 7. Communicate effectively both orally and in writing. 8. Establish and maintain effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work. 9. Perform related duties and responsibilities as required. QUALIFICATIONS Knowledge of: Principals and procedures of computer systems, such as, data communication, hierarchical structure, backups, testing and critical analysis. Hardware and software configuration of. computers, servers and mobile devices, including computing environment of Windows Server and Desktop OS and applications, Unix/Linux OS, VMware, iOS/Android. Network protocols, security, configuration and administration, including firewalls, routers, switches and wireless technology. Cabling and wiring, including CAT5/6, fiber network, telephone, serial communication, termination, and punch-down. Telecommunications theory and technology, including VoiP, serial communication, wireless protocols, PBX, analog, fax, voicemail and auto-attendant. Principles and methods of computer programming, coding and testing, including power shell, command scripting, macros, and

VB scripts. Modern office procedures, methods and computer equipment. Technical writing, office productivity tools and database packages. Ability to: Maintain physical condition appropriate to the performance of assigned duties and responsibilities, which may include the following: - Walking, standing or sitting for extended periods of time - Operating assigned equipment - Lift 50 pounds of equipment, supplies, and materials without assistance - Working in and around computer equipped vehicles Maintain effective audio-visual discrimination and perception needed for: - Making observations - Communicating with others - Reading and writing - Operating assigned equipment and vehicles Maintain mental capacity allowing for effective interaction and communication with others. Maintain reasonable and predictable attendance. Work overtime as operations require. Experience and Training Guidelines Experience: Three years of network/system administration in the public or private sector, maintaining a minimum of 75 Client Workstation computers. AND Training: Possession of a Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with major coursework in computer science or a related field. Certifications in Microsoft Server Administration, Networking, Applications and Cisco Networking. Possession of a valid Illinois Driver License is required at the time of appointment. Vaccination against COVID-19 strongly preferred. WORKING CONDITIONS Work in a computer environment; sustained posture in a seated position for prolonged periods of time; continuous exposure to computer screens; work in and around computerized vehicles outdoor and garage facility; lifting heavy equipment, communication cabling and wiring into walls and ceilings.

RIVER FOREST PARK DISTRICT PARK SPECIALIST Starting Salary Range: $17.50 $20.38/HR plus full benefits Working Hours: The Park Specialist is a full time non-exempt position working 40 hours per week, plus overtime. The scheduled work hours for this position are Monday – Friday, 7:00 AM to 3:30 PM, including ½ hour unpaid lunch. Hours may be shifted occasionally to accommodate specific tasks. Summary: The Park Specialist is responsible for assisting the Director of Parks with the maintenance operations of the Park District grounds, facilities, and equipment. The work includes, but not limited to: 1. Landscape maintenance opera-

tions for the Park District. This includes but not limited to: a. Turf maintenance: Mowing, irrigation, fertilizing, seeding, weed control, and trash removal. b. Athletic field maintenance: Baseball diamond infields, soccer fields, football fields, basketball courts, tennis courts, and installation and maintenance of necessary apparatus of each field use. c. Landscape maintenance: Soil grading and preparation, tree planting, tree trimming, tree spraying, tree watering, mulch bed maintenance, and flower bed maintenance. d. Construction: Installation of park/ playground equipment, park benches, park signage, retaining walls, and drainage systems. 2. Assist with the custodial maintenance of all Park District facilities.

Interested candidates shall submit an application in person or by email: John Beto, Director of Parks 401 Thatcher Avenue River Forest, Illinois 60305 708-366-6660x103 jbeto@rfparks.com

PARKS DISTRICT OF OAK PARK PRINCIPAL COACH & PROGRAM SPECIALIST

The Park District of Oak Park is hiring a Full-time Principal Coach & Program Specialist with a starting pay of $20.46 hourly to view the full job description and apply online please click the following link: https://www. paycomonline.net/v4/ats/web.php/ jobs/ViewJobDetails?job=41011&c l i e n t k e y = 4 1 D 8 3 0 0 1 8 4 9 0 6 11 7 978771C10E755DC6

Growing Community Media NFP • Business Manager

We are hiring a part-time business manager to oversee the financial and business operations of our busy community publishing nonprofit.

Essential leadership position which offers flexible hours (25 per week), a hybrid of in-office and work from home options, and a salary in the mid-$40s. Our long-time business manager is departing after seven years to take a full-time position elsewhere. • Payroll and benefits Among the key roles for our business manager are: • Payment processing for donors, • QuickBooks proficiency

- General ledger, invoicing, month end

• Budgeting

• AR and AP management

advertisers and subscriptions

• Audit preparation

• Preferred hire will have nonprofit finance management experience.

Bonus points for being a notary! Send resumes to Dan Haley, CEO, Growing Community Media dhaley@wjinc.com

River Forest Public Schools District 90

Student Support Services - Vacancies for the 2022-2023 School Year District 90 is seeking qualified and experienced student support educators for the following positions: • School Social Worker - Grades 5th - 8th • School Social Worker - Grades PreK-4th • Special Education Support Teacher - Grades PreK-4th • School Psychologist/Facilitator - Grades PreK-4th For detailed qualifications requirements and job duties, please visit our website at https://www.district90.org/ about/employment for our complete list of employment opportunities. Qualifications: Valid Illinois Professional Education License with endorsement in field of study, a Master’s Degree is preferred and successful teaching experience with students in a classroom setting is preferred.

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General Duties: Provide excellence in education by developing and implementing activities that encourage students to be life-long learners. Possesses knowledge of District policies and regulations relating to areas of responsibilities. Create an environment that is conducive to learning and appropriate to the developmental maturity and interests of each student. Application: Apply online at www.district90.org. Application Procedure: Interested candidates should complete the online application available at district90. org. Please do not send hard copies of supporting documentation, i.e. cover letters, resumes, licensure, etc. to River Forest Schools District 90; instead, upload these materials onto the online job application system for proper processing.

Starting a New Business? Publish Your Assumed Name Legal Notice in • Austin Weekly News • Wednesday Journal

• Forest Park Review • Riverside/Brookfield Landmark Call the Experts Before You Place Your Legal Ad! Call Stacy for details: 773/626-6332

ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH INTERN

The Village of Oak Park is seeking qualified candidates for the position of Environmental Health Intern in the Health Department. This full-time seasonal position will provide assistance to the Environmental Health Practitioners in the inspection and local businesses, homes and other establishments to enforce state and local laws and ordinances related to public Health safety; to respond and resolve citizen complaints regarding nuisances and reported epidemics. Applicants are encouraged to visit the Village of Oak Park’s website http:// www.oak-park.us/jobs.

BUSINESS LICENSE OFFICER

The Village of Oak Park is seeking qualified candidates for the position of Business License Officer in the Development Customer Service Department. This person will perform a variety of technical duties in the processing and approval of business licenses and permits; and provide assistance and support to the Department. Applicants are encouraged to visit the Village of Oak Park’s website http://www.oak-park.us/jobs. First review of applications will be May 9, 2022.

ANIMAL CONTROL OFFICER

The Village of Oak Park is seeking qualified candidates for the position of Animal Control Officer in the Health Department. This position will perform a variety of duties involved in enforcing Village ordinances governing the care and keeping of animals in the Village; and to impound, care for and assist with redemption of animals as appropriate. Applicants are encouraged to apply using the following link: https://secure.entertimeonline.com/ta/6141780.careers?ApplyToJob=218333253. For additional information on the position please visit the Village of Oak Park’s website http://www.oak-park.us/jobs. This position is open until filled.

UTILITY (WATER) BILLING CLERK

The Village of Forest Park seeks candidates for the union position of Full-Time Administration Utility Billing Clerk. Experience with data entry, customer service, administrative assistant skills, bookkeeping or accounting is highly desired. Must be flexible with work assignments and comfortable working with numbers and the public. Other qualifications include computer skills, the ability to meet deadlines, good knowledge of English language, general office skills, including handling of nonemergency calls and walk-up customer service, and good verbal and written skills. Starting salary $32,487 annually. Generous Benefits Package, IMRF Pension and 10 Paid Holidays. Open until filled. Eligible candidates will be required to pass pre-employment ability testing and an extensive background check. Applications are available at Village Hall, 517 Desplaines Ave. or at www.forestpark.net and should be returned Attn: Vanessa Moritz, Village Clerk, Village of Forest Park, 517 Des Plaines Avenue, Forest Park, IL 60130. Email: vmoritz@ forestpark.net .

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Forest Park Review, May 18, 2022

CLASSIFIED BUDGET AND REVENUE ANALYST

The Village of Oak Park is seeking qualified candidates for the position of Budget and Revenue Analyst in the Development Customer Service Department. This position will Serve the public with professional administrative and analytical duties in the areas of budget preparation, purchasing, payroll, data analysis and process improvement. Provides, prepares and maintains records, and financial and statistical reports and analysis which assist in the Village’s ability to improve business processes and gain efficiencies through better use of technology. Budget duties include assisting in the development, analysis and application of performance measures with regard to Village services and resources; preparing, modifying, tracking and monitoring Village expenses and transfers; and conducting budget-related research and analysis. Applicants are encouraged to visit the Village of Oak Park’s website http://www.oakpark.us/jobs. Interested and qualified applicants must complete a Village of Oak Park application.

