As the Park District of Forest Park finishes up designs and prepares to replace the main playg round and turf field at the park this fall, some residents are still expressing unease over fee increases and feeling left out of the discussion.
The project will focus on building a new turf field, the main park playground and updates to the area surrounding them. On top of that, an outdoor classroom, game tables and a putting green will be incorporated into the devel-
Thursday, June 25 • 7pm
19th Century Club • 178 N. Forest Ave, Oak Park
AFTER THE BROADVIEW 6
Join Oak Park Trustee Brian Straw and attorney Chris Parente for a candid conversation about the Broadview 6 case, the dismissal of all remaining charges, and the personal, legal, and civic impact of a prosecution that drew national attention.
THURSDAY, JUNE 25 AT 7 PM
Moderated by veteran journalist Charlie Meyerson, the discussion will explore what happened, what was learned, and what comes next. Free and open to the public.
19th Century Club (178 N. Forest Ave., Oak Park)
King leaves mark on OPRF boys basketball
Late Bulls broadcaste River Forest resident ha nephew on Huskies
By MELVIN TATE
Contributing Reporter
Most Chicago Bulls fans know that broadcaster Stacey King died suddenly on June 7 following a reported fall in his home. But many may not realize that King was living in River Forest at the time of his death. One of King’s nephews, Aco graduated from Oak Park and River Fo High School earlier this month and was a member of the Huskies boys basketball team for the past year and a half.
“It’s tragic. We were caught off-guard,” said OPRF coach Phil Gary. “I go on how people treat me, and Stacey was one of the nicest people I’ve ever met in my life. I only knew him personally for a year and a half, but in that time he was super-nice to me and the kids in the program.
“He’d invite us to some of the (Bulls) games, stay afterward and talk with some of the players on the court. You don’t meet too many people like Stacey.”
When his players found out about King’s death, they reached out.
“They were very upset. Stacey didn’t have to do the things he did. He did them because he was a very nice person,” Gary said.
Acoya King, who missed the past season with an injury, is still grieving the loss of
“He’d invite us to some of the (Bulls) games, stay a erward and talk with some of the players on the cour t. You don’t meet too many people like Stacey.”
PHIL GARY OPRF head basketball coach
SUBMITTED TRENT WILLIAMS
OPRF High School boys basketball rising junior Trent Williams
his uncle, which is why Gary talks with him every day to provide support
“Even though I [only] coached him for half a season,” he said, “I told him he could reach out to me at any time.”
OPRF’s players have also been supportive of Acoya, who will play collegiately at Kishwaukee Community Colle ge
“Acoya is a great friend of mine,” said OPRF rising junior Trent Williams. “I never got to meet Stacey King, but I always watch the Bulls games and he was a good, funny commentator. I knew that hurt Acoya when that happened, so I texted him to let him know I was sorry for his loss.”
OPRF summer basketball
Stacey King was also a solid basketball player. He was the Bulls’ first-round pick out of Oklahoma in the 1989 NBA Draft and was part of the Bulls’ first “three-peat” championship teams from 1991 to 1993.
Stacey King onboard the ight deck of the amphibious assault ship USS Bataan (LHD 5) just pr ior to the Navy Marine Corps Classic 2012 game between the Florida Gators and Georgetow n Hoyas.
He would have appreciated OPRF’s strong showing in summer competition this month. T he Huskies are 11-4 overall and sport a 6-2 record at NCAA Live Event g ames, including 2-2 at the Romeoville Pre-Live Summer Shootout last week.
In their first g ame on June 18, the Huskies defeated Marian Central 62-50. Later that day, OPRF fell 49-45 to Plainfield South.
On June 20, the Huskies routed Argo 7435, but dropped their shootout finale to St Ignatius 47-45.
“The way I see it, we could’ve played better,” Williams said of the Romeoville event. “But as a team, from last year to this year, I feel we play with much more chemistry than we did last year. This weekend, we pushed the ball and got after it on both sides of the floor. We played great defense and played really hard; we really want to win.”
In addition to Williams, Gary feels
OPRF has received good consistent play this summer from rising senior D’Angelo Perkins and rising junior Owen Towne
“They ’re doing pretty well,” Gary said. “The returners are setting the tone. Owen has grown a little bit and he’s filling out. D’Angelo’s grown two inches since the end of the season, and Trent is getting stronger and more aggressive, and his game is just developing quicker.”
Williams is optimistic about a turnaround for the Huskies, who have struggled in recent seasons, especially in the West Suburban Conference Silver Division.
“Last year was the first time most of us played together, and I feel now that we have that year of chemistry, even though it was rough,” he said, “it’s carried over and we’ve been doing great this summer.
“I just want to do what I have to do to help us win. A big pa rt of my game is winning and wanting to win. As a team, we’re real hungry.” PO1 M ARCUS
By RISÉ SANDERS-WEIR Eats Reporter
Animal Care League, 1009 Garfield St. in Oak Park, served up hot dogs, tours of the facilities and community awareness at its bark-yard picnic on June 20.
“We’re more than a shelter, meaning that we want to be part of the community,” said Renee Harlor, the executive director. “Our goal is to show people what we can offer. We also hope to get volunteers and fosters. I just did a tour and I said, ‘The biggest thing you can do is tell people about us because we want people to know we’re here for their companion animals.’”
Stations set up throughout the facility helped the community lear n about all the programs and possibilities of fered by the no-kill facility that serves eight local villages.
For many neighbors, they came for the info and food, but really it was about something else.
“I wanted to see the cute animals,” Giulietta Labriola said.
“I came here to see the puppies,” her brother Luca Labriola said.
One “alumni” of the shelter, a chihuahua named Winnie, came back for a visit with her companion human, David Williams. Winnie was a foster staying at Williams’ home as she recovered her health. Many small dogs have stayed with them before and after, but she stole their hearts, according to Williams.
A food tent in the open air play area
ACL’s second annual Bark
Animal Care League raises
served beef and ve ggie hot dogs. For adults $10, children $5 the dog came with a drink, chips and dessert. Cupcakes and decorated sugar cookies were provided by Jennifer J. Olenn. Her JJO Bake Co. is a local cottage bakery that specializes in ve gan treats.
The expanded facility at ACL opened in 2024. The 19,000 square foot space serves animals and people.
“It’s given us the space to offer behavior training,” Harlor said. “It’s done by our behavior team, so it’s positive reinforcement. They have tremendous experience working with the animals. The public can take part in it and alumni animals can get that continued training.”
The staf f depends on volunteers to run at its best.
“We can’t do it without them,” Harlor said. “They contribute thousands of hours each month from dog walking, to admin, to setting up events like this.”
A partnership with Kriser’s pet products company helps ACL stock a supply pantry available for anyone who is experiencing financial stress. Supplies from it can also be delivered to homebound seniors.
ACL recently began a junior volunteer program for teens 15-17 years old.
“They’re getting experience in customer service,” she said. “They’re doing dishes, washing windows. But then they’re also getting to go into the clinic. All our programs teach responsible partnership and kindness toward all living things.”
Concordia Cemetery – Forest Park, IL
RISÉ SANDERS-WEIR
Picnic in the Bark-yard
RISÉ SANDERS-WEIR
Animal Care League, 1009 Gar eld, Oak Park
RISÉ SANDERS-WEIR
David Williams and his decked-out dog, Winnie
Oak Park barber, native of Albania, apprehended by ICE
‘Peace-loving, honest, hardworking guy. He’s doing the American dream’
By GREGG VOSS Contributing Reporter
For years, Nik Shembitrasi has been cutting Charles Wells’ hair at Frank’s Barber Shop at the Oak Park Arms, along with that of his grandson. But not recently.
Not since Shembitrasi, 49, who’s given first name is Besnik, was apprehended in May outside ofhis Elmwood Park home by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
“He’s a very nice guy,” Wells said. “Peaceloving, honest, hardworking guy. He’s doing the American dream. Being a barber, he works really hard.”
