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Vol. 39, No. 2

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January 10, 2024

Brookfield’s response to migrant buses PAGE 7

Also serving North Riverside

@RBLandmark

Survey shows teacher dissatisfaction at RBHS PAGE 14

New name, same owners for Brookfield Bank

Quarry quandary

Entity forms new holding company

By AMINA SERGAZINA Staff Reporter

The First National Bank of Brookfield has announced that it has formed a new holding company, Brookfield Bancshares, Inc. It is also simplifying its name and will now be known as Brookfield Bank.

RResidents id ffear ddust iisn’t’ safe f STORY ON PAGE 5

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The Landmark, January 10, 2024 Note from the Publisher

Our readers step up as GCM beats $250K goal As 2024 begins, all of us at Growing Community Media have nothing but gratitude to our readers who helped us reach and exceed our ambitious year-end fundraising goal of $250,000. This is, by far, our largest campaign ever and it sets the stage for a strong 2024 in our nonprofit newsroom.

Nearly 900 of our neighbors made an investment in GCM during our three-month effort. Here is the list.

Deb & Tom Abrahamson* Jim & Rose Adamec Kimberly Adami-Hasegawa Jahred Adelman Susan Adler Paul Aeschleman Jeffrey Weissglass & Jeanne Affelder Skyler Aikerson Jill & erson Leland & erson Mamie & ry Doris Angell Ann & Gene Armstrong Michelle Arnold Laverne Arp Roberta Asher Associated Bank N.A. Fund, a fund of the Greater Green Bay Community Foundation Babou Fund at Schwab Charitable Cecelia Bacom Carolyn Baird Nick Baker Karen & Mike Baldwin Kathryn Balk Judy Banks-Johnson Timothy Bannon Todd Bannor David Barker Brad Bartels Katherine Bateman Jean Baugh James Baum Sandra Baumgardner Marion & Jonathan Baumgarten Mary Beach Susan Beach Debbie Becker Paul & Leah Beckwith Jordis Bednar Stephan Benzkofer Jean Berg Lin Beribak Linda Bernat Nancy Bernhardt Ruth Bernhardt Annie Berni

James Berton Margaret Bertucco B Best Family Fund Vicki Bielanski Mary Bird Hilda Birney Jack Bizot Sara Blair Marc & Dorie Blesoff* Sharon Bloyd-Peshkin William Bobco loretta bober Marcin Bogacz Linda Bonner Alice Boomhower Karen Borgstadt Barbara Boril Mark Boroughf Elizabeth Botts David Boulanger Melissa Bowen John Bowes Anne Bowhay Gary Boxell Mary Boyaris Tom Braam Martin Bracco Thomas Brean Mark Breen Glenn Brewer & Karen Haskins-Brewer Richard Brey John Brofman Patrick Brown Kevin Brubaker Craig Brumund Kathleen Bucholtz Cedes Buck Sara Buehler Daniel Burke T.J. & B.J. Burke Miriam Burkland Denise Burns James Burns RJ Busky Megan Butman John Byrne Joyce Callahan Susan Campbell Felicia Cannon Patrick Cannon Charles & Verna Capouch Mary Carol Carey Mark Carroll

Siusan Cartland-Bode Michael Cassin Marilee Castaneda Javier Castro Jette Castro Centuries & Sleuths Bookstore Joyce Champelli Emile Charest John Chase Noel Chavez ALK Snow Fund, Chicago Community Trust Nancy Chmell Judy Chrisman Lauretta Christensen Lesley W. Christien Thom Clark Amanda Clark Nancy Clark* Ellen Cleary Kelly Clissold Barbara Coats Mary Beth Cobleigh-Beal Donald & Frances Coe Kristen & Mark Coe Midge Cogan Joseph Coglianese Marty Colchamiro Bonnie Coleman Michelle Collins Roy & Michele Collins Gary Collins* LaVerne Collins* Judith Compton Kathleen Corcos Michelle Cordogan Therese Cormack Catherine Costello Alice Cottingham Jon Coughlin Ann Courter Jolyn Crawford Brian Crawford* Mary Ellen Creighton Stephen Crilly Jack Crowe Joyce & Kevin Cullinane Timothy Cunningham John & Susan Curran Jeff & Ann Currie M/M Curtin Norma Cutsforth Ellen Cutter

*These are GCM boardmembers and 2023 Matchmakers

David Cwik Wendy & Al Daniels Katherine Danko Diane Dannenfeldt Jack & Mary Darnall Nancy Darnall Judy Das Gupta Rupa Datta David King & Associates Dan Davidson MJ Davidson Joshua Davison Judy Davy Pam & Pat Deady Mary Ann DeBruin Melinda Degucz John Dempsey Janel Dennen* Ted Denning William Depriest Richard Deptuch Peter Devlin John Dickens Paul Dickerson James Dickert Mary Dickie Joshua Ditelberg Timothy Divis Collete & Douglas Dixon Mary Dodd-Lieberman Greg Domanowski Mavis Donahue Clara D’Onofrio Mark Donovan & Mary Ludgin Andrew Doten Mary Dowling Jay & Katie Doyle Susan Doyle Jan Dressel Suzanne Dubin Carol Dudzik John Duffy Mary Duffy Pelzer John Dumas Margo Dumelle John Dwyer William Dwyer Ella Eastman Matthew Ebbing Judith Eckberg Erika Edmonson Jenni Edsell Culvin Edwards Steve & Andrea Edwards* Pat Eichenold Christine Eichinger Ardyth J Eisenberg Susan Elfant James Elsener Craig Endicott Victoria Engelhardt Louise Engert Wendy Epstein Heidi Ewell Deborah Fallahay Angela Farnham Karen Faust Carrie Felix Margaret Ferroli Lane Kim Fideler Robinson Yolanda Fields John Filipkowski Geoffrey Fingerhut Elizabeth Fischer

Lynne Fisher Liz Fitzgerald Caitlin Fitzharris Michelle Fitz-Henry Heather Fitzpatrick Kristin Flanders Michael Fleisher Cheryl Flinn Allan Flynn Deirdre Flynn John F. Flynn Jennifer Ford Maureen Ford Melissa Ford Michael Fortman Jeffery Foster Chris Frantisak Kim Freeark Elizabeth Freeland Leslie Fulton John Gagliano Judith Gaietto-Grace Thomas Gallagher* Judith Galleazzi Agustina Gandarilla Elizabeth Gardner John Garofalo Marian Garrigan Mark Gartland Jim & Louise Gates Christine Gavlin Paul Gegenheimer Tony-O Georgeson Mina Gerall Eric & Angela Gershenson Jake Gerstein Bettina Getz Joan Gibbons Elaine Petkovsek & Jim Gill Michael Gill Bradley Ginn Dale Glowacki Monica Glowinski Jeanne Goedert Alan Goldberg Katie Frankle & David Goldman Craig Goldwyn Brian Gomoll Good Heart Work Smart Allen Goodcase Michael & Peggy Goodman Norma Goose Kantor Gregory Gordon Erika Gosker Sudhanva Govindarajan Joyce Gradel Anthony Graefe Kathleen Graffam Beverly Graham John Grant Bruno Graziano Beryl Greenberg Susan Greenberg Marjorie Greenwald Bill & Judy Greffin* Chris & Kori Grumboski Anthony Grzeskowiak Michael Guerin Joan Gumbel William Haddad Carol Hafeman Dan Haley John & Julia Haley* Mary Haley*

Kathleen Hall Matthew Hall Josephine Halpin Kristen Halverson Brian Hameiser Judith Hamje Nancy Hammond Michael & Janet Hanley Bruce & Kathy Hansen Suzanne Haraburd* Scott Hardesty Mathew Hargrave Carolyn Harris Roberta Harris Steven & Lenore Harris Nancy Hartman Robert Havey Richard Hay Carolyn Hayes Thomas Healey MaryAnn Heard Eilene Heckman Robert & Nancy Heezen Linda Heffernan Mary Heidkamp Beth Heiferman Philip & Patricia Heil Joel Heinz Ray Heise Frank Heitzman Gordon Hellwig Anne Hennessy Joan Henzl Rosemary Hepner Tom Herbstritt Meg Herman Stephen Herseth Nancy Hess Diane Hettasch Edgar Hiestand Lisa Higgins Lynne & Bill Higgins David Hilbert Ellen Hildner Katherin Hillmann Jerry Hills Carolyn Hobaugh Charles Hoch Leslie Hodes Lynn & Alan Hoffstadter* Barbara Hofmaier & David Heim Thomas Hogan Lilian Hohmann Deborah Holdstein Tom & Nancy Holmes Dean Holub Chee-Young Kim & Andrew Hoog Case & Pat Hoogendoorn* Stephen Hopkins Colleen Horrigan Allison Houha Judith Frei & Lawrence Howe Gary Howell Kimberly Hoyt Janice Huang Marge Hubacek Marsha Hubbuch Kristen Huber Michael Hughes Ruth Huston Bonnie Hutchison Kathy Hymson

Mary Ann Irvine Amy Jacksic James Jackson Erik Jacobsen Daina Jakofsky Stuart Jamieson & Brenda Barnes Edward Jepson* Jason & Tina Johns Elaine Johnson Erik Johnson Steve Johnson Janis Johnston Marcile Jones Mary Ann Jorfan Bernice (B.C.) Juettner Barbara Kahn Kara & Robert Kalnitz Sophie Kaluziak Jon Hale & Lynn Kamenitsa Sandra Kanak Bob Kane Robert Karrow Sandra Karuschak Art Kazar James Keen Keitel Bouman Family Fund of the Oak Park-River Forest Community Foundation Colleen Keleher Margaret Kell Randall Kelso John Kelty Susan Kelty Pam Kenney Donna Kenyon Kathy Kernan Janice Kieckhefer Jeffery Kiel Therese Kielp Philip & CarolJean Kier Geralyn Kilcoyne Cynthia Kleidon Jonathan Klem Susan Klock Troy Klyber Dennis Kmiec Ken Knasiak Dan Knight Pauline Koch Paul & Patricia Koko Michael Kolkebeck Mindy Kolodziej Barbara Kolowski Wendy Kopala Alice Kopan Rich Kordesh* Michael Koss Nancy Kovach Jay Kozie Lorraine Kozon Alan Krause Renata Krempl Daniela Krivak James Krohe Michael Kruley Marie Kruse Ellen Kuner Laurian Kyritz Claude L’Heureux Linda Labelle Terri Lackey Hans Lagoni Mary Lally Mary Lambke

