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REVIEW F O R E S T PA R K

DECEMBER 30, 2020

Byline Bank boosts local businesses PAGE 6

East footballll stadium coming down

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Three uncontested races for April’s election D209, D91 and park board elections will be uncontested By MARIA MAXHAM Editor

Forest Parkers will be asked to vote in several local races on April 6. All filings are in, and all of the races will be uncontested, including that for Proviso Township High School District 209, somewhat unexpected since the group Proviso Together formed and began running candidates in 2015. Four seats on the D209 board will be open in April, and all four incumbents whose seats are expiring have filed to run in the election. Proviso Together has announced its support of incumbents Amanda Grant and current Board President Rodney Alexander. Incumbents Samuel Valtierrez and Arbdella Patterson are also running, though not as part of the Proviso Together slate. There are no additional candidates running for the D209 board. Forest Park’s elementary school district, District 91, also has four seats available and four candidates seeking election. Of the four current members whose terms are expiring, only Kyra Tyler, board president, is running again. Mary Win Connor, Eric Connor and Kimberly Rostello will not seek reelection to the board. Steve Rummell and John Lyons, who ran unsuccessfully for positions on the D91 school board during the last election, will be on the ballot. Newcomer Lerin Cross is in the running as well. There will be one open spot on the Park District of Forest Park’s board, as Eric Entler’s term is expiring. He has decided not to seek reelection. Krysten Lyons is the only candidate running for the position.

File Photo

LAST BIG BASH: Forest Park’s annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade on March 7 was the last major town event before COVID-19 related shutdowns began.

COVID’s unending upending Pandemic touched every aspect of life in Forest Park By MARIA MAXHAM Editor

Memes abound about what a terrible year 2020 was. In one, Doc from the movie Back to the Future, with a frazzled

IN Crime . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6 THIS Big Week . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7 ISSUE Opinion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Obituaries. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Classified . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

look on his face, says to the character played by Michael J. Fox, “Marty, whatever happens, don’t ever go to 2020!” Another is captioned, “If 2020 was a slide” and shows a kid on a playground about to slide down a giant kitchen grater. One more reads, “If 2020 was a hula hoop” with a photo of a thick loop of barbed wire. In 2020, hard blows hit the world and Forest Park, most of them related to

The year in food PAGE 8

COVID-19. People have died, the economy is bleak, and businesses have staggered, some have shuttered, a few have opened). Depression is on the rise and children are struggling to figure out how to learn in a new environment. We can’t spend time with those we love. These things are hard. Although the vaccine offers hope, it’s still uncertain when things will See YEAR IN REVIEW on page 4

Chamber president’s term ends PAGE 10

Forest Park Review, December 30, 2020

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Forest Park COVID-19 deaths rise by one Metrics to move down to Tier 2 mitigations in sight By MARIA MAXHAM Editor

A 74-year-old man died from COVID-19 on Dec. 22, bringing Forest Park’s total death count due to coronavirus, since the beginning of the pandemic, up to 25 residents. Since Nov. 20, all 11 Illinois COVID Regions, including Region 10, suburban Cook County, have been under Tier 3 mitigation orders, which prohibit restaurants and bars from serving customers indoors, among many other restrictions. To move into Tier 2, according to the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH), a region must experience the following: - Less than 12 percent positivity rate, on a seven-day rolling average, for 3 consecutive days,

- Greater than 20 percent available intensive care unit and medical/surgical bed availability (on a 3-day rolling average) for 3 consecutive days, - And a decline in the number of COVID-19 patients in the hospital (on a 7-day rolling average) in 7 out of the last 10 days. Region 10 meets almost all the criteria to move back into Tier 2 mitigations as of Dec. 28, with 11 days under 12 percent positivity rate; 10 days of decreases in COVID-19 patient hospitalizations; and 3 consecutive days over the 20 percent threshold for medical and surgical beds. The one factor holding the region back from moving down to Tier 2, which comes with fewer restrictions on businesses, is the ICU bed availability, which as of Dec. 28 was only 2 days over the 20 percent threshold. A 3-day rolling average of consecutive days must be maintained. And, at any time, the region could fall back if the positivity rate increases or more COVID-19 patients are hospitalized.

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Forest Park Review, December 30, 2020

Forest Park in 2020: surviving and thriving

ast year, I summarized the events of 2019, describing the year as “tumultuous.” Tumultuous? 2019 was positively serene compared to 2020, which started on a high note, though, when we profiled a young woman named Alyaa Shakir, who is risking her life to lead a cleanup of Baghdad’s streets. Our story was picked up by a TV station in Beirut, which interviewed Alyaa. Never underestimate the global reach of the Review. Our next interview subject, Siddarth Kusuma, is a former Forest Park Little Leaguer who enjoys a successful modeling career. Sidd recently filmed his first national TV commercial. Another local success, author Kate McElligott, published her children’s book Nothing is Scary with Harry. The book is centered on a “blankie” named Harry. Speaking of scary, we profiled Ella Al Malicki, a heroic young woman who served as a translator for U.S. troops in Iraq. She later served as an intern at my detective agency. She would be the last as we shut down the family business after 56 years. The Forest Park Public Library installed its Little Free Pantry. The wooden box was built by Tom Kunkel with help from some Boy Scouts. The pantry is located just north of the library’s entrance and residents continue to stock it for those in need.

On March 6, we held our St. Patrick’s Day Parade, just before the pandemic closed our bars and restaurants. The pandemic did benefit some local businesses. Rich Schauer’s hardware store was busier than ever because homeowners had nothing better to do than fix up their properties. WGN TV filmed a segment on his store titled, “Local hardware store offers more than nuts and bolts.” Another TV program, The Deed: Chicago, filmed an episode in Forest Park. Host Sean Conlon interviewed the “Bungalow Kings” who flipped two bungalows on the 1500 Block of Marengo. Forest Park was on the small screen again, when location manager Daniel Marcus chose the 400 block of Thomas to film a beer commercial. Meanwhile, Garfield School organized a cavalcade of cars for staff members to parade past the homes of their shut-in students. With District 91 staff teaching remotely, P.E. teacher Nitasha Ali found Tik Tok videos to be a valuable tool. Students missed not only the classroom but the “All School Picnic,” founded by Review publisher, the late Bob Haeger, was canceled. The No Gloves softball tournament was also a pandemic casualty, but a homegrown team from Forest Park, YTD, won the National Championship. Other winners in town included Danche Guitars and Kribi Coffee, which received prestigious Illinois

JOHN RICE

L O O K

B A C K

I N

Made awards. Picnics were out but birthday parades became common. There was a parade celebrating the 90th birthday of Frances J. Lee, with well-wishers streaming past her apartment building. There was also a parade for the 100th birthday of May Bill, a village mainstay for 88 years! Besides parading, Forest Park residents marched with residents from Maywood and Bellwood to protest social injustice. Like other villagers, we made the best of the pandemic by hosting a porch concert. Cedes Buck and John Wallin entertained a gathering of friends and neighbors. This helped relieve the sadness of losing longtime neighbors like Ruth Hopp and Dick Gray. We also lost many longtime businesses, like Mom’s Place Restaurant and John Di Pinto’s barbershop, which operated at Desplaines & Madison for 54 years! This year also marked the retirement of Fire Department Lieutenant Tom “T.J.” Janopoulos after 30 years of serving the village. T.J. went out on a high note, making a daring rescue of a duckling from a storm drain. I’m happy to report that “Pasta” is thriving. ■ John Rice is a columnist/private detective, who has seen his business and family thrive in Forest Park. He thoroughly enjoys life in the village and still gets a thrill smelling Red Hots, watching softball and strolling through cemeteries. Jrice1038@aol.com

T I M E . . .

PARKY’S PERSEVERES The buildings from 329 to 315 Harlem Ave. were slated to come down to make way for a strip shopping center in 1984. Parky’s still remains, but the homes to the south were leveled for “service type” stores with plenty of parking.

–Jill Wagner

On Oct. 3, 1984, Forest Park Review published this photo of Harlem Avenue, which features Parky’s and several homes to the north. Those homes are now a strip mall with JJ Fish, Supercuts, Subway, Cactus Grill and a tobacco shop.