An ICE representative confirmed Monday that Shembitrasi, who immigrated
from Albania in 2006 and is not a U.S. citizen, is currently in immigration hold in Brazil, Ind., in Clay County, just east of Terre Haute and about 150 miles southwest of Indianapolis.
On Sunday morning at Frank’s, 416 S. Oak Park Ave., a gold street sign with the embossed name “Nik” was posted above the head ofhis uncle and boss, Frank Shemitraku, who seemed to work hard to maintain a positive posture.
“He’s not just my nephew … he did everything,” Shemitraku said. “Work hard, two jobs, help each other. His wife is (a) U.S. citizen, his daughter was born here. His parents are legal here. How can they take this guy outside and separate (him) from the family?
“Who is going to support (them)? His daughter is 8 years old. He’s the only guy to support his people.”
About seven years ago, Shemitraku purchased his Oak Park barber shop, which complements his 100-year-old location in Elmwood Park. Shembitrasi started work-
TODD BANNOR
Barber Frank Shemitraku in his shop at the Oak Park Arms.
BARBER
ICE strikes again from page 5
ing for him shortly afterward, after acquiring his licensure in cosmetology.
On Sunday, Shemitraku recalled the youthful Shembitrasi in Albania, who was always quick to jump in to help. Just like his adult counterpart.
“Anything you told him to do, he (would) never say no,” he said. “Same thing working here. Anything I said to him, he was ready. He worked construction. He just
dicating that was the moment his nephew was apprehended by ICE agents From there, Shembitrasi was transported to ICE’s Broadview facility before moving on to Indiana.
“He called his wife, he told her the situation, and now, we hope,” he said.
Shemitraku has not been to Indiana to meet with his nephew but did speak to him on the phone late last week.
“He cares about his family, especially his daughter, who is very close with him,” he said. “She has friends … ‘Why did they take my father?’”
But more importantly, Shemitraku said, Shembitrasi has been told little by ICE about his situation. He has
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bought a house in Elmwood Park a year ago.
“Very nice with customers, he treats the customers nice and a lot of respect for everybody.”
But things went south on a Sunday last month, said Shemitraku, who was working at his Oak Park location at the time. At about 9 a.m. that day, his niece – Shembitrasi’s sister – called to relay the news.
“He came outside to meet his father for some coffee, Albanian coffee,” he said. “He just (went) to the car.”
At that point, Shemitraku shrugged, in-
a Chicago-based attorney, who declined a Wednesday Journal request for comment via Shemitraku. Shembitrasi’s wife also declined comment.
Wednesday Journal attempted to reach Shembitrasi via ICE’s media relations apparatus but was unsuccessful.
Wells said he’s concerned for Shembitrasi, but not only him.
“Why would you take a law-abiding citizen with a job, with no problems at all?” he said. “People don’t realize how serious this is. It’s intimidation, a lot of it.
“They can do anything they want.”
TODD BANNOR
Barber Frank Shemitraku in front of his Oak Park location at the Oak Park Arms holds an honorary Elmwood Park street sign from his Elmwood Park location.
BABS Comedy Club closes temporarily for upgrade
Madison St. venue will shut down, June 22-Aug. 26, to shi from premade canned drinks to full-service bar
By JESSICA MORDACQ Staff Reporter
The two bode ga coolers of canned cocktails, wine and beer Comedy Club will soon be full bar constructed by the club’s owner.
Over a year-and-a-half after edy Club opened in Forest Park at 7316 Madison St. in October 2024, the owner is closing June 22 to build a bar. The venue will reopen at the end of August with a bar boasting an ice machine, soda gun, garnish station, reach-in coolers, a liquor display and five stools for patrons to order drinks from during comedy shows.
“It’s a scary thing to take a temporary closing when the business is so young,” Emily Ramirez, owner of BABS Comedy Club, told the Review. But she hopes the full bar will better match the aesthetics of the club and bring in more revenue.
Ramirez said premixed and canned drinks currently make up 35-to-40% of sales that the markup on these drinks is lower than what she could charge on hand-mixed cocktails, so she’s making 25-to-35% less revenue than she would be with a full-service bar.
had it been original,” from the early 1900s, Ramirez said. “It’s going to be very glowy, intimate and pretty.”
with experience in plumbing and electric, did a lot of triage in the initial months that they owned the building.
year of BABS Comedy Club. Her profit in the second year has covered nearly all the equipment for the new bar.
“I think that the price point and type of events we could host for a private party might level up because visually the area looks so much better, and we would have a proper full bar,” Ramire z said.
By the end of August, Ramire z said she hopes the bar area will be fully functional, even if decorative arches, silvered mercury glass and shelving behind the bar isn’t installed until late fall.
“We wanted to build a bar that looks like it could have existed in this building
After Ramirez closed on 7316 Madison St. in 2023, she and her husband, Chase Maness, completely redid the street-level business that used to be Studio 8 and three upstairs apar tments, one of which the couple lives in. Ramire z told the Review that she and her husband, who’s an engineer
long time to build a reputation of a business. If your business is a bar, you need everything to be perfect and ready to go. If your business is comedy, your comedy needs to be ready to go, and it was.”
Ramirez thought that, if she had enough momentum with the comedy club, she might even be able to use revenue to pay for construction of a new bar. Without any investors, Ramire z said she was able to pay of f all her business debt after the first
still available for requests for her house team of 20 improvisers and go-to group of Chicagoland stand-up comedians to perform elsewhere.
“Any oppor tunity I can give my perfor mers to get some reps and some cash when I’m not able to provide that for them, I would be happy to facilitate,” Ramire z said. “I just want to get the word out that the talent is still here, and we’re ready to go, just anywhere but BABS.”
Bui
Heather Mack case was a red for Oak Park o cer
Freelain writes book on child-to-parent violence
By JESSICA MACKINNON Contributing Reporter
Rasul Freelain, a retired Oak Park police officer, devoted much of his career to working with dysfunctional families and troubled youth. But the case that still haunts him is the brutal murder of Oak Park resident Sheila von Wiese-Mack 12 years ago at the hands of her daughter Heather and an accomplice.
The case, which made international headlines, was often dubbed the Bali “Suitcase Murder,” after von WeiseMack’s bludgeoned body was found in a suitcase outside a luxury resort in Bali. Freelain has written a first-hand account, When Lambs Become Wolves, detailing his experience with the family and the escalating violence inside their deceptively extravagant home.
“I wanted to offer a body-cam perspective of what it was like working with Sheila and Heather for the three years leading up to Sheila’s murder. I wrote the book because so much media attention was on Heather and I felt like Sheila’s voice was stolen from her. I wanted to speak for Sheila since she can’t speak for herself,” Freelain said.
Before joining the Oak Park police department in 2002, Freelain, a product of Chicago’s Hyde Park neighborhood, served as an English teacher at Proviso West High School and a teacher at a Park Ridge facility for young people with serious mental health issues, some of whom were quite aggressive.
“I feel like life has put me on a path to helping struggling young people. It’s my calling. I’ve always been comfortable with difficult young people that others may have reservations about.” Freelain said.
Freelain’s early years with the Oak Park police were spent as a school resource officer at Percy Julian Middle School and Oak Park and River Forest High School, where he often encountered troubled youth and their families.
But nothing prepared him for the tur moil of the Mack family. Freelain, who became a detective in 2007, first met Sheila in November 2010 when he was investigating her alle gation that Heather had stolen her credit card and used it for numerous purchases at Chicago’s Water Tower Place.
“I immediately sensed a red flag and realized that Heather had a lot of weight in their relationship,” Freelain said.
He next met with Sheila in February 2011 when she came to the police station with a cast on her ar m. She reported that Heather had shoved her to the floor, causing a broken arm. The incident confir med Freelain’s previous misgivings about Heather and led him to believe that Sheila was not safe in the home.
“When I told Sheila that, under Illinois law, Heather
had to be ar rested for physical violenc angry and stormed out of the station. I thought I would never see her again but she was back the next da Heather attacked her again. Heather was ar the first time that day,” Freelain said.