The Landmark, January 10, 2024

Amy Landefeld Neil Lane Kathy Lareau Leslie Lauderdale Karl Lauger Lucas Laurel Dennis Lavelle Nancy Leavy Ralph Lee John W. Lee III Ginny Lee-Herrmann Madonna Leen Lynn Leinartas Patrick Leone Dan Lesser Deborah Levine Deborah Levine & Kimberly Becker David Lewis Lydia Lewis-Brandt Daniel Lheureux* Arthur Lifshin Gloria & Gerald Lindaur Elizabeth Lippitt* Ross Lissuzzo Thomas Litwiler Jane Llewellyn Phil & Zan Lofgren Elan Long Lois Thiessen Love Martin & Cathleen Lucas Carlotta Lucchesi Kathryn Lucht Sandra Luckins Cathy & Larry Lund John & Nell Lurain James Lynch Marjorie Lyon Daniel MacDade Denise Mackey Klancic Jessica Mackinnon Karrick Major Michelle Major Alicia Malloy Mary Anne Manley James Mann Sharon Manuel James Marciniak Kate Marek Catherine Marienau Mark Maroney Aida Marranzini Suzanne Marshall Richard & Linda Martens David Martin Mildred Martin Marylen Marty Elaine Marzal Myrtle & R.G Mason M Massarello Roger Masson Ann Masur* Frank & Patricia Matousek Alex Matthews Laura Maychruk

Jane McClelland Anna Clare McDermott Judith McDevitt Joseph McDonald Sheila McDonnell Mary McEnery Laurene McHatton John McIlwain Donna McKune Richard McLeese Bob Mead Christopher Meglan Jean & John Meister Joan Meister Teresa Melcher David Mendell Patricia Menges Alan Meyer Veronica Meyer Ben Meyerson Charles & Pamela Meyerson Mike Michaelsen Melissa Mickelberry John Mihelic Bart Miller Dorothy Misleh Carole & Larry Mitchener Mohr Oil Co. Patricia Montroy Betty Moore Maurice & Toni Moore D. Morawski Candice Moretti Leigh Morgan Mary Morgan Lucinda Moriarity Lindsay Morrison Gloria Morrissey Robert Moser Woody Mosgers Mary Movrich Sharon Moyer Elisabeth Muhlenberg Karen Mullarkey Kerrins Maria Mungai Karen Muriello Anne Murphy Dennis & Bunny Murphy* Margaret Murtagh Donna Myers* Zachary Nauth Donald Nekrosius* Brendan Nelligan Mary Ellen Nelligan* Alison Nelson Diane Nelson John Neu Eugene & Louisa Newberry Carolyn Newberry Schwartz Michelle Newman Bill Niro Robert Novalich Donald O’Brien Adekunle & Kathy Onayemi Thomas & Christine Ondrla

Paul Oppenheim Bridget Optholt Karen Osborne Donna Oswald Jewel Otten Elizabeth Overland Kathryn Owens Lorraine Owles Jennifer Packheiser Barbara Pagniucci Lynne Palmore John-Paul Paonessa Allen & Georga Parchem Dan Parker Steven Parker Susan Parker Robert & Susan Parks Elizabeth Parsons Barbara Paterick John Patrick Julie Patterson Libbey Paul Beth Pecenka Mary Pellegrini Pamela Penney Jeanne Peppler Priscilla Perkins Janet Perryman William Peterman David Peterson Lauren Peterson Joan & Jeffery Petertil Edward Petrick James Petrzilka Sharon Phillips Diane Pickard-Richardson Liz Picone Danielle Pierro Susan Piha Thomas Pivarski Mary Plunkett James Podraza Mike & Lynette Poirier Mike Poleski Frank Pond Al Popowits Joyce Porter Mary Ann Porucznik Deborah Postlewait Teresa Powell* Aldona Prackaila Margaret Prechel James Prescott Allison Price Marvin Price Paul Price Margaret Provost-Fyfe James Pryor Lorelei Przybylski Susan Purdie Susan Quinn The Quinn Pasin Family Philanthropic Fund R.P. Fox & Associates Inc. Joan Radovich

N. Raftery Brenda Rakers Carol Rao Constance S. Rapps Diane Ratekin & Tom Yates Edward Rausch Shirley Redmond Nancy Reed Vicky Rehill David Reisberg Frederick Reklau Ruth Reko Mary Reynolds Lisa Ridolfi Gayle Riedmann Peter Rijks Elizabeth Ritzenthaler John & Katie Roberts Susan Roberts Cyndi Robinson Patrice Roche Andy Rodriguez George Rogers Katharine Roller Ron Roman Anne Rooney Alice Rose Lindsey Roseen Diana Rosenbrock Amy Rosenthal Barbara Rossa Jennifer Royer Karen Rozmus Mark Ruda Dolores Ruffolo Kathy Russell Ann Marie Ryan Michael & Linda Ryan Steven Spiewak & Beradette Ryan Paul Sakol Susan Saliny Glenn Sameshima Silvana Santilli Marian & Bob Sassetti-Kent Steve Saylors Meredith Schacht Carol Schaffer Mike Schech Lynn Scheir James Scherrer Marianne & David Schiavone Abby Schmelling Tyler Schofield Thomas Schouten Robert W. Schramek Janet Schroeder Jeff & Linda Schroeder Kathleen Schroer Dale Schuette Rich Schuler James Schwartz Laurie Schwartz Sylvie Schwartz

Schwarzbach Family Foundation Mark Scott Norah Scott Judith Scully Sear’s Pharmacy G R Segal Sandra Seim Benjamin Sells Dorothy Seman Clancy Senechalle Robert Senechalle Lisa & Jason Sensat Lynda & Paul Shadrake Rupa Shah Matthew Shanahan Joel Sherr Darnell Shields* Louis Shorr Brendan Short Renee Sichlau Nancy Sidman Mary Pat Sieck Brooke Sievers Kimberly Silver Dawne Simmons Peggy Sinko Victor Skade Renee Slade Joan Slanina Diane Slezak Helene Slowik Adrienne Smith Barbara Smith Chris Smith Leslie Smith Mary Kate Smith Mike Smolarek Louise Snyder Edward Solan James Soldat Joan Soldwisch Jacqueline Solfronk Sheila Solomon* Alec Harris & Carollina Song Gisela Sonka Doug & Martha Sorensen Sharon Spooner Susan Sporte* Rachel Stark Amy Stearns Michael Stefanik Ruth Stefl Heather Stelnicki Louise Stevens Jill & Dave Stewart Linda Stewart Max Stewart Gary & Maura Stockmann Laurie Stokes Isaac Stopeck Joni Strand Riverside Strategies Maureen Stratton Kirsten Straughan

Pamela Strauss Robert Streit M/M Strohl Catheve & Gary Strokosch David Strom David & Elisabeth Strong Meghan Strubel Daniel Sullivan Mark Sullivan Fran Sullivan* Carrie Summy Michael Surratt Richard Swanson Theodore Tamul Christine Tanner Pamela Tate Melissa Taub John Taylor Martin Tellalian Glena Temple Cheryl Terhorst Margaret Thayer The Conroy Family The Jaklevic-Schuster Fund The Maura O’Hara & Robert Wielgos Charitable Fund The Sachem Company The Smylie Family Charitable Fund at Schwab Charitable The Wilkinson Mango Family Fund Mary Thomason Judy Thompson Kaia Thompson Laura Thompson Mark Thompson Cecelia Thornton Dana Todd Marne Trevisano Campbell Robert Trezevant* Rogene Tubman Beverly Tuck Robert Tucker J. Turko Anne Kelly Turner David Ubogy Carol Ungaretti Linda Valentine Van Deurson/Iseli Fund Laurie Van Wieren John Vander Laan Doug Varn Jane Verry-Hastings Cristine Vesely Lorene Vickery Donald & Mary Vogel* Kathleen Vogt Laurie & Karl Volz Sandy Vomacka Janice Von Arb Mary Sue Voth Walter Wahlfeldt Mark Walden Gordon Waldron

Mary Walke William Wallace Marietta Walsh Pam Walsh Margaret Walsh* Debra Walters Joan Monica Wanat Brandon-Dawson Warner Barbara Watkins* Deborah Watrach Vicki Watts Theresa Wawzenek Rosemary Weber Susan Weber Zarine Weil Eric & Tina Weinheimer* Terrie Weir Marc Weiss Nile Wendorf* Norah West Michele Wheeler Patrick White Jonathan Wilder Dina Wilensky Deborah Wilhelm William C. Brauneis Fund Carolyn Williams Suzanne Williams Timothy Wilson Camille Wilson White Jim Wisuri Mark & Victoria Witt Jerry & Betty Wojtak Susan Wolfe Kenneth Woods Mark & Randi Woodworth Nancy Woulfe Donald & Celine Woznica Kathy Wyant Kevin Wyderka David Yamashita R. Yankow Dean Yannias Catherine Yen* Victor Yipp Stephen Yogya Cosmas Zachos Margaret Zak Karen Zaremba Julie Zeller Steven Zeller Mary Ziegler Claudia & Leo Zinanni Maureen Zinsmeister Michele Zurakowski

Thanks to our donors who helped us make our Dec. 31st goal!

Support and donate here:

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The Landmark, January 10, 2024

BIG WEEK

Friday Afternoon Movie Friday, Jan. 12, 1 p.m., North Riverside Village Commons Join the Village Commons for a screening of their movie-ofthe-month on their big screen this Friday. Admission, fresh popcorn, and refreshments are all free so take this perfect opportunity! It’s like going to the movies without having to empty your pockets. However, if you and your family would like to attend, you must reserve your spot by calling the Parks and Rec Department at (708) 442-5515. 2401 S. Desplaines Ave.

January 10-17 Seedlings Group

Saturdays, Jan. 13 - Feb. 3, 9 a.m. - 10 a.m., Brookfield Zoo Bring your toddler over to the Family Play Zoo to participate in four weekly classes that teach your child to be friendly with the planet. Each session consists of hourly fun that includes different play experiences, music, and visits by animal advisors.

Animal advisors bring fluffy, friendly members of the beloved zoo to meet your little boy or girl. There is a restriction of one parent per child due to limited space. Come play with your child rain or shine. They will thank you later. Hurry, spots are limited. Book your sessions at czs.org/family. There is a charge for this event. 3300 Golf Rd. CZS/BROOKFIELD ZOO

The Jolly Ringwalds Saturday, Jan. 13, 8 p.m. - 11 p.m., Pub 78 What do you know about the 80s? 80s themed nights at Pub 78 are the best. … and people say the 80s are dead. The Ringwalds will be playing at the pub on Saturday to bring back the most beloved 80s music for all those who lived through the years and learned how to get down.

This 1980s era band will knock your socks off.

Additionally, if you want to have more fun, come dressed up in your fav 80s attire. 3733 Grand Blvd.

Intro to Digitization

Tuesday, Jan. 16, 7 p.m., LSF Brookfield Library The modern age has forgotten all about VHS and cassettes, but what happens if you have precious memories stored within them? Learn about all the tools the library has available in the Editing Studio to digitize your physical media. You can get your VHS tapes, cassette tapes, slides, and photos converted to digital formats. Don’t fret — this is a beginner-friendly class, and walk-ins are welcome. 3541 Park Ave.