PARKING ENFORCEMENT OFFICER

The Village of Oak Park is seeking qualified candidates for the position of Parking Enforcement Officer in the Police Department Field Services Division. This position will perform a variety of duties and responsibilities involved in the enforcement of Village parking regulations; and to provide general information and assistance to the public. Applicants are encouraged to visit the Village of Oak Park’s website http://www.oak-park.us/. Interested and qualified applicants must complete a Village of Oak Park application.

POLICE RECORDS CLERK

The Village of Oak Park is seeking qualified candidates for the position of Police Records Clerk in the Police Department. This position will perform a wide variety of specialized clerical duties in support of the Police Department including processing and maintaining documents, correspondence and coding reports; and to provide information and assistance to the public. Applicants are encouraged to visit the Village of Oak Park’s website at http://www.oak-park.us/jobs.

COVID-19 RESPONSE INTERN

The Village of Oak Park is seeking qualified candidates for the position of COVID-19 Response Intern in the Health Department. This position will perform a variety of responsible and complex professional COVID-19 response support, as well as routine documentation of related tasks in support of the Emergency Preparedness & Response Coordinator. Applicants are encouraged to visit the Village of Oak Park’s website http:// www.oak-park.us/. Interested and qualified applicants must complete a Village of Oak Park application.

BY PHONE: (708) 613-3333 BY FAX: (708) 467-9066 BY E-MAIL: EMAIL@GROWINGCOMMUNITYMEDIA.ORG

HELP WANTED COVID-19 RESPONSE COORDINATOR

The Village of Oak Park is seeking qualified candidates for the position of COVID-19 Response Coordinator in the Health Department. This position will perform a variety of responsible and complex professional COVID-19 response support, as well as routine documentation of related tasks in support of the Emergency Preparedness & Response Coordinator. Applicants are encouraged to visit the Village of Oak Park’s website http://www.oak-park.us/. Interested and qualified applicants must complete a Village of Oak Park application.

SEASONAL FARMERS’ MARKET ASSISTANT

The Village of Oak Park is seeking qualified candidates for the position of Seasonal Farmers’ Market Assistant in the Health Department. This position will provide administrative support to the Farmers’ Market Manager to allow growers and producers of food to sell directly to the public within established guidelines. This position requires work in inclement weather conditions; some heavy lifting of up to 50 pounds; walking or standing for sustained periods of time. Applicants are encouraged to visit the Village of Oak Park’s website at http://www.oak-park.us/jobs. Interested and qualified applicants must complete a Village of Oak Park application. Open until filled.

SANITARIAN

The Village of Oak Park is seeking qualified candidates for the position of Sanitarian in the Health Department. This position will perform a variety of duties including education and enforcement activities for the promotion and protection of the public health environment. Applicants are encouraged to visit the Village of Oak Park’s website http://www.oakpark.us/jobs.

RESIDENTIAL LEASING AGENT – OAK PARK, IL

Oak Park Residence Corporation (OPRC) is seeking a capable Residential Leasing Agent to join our leasing team. You will present and lease our apartments to prospective tenants. The right candidate will be personable, flexible, informative, and well versed in multi-family residential properties. Experience with YARDI a plus. OPRC is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We offer a highly competitive benefit plan including medical, dental, vision, disability, life, 401(k) with employer contribution, FSA, EAP, paid holiday, vacation, sick leave, and PTO. For a complete position description please go to our website: https:// oakparkrc.com/about-us... or to apply send cover letter and resume to bswaggerty@oakparkrc.com



 

ACCOUNTING ASSISTANT WITH OPRC

Oak Park Residence Corporation (OPRC) is seeking an experienced Staff Accountant to join its accounting team. The successful candidate will have a minimum of 2 years experience in the accounting field with previous experience in accounts receivable, accounts payable, general ledger analysis, and budget preparation. This individual must also have excellent computer skills and be proficient in Microsoft Office and Excel. Experience in non-profit environment, property management accounting, and/or HUD experience and YARDI software considered a plus. For a complete job description please go to our website: Work for OPRC – OPRC (oakparkrc.com) or to apply send cover letter and resume to bswaggerty@oakparkrc.com. OPRC is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We offer a highly competitive benefit plan including medical, dental, vision, disability, life, 401(k) with employer contribution, FSA, EAP, paid holiday,vacation, sick leave, and PTO.

PUBLIC WORKS SUPERINTENDENT

VILLAGE OF RIVERSIDE, ILLINOIS Riverside, IL (pop, 9,298) The Village of Riverside is a mature, historic community located 11 miles west of Chicago in Cook County. Riverside is primarily a residential community originally conceived and planned in 1869 as a model suburb by Frederick Law Olmsted. The Village operates under the President– Trustee form of government with an appointed Village Manager. The Public Works Superintendent is a challenging, stimulating position that is hired by and reports to the Director of Public Works. The Public Works Superintendent is primarily responsible for the operation of the water system. The Public Works Superintendent can expect to perform complex supervisory, administrative and professional work in planning, organizing, directing, and assisting with supervising the operations of the Department of Public Works. Positions supervised include clerical, administrative, maintenance and professional staff as assigned. The successful candidate must be able to demonstrate a combination of educational and relevant experience to fulfill the requirements of the position. The Public Works Superintendent must possess and maintain a Commercial Driver’s License and an ILEPA Certified Water Supply Operator certification of Class C or higher. Salary Range is $82,102.50 to $105,000. Send cover letter, resume, anticipated starting salary and five work related references to Ian Splitt, Village of Riverside, 27 Riverside, Riverside, IL, 60546 or email credentials to isplitt@riverside.il.us. First review of resumes will occur on May 18 th, 2022. The Village of Riverside is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

RENTALS

HOME CARE WORKER FOR SENIOR

Home care worker for senior in our Riverside home. Meal prep. Covid shots and boosters required. Call 708-567-6455.

CUSTOMER SERVICE REPRESENTATIVE II

The Village of Oak Park is seeking qualified candidates for the position of Customer Service Representative II in the Development Customer Services Department. This position provides customer service to the public by providing a variety of responsible and difficult customer service and receptionist work including high volume telephone traffic; and to perform the more difficult and complex customer service duties depending on the department including but not limited to service requests, permits, parking passes, block party permits, accounts payable processing and vehicle stickers. This position is crosstrained with the other Customer Service Representative IIs in the Village. Applicants are encouraged to visit the Village of Oak Park’s website at http://www.oak-park.us/jobs. Interested and qualified applicants must complete a Village of Oak Park application. This position is posted until June 13, 2022.

PARKS DISTRICT OF OAK PARK EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT

The Park District of Oak Park is hiring a Full-time Executive Assistant with a starting salary of $50,000 yearly with benefits to view the full job description and apply online please click the following link: https://www. paycomonline.net/v4/ats/web.php/ jobs/ViewJobDetails?job=57519& clientkey=41D8300184906117978 771C10E755DC6 Interior Designer (Chicago IL) manage dsgn process for multiple projects, understand blueprints & drawings, dsgn model units from conception to completion, dvlp & send special product requests to manufacturers, maintain up to date knowl of dsgn, trends, construction methodology, materials applications, sustainability, LEED guidelines & WELL bldg. Reqs Associate’s in Interior Dsgn, Architectural CAD Certificate, proficiency in SketchUp, Revit, Photoshop, Studio Designer & Excel, frequent travel to client locations throughout Chicago area. Resumes to A Johnson, Alissa Johnson Interiors Inc, 921 N Hoyne Ave, #3, Chicago, IL 60622.

SUBURBAN RENTALS DOWNTOWN OAK PARK 2BR APT

2BR, 1BTH apartment for rent. Hardwood floors. Renovated and freshly painted. Small, vintage building. No smoking. No pets. Parking included. 708-657-4226

STUDIOS, 1, 2 & 3 BR Best Selection & Service

OAK PARK & FOREST PARK

708-386-7355

MMpropMgmt.com

OAK PARK THERAPY OFFICES:

Therapy offices available on North Avenue. Parking; Flexible leasing; Nicely furnished; Waiting Room; Conference Room. Ideal for new practice or 2nd location. 708.383.0729 Call for an appt.