Over the next couple of years, Oak Pa responded to dozens of calls from Sheila re er’s continued abuse. According to Freelain, the police department was trying to balance ef Sheila’s dire situation with getting Heather the resources she needed as an increasingly disturbed child.
In January 2013, in a meeting that chilled Freelain, Sheila expressed her fear that Heather was going to kill her. A little more than a year later, on Aug. 12, 2014, she was dead.
Freelain learned of the murder while he was on vacation. Although he was not surprised, he was shocked to learn that Heather’s accomplice was Tommy Schaefer, an OPRF grad who Freelain knew and of whom he had had a positive impression.
“I knew this was going to happen and still I couldn’t stop it. Heather was one of the most skilled young manipulators I had ever met as a police officer. Sheila was an imperfect parent but she was determined to save her daughter at all costs,” Freelain said.
After serving seven years in a prison in Bali, Heather returned to the U.S. and was sentenced in 2024 to 26 years in a U.S. federal prison. Schaefer was released from a Balinese prison earlier this year. He was returned to the U.S. and faces charges in January 2027.
While Freelain was dealing with sor row and guilt regarding the Mack case, he also was involved in a long, protracted legal battle with the Village of Oak Park following his re port of sexual harassment by a female sergeant and claims of retaliation by the department. The case was resolved in 2021 with a monetary settlement and Freelain’s reinstatement to his post. He was promoted to sergeant before retiring in 2022 with a full pension.
Freelain book signing
Freelain will discuss and sign his book at The Book Loft Oak Park on June 27 and at Bar nes & Noble on July 5.
Rasul Freelain with his book, ‘When Lambs Become Wolves,’ at the Oak Park Public Library
“We all have challenges, and I felt like I faced mine with courage and humility. I’m grateful for the outcome of my situation with the department. I had a great career with the OPPD and I worked with some really good officers and supervisors in Oak Park,” Freelain said.
One of the best was Det. Allan Reddins, with whom Freelain worked for several years. Reddins was tragically murdered in the line of duty on Nov. 29, 2024. Freelain was dismayed to learn that the alleged perpetrator had a history of abusing family member s. The connection with the domestic violence leading to Sheila von Weise-Mack’s murder was sobering.
While writing his book, Freelain connected with professionals dealing with child-to-parent violence and abuse (CPVA) and learned that the issue was much more prevalent than he had thought. He asserts that the issue is one of the country’s most under reported crimes, given victims’ feelings of shame and isolation and a system unprepared to deal with it.
Freelain advises that in 2024, Illinois updated language in the Illinois Domestic Violence Act to recognize youthinitiated domestic abuse. In addition, police now have an Adolescent Domestic Battery Typology tool to evaluate youth who batter family members and to recommend appropriate responses.
Informed by his years investigating the Mack case as well as his extensive research for his book, Freelain now trains police and social workers on de-escalation techniques and crisis response through the Illinois Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) Training Unit.
He remains committed to seeking justice and change, even if it’s too late for Sheila von Wiess-Mack.
TODD BANNOR
Vehicle crash into Suburban Liquors results in DUI arrest
Driver arrested a er early Sunday morning crash
By EMMA BRADFORD Intern Reporter
Forest Park Police Department units were dispatched to a liquor store at 7612 Madison St. for a burglar alarm Sunday morning. While en route, officials received a second call from a witness who said they observed a car crash into that same building, and the driver had started to walk away from the crash scene heading west on Madison Street.
When officers arrived at Suburban Liquors, they observed a vehicle that had struck the front of the building, causing severe damage to both the building and the vehicle. Extensive damage to the vehicle caused the airbags to deploy, rendering it disabled
The man matching the description of the individual who fled the crash scene was quickly located and detained in handcuffs. Officers detected a strong odor of alcohol emitting from the individual, while also observing he had
bloodshot, glassy eyes and was unsteady on his feet.
The 30-year-old man arrested in the case is from Chicago
When transported the suspect back to the scene, the witness of the incident positively identified the individual. Officers detained him as the man who fled the crash, and he was put into custody. Officers searched the vehicle and were only able to find an insurance card that expired more than a year prior.
Due to prior observations, officers asked the individual to perform a standardized field sobriety test, which he failed. Later, officers asked the individual to provide a breath sample; he complied and was found to have a blood alcohol concentration of .152.
The individual was cited for a DUI, processed on the charge of one count of Felony Criminal Damage to Property and later released from the station after signing his Non-Discretionary Pretrial Release Conditions bond slip. Emma Bradford is an intern for NEWSWELL CHICAGO through Report for America’s Local News Internship Program.
OUR QUIETEST NEIGHB OR S
Chemist, famed for isolating elements, also helped the police
Marc Delafontaine moved to Chicago from Switzerland
How many of the elements on the periodic table can you name? If you can get through the first 70, you’ll have listed an element that was discovered by one of our quietest neighbors buried in Forest Home Cemetery.
For over 2,500 years, scientists, chemists, philosophers, and naturalists have been interested in identifying the very basic blocks of the natural world. In 1789, Antoine Lavoisier defined an element as a substance whose smallest units cannot be broken down into a simpler substance. The periodic table, as we now know it, was developed in 1869 when Dmitri Mendeleev put together a chart of the then 63 known elements, organized by atomic weight and characteristics. Because Mendeleev understood that not all the elements had been discovered, he left blanks for elements he knew would one day be identified. One of those blanks between 66 and 68 waited years for someone to find it.
Scientists employed whatever means they had at hand to discover elements. All manner of techniques were used to break down materials to their very basic parts.
Marc Delafontaine, born in Switzerland, established his reputation as a pioneer in optical spectroscopy. In 1864, he was able to settle a dispute among scientists, definitively proving that what was once thought to be a single element was, in fact, three rare earth elements – yttrium, terbium and erbium. (He even corrected the misnaming of the elements which had been based on their colors.)
Delafontaine came to the U.S. in 1870, settling in Chicago where he was employed as a high school chemistry teacher, a professor at a women’s colle ge, and professor of toxicological chemistry at the Chicago Medical Colle ge, where he helped improve the safety of chloroform and ether.
As a chemical analyst, his work had applications in manufacturing. Even the Chicago Police availed themselves of his services. In 1882, he testified in court about how best to identify “bogus butter” (some was thought to be lard.) In 1886, he was called on to assess a package of buckwheat flour laced with strychnine that had been sent to meat packing titan Phil Armor and in 1887, Delafontaine was part of a team of specialists tasked with studying the liver of a young murder victim. He also served his community- in 1875 when he was on a Citizen’s Association committee to assess “smoke nuisance” in industrial cities.
AMY BINNS-CALVE Y
But his shining moment came in 1878, when he, working along with Jacques-Louis Soret, made a discovery as they were examining what they were calling “Element X.” Using a spectrog raph, they noticed odd emissions and realized they had found a previously unknown element. As happens sometimes, another chemist, Per Teodor Cleve, identified the same element a year later using chemical separation. (Cleve was given the honor of naming the new element Holmia, based on the Latin name of Cleve’s hometown of Stockholm.) But it was Delafontaine’s contribution, using optical spectroscopy, that definitively proved that what they had identified was indeed an element.
soft and malleable, silvery. You most likely won’t find it in its native form because it for ms a coating when exposed to air. (Although in temperate and dry air it is stable and resistant to corrosion.) It reacts with water and bur ns in the air when heated. It’s as rare as tungsten. It is used for the pole pieces of magnets because it has the highest magnetic properties of any element. It’s also used as a burnable poison in nuclear reactors (it absorbs neutrons to lower the reactivity of the fuel used in reactors).
Sketch of Marc Delafontaine
Delefontaine must have been a very curious individual. In 1874, he used a spectroscope to analyze the spectra of different kinds of lightning. He was known for using the radioactive rareearth mineral samarskite to look for new chemical elements. In 1878, he announced the discovery of a new metal, “philippium” which turned out to be a mixture of the rare earth elements yttrium and terbium. The announcement of this discovery was delayed when his laboratory bur nt down during the Chicago fire of 1871. He also claimed to have isolated the element “decipium” but that also turned out to be a mixture of samarium and other elements.
level of their vinegar was inferior to that of a rival company, Higgins & Company. Reportedly, 50,000 students and 1,200 teachers were willing to pitch in money to cover any court costs.