F O R E S T PA R K

REVIEW Editor Maria Maxham Senior Editor Bob Uphues Contributing Reporters Tom Holmes, John Rice, Bob Skolnik, Jackie Glosniak, Robert J. Lifka Columnists Alan Brouilette, Jill Wagner, Tom Holmes, John Rice Food Editor Melissa Elsmo Staff Photographer Alex Rogals Design/Production Manager Andrew Mead Designers Debbie Becker, Mark Moroney Sales and Marketing Representatives Lourdes Nicholls, Marc Stopeck Sales & Development Mary Ellen Nelligan Circulation Manager Jill Wagner Publisher Dan Haley Business Manager Joyce Minich GROWING COMMUNITY MEDIA Board of Directors Chair Judy Greffin Treasurer Nile Wendorf Deb Abrahamson, Gary Collins, Darnell Shields, Sheila Solomon, Eric Weinheimer HOW TO REACH US ADDRESS 141 S. Oak Park Ave., Oak Park, IL 60302 PHONE 708-366-0600 ■ FAX 708-467-9066 EMAIL forestpark@wjinc.com CIRCULATION Jill@oakpark.com ONLINE ForestParkReview.com TWITTER @FP_Review Postmaster: Please send address changes to: Forest Park Review,141 S. Oak Park Ave., Oak Park, IL 60302-2901. Periodical rate postage paid at Oak Park, IL (USPS No 0205-160) In-county subscriptions: $28 per year. $42 for two years, $58 for three years. Out-of-county subscriptions: $36 per year. Forest Park Review is published digitally and in print by Growing Community Media NFP. © 2020 Growing Community Media NFP. F O R E S T PA R K

REVIEW 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.

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Forest Park Review, December 30, 2020

YEAR IN REVIEW So many changes from page 1 get back to “normal.” In fact, many have accepted that we won’t be going “back” to anything. The way we live our lives, operate our businesses, attend school, share time with friends and family may have been altered, if even in small ways, permanently. Maybe that’s not all bad, though. Repeatedly throughout the year, people have talked to the Review about silver linings, about finding the good even in terrible situations.

Hoskins and Director of Health and Public Safety Steve Glinke worked with the Forest Park Chamber of Commerce to get restaurants, even those which previously hadn’t had permits for outdoor dining, up and running. By the end of June, all regions of Illinois were moved into Phase 4 of the Restore Illinois plan to reopen during COVID-19. This allowed restaurants and bars to open for indoor dining and drinking, serving parties of up to 10 people, with table-distancing guidelines and mask wearing rules in place.

A brief timeline of COVID Perhaps the last “normal” event of 2020 in Forest Park was the annual St. Patrick’s Day parade on March 7. Although COVID-19 had come to the country, it was still uncertain at the time how bad it would be, or how quickly it would spread. GOODBYE PARADE: Rosabella and Jeremiah Manzaneres The parade took place like ev- participated in the drive-by farewell parade for Bill ery year, with candy tossed to Milnamow. eager kids and businesses and organizations marching to proFor a while, it felt good again. Businesses mote themselves. Partygoers gathered in were opening. People were out and about. bars. Masks weren’t a “thing” yet. Days later, the city of Chicago cancelled But COVID-19 cases were on the rise in Ilits annual parades. And less than a week lat- linois. On Oct. 28, all indoor service for bars and er, on March 13, Village Administrator Tim Gillian sent out a memo to residents. Dis- restaurants in Region 10 was once more sustrict 91 schools would be closed. The library, pended, since suburban Cook County was in community center and park district would two warning categories: the COVID-19 posialso shut “as we practice social distancing.” tivity rate over 10 percent and sustained It was the first of many closings. There COVID-related hospitalizations. This was a huge blow to businesses, which were subsequent reopenings with limited service. More closings. A back-and-forth of had to close their dining rooms and bars businesses being allowed to operate nor- once again. “This news is not unexpected but extrememally, then not operate at all, then reopen ly sad,” Gillian said at the time. “There’s no under restrictions. On March 20, a state-mandated shut- end in sight for these small businesses, and down of indoor dining began, set to expire I’m concerned that many of them will not on April 7 but extended through the end of survive. This shutdown could change the April. Some local restaurants began to focus face of Forest Park for years to come.” Cases in Illinois continued to rise, and on on take-out and delivery service in order to Nov. 20, the Illinois Department of Public survive the closure of their dining rooms. Health (IDPH) put all regions of the state unOn March 23, the village council granted der Tier 3 mitigation. Mayor Rory Hoskins the authority to declare In Forest Park, that meant the one bowla state of emergency in Forest Park, thereby granting him executive powers to make de- ing alley had to close again. Gyms could no cisions quickly, if need be, without village longer offer group fitness classes. Funerals could be attended by a maximum of 10 council approval. The state of emergency mourners, not including funeral parlor staff. was extended several times until June 8. For bars and restaurants, this meant the On April 17, Gov. J. B. Pritzker announced continuation of no indoor service, though that all Illinois schools would be closed a small number of establishments continthrough the remainder of the school year, ued to serve customers. Gradually, over the and on April 24, Hoskins signed a directive past few weeks, more and more places have requiring people in Forest Park to wear opened their doors. Some proudly. Some masks or face coverings in some public setapologetically. All of them hoping to stay tings. The directive was “issued to protect afloat throughout the pandemic. the health, safety, and welfare of persons within the village.” Some businesses gone; some new ones open On May 29, the state once more allowed The town lost more than one business sit-down service at restaurants and bars, to the pandemic. The Heritage went out but only outdoors. Spring was in fullof business for good, as did Francesca’s, swing, and the weather was perfect. Gillian,

Healy’s and Mom’s Place. Pre-pandemic, the Hallmark store on Madison Street and Damenzo’s Pizza on Roosevelt Road closed permanently. The U.S. Bank Branch announced its closure during the pandemic, but said it was a process of down-sizing and streamlining that was already underway. Businesses had to reinvent themselves. Amy’s Winehouse on Roosevelt Road closed but reopened itself as Power Play Café, a coffee shop. Gaetano’s restaurant closed, but Chef Gaetano Benedetto reopened as an artisan market, and business has been good. And even during the pandemic, new businesses sprung up in Forest Park. Macho’s, a Mexican restaurant, opened in the previous location of Damenzo’s. Lathrop House Café, owned by Patrick O’Brien of Scratch, began serving customers. Brothers Lance and Hansel Law took over the old Healy’s business, renamed as Forest Park Tap Room. In addition to restaurants and bars, a new slipcover business, tattoo shop, wig store, men’s clothing shop, modeling company, art gallery, and pool opened on Madison Street in 2020. And this year, some businesses celebrated milestones and successes. Pre-pandemic, Team Blonde was already reinventing itself. Owners Heidi Vance and Jayne Ertel renovated and added kids’ services to their salon offerings, hiring the popular stylists from Oak Park’s Lemonade, which closed at the end of December 2019. Centuries and Sleuths celebrated its 30th anniversary in November. Earlier in

cused on delivery and take-out since the pandemic shifted the ways businesses are being run. In June, Sarah’s Inn celebrated its 40th year providing services to clients. The agency, which provides services to clients suffering from domestic abuse, never missed a beat, even when the pandemic went into full swing.

Village government in 2020

Pre-COVID two new sources of income for the village were established during 2020. First, parking meter boxes were installed on Madison Street and along Circle Avenue by the Green Line train. And for the first time ever, Forest Park residents were charged a sewer tax, when the village council unanimously voted to slightly increase water rates and add the sewer tax for all types of customers, a move predicted to bring in an additional $1,370,000 annually to be used to fix and replace the town’s aging water and sewer infrastructure. Several infrastructure projects were completed in 2020, including the south side sewer project between the 1200 and 1500 blocks of Circle Avenue, where a large diameter sewer system was installed. The project, which began in July, includes separation of the existing combined sewer system and installing new storm and sanitary sewers and a new water main. It also involved pavement reconstruction and resurfacing, curb and gutter repairs, sidewalk and driveway replacement, parkway restoration and landscaping. The CTA lot near the Blue Line station was redone, and a grant for reconstructing the parking lot across from village hall with permeable pavers has been received by the village. The project that’s causing the most controversy is the Altenheim demolition and subsequent potential development, neither of which have occurred yet. A surprisingly low appraisal of the property was completed in 2020. The village council approved specs and terms for bidding for the demolition of the five derelict structures on AL FRESCO: Restaurants in Forest Park served masked the village-owned property in anticipation of moving quickly customers outside once the state allowed outdoor dinonce grant moneys were availing beginning at the end of May. able. An IGA is currently being reviewed by commissioners. the year, the independent bookstore won The bids for the demolition will be read on a James Patterson independent bookseller Jan. 13. If all goes as planned the $750,000 award. Owner August “Augie” Aleksy said, will be available from the state for demolilast January, “It’s definitely a challenge tion. to be an independent bookseller today. If In terms of development, Forest Oaks and you’re going to do it, it needs to be a voca- the Madison West apartments at 7652 Madition, not a job. You have to really love it.” son St., at the location of the former Molly Accents by Fred entered its 20th year on Malone’s, were completed this year, and new Madison Street. The shop, owned by Fred projects are underway. A Taco Bell has been Bryant and his wife Ann Hanson, sells prod- approved for Harlem Avenue, and a townucts almost exclusively made by the hus- home project is underway on Franklin Street. band and wife team. Since the Review reThe village is fully zoned for recreational ported on their 20 years, the shop has begun marijuana sales and processing in the event making masks as well. that an investor with one of the scarce IlliTwisted Cookie on Madison Street opened nois licenses finds the village attractive. a second location in Chicago and has foAccording to Glinke, “Despite the current

Forest Park Review, December 30, 2020 circumstances, we have exciting developments in the queue. I think 2021 is going to be a good year development-wise.” In crime, there was a temporary increase in catalytic converter thefts, and carjackings have been on the rise this year.