1 BEDROOM APT

Small 1 bdr apt in Forest Park. Water and heat included. No parking. Available May 1. $700/month. 708-227-7007

OFFICE/RETAIL FOR RENT RIVER FOREST–7777 Lake St. * 1116 sq. ft. * 1400 sq. ft. Dental Office RIVER FOREST–7756 Madison St. * 960 sq. ft. OAK PARK–6142-44 Roosevelt Rd. * 3 & 5 room office suites FOREST PARK–7736 Madison St. *2500 sq. ft. unit Strand & & Browne Strand Browne 708-488-0011 708-488-0011

WANTED TO RENT RENT WANTED TO Coach House/Guest House Wanted to Rent Contact George at 708-722-1111or gfunkpunk@gmail.com with info.

WANTED TO RENT Garage Wanted to Rent 2 car or Larger.

MARKETPLACE

GARAGE SALES Oak Park

GARAGE SALE 1145 S. SCOVILLE SAT MAY 21 9AM-2PM AND SUN MAY 22 9AM-1PM

Books, clothes (Men’s XL, Women’s M, Youth M-L), costumes, toys, household items, antique fine China dish sets, vintage hats and more! Everything must go!

GARAGE SALES Oak Park

HUGE MOVING SALE 1126 S LOMBARD AVE SAT MAY 21 9AM-2PM SUN MAY 22 10AM-2PM

There will be two floors of things for sale. There will be furniture, paintings, 100s of fine books, antiques, good clothes, 1,000s of baseball cards, old and new tools, china, tablecloths, pots, pans, golf clubs, and lots of collectables. Then on Sunday May 22 a close out sale will be held. For $20 you can take anything and everything you want. A couple will be charged $30.

WANTED TO BUY WANTED MILITARY ITEMS: Helmets, medals, patches, uniforms, weapons, flags, photos, paperwork, Also toy soldiers – lead, plastic – other misc. toys. Call Uncle Gary 708-522-3400

CARS WANTED

Contact George at 708-722-1111or gfunkpunk@gmail.com with info.



CLASSICS WANTED CLASSICS WANTED Restored or Unrestored

or Unrestored Cars &Restored Vintage Motorcycles Domestic / Cars & Vintage Motorcycles Import Cars: Mercedes, Porsche, Corvette,Cars: Ferrari’s, Domestic / Import Jaguars, Muscle Cars, Mustang & Mopars Mercedes, Porsche, Corvette, $$ Top $$ all makes, Etc.

Ferrari’s, James Jaguars,• 630-201-8122 Muscle Cars, Collector Mustang & Mopars

$$ Top $$ allWANTED makes, Etc. CLASSICS Collector James

Forest Park Review, May 18, 2022

CLASSIFIED CEMENT

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BY PHONE: (708) 613-3333 BY FAX: (708) 467-9066 BY E-MAIL: EMAIL@GROWINGCOMMUNITYMEDIA.ORG

CEMENT

MAGANA

C O N C R E T E C O N S T RU C T I O N “QUALITY IS OUR FOUNDATION” ESTABLISHED IN 1987

COMMERCIAL INDUSTRIAL RESIDENTIAL

708.442.7720 '5,9(:$<6 )281'$7,216 3$7,26 67(36 &85% *877(56 6,'(:$/.6 612: 3/2:,1* 67$03(' &2/25(' $**5(*$7( &21&5(7( FREE ESTIMATES LICENSED, BONDED & INSURED

HOME SERVICES

ELECTRICAL Ceiling Fans Installed

ELECTRICAL

A&A ELECTRIC

Let an American Veteran do your work

We install plugs for battery-operated vehicles We fix any electrical problem and do small jobs We install Surge Protectors • Home Re-wiring • New Plugs & Switches Added • New circuit breaker boxes • Code violations corrected Service upgrades,100-200 amp • Garage & A/C lines installed Fast Emergency Service | Residential • Commercial • Industrial Free Home Evaluations | Lic. • Bonded • Ins. • Low Rates • Free Est.

708-409-0988 • 708-738-3848 Sr. Discounts • 30 Yrs. Exp. Servicing Oak Park • All surrounding suburbs • Chicago area

CAREGIVER Caregiver for senior

Affordable price, excellent references. With a car. 24-hour live-in overnight or hourly come and go.

708-692-2580

HANDYMAN Mike’s Home Repair Drywall H Painting H Tile Plumbing H Electric H Floors Windows H Doors H Siding Ask Us What We Don’t Do

708-296-2060

HANDYMAN Roofing Repairs Concrete Repairs • Drywall All types of handiwork Call For Free Estimates

773-637-0692 Ask for John

CURT'S HANDYMAN SERVICE Drywall Repair • Painting Fans Installed • Carpentry Trim Gutter Cleaning • Window Repair

FLOORS

Free estimates Excellent References No Job Too Small

KLIS FLOORING INC.

708-488-9411

New hardwood flooring installation & pergo. Sanding, re-finishing, staining. Low prices, insured. Call: 773-671-4996 • www.klisflooring.com

HAULING BASEMENT CLEANING

Appliances & Furniture Removal Pickup & Delivery. 708-848-9404

LANDSCAPING BRUCE LAWN SERVICE Spring Clean-Up Aerating, Slit Seeding Bush Trimming, Lawn Maintenance brucelawns.com

708-243-0571

FAST DELIVERY

Mulch & Topsoil

Premium Shredded Hardwood ���������������$28/yd Dyed Red ������������������$35/yd Dyed Brown ��������������$33/yd Playmat��������������������$30/yd Premium Blend Dark �$38/yd Premium Bark Fines��$48/yd Blonde Cedar ������������$54/yd • Spreading Available! •

PETS While you’re away, your pets are okay . . . at home

cat calls

Oak Park’s Original Pet Care Service – Since 1986

Daily dog exercising Complete pet care in your home )PVTF TJUUJOH t 1MBOU DBSF Bonded References

524-1030

Topsoil, Garden Mix, Mushroom, Super Mix, Compost, Gravel, Sand

SureGreenLandscape�com

847-888-9999 847-888-9999 •• 630-876-0111 630-876-0111

PAINTING & DECORATING CLASSIC PAINTING Fast & Neat Painting/Taping/ Plaster Repair Low Cost • 708.749.0011

S W NE LASH! F You can get local news delivered right to your email in-box. Sign up for FREE at ForestParkReview.com

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Forest Park Review, May 18, 2022

CLASSIFIED

PUBLIC NOTICES

PUBLIC NOTICES PUBLIC NOTICE On Thursday, May 26, 2022 at 11:00 am., Oak Park Elementary School District 97 will be conducting a “timely and meaningful consultation” meeting to discuss plans for providing special education services to students with disabilities who attend private/parochial schools and who are home schooled within the district for the 2022-2023 school year. The meeting will be held virtually through Zoom. The details are listed below. If you are a parent/guardian of a home-schooled student who has been or may be identified with a disability, and you reside within the boundaries of Oak Park Elementary School District 97, you are urged to attend. If you have further questions pertaining to this meeting, please contact District 97’s Department of Special Education at 708-524-3030. Join Zoom Meeting https://op97-org.zoom.us/ j/83861957687?pwd=eWdqVTJDMHdIV2IzSE95UHRtU3lKQT09 Meeting ID: 838 6195 7687 Passcode: 219686 One tap mobile +13126266799,,83861957687# (Chicago) +16465588656,,83861957687# (New York)

US US

Published in Wednesday Journal May 18, 25, 2022

PUBLIC NOTICE NOTICE OF PUBLIC MEETING Attention: Parents of Home-Schooled Students On Friday, May 27, 2022 at 11 am, Forest Park Schools District 91 will conduct a meeting via Zoom.us. The purpose of the meeting will be to discuss the district’s plans for providing special education services to students with disabilities who attend private schools and home schools within the district for the 2022-23 school year. If you are the parent of a homeschooled student who has been or may be identified with a disability and you reside within the boundaries of Forest Park Schools District 91, you are urged to attend. You can join the meeting by emailing Michelle Hopper at mhopper1@fpsd91.org for the Zoom link. If you have further questions pertaining to this meeting, please contact Michelle Hopper, Director of Special Education, at (708) 366-5742 or at mhopper1@fpsd91. org. Published in Forest Park Review May 18, 2022

