Forest Park Review 091119

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Vol. 102, No. 37

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REVIEW

Resident wins New Yorker caption contest

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Forest Park approves marijuana tax

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SEPTEMBER 11, 2019

@FP_Review @ForestParkReview

Diversity within fire and police departments not so simple State mandates testing, rigid interview rules

By MARIA MAXHAM Staff Reporter

Forest Park Mayor Rory Hoskins, in recently appointing a new Police and Fire Commission, hopes to bring more di-

versity to police and fire departments in Forest Park. Both departments have been accused of failing to represent the diversity of the village within their ranks. During the recent mayoral debates, Hoskins said Forest Park has never had an African American firefighter and doesn’t have many black police officers.

The numbers support that reality. Of 36 full time police officers, Chief Tom Aftanas says the department currently has five women, one of whom is Hispanic, one Asian male lieutenant, one African American male patrol officer, and

two Hispanic male patrol officers. Out of 23 full time firefighters, Fire Chief Bob McDermott says there is one white female, one Hispanic male, and one Asian male. The rest are white males.

The hiring process for Forest Park police and fire personnel is mandated by the state. Village Administrator Tim Gillian said that Forest Park, as “a non-home rule municipality, See DIVERSITY on page 17

Three’s company As PMSA’s enrollment increases, D209 looks to replicate the school at East and West

By MICHAEL ROMAIN Staff Reporter

Ribfest wows again

ALEX ROGALS/Staff Photographer

Joah McGee, left, and Justin Scott, both from Forest Park, eat ribs together on Saturday, Sept. 7, 2019, during Forest Park’s annual Rib Fest at The Grove on Madison Street. See page 11 for more.

If all goes according to an ambitious plan laid out by administrators last week, there will not be one Proviso Math and Science Academy in Proviso Township High Schools District 209 — there will essentially be three.

In a lengthy interview on Sept. 4, D209 Supt.

Jesse Rodriguez said the district is seeking to open math and science academies at Proviso East and Proviso West that replicate PMSA’s academic curriculum while continuing to increase the student population at the selective enrollment school in Forest Park.

Rodriguez said the expansion will benefit students in the district who have the capability of excelling in PMSA’s academically rigorous See PMSA on page 13

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Forest Park Review, September 11, 2019

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Forest Park Review, September 11, 2019

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Savant of silliness cracks up The New Yorker

erry Keshner is fortunate to have a weird sense of humor. The longtime Forest Park resident loves silliness and enjoys writing “goofy stuff.”

This makes him well-equipped for the New Yorker magazine’s Cartoon Caption Contest. Each week, the magazine runs a caption-less cartoon on the last page.

Contestants submit their caption online. Readers rate the captions as “Unfunny,” “Somewhat Funny” or just plain “Funny.”

Terry’s caption in the Aug. 26 issue cracked up enough people to win First Place in the contest.

This was not Terry’s first brush with comic success. His caption in January 2010 took 2nd Place. The cartoon depicted a doctor examining a man in his office, while making shadow rabbits with his hands. Terry’s caption read: “Yes, Mr. Rabbit also needs to quit drinking.” Alcohol-related humor from a Forest Park contestant. Perfect.

This year’s winner features a cartoon showing two urban bicyclists. One man is dressed casually while the other is wearing a full suit of armor. Terry’s caption shows the knight saying: “It started as a crusade.

Now it’s just a commute.” Like most New Yorker cartoons, it’s subtle and quirky. Winning the contest is no small feat, if you consider the late Roger Ebert submitted a cap-

tion every week for years and never finished in the top three.

Terry started submitting captions 20 years ago when the contest was held only once a year. It later became a weekly feature.

They run cartoons that didn’t make the editor’s cut, but they stimulate Terry’s imagination.

He pictures himself in the situation the cartoon depicts and writes down a bunch of captions. He selects one to submit.

In the case of the knight cartoon, he knew it was a good one.

Terry has fun writing humor because there is nothing funny about his day job.

He has been a freelance reporter and editor for WBBM Radio for the past 17 years.

He covers fires, crimes and environmental issues. He also does sports updates on Chicago teams but doesn’t actually go to their games.

Terry’s voice can be heard on the radio at various times of the day and night. He constantly monitors social media, especially Twitter. He was following Mayor Lightfoot’s Twitter account when she blasted Sen. Cruz for his remarks about gun violence in Chicago. His electronic “scoop” made national news.

He is also an on-site reporter and records interviews that play on the air. He records interviews with his phone and edits them at the station. Terry enjoys digging up stories

Editorial Design Manager Claire Innes

and writing copy for news broadcasts. He also likes working out of the station’s offices, which are located near Millennium Park.

Creative writing, though, remains his first love. He likes writing fiction and has completed a number of short stories and a yet-to-be-published novel. He also writes humor pieces but points to his winning caption as his biggest success in humor writing. It also served another purpose: “As a reporter, I want to put words in people’s mouth,” he quipped. “This way I can.”

L O O K B A C K I N T I M E . . .

A L O O K B A C K I N T I M E . . .

Preparing for the XXXX new millennium Remember Bishop’s Chili, a successful Chicago restaurant opened by Mary “Ma” Bishop in the 1920’s on 18th and Damon?

Her son, George branched off and continued the family business by opening a second location to the west in Forest Park at the intersection of Roosevelt and Elgin in the 1950’s.

Joe Janouch, Vice President of Bishop’s was interviewed in 1992 and said, “I think some of our success comes from the fact that we’ve kept this a family business and we’ve stuck to one recipe all these years.”

Janouch was careful not to reveal the secret mixture that gave Bishop’s chili its spicy kick.

He only shared that the secret recipe included meat, beans, onions and spices. The chili does not include tomato paste, flour or brown sugar.

This favorite restaurant on the south end of town expanded west again in 1970’s to Westmont.

In the early 1990s, Bishop’s Chili, after 36 years in Forest Park, was demolished to make way for Walgreens, now at the corner of Roosevelt and Harlem, which fills the corner all the way to Elgin.

REVIEW Contributing Reporters Tom Holmes, John Rice, Bob Skolnik, Jackie Glosniak, Robert J. Lifka Columnists Alan Brouilette, Jill Wagner, Tom Holmes, John Rice, Senior Editor Bob Uphues Editor Maria Maxham IT Manager/Web Developer Mike Risher

JOHN RICE

A

F O R E S T PA R K

Editorial Designer Mark Moroney Ad Design Manager Andrew Mead Ad Designers Debbie Becker Staff Photographer Alex Roglas Advertising Manager Dawn Ferencak Ad Sales Marc Stopeck, Bill Wossow Inside Sales Mary Ellen Nelligan Client Engagement Natalie Johnson Circulation Manager Jill Wagner Distribution Coordinator Wakeelah Cocroft-Aldridge Front Desk Carolyn Henning, Maria Murzyn Chairman Emeritus Robert K. Downs Publisher Dan Haley Associate Publisher Dawn Ferencak Business Manager Joyce Minich

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 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: $22 per year. $38 for two years. $54 for three years.

Out of county subscriptions: $30 per year. © 2019 Wednesday Journal, Inc. F O R E S T PA R K

REVIEW Twenty years ago this month, Madison Street was undergoing major reconstruction.

Photo by Frank Pinc 1999

Share photos on Instagram using #fpreview or email alexa@oakpark.com.

All photos become property of Forest Park Review for possible future use in print or digital capacities.

@ForestParkReview

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Forest Park Review, September 11, 2019

Madison Street boutique to merge with shoe store Jayne to replace Madison Street Shoes

By MARIA MAXHAM Staff Reporter

In 2012, Madison Street Shoes opened at 7500 Madison St., the corner of Madison and Beloit Avenue in Forest Park. Owned

by Craig Cohen, it featured quality women’s shoes, and later brought in accessories and comfortable and stylish clothing as well.

The next year, Cohen opened Jayne across the street at 7423 Madison St. Now, Jayne has moved from the north side of Madison to the south side, replacing Madison Street Shoes.

The decision to close Madison Street Shoes and shift Jayne to that location makes sense, says Cohen, because Madison Street “doesn’t support two stores,” especially since they’re carrying the same brands of clothing and shoes. With five other Jayne stores in neighboring suburbs, Cohen wants to focus on the Jayne brand, named after his independent and stylish grandmother.

The decision to move into the 7500 Madison St. location instead of keeping Jayne at its previous location was because the former

has a basement, which provides storage that the other location doesn’t have. And being on the corner provides a better opportunity for sidewalk sales, says Cohen.

Cohen, who has been in the shoe business since 1997, opened Craig’s Shoes in Berwyn in 2007. When he decided to expand, he looked at Oak Park, but saw a market already brimming with shoe stores. Forest Park was an excellent choice to open a store because he was seeking a “stronger financial demographic.” Madison Street appealed to him because of its downtown atmosphere, and he wanted his new store to be close to Oak Park and River Forest, in addition to being near his Berwyn store.

By the end of October, Cohen plans to have slowly redone the interior of the store at 7500 Madison to more closely match the look and feel of the other Jayne boutiques. Although Jayne shops feature a variety of clothing brands and accessories, appealing to women of all ages, shoes will still be central to the business.

Jayne stores are, he says, “shoe driven boutiques.”

Cohen is also looking forward to seeing the Forest Park Chamber of Commerce continue supporting a vibrant downtown.

ALEX ROGALS/Staff Photographer

ON THE MOVE : Madison Street Shoes will become Jayne by the end of October.

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by Maria Gedroc On view through September 29 Reception: September 15 from 2-4 p.m.

University Band Fall Concert September 27 | 8 p.m. | Chapel

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Ferguson Gallery is located in Kretzmann Hall

Kapelle Sings for Bach Cantata Vespers September 29 | 3:45 p.m. | Grace Lutheran Church, River Forest Student Composers Recital October 3 | 11:30 a.m. | Chapel Lectures in Church Music October 20-22 | CUC Campus Music Department Information: 708-209-3060

Event details are subject to change. Unless noted, all events take place at Concordia University Chicago, 7400 Augusta St., River Forest.

Visit CUChicago.edu

Forest Park Review, September 11, 2019

5

Sweepstakes machines find way into town The Review found them in five spots, so far

By MARIA MAXHAM Staff Reporter

Video gambling machines, legal in Illinois Gaming Board (IGB) approved establishments holding liquor licenses in Illinois, were officially banned in Forest Park by resident vote on Nov. 6, 2018. But sweepstakes machines, not covered under this ban or regulated in any meaningful fashion, have been quietly popping up in and around Forest Park.

The Review first reported on one in the Citgo gas station at 7323 Randolph in October 2018. Since then, more have appeared. In addition to the machines at the Citgo, there are three at the BP on Harlem, three at R Place on Harlem, two at the Beacon Pub, and three at Healy’s West Side.

There may be more, but since businesses do not require a license of any kind to install one, it’s difficult for a town to keep track of how many exist. In Forest Park, establishments hosting sweepstakes machines – or any entertainment machines, for that matter – are supposed to purchase and display a village amusement sticker, but Forest Park Mayor Rory Hoskins said this rule is not always followed.

For years, the Illinois Gaming Board has declared that sweepstakes machines are illegal.

In their 2013 statement regarding the illegality of these machines, the agency stated that promoters of these devices exploit a “legal loophole” by “arguing that the purchase paid into the kiosks is for a coupon and not for the wagering credits.” Also, since a user can play a limited number of games for free, gambling isn’t necessitated, and the games provide an “alternate means of entry.”

Sweepstakes machines look and function a lot like video gambling machines. At the machines in the BP on Harlem Avenue in Forest Park, users can play games for free at first if they provide their name, mailing address, and date of birth. If they want to continue playing after their free credits are used up, they can put money into the machine. The games simulate slot machines, featuring cherries, lemons, sevens, and gold bars. The player can press a button to “spin” and hope the game ends on a winning combination. Once finished, users can cash out, which allows them to print a receipt to bring to the cashier. At the BP on Harlem, the receipt can be redeemed for cash.

Being able to play for free, claim sweepstakes machine manufacturers and distributors, is one of the key differences between their machines and legal gambling machines. However, the machines don’t always work this way. In fact, at the Citgo on Randolph the sign above the machines reads: “TO ENTER WITHOUT PURCHASE… (a) ask the participating retailer for free daily entry, limited to one entry per day and usable only at the premises of that participation retailer.” At this location, though, when the cashier was asked how to play, he said the user must put money into the machine to start.

When asked about playing for free, he said the user can go online and print out a coupon but had no details on how to do that. He did not provide his name and declined an interview.

R Place and Healy’s host Luxe Yard machines, which allow the player to redeem winnings for cash at the bar or coupons that can be used at the Luxe Yard Outlet website, where purchasable items range from Duck Dynasty water bottles to a couch selling for over $4,000.

Opponents of sweepstakes machines don’t like the fact that they are not regulated as

Opponents of sweepstakes

machines don’t like the fact that they are not regulated as video gambling machines are.

Photo by Maria Maxham

video gambling machines are. Businesses aren’t required to have a license for them.

And they’re not taxed either. So sweepstakes machines profit only the gaming machine owner and the business hosting the machines. Therefore, for villages that allow legal gambling machines, which Forest Park does not, these sweepstakes machines can operate without any benefit to the village or state, taking away a viable revenue stream for these towns. According to a WBEZ investigation last year, legal gambling brought in more than $1.2 billion to the state of Illinois by the end of June 2018.

Another regulation that applies to legal gambling machines and not sweepstakes machines is that the legal machines are only allowed in establishments that already have a liquor license. Sweepstakes machines, however, can be placed anywhere. In fact, on the website of a local sweepstakes machine manufacturer and distributor, Jackpot Gaming, the company makes it clear that these machines are not bound by the same laws as the IGB sanctioned machines. “Electronic

Little damage reported in nail salon fire A fire at a Madison Street nail salon, started by a neon sign falling onto an upholstered piece of furniture inside the shop, required a response from the Forest Park Fire Department on Labor Day, Sept.

2, at 2:20 p.m.

Fire Chief Bob McDermott said the building sustained no serious fire damage and nobody was hurt.