Speculating About Our AI Future

CORY DOCTOROW

KEN LIU

MARTHA WELLS

Thursday, Jan. 11, 7 p.m., LSF Brookfield Library Does AI have you fearing a possible robot takeover? If so, register for the Zoom link to this virtual panel discussion featuring three best-selling science fiction writers, Cory Doctorow, Ken Liu, and Martha Wells. They will discuss the promise, perils, and possible impacts that AI will have on our future, as well as AI in contemporary and future science fiction writing. This event is made possible by Illinois Libraries Present, a statewide collaboration among public libraries offering premier events. 3541 Park Ave.

Compiled by Grace Harty Contributing Reporter

EncryptHer Saturday, Jan. 13, 1 p.m., LSF Brookfield Library Don’t you know Girl Code? I mean… the other girl code. The library is calling all girl coders. Designed for Grades 3-5, this monthly STEM class will cover topics like cybersecurity, computer science, and online safety.

Students will learn new skills and develop problem solving abilities with hands-on activities. EncryptHer meets at the library one Saturday each month and is presented in both English and Spanish. 3541 Park Ave.

CALENDAR EVENTS ■ If you would like your event to be featured here,

please send a photo and details by noon of the Wednesday before it needs to be published.

We can’t publish everything, but we’ll do our best to feature the week’s highlights.

Email calendar@wjinc.com.

The Landmark, January 10, 2024

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Residents concerned around safety of McCook Quarry The company says it’s safe

By AMINA SERGAZINA Staff Reporter

In 2019, federal McCook Quarry transitioned from surface mining to underground operations, raising safety concerns among nearby residents.

Four years later, Giovanni Barraza, a homeowner in Brookfield, voiced his and his community’s worries about potential structural damage and dust from underground quarry blasts.

“The vibrations from the blasting have caused visible cracks in the walls, ceilings, and foundation of my home,” Barraza stated at a Brookfield board of trustees meeting last month.

Heidelberg Materials, a company that runs the quarry, uses the resources to produce construction materials for roads and buildings and often supplies the Department

of Transportation, according to Jeff Sieg, director of corporate communications. The company has installed seismographs at the quarry and select residential properties to monitor ground motion and ensure operations remain within safe limits.

In response, Sieg mentioned the installation of air monitors at the blasting sites.

“Most of the dust is contained due to the underground setting. Surface mining did produce more dust, but it’s uncertain if current dust issues are related to blasting,” he said.

“We have buildings and properties onsite, so it’s counterproductive to cause damage to our assets or those in the neighborhood,” Sieg explained.

Quarry blasting typically occurs six days a week, Monday through Saturday, between 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. However, the quarry is in its regular seasonal shutdown, which began on March 14, 2023, and will last until early spring 2024, while the company sells its materials.

If residents encounter dust, it could be crushed stone, which Sieg assures is a

natural and safe material. He emphasized the company’s open communication with residents, informing them of blasting changes through in-person visits, emails, calls, and messages.

Sieg encourages those suspecting blastrelated damage to contact Heidelberg Materials, promising evaluations by company personnel.

Despite concerns, Sieg said he does not foresee an end to quarry blasting due to the valuable natural resources it provides.

Tim Wiberg, Brookfield’s village manager and a member of the quarry committee, noted the village’s lack of authority over

blasting, which is regulated by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources’ state guidelines.

He added that after the Dec. 11 meeting, he reached out to Barraza and explained the same information.

The quarry committee, which meets quarterly, reviews resident complaints but often finds no grounds for action. “Most complaints simply report a low blast from the previous day, leaving us with no specific issues to address,” Wiberg said.

Residents with grievances can reach out to the Lyons Township Quarry Council hotline at 1-866-934-3278.

Read it online at www.rblandmark.com

Presented by

Brookfield Chamber of Commerce Business Spotlight

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Don’t Miss Dancing with the Chamber 2024

t was so much fun the first time, we’re doing it again! Dancing with the Chamber, Brookfield’s own “Dancing with the Stars” is a dance competition (and fundraiser) between 10 Brookfield business owners.

This years contestants, instructed by and paired with dancers from Sway Dance Chicago, are preparing to show you their moves and show each other who deserves to be crowned champion in 2024.

Tickets will be on sale soon as well as the unveiling of this year’s contestants so mark your calendars and be on the lookout for more information.

Saturday, April 27, 2024 7:00 - 9:00 pm Riverside-Brookfield High School 160 Ridgewood Ave. Riverside, IL 60546

- For Tickets and info visit: www.brookfieldchamber.net/events/2024dwtc

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The Landmark, January 10, 2024

IN THIS ISSUE Calendar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4 Crime . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10 Classified . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23 Opinion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19 Obituaries. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19 Sports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21 Editor Erika Hobbs Staff Reporters Amina Sergazina, Amaris Rodriguez Digital Manager Stacy Coleman Digital Media Coordinator Brooke Duncan Design/Production Manager Andrew Mead Editorial Design Manager Javier Govea Designer Susan McKelvey Sales and Marketing Representatives Lourdes Nicholls, Ben Stumpe Business & Development Manager Mary Ellen Nelligan Circulation Manager Jill Wagner EMAIL jill@oakpark.com Publisher Dan Haley Special Projects Manager Susan Walker

BOARD OF DIRECTORS Chair Judy Greffin Treasurer Nile Wendorf Deb Abrahamson, Gary Collins, Steve Edwards, Darnell Shields, Sheila Solomon, Eric Weinheimer

HOW TO REACH US ADDRESS 141 S. Oak Park Ave., Oak Park, IL 60302 PHONE 708-442-6739 ■ FAX 708-467-9066 E-MAIL erika@growingcommunitymedia.org ONLINE www.RBLandmark.com The Landmark is published digitally and in print by Growing Community Media NFP. The newspaper is available on newsstands for $1.00.

A one-year subscription costs $41 within Cook County and $51 outside the county. Advertising rates may be obtained by calling our office. Periodical rate postage paid at Oak Park, IL (USPS 0019-585). Postmaster send address corrections to Landmark, 141 S. Oak Park Ave., Oak Park, IL 60302. © 2024 Growing Community Media NFP.

Riverside’s National Historic Landmark status is expanded The whole village is now recognized for its historical and architectural significance

By AMINA SERGAZINA Staff Reporter

The Village of Riverside has received an official approval from the U.S. Department of the Interior to expand its National Historic Landmark status, which recognizes its historical and architectural significance.

On Dec. 11, 2023, U.S. Secretary of the Interior Deb Haaland wrote a letter approving the updated documentation for the historic district in Riverside. The letter stated that the decision was made after careful study by the National Park Service, extensive opportunities for public involvement, and review and recommendation by the National Park System Advisory Board.

National Historic Landmarks are listed in the National Register of Historic Places, making them eligible for the safeguards and benefits provided by the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966 and other federal laws protecting historic properties1 The Village of Riverside was designated a historic landmark by the U.S. Department of Interior in 1970, becoming one of the first planned communities in the nation to receive this honor. However, the original boundaries of the NHL did not include the entire village, leaving out some areas that were also part of the original design by Frederick Law Olmsted and Calvert Vaux, who also designed Central Park in New York City.

The new boundaries will include the area west of 1st Avenue, on the north by Ridgewood Road, and on the west by Golf Road. This will encompass the entire village, which is known for its distinctive landscape design, curvilinear streets, and historic buildings.

“It was just a great honor to be asked to help the village get this designation,” said

FILE

Lisa Lambros, the chairwoman of the landscape advisory commission, which worked with the preservation commission and the historical commission to prepare the updated documentation.

During a recent board meeting, president Douglas Pollock thanked the commissions for their help in the approval process. Trustee Aberdeen Marsh-Ozga, who is also a liaison to the landscape advisory commission, said that the boundary extension and recognition of the entire village was a great honor.

“The Landscape Advisory Commission is taking a special look at this new area in the coming years to ensure consistency with the

other planting areas within the rest of the village,” Marsh-Ozga said. “Having the protection of the national landmark designation, which carries with it a higher level of scrutiny for any federal projects that come through as to the impacts and effects on the area, is going to be a great protection.”

The designation means that Riverside has a high level of national significance and contributes to the understanding and appreciation of the history and culture of the United States. It also means that Riverside can benefit from various preservation incentives, such as grants, tax credits, technical assistance, and protection from adverse effects of federal actions.

The Landmark, January 10, 2024

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Brookfield limits migrant drop-offs

The actions come at Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson’s request, officials say

By AMINA SERGAZINA Contributing Reporter

The village of Brookfield has joined several other Chicago suburbs in passing an ordinance to regulate unscheduled bus stops that bring migrants from the southern border.

The ordinance, which was approved by the village board special meeting Jan. 3, requires transportation companies to submit an application to the village at least five days before making a stop at the village and dropping off people.

The village will respond within four days and may approve or deny the request.

Brookfield village president Michael Garvey said the immigration issue is out of the village’s hands and that this issue is a federal government’s responsibility.

“National immigration policy is not something that’s within the purview of the village board,” Garvey said. “That’s what the federal elected officials are, that’s their responsibility. We don’t take a position on that as a board or individuals.”

Garvey added that the village does not have any long-term facilities or shelters to accommodate the asylum seekers, who are mostly from South and Central America. However, he said, if there is an emergency situation, the village will protect people’s safety and transfer them to the city of Chicago.

“We would protect people safety as long as we could and then we would transport them to the city of Chicago and Cook County, which is what we were asked to do by the mayor of Chicago,” Garvey said.

AMINA SERGAZINA

James Miller speaking during the Brookfield Board of Trustees meeting on Jan. 9.

The ordinance comes amid a record surge of migrants arriving at the U.S.-Mexico border, driven by worsening economic and political crises in their home countries.

According to the latest Customs and Border Protection data, authorities encountered more than 300,000 migrants nationwide in December, the highest monthly

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total ever recorded during the Biden administration.

The Biden administration has faced criticism from both sides of the political spectrum for its handling of the migrant crisis. While some immigration advocates have called for greater protections and humanitarian aid for the migrants, some

Republicans have accused the administration of being too lenient and failing to secure the border.

Some of the migrants have been transported by bus or plane to other parts of the country, including the Chicago area, where they are either placed in shelters or released to await their immigration hearings.

However, some bus operators have been dropping off migrants in suburban locations without prior coordination, causing confusion and frustration among local officials and residents.

Several Chicago suburbs, such as Forest Park, Hinsdale, Joliet and Buffalo Grove, have passed similar ordinances to Brookfield’s, requiring advance notice and approval for migrant bus drop-offs. Some have also imposed fines or penalties for violating the rules.

The measures have sparked a debate over the role and responsibility of local governments in dealing with the migrant influx.

While some have argued that the ordinances are necessary to ensure public order and safety, others have denounced them as discriminatory and inhumane.