BY PHONE: (708) 613-3333 BY FAX: (708) 467-9066 BY E-MAIL: EMAIL@GROWINGCOMMUNITYMEDIA.ORG PUBLIC NOTICES

PUBLIC NOTICES

PUBLIC NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICE/PUBLIC NOTICE NOTICE OF FINDING OF NO SIGNIFICANT IMPACT AND NOTICE OF INTENT TO REQUEST RELEASE OF FUNDS REQUEST FOR RELEASE OF FUNDS (RROF) On or about June 3, 2022 the Village of Oak Park (VOP) will request the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to release federal funds under Title I of the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974 (PL 93-383), as amended, for various activities pursuant to the Program Year (PY) 2021 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program which runs from October 1, 2021 through September 30, 2022. The following activities will take place within the Village of Oak Park, Illinois utilizing a total of $278,500 CDBG funds. 2 Infrastructure projects: 1-Village of Oak Park Public Works “Water & Sewers” project which includes replacing the failing combined sewer main and rebuilding the existing deteriorated roadway on Kenilworth from Lake St. to Ontario in which the West Side of Kenilworth is within the boundaries of a Low/Mod income area in Census Tract 8123.01, Block Group 2, and will be funded with $97,500 of returned PY2019 CDBG funds. The total project cost of $2,442,445 includes replacing sewers and roadways at two other locations outside of Low/Mod areas using local funds. 2-Village of Oak Park Public Works Streets & Sidewalks Ramps project which resurfaces the deteriorated roadway, improves crossings for pedestrians for safety concerns, replaces older street lights with new LED lighting, adds landscaped medians to slow traffic, and enhances the neighborhood with landscaping and deco-

rative elements on Forest from the alley North of Lake St to the North jog of Ontario, then on Ontario from Forest to Marion in which the West and East sides of Forest from the alley North of Lake St. and the West and East sides of Forest to the Jog, the West side of forest from the Jog to Ontario and the South side of Ontario from Forest to Marion are within the boundaries of a Low/Mod income area in Census Tract 8123.01, Block Group 2, and will be funded with $155,000 of returned PY2019 CDBG funds with a total project cost of $787,202. The proposed activities are categorically excluded under HUD regulations at 24 CFR Part 58 from the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) requirements but subject to review under other authorities listed in 24 CFR 58.5. An Environmental Review Record (ERR) that documents the environmental determination for these projects is on file at the Village of Oak Park, 123 Madison Street, Oak Park, IL 60302 and is available for public examination and copying weekdays from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. CST. The ERR is also available on the HUD Environmental Review Online System (HEROS) at: https://www.onecpd. info/environmental-review/environmental-review-records FINDING OF NO SIGNIFICANT IMPACT (FONSI) The compliance factors were determined on each project’s site-specific location and no mitigation or compliance was required. The Village of Oak Park has determined that the project activities will have no significant im-

pact on the human environment. Therefore, an Environmental Impact Statement under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) of 1969 is not required. The Environmental Review Record (ERR) documenting the environmental determination for each activity is on file at the Village of Oak Park, 123 Madison Street, Oak Park, IL 60302 and is available for public examination and copying weekdays from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. CST. The ERR is also available on the HUD Environmental Review Online System (HEROS) at: https://www. onecpd.info/environmental-review/ environmental-review-records PUBLIC COMMENTS Any individual, group, or agency may submit written comments on the ERR to the Village of Oak Park, 123 Madison Street, Oak Park, IL 60302 or via: email at grants@oak-park.us All comments received by June 2, 2022 will be considered by the Village of Oak Park prior to authorizing submission of a request for release of funds. ENVIRONMENTAL CERTIFICATION – RELEASE OF FUNDS The Village of Oak Park certifies to HUD that Kevin Jackson, in his official capacity as Village Manager, and Tammie Grossman, in her official capacity as Development Customer Services Director, consent to accept the jurisdiction of the Federal courts if an action is brought to enforce responsibilities in relation to the environmental review process and that these responsibilities have been satisfied. HUD’s approval of the certification satisfies its responsibilities under

NEPA and related laws and authorities and allows the Village of Oak Park to use HUD program funds. OBJECTIONS TO RELEASE OF FUNDS HUD will accept objections to its release of funds and the Village of Oak Park’s certification for a period of fifteen (15) days following the anticipated submission date or its actual receipt of the request (whichever is later) only if they are on one of the following bases: (a) the certification was not executed by the Certifying Officer of the Village of Oak Park; (b) the Village of Oak Park has omitted a step or failed to make a decision or finding required by HUD regulations at 24 CFR part 58; (c) the grant recipient or other participants in the development process have committed funds, incurred costs or undertaken activities not authorized by 24 CFR Part 58 before approval of a release of funds by HUD; or (d) another Federal agency acting pursuant to 40 CFR Part 1504 has submitted a written finding that the project is unsatisfactory from the standpoint of environmental quality. Objections must be prepared and submitted in accordance with the required procedures (24 CFR Part 58, Sec. 58.76) and shall be addressed to HUD at CPD_COVID-19OEE-CHI@ hud.gov. Potential objectors should contact HUD to verify the actual last day of the objection period. Kevin Jackson, Village Manager, and Tammie Grossman, Development Customer Services Director, Certifying Officers

Published in Wednesday Journal, May 18, 2022

Starting a New Business?

PUBLIC NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICE The Village of Oak Park will receive sealed bids from qualified electrical contractors at the Public Works Center, 201 South Boulevard, Oak Park, Illinois 60302, Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. local time until 3:00 p.m. on Friday, May 27, 2022 for the following: Village of Oak Park North Meter Vault Electrical Upgrades Project Number: 22-120 Bid documents may be obtained from the Village’s website at http://www.oak-park.us/bid. For questions, please call Public Works at (708) 358-5700 during the above hours. Published in Wednesday Journal May 18, 2022

Let the sun shine in...

Public Notice: Your right to know In print • Online Available to you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, every day of the year • OakPark.com

Publish Your Assumed Name Legal Notice in • Austin Weekly News • Wednesday Journal • Forest Park Review • Riverside/Brookfield Landmark Call the Experts Before You Place Your Legal Ad! Call Stacy for details: 773/626-6332

• RBLandmark.com • ForestParkReview.com • AustinWeeklyNews.com PublicNoticeIllinois.com

REAL ESTATE FOR SALE IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT - CHANCERY DIVISION THE HUNTINGTON NATIONAL BANK; Plaintiff, vs. HENRY KIRKE CUSHING AKA HENRY K. CUSHING; MARY K. O’GRADY AKA MARK K. O’GRADY AKA MARY KAY O’GRADY; MARQUERITE HOLDING; Defendants, 21 CH 5827 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 Tuesday, June 21, 2022 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. 16-07-405-018-0000. Commonly known as 115 South Ridgeland Avenue, Oak Park, IL 60302. 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) 220-5611. 21-002016 F2 INTERCOUNTY JUDICIAL SALES CORPORATION intercountyjudicialsales.com I3194270

EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY All real estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Fair Housing Act, which makes it illegal to advertise any preference, limitation or discrimination based on age, race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status or national origin, or intention to make any such preferences, limitations or discrimination. The Illinois Human Rights Act prohibits discrimination in the sale, rental or advertising of real estate based on factors in addition to those protected under federal law. This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. All persons are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised are available on an equal opportunity basis. Restrictions or prohibitions of pets do not apply to service animals. To complain of discrimination, call HUD toll free at: 1-800-669-9777. GROWING COMMUNITY MEDIA

Forest Park Review, May 18, 2022

(708) 366-8989 INC., REALTOR

7342 MADISON ST, FOREST PARK, ILLINOIS 60130

Our office will be relocating to 7234 Madison St., Forest Park as of May 1st.

T I Y U B T ’ N A C Y E IF TH . T I Y L P P DON’T SU Preventing underage drinking is everyone’s responsibility.

OakParkTownship.org/Prevention-Services • 708-383-8005 ext 125

Oak Park & River Forest Townships

Your Influence is a Super-Power!

Positive Youth Development (+PYD) supports youth in making healthy choices to lead alcohol and drug-free lives.

19

20

Forest Park Review, May 18, 2022

MAY IS MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS MONTH WE ALL HAVE MENTAL HEALTH

Whether you are struggling with a temporary challenge or if you are living with a chronic condition, your mental health is just as important as your physical health.

50%

More than 50% of Americans will be diagnosed with a mental illness or disorder at some point in their lifetime

Persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness

GROWING CRISIS AMONG YOUTH America’s youth mental health crisis has been worsened by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

INCREASED

69%

between 2009 and 2021 for U.S. high school students Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

INVESTING IN OUR FUTURE

The Community Mental Health Board of Oak Park Township (CMHB) and the River Forest Township Mental Health Committee invest in a continuum of mental health care that is responsive to our unique and evolving community needs. Together, we provided over $1.26M last year to help local organizations and schools offer prevention, early intervention, treatment, and quality-of-life services to Oak Park and River Forest residents. Our grants resulted in:

COMMUNITY MENTAL HEALTH BOARD OF OAK PARK TOWNSHIP

RIVER FOREST TOWNSHIP MENTAL HEALTH COMMITTEE

• Over 5,000 Oak Park residents accessing services

• Over 16,000 hours of services provided to River Forest residents

• Nearly 10,000 units of mental health treatment for Oak Park residents • Over 200 educational presentations on mental health to Oak Park residents • Over 1,000 Oak Park high school students trained in suicide prevention In fiscal year 2022, CMHB provided over $1.1M in funding for mental health, substance use, and intellectual/developmental disability services. To learn more about our work in this area, visit oakparktownship.org/CMHB.

• Over 100 hours of educational presentations on mental health to River Forest residents • Over 200 River Forest high school students trained in suicide prevention In fiscal year 2022, RFT provided over $160,000 in funding for mental health, substance use, and intellectual/developmental disability services. To learn more about our work in this area, visit www.riverforesttownship.org/mhservices.asp.