Retirements and promotions The village saw some notable changes in leadership in 2020. Fire Chief Bob McDermott resigned from the Forest Park Fire Department after 32 years with the village. Upon retiring, an unplanned opportunity came up and he has taken over as chief in North Riverside. On Sept. 31, Phil Chiappetta was sworn in as Forest Park’s new fire chief. On Oct. 15, Bobby “B.J.” Reid and Mark Maylath were officially sworn in as lieutenants in the fire department, filling roles vacated by Tom “T.J.” Janopoulos and Russ Nelson, who retired in the fall. Village Administrator Tim Gillian announced on Nov. 23 that he will retire on Jan. 29. A lifelong Forest Park resident, he was hired by the village council in August 2009 to replace Mike Sturino. Gillian had previously served as a village commissioner.

lab and an advanced manufacturing lab at Proviso West in Hillside.

Administrative changes and conflict for District 91 At District 91, Forest Park Middle School (FPMS) principal Joe Pisano resigned effective the end of June. Tinisa Huff, the assistant principal at FPMS, had already accepted a position as principal of Betsy Ross beginning during the 2020-21 school year since Bill Milnamow, principal of Betsy for 20 years, was retiring at the end of the year. Tiffany Brunson, former principal of Field Stevenson Elementary, was made principal of both Field Stevenson and FPMS, and assistant principal Eric Beltran was hired. Supt. Lou Cavallo had long announced his retirement, effective at the end of this school year, and the D91 school board has been working on finding a replacement for him. They hired School Exec Connect, an executive search firm to assist in the process. They expect to announce a new superintendent by the end of January.

Big changes for District 209 In the education sphere, Proviso Township High School District 209 went through massive changes in 2020. For one, kids stopped attending in-person classes in March and never went back to the building. But on an administrative level, the district saw changes too. With previous Superintendent FAREWELL: This year, Fire Chief Bob McDermott retired Jesse Rodriguez stepping away after 32 years serving the village of Forest Park. from the district, the board hired a search firm and went through a D91 was not immune to controversy. A round of interviews with three candidates. brief issue over the reopening plan caused None were satisfactory, so they extended a second set of discussions, after which it the search, finally hiring James Henderson, was decided the school would not open for who took leadership of the district on Aug. in-person learning. Unlike many nearby dis3. tricts, D91 has remained remote-only since His hiring was not without conflict, as stoMarch 2020, lending consistency to the lives ries from his past caused controversy. Most of parents, students and teachers. recently a Mississippi state audit from the Other controversy revolved around paid last district he worked at showed questionchildcare for D91 students. An original agreeable activity by him and his previous board. ment with the YMCA was discarded by CavalIn June, prior to the hiring of Henderson, lo, leaving the Community Center, already at William C. Breisch was hired as the princicapacity, as the only option. The Park District pal of Proviso Math and Science Academy of Forest Park was fortunately able to quickly (PMSA), replacing Bessie Karvelas, who put together a safe alternative. had served in the position for a long time Finally, the recent discovery of an overbut was appointed to serve as the district’s priced ad in a Chicago Bears season-ticketchief innovation officer in 2019. holder magazine has raised ire, and eyeIn September, Henderson eliminated the position held by Karvelas, and she was brows, in the community. The Review has talked to many teachers moved into the position of principal of Proin D91, many of them working harder than viso West. The board also approved the controver- pre-pandemic to keep students learning and sial firing of communications director Ce- engaged. It’s been a struggle, and universally the instructors have said the same thing, sar Rodriguez. The Master Facilities Plan continued, and over and over: We miss being with the kids. the PMSA parking lot is currently undergoPark District focuses on positives ing construction. Ribbon cutting ceremonies were recently held at Proviso East in Pre-pandemic, the Park District of Forest Maywood for an industrial-grade culinary Park hired marketing manager Adam Cum-

nomenon started by resident Kimberly Adami-Hasegawa. She would make a cocktail during Pritzker’s daily COVID press conferences and post it on Twitter with the hashtag #spritzerswithpritzker. Pritzker gave her a shoutout on April 9 during his press conference. There were parade parties, for birthdays young and old and for people moving away. They became a break from quarantine, a chance to honk and cheer and celebrate each SO COOL: Although the pool was closed this summer, other safely. the Park District of Forest Park opened the splash pad, There was a new group, with social distancing rules in place. Forest Park Against Racism (FPAR), that held a Juneteenth bee, and in August Ryan Russ was promoted celebration on the Circle Avenue bridge, an to superintendent of parks. event that drew over 1,000 people. RemarkAnd despite the fact that the pool didn’t able in and of itself, the event was even more open this summer, and the No Gloves tournament was canceled, the park district notable because it was organized by FPAR, which had only been formed two weeks found ways to persevere. prior by a handful of residents who saw the As Executive Director Jackie Iovinelli current racial climate nationally and localsaid, closing the pool broke her heart, but ly as intolerable and decided to take action. she knew “it’s time to stop worrying about There was the opportunity to see the Forwhat we can’t do and start focusing on what est Park Chamber of Commerce, headed by we can do.” Laurie Kokenes, Christine Westphal and And do they did, with summer camp, Dorothy Gillian, work almost constantly to drive-in movies at the Altenheim, and provide resources for the local businesses, jumping in when the school district needed from updates on government loans to vilhelp with child-care during the school days. lage communications and rules, all the Plans are underway to build a new skate while planning events different from the park and splash pad, which was able to open ones they usually held. over the summer despite the pool remaining Gone was the wine walk and the casket closed. races. The Holiday Window Walk couldn’t In an agreement with the village, the park be held. But the chamber still brought celdistrict is leasing the pocket parks around ebration, with an art stroll, decorated Haltown, planning to apply for grants to imloween planters along Madison Street, and prove them. Resident input will be solicited. more than one safe holiday event. The park district also made huge imThe library finished a major renovation provements to the exterior of its 80-year-old project in 2020, and despite the pandemic main building. has been offering virtual classes for kids and adults. Under the leadership of Pilar Silver linings Shaker, the library has adjusted more than It can come off as glib to say, “But let’s look once in response to state mandates, always at the good things!” when there has been so striving to offer as many services as safely much suffering. But there are moments and as possible to patrons. Currently, vestibule-pick-up is being provided. In-person use of copier equipment and computers is available. In the beginning of the pandemic, the Review interviewed Carey Carlock, CEO of Riveredge Hospital, who spoke about mental health issues related to the pandemic, about anxiety and depression and getting help. She also talked about silver linings. Finding new ways to do things, ways that will allow her staff to provide better service OVER 1,000 STRONG: Forest Park Against Racism’s Meet even after the pandemic. Celat the Bridge event drew a crowd of over 1,000 people. ebrating people you otherwise wouldn’t have met. “We need to focus on gratitude and finding the good things that can people and celebrations that stand out, even come out of times of crisis,” said Carlock. in the darkness that 2020 has brought. There was Spritzers with Pritzker, a pheAll photos: FPR File Photos

Forest Park Review, December 30, 2020

Woman alleges attack by neighbors

A woman on the 400 block of Marengo Ave. was allegedly attacked by four individuals, two men and two women, when she went outside to smoke a cigarette and take out the trash on Dec. 26 at 1:37 a.m. According to the victim, a man approached her, called her a racist, and punched her in the face. The punch knocked her down, at which point two women began to kick her, while a fourth male subject screamed at her with racial insults. The victim said she was able to get off the ground and run inside her apartment. Police observed red marks on her forehead and cuts and scrapes on her hands. She said she believed the offenders live in the apartments above hers. Later, police were called to the same address, but this time from the alleged offender(s)’ apartment, because the victim’s husband was banging on the apartment door

demanding someone come out and explain why his wife was attacked earlier in the day.

the victim it didn’t look like anything had been taken.