Forest Park emergency personnel responded to Grand Nails, 7620 Madison St., after someone called 911 to report a fire. Police arriving on the scene reported observing flames within the front window of

the salon, which was closed at the time.

An officer knocked on the door of the residences above to alert possible occupants. Getting no response, the officer forced open both doors to gain access, but found no one inside.

Firefighters forced open the door of the salon to extinguish the fire and broke the front windows to vent the salon, which sustained smoke damage.

A local company was called to board up the structure.

Maria Maxham

promotion kiosks have no restrictions at all,” reads the web page and lists the types of locations they can be placed, including liquor stores, bars, laundromats and convenient [sic] stores. In all caps it then states, “NO LIQUOR LICENSE REQUIRED!” Other regulations that apply to legal gambling machines that do not apply to sweepstakes machines are a limit to the number of machines an establishment can have, whether or not a background check is needed to install a machine in a business, and whether or not the machine is required to actually allow players to win. None of these regulations are in place for sweepstakes machines.

Last Thursday, Hoskins had the police inspect machines he was aware of to see if they all had the village amusement sticker.

About the issue of the machines in town, he said that village attorneys “are looking into it.”

Several Chicago area townships and villages have banned these machines, including Oak Park, Skokie, Mount Prospect, Mundelein and Huntley.

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Forest Park Review, September 11, 2019

D91 seeks mediation after fight Cavallo says priority is dialogue over punishment

By MARIA MAXHAM Staff Reporter

On Sept 6., Forest Park Middle School Principal Joseph Pisano spent most of the day meeting with students and parents to mediate a situation that unfolded Thursday after school and off school property. The precipitating event involved several middleschool students fighting at the park district.

The fight was videotaped and posted on social media. Although the video was removed from Forest Park-related Facebook groups, it sparked comments and controversy.

Louis Cavallo, District 91 superintendent, said that even though the incident happened off school property and outside school hours, mediating these types of conflicts between students is important.

“We’re a small community. What happens outside of school carries into school,” he said. Cavallo mentioned that it’s not the first time D91 school officials have facilitated dialogue between students and parents for conflicts that took place outside of school. He stressed that the mediation “was not about consequences. It’s about fixing the problem.”

One of his biggest concerns about the incident, though, was the fact that it was posted on Facebook.

“Adults need to think twice before posting videos of children,” Cavallo said. And the nature of the comments was problematic as well. “Some commenters were saying ‘lock them up’ about the children in the video.

They’re children,” he said, adding that if the kids in the video had been white, people would probably have said, “It’s just boys being boys.” Because they were African American, though, the comments were harsher.

“This is a conversation that needs to happen,” Cavallo said. “It comes down to the issue of equity and bias.”

Visit us online at www.ForestParkReview.com Need a helping of

Retooling the way the Review works

W

e were about six months into Wednesday Journal Inc. back in 1980 and the money we’d raised was running out. The check to the printer the previous week had bounced — not by much but it bounced — and now the printer wanted a certified check before he’d print the next issue.

That was a moment. And I remember thinking as a chastened 24-year-old, “This is the greatest job ever but, Dan, you don’t have a God-given right to publish this newspaper. Figure it out. Make this work.”

Back then the figuring it out was learning how to sell advertising. And we did. Lots of advertising. Lots of grassroots reporting.

Lots of connections in all the neighborhoods we came to serve.

Here we are 39 years later and it is, once again, a moment.

And while selling advertising will remain vital to us, there is a whirlwind around independent community journalism all across America that threatens its future, threatens our future as the publishers of newspapers like the Forest Park Review, which Wednesday Journal Inc. purchased more than 30 years ago.

We don’t have a God-given right to keep publishing and you don’t have a right to expect a Breaking News Update in your e-mail or a print copy in your mailbox — not if we all just sit back and think of better days.

It is time to open the hood and rebuild the engine — possibly a bad metaphor as I’ve never rebuilt an engine, hardly opened the hood but you get the point. Former Secretary of State Madeleine Albright’s metaphor might be more apt, that sometimes change is like redesigning the airplane while you’re flying it.

So that is what we are doing. Crafting a new business model that builds on our strengths, widens our base of local support beyond just advertising and opens the door to more reporters, more ways to tell our stories, more voices from the neighborhoods.

We start knowing that the work we do

every day in all seven neighborhoods we cover is essential.

Independent community journalism holds local governments to account. It connects neighbors.

It is the credible source when social media goes haywire. It allows a community to debate and celebrate.

Now we need to add a new revenue stream to our mix of advertising and print subscribers. For that we have created a non-profit called Growing Community Media that will soon own these four publications and work diligently to broaden local partnerships and donations. Think of it as public radio without the pledge drives. (Though we will be persistent in asking for you to join in.)

We are turning to our supporters in these neighborhoods, individuals who grasp the importance of independent local journalism; readers, specifically our thousands of digitalonly readers, who, when they think about it, know someone has to pay these reporters, photographers, and designers; and, more gradually, to local and national foundations, some of whom have suddenly begun to take very seriously the possibility that neighborhood journalism could vanish, leaving a hole in our democracy.

How can you help? Jump in with your active support. Talk up the importance of the Review to neighbors. Critique our efforts. As we raise more money, what stories should we be telling? And what stories can you help us tell? Become a Digital Member with a onetime donation or a monthly donation. Brag about it after you donate. Saving independent community journalism is good work.

Non-profit journalism is the future of journalism. It is all around us and being supported by everyday people who know in their bones that life is all about community and that community needs active means to connect and grow.

Here’s how to donate:

DAN HALEY

ForestParkReview.com/donate

Want to talk about other ways we can partner to grow community? Reach out directly to me: dhaley@wjinc.com.

Call Jill at (708) 524-8300 or visit ForestParkReview.com/subscribe

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Forest Park Review, September 11, 2019

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Commissioners vote in favor of recreational marijuana tax Town hall meeting Thursday to discuss dispensaries

By MARIA MAXHAM Staff Reporter

Forest Park Mayor Rory Hoskins and village commissioners voted 3-0 with one abstention to approve a 3 percent tax on potential

sales of recreational marijuana in the village.

This vote was only to approve the tax rate, not to allow the sale of recreational cannabis itself. Illinois municipalities have a deadline of Sept. 30 to register with the Illinois Department of Revenue to impose this tax.

Hoskins said a number of vendors have expressed interest in opening recreational marijuana dispensaries in Forest Park. But he noted that this would mean zoning decisions for the village.

Commissioner Dan Novak questioned how the recreational sale of marijuana

would affect Forest Park’s image and the health and safety of the village. He also asked how “the legal revenue differs in potential revenue compared to video gaming’s projected revenue.” Abstaining from the vote to approve this tax, he said he knows village authorities plan to “dive deeper” to explore these issues.

Mayor Hoskins is holding a town hall meeting on Thursday, Sept. 12 at 7 p.m. at the Forest Park Community Center to discuss the issue of recreational marijuana dispensaries in the village. The meeting, he said, will be a

chance for village officials to hear what the public has to say about allowing the sale of recreational marijuana in town. He added that there will be “a couple of experts on hand to answer questions and address concerns.”

On May 31, the Illinois General Assembly passed a bill legalizing the sale and use of marijuana for adults 21 and over. On June 25, Governor JB Pritzker signed the bill into law, which takes effect on Jan. 1, 2020. Local municipalities retain the right to opt out of allowing recreational dispensaries to open, as Naperville did last week.

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Forest Park Review, September 11, 2019

C R I M E

Doorbell camera captures apparent burglary attempt A doorbell equipped with a surveillance camera apparently captured an attempted burglary in which the offender made two attempts to break into a home in the 7700 block of Adams St. before giving up on Aug. 29 between 11:30 and 11:45 a.m.

The homeowner got a Ring doorbell alert on his smartphone, which showed video of a man walking up to the side door of the residence, attempt to open it and place his ear against the glass.

Police responded to the address after the homeowner called 911 to report a burglary in progress, and the offender walked across the street to stay out of sight of the responding units.

Officers located a Nicor employee several houses down, and left the area after interviewing him.

The homeowner received another Ring doorbell alert a short time later, showing the same alleged offender attempting to gain entry to the same door by pushing on it several times. The homeowner again called 911, but before police arrived the apparent burglar walked away through the bushes and into the railroad easement at the end of Adams Street.

Woman injured in rollover crash Forest Park police cited a 39-year-old Addison man for leaving the scene of an accident, having no driver’s license or insurance and failure to yield after he allegedly fled from a rollover crash that injured the driver of another vehicle at the intersection of Roosevelt Road and Elgin Avenue on Sept.

2 at about 1 p.m.

According to the police report, the victim was headed eastbound on Roosevelt Road when her vehicle was hit by the offender, who was attempting to make a left-hand

turn onto Elgin Avenue from westbound Roosevelt Road.

The victim, a 34-year-old Chicago woman, had to be extricated from her 2003 Toyota and was taken to Loyola University Medical Center for treatment of what were described as non-life threatening injuries.

The offender reportedly drove from the scene, but a witness flagged down a police officer and pointed to the alley south of Roosevelt Road and west of Elgin Avenue, where the offender had stopped. He allegedly told police he left the scene of the crash because he was scared.

Aggravated battery A 41-year-old Lyons man faces two counts of aggravated battery to a police officer, five counts of resisting arrest and criminal trespass after he allegedly punched two Forest Park police officers who tried to remove him from a Madison Street tavern on Sept. 7 at about 10:45 p.m.

Police responded to Angelo O’Leary’s, 7522 Madison St., after a bartender called 911 to have Christopher S. Buck removed because he allegedly was very intoxicated and disturbing staff and other customers.

Police tried several times to convince Buck to leave or risk being arrested for trespassing, but Buck allegedly would not cooperate and squared off with fists raised in front of two officers.

As a male police officer took hold of Buck’s right arm to escort him out, Buck reportedly punched a nearby female officer in the chin and then punched a male officer in the chest and then resisted attempts to arrest him before he could be subdued.

Creepy guy A 51-year-old Berwyn man was issued a local ordinance ticket for disorderly conduct after allegedly making a pass at a 23-year-old

woman near the entrance to Walmart, 1300 Desplaines Ave., on Sept. 5 at about 1:45 p.m.

The victim told police she was standing by the entrance to the store when the offender approached her and offered to shake her hand. No wanting to be rude, the victim shook the man’s hand. At that time, the man allegedly pulled the victim closer to him, wrapped a leg around her and whispered something provocative.

The victim pulled away from the man and called police. The victim was given the option of signing a misdemeanor battery charge or a local ordinance violation, according to the police report. The victim chose the latter option.

It was reportedly the second time the man had “creeped out” someone at the store. The last time was on Jan. 1, police reported.

Bike stolen Police responded to Walmart, 1300 Desplaines Ave., on Sept. 7 at about 5:55 p.m. after a 20-year-old Cicero man called to report that his bicycle, which had been parked outside the store, was missing.

The victim told police that he parked his white Trek Domane SL5 bike outside the store and was inside shopping for 15 to 20 minutes. The bike was chained to the bike rack, but the chain was simply wrapped around the bike and not locked.

According to the police report, the bike was valued at between $3,000 and $5,000.

These items were obtained from police reports filed by the Forest Park Police Department, Aug. 29-Sept. 8, 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 Bob Uphues

Forest Park Review, September 11, 2019

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Sept. 11 - 18

BIG WEEK

Mystery author at Centuries & Sleuths

Century & Sleuths Bookstore, 7419 Madison St., hosts a discussion and book signing featuring Mark Pryor, a native of England and now an Austin, Texas, resident, Travis County assistant district attorney and mystery author. He’ll be discussing “The Book Artist,” the eighth and latest novel in his Hugo Marston series. Free and open to the public.

Library programs continue offsite Music with a twist What do recorders, harmonicas, drums and accordions have in common? When it comes to music, they make very odd pairings. Hear Klezmer, blues, tango, swing and more like you’ve never heard it before as the Forest Park Arts Alliance brings you Stoop Session #3 featuring the Fleur de Chanson Recorder Trio with guest John Milan on Monday, Sept. 16 at 7:30 p.m. at 540 Ferdinand Ave. The event is free and open to the public.

Despite much of the Forest Park Public Library being closed while renovations are completed, its programming continues offsite. For kids, there’s Storytime Open House on Sept. 6 at 10:30 a.m.; Babybugs Lapsit Storytime at 9:30 a.m. every Tuesday, beginning Sept. 10; Toddler Storytime on at 10:30 a.m. on Tuesdays, beginning Sept. 10; and Hello Amigos! Storytime on at 10:30 a.m. on Wednesdays, beginning Sept. 11. All storytime programs will be at the Howard Mohr Community Center, 7640 Jackson Blvd. For adults, there’s Device Advice on Sept. 10 at 11 a.m., also at the Howard Mohr Community Center.

Movie nights for kids The Park District of Forest Park, 7501 Harrison St., hosts a pair of movie nights for kids in the coming week. The park district kicks off its Friday Fun Night Movie series for kids ages 5 to 12 on Friday, Sept.

13 from 6:15 to 8 p.m. at Building 4. The cost is $5 per child (preregister or at the door). The park district will host a Tween/Teen Movie Night for fifth- through eighth-graders on Saturday, Sept. 14 from 6:15 to 8:15 p.m. at the Roos Recreation Center, 7329 Harrison St. The gym will be open and pizza, popcorn and beverages will be served while kids watch a PG or PG-13 film. Admission is $7 for resident and $10 for nonresidents. For more info or to register online, visit www.pdofp.org.

Camp under the stars Pitch a tent and spend the night under the stars as the Park District of Forest Park, 7501 Harrison St., turns its softball fields into a campground on Sept. 14-15. Enjoy a hot dog and baked beans dinner, then roast marshmallows before watching a late-night movie in the outdoor theater. The campout will conclude the following morning with breakfast. The event is for families only. Parents must accompany children. Families can set up their campsites any time after 2 p.m. on Sept. 14. Activities start at 5 p.m.

The cost is $40 per family/tent (limit 6). Each additional person is $8. For more info or to register online, visit www.pdofp.org.