WRIGHTPLUS May 18, 2022

Family connections on Wright Plus

p. B10

2022 P R E V I E W

Property transfers

p. B12

W E D N E S D A Y

JOURNAL F O R E S T PA R K

REVIEW

The old neighborhood Wright Plus 2022 zooms in on the cradle of Prairie Style

FRANK LLOYD WRIGHT TRUST/JAMES CAULFIELD

By LACEY SIKORA

T

Contributing Reporter

his year’s Wright Plus housewalk takes place on Saturday, May 21, and the sold-out event features some old favorites as well as some new homes and newly discovered history. Wright Plus Co-Chair Sue Blaine says focusing the walk on the immediate neighborhood that Wright lived and worked in provides a lot of interesting context.

“You can look at Wright’s own home, which of course was built in three stages, and you see the evolution of his design as you go through the house,” Blaine said. “What’s fun about this year’s walk is seeing the built environment of his work. You can get a feel for what the environment looked like when Wright started working and how his work differed so much from what was being done at the time.”

Laura Gale House (Frank Lloyd Wright, 1909)

See WRIGHT PLUS on page B3

May 18, 2022 ■ Wednesday Journal/Forest Park Review

B1

Sold! 315 Marengo Ave, #4G, Forest Park I love working with 1st-time home buyers! Deborah Wess | 708-212-1122 deborahsellsoakpark4u@gmail.com

Just Listed! 349 Park Ave, River Forest 3 BR, 1 BA, Finished top to bottom tri-level home on 44 x 181 lot +3-car garage, 2 patios and screened-in porch for entertaining................................ $495,000 Laurie Shapiro | 708-203-3614 Laurie.shapiro@cbrealty.com

Under Contract in 2 Days! 1006 S. Euclid, Oak Park 4 BR, 3 BA, Bright Brick Bungalow on a large lot! Spacious chef’s kitchen, separate living and dining room and a full bath on each floor. Fabulous, central location! Sandi Graves | 708-752-6540 sgraves@cbexchange.com

Coming Soon! 101 N Euclid, #3, Oak Park Centrally located 4 levels of updated living. Private garage, roof deck/flex space on top! Lisa Andreoli and Meredith Conn 708-557-9546 or 708-743-6973 teamgo2girls@gmail.com

SOLD in a week! 534 Highland, Oak Park 3 BR, 2.1 BA Sold at 100% list price! $550,00 Patty Melgar Hooks | 708-261-2796 patty.melgarhooks@cbexchange.com

Under Contract! 247 Home Avenue, Oak Park 5 BR, 2 BA, Near it all! Beautiful Victorian with both original charm and desired updates. .................................... $729,000 Sara Faust | 708-772-7910 sara.faust@cbexchange.com

For Sale! 1020 Harlem 2F, River Forest 3 BR, 2 BA, Super spacious residence in premier RF condo building. Enjoy two parking spots in heated, underground garage, a private front balcony and lovely shared backyard. This one has it all!

Under Contract! 454 Iowa St, Oak Park 5 BR, 2.1 BA, This uncomparable piece of history has been thoughtfully updated. Screened porch, original inglenook & cottage-style garden add to the appeal.. ................................................... $925,000

Sue Canepa | 312-203-0848 suecanepahomes@gmail.com

Shea Kiessling | 708-710-5952 shea@cbexchange.com

Updates Happening Now! 632 Home Avenue, Oak Park 3 BR, 1.1 BA, Come see the new painting of the outside of home, along with new gutters! ...................................... $479,000

Coming Soon! 615 N. Ridgeland Avenue 4 BR, 1.1 BA, Move-in ready home with a sun-filled family room off the kitchen. Solar panels and a WB fireplace plus a deck overlooking a flower-filled yard. 2 car garage. ...................................... $550,000

Michelle Miller | 708-334-5833 michelle.miller@cbexchange.com

Coming Soon! 1036 N Kenilworth, Oak Park 4 BR, 3.1 BA, On the Boulevard! Large, light and airy colonial house. Gracious rooms, large yard. Welcome home! ....... ................................................... $889,000 Sara Faust | 708-772-7910 sara.faust@cbexchange.com

Stephanie Eiger | 708-557-0779 Stephanie.eiger@cbexchange.com

Under Contract! Sweet Arts District Bungalow. Some features are a primary suite, newer large kitchen, sunny enclosed front porch and great vintage details! .......$389,900 708-243-0330 jlangley.realtor@gmail.com

COLDWELLBANKERHOMES.COM

Oak Park 114 N. Oak Park Avenue, Oak Park | 708.524.1100

The property information herein is derived from various sources that may include, but not be limited to, county records and the Multiple Listing Service, and it may include approximations. Although the information is believed to be accurate, it is not warranted and you should not rely upon it without personal verification. Real estate agents affiliated with Coldwell Banker Realty are independent contractor sales associates, not employees. ©2022 Coldwell Banker Realty. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker Realty fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act. Owned by a subsidiary of NRT LLC. Coldwell Banker and the Coldwell Banker Logo are registered service marks owned by Coldwell Banker Realty LLC.

B2 View more at OakPark.com/Real-Estate ■ May 18, 2022

W R I G H T

P L U S

P R E V I E W

WRIGHT PLUS from page B1 This year’s homes include eight private residences in Oak Park on Kenilworth and Forest avenues as well as Elizabeth Court, which runs between the two. Blaine says three homes -- the Hayden, Kennedy and Humphrey homes -- are all some of the more historic homes on the walk that are good examples of design that was common during the period they were built. The Simon and Elizabeth Humphrey House 2 was built in 1887. Its architect is unknown. The threestory Queen Anne style home has an interior with many original wood details and decorative moldings. Until this year, the home was known as the Reed House, but Wright Plus researchers determined that the Reed family rented the home and that the original owners were the Simon and Elizabeth Humphrey, for whom Elizabeth Court was named. The David and Carolyn Kennedy House, designed by Patton & Fisher in 1888, is a grand-scale Queen Anne home with a gable roof and wide front porch. When it was built, the home occupied a large lot on the corner of Kenilworth and Elizabeth Court. Over time, parcels of land were sold off to form 9 and 11 Elizabeth Ct. as well as a parcel to the north of the house. In 1939, the homeowner defaulted on the mortgage, and the coach house was separated from the main house and became an independent property. The David and Carolyn Kennedy/Charles and Besse Boynton Coach House was designed by Patton & Fisher in 1893 for the original owners of the See WRIGHT PLUS on page B5

Simon and Elizabeth Humphrey House 2 (Unknown architect, 1887)

David and Carolyn Kennedy House (Patton & Fisher, 1888)

PHOTOS COURTESY OF FRANK LLOYD WRIGHT TRUST/JAMES CAULFIELD

David and Carolyn Kennedy Coach House (Patton & Fisher, 1888) May 18, 2022 ■ Wednesday Journal/Forest Park Review

B3

553 THATCHER AVENUE, RIVER FOREST

553THATCHER.INFO

7980 CHICAGO AVENUE, RIVER FOREST

7980CHICAGOAVENUE.INFO

Magnificent David A Thatcher home. Built in 1883 as a Queen Anne Victorian,

This remarkable corner lot has so much to love – wrought iron fencing,

then transformed into a Colonial Revival in 1920. $1,500,000

large brick driveway, and impressive yards.

BRIAN BEHAN

ELIZABETH AUGUST

•

3 1 2 . 4 8 0.1 24 4

•

b b @ a t p ro p e r t i e s .co m

•

773.610.8000

•

$1,400,000 elizabethaugust@atproperties.com

1011 SOUTH BOULEVARD

139 S GROVE AVENUE, OAK PARK

139SGROVE.INFO

846 N KENILWORTH AVENUE, OAK PARK

847NKENILWORTHAVENUE.INFO

This majestic Victorian home commands your attention with its impressive

Classic Oak Park brick 4 bedroom, 2.1 bath home located in Mann School

wrap around porch and grand entrance. $1,179,000

District.