Car windows broken

Vehicles, both with keys inside, stolen

The rear driver side window of a car was broken on the 1300 block of Circle Ave. during the overnight hours between Dec. 24 and 25. The victim discovered the window broken, but it is unknown what the offender or offenders used to break the window. It did not appear to police that the offender made entry into the vehicle. A vehicle was ransacked on the 1200 block of Elgin Ave. overnight between Dec. 24 and 25. The victim reported that an unknown offender broke the rear driver side window of her vehicle while it was parked outside her residence. The driver side doors were ajar, according to the police report, and her vehicle was ransacked, though according to

A vehicle was stolen from the 800 block of Desplaines Ave. overnight between Dec. 21 and 22. The victim told police he last saw his car at around 9 p.m. on Dec. 21 when he left for a friend’s house. He said he leaves a set of keys inside the vehicle and keeps a second set with him. When he returned the next day at 3:20 p.m., the car was gone. A car was stolen from Thornton’s, 601 Harlem Ave., on Dec. 27 at 3:37 a.m. when the victim left it running, keys inside, to go into the gas station store.

These items were obtained from police reports filed by the Forest Park Police Department, Dec. 21-27, 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 Maria Maxham

Byline Bank buoys restaurants with surprise gift card purchases $15,000 in spending a welcome surprise for local eateries By MELISSA ESLMO Oak Park Eats editor

COMMUNITY COUNTS: Susie Goldschmidt (left) visited Yum Thai, 7748 Madison St., as part of Byline Bank’s plan to purchase $15,000 in gift certificates from local restaurants.

Recognizing that local businesses and restaurants form the backbone of communities, Alberto Paracchini, CEO of Byline Bank, tasked Susie Goldschmidt, Oak Park and River Forest Market President for Byline Bank, with purchasing $15,000 in gift cards from local restaurants. Byline Bank committed the funds in hopes of making a difference at a critical time for many restaurants struggling because of the COVID-19 pandemic. The hope is this effort, and a similar one in Evanston, will gain momentum and inspire others to participate in showing support for local establishments. In December, Goldschmidt operated like a jolly elf paying surprise visits to 68 Oak Park, River Forest, and Forest Park restaurants to purchase gift certificates on behalf of the bank. “I had my fill of lunch, coffee, dinner and desserts over the five days spent buying the gift cards than I have had in quite a while. It was a great change up to my week,” said Goldschmidt. “One restaurant said they were wondering and waiting to see if I would end up at their business.” Byline partnered with the Oak Park-River Forest Chamber of Commerce as well as the Forest Park Chamber of Commerce to help Goldschmidt spread the love between communities. She visited breweries, restaurants and diners including Forest Park’s

of experience in the banking industry, also understands the struggles restaurants are facing firsthand. She and her late husband owned and operated the now closed China Night Restaurant in Forest Park for 15 years. “I know about the plight of restaurants after running China Night on my own for seven years,” said Goldschmidt. “It is great Byline wants to make a difference locally and preserve the feeling of a true community bank.” Byline Bank has accumulated a collection of hundreds of gift cards. To date no official decision has been made as to how to use or distribute them, but the impact of the considerable spend has not gone unnoticed. Courageous Bakery in Oak Park donates a portion of their proceeds to cancer research and sent an appreciative email to Goldschmidt stating the following: “Every purchase makes a difference in these difficult times. We are so grateful we have been able to stay open, both to be Photos by Melissa Elsmo here for our comSURPRISE TWIST: Susie Goldschmidt (right) surprised Twisted munity and also Cookie owner Joana Fischer Thompson with a visit and purchase give back to a good cause.” from Byline Bank.

Yum Thai and Oak Park’s One Lake Brewing, Robinson’s Ribs, and Georges’ Family Restaurant. She also stopped by coffee shops, bakeries and sweet shops including Wise Cup in Oak Park, River Forest Chocolates, Twisted Cookie in Forest Park as well as Oak Park’s, Spilt Milk. “I think this program is so amazing, and as a small business owner I cannot tell you what an impact that makes and how truly grateful we are for the support.” said Meg Svec, co-owner of Spilt Milk Pastry of the Byline Bank effort. Goldschmidt, who has more than 40 years

Forest Park Review, December 30, 2020

Dec. 30 – Jan. 6

BIG WEEK Create a 2021 Vision Board The Forest Park Public Library is distributing vision board kits to adults. The kit includes paper, a glue stick, magazines, and a special treat of tea and chocolate. You can find a resource guide along with a step-by-step video at fppl.org/visionboard. Pickup begins Jan. 2 through the library’s vestibule pick-up service. Call ahead to put one on hold at 708-366-7171. Kits are offered on a first come, first served basis while supplies last.

I Feel Good! Hits of the 60s Don’t miss accomplished performers Matt and Cynthia Gruel in a live cabaret performance of inspiring and joyful songs of the 60s. This musical and storytelling cabaret includes songs from such artists as James Brown, Elvis Presley, The Beatles, The Beach Boys, Frank Sinatra, Louis Armstrong, Neil Diamond and more! Join the concert live, online, on Wednesday, Dec. 30th, at 6 p.m. here: https://youtu.be/jJzXKQcQwNM

Cancer Connection Support Group The Cancer Connection Support Group, a partnership between Rush Oak Park Hospital and Wellness House, provides an opportunity for people experiencing cancer to share information, connect with others in similar circumstances and improve coping skills. Registration is not required, and there is no cost for the program. For more information, contact Ellen Nieman at 630-654-5198. The next meeting is Jan. 4 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.

Holiday Overnight Parking Restrictions Lifted In observance of the holiday season, the village of Forest Park has suspended the overnight parking ban through Tuesday, Jan. 5. Please plan to call your car in again on Tuesday night for Wednesday morning.

Get Your 2021 Forest Park Village Calendar Calendars are available at village hall, 517 Desplaines Ave., during normal business hours, Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Forest Park Review, December 30, 2020

A mouth full of memories By MELISSA ELSMO

Food Editor

o doubt about it, 2020 proved to be a challenging year for restaurants, but creative carryout solutions, resourceful chefs and devoted customers proved it was possible to keep things downright delicious in our little food-focused alcove. We know the struggle is not over for our beloved eateries, but showing our support is the best way to help them through these difficult days. Enjoy this look back at several of our favorite bites this year — and order some carryout to help our restaurants carry on. Forest Park Power Pairings: In early March, Duffy’s Tavern and Small Batch Barbecue hosted a “smoke fat and whiskey event” and served up a smoked old-fashioned with a prime rib slider. The combo was a pre-COVID highlight. The Arnold Palmer Pop – Popify, Oak Park: Popify collaborates with Todd and Holland Tea Merchants to create their Arnold Palmer Pops. Made with fresh lemon and lavender earl grey tea, these refreshing hyper-local artisan popsicles are sold from a bike or delivered via porch drop in the summer, making them proper pandemic fare. Beef Medallion Family Meal – Golden Steer Steakhouse, Forest Park: The pandemic brought family meals to the forefront and Golden Steer has one of the best. The unfussy steak dinner, comes with classic sides that remind us sometimes simple is best. Ice Cream through a Window – Brown Cow, Forest Park: After assessing how best to serve customers efficiently during a pandemic, Connie Brown broke out her

toolbox and created a diminutive walk-up window to safely serve cones, cakes and DIY sundae kits from the street. French Toast Breakfast – Louie’s Grill, Forest Park: A classic breakfast from Louie’s Grill. Even after a brief ride in the car, the French toast, served with maple syrup and a dusting of powdered sugar, will make anyone feel like a kid again. The Asian Bowl – Lathrop House Café, Forest Park: Patrick O’Brien is bringing the Scratch Restaurant philosophy to his new breakfast- and lunch-focused joint. We loved the Asian bowl featuring mixed greens, hearty farro, pulled chicken, pickled carrots and crispy wontons in a sesame-ginger dressing. Anything and Everything – Chef Gaetano’s Artisan Foods, Forest Park: The Madison Street newcomer is the result of a mid-pandemic pivot. Expect extraordinary smells as you patiently peruse artisan breads, fresh pastas, premium meats, and house-made sauces. Notable finds included housesmoked ricotta, fresh spinach and ricotta triangoli, and wild boar ragu. Gaetano’s Artisan Foods, with Chef Gaetano Di Benedetto, also offers enticing house-made pizzas. “The Obvious” – The Daly Bagel, Oak Park: Folks line up daily for these East Coast style beauties, and bagel maven Amanda Daly clearly knows how to pile lox, cream cheese, onions, and capers on a bagel. Mix and Match Soups - Starship Restaurant, Forest Park: Starship’s perennially popular freezer full of soups

has been an even bigger hit during the pandemic. The sandwich shop offers a selection of 80 soups every day, including Italian wedding, turkey pot pie, cream of dill pickle and rabbit stew. Black Lives Matter Blend - Kribi Coffee Air Roasters, Forest Park: Kribi Coffee customers connect with owner Jacques Shalo’s personal narrative and passion for coffee. The blend of African and South American coffee beans was created and sold to benefit the official Black Lives Matter Movement. Burger Bliss – Fitzgerald’s, Berwyn: Chef John Manion of El Che served up the “mano de deus” burger at Fitzgerald’s “Burgers are Best” pop-up this summer. Elevated in the hands of a capable chef, this “two-handed” burger featured house-made pickles and potato chip crumbles. Nearly six months later, we are still thinking about it. GOOD EATS: Photos in the collage represent the restaurants in the story, from left to right by row.