During the Brookfield Board of Trustees meeting on Jan. 9, one resident spoke up about his opposition to the migrants coming into the community. James Miller, a Brookfield resident of 30 years, said that the migrants are a gateway to drugs, disease and crime.

“Illegal aliens entering our country and being sent to various places,” Miller said.

“This is an assault on our sovereignty, illegal and unconstitutional. Government is of the people by the people for the people.”

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The Landmark, January 10, 2024

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The Landmark, January 10, 2024

9

BROOKFIELD BANK New look from page 1 Phil Richard, the CEO and president, said customers will notice a new logo and a more modern website but that the bank’s local connections and decisionmaking will stay the same.

Brookfield Bank is here to stay as an independent, community bank, he said.

Richard emphasized the importance of small banks and his bank’s resistance to being bought out by a larger entity.

“We have a very local, responsive management team so we make our decisions in-house,” Richard said. “Whereas a lot of the big banks don’t have local management, they have committees that are not located in the community so therefore they lose that personal touch and the ability to make decisions that help the local market.”

The decision to form a holding company allows the bank greater flexibility and the recent approval of the new entity by federal regulators reflects the bank’s improved financial performance, said Richard. Like many banks, First National Bank of Brookfield took a hit in the 2008 real estate crash.

It was left with a considerable number of nonperforming loans on its books.

The shift to a holding company will not affect the bank’s ownership. The same individuals who owned the bank now own shares of the holding company instead of the bank shares directly, said Richard.

Richard emphasized that for bank customers everything will remain the same, but the formation of a holding company provides greater flexibility in supporting local markets and community banking.

“It’s the same owners looking to keep doing the same mission and supporting the local market and the community

FILE

First National Bank of Brookfield, 9136 Washington Ave. banking, it just gives us greater flexibility to do that,” he said.

Richard added that is common for banks to have a holding company and it gives the bank more flexibility to reduce financial risks and raise capital.

In addition to these changes, the bank is undergoing a rebranding process, including

Growing Community Media a non-profit newsroom

the simplification of its name.

Although the official name will remain the same, for marketing purposes, the bank will now be referred to as Brookfield Bank.

Richard also mentioned that the bank’s website and logo will be updated as well for a more modern look, with the help of a local freelancer from the western suburbs.

“If you’ve looked at our website recently, it’s in need of an update, it’s a little older and more traditional,” Richard said.

“Just a shorter fresher updated look,” The new website will highlight the bank’s community involvement and support for local businesses as well as become more intuitive and offer new features.

We’ve got YOU covered.

Donate today at RBLandmark.com/donate

10

The Landmark, January 10, 2024

P O L I C E Driver arrested with DUI A driver was arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol last Tuesday morning after hitting a concrete median and failing field sobriety tests, according to the North Riverside Police Department.

The driver was stopped by an officer around 12:30 a.m. near First Avenue and Cermak Road, after the officer observed the driver’s vehicle crossing the solid yellow lines, speeding and striking the median.

The driver had a moderate odor of alcohol, bloodshot, glassy eyes and slurred speech, according to reports.

The driver admitted to having “some beers” at a bar in North Riverside, but denied striking the median or speeding.

The driver agreed to take a preliminary breath test, which showed a blood alcohol level of 0.119, well above the legal limit of 0.08. The driver was then taken into custody and transported to the police station, where he refused to take a second breath test.

The driver was issued citations for improper lane usage, speeding, driving under the influence of alcohol and DUI.

He was also charged with violating the village ordinance for striking the median, which resulted in an administrative hold on his vehicle.

The driver was released on pre-trial bond and given a court date in February.

He became angry and threw his bag of property against a glass door before leaving the station, police said.

Three arrested after brawl at Fun Flatables Three people were arrested and charged with battery after a fight broke out at a mall inflatable park last Tuesday evening, according to the North Riverside Police Department.

The fight occurred at Fun Flatables, an indoor play area with inflatable slides and bounce houses, inside the North Riverside Park Mall.

Police said the fight started after two women got into an argument over their children’s behavior in one of the inflatables.

The argument turned physical after one woman pushed the other, who then

R E P O R T S pushed back.

The boyfriend of one of the women then joined the fray and hit the other woman in the face.

Mall security officers tried to break up the fight, but got elbowed in the face and another officer got punched. Police arrived and detained the three suspects.

Women were charged with one count of battery each. The man was charged with two counts of battery, one for hitting the woman and one for assaulting the security officers. They were all released on pretrial bond and banned from the mall.

Man steals groceries from Amazon Fresh A man was arrested for stealing $1,767.83 worth of items from Amazon Fresh Grocery in North Riverside Tuesday.

North Riverside police officers responded to a call from the store manager, who reported a man stuffing items into a green Amazon bag.

The man was identified and had previously committed a similar theft at the store, according to the manager.

He left the store without paying and got into a green Chevy Cavalier with another person. The officers stopped the vehicle and detained both occupants. They recovered 77 items, mostly shaving razors and personal hygiene products, from the car.

The man confessed to the theft after being read his Miranda rights. He was charged with one count of class three felony retail theft by the state’s attorney.

The other person was released with a no trespass warning.

These items were obtained from the Brookfield Police Department and North Riverside Police Department reports dated Jan. 1-7 and represent a portion of the incidents to which police responded.

Anyone named in these reports has only been charged with a crime and cases have not yet been adjudicated. We report the race of a suspect only when a serious crime has been committed, the suspect is still at large, and police have provided us with a detailed physical description of the suspect as they seek the public’s help in making an arrest.

Compiled by Amina Sergazina

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The Landmark, January 10, 2024

11

Unions turn to state after year of higher ed labor action Report finds public university employees paid 21% less than state agency workers in similar jobs

By ANDREW ADAMS Capitol News Illinois

At public universities across the state, staff and faculty unions have faced a contentious year of negotiations and, in some cases, strikes.

Pay has been a major issue on several campuses and the unions are now looking to Springfield for potential reforms to the state’s higher education funding.

At Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, negotiations are ongoing between campus leadership and the union that represents clerical workers.

Amy Bodenstab, who works as an office manager in the Department of Teaching and Learning, also picks up weekend shifts at a local domestic violence shelter and contract work in data analytics to make ends meet.

She is on the bargaining team of AFSCME Local 2887, which has been without a contract since June 2022. She said the low pay and perceived lack of respect has resulted in high turnover rates, hampering university staff ’s ability to do their jobs.

She said it’s especially troubling because of the complexity of the positions her union represents, which can involve financial management, purchasing, scheduling and more.

“If you’re staff, you’re treated as ‘less than,’” Bodenstab told Capitol News Illinois.

Nicole Franklin, a spokesperson for the university, declined to comment specifically on the ongoing negotiations but said the university “continues to bargain in good faith” with the union.

But Bodenstab’s experience is echoed on other campuses around Illinois.

In mid-November, dozens of building services, clerical and culinary staff at Eastern Illinois University held an “informational picket” as negotiations continued between the local union and administrators at the Charleston campus.

“The number one issue is pay,” Kim Pope, an office manager and the head of the local union, said.

Negotiations between the building services workers at Northern Illinois University are also ongoing. The head of the union there, Patrick Sheridan, also said pay is the focus of negotiations.

CAPITOL NEWS ILLINOIS PHOTO BY ANDREW ADAMS

Valerie Goss, the head of the faculty union at Chicago State University, and Illinois Federation of Teachers President Daniel Montgomery embrace at an April 3 rally on the campus of Chicago State University.

Research published this fall by the Illinois Economic policy Institute, a think tank with strong ties to organized labor, found that pay for staff at state universities is 21% less than the rate paid to employees at state agencies who are performing the same or similar work.

When controlling for hours worked, occupation and several demographic factors, the research found the average staff pay at state universities is 14% less than at state agencies.

Robert Bruno, a University of Illinois professor in the School of Labor and Employment Relations and lead author of that report, said these trends made him consid-

er the impact on staff morale.

“You worry about turnover, about positions not being filled, about if people don’t feel regarded or respected,” Bruno said.

He also noted these trends could be explained by an ongoing trend in higher education.

“It starts to look like a more for-profit model,” he said. “Part of that is a lack of support at the state level.”

That research and recent university staff negotiations have led union organizations to begin planning a bigger request to the state in next year’s budget talks – an ask that could prove challenging as early estimates from Gov. JB Pritzker’s budget-

ing office project a revenue shortfall for the upcoming fiscal year.

“We’ll be pushing for an appropriation that can be earmarked for wages,” Anders Lindall, a spokesperson for the statewide AFSCME organization, said.

He specifically pointed to Bruno’s research as part of the reasoning for this push.

“We’re going to be talking to legislators about these systemic pay gaps,” he said.

AFSCME is one of the most powerful lobbying organizations in Illinois. In the 2022 election cycle, AFSCME, through its state council and national organization, spent See UNION on page 16

eally where ence a blast color is a d has verse

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The Landmark, January 10, 2024

Winter 2024

Education and

Enrichment

Guide

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Art Reinforces Learning and Critical Thinking

hyllis Frick, owner of Frick Kids Art, believes art is an integral part of learning and builds critical thinking skills. Lessons may explore how water and oil don’t mix, observe microscopic organisms that become abstract paintings or collaborate with Mathnasium to turn math concepts such as tessellations and tangrams into art.

Process Art, the exploration of materials, rather than focussing on the outcome, is the underlying method used at Frick Kids Art. Children make their own choices from a buffet of materials to facilitate decision making skills that are key to building self esteem, confidence, and pride in ownership. “Look at my masterpiece!” and “I wonder what would happen if…” are comments frequently overheard during classes at Frick Kids Art. An Oak Parker states “I brought my

grandkids, ages 3 and 5, to a really fun and fascinating art project where Ms. Frick taught them how science and art intersected. They had a blast experiencing how motion and color came together in their art. She is a natural with young children and has good experience with neuro-diverse populations.”

And a mother from Burr Ridge explains, “Mrs. Frick’s art classes are the highlight of our kid’s week! She encourages critical and creative thinking and classes are always well prepared with some insightful background, a bit of art history, practical instruction and very importantly...they're FUN!” If you’re looking for art classes and camps that are individualized and that emphasize curiosity, imagination and unique outcomes, check out Frick Kids Art for Pre-K through sixth graders.

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The Landmark, January 10, 2024

YOUR

RBHS teachers give principal low marks in survey

LIFE

Freytas says it’s an opportunity to improve

BEST

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By BOB SKOLNIK Contributing Reporter

Many teachers at Riverside Brookfield High School do not trust or think highly of Principal Hector Freytas and the instructional leadership at the school, the results of a state-mandated survey showed.

In the category of “teacher-principal trust,” he received a rating of very weak from teachers on the 5 Essentials survey that was conducted last year as part of the annual Illinois School Report Card.