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Forest Park Review, September 11, 2019

18TH ANNUAL CAMPIN’ OUT SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 14- SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 15 5:00pm-9:00am You don’t have to drive hours to go on a camp-out. The Park District is turning the ball fields into our very own campground! Families are invited to pitch their tents for some overnight fun in the park. Do as much or as little as you like. The Park District will have a chuck wagon set-up, with our world famous hot dogs and beans, and a campfire for roasting marshmallows, and making s’mores. There will also be a late-night movie and time to tell some of your favorite ghost stories. The campout will conclude with a breakfast.

This event is for families only. Parents must accompany children. There is no rain date. Feel free to come anytime after 2:00pm on Saturday to set up your tent and hang out with your family.

The Park District activities begin at 5:00pm.

Min/Max: 15/Unlimited Ages: All Location: Park District Baseball/Softball Fields Fees: $40 per family/tent (Limit 6) • $8 each additional participant

Call 708-366-7500 or visit PDOFP.org/17th-annual-campin-out/ to learn more

Forest Park Review, September 11, 2019

Ribfest a ‘smashing success’ The annual Forest Park Ribfest at the Picnic Grove featured ribs and other food, drink and live music.

Commisioner Ryan Nero called this weekend’s event a “smashing success,” and Mayor Rory Hoskins said it was a “great representation of Forest Park.” (Top left) A pit master flips a slab of ribs. (Top right) Attendees enjoy live music. (Middle) Folks from Three Smokers and a Pig serve samples.(Bottom) Pit master from Pit Zone BBQ checks on a slab of ribs .

ALEX ROGALS/Staff Photographer

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Forest Park Review, September 11, 2019

Community journalism remade • Growing accountability • Growing connection • Growing conversations • Growing local news • Growing equity • Growing civility • Growing partnerships • Growing shared history • Growing storytelling • Growing belonging

Growing Community Media

We’ve created a new non-profit with one purpose: to own our four respected and essential community newspapers and, then, to grow independent, sustainable journalism in our seven neighborhoods for the decades to come.

That path will surely include printing newspapers and selling all the advertising we can. But we’ll add more digital reporting, more specialized beats, video, podcasts and events.

And where’s this new stream of non-profit revenue coming from? From readers and donors in our seven neighborhoods who see the essential value in independent community journalism.

Partner with us.

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Find out more at GrowingCommunityMedia.org

Forest Park Review, September 11, 2019

PMSA

Expanding from page 1 curriculum, which notably includes the International Baccalaureate Diploma program.

The program allows high school students the opportunity to earn college credits and is considered by some education experts to be more comprehensive in its assessment of students’ intellectual and emotional skills than honors and AP courses.

Rodriguez and PMSA Principal Bessie Karvelas said that since PMSA secured its IB Diploma authorization in 2016, academic performance has improved significantly at the school. They’re hoping for similar results among math and science academy students at East and West.

On average, district officials said, around 500 students a year apply for entry into PMSA, which accepted roughly 50 percent of those applicants this year. Rodriguez said that around 850 students currently attend PMSA — an increase of roughly 15 percent over the school’s 2016 enrollment.

“There are basically two expansions.

Currently, there’s an expansion happening at PMSA internally, where we’re going from 742 students to over 900 next year,” Rodriguez said. “This other expansion into East and West will bring the number of students [receiving access to PMSA’s rigorous curriculum] even higher.”

Rodriguez said that 130 incoming freshmen at East and West — 70 at each school — could enroll in the new academies starting in either the 2020-21 or 2021-22 school years. Those are 130 students who, in prior years, would have been denied admission into PMSA because of the school’s limited space, the superintendent said.

“So we are proposing to open this possibility at East and West. We are proposing, for lack of not having another name right now, a Proviso East Math and Science Academy and a Proviso West Math and Science Academy,” Rodriguez said.

“Those students will be students of their respective schools in an International Baccalaureate program at each school, but those programs are a replication of PMSA,” he said. “Everything PMSA does will happen there. So, instead of 21 credits for graduation, it will be 25. Instead of a sevenperiod day, it will be an eight-period day.”

Karvelas, who doubles as the district’s chief innovation officer and was tapped to oversee the expansion effort, echoed Rodriguez, saying the district is “literally replicating” PMSA’s academic program.

That means five years of math and two years of a research intensive curriculum in areas of personal interest to students.

Karvelas said PMSA students also start studying foreign language earlier than students in other high schools and are required to pass international exams in order to secure the IB diploma.

“The same IB diploma and the same

rigor is going to be [at the PMSA replicas at East and West],” Karvelas said on Sept.

4. “We’re just serving more students in our community. They’ll still identify with their school [East or West], but the academic program will be different.”

Rodriguez said that there will be one application for all three math and science academies, with an area for parents to indicate their top choice among the three.

The admissions process will be the same as in years past, he said. Students are admitted to PMSA based on a variety of factors, including teacher recommendations and test scores, among others.

With enrollment expanding beyond the Forest Park campus, a student who doesn’t score high enough in the admissions process to get into the original PMSA (if that’s his or her top choice on the enrollment application) will still have the opportunity to enroll in the math and science academies at East or West.

Rodriguez said that his administration has been communicating with architects from Perkins and Will about how to accommodate the smaller math and science academies.

“There are ideas about building separate wings, which would be segregation,” Rodriguez said. “We’re also talking about coutilization, so perhaps they will be on the same floor, because they are going to take electives together and be in the cafeteria together. We don’t want to segregate completely; instead we want to have a co-utilization model where students are able to mingle and be together — just like our College and Career Academies at East and West.”

Rodriguez said that administrators are still working on determining how much the expansion might cost, but he provided a rough estimate of around $1 million a year, which includes funding for six to seven additional teachers at each school, program directors, clerks and counselors. The money, the superintendent said, would come from the district’s general fund and not new taxes.

“Our year-end balances have been positive, so we do have the capacity of utilizing some monies to do this,” Rodriguez said.

The superintendent added that the expansion will not substantially alter the nature and timeline of construction work related to the district’s master facilities plan, which the D209 school board approved in January. The plan calls for a range of capital improvements — including lifesafety maintenance projects, electrical upgrades, repositioning athletic fields, among others — that could cost more than $100 million over a 10-year period.

Rodriguez said the prospect of expanding PMSA’s academic offerings to East and West was discussed with architects while the master facilities plan was being developed.

Karvelas said that both East and West would need to apply separately for IB diploma authorization — a process that takes between two and four years. It took PMSA two years to obtain its IB authorization, which it secured in 2016.

Proviso West is currently applying for IB Career-related Programme status, which is distinct from, and less rigorous than, the IB

13

File Photo

WITHOUT WALLS: As student population at PMSA’s Forest Park campus grows, D209 administrators plan to replicate the school’s rigorous curriculum at East and West.

Diploma program.

District officials said that despite the twoto four-year authorization process, East and West will have obtained IB status by the time the freshmen who are accepted into the new academies at those schools are poised to receive their IB Diplomas. Students don’t start the IB course of study until their junior year of high school.

Since it opened in 2005, PMSA has become a local juggernaut in the annual academic rankings of area high schools. In 2018, the school was ranked third-best public high school in the Chicago area by Chicago Magazine and U.S. News & World Report ranked the school the seventh-best high school in the state and 175th in the country.

The school has also racked up other honors. Last year, for instance, the U.S. Department of Education named PMSA a National Blue Ribbon School in recognition of its effort to close the race-based and income-based achievement gap among students. The school was among only 24 public schools in the state and 349 public and private schools in the nation to earn the distinction, according to the Forest Park Review.

Meanwhile, East and West have languished near the bottom of local and national school rankings and their reputations have lagged far behind their sister school despite the significant progress that’s been made at each school in recent years, Rodriguez said.

The superintendent also addressed criticisms that the new academies at East and West could lead to more social stratification and potential confusion in school buildings that already have a range of academic pathways and curricula.

Along with the College and Career Academy model that is a staple at both East and West, East also has a two-year contract with the nonprofit Marzano Academy, which “helps schools implement personalized

competency-based education, a system that empowers students to study and master skills at their own pace, and turn to peers, the internet, library and other outlets before they lean on teachers for help,” according to the Review.

“With the buildings, there are still possibilities to reimagine how we do things. What’s not working are the levels of academic achievement at East and West within the last 20 years. They’re not acceptable,” Rodriguez said.

During the process of creating the facilities plan, architects and community members floated the possibility of closing PMSA’s standalone Forest Park campus — a converted medical office building — and moving the school to the campuses of East and West. The mere notion prompted outrage from PMSA parents and students.

Rodriguez conceded that it could be a tall order persuading people that the new math and science academies at East and West are more than mere consolation prizes, but he argued that the rigorous curriculum will do a lot to change the current narrative.

“We have to change that reality to ensure we’re not promoting a culture of low expectations. It’s no secret [East and West are among the lower-performing schools],” he said. “How do we challenge that? The idea of IB at East and West brings equity, brings excellence and it’s proven. It will help the test scores and the reputations at Proviso East and West. It will bring folks in the township a sense of hope that something big is happening here.”

Rodriguez was scheduled to present his proposal to the full D209 school board at a regular meeting on Sept. 10. The superintendent said that board members have expressed tacit support for the proposal, which he said has been talked about informally since at least 2016.

CONTACT: michael@oakpark.com

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Forest Park Review, September 11, 2019

S P O N S O R E D

C O N T E N T COOKIES: An assortment of cookies available for purchase at Seph’s Sweets, alongside a freshly brewed cup of coffee.

MELISSA ELSMO/Contributor

OATMEAL: Oatmeal, fruit and granola from Seph’s Sweets, shown here topped with blueberries, bananas, and pure maple syrup ($7.45).

Sweet shop hits the sweet spot

N

sures quality control over their estled on “the circle” products. As a result, Seph’s adjacent to ElmSweets focuses on a seasonally wood Park Village driven rotating menu, includHall, Seph’s Sweets ing vegan, dairy-free and gluten (12 Conti Pkwy.) free treats. Fresh-baked bones tempts locals to sit for a leisurely are available for your canine breakfast, savor a blissful butter companion, while cake balls cookie, or conjure up the cake of are a favorite among Seph’s their dreams. For nine years the youngest patrons. Generouslydiminutive bakery, café and cake sized raspberry filled linzer shop has been serving up baked cookies are a favorite among all goods made from all-natural, topcookie lovers visiting the shop. quality ingredients.

In addition to sweets, Seph’s “Our success is based on caroffers a full breakfast and lunch ing about every product we make Food Writer menu. Their most popular and making genuine connecbreakfast item is “The Usual,” tions with our customers,” says featuring two eggs cooked to orSephora Popa, chef and co-owner of Seph’s Sweets. “We greet most customers der, seasoned potatoes, choice of breakfast by name and truly know what is going on in meat, and pancakes or toast. The Popa family is particularly proud of the house-made their lives.”

It was a family decision to open Seph’s sausage available in chicken, pork and vegSweets nine years ago and Popa has inten- an varieties. The lunch menu features and tionally kept the business within the family. array of hot and cold sandwiches, homeDoing so helps keeps expenses down and en- made soups and fresh salads.

MELISSA ELSMO

CHICKEN SAUSAGE: Popa prides herself on her house-made breakfast sausage. Here chicken sausage is shown as part of Seph’s most popular breakfast offering, called “The Usual” for $8.95.

A full vegan breakfast is available for just a dollar more.

MELISSA ELSMO/Contributor

Forest Park Review, September 11, 2019

S P O N S O R E D

15

C O N T E N T

Dine -in / Carry Out / Delivery Catering / Bar / Banquet Chinese • Thai • Japanese Cuisine Hibachi Steak House

Photos courtesy of Seph’s Sweets

“I like going between sweet and savory at the shop,” says Popa, “and I especially love making our cakes because they let me use my creativity.”

Daily business at Seph’s Sweets is complemented by Popa’s personalized custom cakes and sweet table displays suitable for weddings, birthdays, business events or baby showers. Customers work closely with Popa to develop a theme and set a comfortable budget when creating custom cakes. Popa’s passion and

talent are evident in every cake coming out of Seph’s Sweets.

“Back in the day, the circle was hopping” said Popa. “I really appreciate the village of Elmwood Park trying to bring that sort of energy back to this area and draw attention to businesses located here.”

The next time you find yourself on “the circle,” stop by Seph’s Sweets for genuine customer service and a sweet or savory treat.

Hours: Mon.–Thurs. 11:30am–9:30pm Fri. & Sat. 11:30am–10:30pm Sunday 12:30pm - 9:30pm

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK • FREE PARKING All Major Credit Cards Accepted

708-453-8242

7444 North Avenue • Elmwood Park FAX 708-453-3044 • www.newstarrestaurant.com

16

Forest Park Review, September 11, 2019

OPINION O U R

I

V I E W

Sweepstakes chicanery

t took years for Forest Park voters to finally succeed in getting a straight-up vote on whether video gaming should be allowed to continue in the village’s bars and restaurants. The political process conspired to block a vote, certain conflicted politicians piled logs in front of ballot access process, big money from outside gaming backers tried to swamp the vote and still, and still by a narrow vote, Forest Parkers tossed video gaming out.

Now there is a different version of the same old gaming nonsense and it is seeping into town through various cracks in the regulatory and legal system.

Called sweepstakes machines, these are in almost every aspect video gaming machines. Maybe after a few free spins you need to start pumping money in. And after you lose most of it, you can redeem your pennies in either cash or merchandise.

It’s got similarities to Chuck E. Cheese for grown-ups except without the crappy pizza.

Unless a town takes direct action, and Forest Park ought to take such action, these machines are legal and completely unregulated. The village gets not a nickel out of this scam.

So far while a handful of local bars have installed the machines, other bar owners — we hope out of some respect for voters — have not. You are more likely to find sweepstakes machines in Forest Park gas stations at the moment.

Right now Mayor Rory Hoskins is trying to identify placement of all the machines and determining if proprietors have paid the modest cost of a village amusement tax. That’s fine.

We’d rather see the village council proceed directly to a full-tilt ban on sweepstakes machines in Forest Park.

F

PMSA at Proviso East

rom Day One we’ve had concerns about the PMSA educational model for Proviso Township high schoolers. The selective enrollment school skimmed the top students from East and West, brought them to a new school in Forest Park and left the failing students behind in cruelly mismanaged facilities in Maywood and Hillside.