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Forest Park Review, December 30, 2020

East football stadium to be demolished early next year Reconstruction will include parking, improved running track, field with Pirate logo By MICHAEL ROMAIN Contributing Reporter

The Proviso East High School football stadium is a step closer to being demolished and eventually reconstructed. During a special meeting on Dec. 14, the Proviso Township High School District 209 school board unanimously approved a $106,400 bid from Chicagobased National Wrecking to demolish the stadium. National Wrecking’s bid was the lowest among six bid proposals submitted to the district, said Joseph M. Slattery, a project executive for Gilbane Building Company, the district’s contract manager. The demolition bid was tucked among six bid packages totaling $6,142,776 that Slattery presented for board approval at the Dec. 14 meeting. The bids, which range from the stadium demolition to electrical and mechanical work, are for construction related to the first phase facilities master plan. Other first phase projects, some of which are already completed, include the relocation of student parking at East, parking lot repairs at Proviso Math and Science Academy, the installation of a commercial-grade culinary lab and new auto shop at East, and the installation of an Advanced Manufacturing Lab at Proviso West. Slattery said the bid package that the board approved on Dec. 14 was Perkins and Will $2,652,805 lower than what Gilbane had estimated. “The market is very competitive right now, which is great,” he said. “You’re BIG PLANS: This is a rendering of the new proposed football field at Proviso East, scheduled to be built getting more bang for your buck right now,” adding that “contractors are hun- in 2021. gry [due to the COVID-19 pandemic].” Slattery said he’ll be back before the board in January to present even more construction bids for board approval. The estimated total cost of the entire bid package of remaining first phase facilities master plan work is estimated to be about $34 million, he said. ASSISTED LIVING • SHELTERED CARE • MEMORY CARE • SKILLED NURSING Michael Dolter, with Perkins and Will, the architectural firm hired to facilitate the construction projects, said in July that the football stadium will be demolished and reconstructed further east in order to make room for 118 parking spaces on campus and to allow for an improved running track, the installation of artificial turf on the football field and a Now safely moving large Pirate logo painted in the middle of the field. In addition, a separate building for connew residents to our cessions will be built near the stadium. small, wooded campus. Dolter said that work on the stadium could start in early 2021, once the new auto shop at East is completed.

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OUT WITH THE OLD: The current Proviso East football field is scheduled to be demolished early next year. It will be reconstructed.

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Forest Park Review, December 30, 2020

By TOM HOLMES

Gillian leads Chamber through a crazy year

Contributing Reporter

g n a H e r e in th k r a P t s e For

the test revealed that many stakeholders in town have a lot of character. Kokenes and Barnard kept working the same number of hours, even though they were being paid less. “We have a good mix of people on the board,” Gillian noted, “and they all stepped up. None of the board members dropped out because they were too busy.” Barnard added, “With so much unknown and new things we needed to do this year, having two people work side-by-side to brainstorm and share the work has been critical.” The board adapted to the situation by operating one week at a time and sticking to a tight budget. She noted that the board members gave emotional support to the members at large even while they were facing the same emotional challenges themselves. One of the good things that came out of the pandemic’s stress test, according to the third-year Chamber president, is that the organization proved its worth to some of the critics in town who had not seen the ways in which membership could help their businesses. “I think,” Gillian said, “it really helped the Chamber prove itself to a lot of people. I think it enlightened a lot of owners who didn’t think the organization was going to be very helpful.” During the interview for this article, Gillian kept praising other Chamber members for “stepping up” as she likes to say. Board members, however, appreciated her leadership as well.

Augie Aleksy, owner of Centuries & Sleuths, said Gillian was the right person at the right time in the right place. “She is a good leader,” he said, “because she has a good attitude and listens, but she can also be firm. This year has been a crisis year and she handled it well, not just by herself, but working with Laurie and Christine to be sure all members and the public are being given the same story. She is also a good administrator.” Barnard agrees. “Dorothy has been a great leader. She brings a sense of calm when needed but also pushes when needed. She is always willing to roll up her sleeves and help with whatever is needed. She also does a good job checking in with Laurie and myself to make sure we are doing OK.” In January Rob McAdam will take over as president.

FAREWELL: Dorothy Gillian has served as president of the Forest Park Chamber of Commerce for three years, including 2020, a year like no other for the businesses in town.

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Dorothy Gillian presided over her last Forest Park Chamber of Commerce board meeting as the organization’s president on Dec. 9. Looking back at 2020, she used the word “crazy” to describe how the pandemic affected both local businesses and how the Chamber supports them. The “normal” that everyone wants to get back to was what business was like for most retailers and restaurateurs in town as the village moved from December 2019 into January 2020. Gillian assumed the office of Chamber president at the beginning of 2018 and experienced the organization as like a football team ahead at the beginning of the second half but losing its momentum. Membership had declined incrementally, and increasing numbers of business owners were saying that they weren’t sure how the Chamber was benefitting them. “I didn’t have a plan when I first started,” Gillian recalled, “so what I did was tell as many people as I could about my new venture and get ideas from them.” She used the word “serendipity” to describe what happened next. She happened to be taking a class at the Urban Pioneer Group with Christine Barnard, who had been her very first client in the real estate business she started in Forest Park in 2006. Barnard, as it turned out, is a marketing consultant and as the two talked more about what was going on in the Chamber, the more Gillian became convinced that Barnard should be hired as a consultant to bring new ideas and ways of operating to the Chamber board. Part of what Barnard did was tighten up the board organizationally, relieving the Chamber’s executive director, Laurie Kokenes, of some of her duties and making the board members more involved and accountable in making the organization effective. “Christine’s skill-set complemented Laurie’s,” said Gillian, “plus new members like Neil Rembos added energy and new ideas to the Chamber.”

“Laurie and I work well together,” said Barnard. “We have complementary skillsets. She has the historical and institutional knowledge and very deep relationships with the village and other community partners. I am very well connected to young families and working moms in the area and bring more knowledge of digital outreach to the Chamber, both businesses and consumers.” So as 2019 came to a close, Gillian was willing to retain her position of leadership for a third year, feeling like the Chamber was on a roll. New members were joining and old members who had dropped out were beginning to say, “Oh, the Chamber is doing things differently.” “As 2020 began,” Gillian explained, “I said, ‘Yeah, I’ll stay on for a third term.’ Everything we had put in place hadn’t played out yet. I wanted to make an impact. I felt like we had good momentum going and I didn’t want to stop.” And then COVID-19 hit. One good thing was that the Chamber was able to pull off the St. Patrick’s Parade the week before the lockdown started. Even with the stay-at-home order, business owners were hopeful at first. “In the beginning,” Gillian recalled, “we heard everyone saying it’s not going to last that long, but then we got to the next month and it was still there. And then the next month and the next month.” As the pandemic dragged on, the Chamber, like almost everyone else, had to pivot and do things differently. Zoom, for example. “I had never even been on a Zoom call,” she said with a chuckle, “and now I have several a week.” She called Zoom a godsend because it allowed the Chamber board to continue functioning without having in-person meetings. Another change was trying to help the small businesses in town survive at the same time that the Chamber, being a small business itself, was trying to do the same thing. They applied for and received a PPP loan and cut back the hours of both Kokenes and Barnard. Functioning during the pandemic was a test for the Chamber and its members, and