In 1890, he was quoted in the Liberty Tribune on the topic of food adulteration. He said that vinegar in the east is “somewhat adulterated” while “here in the west, it is generally very pure…and too cheap for adulteration to pay.” He also said that baking powder (made from cream of tartar and bi-carbonate soda) was often adulterated during the manufacturing process. He suggested that housekeepers test their cream of tartar by adding a few drops of ammonia to a solution of tartar and water. If the mixture is clear or just a little cloudy, the tartar is pure, but if a sediment forms, it should not be used.
Delafontaine had a wife and seven children, but little else is known about his personal life, including the cause of his death in 1911.
Holmia’s number on the Periodic Table is 67. Its symbol is Ho and its atomic weight is 164.930. It is the 11th member of the lanthanide series. It’s a rare-ear th element –
Delafontaine – who was described as “the best liked tutor in all Chicago” – was sometimes asked by companies to assess the chemical properties of their products so they could use his name as an endorsement in advertising. In 1885, he was sued for libel by a vinegar company, Schuyler & Hadduck, because he said the acidic
Although he spent his life labeling elements, his grave is unmarked -- there is no headstone. He has now returned to the elements.
References: Finda grave, American Society for Biochemistry, Biddeford-Saco Journal, Wisconsin State Journal, The Daily Gazette for Middlesbrough, Stockton and District, Rockford Dai ly Gazette, The Times Union, Chica go Tribune, Altoona Tribune
Safety upgrades OK’d for two Lake St. intersections in RF
Work at William and at Jackson should start this week
By ROBERT J. LIFKA Contributing Reporter
A project to improve pedestrian safety at two Lake Street intersections in River Forest is expected to begin this week following village board action June 22. But similar work on two other intersections will not happen until later this year.
The five trustees present voted unanimously June 22 to approve a contract with Acura Inc. ofBensenville for traffic calming improvements at intersections at William Street and Jackson Avenue. Trustee Erika Bachner did not attend. The cost is $242,112. Adding a 10 percent contingency of$24,111 makes a not-to-exceed total of $266,323.
Jack Bielak, director of public works and engineering, said trustees are expected to consider a contract for similar improvements at intersections at Franklin Avenue and Edgewood Place “toward the end or
summer or early f all.”
He said improvements at Franklin and Edgewood will be partially funded by an Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) Safe Routes to School grant of $179,828 and addressing the additional requirements with the grant “will take more time.”
Total cost ofthe project is estimated at $550,000.
Village officials said the motivation for the upgrades is improving pedestrian safety, citing resident input at community meetings, including the village board and at the Casual Conversations series with village of ficials.
The project includes curb extensions, also called bump outs; a Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacon (RRFB); and median refuge islands. The project also includes drainage improvements, sidewalks, Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) ramps, pavement markings and final restoration.
Village Administrator Matt Walsh said the grant funds are specifically for the bump out at Edgewood and the RRFB at Franklin. Refuge islands will be at William and at Jackson.
In a separate 5-0 vote, trustees approved a resolution authorizing execution of a joint funding ag reement with IDOT for the project. The village’s application for the grant was supported by letters from District 90 and St. Luke’s Catholic Parish.
“These upgrades are a great start, but staf f is exploring additional ways to supplement these upgrades to make the crossings even safer for residents,” Walsh said.
The project has been in the works for more than a year.
In a memo to Walsh, Bielak wrote that Lake Street is under IDOT jurisdiction from Harlem Avenue going west through the Village of Bloomingdale where it turns into U.S. 20. Lake Street east of Harlem Avenue is owned by Oak Park and the City of Chicago for their respective segments.
Lake Street has a functional classification ofMinor Arterial and in 2023 had an annual average daily traffic figure of 9,700 vehicles. Lake Street has existing curb extensions that were built in 2010 at Keystone, Forest, Park, Franklin and Ashland avenues.
Jackson and William are both situated along the commercial corridor of Lake.
The intersection at Jackson experiences high pedestrian traffic due to the nearby Jewel-Osco grocery store and a Pace bus stop. Several pedestrian-related accidents have been documented at this location over the past five years.
The William intersection serves West Suburban Hospital’s River Forest campus which is currently closed. It is adjacent to a large residential complex and multi-family housing on the north side of Lake and the eastern corner of William. This intersection has also seen a notable number of recorded accidents Cognitive decline can steal the past, but it doesn’t have to steal the future. Pioneered to curb the effects of cognitive decline, Circle of Friends® is a unique, evidence-based program for building brain fitness. It was developed by Belmont Village in collaboration with the nation’s top universities and healthcare institutions — and it works. Residents enjoy a rich, therapeutic program of physical and mental activities designed to maintain brain function and build self-esteem.
FERRARA A new landlord
By JESSICA MORDACQ Staff Reporter
Ferrara Candy Company is aiming to have a new landlord in Forest Park.
According to a real estate listing on LoopNet, Ferrara Candy Company looks to lease back the manufacturing facility, offices and retail store at 7301 Harrison St. Ferrara Candy Company said the current owners of the property are in the process of selling it, but its lease will remain in place through at least 2031, re gardless of who owns the property.
“Any sale of the property will not impact our manufacturing operations in Forest Park,” the candy company told the Review. The factory is nearly 258,000 square feet and “basically grew around their operation,” said Steve Glinke, head of the village’s building department. “The way it’s laid out was always intended to support Ferrara Pan. It’s not one building, it’s multiple additions.”
The candy company started in Chicago’s Little Italy neighborhood in 1908, when Salvatore Ferrara started making candy coated almonds in his bakery. When high demand for candy caused the company to outg row their space, the factory moved to Forest Park in 1959.
In 2012, Ferrara Pan became Ferrara Candy Company after the family-owned business merged with Catterton Par tners. By 2018, the Ferrara family sold its remaining interest in the company.
e Fer
PARK DISTRIC T
Feeling
le out
from page 1
opment, which are required for the park district to receive a $600,000 OSLAD grant from the state of Illinois.
“All facilities assisted with OSLAD monies must conform to standards outlined by the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990,” according to the OSLAD 2026 manual.
Built in the early 2000s and updated in 2013, the park’s soccer fields, playground, and surrounding areas began to show wear and tear greater than that of any of the park district’s pocket parks because of how often locals frequent the facilities.
Contention between some residents and the park district’s board over this renovation project started back in December 2025 when parents of kids in the Forest Park Youth Soccer Association expressed concern about not being able to engage more in the process.
Tensions elevated days after a February meeting when the park district raised the youth soccer group’s rental fee for the turf field from $4 an hour to $25 an hour for the
upcoming spring season.
“There is a concern about how the Fo Park soccer league has been handled this last season,” Forest Park resident Elizabeth Frederick said at a June 18 park trict board meeting.
Frederick and others who made public comments said they are feeling unheard.
At that meeting, the only updates that were provided on the project were operational: the district is slightly over budg and there is a hold-up on its schedule caused by concern about whether or not they need a sign of f on the plans from the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago (MWRD).
“[It] is a huge significant impact on our schedule, but we are waiting to get that in writing, because MWRD has a tendency to do drive bys, and they will stop your project,” said Jackie Iovinelli, park district executive director, of the district being told they do not need to include MWRD in planning.
Once the park district gets that info mation in writing, Iovinelli said, the district will have a better idea of where the schedule is at. Iovinelli hopes to have the MWRD confirmation at a design meeting this week.
There are no answers on getting a basketball court; however, Iovinelli assured
JESSICA MOR DACQ
Master plan to the park district soccer eld and for areas surrounding the main playground.
A
meeting attendees that they have had discussions.
She also wanted residents to know that she is available to answer any questions about the renovations and the parks in general.
“As I’ve said in other meetings, when it comes to the day-today operations, feel free to reach out to me,” Iovinelli said. “I have time to take calls. I’ve taken several calls and had some great discussions with residents that have been concerned.”