It is impossible not to admire what an academically dynamic school PMSA has grown into. Truly it is a jewel in the township. Our upset has eased over the past five years as determined efforts have been made by visionary elected leaders, and the administration they have assembled, to revive East and West.

Now we are excited to watch the announcement that replica versions of PMSA’s International Baccalaureate program will soon be installed at both East and West. This is an audacious declaration of possibilities and expectations for our public high schools.

Further, the instinct of Supt. Jesse Rodriquez that this new program not be physically segregated into a separate wing is exactly right. The mini-PMSA model needs to be on full display for every teacher and student in our schools. We need an aspiration model not a segregation model.

Another bold, positive step for Proviso Township High Schools.

W

A storm is threatening

e have to go back to November, I think, to really capture the full odyssey here: Last fall, the Rolling Stones announced their first tour in a couple of years. My wife is a huge fan, so I got tickets for Christmas. Two for the last night of the tour (June 25 in Chicago) and two for the first night (April 20 in Miami). I presented them at Christmas and they were well received.

Then Mick visited his cardiologist.

I guess you do that before a tour when you’re an aging rock star. Maybe when you’re not aging, too — tours are expensive — but presumably Mick’s workup was slightly more thorough than would be, say, Justin Timberlake’s.

During Mick’s examination, they found something wrong with a heart valve, and elected to replace it. This delayed the tour.

OK, first off, it is hilarious that the Stones have reached the point that they had a tour delayed by a heart condition. They’ve been arrested at customs, they’ve been banned by whole countries, they’ve had a person stabbed in the front row of a concert, and now they have aged into “Dr. Goldman says I need a few weeks off to have a procedure.”

So they postponed the tour, and we all waited while Mick got the greenlight. Which he did, eventually, and the last show of the tour became the second show of the tour and the first show of the tour was rescheduled from 4/20 (which would have been amusing) to 8/31, the last stop.

We rearranged our travel and thought no more of it.

The Chicago show came and went. It was great, I thought, but the expert with me thought they looked a little tentative. They also goofed once, which I loved: Mick and Keith started playing two different songs at the same time. They laughed, acknowledged it was early in the tour, and kept rolling. Mick was a little cautious, as any senior dancing on a stadium stage would be — don’t want to slip and break a hip or anything. It was fun, though, and they’re still the best band in the world if you adjust

for age.

So a couple months pass and we head south for the Miami show. And a few days before the show, we start hearing increasingly exciting reports about something called “Tropical Storm Dorian.” And we enjoy ourselves, imagining the Stones acting entirely age-appropriately, which is to say, sitting around monitoring the Weather Channel.

And we get to Thursday night, and we are in Key West, and the Stones tweeted that, out of abundant caution with regard to what was now Hurricane Dorian, they were moving the show up from Saturday night to Friday night.

This is what happens when old people obsessively watch the Weather Channel.

We packed up, set alarms for bright and early, and drove past hurricane shutters and gas lines and, in formation with other prospective refugees, drove 160 miles back to Hard Rock Stadium. The reports about Dorian were growing increasingly dire and shrill, so we kept watching the projected path, which kept getting better and better vis-à-vis us getting to see the concert and fly home ahead of the hurricane, and we kept giggling about Charlie and Mick and Ron and Keith sitting around the TV in Keith’s hotel room, taking drugs (beta blockers, blood thinners, Lipitor) and fretting about what to wear and what time to leave and how to account for the traffic and all the other things dudes in their late 70s do in Miami.

Anyhow, the show went off without a hitch, and it was great. They haven’t slowed, it turns out — though Chicago was, in fact, tentative. They were rusty. Come Miami, they were not.

Dorian missed Florida almost entirely, by the way.

(PSA: Don’t watch television.) And as my favorite Miami writer says, I Swear I Am Not Making This Up: The only rain we saw the whole weekend was the brief cloudburst coinciding with the first encore.

Gimme Shelter.

ALAN

BROUILETTE

Forest Park Review, September 11, 2019

DIVERSITY

Extensive process from page 1 is bound by state laws regarding hiring of police and fire. We have no leeway whatsoever to do anything that’s already not a state law.”

Hiring and promoting fire and police officers is not done by the police or fire chiefs.

In fact, Aftanas said that the first time he sees the applicants is at orientation, after they’ve already been hired. Hiring is the responsibility of the police and fire commission. State municipal code requires that for a village the size of Forest Park, this commission must be a three-person board. Forest Park’s commission, however, operated with only two members after the 2017 death of Brad Zadstra. This spring, post-election, Amy Rita, a longtime commission member, stepped down and Steve Hinton moved out of town. As a result, Hoskins had the opportunity to appoint three new members to the commission.

The commission is now chaired by Rachel Entler, a long-time resident and until April a member of the village council. Entler’s father once served as Forest Park’s fire chief. With a lot of experience in the administration and in the village itself, Hoskins says Entler will “bring her experience and knowledge of the workings of Forest Park to the board.” Residents Kate Webster, who previously served as the chair of the Forest Park Diversity Commission, and attorney Jerry Bramwell were also appointed by Hoskins. The result is a brand-new commission, now tasked with the difficult job of figuring out how to bring more diversity to the village’s police and fire departments.

The process to become a police officer in Forest Park is extensive. It begins with a state written exam administered by a thirdparty agency hired by the village to assist with the hiring process. A preliminary list of candidates then has preference points added to the score before a final list is posted. Preference points are given for education levels, extra certifications or being a military veteran. As Entler says, preference points are very objective and are not given for ethnicity or race.

The next step for a candidate is an oral is difficult. interview with the commission itself. This Hoskins agrees it’s a complicated issue, pass/fail exam is very objective. “The scor- and it can’t be fixed overnight. But he said, ing criteria is listed on the questions. There “personnel is policy,” and that appointing is a point scale based on your response” so the new members to the commission is a there is no subjectivity, says Deputy Fire step in the right direction. He said the deChief Phil Chiappetta. mographics of Forest Park have changed Candidates that pass the oral interview relatively quickly over the past decade, and are subject to other tests, including a poly- the departments can’t keep up with such graph test, a background check, and a medi- rapid change, especially given the fact that cal exam. At any point if a candidate fails a fire and police officers are career positions test, they will be stricken from with little turnover. He said, “dithe final eligibility list. versity is a great goal, but we The fire department’s hirdon’t want to sacrifice profesing process is similar but has sionalism” in order to achieve the added qualification that it Instead, he said Forest Park all new firefighter hires must needs to look for “long term first be trained and licensed strategies to better recruit test paramedics. Many local towns takers.” have this requirement, which Curtis agrees. He started the ensures that all first responders Black Fire Brigade in June 2018. are equipped to handle medical An organization of black fireemergencies. fighters, EMTs and paramedAftanas said given a small ics, the goal of his group is to force, losing a few minority inspire and train black youth members can change the staand women to pursue careers in tistics drastically. Recently, he firefighting, a field where both said, the village lost several miare underrepresented. He also norities from the department. says his organization works A Hispanic officer moved out of with communities to figure out state, an African American ofhow to bring more diversity ficer retired after 28 years, and into such jobs. another left due to disability.

He said a good place to start is RORY HOSKINS That changes the demographics with high school students. He’s Mayor of the department significantly. an advocate of getting kids off Additionally, jobs as police the streets. “If you teach a kid officers and fire fighters are cahow to save a life, he’s less likely reer positions, and there isn’t to take one,” says Curtis. Teachmuch turnover in the departing fire science and EMT skills ments. Aftanas and McDermott say that un- in high school is a great way to pave the way til recent retirements, 15 years has been the for minorities to pursue a career as a firefighter, he says. average career length.

McDermott also believes that teaching Another roadblock to hiring a more diverse force is that fewer minorities are high school students about the path to bepursuing careers in the field. Chicago Fire come a firefighter is a great way to inspire Lt. Quention Curtis, a 30-plus year veteran young people to pursue a career in the field. with the Chicago department, says less than The fire department participates in career one percent of graduates from paramedic days, where firefighters talk to high school programs in the Chicago area are African students about what it takes to be a firefightAmerican. Curtis, founder and president of er. Triton College, he says, has a great fire the Black Fire Brigade in Chicago, said the science program. He likes to tell high school 2019 paramedic class at Malcolm X College students about the steps necessary to behad no African American students. If mi- come a firefighter, which, in Forest Park and norities aren’t pursuing careers in civil ser- many neighboring communities, includes vice, bringing them into local departments becoming an EMT and then a paramedic.

“Diversity is a great goal, but we don’t want to sacrifice professionalism.”

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Forest Park Review, September 11, 2019

RELIGION GUIDE

Roman Catholic

Check First.

First Congregational Church of Maywood

400 N. Fifth Avenue (1 block north of Lake St.) Come join us for Sunday Morning Worship at 11 am Pastor Elliot Wimbush will be preaching the message.

Refreshments and fellowship follow the service.

708-344-6150 firstchurchofmaywood.org When you're looking for a place to worship the Lord, Check First.

You’re Invited to A Church for All Nations A Church Without Walls SERVICE LOCATION Forest Park Plaza 7600 W. Roosevelt Road Forest Park, IL 60130

William S. Winston Pastor Sunday Service 7AM, 9AM & 11:15AM Believer’s Walk of Faith Broadcast Schedule (Times in Central Standard Time) Television DAYSTAR (M-F)

3:30-4:00pm

Nationwide

WJYS-TV (M-F)

6:30-7:00am

Chicago, IL.

WCIU-TV (Sun.)

10:30-11:00am

Chicago, IL.

Word Network

10:30-11:00am

Nationwide

(M-F)

www.livingwd.org www.billwinston.org

West Suburban Temple Har Zion

1040 N. Harlem Avenue River Forest Meet our Rabbi, Adir Glick Pray, learn, and celebrate with our caring, progressive, egalitarian community.

Interfaith families are welcome.

Accredited Early Childhood Program Religious School for K thru 12 Daily Morning Minyan Weekly Shabbat Services Friday 6:30pm & Saturday 10:00am Affiliated with United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism 708.366.9000 www.wsthz.org

188 South Oak Park Ave. Saturday Mass: 5:30 p.m.

Sunday Masses: 9:00 & 11:00 a.m., 5:00 p.m.

Weekday Mass: 8:30 a.m. M–F Holy Day Masses: As Announced Reconciliation: Saturday 4:15 p.m.

Parish Office: 708-848-4417 Religious Ed Phone: 708-848-7220

Good Shepherd Worshiping at 820 Ontario, Oak Park IL (First Baptist Church) 9:00a-Worship 10:30a-Education Hour

All are welcome. goodshepherdlc.org 708-848-4741

Lutheran—ELCA

United Lutheran Church

409 Greenfield Street (at Ridgeland Avenue) Oak Park Holy Communion with nursery care and children’s chapel each Sunday at 9:30 a.m.

on the corner of Thomas St. & Fair Oaks Ave.

worship on Sundays @ 10am nursery care available fairoakspres.org 744 Fair Oaks Ave. • 708-386-4920

OAK PARK MEETING OF FRIENDS (Quakers) Meeting For Worship Sundays at 10:00 a.m. at Oak Park Art League 720 Chicago Ave., Oak Park Please call 708-445-8201 www.oakparkfriends.org

Roman Catholic

Ascension Catholic Church

www.unitedlutheranchurch.org

708/386-1576

(708) 697-5000 LIVE Webcast - 11:15AM Service

St. Edmund Catholic Church

ELCA, Lutheran

Lutheran-Independent

Grace Lutheran Church

7300 W. Division, River Forest David R. Lyle, Senior Pastor David W. Wegner, Assoc. Pastor Lauren Dow Wegner, Assoc. Pastor Sunday Worship, 8:30 & 11:00 a.m.

Sunday School/Adult Ed. 9:45 a.m.

Childcare Available

Grace Lutheran School

Preschool - 8th Grade Bill Koehne, Principal 366-6900, graceriverforest.org Lutheran-Missouri Synod

St. John Evangelical Lutheran Church

305 Circle Ave, Forest Park Sunday Worship, 9:30am Christian Education Hour 8:30am Wednesday Worship 7:00pm Wheelchair Access to Sanctuary Leonard Payton, Pastor Roney Riley, Assistant Pastor 708-366-3226 www.stjohnforestpark.org Methodist

First United Methodist Church of Oak Park

324 N. Oak Park Avenue 708-383-4983 www.firstUMCoakpark.org Sunday School for all Ages, 9am Sunday Worship, 10am Children’s Chapel during Worship Rev. Katherine Thomas Paisley, Pastor Professionally Staffed Nursery Fellowship Time after Worship

808 S. East Ave. 708/848-2703 www.ascensionoakpark.com Worship: Saturday Mass 5:00 pm Sunday Masses 7:30, 9:00, 11 am, 5:00 pm Sacrament of Reconciliation 4 pm Saturday Taize Prayer 7:30 pm First Fridays Feb.– Dec. & Jan. 1

Rev. James Hurlbert, Pastor

Roman Catholic

St. Bernardine Catholic Church Harrison & Elgin, Forest Park

CELEBRATING OUR 107TH YEAR! Sat. Masses: 8:30am & 5:00pm SUNDAY MASSES: 8:00am & 10:30am 10:30 Mass-Daycare for all ages CCD Sun. 9am-10:15am Reconciliation: Sat. 9am & 4pm Weekday Masses: Monday–Thursday 6:30am Church Office: 708-366-0839 CCD: 708-366-3553 www.stbern.com Pastor: Fr. Stanislaw Kuca

St. Giles Family Mass Community

We welcome all to attend Sunday Mass at 10 a.m. on the St. Giles Parish campus on the second floor of the school gym, the southernmost building in the school complex at 1034 North Linden Avenue.

Established in 1970, we are a laybased community within St. Giles Roman Catholic Parish.

Our Mass is family-friendly.

We encourage liturgically active toddlers. Children from 3 to 13 and young adults play meaningful parts in each Sunday liturgy.

Together with the parish, we offer Catechesis of the Good Shepherd, a Montessori-based religious education program for children in grades K-8.

For more information, go to http://www.stgilesparish.org/ family-mass-community or call Bob Wielgos at 708-288-2196.