Forest Park Review, December 30, 2020

OPINION O U R

V I E W

COVID quiets local ballots

e’ve worked from the assumption that the outstanding turnout of candidates for local offices in 2018 was the Trump effect. The response to the self-serving, uncaring, incompetent governance we watched in Washington during the initial two years of Donald Trump’s first and last term, drove citizens to seek office in the town where they lived, to serve in the layer of government closest to home, with the greatest impact on their lives and the lives of their neighbors. It was inspiring to watch. And, in the main, it led to spirited and respectful competitions where genuine ideas were debated about how best to educate children, the role of municipal government, and the place of park districts and libraries in substantially changed moments. We saw it in Forest Park where contested elections for mayor and village council brought new blood to village affairs. There were a raft of candidates for the elementary school board. Perhaps in Forest Park, as petition filings wrap up quietly for the coming April 2021 elections, we are seeing the COVID effect. Everyone is hunkered down at home. How do groups like 209 Together recruit candidates, and how the heck do you campaign in a pandemic anyhow? Feelings of powerlessness are pretty prevalent. In upcoming races for the District 91 Forest Park elementary school board, for the District 209 Proviso Township High Schools board, for the park district board in town, there are only enough candidates on the ballot to fill the available seats. In other words, no campaign, no discussion, no energy. It is a bit better than long past years where in some cases there weren’t enough candidates to even fill the seats and appointments were ultimately necessary. This is not a knock on any of the candidates who have chosen to run or to seek re-election. At D91, a single incumbent seeks another term. Two candidates who ran in 2018 and came up a bit short will now join the school board. And there is one newcomer who is assured election. This is not the ideal in a school district with serious challenges, an incoming superintendent, and a history of overly passive, ever-changing board membership. At the Proviso High Schools we have four open seats and four incumbents running. It is interesting that 209 Together, the Forest Park-inspired reform group that began a turnaround at D209 is backing just two of the incumbents and was not able to muster a full slate. We are openly worried that the reform movement at this fragile school district is sputtering out. And the current makeup of the school board is not inspiring. The Park District of Forest Park has one open seat and one candidate seeking it. There is a lot to like about the direction of the park district in recent years and its elected board rightly gets due credit. But over the decades the composition of this board has resembled either life sentences or endowed chairs. Take your stultifying pick of metaphors. We get the impact of COVID on every aspect of our lives. We’re not surprised to see its impact on the local election roster.

Top religion stories of 2020

ere are my picks for the most significant religion stories of the past year:

COVID-19 Following Gov. J.B. Pritzker’s guidance, most Forest Park religious congregations stopped holding in-person worship services. Some frustration was expressed at not being labeled an essential service, especially when liquor stores were. Congregations met for worship via ROKU, YouTube, Zoom and Line. Depending on what phase the state of Illinois was in, faith communities began cautiously reopening with limited numbers of worshipers, socially distanced from each other. Here’s how St. John Lutheran Church tried to walk the thin line between holding worship in-person and being responsible from a public health point of view: From the third week of March through May they conducted small, carefully controlled communion appointments that lasted a little over 10 minutes. After several weeks of that, they moved back to having a maximum of 40 worshipers in the sanctuary with the congregation divided in half and coming to church on alternating Sundays. All the CDC precautions are in place. Pastor Leonard Payton reported that during this time they have experienced no known positive tests among members.

graphic change and dwindling worship attendance is by partnering with other churches or merging. As part of an initiative called “Renew My Church,” implemented by the Archdiocese of Chicago, St. Bernardine Catholic Church here in Forest Park has been placed in what the archdiocese is calling a “Grouping” together with the two Catholic parishes in River Forest and the four parishes in Oak Park. St. Bernardine’s pastor, Fr. Stanislaw Kuca, explained that the archdiocesan strategy is designed to give parishes in each Grouping an opportunity to 1) build relationships, 2) support each other, and 3) collaborate on already scheduled programing.

TOM HOLMES

CROP Hunger Walk raises $100K Forest Park resident Joanne Despotes is the chair of the Hunger Walkathon West planning team. In March they lowered expectations for the amount of money to be raised on the 2020 walk, scheduled for May 3. The 2019 walk had taken in $70,000 and the team agreed that because the walk would be virtual, they would be happy with $30,000. After May 3, the donations kept pouring in until on Oct. 6 she sent the team an email with “We actually raised $100,000 for Hunger Walkathon West in 2020!” One team member responded with “Wow!!!!!!!!!!!” Indeed. Thai church thrives St. Paul Thai Lutheran Church celebrated its 35th anniversary this year and the fact that they have given over $1 million to what church folk call “benevolence.” What is remarkable about this achievement is that immigrant churches rarely survive more than 30 years. What happens is that the first generation speaks the language of the country they came from better than English; their children speak English better than, in this case, Thai; and their grandchildren might understand just a few words. Each succeeding generation becomes more assimilated into American culture. The Thais now own the building on Dixon Street where they rented from the original St. Paul congregation, which shut down 10 years ago. Renew My Church One way in which congregations respond to demo-

PTMAN Rev. Bill Teague, pastor of Hope Tabernacle on Dixon Street, is the executive director of the Proviso Township Ministerial Alliance Network (PTMAN). The community-focused organization of church leaders believes that Christians are called to step outside the church walls and work with stakeholders to improve the communities in which they are located. PTMAN programs include monthly breakfast networking meetings, the Backpack Project for students, Truancy Project, Youth Summer Internship Project, Pastor Preachers Wives Conference, Meet the Candidates Forum, Monday Prayer for Clergy, Summer Tent Revival and First Responders. Living Word helps businesses The Joseph Business School, an arm of Living Word Christian Center, has been helping small business owners who were disproportionately affected by COVID-19. The Joseph Business School was established in 1998, the result of a vision given to Dr. William “Bill” Winston to provide practical business and leadership teaching utilizing biblical principles and resources. The mission is to develop successful Christian entrepreneurs who will create income and employment opportunities for others, through the wealth and job creation that entrepreneurship and vocational training can provide. This, in turn, will assist in the rebuilding of the inner cities.

(Soon-to-be) Pastor David Mercurio Until three weeks ago David Mercurio and his wife Piyamat were every-Sunday worshipers at St. Paul Thai Lutheran Church. At an age when most people are making plans for taking it easy in retirement, he has just completed a three-year-long, mostly online course of study called TEEM, Theological Education for Emerging Ministries. Mercurio, like many of his classmates, will continue in his profession as an investment banker, but on weekends he will serve one of the over 1,000 ELCA congregations in the U.S. that cannot afford a full-time pastor. Like most mainline denominations the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America is scrambling to recruit Continued on next page

Forest Park Review, December 30, 2020

O B I T U A R I E S

Peggy O’Connell, 97 True to her heritage Margaret M. “Peggy” O’Connell, 97, died peacefully at her home in Forest Park on Dec. 13, 2020. The only child of Mae and Jim, immigrants from the west of Ireland, her dear Aunt Hannah was like a second mother to her. From her family, she learned to deeply love language. It was a joy to hear her recite favorite poems and quote her Aunt Han’s wise sayings — always appropriate, whether in English or Gaelic. When she was only 2, she and her mother made a rare trip back to the old country. After Mass one Sunday, she decided it was only polite to declare “Byebye, baby God!” — after all, she had just been in His house. “Listen to the Yankee babe!” the bemused churchgoers remarked. True to their Irish heritage, her family spent many happy hours at the horse races at Arlington. Once, the gangster Bugs Moran gave his box seats to Peggy and her mother. After graduating from Trinity High School in River Forest and completing a secretarial program at DePaul University, she devoted the next 49 years to the Chicago Rivet & Machine Co., rising through the ranks to become an officer of the company. In retirement, she volunteered in the English Department office at Triton College. She enjoyed the senior programs offered by the Howard Mohr Community Center and was always up for the mystery trips. She was a member of St. Bernardine Catholic Church and the West Suburban Business and Professional Women.

PEGGY O’CONNELL

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Peggy was preceded in death by various cousins, including Ann McGinnis and Mary Jo Fowler. She is survived by her cousins Dan (Valerie) Ursini, Sandy (Dan) Henson, Katie (Steve) Johnson, Dan Henson, Michael (Mary Beth) Ursini, Jerry Ursini, and Sarah (Levi Wier) Ursini, Nora (Mike) Rice and son Owen, and Jenny Ursini. A celebration of Peggy’s life will be held at a later date.

Sharon Schwanderlik, 72 ‘Seed packet’ Hometown real estate broker Sharon Schwanderlik, 72, of Forest Park, died on Nov. 20, 2020. She moved to 16th and Marengo in the early ’70s. She loved being the Forest Park “Hometown Real Estate Broker” and enjoyed helping her neighbors though the home-buying process. If you lived in Forest Park long enough, you would remember her flyers with seed packets every spring. Sharon was the wife of Daniel; the mother of three sons, Jeffrey, Daniel (Emily) and David (Elizabeth); the grandmother of seven, Ashley, Charlie, Rachel, Katelyn, Danny, Lauren and Avery; and the daughter of Robert and Margaret Stanford. Due to COVID-19, a celebration of her life will be held in the spring.