TONY & KATHY IWERSEN

TONY & KATHY IWERSEN

•

708.772.8040

•

tonyiwersen@atproperties.com

$699,000 •

708.772.8040

•

tonyiwersen@atproperties.com

Stop looking, start finding® atproperties.com

B4 View more at OakPark.com/Real-Estate ■ May 18, 2022

W R I G H T

P L U S

P R E V I E W

Are you a Seller looking for the Right Buyer? Or a Buyer looking for the House that’s Right for you? Or maybe you want a Wright House? Call Patti Sprafka Wagner! SOLD

Oak Park

UNDER CONTRACT

Oak Park

UNDER CONTRACT

Oak Park

FRANK LLOYD WRIGHT TRUST/JAMES CAULFIELD

John and Elsie Vette House (William G. Barfield, 1905)

WRIGHT PLUS from page B3 Kennedy House. It is likely that the coach house was originally planned as a stable and later morphed into a garage with an apartment on the second floor. The Boyntons are honored in the name of the structure because they are the owners who converted the structure into a single-family home. The James and Helen Hayden House was designed by William K. Johnston in 1893. The Queen Anne-style home has a unique exterior of brick, cedar shingles and limestone. The local landmark is significant as it is the only major known work of architect William K. Johnston in Oak Park and because it differs architecturally from its neighbors in the variety of materials used, its asymmetrical massing and avoidance of flat wall surfaces. The John and Elsie Vette House was designed by architect William Barfield in 1905. The Prairie Style residence has a brick base with stucco above. The twostory home features a side-entry porch, hip roof and brick chimneys. The Edward and Mary Hills/Thomas and Irene DeCaro House, remodeled by

Wright in 1906, is a Japanese-influenced, Prairie Style home. When built for William Gray in 1883, the home was a Stick-style Victorian home. In 1900, neighbor Nathan Moore purchased the home as a wedding gift for his daughter, Mary, upon her marriage to Edward Hills, and he eventually brought in Wright to remodel the home. The home was altered significantly throughout its history. Tom and Irene DeCaro purchased the home in 1975 and began a restoration that was halted when a fire devastated the home. The DeCaros then restored the house, relying in part on Wright’s blueprints from his earlier remodel. The William and Frances Copeland House was remodeled by Wright in 1909. Built in 1873 for William Harman, an unknown architect designed the Italianate style home on Forest Avenue. Wright remodeled the interior to reflect the Prairie Style for the surgeon Copeland, renovating much of the main floor and designing dining room furniture for the family as well. The Laura Gale House, designed by Wright in 1909 on Elizabeth Court is the third house Wright designed for the Gales, after two houses he designed for them on Chicago Avenue.

SOLD

Stunning 4 BR, 2.1 BA Prairie Style with Roman fireplace, natural woodwork, stained glass windows, hardwood floors and tons of character. Remodeled baths, first floor Family Room, eat-in Kitchen and huge Office!.......................$895,000

Exceptional 5 BR, 2.1 BA Victorian with Prairie Style influence. Brick fireplace, built-in buffet & armoire and hardwood floors. Fantastic white cabinet, island Kitchen opens up to the Family Room & sliders lead out to the Deck .................................... $1,050,000

Perfect center of town location for this 3-Story townhouse with private Deck. Island Kitchen with outstanding Pantry & balcony, luxurious master suite, Family Room, attached 2-car garage, and dual heat and c/a. Just move in! ........... $675,000

Forest Park Darling 3+ BR, 3 BA Bungalow Sun Rm off the Living Rm, Kitchen will Breakfast Nook, Loft, Sauna, Hot Tub, hardwood floors, Gorgeous new gas fireplace flanked by bookcases, new Mud Rm with heated floor & custom built-ins ...... $500,000

Chicago Magazine 5 Star Agent Legend (10 years running) Patti Sprafka Wagner Contact me 708-218-8102, 1pswagner@gmail.com, for a Market Evaluation of your property - You’ll find I’m a proven leader in the local market.

See WRIGHT PLUS on page B6

May 18, 2022 ■ Wednesday Journal/Forest Park Review

B5

W R I G H T

P L U S

P R E V I E W

Oak Park

Fantastic opportunity to own this beautiful large condo in the heart of downtown Oak Park 2 BR, 2 BA ........................................................................................................................$199,000 Steve Scheuring • 708-369-8043

FRANK LLOYD WRIGHT TRUST/JAMES CAULFIELD

James and Helen Hayden House (William K. Johnston, 1893)

WRIGHT PLUS from page B5 This Prairie Style home is unique among Wright’s Oak Park works for its extreme rectilinear shapes and masses. Blaine says it’s as if Wright were saying with this house, “I’m almost done with the Prairie Style. Look what we can do here.” All eight houses have been extensively researched by Wright Plus volunteers, many of whom are experts in their fields. “Our researchers really dig in and find more information and things about prior owners,” said Wright Plus Co-Chair Vicki

Kwarciany. “It’s such a gift to our homeowners, even those who have been on the walk before. The researchers are always finding new things.” Blaine says those histories are a big draw for Wright Plus. “You can talk about the architecture- and we do have fabulous architecture,” Blaine said. “And you can talk about building materials, but otherwise, guests really like to hear about the people who built and remodeled these houses and how they lived.” Wright Plus, says Blaine, allows guests “to really imagine what happened here and why people called these places home. The walk shows us what makes a fabulous house a home.”

Oak Park

Magnificent Victorian with amazing architectural details and modern amenities. 5 BR, 2.1 BA .....................................................................................................................$680,000 Steve Scheuring • 708-369-8043

Want to see your listings in Distinctive Properties? Contact Marc Stopeck at 708.613.3330 or marc@oakpark.com

B6 View more at OakPark.com/Real-Estate ■ May 18, 2022

Wright Plus 2022 is sold out Tickets to the Wright Plus 2022 housewalk sold out a few weeks before the walk, marking a triumphant return for the venerable housewalk after two years of pandemic upheaval. In addition, the Ultimate Plus Weekend package which includes fast pass tickets to the walk, hotel accommodations, a Friday Wright tour, and an ex-

clusive dinner in a Frank Lloyd Wright home for $2,675 is also sold out. Ultimate Saturday tickets which include fast pass tickets to the walk, a luncheon and an exclusively Wright dinner for $1,375 are also sold out. The date has been set for May 20, 2023 for the next Wright Plus, and ticket sales will likely commence in early 2023.

189 S. Oak Park Ave., Oak Park, IL 60302 (708) 386-1400

HomesInTheVillage.com

Featured Listings for This Week 505 River Oaks Dr. • Open Sun 11-1 pm

Erika Villegas,

Managing Broker/Owner

Kyra Pych

River Forest $739,000 3BR, 2BA Call Marion

Oak Park $625,000 3BR, 2BA Call Kris

Berwyn $604,900 5BR, 3.1BA Call Laurie

Oak Park $479,000 3BR, 3.2BA Call Jane

Berwyn $445,000 7BR, 2BA Call Erika

Forest Park $435,000 Multi unit Call Kyra

Berwyn $400,000 4BR, 2.1BA Call Kris

Oak Park $350,000 3BR, 2BA Call Kris

Berwyn $239,900 2BR, 1BA Call Maria

Berwyn $239,900 3BR, 1.1BA Call Maria

Oak Park $160,000 1BR, 1BA Call Mike

Chicago $145,000 2BR, 1BA Call Erika

Mike Becker

Laurie Christofano

Maria Rodriguez

Linda Rooney

Marion Digre

Morgan Digre

Kris Sagan

Leticia Cruz

Patti Sprafka-Wagner

Jane McClelland

Harry Walsh

May 18, 2022 ■ Wednesday Journal/Forest Park Review

B7

CELEBRATING THE annual WRIGHT PLUS WALK!

Defining the art of selling real estate.

6 Elizabeth Ct., Oak Park

222 Gale Ave., River Forest

427 N Grove Ave., Oak Park

435 William, 709, River Forest

230 S. Euclid Ave., Oak Park

339 Forest Ave., River Forest

306 Keystone Ave., River Forest

Looking for your own architectural GEM? 550 Forest Ave., Oak Park 622 N Lombard Ave., Oak Park 719 Forest Ave., Oak Park We have one for you! 1323 Jackson Avenue in River Forest

70 X 188 Landscaped Lot Outdoor Kitchen with Pizza Oven 4 Bedrooms 4.1 Bathrooms Family room & Finished 3rd floor.

1005 N Kenilworth Ave., Oak Park 1005 South Blvd., 402, Oak Park 1019 N Elmwood Ave., Oak Park 1103 Keystone Ave., River Forest

$1,349,000

BUYING OR SELLING? PUT THE POWER OF THE GPS TEAM TOILWORK FOR YOU. 1011 South Boulevard | Oak Park, IL 60302 1011 South Boulevard | Oak Park, 60302 office 708.366.0400 GPS@atproperties Greer Haseman, Broker 708-606-8896 cell | 708-366-0200 office greer@atproperties.com

Greer Haseman

office 708.366.0400 GPS@atproperties

Chris Curran, Broker 708-366-0400 cell ChrisCurran@atproperties.com

atproperties.com

1011 South Boulevard | Oak Park, IL 60302 | Office 708.366.0400 | greer@atproperties.com

B8 View more at OakPark.com/Real-Estate ■ May 18, 2022

Call us to help you find your architectural gem!

sold!

sold!

sold!

228 Forest Ave., Oak Park

323 S. Grove Ave., Oak Park

1019 Erie St., Oak Park

sold!

sold!

under contract!

209 S Euclid Ave., Oak Park

122 Gale Ave., River Forest

1015 N. Grove Ave., River Forest

atproperties.com May 18, 2022 ■ Wednesday Journal/Forest Park Review

B9

W R I G H T

P L U S

P R E V I E W

Family connections on Wright Plus Research reveals close-knit history of Forest Avenue neighborhood

By LACEY SIKORA Contributing Reporter

Wright Plus Co-Chair Sue Blaine says that one of the fun things about this year’s walk is how interconnected the homes and their early owners were to each other. Oak Park was a smaller town in the late 1800s and early 1900s when these homes were constructed, and many of the early owners had familial or other connections to their neighbors. Quite a few of the homes in the neighborhood were built as dowry gifts. The Vette House was built as a wedding gift for Elsie Vette, daughter of Susan Beachy, whose home down the street was a Frank Lloyd Wright remodel. The Hills-DeCaro House was originally commissioned in 1883 for William Gray. The home was later purchased by Nathan Moore who owned the house to the north. Moore hired Wright to remodel the home for his daughter who married Harry Hills. Wright also designed Nathan Moore’s own home, which faces the Hills-DeCaro House across a broad lawn on Forest Avenue “The number of dowry houses here is astounding,” Blaine said. A past feature on Wright Plus, the Purcell House on Forest Avenue was built by Gray’s son and daughter-in-law across the street from Gray’s house. That couples’

Edward and Mary Hills/Thomas and Irene DeCaro House (Frank Lloyd Wright remodel, 1906)

William and Frances Copeland House (Frank Lloyd Wright remodel, 1909)

B10 View more at OakPark.com/Real-Estate ■ May 18, 2022

son, William Gray Purcell, became a noted Prairie School architect. The Copelands, whose Italianate House on Forest Avenue was also remodeled by Wright, had several daughters. Their daughter Frances married Walter Pratt Beachy, Susan Beachy’s son. Walter Beachy worked with Frank Lloyd Wright’s second son, John, in creating the iconic Lincoln Logs toys. The Copelands’ younger daughter, Harriet, lived with her family in Wright’s Home and Studio from 1929 to 1934 as a renter. Blaine notes that the Humphrey House, one of the older homes on this year’s walk with a build date of 1887, was once part of a much larger parcel. The Humphreys owned the southeast corner of Forest and Elizabeth Court, including the lots that are now

2, 4, and 6 Elizabeth Court. They built their first house on Lot 2 and their second house, which is featured on Wright Plus, on Lot 4. The Humphreys sold Lot 6 to the Gale family, who constructed the Laura Gale House on the site. Laura and Thomas Gale purchased the Humphrey House and to live in while their home on Lot 6 was under construction. Thomas Gale died before the family moved in to the Humphrey house on Lot 4. Blaine says the connections, some of which are just being discovered today with better research methods, make for a fun walk. “I don’t know if all blocks have this much interrelationship,” Blaine said. “It makes for a fun little glimpse into life in those days.”

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May 18, 2022 ■ Wednesday Journal/Forest Park Review

B11

P R O P E R T Y

Oak Park home sells for $1,032,000

T R A N S F E R S

The following property transfers were reported by the Cook County Clerk from January 2022. Where addresses appear incomplete, for instance where a unit number appears missing, that information was not provided by the clerk.

OAK PARK ADDRESS

PRICE

SELLER

BUYER

523 Wesley Ave 6648 Roosevelt Rd 841 N Euclid Ave 1110 N Kenilworth Ave 323 S Grove Ave 1102 N Taylor Ave 138 Clinton Ave 544 N Kenilworth Ave 911 N East Ave 1127 S Harvey Ave 1200 Columbian Ave 518 N Ridgeland Ave 1143 N Kenilworth Ave 1047 Woodbine Ave 1228 Columbian Ave 134 S Scoville Ave 738 S Elmwood Ave 823 S Harvey Ave 821 S Humphrey Ave 250 Iowa St 617 S Kenilworth Ave 1218 N Harvey Ave 300 Home Ave 721 Ontario St 611 S Harvey Ave 235 S Marion St 222 Lake St 637 S Ridgeland Ave 617 S Euclid Ave 802 Harvard St 931 S Humphrey Ave 646 N Grove Ave 1110 N Humphrey Ave 605 S Lyman Ave 618 S Cuyler Ave 612 S Highland Ave

Unknown $1,485,500 $1,032,000 $937,000 $840,000 $755,000 $750,000 $700,000 $689,000 $675,000 $670,000 $655,000 $643,000 $640,000 $640,000 $600,000 $591,000 $585,000 $549,000 $540,000 $540,000 $533,000 $500,000 $475,000 $470,000 $461,500 $450,000 $438,000 $430,000 $415,000 $405,000 $365,000 $360,000 $350,000 $345,000 $327,000

The Judicial Sales Corp Oil Express Natl Inc Welch Kenna Masuda Cleaveland William C Jackola Glenn D Jr Fashomz Investments Inc Boyd-Pitman Selena Jenkins Lewis W Dilenardi Steven Winters Michelle D Hayden John Foust Michael Matigian Diana C Tr Lemieux John P Carberry Colm Paul Noel C Flannery Bernadette Yingling Charles Sheehanmanor Llc White Malcolm J Tr Martin Frederick A Tr Foster Ronald Molitas Sammy Tr Hafeman Carol Pilcher Elmer Jr Staffeldt Jeffrey Eugene 222 Lake St Llc Tyson Spencer A Chitwood Judith M Tr Biel Joseph R Crystal Canyon Llc Lorch Janet A Gulley Nathan T Mojica Jose M Gomez-Torres Aileen Tr Moore Tamson

Deutsche Bk Natl Trust Co Tr Aterra 159 6644 Roosevelt Oak Pk Llc Kurdziel Annie Buerki Robert A Vogt Scott Lu Ting Tran Gillespie Christine K Johnson Kurt Platt Lauren Bogzevitz Christopher Kalamkar Anand Oshinowo Sarah George Princy P Sharpe Robert C French Lisa Lockett-Hart Mercedez Vasquez Melissa De Jesus De La Pena-Gamboa Nathalie Morefield David Kooyers Kaitlyn L Paice Gary P Peterson Thomas J Zamula Sergiy Logan Squared Llc Hillman Brandy J Downey William Donald Idot1966 Llc Herring Phillip M Barry Megan Alfaro Cynthia Jones Xavier Escobedo Mignel Arzu Rose A Spruce And Douglas Llc Callone Natalie Del Villar Valeria Milagros

B12 View more at OakPark.com/Real-Estate ■ May 18, 2022

841 N Euclid Ave., Oak Park

OAK PARK ADDRESS

PRICE

SELLER

BUYER

644 S Cuyler Ave 1047 N Humphrey Ave 1105 S Lombard Ave 7110 Roosevelt Rd 169 N Grove Ave 169 N Grove Ave 807 N Lombard Ave 428 S Maple Ave 222 N Marion St 304 N Oak Park Ave 927 S Grove Ave 420 Home Ave 609 Madison St 127 Washington Blvd 425 Home Ave 1033 Ontario St 340 N Austin Blvd 815 Lake St 821 Lake St 222 N Grove Ave 405 S Elmwood Ave 720 N Austin Blvd

$325,000 $315,000 $310,000 $250,000 $247,000 $242,500 $235,000 $229,000 $227,000 $220,000 $215,000 $179,000 $175,000 $175,000 $172,500 $172,000 $170,000 $153,500 $137,000 $135,000 $135,000 $128,000

Jiang Petra Boyd Dawn T Beasley Angela M Solis Pedro Williams Thomas Shewmake Donald P Espinoza B Victor Wessels Jay D Tr Qiu Wet Rodgers Bran T Ganschow David Martinez Marissa 1016a Llc Williams Kyle Geoege Haggar Javier F Cosbey John J Reece Amy Marie Wasson Samuel Matthew Clausen Bente Unser Robert Extr Williams Brenda J Sow Comm Dev Corp

Flynn David C Gray Pamela Divita Elaine C Ungureanu Predrag Tang Xiaoyin Cosbey John Sun Michael L Ross Finlay Schiess Ronda S Morrissy Kelly A Martinez Raymundo Williams Matthew Yerzin Prop 609 Llc Santori Gianna Sadler Carl Pond Frank C Luevano Charity A Gladysz David John Trevisano Trust Cherny Vladimir V Spiller Steve Magee Alantrice

P R O P E R T Y

T R A N S F E R S

OAK PARK ADDRESS

PRICE

SELLER

BUYER

925 Clarence Ave 405 Home Ave 104 N. Oak Park 211 N Grove Ave 415 Wesley Ave 1104 S Austin Blvd

$121,000 $118,000 $103,000 $102,500 $100,000 $100,000

Olmstead Lisa Kay Rhoten Robert R Newnett I Llc Stratton Scott Stevaux Noopoth Smith Bonita Tr

Razo Rosita Sokhan Nataliya Safford Charo Conway Jacques A Jackson La Torsha Shanae Dominic Pilati

$1,400,000 $1,297,000 $900,000 $835,000 $790,000 $660,000 $487,000 $455,000 $341,000 $340,000 $255,000 $210,000

414 Clinton Pl 7204 Oak Ave 1531 Monroe Ave

$188,000 $140,000 $124,000

Novelle Nicholas A Cagnina Michael Alsip Llc Kemper Edward Michael Li Jun Chicago Title Land Trust Co Tr 3931 Patzelt Grace R Tr Lococo Donna C Tr Pettinger John Supekar Sarang Lawrence Raymond L Chicago Title Land Trust Co Tr 8002385725 Pace Derrick Dmytrenko Iryna Newnett I Llc

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FOREST PARK 945 Elgin Ave 508 Thomas Ave 426 Hannah Ave 7652 Wilcox St 827 Circle Avek 1238 Marengo Ave 934 Lathrop Ave 7329 Jackson Blvd 1039 Troost Ave 1021 Elgin Ave 7716 Harvard St 1022 Troost Ave 211 Elgin Avek 235 Marengo Ave 1430 Elgin Ave 235 Marengo Ave 7640 Madison St 7251 Randolph St 300 Circle Ave 926 Dunlop Ave

Unknown $595,000 $545,000 $513,000 $469,000 $387,000 $317,000 $315,000 $300,000 $280,000 $267,000 $265,000 $250,000 $235,000 $231,000 $225,000 $150,000 $127,500 $105,000 $77,000

The Judicial Sales Corp Spinelle Michael S Zinni Mark F Tr Gk Home Inc Javor Kenneth Villalobos Lindy V&T Inv Corp Pickren Asia M Chicago Title Land Trust Co Tr 2000 Villalobos Mark Scott Lita G Powell Victor Hasegaw Naoto Woods Ashley M Largenterprises Llc Gongol Kenneth E Trust Chicago Title Land Trust Co Tr 5388 Ruan Xulei Alvarez Milton M Algazzar Samia

Us Bk Trust Natl Assn Tr Abraham Mary Stigger Aaron Piscopo Alexander Jacob David M Hall Brandy Laverdure Christophe Corral Alex Deluca Jennifer M Pedraza Alejandro Sorrell Natalie Howard Stephen L Mendoza Luth M Bowinan Lolita M Garza Daniel A Martin Mildred Buckley Christopher Grover Timothy Cobos Cindy G Fleitas Mario A Pereyra

KATHY & TONY IWERSEN

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May 18, 2022 ■ Wednesday Journal/Forest Park Review

B13

10

Wednesday Journal, April 13, 2022

OAKPARK.COM | RIVERFOREST.COM

S P O N S O R E D

C O N T E N T

Savor five sunny pleasures in Elmwood Park

MELISSA ELSMO

A range of outdoor dining options entice al fresco diners to venture north

Basking in the sun on a breezy Food Writer patio during the warm summer months is a hallmark of the Chicagoland dining scene. No matter if you are looking for a picnic table on a grassy lawn, a cluster of bustling sidewalk tables or an indoor-outdoor party room, Elmwood Park has a proper space to meet practically any al fresco dining desire. As the calendar

moves deeper into spring, outdoor dining spaces along Restaurant Row (and beyond) are coming back to life. Get your daily dose of Vitamin D while savoring iconic beef sandwiches, sunny shrimp and cooling ice cream shakes in our sister suburb to the north. 1. PORK ON A PICNIC TABLE: Looking to fulfill an all-American picnic fantasy? Plan to pay a visit to Russell’s Barbecue, 1621 N. Thatcher Ave. -- the meat-focused mainstay has been a family tradition since 1930. Just behind the retro restaurant, diners will discover a bevy of picnic tables just waiting to be used. No matter if you order the original slow roasted pork sandwich or a slab of tender ribs, pork tends to taste better when served on a picnic table. Russell’s simply seasoned meats are designed to be doused with their house made barbecue sauce prized for the Jamaican spices and bold cinnamon notes that keep customers coming back to Russell’s year-after-year. 2. SAVOR SUMMER AT JOHNNIE’S: Widely celebrated for serving some of best Italian beef sandwiches, Johnnie’s, 7500 North Ave., is only made better by a

The original pork sandwich on a picnic table at Russell’s Barbecue in Elmwood Park. Melissa Elsmo

sunny day and a cup of Italian ice. Though beef piled on a bakery bun and enhanced by the addition of optional sweet or hot peppers is a delightful indulgence anytime of year, Johnnie’s only offers outdoor seating at their counter service venue. For more than 60 years, hungry folks have been lining up on sunny days to savor one of Chicago’s signature sandwiches. 3. FEEL THE BREEZE AT JIM AND PETE’S: Jim and Pete’s state-of-theart party room is designed to welcome guests to enjoy an indoor-outdoor dining experience. The retractable roof offers protection from a sudden rain shower when dining at the Italian mainstay, 7806 W. North Ave. Enjoy cross breezes as you savor house made rigatoni, succulent seafood, or remarkable risotto at Jim and Pete’s.

A chocolate shake from Burger Moovment.

B14 View more at OakPark.com/Real-Estate ■ May 18, 2022

Lourdes Nicholls

4. A MINI GET AWAY: Flowing plants, windchimes and twinkle lights bring a distinctly vacation feel to Café Cubano, 7426 W. North Ave. Gather around a table on the sidewalk to enjoy sunny dishes like the camerones flamenco appetizer — the dish featuring shrimp in tomato sauce with toast, is large enough to be enjoyed in

Johnnie’s beef sandwich with lemon ice. Andy Kaczkowski

Wednesday Journal, April 13, 2022

OAKPARK.COM | RIVERFOREST.COM

Feel the Breeze at Jim and Pete’s when you dine in their party room with a retractable celling.

Provided

11

Pistachio and hazelnut gelato on a gorgeous day at Massa Café Italiano. Melissa Elsmo

lieu of an entrée. No matter what you order it will pair perfectly with a mojito! 5. COOL OFF WITH SWEET TREATS: If you crave a sweet ending to a sunny day look no further than Restaurant Row along North Avenue for gelato filled cones or cold ice cream shakes. The summer tradition of patio dining is alive and well at Massa Café Italiano, at 7434 W. North Ave. The cheery café is a natural gathering place in Elmwood Park and no visit to the vibrant destination is complete without a scoop of

their award-winning gelato — available in traditional flavors. Burger Moovment, 7512 W. North Ave., serves up nostalgia in the form of stackable smash burgers, crispy handcut fries and sweet ice cream shakes. The signature toasted coconut shake is the perfect sweet indulgence on a toasty day, but everyday flavors like chocolate, vanilla, strawberry, caramel, and cookies and cream are all suited to keeping you cool on a warm afternoon.

Shrimp in the sun at Cafe Cubano. Melissa Elsmo

For more culinary delights, visit OakPark.com and click on EATS. May 18, 2022 ■ Wednesday Journal/Forest Park Review

B15

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Hometown

When it’s more than a home, you need a team with more to offer.

528 N Cuyler Ave Oak Park | $890,000 Swati Saxena

708 Gunderson Ave Oak Park | $709,000 Vanessa Willey

101 N Euclid Ave #12 Oak Park | $580,000 Patricia McGowan

729 S Oak Park Ave Oak Park | $559,000 Bethanny Alexander

28 Ashland Ave River Forest | $535,000 Sheila Price

3742 Gunderson Ave Berwyn | $500,000 The Dita Group

604 Woodbine Ave Oak Park | $499,900 Elizabeth O’Connell

808 N Humphrey Ave Oak Park | $415,000 Saretta Joyner

1631 N 73rd Ave Elmwood Park | $400,000 Cathy Yanda

8219 Lake St River Forest | $395,000 Catherine Simon-Vobornik

170 N Marion St #9 Oak Park | $379,000 Patricia McGowan

824 N Ridgeland Ave Oak Park | $359,000 Edwin Wald

324 N Marion St #2N Oak Park | $322,000 Carla Taylor

3833 Wenonah Ave Berwyn | $315,000 Roberta Ruiz

1407 N Harlem Ave B Oak Park | $300,000 Saretta Joyner

2400 S 2nd Ave North Riverside | $280,000 The Dita Group

427 S Taylor Ave #3N Oak Park | $225,000 Carla Taylor

7344 Lake St #3E River Forest | $210,000 Elizabeth O’Connell

1200 Cuyler Ave C2 Berwyn | $159,900 Roman Lewis

615 Washington Blvd #1S Oak Park | $152,500 Saretta Joyner

Baird & Warner Oak Park/River Forest | 1037 Chicago Ave. Oak Park, IL 60302 | 708.697.5900 | oakpark.bairdwarner.com Source: BrokerMetrics® LLC, 1/1/2019 - 12/ 31/2019Detached and Attached only. Chicagoland PMSA

B16 View more at OakPark.com/Real-Estate ■ May 18, 2022