Third Unitarian Church 10AM Sunday Forum 11AM Service Rev. Colleen Vahey thirdunitarianchurch.org (773) 626-9385 301 N. Mayfield, Chicago Committed to justice, not to a creed Upcoming Religious Holidays

Sep14 Elevation of the Life-giving Cross (Holy Cross) Christian 23 Equinox Mabon - Ostara Wicca 27 Meskel Ethiopian Orthodox Christian 29 Michael and All Angels - Christian 30–Oct 1 Rosh Hashanah Jewish

To place a listing in the Religion Guide, call Mary Ellen: 708/613-3342

Forest Park Review, September 11, 2019

FORESTPARKREVIEW.COM New local ads this week

YOUR WEEKLY AD

REACHES SIX SUBURBAN COMMUNITIES: OAK PARK, RIVER FOREST, FOREST PARK, BROOKFIELD, RIVERSIDE, NORTH RIVERSIDE, AND PARTS OF CHICAGO

WEDNESDAY

CLASSIFIED Deadline is Monday at 5:00 p.m.

19

HOURS: 9:00 A.M.– 5:00 P.M. MON–FRI

NEW!

Please Check Your Ad: The publisher will not be responsible for more than one incorrect insertion.

Wednesday Journal Classified must be notified before the second insertion.

The newspaper reserves the right to edit or reject any advertisement.

Place your ad online anytime at: www.ForestParkReview.com/Classified/

BY PHONE: (708) 613-3333 | BY FAX: (708) 467-9066 | BY E-MAIL: CLASSIFIEDS@FORESTPARKREVIEW.COM HELP WANTED

HELP WANTED

Part Time Positions Available for 2019-2020 school year After-School Recreation / Day Care Worker Youth Development Specialist on site at Oak Park public schools The Day Care Program of Hephzibah Children’s Association is accepting applications for nurturing individuals to provide care and supervision of 5-11-year-old children in the After School Day Care program on site at Oak Park public schools. The days and hours are Mon – Fri from 2:30-6:00 PM and 2:00-6:00 PM on Wednesdays.

Lead JAVA Software Engineer sought by Gogo LLC in Chicago, IL to design and develop globally deployed Cloud-based micro-services solutions. Req BS in CS, Engg, or rltd + 8yrs exp. Req 5yrs exp w/ SQL. Req 6yrs exp w/ Spring framework. Apply @ www.jobpostingtoday.com #76597

Plan and supervise arts and crafts, indoor & outdoor play, games, sports, homework help and more.

Requirements include: –previous experience working with children –6 semester hours in education, recreation, social work or related college courses Immediate openings available for the 2019-20 school year.

Contact MJ Joyce at mjjoyce@hephzibahhome.org Equal Opportunity Employer

Tech Sales Specialist sought by Essentra: Req. BS in Economics, Mgmt or Logistics & 3 yrs exp in sales distribution in product mfg of access hrdwr products using CRM and ERP software. Less than 10% travel required. Job in Forrest Park, IL. Mail resume to JoAnn Barnes, 3123 Station Road, Erie, PA 16510.

EOE. Sr Engineer, Software sought by Gogo LLC in Chicago, IL to help define software architecture, create software designs, perform implementation and development testing.

Req BS in CS, Engg, IT, or rltd + 10yrs exp. Req 10yrs exp w/ design & dvlpmnt in Java & Java Web serv techs. Apply @ www.jobpostingtoday.com #86414

HELP WANTED

HELP WANTED

CURRENTLY RECRUITING AMERICORPS MEMBERS FOR 2019-2020

PARKING ENFORCEMENT OFFICER FOREST PARK, IL The Forest Park Police Department, seeks a Part-Time Parking Enforcement Officer. Eligible candidates will be required to pass an aptitude test and an extensive background check. Qualifications include high school diploma (or equivalent), a valid driver’s license, knowledge of basic parking regulations, and good verbal and written skills. EVENING AND OVERNIGHT HOURS ARE MANDATORY. Open until filled. 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.

Looking to make a real difference in your community? Want to gain on the job skills and experience?

Housing Forward is currently seeking individuals to serve as full-time AmeriCorps Team members for the 2019-2020 service year in Oak Park, Maywood, and LaGrange. What is AmeriCorps? What are the positions? Visit www.housingforward. org/about-us/jobs to learn more.

ENTRY LEVEL PROBATIONARY POLICE OFFICERT he Village of Oak Park Police Department is now accepting applications for the position of Entry Level Probationary Police Officer. The application process is from Wednesday, September 4 through Friday, October 11, 2019.

Applications and details on the hiring requirements for Probationary Police Officer can be found at www.iosolutions.com. The written exam will be by invitation to qualified applicants only.

Substitute Teachers Needed for River Forest Public Schools District 90. Must have Valid Illinois Teaching License; Professional Educator License with Endorsements (PEL); or, Substitute Teaching License (SUB); or Educator License with Stipulations with a Para-professional Educator Endorsement (ELS).

Required Certification: Current State of Illinois Professional Educator License or Substitute License Certificate must be registered in West Cook Region 06.

Working Conditions: Available to work on an as-needed basis for Early Childhood through 8th grade classrooms, including core subjects, art, music, physical education and special education.

Position not eligible for benefits.

Rate of Pay: $110/day for 1-20 days $120/day thereafter Application Procedure: Interested candidates should complete the on-line application available at district90.org. Please do not send hard copies of supporting documentation, i.e.; cover letters, resumes, etc. to River Forest Public Schools.

Selection Process: If your qualifications meet the District requirements, a District administrator will contact you directly for an interview and to pick up a document packet from the District office.

7776 Lake Street, River Forest, IL 60305 708-771-8282 • www.district90.org

PART-TIME CIVILIAN CALL TAKER FOREST PARK, IL The Forest Park Police Department, seeks a Part-Time Civilian Information Management Call Taker.

Eligible candidates will be required to pass an aptitude test and an extensive background check.

Qualifications include high school diploma (or equivalent), good verbal and written skills, working knowledge of the computer and Windows, ability to type accurately, a good working knowledge of the English language, the ability to treat customers and co-workers in a polite manner and the ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines. Data entry skills and experience answering telephones/operating a switchboard are preferred. EVENING AND OVERNIGHT HOURS ARE MANDATORY. Open until filled.

Applications are available at Village Hall, 517 Desplaines Ave. 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..

PARKING AND MOBILITY SERVICES MANAGER The Village of Oak Park is seeking qualified candidates for the position of Parking & Mobility Services Manager in the Development Customer Service Department.

The Manager will be responsible for ensuring that the Division provides highly responsible assistance and administrative support, with an emphasis on user-friendly customer service. The ideal applicant will have extensive knowledge of the principles and practices of parking management. The ideal applicant will have seven years of increasingly responsible public or private parking facility and operational management experience, including at least three years of administrative and supervisory responsibility. The ideal applicant should possess a Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with major course work in business, public administration or a related field. A Master’s degree, in a related field, is desirable. Applicants are encouraged to visit the Village of Oak Park’s website http://www. oak-park.us/jobs. Interested and qualified applicants must complete a Village of Oak Park application.

The first review of applications will be September 19, 2019.

SITUATION WANTED

SUBURBAN RENTALS

SUBURBAN RENTALS

GIMME WHATCHYA GOT! Indep. Jack-of-All-Trades 10+ yrs financial mgmt. Experienced with Quickbooks. Superior Excel & Word skills. Yrs of experience designing & managing databases including church mgmt (Realm).. Skilled with SurveyMonkey, Constant Contact & Mailchimp. Tech experience + Squarespace and Wordpress design. 10-20 hours. $16.50/hr. minimum. Given the breadth of my experience and flexibility, you’ll find I’m worth much more than that! ronelling@comcast.net Subject “Let’s Talk”

BERWYN: 2 BR,gorgeous Apt w/ granite kitchen countr top. All appls.

HT/WTR inc. Security cams. $1100 + $1500 sec. Close to Shpng Mall 708-699-8916

OAK PARK ROOSEVELT/OAK PARK AVE CORRIDOR 2 BR 4 ROOMS. Close to Blue Line. Onsite Laundry. Parking, Heat, Water included. $1175/month 708-383-9223

SUBURBAN REAL ESTATE NEW CONCEPT FOR MAYWOOD

FOREST PARK 1 BR Newly remodeled, unique & cozy 1 BR apartment in 2 flat. Close to El, library, community center and downtown Forest Park shopping. $695. Call 708-310-0290.

FOREST PARK 2ND FLR 1 BR FOR RENT Clean, freshly painted, great location. Walk to El, restaurants and stores. Quiet building. Reasonable rent. Call Francis 708-383-8574.

GIANT BALCONY & HEATED GARAGE

In this quiet residential neighborhood

FOREST PARK 1 BR $1200/MONTH

(2 blks W of 1st Ave & 1 blk N of Madison)

ARISTON REALTY 708.771.5000

902 S. 3RD AVENUE Reserve your own affordable 2 or 3 BR condo unit of 1000+ sq ft of living space being built on this historic site. You’ll benefit from a unique 12-year tax freeze and lower monthly living expenses from energy saving systems/appliances, and you can help design your own individual unit. Plans also include building 5 new townhomes onsite.

For details Call 708-383-9223.

LIKE A GREAT VINTAGE WINE OAK PARK 3 BR, 1.5 BA

Large apartment, high ceilings, hardwood floors, large yard space, garage incl.

$2000 PER MONTH ARISTON REALTY 708.771.5000

SUBURBAN RENTALS

M&M property management, inc.

708-386-7355 • www.mmpropmgt.com 649 Madison Street, Oak Park Contact us for a complete list of available rentals throughout Oak Park and Forest Park.

Apartment listings updated daily at:

Find your new apartment this Saturday from 10 am – 4pm at 35 Chicago Avenue.

Or call us toll free at 1-833-440-0665 for an appointment.

SELLING YOUR HOME BY OWNER?

Call Us For Advertising Rates! 708/613-3333

OAK PARK GARDEN 2BR 729 HIGHLAND Oak Park Garden Apartment in quiet 3 flat, 2BR, LR, DR, KIT, BATH , hardwood floors, private pkg, freshly decorated, heat/water incl. walk to Blue Line and Longfellow School. $1350 Contact Ken@ 847-561-2699

ROOMS FOR RENT AUSTIN CLEAN ROOM With fridge, micro.

Nr Oak Park, Super Walmart, Food 4 Less, bus, & Metra. $116/wk and up.

773-637-5957 Large Sunny Room with fridge & microwave. Near Green line, bus, Oak Park, 24 hour desk, parking lot. $101.00 week & up.

New Mgmt.

773-378-8888

OFFICE SPACE FOR RENT FOREST PARK OFFICE/STORE AVAILABLE FOR LEASE 1350 SF w/ AC & MADISON STREET EXPOSURE. 7607 Madison Street. Village parking lot next door. Bright, clean office. Great Madison Street exposure! Call Francis 708-383-8574.

THERAPY OFFICES FOR RENT Therapy offices for rent in north Oak Park. Rehabbed building. Nicely furnished. Flexible leasing. Free parking; Free wifi; Secure building; Friendly colleagues providing referrals. Shared Waiting room; optional Conference room. Call or email with questions. Shown on Sundays.

Lee 708.383.0729 drlmadden@ameritech.net

20

Forest Park Review, September 11, 2019

FORESTPARKREVIEW.COM

CLASSIFIED GARAGE/YARD SALES Berwyn

FLEA MARKET/ CRAFT FAIR TRINITY COMMUNITY CHURCH 7022 RIVERSIDE DR SAT 9/10 9AM-2PM Vendors, lunch and bake sale. $1.00 Hot Dogs!

708-484-1818

Brookfield

GARAGE SALE 4624 DUBOIS FRI 9/13 9AM TO 4PM SAT 9/14 9AM TO 2PM Priced to Sell!.

Brookfield

MULTI FAMILY GARAGE SALE 3634 MORTON AVE SAT 9/14 9AM TO 3PM SUN 9/15 9AM TO 2PM

Cleaning out the house sale, multi family, offering American girl dolls/ accessories, some tools, knick knacks, clothes, mens/womens, kids, jackets, shoes and much, much more.

Forest Park

2 – GARAGE SALES 1000 S. THOMAS/ HANNAH ALLEY FRI 9/13 & SAT 9/14 9AM TO 4PM

Entertainment ctr, 2 chair patio set, Grandmothers clock, sump pump, bread-maker, microwave, sewing machine, metal shelving, new folding desk table, dog cage, bike, wall decor, Navajo sand-art, holiday items, linens, kid’s stuff, lots of hand tools/hardware, some fishing gear, trolling motor, garden, office, home goods, CDs, DVDs, books, clothes ladies 6-14, men’s L/XL, some jewelry, travel golf bag, so much more!

North Riverside

GARAGE SALE 2506 S KEYSTONE SAT 9/14 & SUN 9/15 9:30AM TO 3PM

Women’s clothing, sizes 16-18.

Beautiful winter coats, holiday dĂŠcor, many household items, linens. Lots of gardening items. Small chests of drawers and much more!

Cash only.

Oak Park

FUN CONDO FAMILY GARAGE SALE! 444 WASHINGTON ST (in rear)

SAT 9/14 9AM TO 2PM

Something for everyone! Free items with purchase. Prizes too! Rain date Sunday 9/15.

River Forest

YARD SALE 718 CLINTON PLACE SAT 9/14 9AM TO NOON

Sofa, chairs, tables, skateboard ramp & rail, homegoods,and nice men’s & women’s clothing NO EARLY BIRDS

ITEMS FOR SALE CERTIFIED WIND SURFER Full Size, with cover and sail $100.00.

WATER SKIS $10.00 708-488-8755 CHINESE SILK JACKET Red with pattern of white and gold, brought directly from China.

708-848-8755 LEATHER SOFA FOR SALE A beautiful, almost new, dark brown, 3 seater sofa for $1000.00 (originally $4500). Call (708) 524-0291 for evening appt. only.

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

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

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

524-1030

AIR CONDITIONING & HEATING AIR CONDITIONING AND APPLIANCE EXPERT Air Conditioning Automotive A/C Refrigerators Ranges • Ovens Washer • Dryers Rodding Sewers Lic/Bonded 25 yrs experience

FREE SERVICE CALL WITH REPAIR AND SENIOR/VETERAN DISCOUNT.

708-785-2619 or 773-585-5000

CEMENT

ELECTRICAL

ELECTRICAL Ceiling Fans Installed

HANDYMAN

HANDYMAN

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 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.

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

773-732-2263 Ask for John

HAULING

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

cat calls

Oak Park’s Original Pet Care Service – Since 1986

(708) 613-3333 • FAX: (708) 467-9066 • E-MAIL: CLASSIFIEDS@FORESTPARKREVIEW.COM

ELECTRICAL

FOUR SEASONS ELECTRIC

★

★

Cool your Home with Ceiling Fans!

Installing Ceiling Fans Rewiring Old Houses Service Upgrades

Reasonable Pricing & Free Estimates

• No Job Too Big or Too Small • Lic * Bonded * Ins * 24 hrs

708-445-0447

FLOORS KLIS FLOORING INC.

New hardwood flooring installation & pergo. Sanding, re-finishing, staining. Low prices, insured.

Call: 773-671-4996 www.klisflooring.com

GARAGE/ GARAGE DOOR

BASEMENT CLEANING

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

LANDSCAPING BRUCE LAWN SERVICE

Our 73rd Year

Fall Yard Clean-Up Slit Seeding Bush Trimming Fall Leaf Clean-Up Senior Discount Snow Removal

Garage Doors &

Smart Door Openers

Sales & Service

brucelawns.com

Free Estimates

(708) 652-9415 www.forestdoor.com

708-243-0571

NEIGHBORHOOD CLEAN UP

Evergreen trimming & more.

Hand weed removal.

Clean-ups.

Call 24 hrs.

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

708-447-1762

FREE ESTIMATES Excellent References No Job Too Small

PAINTING & DECORATING

708-488-9411

Attention! Homeimprovement pros!

Reach the people making decisions. Advertise here.

Call 708/613-3342

CEMENT Residential Commercial Industrial Licensed Bonded Insured Free Estimates ¡ Veteran Owned

Drives Walks Patios Stamped Concrete Curbs/Gutters Garage Floors Foundations Water Control / Management

devegaconcrete.com ¡ 708-945-9001

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 Â&#x2021; )281'$7,216 Â&#x2021; 3$7,26 67(36 Â&#x2021; &85% *877(56 Â&#x2021; 6,'(:$/.6 612: 3/2:,1* Â&#x2021; 67$03(' &2/25(' $**5(*$7( &21&5(7( FREE ESTIMATES LICENSED, BONDED & INSURED

Mikeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Home Repair Drywall H Painting H Tile Plumbing H Electric H Floors Windows H Doors H Siding Ask Us What We Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t Do

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

708.749.0011

708-296-2060

Wednesday Classified 3 Great Papers, 6 Communities To place an ad, call: 708/613-3333

PLUMBING

PLUMBING

A-All American

Plumbing & Sewer Service FREE ESTIMATES Service in 1 Hour in Most Cases

All Work Guaranteed Lowest Prices Guaranteed FREE Video Inspection with Sewer Rodding /P +PC 5PP -BSHF t /P +PC 5PP 4NBMM Family Owned & Operated

t Lic. #0967

Map It!

PUBLIC NOTICES

Public Notice: Your right to know PublicNoticeIllinois.com

LEGAL NOTICE PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a public hearing will be held by the Zoning Board of Appeals of the Village of Oak Park on Wednesday, October 2, 2019 at 7:00 p.m. in the Council Chambers of the Village Hall, 123 Madison St., Oak Park, Illinois on the following matter: Cal. No. 02-19-Z: 823 Woodbine Avenue, Beth Burdin Property Index Number: 16-06-303-023-0000 The Applicant Beth Burdin seeks variances from Section 9.4 (Table 9-1: Permitted Encroachments Into Required Setbacks) and Section 9.3 (A) (3) of the Oak Park Zoning Ordinance which regulate certain accessory structures permitted in required setbacks, to permit the construction of off-street parking in the required front yard setback at the premises commonly known as 823 Woodbine Avenue, Oak Park, Illinois.

Those property owners within 300 feet of the Subject Property and those interested parties persons with a special interest beyond that of the general public (â&#x20AC;&#x153;Interested Partiesâ&#x20AC;?) wishing to cross-examine witnesses must complete and file an appearance with original signatures with the Village Clerk no later than 5:00 PM on the business day preceding the public hearing.

All papers in connection with the above matter are on file at the Village of Oak Park and available for examination by interested parties by contacting the Zoning Administrator at 708.358.5449.

The Zoning Board of Appeals may continue the hearing to another date without further notice by public announcement at the hearing setting forth the time and place thereof.

DATED AT OAK PARK, ILLINOIS, this 11th Day of September, 2019 Published in Wednesday Journal 9/11/2019

PUBLIC NOTICE AVISO: PACIENTES DE MAMOGRAFĂ?A DEL HOSPITAL WESTLAKE Como ya no estamos brindando atenciĂłn a nuestros pacientes, si necesita solicitar estudios previos, envĂ­e las solicitudes por fax al 708-763-2020 o comunĂ­quese con 708-763-4728 para obtener ayuda.

Gracias NOTICE: WESTLAKE HOSPITAL MAMMOGRAPHY PATIENTS As we are no longer providing care to our patients, should you need to request prior studies, please fax requests to 708-763-2020 or contact 708-763-4728 for assistance.

Thank you Published in Wednesday Journal Forest Park Review RB Landmark 9/11, 9/18, 9/25/2019

PUBLIC NOTICES PUBLIC NOTICE Notice is hereby given, pursuant to â&#x20AC;&#x153;An Act in relation to the use of an Assumed Business Name in the conduct or transaction of Business in the State,â&#x20AC;? as amended, that a certification was registered by the undersigned with the County Clerk of Cook County.

Registration Number: Y19001984 on AUGUST 13, 2019 Under the Assumed Business Name of MEND WELL(NESS) with the business located at: 1118 LYMAN AVE, OAK PARK, IL 60304. The true and real full name(s) and residence address of the owner(s)/partner(s) is: IRENE WALTERS 1118 LYMAN AVE OAK PARK, IL 60304.

Published in Wednesday Journal 8/28, 9/4, 9/11/2019

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING VILLAGE OF BROOKFIELD PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION SEPTEMBER 26th, 2019 at 7:00 PM NOTICE is hereby given that the Village of Brookfield Planning and Zoning Commission will conduct a public hearing on Thursday, September 26th at 7:00 p.m. in the Edward Barcal Hall located at 8820 Brookfield Avenue, Brookfield, Illinois for the purpose of considering a request for a final planned development application regarding a property located at 3609 Grand Boulevard and 3541 Park Avenue, Brookfield, Illinois 60513 (PINs 15-34-401-016-0000; 15-34-401017-0000; 15-34-401-018-0000; 15-34-401-019-0000; 15-34-401020-0000; 15-34-401-021-0000; 15-34-411-001-0000).

Legal Description: Lots 38, 39, 40, 41, 43, 43, 44, 45 and 46 in Block 12 together with Lots 25, 26, 27, 28, 29 and 30 in block 6 in Grossdale, being a subdivision of the southeast Âź of Section 34, Township 39 North, Range 1 2 east of the Third Principal Meridian in Cook County, Illinois.

The public is invited to attend the public hearing and present oral and/ or written comments.

The application including the proposed final development may be viewed at the Village of Brookfield Village Hall during normal business hours. Written comments may be provided prior to the public hearing to: Village of Brookfield, Planning and Zoning Commission c/o Elyse Vukelich, 8820 Brookfield Avenue, Brookfield, IL 60513. Please reference PZC Case 19-06.

Individuals with disabilities requiring a reasonable accommodation in order to participate in any meeting should contact the Village of Brookfield (708) 485-7344 prior to the meeting. Wheelchair access is available through the front (South) entrance of Village Hall.

By the Order of Chuck Grund, Planning and Zoning Commission Chairman.

Published in RB Landmark 9/11/2019

G AR

SALAEGE S

GO TO FORESTPARKREVIEW.COM/GARAGESALES TODAY! or call mary ellen at 708.613.3342 to place an ad

P

PB

Forest Park Review, September 11, 2019

FORESTPARKREVIEW.COM

CLASSIFIED

21

(708) 613-3333 • FAX: (708) 467-9066 • E-MAIL: CLASSIFIEDS@FORESTPARKREVIEW.COM

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 ForestParkReview.com | PublicNoticeIllinois.com

Forest Park Review, September 11, 2019

FORESTPARKREVIEW.COM

REAL ESTATE FOR SALE

REAL ESTATE FOR SALE

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT CHANCERY DIVISION PHH MORTGAGE CORPORATION Plaintiff, -v.J. MICHAEL BRUNO, BARBARA BEST, CODY STEPHEN BEST, UNKNOWN OWNERS AND NONRECORD CLAIMANTS Defendants 2018CH15199 812 CIRCLE AVE. FOREST PARK, IL 60130 NOTICE OF SALE PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above cause on July 1, 2019, an agent for The Judicial Sales Corporation, will at 10:30 AM on October 3, 2019, at The Judicial Sales Corporation, One South Wacker Drive, CHICAGO, IL, 60606, sell at a public sale to the highest bidder, as set forth below, the following described real estate: Commonly known as 812 CIRCLE AVE., FOREST PARK, IL 60130 Property Index No. 15-13-405-0110000 The real estate is improved with a single family residence.

Sale terms: 25% down of the highest bid by certified funds at the close of the sale payable to The Judicial Sales Corporation. No third party checks will be accepted. The balance, including the Judicial Sale fee for the Abandoned Residential Property Municipality Relief Fund, which is calculated on residential real estate at the rate of $1 for each $1,000 or fraction thereof of the amount paid by the purchaser not to exceed $300, in certified funds/ or wire transfer, is due within twenty-four (24) hours. No fee shall be paid by the mortgagee acquiring the residential real estate pursuant to its credit bid at the sale or by any mortgagee, judgment creditor, or other lienor acquiring the residential real estate whose rights in and to the residential real estate arose prior to the sale. The subject property is subject to general real estate taxes, special assessments, or special taxes levied against said real estate and is offered for sale without any representation as to quality or quantity of title and without recourse to Plaintiff and in “AS IS” condition. The sale is further subject to confirmation by the court.

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

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

If this property is a condominium unit, the purchaser of the unit at the foreclosure sale, other than a mortgagee, shall pay the assessments and the legal fees required

by The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/9(g)(1) and (g)(4).

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

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

For information, examine the court file, 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) 236SALE 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. 14-18-13204 Attorney ARDC No. 00468002 Attorney Code. 21762 Case Number: 2018CH15199 TJSC#: 39-4227 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

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REAL ESTATE FOR SALE that purpose.

Case # 2018CH15199 I3129648 IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT CHANCERY DIVISION DITECH FINANCIAL LLC F/K/A GREEN TREE SERVICING LLC Plaintiff, -v.TANISHA FLORENCE, AS INDEPENDENT ADMINISTRATOR OF THE ESTATE OF CARL CONNER, TANISHA CONNER A/K/A TANISHA FLORENCE, CARLA CONNER, CAILA FLORENCE CONNER, CARNELL CONNER, PORTFOLIO RECOVERY ASSOCIATES, L.L.C., UNKNOWN HEIRS AND LEGATEES OF CARL L. CONNER, UNKNOWN OWNERS AND NONRECORD CLAIMANTS Defendants 2018CH16094 826 CIRCLE AVE FOREST PARK, IL 60130 NOTICE OF SALE PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above cause on July 11, 2019, an agent for The Judicial Sales Corporation, will at 10:30 AM on October 15, 2019, at The Judicial Sales Corporation, One South Wacker Drive, CHICAGO, IL, 60606, sell at a public sale to the highest bidder, as set forth below, the following described real estate: Commonly known as 826 CIRCLE AVE, FOREST PARK, IL 60130 Property Index No. 15-13-405-0160000 The real estate is improved with a residence.

Sale terms: 25% down of the highest bid by certified funds at the close of the sale payable to The Judicial Sales Corporation. No third party checks will be accepted. The balance, including the Judicial Sale fee for the Abandoned Residential Property Municipality Relief Fund, which is calculated on residential real estate at the rate of $1 for each $1,000 or fraction thereof of the amount paid by the purchaser not to exceed $300, in certified funds/ or wire transfer, is due within twenty-four (24) hours. No fee shall be paid by the mortgagee acquiring the residential real estate pursuant to its credit bid at the sale or by any mortgagee, judgment creditor, or other lienor acquiring the residential real estate whose rights in and to the residential real estate arose prior to the sale. 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

REAL ESTATE FOR SALE 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(g1).

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

For information, examine the court file, 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) 236SALE 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. 14-18-13776 Attorney ARDC No. 00468002 Attorney Code. 21762 Case Number: 2018CH16094 TJSC#: 39-4444 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 # 2018CH16094 I3130529 IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT CHANCERY DIVISION BYLINE BANK, AS SUCCESSOR IN INTEREST TO RIDGESTONE BANK Plaintiff, -v.107 N. OAK PARK, LLC, AN ILLINOIS LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY, AB DISTRIBUTORS, INC., AN ILLINOIS CORPORATION, OAK PARK NUEVA ERA, INC., D/B/A ALTIRO, AN ILLINOIS CORPORATION, SKSM INC., AN ILLINOIS CORPORATION, RSS AMES, LLC, AN IOWA LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY, RSS BOONE, LLC, AN IOWA LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY, RSS KT CL, LLC, AN IOWA LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY, RSS IOWA SC, LLC, AN IOWA LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY, CHICAGO TITLE LAND TRUST COMPANY, AS TRUSTEE UNDER TRUST AGREEMENT DATED DECEMBER 18, 2006 AND KNOWN AS TRUST NUMBER 8002347911, CELTIC BANK CORPORATION, A UTAH STATE BANK, AVENUE LAKE CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION, AN ILLINOIS CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION, AJAY A. BHATIA , AN INDIVIDUAL, SONIA A. BHATIA, AN INDIVIDUAL, UNKNOWN OWNERS AND NON-RECORD CLAIMANTS Defendants

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22

Forest Park Review, September 11, 2019

FORESTPARKREVIEW.COM

CLASSIFIED

(708) 613-3333 • FAX: (708) 467-9066 • E-MAIL: CLASSIFIEDS@FORESTPARKREVIEW.COM

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 ForestParkReview.com | PublicNoticeIllinois.com REAL ESTATE FOR SALE

REAL ESTATE FOR SALE

REAL ESTATE FOR SALE

REAL ESTATE FOR SALE

REAL ESTATE FOR SALE

REAL ESTATE FOR SALE

REAL ESTATE FOR SALE

2018 CH 05979 107 N. OAK PARK AVENUE, UNIT 107C OAK PARK, IL 60301 NOTICE OF SALE PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above cause on August 13, 2019, an agent for The Judicial Sales Corporation, will at 10:30 AM on September 30, 2019, at The Judicial Sales Corporation, One South Wacker Drive, CHICAGO, IL, 60606, sell at a public sale to the highest bidder, as set forth below, the following described real estate: Commonly known as 107 N. OAK PARK AVENUE, UNIT 107C, OAK PARK, IL 60301 Property Index No. 16-07-129-0361003 The real estate is improved with a commercial property.

The judgment amount was $1,232,999.44.

Sale terms: 25% down of the highest bid by certified funds at the close of the sale payable to The Judicial Sales Corporation. No third party checks will be accepted. The balance, including the Judicial Sale fee for the Abandoned Residential Property Municipality Relief Fund, which is calculated on residential real estate at the rate of $1 for each $1,000 or fraction thereof of the amount paid by the purchaser not to exceed $300, in certified funds/ or wire transfer, is due within twenty-four (24) hours. No fee shall be paid by the mortgagee acquiring the residential real estate pursuant to its credit bid at the sale or by any mortgagee, judgment creditor, or other lienor acquiring the residential real estate whose rights in and to the residential real estate arose prior to the sale. The subject property is

subject to general real estate taxes, special assessments, or special taxes levied against said real estate and is offered for sale without any representation as to quality or quantity of title and without recourse to Plaintiff and in “AS IS” condition. The sale is further subject to confirmation by the court.

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

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

If this property is a condominium unit, the purchaser of the unit at the foreclosure sale, other than a mortgagee, shall pay the assessments and the legal fees required

by The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/9(g)(1) and (g)(4).

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

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

Cook County and the same identification for sales held at other county venues where The Judicial Sales Corporation conducts foreclosure sales.

For information, Michael D. Leifman, CHUHAK & TECSON, P.C. Plaintiff’s Attorneys, 30 S. WACKER DRIVE, STE. 2600, CHICAGO, IL, 60606 (312) 444-9300. Please refer to file number 19918-64905.

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

Michael D. Leifman CHUHAK & TECSON, P.C. 30 S. WACKER DRIVE, STE. 2600 CHICAGO IL, 60606 312-444-9300 E-Mail: mleifman@chuhak.com Attorney File No. 19918-64905 Attorney Code. 70693 Case Number: 2018 CH 05979 TJSC#: 39-5384 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 # 2018 CH 05979 I3130782

UNKNOWN OWNERS AND NONRECORD CLAIMANTS Defendants 18 CH 12274 237 WEST WASHINGTON BOULEVARD, UNIT 1B OAK PARK, IL 60302 NOTICE OF SALE PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above cause on May 6, 2019, an agent for The Judicial Sales Corporation, will at 10:30 AM on October 16, 2019, at The Judicial Sales Corporation, One South Wacker Drive, CHICAGO, IL, 60606, sell at a public sale to the highest bidder, as set forth below, the following described real estate: Commonly known as 237 WEST WASHINGTON BOULEVARD, UNIT 1B, OAK PARK, IL 60302 Property Index No. 16-08-319-0461005 The real estate is improved with a yellow brick, three story condominium with no garage.

Sale terms: 25% down of the highest bid by certified funds at the close of the sale payable to The Judicial Sales Corporation. No third party checks will be accepted. The balance, including the Judicial Sale fee for the Abandoned Residential Property Municipality Relief Fund, which is calculated on residential real estate at the rate of $1 for each $1,000 or fraction thereof of the amount paid by the purchaser not to exceed $300, in certified funds/ or wire transfer, is due within twenty-four (24) hours. No fee shall be paid by the mortgagee acquiring the residential real estate pursuant to its credit bid at the sale or by any mortgagee, judgment creditor, or other lienor acquiring the residential real estate whose rights in and to the

residential real estate arose prior to the sale. The subject property is subject to general real estate taxes, special assessments, or special taxes levied against said real estate and is offered for sale without any representation as to quality or quantity of title and without recourse to Plaintiff and in “AS IS” condition. The sale is further subject to confirmation by the court.

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

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

If this property is a condominium unit, the purchaser of the unit at the foreclosure sale, other than a mortgagee, shall pay the assessments and the legal fees required

by The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/9(g)(1) and (g)(4).

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

IF YOU ARE THE MORTGAGOR (HOMEOWNER), YOU HAVE THE RIGHT TO REMAIN IN POSSESSION FOR 30 DAYS AFTER ENTRY OF AN ORDER OF POSSESSION, IN ACCORDANCE WITH SECTION 15-1701(C) OF THE ILLINOIS MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE LAW. You will need a photo identification issued by a government agency (driver’s license, passport, etc.) in

order to gain entry into our building and the foreclosure sale room in Cook County and the same identification for sales held at other county venues where The Judicial Sales Corporation conducts foreclosure sales.

MCCALLA RAYMER LEIBERT PIERCE, LLC Plaintiff’s Attorneys, One North Dearborn Street, Suite 1200, Chicago, IL, 60602. Tel No. (312) 346-9088.

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

MCCALLA RAYMER LEIBERT PIERCE, LLC One North Dearborn Street, Suite 1200 Chicago IL, 60602 312-346-9088 E-Mail: pleadings@mccalla.com Attorney File No. 267782 Attorney ARDC No. 61256 Attorney Code. 61256 Case Number: 18 CH 12274 TJSC#: 39-3072 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 # 18 CH 12274 I3130604

vs.

SAR DANKER; CORNERSTONE CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION; CITY OF OAK PARK; UNKNOWN TENANTS; UNKNOWN OWNERS AND NONRECORD CLAIMANTS; Defendants, 18 CH 8348 NOTICE OF SALE PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above entitled cause Intercounty Judicial Sales Corporation will on Wednesday, October 16, 2019 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. 16-18-226-036-1012.

Commonly known as 846 WESLEY AVE., APT 2, OAK PARK, IL 60304.

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

For information call Mr. Ira T. Nevel at Plaintiff’s Attorney, Law Offices of Ira T. Nevel, 175 North Franklin Street, Chicago, Illinois 60606. (312) 357-1125. 18-01980 INTERCOUNTY JUDICIAL SALES CORPORATION Selling Officer, (312) 444-1122 I3131033

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT CHANCERY DIVISION BAYVIEW LOAN SERVICING, LLC Plaintiff, -v.EVELYN CULBERSON, TERRA COTTA CONDOMINIUM,

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT CHANCERY DIVISION NEW RESIDENTIAL MORTGAGE LLC; Plaintiff,

local employees = happy employees!

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P

Forest Park Review, September 11, 2019

INC., REALTOR

23

(708) 366-8989 7342 MADISON ST, FOREST PARK, ILLINOIS 60130

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317 ELGIN

631 MARENGO

This is a perfect starter home or a great option for down sizing! A sprawling living room with open views of the South, West, and North allow for sunshine to pour into the room.

Two very large bedrooms and a third cozy bedroom for the little one or an office! Oak Hardwood floors running through the home up to the carpeted living room. Large open basement ready for your finishing touches. The lot is extra wide measuring out at 40 feet versus a standard 25. Plenty of grass and room to play. Possible second floor expansion at this price! .........................................................................................$295,000

2,450 S.F. OF LUXURY! Center unit! 4 floors of living! Enormous master with a soaking tub and enclosed shower, walk in closet, and a private balcony. 2nd fl. offers 2 additional large bedrooms, walk in closet, storage, and full bath. 1st fl is all oak flooring, living room with a fireplace and eating area, and an eat in kitchen.

Bedroom #4 is located in the fully finished basement with a family room area, and full bathroom. 1 space garage. This is the LARGEST TOWNHOME on the market IN FOREST PARK!! ...............................$389,000

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Bright two bed two bath on 4th. fl. with balcony in gated community w 24 hr. security guard. Ceramic tile fl. in kit and dinette.

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D L O S

Choose your home adventure with this move in ready American four square style home in the heart of Forest Park! The traditional layout will work for many living situations and provides an ideal space to raise a growing family, host an Airbnb or allow extended family to spend the night.Walk in and see the attention to detail for yourself featuring top quality finishes and unbeatable walkability to downtown Forest Park and Oak Park. Every single detail is done from the new Pella windows to the 4 enormous bedrooms, this place is move-in-ready! The spacious eat in kitchen has 42" cabinets, granite counter tops, beautiful ss appliances and ample counter space. Walk up the extra wide staircase to a perfectly designed suite of bedrooms. The master bedroom retreat has sound proof windows, a huge walk in closet and relaxing rain shower for a spa like experience.2nd floor laundry, a 1st floor bonus room and a waterproof basement provide all of the extra amenities needed to call 631 home. ..............................................................................................................$499,000

DER T N U RAC T N O C

First floor apartment completely remodeled with 2 bedrooms and duplex 3rd. bedroom and half bath and family room in the basement. Second floor is two bedrooms and one bath. Outside parking for 4 cars. Projected rent for 1st floor between ........................................................................... $1375 & $1450

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24

Forest Park Review, September 11, 2019

Building the bank you deserve.

Community Bank of Oak Park River Forest is now Byline Bank.

New name. Same local team committed to you. Together we bring you our stronger, combined bank to deliver and expand the products and services you value while remaining a neighborhood bank, devoted to the community.

To learn more visit: bylinebank.com/welcome-cboprf

Š2019 Byline Bank. Member FDIC. Community Bank of Oak Park River Forest has merged into Byline Bank.

Special Advertising Section

Celebrate Hispanic Heritage

Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Celebrating the rich and diverse Latinx community in Forest Park, in partnership with the Forest Park Diversity Commission

September 11, 2019

B1

Fall 2019

B2

Celebrate Hispanic Heritage

September 11, 2019

Deeply Rooted The Forest Park Review has been deeply rooted in Forest Park for over 100 years. We are honored to publish our first-ever Hispanic Heritage month special issue celebrating the rich and diverse Latinx community in Forest Park, in partnership with the Forest Park Diversity Commission. Thank you to our advertising partners who made this possible, and who have shared their stories of pride in their culture and identity. We appreciate their time and thoughtfulness and the value of their marketing dollars. Please read their stories and support their efforts. A very special thank you to Tom Holmes, our feature writer for interviewing our advertising partners and

DAWN FERENCAK

telling their compelling stories. Thank you to Natalie Johnson for coordinating this section and to Andy Mead for his design work. The Forest Park Review grows and strengthens the community by telling compelling stories about the people who make this village so special and unique. We like doing this good work and want to publish more special sections like this one. Please share your feedback and your ideas for new community special sections with me at dawn@oakpark. com or call me anytime at 708/613-3329.

Sincerely,

Staff

Feature WriterTom Holmes IT and Digital Developer Mike Risher Advertising Design/Production Manager Andrew Mead Staff Photographer Alexa Rogals Advertising Director Dawn Ferencak Display Advertising Sales Marc Stopeck Client Engagement Specialist Natalie Johnson Inside Sales Representative Mary Ellen Nelligan Circulation Manager Jill Wagner Distribution Coordinator Wakeelah Cocroft-Aldridge Chairman Emeritus Robert K. Downs Editor and Publisher Dan Haley Associate Publisher Dawn Ferencak Business Manager Joyce Minich

Dawn Ferencak, Associate Publisher

Welcome to Hispanic Heritage

By Tom Holmes

T

he Forest Park Diversity Commission held what they considered to be a successful LGBTQ Pride event in Constitution Court on June 22. When the group discussed what to do next to pursue their mission of affirming diversity in town, they decided to promote and celebrate the Hispanic heritage of the many residents who live here.

TOM HOLMES

The commission, established in 2016, is still at the stage where they are experimenting with different ways to fulfill the mandate given to them by the village, and so they decided to try sponsoring a longer celebration beginning on Sep. 15 which they are calling Hispanic Heritage Month.

September 15 was chosen as the starting point for the celebration because it is the anniversary of independence of

five Latin American countries: Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua. All declared independence in 1821. In addition, Mexico, Chile and Belize celebrate their independence days on September 16, September 18, and September 21, respectively.

Businesses in town will be encouraged to contribute to the celebration by putting up Hispanic Heritage posters and coming up with creative ways their businesses can affirm the contributions of our Latinx neighbors who comprise one out of every ten residents in Forest Park.

The insert that follows this introduction is an example of how businesses, elected officials and the schools are contributing to the celebration.

The Village of Forest Park is also working on a Hispanic Heritage Month Celebration which will take place on October 5th, 2pm - 11pm.

According to the Village of Forest Park website, the Diversity Commission “meets on the 1st Thursday of the Month at 7:00 pm: 9 members – 3 year term: Established in 2016, the Diversity Commission will be a resource for

experience and information on diversity issues and serve in an advisory capacity to the Mayor and Village Council.

They shall help to enrich the social and intellectual life of all residents through educational and social programs. They shall facilitate awareness and promote the understanding and acceptance of all people, especially those who have different racial, religious, and ethnic backgrounds, sexual preferences, physical limitations, gender, educational, and economic levels. They may invite and enlist the cooperation of racial, religious and ethnic groups, community organizations, fraternal and benevolent societies, veteran’s organizations, professional and technical organizations and other groups to assist in their mission.

Email diversity@forestpark.net with questions.

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Special Advertising Section Celebrate Hispanic Heritage

September 11, 2019

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100% Puerto Rican

By Tom Holmes

F

orest Park resident Teresa Molina is proud to self-identify as being 100% Puerto Rican.

Living on the island--the status of which is Estado Libre Asociado or Associated Free State—for the first four years of her life, the first language she learned was Spanish and the culture in which she is most deeply rooted is that of Puerto Rico.

She loves Puerto Rican food—lechon asado, arroz y gandules, platonos maduros, and bread still warm purchased at the local panaderia. She loves Puerto Rican music, and she loves the spirit of the island’s people.

She said, “Except for baseball—the stadium in San Juan is named after Roberto Clemente—Puerto Ricans are less competitive than people around here. Their Caribbean lifestyle is more laid back, and they value family and cooperation which was revealed in the way they helped each other after Hurricane Maria.

She is also proud of the fact that last month she was appointed by State

Supreme Court Justice Anne Burke to be a Cook County Judge, filling the vacancy left by James McCarthy.

Molina has been slated by the Democratic Party to run for a full term on the bench in the March 17 election.

on it. I believe that the law should be applied fairly to everyone. When I make a ruling, one side is not going to like it, but I want them to walk out of the courtroom knowing that they got a fair trial based on the facts.”

I practiced law here for 18 years,” she explained, “and not once did I step in front of a Latina judge. The judiciary should represent the diversity in the communities they serve.

Her honor explained how she can be an unbiased judge while being so firmly rooted in her particular culture by saying, “When I put on that black robe, there is no Puerto Rican flag

So, like the statue of the blindfolded Lady Justice, Molina strives to be colorblind when she’s on the bench.

But at the time she said that being the first Puerto Rican woman to serve as a

judge in Cook County, she has become a pioneer and a role model.

“I practiced law here for 18 years,” she explained, “and not once did I step in front of a Latina judge. The judiciary should represent the diversity in the communities they serve.

“I’m really excited to be a role model for young LatinX lawyers, especially for women. The next Latina lawyer who in front of me will see someone who looks like her on the one hand and who on the other hand is a competent and fair judge.”

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Celebrate Hispanic Heritage

September 11, 2019

P R O F I L E

P A T H W A Y S P R O F I C I E N C Y

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PROVISO TOWNSHIP

H I G H SCHOOLS

2018-2019

VISION

Through expectations of excellence and by providing equitable educational opportunities to empower each student, our graduates are prepared for college, careers and to serve as contributing members of a dynamic global society.

MOTTO

ONE TEAM, ONE GOAL, ONE PROVISO.

A unifying framework through which stakeholders collaboratively engage to ensure a world-class education and services that empower all members of the Proviso community.

THE POWER OF TWO:: GO GOALS OAL ALS ALS LS AND GUIDING PR PRINCIPLES RINCIPL PLE PL LES ES ENHANCE

EMPOWER

Academic Achievement

ENSURE

Students, Families,& Communities

1:1

Effective and Efficient Operations

$62m

EQUITY

3.9/4.0

EMPOWERMENT

EXCELLENCE

Selected Points of Pride Signed school/parent compacts:

FY19: 2,326 Prior Years: 0

Graduated 1st Parent Leadership Cohort

Increased Programs of Study

3 to 23

More than doubled number of students graduating with Seal of Biliteracy

Invested

Bond Rating Upgraded to A+

17% Increase in

AP & IB Courses

$1.3+ million Proviso West Fieldhouse

PMSA Designated

2018 National Blue Ribbon School of Excellence

Proviso East in its 2nd year of Illinois Competency-Based Graduation Requirement Pilot

Approved Proviso West Transformation Plan

Special Advertising Section Celebrate Hispanic Heritage

September 11, 2019

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Proviso East - fair and equitable to all our students

By Tom Holmes

W

hen the cornerstone for Proviso East High School on First Ave. in Maywood was laid in 1911, the population it served was predominantly white. But as demographics changed after World War II and Africans moved from the city to the suburbs, the school evolved in a mostly black place of learning, and that is the mental picture many Forest Park residents have of Proviso East.

But without a lot of fanfare, the demographics of the high school just west of the Desplaines River have evolved to the point where 54.1% of the students are now Hispanic, 41% are black and only 2.1% are white.

Nicole Howard, the Assistant Superintendent for Academics at Proviso Township High School District 209 said that the D209 administration is

constantly auditing the curriculum to see if it meets the needs of the students.

diligently over the years, and continue to work, to integrate events and issues related to African American and Latino history throughout the curriculum. There is always room for improvement and we do consider suggestions and recommendations from stakeholders as we continue to assess the impact and effectiveness of our curricula.”

PTHS D209 values community input and is committed to ensuring equitable and meaningful opportunities for all students “We offer African American and Latin American history courses,” she said as an example. “We have also worked

“As always, PTHS D209 values community input and is committed to ensuring equitable and meaningful opportunities for all students. We are always looking for ways to improve the students’ experience. We do audit our curriculum and we look at where it was

placed, what the intent was and what is actually enacted in the classroom and how students respond to that. We’re in the process of doing a lot of that now because that’s how we go through revisions of our curriculum. If we see we can do a little bit better we revise it.

We have to make sure that we are being fair and equitable to all our students.

We are heavily invested in improving our equitable practices and as a part of that we are definitely going to look at the offerings of curriculum and how it impacts our students.”

“We are proud to be participating in the Forest Park Review’s Latino Pride section this year as celebrating Latino culture and achievements is important to us not only this month but every day. With 54 percent of our student population identifying as Latino, we are intentional about ensuring that students take pride in their culture and learn about our diverse history by hosting events throughout the year that give students an opportunity to showcase their culture, coordinating field trips that bring history to life, and offering courses that encourage students to value multiculturalism. In 2017, a resolution was passed designating PTHS D209 as a “welcoming and safe” school district for all students where all students have access to a free public education regardless of their immigration status as the safety and security of our students is a priority. Additionally, as of 2019 all District communications will be published in Spanish to better assist parents in being active participants in their children’s education.”

- Cynthia Moreno, Director of Community Outreach and Public Relations

photos by Alexa Rogals

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Celebrate Hispanic Heritage

September 11, 2019

Special Advertising Section

What State Representative Emanuel “Chris” Welch can do for you!

Our office can assist you in navigating a wide variety of state services including, but not limited to: Processing professional license applications with the Illinois Department of Financial & Professional Regulation Referrals for job assistance programs Referrals on college scholarships and financial aid information Assisting veterans with state programs and resources

Rep. Welch frequently offers state seminars and programs to create awareness of resources and opportunities for constituents, including:

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Celebrate Hispanic Heritage

S W E N !

H S A FL You can get local news delivered right to your email in-box.

Sign up for FREE at ForestParkReview.com

September 11, 2019

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Welch Measure Aimed at Increasing Corporate Board Diversity Now Law

A

The best and most current thinking on corporate health emphasizes that diversity among organizational leadership results in more nimble, creative problem-solving in our “I introduced this bill and feel so rapidly changing world. A 2015 study passionately about this issue because

by McKinsey and Co. found that there’s not a day that goes by that I companies that excel in racial and don’t think about creating a brighter ethnic diversity are 35% more likely to future for my children,” Welch said. “I have financial returns above their peers, am committed to fostering a business and those excelling in gender diversity environment that offers the same are 15% percent more likely. As the opportunities conversation for my son, on increasing daughter, and “I introduced this corporate all women bill and feel so diversity in and people of passionately about Illinois has color that are this issue because developed, afforded to their there’s not a day that Welch’s proposal peers.” goes by that I don’t has seen a think about creating a Welch’s groundswell of brighter future for my measure, support from children,” Welch said House Bill the business 3394, requires community. corporations “This measure puts all the data on based in Illinois to report the the table, identifies practices that have racial and gender make up of their worked to increase board diversity, board of directors to the Secretary while also holding corporations of State’s office and requires the accountable that are not taking the steps University of Illinois to study the necessary to embrace a more diverse data and make recommendations to corporate culture,” Welch said. “I would improve representation of women like to thank my colleagues in the House and minorities. Additionally, Welch’s and Senate and Governor Pritzker for legislation would require the University their help in getting this reform that of Illinois to publish an individualized will improve corporate diversity in rating for each corporation’s efforts to Illinois signed into law.” increase diversity on their boards. proposal by State Rep. Emanuel “Chris” Welch, D-Hillside, aimed at increasing the diversity of corporate boards in Illinois is now law.

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Celebrate Hispanic Heritage

September 11, 2019

315 S. Harlem Ave • Forest Park, IL 60130

708-689-8595

Open Monday thru Thursday 9 am to 9pm Sun-11am to 9pm Friday & Saturday 9am to 10pm

• Let us cater your next party! •

Cactus Grill: Authentic yet culturally accessible

By Tom Holmes

W

hen customers walk into the Cactus Grill located at 315 S. Harlem Ave in Forest Park, they get an authentic taste of Mexico which is also culturally accessible to Americans.

In an interview last July with the Review, Nadia Mondragon, who owns the restaurant with her husband Roque, made a statement which reveals an approach as a restaurateur which fits in nicely with Hispanic Heritage Month.

She explained, “A lot of the Mexican restaurants now, they try to do more like Tex-Mex food. We want to keep it as Mexican and authentic as possible and not too Americanized, so you can know the taste of how we live in Mexico. …

It’s important to keep our roots.”

At first glance, the Cactus Grill menu includes dishes familiar to Americans— burritos, chimichangas, chiles rellenos, enchiladas, flautas. What makes her Mexican restaurant different, she said, is that is she cooks with ingredients which are both fresh and authentic, so that the food tastes “just like the food

my grandma grew up cooking.”

But the authenticity goes beyond the food. The two TV monitors have the audio turned off and a Spanish translation continually running across the bottom of the screen. While most of the menu items have English translations, some do not. For example, one section is titled “Combinaciones Mar Y Tierra.” Most folks whose primary language is English can figure out what the words mean, but Mondragons have trusted the intelligence of their patrons to figure it out.

Every one of the employees working at the eatery speak Spanish. That is, in part, because they are all related to Roque and Nadia, whose family migrated north from central Mexico over 20 years ago.

Other touches of authenticity include the Mexican music being played in the background and the soft drinks imported from Mexico like Tamarind flavored Jarrito.

At the same time, the restaurant is

culturally accessible. The employees are friendly, welcoming and completely bilingual. The interior is attractively decorated in soft gold with paintings of adobe buildings and cacti hanging on the walls.

Nadia’s sister Perla is married to a white American named Jason Frenzel who expressed the spirit of Hispanic Heritage Month by saying, “I am a gringo who married a Mexican woman. According to her and her family, I have become an honorary Mexican because I have embraced many aspects of their culture, such as the closeness and codependence of family, the food, language, and certain perspectives regarding their worldview.

I am relatively open minded anyway, but my deepened exposure to a foreign culture has enlightened my sense of self as I relate to the world, because there are so many people out there experiencing and thinking of things in different ways.”

Special Advertising Section

Celebrate Hispanic Heritage

Special Advertising Section

September 11, 2019

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www.bespokeflipbooks.com info@bespokeflipbooks.com 773.234.2690

Bespoke Flipbooks is the premier interactive entertainment company perfect for your next special event. Rather than shooting photos, like in a traditional photobooth, we’ll shoot a 7-second video of you and your guests and transform it into a 60-page flipbook in under a minute. Whether it’s a quinceañera, prom, wedding, or corporate event, our signature Bespoke Flipbook service will provide you and your guests entertainment and a keepsake in one. Hire us for your event today!

Be sure to visit us on Facebook to view our promo video!

Celebrate Hispanic heritage with flipbooks

By Tom Holmes

D

exter Cura was born in the Philippines, but he is connected with the Hispanic community in at least two ways.

First, Cura has been hired to bring his Bespoke Flipbooks service to many quinceaneras and Latino weddings, and he saw Hispanic Heritage Month as an opportunity to get more exposure in the Latino community in particular and in all of Chicagoland in general.

Here’s how Bespoke Flipbooks works.

The host of an event hires Cura to come to the wedding or family reunion or whatever the gathering may be for about two hours in which time he can make up to 125 seven seconds long action videos of people dancing or hugging or just acting silly.

Then, his technology transforms the digital recording into sixty distinct frames—much like movies used to be printed on celluloid—which are bound into a book about the size of a business card, and when your riffle through the pages, almost magically the action reappears in front of your eyes.

Cura said that his service has been a hit at events, partly because it’s something new but also because “in under 60 seconds, we’ll create a flipbook for the guests to receive as their keepsake. It’s not only a keepsake for the guests, but it’s also entertainment for everyone as well!

The second way he feels connected to the Hispanic community is because he has noticed much overlap between the cultures of Filipinos and Latinos.

“Like family,” he said. “Both Hispanics and Filipinos tend to be very family-centric. Whenever there is an event like a baptism or wedding or quinceanera the whole extended family—aunts, uncles, cousins, in-laws—are not only invited but expected to be present. Everyone is welcome and there is always a lot food. They love to have a good time together.”

He laughed at how an emphasis on family can have both positive and negative sides. “On the one hand,” he explained with a smile,

“when they are together, they talk about and discuss everyone in the family.

They all know everyone’s business.

“On the other hand, nothing you can do can make you not be a part of the family. You’ll never be alone in a Latino or Filipino family.”

Cura added that you can have a flipbook made for yourself online.

He said, “We have an online service where we make your videos

come to life! Send your 7-10 second video snippet at info@bespokeflipbooks.com and we’ll transform it into a 60-page paper flipbook.”

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September 11, 2019

Celebrate Hispanic Heritage

Special Advertising Section

The Mayor Rory E. Hoskins and the Village of Forest Park is happy to celebrate our first annual Hispanic Heritage Month event. The inaugural year’s theme is Bailando en Las Calles / Dancing in the Streets and it will be a one-day festival that will include entertainment and education by way of music, food, fun and family togetherness.

Saturday, October 5, 2019 • 2 p.m. to 11 p.m.

Constitution Court • Madison Street (rain date October 12)

If you have additional questions about sponsorship and/or volunteering, please contact us by email, fp.hhmcommittee@gmail.com, or call the Village of Forest Park 708-615-6203 and ask for Tanzla Davis-Rodriguez

Celebrate Hispanic Heritage