SHARON SCHWANDERLIK

HOLMES continued from page 11 trained leadership to serve its many small and shrinking faith community. TEEM is one fast track program designed to help meet that need. Forest Park Baptist, OK without a pastor Pastor David Steinhart retired from his ministry at the Forest Park Baptist Church over a year ago, and the COVID-19 pandemic has prevented the Harlem Avenue congregation from interviewing candidates to replace him. But the congregation is carrying on because of the strong lay leadership that Steinhart mentored during his long tenure. Forest Parkers take care of each other Not a religion story per se, but the countless anecdotes of neighbors helping neighbors during the pandemic is, at least in my book, a spiritual story.

Our Community Needs Community Journalism It’s not just about crime reports and board meetings. We also need inspiring, funny, heartwarming and, at times, heartbreaking stories about our friends, neighbors and children. Perhaps now, more than ever.

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Forest Park Review, December 30, 2020 New local ads this week

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ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT The Village of Oak Park is seeking qualified candidates for the position of Administrative Assistant in the Public Health Department. This position provides a variety of responsible administrative and analytical functions; records and monitors department budget and fiscal requirements of grant-funded programs; oversight of Accounts Payable process; prepares reports and serves as a resource for computerized office applications. Applicants are encouraged to visit the Village of Oak Park’s website at http://www. oak-park.us/jobs. Interested and qualified applicants must complete a Village of Oak Park application. First review of applications will be January 20, 2021.

Senior M&A Consultant (Mercer (US) Inc. - Chicago, IL) Provide leadership & infrastructure dvlpmt, mgmt & improvement. Reqts: Bach deg or a foreign equiv in Buss Admin, or a rel + 6 yrs of progressively resp exp in the job offd or a rel. Must have 6 yrs of progressively resp exp w/: Working on multiple workstreams & multinational consulting projects; Dvlpg detailed project work plans across multiple workstreams, incl ability to identify & manage key dependencies; Working across various areas of HR, incl benefits, compensation, workforce, labor, culture, & compliance; Dvlpg & executing on scope of work & proposals using product & mkt knowl; Analyzing workforce demographics, identifying trends & assessing risks using MS Excel, IBM SPSS, & OrgVue; Analyzing labor costs; reviewing & analyzing projected finl statements, balance sheet, income statement, & trial balances to understand costs; Identifying potential risks & fin’l implications of transactions on human capital rltd expenditures; Interpreting data to conduct compensation benchmark studies; & Project mgmt. 10% national & intl travel is reqd to various & unanticipated company & client sites. MMC invites applicants to submit resumes online at http://www.mmc.com/careers/mmc. php using Keyword # R_105158. EOE.

BUSINESS MANAGER PART TIME The River Forest Park District is seeking applications for a PT Business Manager working 20 hours a week. Starting Salary $26.45$31.26/HR. A full Job Description can be reviewed at www.rfparks. com/job-opportunities PART TIME HELP WANTED SPOTLESS CARWASH at 7343 Roosevelt and 7802 Madison St in Forest Park is in need of an attendant. We are looking for someone who likes to be outside and is friendly and likes people. The duties are to meet and greet customers, spray their wheels and perimeter of the car with soap, wipe the windshield with the sponge on a handle to prep a car before entering the automatic bay. Make change, sell tokens, automatic and self serve wash instructions, keep the lot, equipment room, and perimeter clean, and empty garbage cans. Pay is $11.00 per hour. The hours an attendant is on duty are 9-5 on weekdays 9-4 on Saturday and Sunday. If you can ﬁt any of these hours on a part time basis we can work with you. Please come to 7343 Roosevelt Rd. in Forest Park to pick up anapplication. 708-771-2945.

SUBURBAN RENTALS

OFFICE SPACE FOR RENT RIVER FOREST–7777 Lake St. *1116 sq. ft. suite *569 sq. ft. with patio OAK PARK–1053 Lake St. *Entire 3rd Floor, 1275 sq. ft. OAK PARK– 6142-44 Roosevelt Rd. *3 and 5 room office suites Strand& & Browne Strand Browne 708-488-0011 708-488-0011

SUBURBAN RENTALS FOREST PARK 2BR 2nd ﬂoor, 5 large rooms, 2 bedroom w/ 1 car garage. Stove, refrig & water included. Walk to transportation. No Pets. Tenant pays own heat & electric. 1 mo. security. $1100. Avail. now. 630-279-8111 OAK PARK: ROOSEVELT/ OAK PARK AVE. CORRIDOR 2BR 4RMS close to blue line. On site laundry, parking, heat & water incl. $1200/ month 708-383-9223

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:

Thank you

ELECTRICAL Ceiling Fans Installed

A&A ELECTRIC

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

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HANDYMAN

WANTED VINTAGE FISHING WANTED Vintage wooden ﬁshing lures, vintage lure boxes, empty or full, vintage tackle boxes, vintage ﬁshing rods and reels, minnow buckets, even vintage hooks, sinkers EVERYTHING. Email CJ cnewton@seologic.com

Mike’s Home Repair

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

FIREWOOD

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708-296-2060

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

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

773-637-0692 Ask for John

HAULING

www. suregreen landscape.com

BASEMENT CLEANING

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FLOORS

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ELECTRICAL

KLIS FLOORING INC.

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

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

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Attention! Homeimprovement pros!

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HEATING/ AIR CONDITIONING HEATING AND APPLIANCE EXPERT Furnaces, Boilers and Space Heaters Refrigerators Ranges • Ovens Washer • Dryers Rodding Sewers Lic/Bonded 25 yrs experience

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708-785-2619 or 773-585-5000

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

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PLASTERING McNulty Plastering & Stucco Co.

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PUBLIC NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICE The Village of Oak Park --Office of the Village Engineer, 201 South Boulevard, Oak Park, Illinois 60302-- will receive electronic proposals until 10:00 a.m. on Thursday February 4, 2021 for Project: 21-20, Oak Park Avenue Water and Sewer Main Improvements- North Contract. This legal notice replaces the notice published last week. Bids will be received and accepted, and bid results posted via the online electronic bid service listed below. In general, the improvements consist of the installation of ductile iron water main, including valves, domestic service lines, fire hydrants, a private lead water service replacement option, and precast valve vaults; installation of sewer main, precast manholes, drainage structures, and sewer services; pavement patches at utility excavations, curb and gutter, sidewalks, restoration of landscaped parkway areas, and all appurtenant work thereto. Plans and proposal forms may be obtained via the electronic service starting on Thursday January 14th, at 4:00 p.m. Plans and proposal forms can be found at https://www.oak-park.us/yourgovernment/budget-purchasing/ requests-proposals or at www. questcdn.com under login using QuestCDN number 7441090 for a non-refundable charge of $30.00. The Village of Oak Park reserves the right to issue plans and specifications only to those contractors deemed qualified. No bid documents will be issued after 4:00 p.m. on the working day preceding the date of bid opening. All prospective bidders must prove they are pre-qualified by the Illinois Department of Transportation before receiving bid documents. The work to be performed pursuant to this Proposal is subject to the Illinois Prevailing Wage Act, 820 ILCS 130/0.01 et seq. THE VILLAGE OF OAK PARK Bill McKenna Village Engineer Published in Wednesday Journal December 30, 2020

Starting a New Business in 2021? Call the experts before you place your legal ad! Publish your assumed name legal notice in • Wednesday Journal • Forest Park Review • Riverside/Brookfield Landmark • Austin Weekly News Call Mary Ellen for details: 708/613-3342

Forest Park Review, December 30, 2020

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 PUBLIC NOTICES

PUBLIC NOTICES

PUBLIC NOTICE Notice is hereby given, pursuant to “An Act in relation to the use of an Assumed Business Name in the conduct or transaction of Business in the State,” as amended, that a certiﬁcation was registered by the undersigned with the County Clerk of Cook County. Registration Number: Y20005443 on December 14, 2020 Under the Assumed Business Name of ARISE LIFESTYLE & FITNESS with the business located at: 1135 HANNAH AVE 2, FOREST PARK, IL 60130. The true and real full name(s) and residence address of the owner(s)/partner(s) is: IYIOLA ADEBAJO 1135 HANNAH AVE 2 FORST PARK, IL 60130, USA