The 5 Essentials Survey is an online survey of students, teachers and parents that was developed by an arm of the University of Chicago. It focuses on five areas that are deemed vital for school improvement: effective leaders, collaborative teachers, supportive environment, ambitious instruction and involved families. RBHS received a designation of very weak in the effective leaders category and a designation of neutral in the other four categories.

School board president Deanna Zalas cautioned about putting too much weight on any given category.

“We need to look at all the aspects but I’m not sure that taken by itself it’s a significant data point,” she said.

Only 60.5% of the school’s teachers responded to the survey. The relatively low response rate could have affected the ratings and it contrasts with the state’s average response rate by teachers at 75.6%.

Of those responding, 78% rated Freytas as a poor manager, with 42% of them strongly disagreeing with the statement that the principal is an effective manager who makes the school run smoothly.

Another 62% of participants either disagreed or strongly disagreed with the statement: “I trust the principal at his or her word,” with more than half saying they disagreed or strongly disagreed with the statement “the principal takes a personal interest in the professional development of teachers.”

Freytas received better marks on making decisions for the best interests of kids with 59% of teachers either agreeing or strongly agreeing that Freytas makes decisions makes decisions based on what is best for

students and not because of personal or political interests.

His score on instructional leadership was even lower, netting a score of just one rating system, with about two-thirds of teachers saying that the school’s leadership doesn’t know what is going in on their classrooms and does not communicate a clear vision for the school.

Freytas, however, told the Landmark that he sees his low ratings from teachers as an opportunity for improvement.

“It’s an opportunity to be better, you know I strive to be better every single day, every week, every month, every year,” said Freytas, who is known for his positive outlook on life. “So first and foremost, I just saw it as an opportunity to be better.”

Freytas said that in this new semester he will visit classrooms on a weekly basis in attempt to build stronger relationships with teachers and focus on instruction.

While the primary evaluators of teachers are the new division heads, Freytas said that he plans to do more classroom visits and observations this semester.

“I’m going to be conducting a weekly, kind of walk through, I need to be in the classrooms more where I build those relationships,” Freytas said. “We have our formal evaluation process, but I need to do more of it.”

Freytas said that he wants to get to know his staff better.

“There are some teachers that I know better than others and I need to know all my staff,” Freytas said. “I need to be intentional about getting into the classroom, doing those visits, and following up with the teaches that I don’t evaluate on a regular basis.”

There has been a perception among some that Freytas, who attends many school events and is relentlessly positive and encouraging to students, is more of a cheerleader for the school than an instructional leader.

“I’m loud and proud so I could see people saying ‘hey that’s one of his strong avenues’ but I do more than that,” Freytas said. “I’m involved in everything we do, in every decision we make as a school but, again, I take ownership for results and my job is to be better.”

Freytas said that the school has been revamping its professional development work to take more advantage of in house expertise.

“I’m hoping that those are powerful and I’m hoping that those kind of begin to move the needle on instructional leadership,” Freytas said.

Beyond the numbers Other administrators at RBHS preferred not to focus too much on the survey results and instead pointed to other accolades the school has received such as its exemplary rating on the 2023 school report card.

“It’s an anonymous survey that’s taken at one point in time,” said District 208 Superintendent Kevin Skinkis. “I’m not sure if everybody takes it. It’s a good data point for Dr. Freytas and his team to continue to work on.”

Skinkis said that he has a high degree of confidence in Freytas and assistant principal for curriculum and instruction Kylie Lindquist.

Lindquist said that the 5 Essentials survey results are something to take note of and work on but not the final word.

“That says something, we look at the data, we’ve been engaging teachers around the data, engaging as an administrative team around the data and really looking at what are these survey results saying,” Lindquist said. “For me it’s a moment in time, a snapshot of a moment in time. I think when you look at 5 Essentials survey results versus some of the accolades that we’ve gotten this year: first time as an exemplary school, AP access award, Gold Honor Roll status, there’s a disconnect so you really have to dig in and figure out what does this mean, what is this saying and you can’t get too hung up on what the actual number is.”

The survey was completed in the early portion of 2023 before RBHS switched to a new division structure of instructional leadership shifting away from the past structure of instructional coaches. Now there are four divisions: Humanities, STEM, Career and Technical Education, and Special Education instead of instructional coaches for every department.

“This is kind of our response to the data and previous data points as well,” Freytas said.

Lindquist said that she believes the new structure is working well.

The head of the teachers union at RBHS, Spanish teacher Jessica Maurtizen, did not respond by deadline to an interview request.

The Landmark, January 10, 2024

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The Landmark, January 10, 2024

Exotic sweet potatoes at Pete’s

S

Southern Living magazine sughopping habits are so ingrained that we many gests cooking a little longer than times buy certain foods other sweet potato varieties: 350 without giving them degrees for 90-120 minutes. Our more than a nanosecexperience is that cooking any ond of thought. At Pete’s Fresh sweet potato a little longer will yield a creamier interior.

Market on New Year’s Eve, Jersey white sweet potatoes however, I discovered this gro($3.99/lb.) look a lot like regular cery store has lots of different white potatoes, inside and out, kinds of sweet potatoes. I sudthough with slightly yellow flesh denly felt an urge to extend the that was maybe a touch moister horizons of my sweet potato than most white potatoes. Pereating experiences. haps nutty in flavor, the Jersey Japanese sweet potatoes also brought slight citrus notes ($2.49/lb.) caught my eye: Their Local Dining that made the taste of this sweet skin is a deep purplish-red, & Food Blogger spud stand apart from others. and inside a light yellow. These Such sweetness could vary based are fantastic spuds and (at on the environment where the least for me) exotic: the intepotatoes were grown. rior is lush and soft, richly sweet but with As you can see from the parenthetical other subtler flavors. prices listed above, these lesser-known sweet Googling, I found an article written just potato varieties cost more than the standard, last month by Joe Yonan (Food and Dining but they offer new tastes experiences, and editor, Washington Post)

DAVID

HAMMOND

titled, “Japanese Sweet Potatoes Are the Best,” in which he concluded, “Which do I love more, their flavor or their texture? Hard to say. They taste like buttery chestnuts, and when you bake them, their interiors get so fluffy, thanks to less moisture, they taste like a cross between a white Russet and an orange Beauregard — and somehow more appealing than either.”

DAVID HAMMOND Orange Beauregard?

Stoke purple sweet potato.

Clearly, I had to do more research on non-standard sweet potatoes. they’re kind of fun to serve and eat.

Then on New Year’s Day, I was back at We’re also very much in favor of supPete’s, searching for more exotic sweet porting less popular varieties of fruits potatoes. The long, cigar-like Stoke purple and vegetables; if farmers make a profit sweet potatoes ($3.99/lb.) look like no other. growing smaller, delicious varieties of From North Carolina, the Stokes’ purplesomewhat obscure produce, they’ll grow ness is key to their nutritional value: the more of them and that’s better for the color indicates anthocyanin antioxidants biodiversity of the planet. And it keeps our (also found in blueberries), and they contain dinner table interesting. a good amount of vitamin C and fiber.

And hey, if you spot any local stores offerLess sweet than the more familiar orange ing Beauregard sweet potatoes, please shoot sweet potatoes, this variety is somewhat dry me an email: david@dchammond.com though perhaps more versatile (because less David Hammond writes a blog for Oak sweet) than other varieties. To bring out the Park Eats. best flavor, which some describe as “floral,”

UNION

New model from page 11 $2.6 million on campaign contributions and expenditures around the state. That includes over $300,000 each in contributions to House Speaker Emanuel “Chris” Welch, D-Hillside, and Senate President Don Harmon, D-Oak Park.

In addition to staff negotiations, the past 12 months have seen a wave of strikes led by faculty unions. In January, faculty at the University of Illinois Chicago struck for five days.

In April, faculty at Chicago State University, Governors State University and Eastern Illinois University all went on overlapping strikes, lasting between five and 13 days. Northeastern Illinois University authorized a strike, although the faculty union there never formally struck.

In private higher ed, Columbia College Chicago faculty also went on an unusually long strike which lasted all of November and ended in mid-December.

Dan Montgomery, head of the Illinois Federation of Teachers, said after the Columbia strike ended that he had “never seen anything like it in any other year.”

“We’re a strong labor state. I think those trends you’re seeing play out in Illinois are playing out around the country,” Montgomery told Capitol News Illinois. “We’re just better organized.”

Montgomery said he is “cautiously optimistic” that a new funding model being developed by the Commission on Equitable Public University Funding could help alleviate some of the problems that led to the strikes.

The commission, which was created by the General Assembly in 2021, is tasked with developing a new model for funding higher education. The legislature charged the commission with “remediating inequities” in the higher education system that have led to disparities in access for underrepresented students such as Black and Hispanic students and those who come from lowincome families.

The commission’s work is ongoing but was delayed by this summer’s U.S. Supreme Court decision about affirmative action and race in higher education. While the commission’s work is likely not going to impact next year’s

budget, it could create a drastic shift in the long term.

The model being developed will be similar to the funding formula used for K-12 schools in Illinois, which was rolled out in 2017. The K-12 model calls for an added $350 million in funding each year and sets a funding adequacy target for each district. It then directs greater portions of the new funding to the schools furthest from their adequacy target.

While the commission has not finalized a formula, some draft meeting materials presented at the board’s November meeting suggest it would require as much as an overall $14,000 per-student increase in state appropriations to fully fund higher education. With 130,000 undergraduates and 56,000 graduate students enrolled at state universities this year, these numbers suggest the needed funding increase could reach into the billions.

Lawmakers allocated about $4.5 billion from the state’s general revenue fund to higher education in the current fiscal year.

Any recommendations from the commission, however, would need to be approved by the General Assembly, leaving room for doubt when it comes to fully implementing – and funding – the commission’s recommendations.

“The problem is always the problem: finding the funds to do it,” Montgomery said.

The state revenue landscape could further compound the challenge. The Governor’s Office of Management and Budget is projecting an $891 million deficit for the upcoming fiscal year 2025, although that number drops to $721 million when accounting for the statutory contribution to the state’s “rainy day” savings fund.

“I think it’s a signal that everybody, we need to be careful in Illinois, we have to balance our budget…” Pritzker told Capitol News Illinois when asked about the projection earlier this month. “And so, if that requires us to reduce the increases that may occur in certain programs, maybe that will be necessary.”

Capitol News Illinois is a nonprofit, nonpartisan news service covering state government. It is distributed to hundreds of print and broadcast outlets statewide. It is funded primarily by the Illinois Press Foundation and the Robert R. McCormick Foundation, along with major contributions from the Illinois Broadcasters Foundation and Southern Illinois Editorial Association.

The Landmark, January 10, 2024

P R O P E R T Y

17

T R A N S F E R S

Riverside home sells for $640,000

The following property transfers were reported by the Cook County Clerk from September 2023. Where addresses appear incomplete, for instance where a unit number appears missing, that information was not provided by the clerk’s office .