During the commissioners’ reports, Board Commissioner Betty Alzamora expressed her concern over the board not bringing this up
as an agenda item and she was the only commissioner to share the same worries residents are feeling.
“As the daughter of a former professional footballer … soccer means the world to so many of us here, and I do think we need to continue to have this conversation to continue to nd ways to make it accessible.”
BET TY ALZ A MOR A Commissioner
“I am disappointed with fee increases being levied on people, in particular, in this month, where the beautiful game is being played in the United States,” Alzamora said refer ring to the World Cup. “As the daughter of a for mer professional footballer … soccer means the world to so many of us here, and I do think we need to continue to have this conversation to continue to find ways to make it accessible.”
Emma Bradford is an intern for NEWSWELL CHICAGO through Report for America’s Local News Internship Program.
TODD BANNOR
soccer game on the turf eld at the Park District of Forest Park.
PROFESSIONAL SERVICES
CRIME Man’s license plate taken from his vehicle while at home
By EMMA BRADFORD Intern Reporter
The victim stated that on June 12, his rear license plate was stolen from his vehicle while he was parked in front of the Roos Recreation Center on Harrison Street, between 9:30 a.m. and 10 a.m. The victim said he was working out there, and when he returned, he discovered his license plate was missing. After officers took down the information, the missing plate was detected by a License Plate Reader at approximately 3:45 a.m., traveling westbound on I-290. With the added infor mation that the license plate was found in the morning, officers thought it was clear the license plate was not taken during the time it was believed, but more likely when the vehicle was parked at his own residence.
then traveled east on Harvard Street. The officer briefly lost sight of the vehicle, but as they pulled onto 1st Avenue, the officer observed the vehicle approaching Interstate 290.
The officer was able to catch up to the vehicle on I290. But when the officer pulled directly behind the listed vehicle with their emergency lights and sirens activated, the vehicle was on the right shoulder and was passing heavy traffic when they entered the lanes and began weaving in and out of traffic. As the vehicle passed Harlem Avenue, the officer extinguished the emergency equipment after being terminated by the sergeant.
Aggravated eeing/Attempting to elude peace o cer
While conducting stationary radar in the parking lot of 8601 Roosevelt Road on June 14, an officer observed a vehicle traveling westbound on Roosevelt approaching them. The officer used their handheld LiDAR and clocked the listed vehicle at a top speed of 57 mph in a posted 35 mph zone. The officer observed the vehicle pass their fully marked patrol vehicle in the right lane and immediately pulled out in front of the fully marked patrol vehicle. The listed vehicle came to a stop at the red light at Roosevelt Road and 1st Avenue. When the traffic light turned green, the officer activated their emergency equipment and pulled over the vehicle at Roosevelt and 2nd Avenue. As the officer exited their patrol vehicle and began to approach the vehicle ahead, it quickly accelerated and fled the traffic stop. The officer then re-entered their patrol vehicle and attempted to catch up to the listed vehicle. With their emergency equipment activated, the officer observed the listed vehicle travel northbound and disregard the stop sign at Fillmore Street and at Harvard Street. The vehicle
The vehicle entered the left shoulder and passed an Illinois State Trooper who was in traffic. The officer continued to follow the vehicle with their emergency equipment of f, along with the Illinois State Police (ISP). With the emergency equipment of f, the vehicle continued to drive recklessly, and due to the heavy traffic, the officer had slowed down and let state police pass to continue following the vehicle. A short time later, the vehicle was located by the state police and Chicago units at the rear of the re gistered address.
However, the vehicle was fenced in and unable to be towed at the time. The vehicle was entered into LEADS as a Felony Vehicle/Agg Flee & Elude and is wanted by the Forest Park Police Department.
These items were obtained from Forest Park Police Department reports dated June 12 - 18 and represent a portion of the incidents to which police responded. Anyone named in these reports has only been charged with a crime and cases have not yet been adjudicated. We report the race of a suspect only when a serious crime has been committed, the suspect is still at large, and police have provided us with a detailed physical description of the suspect as they seek the public’s help in making an arrest
Emma Bradford is an intern for NEWSWELL CHICAGO through Report for America’s Local News Internship Program.
Lucky Duck Claw House opens
By RISÉ SANDERS-WEIR Eats Reporter
A “clawcade” has taken over 1100 Lake St. in Oak Park. This new concept comes from the mind that brought us Poke Burrito and a previous concept called Sweet Dim Sum in the same space that is now Lucky Duck Claw House.
Walk in the door and you are greeted with bright colors, flashing lights when prizes are won, and a menu that includes a variety of appetizers, rice bowls, onigiri rice balls, mochi donuts, smoothies, teas and an array of candies.
Owner Jimmy Chen decided to join the taste of Japanese street foods, similar to the menu at Sweet Dim Sum, with an arcade experience.
“The idea is built around the feeling of winning,” Chen said. “Instead of being just a restaurant or just an arcade, we focus on creating memories and interaction between friends, couples and families. At the same time that people can enjoy the food, they can also have fun with the claw machines.”
Once you win the plush toy prizes, you can either keep them or trade them for food. A plushie conversion chart is provided on the menu board.
Chen, who created and owns Umi Sushi by Weight in downtown Chicago and 10 Poke Bur rito locations, is a serial entrepreneur. He saw an opportunity in the marketplace.
“People in Oak Park, kids and family, they need a fun spot,” he said. “It took us a little while to put everything together selecting machines, gifts and all other things. Because this is something new that we never done before we’re gonna face some glitch.”
One week after their official ribbon cutting, I took three children from my neighborhood to try their luck. Tokens to play the claw games (like what you expect to play at a state fair midway) are $1 apiece. With three kids in tow, I bought $40 worth of tokens.
For many of those tries the players successfully got the claw to pick up a plush toy and move it towards the prize-winning chute, but none made it all the way there. Plushies fell over and over. One of our younger gamers was audibly, justifiably frustrated.
We bought another $20 in tokens and the same thing happened. No one won anything.
At this point an employee came over with a pocket full of tokens. With some guidance, Devyn W. played one machine seven times as the claw picked up a small plush raccoon holding a rose, but it never made it to the chute. The employee then opened the glass case and positioned the plushie just so. She said that the weight would be more evenly distributed in an upright position. She was right and the next time, bam,
the plushie made it to the chute and into Devyn’s waiting hands.
“I think it’s a very cute place and the workers are super nice here,” Devyn W. said. This was her second trip and the second time a worker had to help her before she won anything. “The stuffed animals are really cute. It’s frustrating when you don’t win. But when you do win, it’s a really good feeling.”
The employee helped the other two girls win prizes as well. We were thankful for the help. But to understand whether this was typical game play, I reached out to the owner.
“I’m glad to hear that all three children ultimately won plushies and that our team member took the time to assist them,” Chen said. “While claw machines are intended to be challenging and some prizes naturally require multiple attempts depending on positioning, we never want guests to feel discouraged or believe they do not have a fair opportunity to win.”
He also said that with a new venture, they are still ironing out all the bugs and procedures. My feedback prompted him to review the state of play
“I immediately reached out to
our cl aw machine manufacturer and technical support team to perform a diagnostic review of the machines,” he said. “We want to ensure that every machine is operating properly and delivering the experience we expect for our guests. As a new business, we are continuously evaluating and improving our operations. Our staf f re gularly monitor the arcade floor and often provide tips, assistance, or prize adjustments when younger guests are struggling. We believe great customer service is an important part of the experience, and we want every family to leave with positive memories.”
Of the whole experience, Lola C. said, “It was fun. It was challenging and challenging can be fun.”
Once the restaurant/clawcade concept is ironed out, Chen has bigger plans.
“If things goes well, then we’re going to launch multiple locations,” he said. “We are excited to start another journey from Oak Park then Chicagoland.”
Sink your claws in:
1100 Lake St., Oak Park
luckyduck-usa.com
Hours: Ever yday 11 a.m. – 8 p.m.
Ribbon cutting with ow ner Jimmy Chen, in yellow vest
RISÉ SANDERS-WEIR
Lola K., Devyn W. and Lola C. try out Lucky Duck
LETTERS TO THE ED I TOR
Pay Mar ty no mind, darlings
I was googling Pride events to take my children to when I came across last week’s letter to the editor about the Forest Park Pride Festival and had to respond. For someone who didn’t attend this event that was meant for families and children, I find it odd and unsettling that the individual who penned this letter is so fixated on a drag show where performers were tipped — as is customary at drag shows and something one would know if they ever attended a show — and found something nefarious in how the children at the event (that was, again, designed for them) interacted with the drag performers.
As a parent of a young child, I question the mindset and the disturbing nature of the writer’s thoughts when it comes to children as I don’t know of any adult who would conjure up the image of something deviant or immoral after seeing a photo from this Pride event.
P.S. And for any queens or queers w ho were offended by Marty’s little note, just remember what the “P” in Marsha P. Johnson stands for: Pay it no mind, darlings.
Brooke Morris-Chott
Letter to editor crosses a line
In the June 17 issue, a letter to the editor titled, “Pride Fest crosses a line” implies a nefarious interaction between a drag queen and a child based entirely on a photo run in this newspaper of an event that was taking place in public and attended by all kinds of people, including parents, children, and public officials. Additional photos of the same event, available on the website, illustrate a colorful, fun time being enjoyed by this large and varied group of people.
It is fairly clear even from the single photo in the newspaper that the money in question was being collected for some sort of charitable purpose. This is very common at Pride. I am baffled by what Marty Tellalian could be imagining is going on there, but the fact that their mind went immediately to something so inappropriate they had to write the newspaper tells me more about them than it does about Pride
I’m also curious that the newspaper itself did not clarify in a note what the money was being collected for. It feels irresponsible in the current climate to allow one person’s hysterical overreaction to a photo to stand as an unchallenged accusation against the local Pride event.
Jennifer Ford
OPINION
Replacement religion, part 1
Are Madison Street banners examples of replacement religion?
When, in 2022, I first saw the 70 rainbow banners lining Madison Street, I was impressed. Aesthetically they created a visual feast. Ideologically they affir med my values. Some of my best friends, as they say, and extended family members are LGBTQ.
This year Juneteenth flag banners have joined the mix. Again, some of my best friends …
On the political spectrum I tend to lean center left, so what follows is basically selfcriticism.
HOLMES
The banners seem to fit right in with our celebration of the Fourth of July. This year, however, those banners have become a source of worry for me, and it will take two weeks’ worth of columns to explain why.
This week I’ll make the argument that we progressives are mistaken when we contend that our views are based on facts and reason and not on beliefs, and next week I will make the case that our village government, as it has in the past, should stay out of the business of promoting replacement religion.
Political ideology, the new religion
We all learned about the separation of church and state in civics class, and most of us hold as self-evident the “truth” that the state should not support the establishment of religion.
AI, however, accurately summarizes what many commenters are observing and that I myself am seeing as I interact with my neighbors about political ideolo gy these days
The shift of politics into a modern religion — often called a replacement religion — is a widely observed cultural phenomenon. As traditional religious participation has declined, many people have transferred their deepest devotion, moral certitude, and sense of community to political activism.
That’s why I worry about the banners. The village of Forest Park is helping pay for the purchase and installation of the banners.
“The village of Forest Park and its local departments (such as District 91 schools) officially co-host and provide funding and resources to support the festivities [of Pride Fest] and street displays.” (Instagram, exploreforestpark)
“The 17th Annual Juneteenth Family Pool Party in Forest Park is funded and supported by a partnership
between the village of Forest Park and several community sponsors.” (Facebook, Village of Forest Park)
And in so doing, I wonder, is it violating the principal of the “separation of state and ‘replacement religion’”?
Commentators point out the ways in which political ideology has become replacement religion.
Moral Worldviews: Adherents divide the world into “good” and “evil,” creating a strict sense of moral superiority and identifying political opponents as “sinners” or heretics rather than fellow citizens.
The Rituals of Belonging: Rallies, protests, and conventions serve functions similar to tent revivals or denominational meetings. Campaign speeches inspire ecstatic feelings, and donating to candidates acts as a form of tithing Promise of Salvation: While traditional religion promises spiritual salvation, political movements often promise societal salvation through policy, positioning candidates, or ideological platfor ms as the ultimate fix for deep-seated human problems
Replacement religion on the left
Johnathan Haidt argues that “Leftism is the new fundamentalist religion. … Specific progressive movements mirror fundamentalist religions by enforcing rigid moral dogmas and ideological purity.” He contends that certain factions on the left have turned political beliefs into sacred, non-debatable values
This from an online site called United: “Unhinged election outcry reveals failed promise of secular salvation Nov 24, 2024 — They believe the right government policies will save us and solve all our problems. This wager leaves no room for dissent.”
Coffee that has been decaffeinated is still coffee, and ideology that has been “de-godded” can still be replacement religion.
Barack Obama, in his post-mortem regarding the 2024 election concluded that one reason the Democrats lost was their over-emphasis on “ideological purity.”
Replacement religion on the right
Messianic and Chosen Status: Many followers [mostly MAGA hardliners] frame Trump not just as a politician, but as a divinely appointed figure. (BBC)
Opposition to woke replacement religion: “To me,
A LOOK BACK IN TIME
Holding courts
In 1976 the newly surfaced area behind the Forest Park Community Center was open for tennis and basketball. Mark Hodges, tennis and basketball instructor, oversaw both sports throughout the week. Tennis lessons were available during the daytime for beginners and advanced for $5. The basketball court was free and open on different days for boys/men and girls/women. Teen boys were able to play Wednesday nights. The two courts were open for general use most days of the week.
Photo 1: Kevin O’Donoghue, instructor Mark Hodges, Keith Brogdon, and Jim Clark prepare to play basketball on the courts behind the Forest Park Communit y Center in 1976.
Photo 2: Tennis instructor Mark Hodges shows the newly sur faced tennis cour ts behind the Forest Park Communit y Center in 1976.
From TOM HOLMES on pa ge 16
‘woke’ has become a negative term. It seems less about real fairness and more about forcing extreme ideas, silencing opposing opinions, and dividing people. It feels like it’s gone from awareness to intolerance.” (Hannah, MAGA Hardliner, Age 41 • White woman • Talladega, Alabama, from a More in Common poll conducted 2025-2026)
The “MAGA” Gospel: The Make America Great Again platform replaces traditional theological doctrines with a nationalist focus. Trump events and rallies are described as functioning like church services or revivals, providing followers with a transcendent sense of belonging and “us versus them” salvation. (vox.com)
Reverence and Fealty: The movement demands a level of personal devotion, loyalty, and infallibility more characteristic of a religious deity than a secular politician. (New York Times)
How replacement religion works
In a site called Conspicuous Cognition, Dan Williams wrote, “The political beliefs we develop are highly fallible. At best, the mental pictures that make up our political outlook are selective, simplistic, and distorted representations of a more complex, ambiguous, and disagreeable reality.”
Follow Pastor Walter Mitty’s spiritual adventures on Tom’s substack, https://tomholmes10. substack.com.
General Manager Max Reinsdorf Sta Repor ter Jessica Mordacq News Intern Emma Bradford
Senior Audience Manager Stacy Coleman
Contributing Editor Donna Greene
Contributing Reporters
Tom Holmes, Robert J. Li a Columnists
Alan Brouilette, Tom Holmes
Design/Production Manager Andrew Mead
Editorial & Digital Design Lead Javier Govea
Design and Production Associate De Sergio Villalona Designer Susan McKelvey
Senior Media Strategist Lourdes Nicholls
Marketing & Adver tising Associate Emma Cullnan
Legal Notices
Mary Ellen Nelligan
Circulation Manager Jill Wagner
Operations Associate Susan Liss Babin
Social Media and Digital Coordinator Maribel Barrera
Forest Park Review is published weekly by NEWSWELL Chicago. Periodicals postage paid at Oak Park, IL (USPS No 0205-160). Forest Park Review NEWSWELL Chicago is located at 1011 Lake Street St 307, Oak Park IL 60301. The newspaper is available at newsstands for $1. Annual subscription rate in Cook County is $48 and $82 outside of
Property Index No. 15-09-321119-0000
The real estate is improved with a single family residence.
com for a 7 day status report of pending sales.
HEAVNER, BEYERS & MIHLAR, LLC
PUBLIC NOTICES
PUBLIC NOTICE
Notice is hereby given, pursuant to “An Act in relation to the use of an Assumed Business Name in the conduct or transaction of Business in the State,” as amended, that a certification was registered by the undersigned with the County Clerk of Cook County. Registration Number: M26001752 on June 17, 2026 Under the Assumed Business Name of GTG NWI with the business located at: 141 MARSHALL AVE, BELLWOOD, IL 60104, 17315 UNIVERSITY AVE, SOUTH HOLLAND, IL 60473. The true and real full name(s) and residence address of the owner(s)/partner(s) are: GEORGE OUTLAW 17315 UNIVERSITY AVE SOUTH HOLLAND, IL 60473, USA MELVINA JOHNSON 141 MARSHALL AVE BELLWOOD, IL 60104, USA
Published in Forest Park Review
June 24, July 1, 8, 2026
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on 20 July 2026, at 7:00 P.M. in the Council Chambers of the Village Hall, 517 Desplaines Avenue, Forest Park, Illinois, the Planning and Zoning Commission will conduct a public hearing to consider a request for relief to Title 9 Section 9-2-3(H) of the Forest Park Zoning code to construct an accessory structure in a R-1 zoned district not to exceed 24’ in height at the following subject location; LOT 15, IN BLOCK 2, IN CARNEY’S ADDITIONTO HARLEM, A SUBDIVISION OF THE NORTHEAST ¼ OF THE NORTHEAST ¼ OF SECTION 13, TOWNSHIP 39 NORTH, RANGE 12, EAST OF THE THIRD PRINCIPAL MERIDIAN, IN COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS.
Commonly known as 444 Marengo Ave. Forest Park, IL PIN 15-13-206-017-0000
The applicant is Matt and Pamela Jacknow.
Signed: Marsha East, Chair Planning and Zoning Commission
Published in Forest Park Review June 24, 2026
REAL ESTATE FOR SALE REAL ESTATE FOR SALE
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT - CHANCERY DIVISION
U.S. BANK TRUST NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUT SOLELY AS OWNER TRUSTEE FOR RCAF ACQUISITION TRUST
Plaintiff, -v.-
M. C. WINBUSH JR., CALMIDY K. WINBUSH-SMITH
Defendants
2024CH03976
1305 S 7TH AVE
MAYWOOD, IL 60153
NOTICE OF SALE
PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above cause on April 14, 2026, an agent for The Judicial Sales Corporation, will at 10:30 AM on July 20, 2026, at The Judicial Sales Corporation, One South Wacker, 1st Floor Suite 35R, Chicago, IL, 60606, sell at public in-person sale to the highest bidder, as set forth below, the following described real estate: Commonly known as 1305 S 7TH AVE, MAYWOOD, IL 60153
Property Index No. 15-14-126002-0000
The real estate is improved with a single family residence.
Sale terms: If sold to anyone other than the Plaintiff, 25% down of the highest bid by certified funds at the close of the sale payable to The Judicial Sales Corporation. No third party checks will be accepted. The balance, in certified funds/or wire transfer, is due within twenty-four (24) hours.
The subject property is subject to general real estate taxes, special assessments, or special taxes levied against said real estate and is offered for sale without any representation as to quality or quantity of title and without recourse to Plaintiff and in ‘’AS IS’’ condition. The sale is further subject to confirmation by the court.
Upon payment in full of the amount bid, the purchaser will receive a Certificate of Sale that will entitle the purchaser to a deed to the real estate after confirmation of the sale.
The property will NOT be open for inspection and plaintiff makes no representation as to the condition of the property. Prospective bidders are admonished to check the court file to verify all information. If this property is a condominium unit, the purchaser of the unit at the foreclosure sale, other than a mortgagee, shall pay the assessments and the legal fees required by The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/9(g)(1) and (g) (4). If this property is a condominium unit which is part of a common interest community, the purchaser of the unit at the foreclosure sale other than a mortgagee shall pay the assessments required by The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/18.5(g-1).
IF YOU ARE THE MORTGAGOR (HOMEOWNER), YOU HAVE THE RIGHT TO REMAIN IN POSSESSION FOR 30 DAYS AFTER ENTRY OF AN ORDER OF POSSESSION, IN
ACCORDANCE WITH SECTION 151701(C) OF THE ILLINOIS MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE LAW.
You will need a photo identification issued by a government agency (driver’s license, passport, etc.) in order to gain entry into our building and the foreclosure sale room in Cook County and the same identification for sales held at other county venues where The Judicial Sales Corporation conducts foreclosure sales.
For information, examine the court file, CODILIS & ASSOCIATES, P.C. Plaintiff’s Attorneys, 15W030 NORTH FRONTAGE ROAD, SUITE 100, BURR RIDGE, IL, 60527 (630) 794-9876
THE JUDICIAL SALES CORPORATION
One South Wacker Drive, 24th Floor, Chicago, IL 60606-4650 (312) 236-SALE
You can also visit The Judicial Sales Corporation at www.tjsc. com for a 7 day status report of pending sales.
CODILIS & ASSOCIATES, P.C. 15W030 NORTH FRONTAGE ROAD, SUITE 100 BURR RIDGE IL, 60527 630-794-5300
E-Mail: pleadings@il.cslegal.com
Attorney File No. 14-24-02108
Attorney ARDC No. 00468002
Attorney Code. 21762
Case Number: 2024CH03976
TJSC#: 46-954
NOTE: Pursuant to the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, you are advised that Plaintiff’s attorney is deemed to be a debt collector attempting to collect a debt and any information obtained will be used for that purpose.
Case # 2024CH03976 I3288979
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT - CHANCERY DIVISION
JPMORGAN CHASE BANK, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION
Plaintiff, -v.-
MAMIE MAY, MERS, MORTGAGE ELECTRONIC REGISTRATION SYSTEMS, INC., AS NOMINEE FOR AEGIS WHOLESALE CORPORATION, AEGIS WHOLESALE CORPORATION, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA ACTING BY AND THROUGH THE SECRETARY OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT, ILLINOIS HOUSING DEVELOPMENT
AUTHORITY
Defendants 16 CH 11376 3411 MADISON ST. BELLWOOD, IL 60104
NOTICE OF SALE
PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above cause on April 20, 2026, an agent for The Judicial Sales Corporation, will at 10:30 AM on July 21, 2026, at The Judicial Sales Corporation, One South Wacker, 1st Floor Suite 35R, Chicago, IL, 60606, sell at public in-person sale to the highest bidder, as set forth below, the following described real estate: Commonly known as 3411 MADISON ST., BELLWOOD, IL 60104
The judgment amount was $346,911.13.
Sale terms: If sold to anyone other than the Plaintiff, 25% down of the highest bid by certified funds at the close of the sale payable to The Judicial Sales Corporation. No third party checks will be accepted. The balance, in certified funds/or wire transfer, is due within twenty-four (24) hours.
The subject property is subject to general real estate taxes, special assessments, or special taxes levied against said real estate and is offered for sale without any representation as to quality or quantity of title and without recourse to Plaintiff and in ‘’AS IS’’ condition.
The sale is further subject to confirmation by the court.
Upon payment in full of the amount bid, the purchaser will receive a Certificate of Sale that will entitle the purchaser to a deed to the real estate after confirmation of the sale.
Where a sale of real estate is made to satisfy a lien prior to that of the United States, the United States shall have one year from the date of sale within which to redeem, except that with respect to a lien arising under the internal revenue laws the period shall be 120 days or the period allowable for redemption under State law, whichever is longer, and in any case in which, under the provisions of section 505 of the Housing Act of 1950, as amended (12 U.S.C. 1701k), and subsection (d) of section 3720 of title 38 of the United States Code, the right to redeem does not arise, there shall be no right of redemption.
The property will NOT be open for inspection and plaintiff makes no representation as to the condition of the property. Prospective bidders are admonished to check the court file to verify all information. If this property is a condominium unit, the purchaser of the unit at the foreclosure sale, other than a mortgagee, shall pay the assessments and the legal fees required by The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/9(g)(1) and (g) (4). If this property is a condominium unit which is part of a common interest community, the purchaser of the unit at the foreclosure sale other than a mortgagee shall pay the assessments required by The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/18.5(g-1).
IF YOU ARE THE MORTGAGOR (HOMEOWNER), YOU HAVE THE RIGHT TO REMAIN IN POSSESSION FOR 30 DAYS AFTER ENTRY OF AN ORDER OF POSSESSION, IN ACCORDANCE WITH SECTION 151701(C) OF THE ILLINOIS MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE LAW.
You will need a photo identification issued by a government agency (driver’s license, passport, etc.) in order to gain entry into our building and the foreclosure sale room in Cook County and the same identification for sales held at other county venues where The Judicial Sales Corporation conducts foreclosure sales.
For information, contact HEAVNER, BEYERS & MIHLAR, LLC Plaintiff’s Attorneys, 601 E. William St., DECATUR, IL, 62523 (217) 422-1719.
Please refer to file number 240702. THE JUDICIAL SALES CORPORATION
One South Wacker Drive, 24th Floor, Chicago, IL 60606-4650 (312) 236-SALE
You can also visit The Judicial Sales Corporation at www.tjsc.
601 E. William St. DECATUR IL, 62523 217-422-1719
Fax #: 217-422-1754
E-Mail: CookPleadings@hsbattys. com
Attorney File No. 240702
Attorney Code. 40387
Case Number: 16 CH 11376
TJSC#: 46-946
NOTE: Pursuant to the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, you are advised that Plaintiff’s attorney is deemed to be a debt collector attempting to collect a debt and any information obtained will be used for that purpose.
Case # 16 CH 11376
I3289114
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT - CHANCERY DIVISION
JPMORGAN CHASE BANK, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION
Plaintiff, -v.-
ADRIAN TAYLOR JR, SAVANNAH SAVOY HOME COUTURE L.L.C.
Defendants 25 CH 11800 2109 S 12TH AVE MAYWOOD, IL 60153
NOTICE OF SALE
PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above cause on April 21, 2026, an agent for The Judicial Sales Corporation, will at 10:30 AM on July 22, 2026, at The Judicial Sales Corporation, One South Wacker, 1st Floor Suite 35R, Chicago, IL, 60606, sell at public in-person sale to the highest bidder, as set forth below, the following described real estate: Commonly known as 2109 S 12TH AVE, MAYWOOD, IL 60153
Property Index No. 15-15-429004-0000
The real estate is improved with a single family residence.
The judgment amount was $65,291.45.
Sale terms: If sold to anyone other than the Plaintiff, 25% down of the highest bid by certified funds at the close of the sale payable to The Judicial Sales Corporation. No third party checks will be accepted. The balance, in certified funds/or wire transfer, is due within twenty-four (24) hours. The subject property is subject to general real estate taxes, special assessments, or special taxes levied against said real estate and is offered for sale without any representation as to quality or quantity of title and without recourse to Plaintiff and in ‘’AS IS’’ condition. The sale is further subject to confirmation by the court. Upon payment in full of the amount bid, the purchaser will receive a Certificate of Sale that will entitle the purchaser to a deed to the real estate after confirmation of the sale.
The property will NOT be open for inspection and plaintiff makes no representation as to the condition of the property. Prospective bidders are admonished to check the court file to verify all information. If this property is a condominium unit, the purchaser of the unit at the foreclosure sale, other than a mortgagee, shall pay the assessments and the legal fees required by The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/9(g)(1) and (g) (4). If this property is a condominium unit which is part of a common interest community, the purchaser of the unit at the foreclosure sale
other than a mortgagee shall pay the assessments required by The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/18.5(g-1).
IF YOU ARE THE MORTGAGOR (HOMEOWNER), YOU HAVE THE RIGHT TO REMAIN IN POSSESSION FOR 30 DAYS AFTER ENTRY OF AN ORDER OF POSSESSION, IN ACCORDANCE WITH SECTION 151701(C) OF THE ILLINOIS MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE LAW.
You will need a photo identification issued by a government agency (driver’s license, passport, etc.) in order to gain entry into our building and the foreclosure sale room in Cook County and the same identification for sales held at other county venues where The Judicial Sales Corporation conducts foreclosure sales.
For information, contact HEAVNER, BEYERS & MIHLAR, LLC Plaintiff’s Attorneys, 601 E. William St., DECATUR, IL, 62523 (217) 4221719. Please refer to file number 2065747.
THE JUDICIAL SALES CORPORATION One South Wacker Drive, 24th Floor, Chicago, IL 60606-4650 (312) 236-SALE
You can also visit The Judicial Sales Corporation at www.tjsc. com for a 7 day status report of pending sales.
HEAVNER, BEYERS & MIHLAR, LLC 601 E. William St. DECATUR IL, 62523 217-422-1719
NOTE: Pursuant to the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, you are advised that Plaintiff’s attorney is deemed to be a debt collector attempting to collect a debt and any information obtained will be used for that purpose.
Case # 25 CH 11800 I3289135
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT - CHANCERY DIVISION FEDERAL HOME LOAN MORTGAGE CORPORATION, AS TRUSTEE FOR THE BENEFIT OF THE FREDDIE MAC SEASONED CREDIT RISK TRANSFER TRUST, SERIES 2024-1 Plaintiff vs. UNKNOWN HEIRS OF TONY MORTON A/K/A TONY A. MORTON A/K/A TONY ANTHONY MORTON, JACQUELINE L. MORTON A/K/A JACQUELINE MORTON, AMERICAN FIRST C.U., TRUIST BANK SUCCESSOR IN INTEREST TO SUNTRUST BANK, JAMAL MORTON A/K/A JAMEL MORTON, JAZMIN MORTON, AMIR MOHABBAT AS SPECIAL REPRESENTATIVE, UNKNOWN OWNERS AND NON-RECORD CLAIMANTS, Defendant 25 CH 8659 CALENDAR 58 NOTICE OF SALE
PUBLIC NOTICE is hereby given that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure entered in the above entitled cause Intercounty Judicial Sales Corporation will on July 20, 2026, at the hour 11:00 a.m., Intercounty’s office, 120 West Madison Street, Suite 718A, Chicago, IL 60602, sell, in person, to the highest bidder for cash, the following described mortgaged real estate: P.I.N. 15-16-116-114-0000. Commonly known as 1024 PARK PLACE, BELLWOOD, IL 60104.
The real estate is: single family residence. If the subject mortgaged real estate is a common interest community unit, the purchaser of the unit other than a mortgagee shall pay the assessments required by subsection(g-1) of Section 189.5 of the Condominium Property Act. Sale terms: At sale, the bidder must have 10% (or 25% if so ordered in the Judgment of Foreclosure) down by certified funds, balance within 24 hours, by certified funds. No refunds. The property is sold AS IS subject to all liens or encumbrances. The property will NOT be open for inspection. Prospective bidders are admonished to check the circuit court case record, property tax record and the title record to verify all information before bidding. IF YOU ARE THE MORTGAGOR (HOMEOWNER), YOU HAVE THE RIGHT TO REMAIN IN POSSESSION FOR 30 DAYS AFTER THE ENTRY OF AN ORDER OF POSSESSION, IN ACCORDANCE WITH SECTION 151701(c) OF THE ILLINOIS MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE LAW. For information call Sales Department at Plaintiff’s Attorney, Law Offices of Ira T. Nevel, 175 North Franklin Street, Suite 201, Chicago, Illinois 60606. (312) 357-1125. 25-01123 INTERCOUNTY JUDICIAL SALES CORPORATION intercountyjudicialsales.com I3288697
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