PUBLIC NOTICE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on Tuesday 19 January 2020 at 7pm in the Council Chambers of the Village Hall , 517 Des Plaines Ave., Forest Park, Il. the Forest Park Zoning Board of Appeals will conduct a Public Hearing regarding a request for a conditional use for drive-thru facilities at 7201 Madison St. legally described as follow:

Published Forest Park Review 12/23, 12/30/2020, 1/6/2021

LEGAL NOTICE The Village of Oak Park --Office of the Village Engineer, 201 South Boulevard, Oak Park, Illinois 60302-- will receive electronic proposals until 10:00 a.m. on Monday February 1, 2021 for Project: 21-19, Oak Park Avenue Water and Sewer Main Improvements- South Contract. This legal notice replaces the notice published last week. Bids will be received and accepted, and bid results posted via the online electronic bid service listed below. In general, the improvements consist of the installation of ductile iron water main, including valves, domestic service lines, fire hydrants, a private lead water service replacement option, and precast valve vaults; installation of sewer main, Cured In Place Pipe (CIPP) lining of combined sewer main, precast manholes, drainage structures, and sewer services; pavement patches at utility excavations, curb and gutter, sidewalks, restoration of landscaped parkway areas; brick parkway removal and replacement; implementation of a detour; and all appurtenant work thereto. Plans and proposal forms may be obtained via the electronic service starting on Monday January 11th, at 4:00 p.m. Plans and proposal forms can be found at https://www.oak-park.us/yourgovernment/budget-purchasing/ requests-proposals or at www. questcdn.com under login using QuestCDN number 7441108 for a non-refundable charge of $30.00. The Village of Oak Park reserves the right to issue plans and specifications only to those contractors deemed qualified. No bid documents will be issued after 4:00 p.m. on the working day preceding the date of bid opening. All prospective bidders must prove they are pre-qualified by the Illinois Department of Transportation before receiving bid documents. The work to be performed pursuant to this Proposal is subject to the Illinois Prevailing Wage Act, 820 ILCS 130/0.01 et seq. THE VILLAGE OF OAK PARK Bill McKenna Village Engineer

LOTS 10 AND 11 AND LOT 9 (EXCEPT THAT PART DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS: BEGINNING AT THE SOUTHEAST CORNER OF SAID LOT 9 IN BLOCK 4 IN C. AND J. SCHLUND’S SUBDIVISION OF BLOCKS 25, 26, 27, 28, 38 AND 39 IN RAILROAD ADDITION TO HARLEM; THENCE ON AN ASSUMED BEARING OF NORTH 00 DEGREE, 00 MINUTE, 00 SECOND WEST ALONG THE EAST LINE OF SAID LOT 9, A DISTANCE OF 10.00 FEET TO A POINT; THENCE SOUTH 44 DEGREES, 55 MINUTES, 31 SECONDS WEST, A DISTANCE OF 14.16 FEET TO A POINT ON THE SOUTH LINE OF SAID LOT 9; THENCE NORTH 89 DEGREES, 51 MINUTES, 02 SECONDS EAST ALONG THE SOUTH LINE OF SAID LOT 9, A DISTANCE OF 10.00 FEET TO THE POINT OF BEGINNING; AND EXCEPTING THAT PART KNOWN AS PARCEL OB20058 IN CASE 96L50409, DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS: COMMENCING AT THE SOUTHWEST CORNER OF SAID LOT 9; THENCE NORTH 89 DEGREES, 07 MINUTES, 05 SECONDS EAST (ASSUMED), A DISTANCE OF 8.50 FEET ALONG THE SOUTHERLY LINE THEREOF TO A POINT OF BEGINNING; THENCE NORTH 42 DEGREES, 54 MINUTES, 06 SECONDS EAST, A DISTANCE OF 47.79 FEET TO EASTERLY LINE OF SAID LOT 9, SAID EASTERLY LINE BEING ALSO THE WESTERLY RIGHT OF WAY LINE OF HARLEM AVENUE, (ILLINOIS ROUTE NO. 43); THENCE SOUTH 00 DEGREE, 46 MINUTES, 24 SECONDS EAST, A DISTANCE OF 24.50 FEET ALONG SAID RIGHT OF WAY LINE; THENCE SOUTH 44 DEGREES, 10 MINUTES, 20 SECONDS WEST (SOUTH 44 DEGREES, 55 MINUTES, 31 SECONDS WEST, RECORD), A DISTANCE OF 14.16 FEET TO THE SOUTHERLY LINE; THENCE SOUTH 89 DEGREES, 07 MINUTES, 05 SECONDS WEST, A DISTANCE OF 23.00 FEET ALONG SAID SOUTHERLY LINE TO SAID POINT OF BEGINNING); ALL IN BLOCK 4 IN C. AND J. SCHLUND’S SUBDIVISION OF BLOCK 25, 26, 27, 28, 38 AND 39 IN RAILROAD ADDITION TO HARLEM IN THE EAST ½ OF SECTION 12, TOWNSHIP 39 NORTH, RANGE 12, EAST OF THE THIRD PRINCIPAL MERIDIAN, IN COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS. Commonly known as 7201 Madison St, Forest Park, Illinois. PIN(s): 15-12-436-017-0000, 15-12436-018-0000, 15-12-436-019-0000 The applicant is Jay Javors for Chipotle

Published in Wednesday Journal December 30, 2020

Further information can be obtained by calling the Department of Public Health and Safety at 708-615-6284.

❄❅❆❄❅❆

Published in Forest Park Review 12/30/2020

PUBLIC NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICE The Village of Oak Park will receive sealed bids from qualified suppliers at the Public Works Center, 201 South Boulevard, Oak Park, Illinois 60302 Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. local time until 10:00 a.m. on Monday, January 11, 2021 for the following:

REAL ESTATE FOR SALE

local employees...

REAL ESTATE FOR SALE

happy employees!

Village of Oak Park 2021 Water & Sewer Repair Parts and Materials Bid Number: 21-108 Bid documents may be obtained from the Village’s website at http://www.oak-park.us/bid. For questions, please call Public Works at (708) 358-5700 during the above hours. Published in Wednesday Journal December 30, 2020

REAL ESTATE FOR SALE

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT CHANCERY DIVISION DEUTSCHE BANK NATIONAL TRUST COMPANY AS TRUSTEE FOR HIS ASSET SECURITIZATION CORPORATION TRUST 2007OPT1, MORTGAGE PASSTHROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2007-OPT1; Plaintiff, vs. CHARLES T. GRANT; JUANITA J. GRANT AKA JUANITA LACOURT; PRAIRIE PLACE AT 6436 ROOSEVELT CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION; UNKNOWN OWNERS AND NON RECORD CLAIMANTS; Defendants, 19 CH 14415 NOTICE OF SALE PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above entitled cause Intercounty Judicial Sales Corporation will on Tuesday, January 19, 2021 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. 16-18-428-043-1019 & 16-18428-043-1064. Commonly known as 6436 Roosevelt Road, Unit 311, 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 Law Clerk at Plaintiff’s Attorney, The Wirbicki Law Group, 33 West Monroe Street, Chicago, Illinois 60603. (312) 3609455. W18-0641 INTERCOUNTY JUDICIAL SALES CORPORATION intercountyjudicialsales.com I3161076

Hire Local. Place an ad on Wednesday Classified’s Local Online Job Board. Go to ForestParkReview.com/classified today! Contact Mary Ellen Nelligan for more information. (708) 613-3342 • maryellen@ForestParkReview.com

Forest Park Review, December 30, 2020

(708) 366-8989 INC., REALTOR

7342 MADISON ST, FOREST PARK, ILLINOIS 60130

Happy New Year from Our Family to Yours So close to the end of this gruesome year. And so close to reaching our ‘stretch goal’ in fundraising. Our readers are generous and we are grateful. Since November began, we have been posting fundraising matches and more fundraising matches. Each time our readers have met that challenge. Last week, since we ran out of matches (maybe we’re not supposed to tell you that) we set one final goal of raising another $10,000 to help fund our independent newsroom for 2021. As of Monday morning, Dec. 28 we are half-way to that new goal. We’d like to get there, we’d like to beat it by the time 2020 finally gives up the ghost at midnight on New Year’s Eve.

If you’re able, we’d appreciate your help. If you have already joined us as a member then our deep thanks. We love what we do across our seven neighborhoods from the West Side to the near west suburbs. We have plans to do more and better in the new year. Be part of it. With gratitude, Dan Haley Editor and Publisher, Growing Community Media

To donate, visit www.growingcommunitymedia.com/donate

Forest Park Review, December 30, 2020

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