Brookfield

ADDRESS

PRICE

SALE DATE

SELLER

BUYER

8863 Ogden Ave 4600 Maple Ave 8701 Rockefeller Ave 8645 Parkview Ave 8621 Riverside Ave 9510 Congress Park Ave 3804 Morton Ave 3605 Sunnyside Ave

$700,000 $620,000 $575,000 $502,000 $500,000 $475,000 $450,000 $437,000

07/27/2023 09/05/2023 09/07/2023 08/01/2023 09/01/2023 09/05/2023 08/25/2023 09/07/2023

A To Z Med Real Estate Llc Kierys Michael W Beutler Daniel L Tr Kutak Alyssa Locatelli Anthony D Fabrias Andrew Walden James Gergets Sean

3835 Rosemear Ave 3235 Maple Ave 8804 44th Pl 3137 Elm Ave 3914 Prairie Ave 3239 Park Ave 8916 W 47th St 3439 Park Ave 4013 Elm Ave 9542 Washington Ave 3425 Oak Ave 3130 Sunnyside Ave

$428,500 $425,000 $405,000 $380,000 $370,000 $350,000 $345,000 $310,000 $296,000 $285,000 $285,000 $270,000

09/14/2023 08/18/2023 09/05/2023 09/01/2023 08/21/2023 08/14/2023 09/21/2023 09/25/2023 09/06/2023 09/06/2023 09/14/2023 09/11/2023

4009 Deyo Ave 9416 Washington Ave 3300 Madison Ave

$245,000 $227,000 $220,000

08/21/2023 08/23/2023 08/17/2023

Evers Cheryl Ann Tr Tobin Matthew Bennett Carrasco Jose M Croke Jeffrey A First Nations Bk Martinez Jobo Rosales Mcc Holdings Llc Puentes Jacqueline Ricobene Rosario Flipping Chicagoland Inc Calixto Alejandro Chicago Title Land Trust Co Tr 8002371297 Weiss Kathryn E Tr Easton Donald H Melody Joseph

Shri Prop Llc Maas Eric R Andriusis Justin E Kumar Shiv S White Jason M Nalewski Stanley R Ii Grecco Miguel E Tr Weglarz Katherine Thorngren Tr Esslin Conrad Albiniak Michael Harast Diaz Dayna C Mosiman Daniel S Franco Martha Paschal Stephen M Sugarland Holdings Llc Condon Christopher M Walser Nick Herrera Constantino Vazquez Homero Aviles Berry Margaret C Cardona

North Riverside

Majewski Carla Olson Home Buyers Llc Strand Bryan L

7922 W 26th St 2334 Lathrop Ave 2258 S 5th Ave 2308 Burr Oak Ave 2233 S 7th Ave 2431 Forest Ave 2332 S 5th Ave

$675,000 $310,000 $310,000 $245,000 $245,000 $190,000 $160,000

08/29/2023 08/24/2023 09/18/2023 08/24/2023 08/08/2023 08/25/2023 09/05/2023

Beste Todd M Jva Three Llc Chicago Title Land Trust Co Tr 1447 Stella Salvatore A Flynn Kevin P Tr Alvarez Jimmy Judicial Sales Corp

Snickam Enterprises Llc Series I Espinoza Luis R Spale Kathleen M Mcdermott Patrick J Isasi Valentin G Nowak Holds Iii Llc Pete Highland Rlty Ltd

8815 W Cermak Rd

$1,500,000

08/29/2023

8815 Cermak Llc

Mothers Day Prop Inc

465 Uvedale Rd., Riverside

Riverside ADDRESS 465 Uvedale Rd

PRICE SALE DATE SELLER $640,000 09/06/2023 Graf Richard A

166 S Delaplaine Rd

$615,000

09/22/2023

Ballerine Joseph A

462 Uvedale Rd

$592,000

09/08/2023

Oshaughnessy Jennifer

251 Herrick Rd

$530,000

09/11/2023

Echeverria Alexander A

118 Northgate Rd

$380,000

08/24/2023

Bredeson Stephanie A

316 Gage Rd

$335,000

09/06/2023

Jooley Mary Jo Tr

560 Selborne Rd

$300,000

09/12/2023

Jodwalis John

212 E Burlington St

$210,000

08/24/2023

Pena Martin

3300 Harlem Ave

$2,176,000 09/25/2023

Mev Riverside Llc

3630 Harlem Ave

$180,000

Bustamante Peter Tr

01/27/2023

BUYER Oshaughnessy Jennifer M Mannix-Slobig Brenda J Ruiz Frank Sweetwood Jason Manipon Glenn Eumana Antonio Miguel Anderson Fredrick Berenice Isais Agree Cen Llc Ballard Nathaniel

Read it online at www.rblandmark.com

18

The Landmark, January 10, 2024

Make it a point to

HEAR This YEAR!

6905 Nor th Av Ave~Oak Park

708.445.7171

Dr. r. Chow

Opinion THE LANDMARK VIEW

Quarry’s blasting impact

W

ell, from the department of unresolvable problems, we return again to the McCook quarry. Brookfield residents returned to the village board last month with legitimate concerns over the impact on their homes from the ongoing underground blasting that takes place at the vast quarry.

A homeowner says the explosions have caused cracks in his home’s foundation, walls and ceilings.

The owners of the quarry say they use a seismic and vibration monitoring consultant. A spokesperson for the company says the readings are within proper measures and notes that it has buildings on the quarry site and they do not want to cause damage to their own assets.

The company is also dismissive of resident concerns over dust generated by the explosives, saying that, since the explosions occur underground, the dust is mainly contained.

Not surprisingly, the company also notes that blasting is the most economical way to crack rock and that is good for its customers who include the state department of transportation, which uses the materials for building roads.

There are third-party monitors who pay some attention to this inevitably unneighborly process. The Illinois Department of Natural Resources attempts to make sure work at the quarry follows state guidelines, and it has enforcement authority. A local Lyons Township Quarry Council includes Brookfield’s manager, Tim Wiberg. It meets quarterly, solicits complaints from neighbors and typically finds no cause for action from the quarry operator.

We see no path to improving this situation. Digging rock is a profitable business. The operator works, it seems, within limits that are unfriendly to any nearby residential or small commercial enterprises.

The tension seems unresolvable.

But we welcome any and all attempts by the operator to be the best “neighbor” possible under the circumstances. And if there is any recourse for homes that have suffered damage, they should be explored.

The Landmark, January 10, 2024

19

OBITUARIES

Michael Jacobs, 41 Special education teacher Michael Phillip Jacobs, 41, of Riverside, died on Dec. 18, 2023. He was a special education teacher at Oswego High School.

Michael was the son of Susan and the late Stephen Jacobs; the husband of Jessie Weller; the father of Jason, Aria, and Ellie; the brother of Tom and Meredith; and the MICHAEL JACOBS uncle of Mia, Eloise, Gianno and Aminta.

A Celebration of Life was held on Jan. 6 at Riverside Village Hall.

The family encourages everyone to post pictures, videos, and stories to the memorial website (https:// www.mykeeper.com/event/celebration-of-life257).

Michael Kleist, 47 Cared for exotic animals Michael Arthur Kleist Jr., 47, of Brookfield died on Aug. 11, 2023. Born on Sept. 27, 1975, he was a collector of oddities, took care of exotic animals, enjoyed archery, biking and outdoor activities.

Michael was the father of Amelia and Selene Kleist and the son of the late Michael A. and the late Jean (nee Karnik) MICHAEL KLEIST Kleist.

A memorial visitation will be held on Saturday, Jan. 13 from 1 to 4 p.m. at Johnson-Nosek Funeral Home, 3847 Prairie Ave., Brookfield.

Online condolences, memories and photos may be shared with the family at www.JohnsonNosek.com.

Sharon Christensen, 76 Former North Riverside resident Sharon A. Christensen (nee Zawikowski), 76, of Naperville, formerly of North Riverside, died on Jan. 3, 2024. Born on March 2, 1947, she was an avid reader,

who loved spending time with her grandchildren, doing puzzles, crosswords and playing games.

Sharon was the wife of the late Dale Christensen; the mother of Kirsten Christensen-Valkner and Matthew (Brandi) Christensen; the grandmother of Weston Valkner and Katelyn and Kellyn Christensen; the sister of Judy (Dan) Stark and the late Dennis Zawikowski; the aunt of Nathan (Erica) Stark and Laura Stark; and the former mother-in-law of Mike Valkner.

Services were held at Conboy-Westchester Funeral Home on Jan. 7. Interment was private.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are appreciated to the American Kidney Fund (www.kidneyfund.org).

Arrangements were handled by the Original Kuratko Family – Brian D. Kuratko, Director.

Vincent McGowan, 81 Owned Set Back North & South Vincent J. McGowan, 81, of Lombard, formerly of Westchester and North Riverside, died on Dec. 24, 2023. He was the owner of Set Back North & South restaurants and McGowan Construction Company.

Vince was the husband of the late Patricia; the father of Kimberly L. and Kurt V. McVINCENT MCGOWAN Gowan; the brother of Patrick (Joann) and the late Paul McGowan and the late Catherine Barnhart; the fiancé of Sonia Paul; and the uncle of Joseph and Antoinette McGowan and the late Wally, Mark and Paul Jederjak.

Visitation was held on Dec. 29, 2023 at Ivins/ Moravecek Funeral Home, 80 E. Burlington St., Riverside.

Funeral info 708-447-2261 or www.moravecek.com.

Timothy Shelven, 55 Craftsman, bluff explorer Timothy Francis Shelven, 55, of Riverside, died on Dec. 20, 2023. A lifelong resident of Riverside, He was a 1986 graduate of Fenwick High School and a 1990 graduate of Michigan State University. He spent the majority of his career as a Senior Investigator at the Attorney Registration and Disciplinary Commission.

See OBITUARIES on page 20

20

The Landmark, January 10, 2024

OBITUARIES continued from page 19 He had two favorite places in this world: the bluff of Lake Michigan and his workshop. An incredibly talented craftsman, he could design and create anything, from furniture to beautifully hand-carved Santas.

His workshop was a haven, but it was in Glenn, Michigan where he found the most peace and solace surrounded by the trees and water.

His best memories were of long summer days spent on the bluff exploring with his sons. He TIMOTHY SHELVEN also cherished time with family and friends at countless bonfires, beach walks to Pirate Cove, and cruises in his Zodiac boat along the shoreline, days filled with much laughter and happiness.

He had a meticulous nature, quick wit, and was always willing to help a friend in need. When faced with challenges, he

drew on his faith to remain positive and hopeful for better days ahead. He will be deeply missed especially by his two sons who brought him the most joy in his life.

His wish would be for us to love each other unconditionally with understanding and compassion.

Tim was the father of Joseph and Sam; the son of Therese Ann and the late Gerald; the brother of Julia Rastelli and Patrick and Nancy Shelven; the former husband of Elizabeth; and the uncle of several nieces and nephews.

Visitation was held at Ivins/Moravecek Funeral Home, 80 E. Burlington St. Riverside. Mass of Christian burial was at St. Paul VI Parish (St. Mary’s Church), Riverside, followed by private interment.

Mike Perricone, 72 Sports, parenting and particle physics Hockey reporter, stay-at-home dad, and science writer Michael “Mike” Perricone, 72, died at his home in Riverside in the company of family and friends on Dec. 9, 2023. His death marked the end of a yearslong battle with Multiple Systems Atrophy (MSA), a rare neurological illness with symptoms similar to Parkinson’s.

on the Oprah Winfrey Show.

Growing up in Brooklyn, New His freelance writing steered York, and attending Brooklyn him back to his original interest Technical High School and in science and his third career: Rensselaer Polytechnic Instiwriter and editor in the field of tute, he dreamed of becoming high-energy physics. Joining either an engineer or scientist. the Office of Public Affairs at Over time, however, his love of Fermilab National Accelerator sports and writing led him to Laboratory, in Batavia in 1997, the Chicago Sun-Times where he turned the company’s newshe enjoyed a celebrated career letter into a highly regarded bias a beat reporter, covering 12 MIKE PERRICONE weekly print magazine. In 2004, seasons of the NHL’s Chicago he helped launch Symmetry, a Blackhawks. During this time, he met Joan Vanderbeck, the woman to particle-physics magazine, and served as whom he would be married for 37 years, its executive editor.

In 2007, he retired from Fermilab but and had a daughter named Jenny Rose, stayed connected with Symmetry as a freewhose birth in 1989 triggered the second of his three careers: stay-at-home dad. Want- lance writer and began contributing an aning to be actively involved in his daughter’s nual review of popular physics books. His upbringing while his wife continued her work at Fermilab alongside many of the executive career, he quit his sportswriting world’s leading scientists also inspired him job and began the challenging and reward- to write The Big Bang, a 2009 book for young ing task of developing parenting skills. For adults that explores the early history of the the first year, he wrote a weekly column universe. In his final years, he was working for the Sun-Times called “Jenny’s Dad” in on a novel for young adults called Caged which he chronicled his chaotic and often about a prep-school hockey player strughumorous experiences as a sports reporter gling to recover from depression.

He was a frequent letter-writer to the turned parent. These columns were later published collectively in From Deadlines to Landmark newspaper.

Diapers: Journal of an At-Home Father, a The family is planning a celebration of book that landed him a guest appearance Mike’s life in early 2024.

SHE SNORES MORE SHE SNORES MORE THAN I DO, BUTSHE I STILL SHE SNORES MORE SNORES MORE SHE SNORES MORE THAN I DO, BUT I STILL LOVE MY HUMAN. SHE SNORES MORE SHE SNORES MORE THAN I DO, BUT I STILL THAN I DO, BUT I STILL THAN I DO, BUT I STILL SHE SNORES MORE SHE SNORES MORE LOVE MY HUMAN. —IMY BANDIT THAN DO,HUMAN. BUTITHAN ITHAN STILL LOVE I DO, BUT I STILL LOVE MY HUMAN. adoptedBUT 11-26-09 LOVE MY HUMAN. THAN I DO, STILL I DO, BUT I STILL — BANDIT — BANDIT MY HUMAN. LOVE adopted 11-26-09 LOVE MY HUMAN. — BANDIT LOVE MY HUMAN.LOVE adopted 11-26-09 MY— BANDIT HUMAN.

adopted 11-26-09 adopted 11-26-09 —— BANDIT BANDIT — BANDIT — BANDIT adopted11-26-09 11-26-09 adopted 11-26-09 adopted adopted 11-26-09

Sports

The Landmark, January 10, 2024

21

Organs to play softball together again at Bradley RBHS senior Emily joining transfer Hannah for two seasons

Just like at RBHS, they should have two seasons together at Bradley.

“I did not envision this at all,” Emily said.

“I was kind of set on going somewhere, my own speed, by myself, and just doing something different. At Bradley, I loved the environment and atmosphere and I loved the

By BILL STONE coaches. The thing I loved most is they’re Contributing Reporter recruiting me for me and not as Hannah’s sister. That was really eye-opening for me.

Sisters Hannah and Emily Organ had reThey want me, not just because of Hannah. solved that they probably were never going They want me to be there.” be softball teammates again like their days In their final RBHS season together, the at Riverside Brookfield High School. That 2022 Bulldogs won a Class all changed during a whirl4A regional, but Hannah’s wind December. pitching and playing time Emily, an RBHS senior, were significantly limited verbally committed to by a knee injury.

NCAA Division I BradNever undergoing surley University in Peoria. gery, Hannah gradually reThat’s also the time Hancovered through the right nah, a 2022 RBHS graduphysical therapy. ate, finalized the difficult “I haven’t had a single decision to transfer to problem with my knee Bradley from Miami Unisince,” Hannah said. versity (Oxford, Ohio).

Her school situation, howHannah played for the ever, was not ideal. She soon Braves this past spring. realized that Miami “wasn’t “I think [Emily] is going the place for me, softballto make huge contribuwise or school-wise.” tions if she keeps working She placed her name in hard and I’ve obviously the NCAA Transfer Portal, been playing with her for a known mostly for college EMILY ORGAN while,” Hannah said. “I’m football, with initial conexcited because we didn’t cerns that no one might really think this was going show interest. But she reto happen. It’s really exciting knowing, not ceived numerous contacts and quickly reonly that I’ll be able to play softball with duced her choices. Taking three visits over her again, but I’ll be able to share the great five days, Bradley was the last one. experience of college with her alongside “I didn’t think I was going to go to Bradley, me as well.” but then my gut was like, ‘This is where you The chance for Emily to break free actu- should be,’ and my gut was right,” she said. ally brought them together. They visited “It’s a great way of turning a bad situathe school together but Bradley coach Sar- tion into a fantastic one. I think I’ve grown ah Willis emphasized that she was recruit- up a lot in the past year and kind of realized ing them separately and not as “a package that doing what’s right for me is never a bad deal.” Willis often pulled them aside to choice. And it led me to a great program, a speak to them separately. great school. I can’t say enough good things

“At Bradley, I loved the environment and atmosphere and I loved the coaches.

The thing I loved most is they’re recruiting me for me and not as Hannah’s sister. That was really eye-opening for me.”

BILL STONE

RBHS senior Emily Organ (left) and Bradley sophomore Hannah Organ. about that place and I’m so glad that it ended up that we’re back together.”

Emily also reduced her short list to three schools. Committing early just happened. As a result, she played varsity volleyball this past fall after taking a year off and has continued playing varsity basketball.

“Even though I am committed, I still need to keep practicing,” Emily said. “I’m just excited that it’s more of a chill senior year because I know where I’m going.”

Hannah played six games this past spring for Bradley (15-40, 7-20 in Missouri Valley Conference). She was 1-for-5, hitting with a double in her first collegiate plate appearance. She pitched 6.1 innings over five appearances, including 3.2 in relief against Loyola and two innings with only one run allowed against Colorado State.

Emily had another All-Metro Suburban Conference season for the Bulldogs and continued travel ball with the Chicago Cheetahs under coach Paul Malito, who also coached Hannah in that age group. A shortstop for RBHS, Emily played middle infield, the corners, catcher and center field with the Cheetahs.

Willis plans to use Emily as a utility player.

“You have to know the whole field, which can make it stressful. But it’s fun playing all over the field,” she said. “[Last season] I was happy for Hannah.

A lot of people get backlash for going into the portal. I was just proud of her for going against what other people had to say and doing it for her. For a lot of other athletes, it can be life-changing for them. I was glad she was able to take that leap.”

22

The Landmark, January 10, 2024

S P O R T S

Bulldogs keep winning with a pair of close calls RBHS boys wrestlers Elzy, Mosquera take titles at Morton Invite

By BILL STONE Contributing Reporters

After winning all but one of their 2023 games by double digits, the Riverside Brookfield High School boys basketball team began 2024 with two emotional victories by a combined six points.

The Bulldogs earned a 67-63 victory over top-20 rated Lincoln Park Friday at the Hyde Park Classic, followed by a 66-64 home victory over rival Nazareth Academy, Saturday.

RBHS (15-2) led Lincoln Park 23-13 after one quarter and 37-25 at halftime but then had to fight off the Lions, who closed to 51-48 entering the fourth quarter.

Senior Stefan Cicic had a big game with 21 points, 16 rebounds and four blocks.

Mehki Austin had 19 points, 8-for-10 twopoint shooting, and three assists. Cam Mercer (11 points) and Steven Brown (10 points) also reached double figures and

Danny Loftus added five points.

Brown (23 points, 5 assists) and Cicic’s double-double (21 points, 13 rebounds) were key components in beating Nazareth. Brown made 10 of 13 shots, including three of four 3-point attempts. Mercer (11 points with 2 threes) and Loftus (5 points) also contributed.

The Bulldogs took a 48-44 lead into the fourth quarter after trailing the Roadrunners 32-30 at halftime.

RBHS boys wrestling Juniors Matt Elzy and Edgar Mosquera were champions and the Bulldogs (200 points) finished second at Morton’s Steve Eckert Holiday Classic, Dec. 28.

Elzy (13-1) won the 190-pound title, 6-4, over Morton junior Lenin Contreras.

At 113, Mosquera (20-2) was a 6-5 winner over Bolingbrook junior Isaac Harris in the final. RBHS finished 11 points behind champion Bolingbrook.

Jacob Godoy (17-9 at 132) and Josh Gonzalez (20-5 at 144) were second. Mateo Gonzalez (106) and Ricky Gutierrez-Blanco (138) were third, Jayden Tulian (120) and Max Strong (175) were fourth, Jacob Noe

BILL STONE

Riverside-Brookfield’s Cameron Mercer (5) drives to the basket against Thornwood during the Bill VandeMerkt Tournament on Nov. 24, in Brookfield.

(150) and Nathan Stanard (126) were fifth and Anthony Esposito (215) was sixth.

LTHS boys basketball The Lions (4-9, 1-3 in West Suburban Conference Silver) put forth another great effort Friday but lost 45-39 at Downers Grove North (12-2, 2-0), which finished fourth in state in Class 4A last season.

Brady Chambers (14 points, 8 rebounds), Liam Taylor (13 points, 5 rebounds) and Ian Polonowski (5 points), Michael Reilly (3 points) and Caleb Greer (3 assists) led the Lions. Back-to-back threes by Polonowski and Reilly got LTHS to within 33-32 in the third quarter.

Girls basketball

FILE

Lyons Township’s Caeden Cooper wrestles Riverside-Brookfield’s Edgar Mosquera at 113 pounds on Nov. 22, 2023 in La Grange.

LTHS (13-6) moved to 5-1 in the West Suburban Silver by beating Oak Park and River Forest High, 59-15 Saturday, behind Keira Kessler (8 points) and Elin O’Brien and Emma O’Brien (7 points apiece).

On Thursday, the Lions fell behind early but nearly rallied before losing to Geneva, 48-44, in the Grow the Game Showcase at Stevenson. Emma O’Brien had 11 points and eight rebounds for the Lions, who trailed 25-13 at halftime and were down 18

in the third quarter.

The Lions threatened at 43-37 in the fourth quarter after Emma O’Brien and Gwen Smith threes but never got closer than five down the stretch. Avery Mezan and Smith both added seven points. Elin O’Brien and Kennedy Wanless each had six.

RBHS (7-12) lost at Glenbard West, 6132 Jan. 3. Niamh Larson (11 points) and Alyssa Morris (10 points, three-pointer) reached double figures.

RBHS boys swimming, diving The Bulldogs were sixth at Hinsdale South’s Wheelock College Events Invite, Saturday. The 200-yard freestyle relay of Hayden Marrs, Lucas Hedrich, Will Kallas and Drew Rosa was third (1:31.46). Rosa was third in the 200 breast stroke (2:13.41) and fifth in the 100-yard freestyle (49.75). Diver Nate Kissel was fourth (199.60 points).

RBHS girls gymnastics The Bulldogs (113.85 points) were sixth at Andrew’s Erin Olmsted Invitational Saturday. Kayla Janusz tied for 10th on vault (8.6) and went 30.70 in all-around. Paige Phelan was 11th on uneven parallel bars (7.8).

The Landmark, January 10, 2024 23

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PUBLIC NOTICE

NOTICE TO CONTRACTORS

The River Forest Township Board of Trustees approved the following meeting dates for 2024:

Notice is hereby given by the President and Board of Trustees of the Village of River Forest, Cook County, Illinois, that sealed bids will be accepted for:

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING VILLAGE OF BROOKFIELD PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION January 25, 2024 AT 7:00 P.M.

PUBLIC NOTICE STATE OF ILLINOIS VILLAGE OF BROOKFIELD

RIVER FOREST TOWNSHIP BOARD OF TRUSTEES REGULAR MEETINGS Tuesday, January 23, 2024 Tuesday, February 13, 2024 Tuesday, March 19, 2024 Tuesday, April 9, 2024 (also Annual Meeting) Tuesday, May 21, 2024 Tuesday, June 18, 2024 Tuesday, July 16, 2024 Tuesday, August 20, 2024 Tuesday, Sept 17, 2024 Tuesday, October 15, 2024 Tuesday, November 19, 2024 Tuesday, December 10, 2024 Meetings will take place in person at 6:00 PM (except January 23 at 5 PM) at the River Forest Civic Center Authority Building 8020 W. Madison Street, River Forest, IL 60305.

The River Forest Civic Center Authority (RFCCA) Board of Managers approved the samemeeting dates.

The meetings of the RFCCA Board of Managers will take place in the same location immediately following the River Forest Township Board of Trustees meetings.

Any changes in time, date or location as well as Zoom remote participation information will be posted in advance on the River Forest Township website (www.riverforesttownship.org), at the RFCCA Building and at the River Forest Library.

Published in Wednesday Journal January 10, 2024

PUBLIC NOTICES PUBLIC NOTICE OF COURT DATE FOR REQUEST FOR NAME CHANGE STATE OF ILLINOIS, CIRCUIT COURT COOK COUNTY.

2024 Sewer Lining Improvements (Various Locations) This project consists of the installation of approximately 1,997 lineal feet of Cured-in-Place Piping (CIPP) as a sewer lining as well as other miscellaneous work required to install the aforementioned CIPP, including some manhole bench repairs, and point repairs.

The bidding documents are available for download starting Tuesday, January 9, 2024 at: www.vrf.us/bids Bids must be submitted by Tuesday, January 30, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. at: Public Works Department, 2nd Floor Village of River Forest 400 Park Avenue River Forest, IL 60305 The bid proposals will be publicly opened and read at that time. Proposals will be considered not only on the basis of cost, but also on past performance, experience and ability to perform the work.

No bid shall be withdrawn after the opening of the Proposals without the consent of the President and Board of Trustees of the Village of River Forest for a period of thirty (30) days after the scheduled time of the bid opening.

The Village of River Forest reserves the right in receiving these bids to waive technicalities and reject any or all bids.

Published in Wednesday Journal January 10, 2024

NOTICE is hereby given that the Village of Brookfield Planning and Zoning Commission will conduct a public hearing on Thursday, January 25, 2024 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 for a property located at 8845 Burlington Ave, Brookfield, Illinois 60513 (PINs 15-34-433-001-0000; 15-34-433-002-0000; 15-34-433003-0000) by Peter Haleas for a proposed 12-unit, 3-story new construction residential condominium building with enclosed parking.

Legal Description: Lots 17, 18, and 19 in Block 29 in the Subdivision of Blocks 27, 29 to 34 Inclusive, in Grossdale, a Subdivision in Section 34, Township 39 North, Range 12 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 proposed final planned development application may be viewed at the Village of Brookfield Village Hall during normal business hours. Written comments may be provided prior to 4:00 PM on the day of the public hearing to: Village of Brookfield, Planning and Zoning Commission c/o Kate Portillo, 8820 Brookfield Avenue, Brookfield, IL 60513 or at kportillo@brookfieldil.gov.

Please reference PZC Case 24-02. Oral or written public testimony may be given during the public hearing.

Individuals with disabilities requiring accommodation 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..

LEGAL NOTICE

Legal Description: UNIT NUMBER 9211 IN 9207-9213 BROADWAY CONDOMINIUM, AS DELINIATED ON A PLAT OF SURVEY ON THIS FOLLOWING DESCRIBED TRACT OF LAND: LOT B IN MRAZ SUBDIVISION OF LOTS 1 AND 2 IN BLOCK 1 IN PORTIA MANOR, BEING FREDERICK H. BARTLATT’S SUBDIVISION IN THE SOUTHWEST ¼ OF SECTION 34 TOWNSHIP 39 NORTH RANGE 12 EAST OF THE THIRD PRINCIPAL MERIDIAN IN COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS. DECLARATION OF CONDOMINIUM RECORDED MARCH 17, 2009 AS DOCUMENT NUMBER 0907645123.

The full RFQ can be found at: https://www.oak-park.us/yourgovernment/budget-purchasing/requests-proposals. Questions should be emailed to lgriffin@oak-park.us.

The application may be viewed at the Village of Brookfield Village Hall during normal business hours.

Please reference PZC Case 24-01.

Public hearings may be continued from time to time without further notice, except as otherwise required under the Illinois Open Meetings Act.

The court date will be held: On January 30, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. via Zoom at

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

Zoom Access Code: 914 3462 0283 Password: 988648

Published in RB Landmark January 10, 2024

To access Zoom by phone call 312626-6799 then enter the Access code and password listed above.

Published in Wednesday Journal January 10, 17, 24, 2024

OPPORTUNITY

The Village of Oak Park -- Office of the Village Engineer, 201 South Boulevard, Oak Park, Illinois 60302-- will receive sealed proposals until 4:00 pm. on Friday, January 26, 2024 for Phase I Preliminary Engineering Services & Phase II Design Engineering Services for the Home Avenue Pedestrian Bridge Replacement. In general, The Village of Oak Park, Illinois (the Village) is issuing a Request for Qualifications (RFQ) to solicit qualifications from interested engineering firms to provide Phase I Preliminary Engineering Services and Phase II Design Engineering Services for the for the replacement of the Home Avenue Pedestrian Bridge (IDOT Structure Number 0162060) over the Eisenhower Expressway (I-290) and railroads. These services will be procured in accordance with the Village’s policy on Qualifications Based Selection (QBS).

The public is invited to attend the public hearing and present oral and/ or written comments. Written comments may be provided prior to 4:00 PM on the day of the meeting to: Village of Brookfield, Planning and Zoning Commission c/o Kate Portillo, 8820 Brookfield Avenue, Brookfield, IL 60513 and at kportillo@brookfieldil.gov. Oral or written public testimony may be given during the public hearing.

PUBLIC NOTICES EQUAL HOUSING

NOTICE is hereby given that a public hearing will be held by the Planning and Zoning Commission of the Village of Brookfield on Thursday, January 25, 2024, at 7:00 PM in the Edward Barcal Hall located at 8820 Brookfield Avenue, Brookfield, Illinois to consider an application from Li Dong for a Special Use Permit for a Massage Establishment use at 9211 Broadway Avenue (PIN 15-34-307026-1003).

There will be a court date on my Request to change my name from: Robert Thomas Vishneski to the new name of: Robin Titania Vishneski

Published in RB Landmark January 10, 2024

PUBLIC NOTICES

Notice of Public Hearing Village of Brookfield Planning and Zoning Commission January 25, 2024, at 7:00 PM

Individuals with disabilities requiring accommodation in order to participate in any meeting may contact the Village of Brookfield at (708) 4857344 prior to the meeting. Wheelchair access is available through the front (south) entrance of Village Hall.

Request of Robert Thomas Vishneski Case Number 20234006707.

PUBLIC NOTICES

THE VILLAGE OF OAK PARK Bill McKenna Village Engineer Published in Wednesday Journal, January 10, 2024

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All real estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Fair Housing Act, which makes it illegal to advertise any preference, limitation or discrimination based on age, race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status or national origin, or intention to make any such preferences, limitations or discrimination.

The Illinois Human Rights Act prohibits discrimination in the sale, rental or advertising of real estate based on factors in addition to those protected under federal law.

This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. All persons are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised are available on an equal opportunity basis.

Restrictions or prohibitions of pets do not apply to service animals.

To complain of discrimination, call HUD toll free at: 1-800669-9777.

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We also need inspiring, funny, heartwarming and, at times, heartbreaking stories about our friends, neighbors and children.

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The Landmark, January 10, 2024

2 1 E . B U R L I N GTO N R OA D, R I V E R S I D E | 70 8 . 4 47.72 07

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3122 Wisconsin Ave, Berwyn $650,000

2321 Scoville Ave, Berwyn $380,000

380 Herrick Rd, Riverside $375,000

125 Woodside Rd, Riverside $590,000

10 S Wille St, #309, Mount Prospect $233,000

302-306 River Oaks Dr, Calumet City $300,000

1347 Cuyler Ave, Berwyn $400,000

116 E Quincy St, Riverside $425,000

69 Longcommon Rd, Riverside $189,900

622 Robinhood Ln, LaGrange Park $2,800/mo

When it comes to selling and buying homes... experience, results and ties to the community make all the difference.

Curious about the current real estate market and the impact on your home’s value? Thinking about selling, but need to find your next home first? Can’t find your dream home in this competitive market? Contact one of our local market experts for a free, confidential consultation.

EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY