Landmark 021021

RIVERSIDE-BROOKFIELD Also serving North Riverside

Follow us Online! rblandmark.com

$1.00

@riversidebrookfieldlandmark

Vol. 36, No. 6

February 10, 2021

Confectioner opens retail shop in downtown Brookfield PAGE 3 High school basketball kicks off competition this week PAGE 13

Angels answer the call

Community responds after Brookfield florist’s cancer diagnosis

By BOB UPHUES

E

Editor

ven the COVID-19 pandemic couldn’t put a crimp in the holiday shopping season over at Christopher Mark Fine Flowers on Grand Boulevard in downtown Brookfield. As last December dawned, owner Chris Borzym had shrugged off the cancellation of the village’s annual holiday celebration and a blowout party for the shop’s 15th anniversary.

See BORZYM on page 14

ALEX ROGALS/Staff Photographer

LOOKING FORWARD: Chris Borzym, owner of Christopher Mark Fine Flowers and Gifts in Brookfield, says he was floored by the outpouring of love and support following his prostate cancer diagnosis late last year.

Brookfield offers option for residents, businesses to go solar New program will allow electricity customers to rack up metering credits, save a little money

By BOB UPHUES Editor

Anyone who is an electricity customer in Brookfield, both residential and commercial, will soon have the opportunity to support

renewable energy initiatives and save some money by receiving net metering credits that are applied to their electric bills.

On Feb. 8, Brookfield trustees voted unanimously to join the Metropolitan Mayors Caucus’ Community Solar Clearinghouse

Solution Program, known as CS2 for short, to connect local residents and businesses with community solar projects via a subscription model where customers earn net metering credits depending on their size.

CS2 is a program that resulted from a part-

nership in 2018 of the Metropolitan Mayors Caucus and The Power Bureau, a consulting company that, according to its website, “provides energy commodity procurement and See SOLAR on page 11

SUBSCRIBE!

O N LY $ 3 0 fo r 1 3 M o n t h s !

Visit RBLandmark.com • Enter “FREE MONTH”on the “Subscribe “ page for...you guessed it...a FREE month!

2

The Landmark, February 10, 2021

JOIN THE FARMINGTON TEAM Since the 1930s, our families have been dedicated to Chicago’s meat industry. And for more than 49 years, we’ve been proud to call Forest Park our home at Franklin and Circle Streets. Just as it was when our company was founded so many years ago, we remain committed to doing what is best for our employees, our customers, and our community.

MORE THAN 49 YEARS IN FOREST PARK Farmington Foods specializes in delicious, center-of-the-plate meat and poultry products for retailers and foodservice operators alike. Look for our Big Shoulders Smokehouse products in grocery stores across the country!

WE'RE HIRING NOW! If you’re interested in joining our team, please call Farmington Foods human resources today!

(708) 771-3600 Ext# 2069

Visit our websites at FarmingtonFoods.com and BigShouldersBBQ.com 7419 West Franklin Street, Forest Park, IL 60130

The Landmark, February 10, 2021

Fill My Jar overflows with sweet passion Handmade candies and vintage charm star at Prairie Ave. shop

IN THIS ISSUE

By MELISSA ELSMO Food Writer

After years spent honing her baking skills at pop-ups, farmers markets and catering events, Annette Pardun, purveyor of indulgent toffee, caramel and candy barks has opened a brickand-mortar shop named Fill My Jar at 3726 Prairie Ave. in Brookfield.

“I am excited to be part of the business community in Brookfield,” said Pardun. “There is a sense of closeness in Brookfield you just don’t find other places.”

The devoted confectioner hosted a soft opening and a ribbon cutting last week where customers, curious neighbors and old friends came streaming in to welcome the sweet shop to the Brookfield’s downtown district.

The well-appointed shop underwent an extensive year-long renovation before opening and offers an array of nostalgic penny candy as well as an assortment of handcrafted confections and chocolate creations exclusive to Fill My Jar. Traditional toffee, foil-wrapped caramels and peppermint bark form the spine of Fill My Jar’s product line -- much of which is appropriately sold in whimsical mason jars with customizable lids.

Pardun features a rotating line of 11 handmade barks made from all-natural ingredients. Standouts in the “FMJ line” include peanut butter crunch, lemon, and coffee bark as well as best-selling English toffee and peppermint barks. All products are made from all-natural ingredients and flavored with topquality 100-percent natural oils.

“By the time we are done flavoring it really isn’t chocolate anymore,” said Pardun. “The flavor becomes so specific that we are using what really could be thought of as lemon chocolate or cherry chocolate.”

Raised in a large Italian family prone to hosting gatherings centered on home-cooked

Calendar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4 Crime . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5 Classified . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18 Kosey Corner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16 Opinion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16 Obituaries. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17

MELISSA ELSMO/Food Writer

THE SWEET LIFE: Annette Pardun shows off the customizable lids on the candy filled jars sold at her Prairie Avenue shop. foods, Pardun naturally gravitated toward baking and decorating. She attended the Wilton School of Cake Decorating and worked as freelance cake decorator, but the married mother to three adult daughters dedicated the bulk of her adult life to being a stay-at-home mom.

“Even though I had a background in sales and marketing, after staying home to raise my kids, I felt like I was going to have to start at the bottom because so many years had gone by,” said Pardun. “My kids were my first and foremost job. This all grew up around them.”

In March of 2015, Pardun embraced her love of crafting confections and began crafting barks and caramels as holiday gifts. Before

MELISSA ELSMO/Food Writer

IN BUSINESS: After an extensive renovation, Fill My Jar is now open on Prairie Avenue in Brookfield.

long, her jarred products had gained a following and she began preparing them in a shared commercial kitchen and selling them at craft fairs and farmers markets.

Everything changed when Pardun visited her husband at work in 2017. Tucked in the corner of the lobby of his office building in Chicago’s Loop, Pardun found a woman selling handmade jewelry.

“I walked straight over and asked her how she was able to have a table in the lobby. That was the first time I heard of a pop-up and I knew it was the place for me,” said Pardun.

“Besides, the hot sun at farmers markets and chocolate were not a great combination.”

Soon, Pardun had her first pop-up table in the air-conditioned lobby of her husband’s building. Before long, Fill My Jar was popping up on a rotating schedule among nearly all the office buildings in the loop. As Fill My Jar added pop-up venues, the demand for Pardun’s products grew to include corporate gifts and catering events like baby showers and weddings.

“I was relentless,” said Pardun. “I was doing pop-ups in the city Monday through Friday and cooking at night. I had part-time workers that grew into full-time employees.”

As business grew, so did Pardun’s desire to have her own kitchen and retail shop. After renovating a house in Brookfield to be closer to her family, she turned her attention to the renovating the Prairie Avenue shop.

Today Pardun, a new grandmother, lives in very close proximity to her daughters and around the corner from Fill My Jar. “Being here, in my own shop, proves you are never too old to dream,” said Pardun. “There is always room for a second show.”

Editor Bob Uphues Sports Editor James Kay Food Editor Melissa Elsmo Staff Photographer Alex Rogals Design/Production Manager Andrew Mead Designers Javier Govea, Mark Moroney Debbie Becker Sales and Marketing Representatives Marc Stopeck, Lourdes Nicholls Sales & Development Mary Ellen Nelligan Circulation Manager Jill Wagner E-MAIL jill@oakpark.com Publisher Dan Haley Business Manager Joyce Minich

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

HOW TO REACH US ADDRESS 141 S. Oak Park Ave., Oak Park, IL 60302 PHONE 708-442-6739 ■ FAX 708-467-9066 E-MAIL buphues@wjinc.com 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 $34 within Cook County and $44 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. © 2021 Growing Community Media NFP.

3

4

The Landmark, February 10, 2021

BIG WEEK

February 10-17

Curbside Cupid at Riverside Library

Riverside Public Library, 1 Burling Road, will aim to capture your heart during a special Curbside Cupid driveby event on Saturday, Feb. 20 from 10 to 11:30 a.m.

Kids of all ages are invited to pull up to the curb outside the library and pick up a bag of treats during this no-contact event marking Valentine’s Day.

Virtually tour ‘Notorious RBG’ exhibit

Join Brookfield Public Library for a free virtual tour of the exhibit “Notorious RBG: The Life and Times of Ruth Bader Ginsberg” on display at the Illinois Holocaust Museum and Education Center in Skokie.

It’s the first-ever museum exhibition focusing solely on this judicial icon, whose image graces mugs, t-shirts, posters, and bobbleheads. The exhibit is a vibrant exploration of Justice Ginsburg’s life and her numerous, often RUTH BADER GINSBERG simultaneous roles as a student, wife, mother, lawyer, judge, women’s rights pioneer and internet phenomenon.

The library invites you to tour the exhibit via Zoom on Tuesday, Feb. 16 at 6 p.m. Registration required by phone at 708-485-6917, ext. 130 or online at brookfieldlibrary.info.

And more Enter for a chance to win $250 during a special Valentines’ Day Photo Contest at North Riverside Park Mall, 7501 Cermak Road, through Feb. 14. Visit the Valentine’s Loveseat, which is located on the lower level next to Finish Line, and take a photo. Post to Instagram or Facebook and tag #lovenrpmall and #lovewins. Winner will be randomly selected and notified via social media. Mall open M-Sat, 10 a.m.-8 p.m. and Sun., noon to 6 p.m.

Lyons Township High School invites the community to enjoy an exhibit of student artwork online at lths.net/artwork. The virtual exhibit features pieces of art in various mediums and from all levels, including drawings, paintings, photographs, jewelry, textiles, video and sculpture.

■

■

Legion hosts ‘Leadership and Inclusion’ seminar

Riverside American Legion Post #488 will mark Black History Month by hosting guest speaker Sgt. Maj. Donna Brock (U.S. Army ret.) for the seminar “Leadership and Inclusion,” which will emphasize the importance of making sure all people are represented in groups, teams and organizations.

SGT. MAJ. DONNA BROCK Brock is a retired command sergeant major with more than 35 years of service in the Army. She serves on the board of directors and is treasurer of the Army Women’s Foundation and serves as a community coach for the program Together with Veterans.

The event takes place Friday, Feb 12 at 6 p.m. and will be streamed publicly on Post 488’s Facebook page (@ americanlegionriverside).

LTHS launches PProject Love Letter

Drive-thru Valentine’s Senior Social

The Brookfield Aging Well Team and the Brookfield Chamber of Commerce invites all senior citizens to RSVP and attend their modified Valentine’s Day Senior Social, a free, socially distanced and safe drive-thru hru event scheduled for Saturday, Feb. 13.

Call Aging Care Connections at 708-603-2275 to reserve your spot. All RSVP’d guests can arrive at Brookfield Village Hall, 8820 Brookfield Ave., anytime between 1 and 3 p.m. and follow the decorated path to receive your free goodie bag filled with generously donated items from Brookfield Chamber of Commerce and Aging Well team members.

Riverside Arts Center, 32 E. Quincy St., presents “Softening Space” featuring constructions, installations and paintings by Camille Silverman in the Freeark Gallery through Feb. 11 and “Invisible Visible,” a collaboration between artist Colleen Plumb and writer Katherine Kassouf Cummings in the FlexSpace Gallery through Feb. 22. The gallery is open by appointment.

Visit riversideartscenter.com for more information.

Chicago Zoological Society’s animal care staff presents “Bringing to Zoo to You” Facebook Live chats each weekday at 11 a.m. through February. If you can’t tune in at 11 a.m., you can watch the videos later on Brookfield Zoo’s Facebook page or YouTube channel.

North Riverside Public Library, 2400 Desplaines Ave., offers a number of virtual programs through ■

■

■

Facebook Live (facebook.com/NRPL2400), conference calls and the teleconferencing app Zoom. Programs include Makerspace Mondays via Facebook Live on Feb. 15 at 7 p.m. and Game Night Wednesdays on Feb. 17 at 7 p.m. via Zoom.

There’s also Deeply Rooted Book Club via Zoom on Feb. 11 at 6:30 p.m. The book for February is “Racism without Racists” by Eduardo Bonilla-Silva; Crafternoons: Valentine’s Tree Painting via Zoom on Feb. 13 at 1:30 p.m.; Stretching and Meditation on Feb. 15 at 6:30 p.m. by conference call (800-747-5150, code 1453322); and engage in brain-healthy activities during a WITS Workout via Zoom on Feb. 16 at 11 a.m.

RSVP to bodenl@northriversidelibrary.org or visit northriversidelibrary.org/events for adult

AAre you looking to brighten someone’s day w an anonymous note of gratitude and love? with LLyons Township High School Student Council is stepping in as Cupid this month, enlisting students, staff, families and community m members to hand-write a short, one-page, aanonymous letter of love and thanks to someone in the community.

A pri primary focus will be to deliver letters to institutions – retire retirement communities, rehabilitation and longterm care facilities, hospitals, etc. Student Council has been tasked with identifying where to send the dispatches.

A sample letter is available on the LT Student Council webpage at lths.net/Page/12858. All letters must be submitted by Feb. 16 and may be dropped off at the Main Office at the North Campus, 100 S. Brainard Ave., LaGrange, or South Campus, 4900 S. Willow Springs Road, Western Springs, or mailed to LTHS Student Council c/o Peter Geddeis, 100 S. Brainard Ave., LaGrange, 60525.

Zoom meeting access info.

Brookfield Public Library offers virtual classes and programs for patrons of all ages throughout the week. Most youth activities will be presented live on the library’s Facebook page at facebook. com/BrookfieldPublicLibrary. For adults, there’s Chair Yoga via Zoom on Feb. 11 at 11 a.m. and Illinois Senior Medicare Patrol Series: Types of Fraud Schemes via Zoom on Feb. 16 at 11 a.m.

Visit brookfield.evanced.info/signup to register for Zoom programs.

Riverside Public Library invites you to join in the discussion during Riverside Reads: “Hard Evidence” by Barbara D’Amato on Zoom on Feb. 16 at 2:30 p.m. To obtain Zoom access info, visit the library’s online calendar at riversidelibrary.org/calendar.html.

■

■

The Landmark, February 10, 2021

P O L I C E

R E P O R T S

Brookfielder charged with attempted murder in Chicago shooting Chicago police on Feb. 7 reported that they had charged a 32-year-old Brookfield man with first-degree attempted murder for a shooting in the Belmont-Cragin neighborhood of the city that took place in January.

In a press release, Chicago police said they arrested Nicholas Athans, of the 3900 block of Elm Avenue, on Feb. 3 at 4:45 p.m. in the 4400 block of N. Cumberland Avenue after he was identified by the alleged victim, a 35-year-old man.

According to police, Athans allegedly shot the victim during an incident in the 5300 block of West Oakdale Avenue on Jan. 16 at about 7:50 p.m. Reports at the time stated the man was shot in the leg and mouth.

In addition to attempted murder, Athans was charged with aggravated battery/discharge of a firearm, which is also a felony. A Cook County judge ordered Athans held without bond, but the Cook County Jail’s online database indicates that Athans was placed on electronic monitoring.

Athans has a preliminary court hearing scheduled for Feb. 16 in Chicago.

Weapons, drug charges follow First Ave. crash A 22-year-old North Riverside man faces three felony charges, including armed violence, possession of a controlled substance and manufacture/delivery of a controlled substance after he allegedly crashed his Chevy into a fence on Brookfield Zoo property along First Avenue north of Ridgewood Road on Feb. 7 at about 2:35 a.m.

Jonathan Bednarik, who police say was the driver, and a female passenger sustained minor injuries in the crash and were evaluated by paramedics but did not require hospitalization.

According to the police report, the vehicle was headed northbound on First Avenue when it hit a patch of ice, crossed over into the southbound lanes and then off the roadway and into the fence.

While investigating the incident, firefighters at the scene reported locating a satchel hanging from the fence near the vehicle. Inside, police found a loaded 9 mm handgun and 17 rounds of 9 mm ammunition in the bag’s main pocket.

In the satchel, police also reported finding a bag containing 11 grams of a white powdery substance, some pills and a scale. From the vehicle’s center console, police also recovered a pistol magazine loaded with .22-caliber rounds. That weapon, according to police was not in the vehicle.

In addition to the felony charges, police charged Bednarik with driving on a suspended license and reckless conduct and cited him for traffic offenses related to the crash.

Package on fire Brookfield police responded to a building in the 4400 block of Eberly Avenue on Feb. 5 at about 4:30 p.m. after a resident called to report a package on fire near the rear door.

A resident called 911 after being alerted by a neighbor. The resident told police she stepped outside to find the package, which had been delivered by Amazon, smoldering, so she covered it with snow to put it out.

The package’s recipient, who also lived in the building, told police it contained a yoga mat. She said she had smelled something burning, but thought it was food. Other residents of the building told police that they had smelled something burning for about an hour but didn’t think much of it.

Riverside vehicle break-in A resident of the 200 block of Scottswood Road, Riverside, called police on Feb. 3 at about 9:30 a.m. to report that during the overnight hours someone had entered her unlocked vehicle, which was parked in the driveway.

Security video from the residence reportedly showed someone walk from the rear of a neighboring property into her yard at about 1:10 a.m. The person opens the driver’s side door to her vehicle, opens the center console and closes it before leaving to the west.

That same morning, police also reported someone attempting to break into a garage and a vehicle in the 300 block of Fairbank Road.

The alleged offender’s image was captured on security camera video at two residences.

The videos show a man wearing a black and gray jacket, a black hood, tight black pants, black shoes, black socks and a white face mask.

One of the videos also show him wearing a black glove on his left hand but no glove on his right hand. In that video he is also seen riding a yellow or orange bicycle with silver handlebars.

These items were obtained from police reports filed by the Riverside, North Riverside and Brookfield police departments, Feb. 1-7 and represent a portion of the incidents to which police responded. Unless otherwise indicated, anybody named in these reports has only been charged with a crime. These cases have not been adjudicated.

— Compiled by Bob Uphues

There is light at the end of the tunnel!

Are you in danger of losing your home or business in the next few weeks or months?

If so, maybe it’s time to get a fresh start through bankruptcy or Chapter 13.

• You can catch up on your mortgage or rent payments to stay in your current home or get the time you need to find a new place to live.

• You can get out from under a mountain of debt or stretch out your car payments until work picks up again.

• If you have a business with more debt than the company can carry right now, maybe a Chapter 11 reorganization is what will get you through until business improves.

I am meeting with clients safely by phone or video — we can meet, discuss your case, and file for bankruptcy relief, all electronically.

Make 2021 the year you get a fresh start and put money fears behind you.

David P. Lloyd A T T O R N E Y AT L AW

David P. Lloyd, Ltd. 615B S. La Grange Road La Grange, IL 60525 708-937-1264 info@davidlloydlaw.com www.davidlloydlaw.com

5

6

The Landmark, February 10, 2021

Driveway an issue on new home planned for Maple Ave. Developer asks village board to override Plan Commission

By BOB UPHUES Editor

A LaGrange-based home builder who has already constructed and sold three houses without a hitch on Brookfield’s south end expressed surprise recently when the village’s Planning and Zoning Commission recommended denying a special use permit to move a curb cut for a driveway at 4302 Maple Ave., where he’s planning to build a new residence.

Stevan Vukanic, lead project manager for IMX Group LLC, called the commission’s decision “shocking” and hoped that the Brookfield Village Board might look more favorably on his request, which would place a driveway exiting onto Shields Avenue within about 40 feet of its intersection with Maple Avenue.

“That was not what we expected, but I’m optimistic of a potential overturn of this by the village board,” said Vukanic, whose father Mike Vukanic, an attorney, presented IMX Group’s case to the Planning and Zoning Com-

mission at a Jan. 28 public hearing.

At the village board’s committee of the whole discussion of the matter on Feb. 8, it appeared as though he might be right.

Trustees did not push back very hard on Mike Vukanic’s arguments that the ordinance now in place should not be enforced for this project, because it was not in place when he first submitted plans last September.

He also wondered why the ordinance in place at the time, which prohibited new curb cuts outright, had not been enforced for three earlier projects the company built nearby, saying the failure to do so suggested the village wasn’t serious in enforcing it.

He also complained that the Planning and Zoning Commission didn’t give the company “a fair shake” by not allowing him to rebut concerns expressed by commissioners.

Statements by a couple of commissioners that curb cuts were not consistent with neighboring properties, he said, were simply false. Trustees will vote on whether or not to approve the curb cut at their Feb. 22 meeting.

Because of the denial by the commission, it will take a two-thirds majority to overturn that recommendation.

“To me, when it comes to talking about character, the character is that curb cuts are the standard,” Mike Vukanic said. “Not to have a curb cut is, ironically, out of character.”

Stevan Vukanic said the company in the past couple of years has built three homes in Brookfield at 4612 Arthur Ave., 4614 Arthur Ave. and 4312 Arthur Ave. Like the one proposed for 4302 Maple Ave., those homes are all about 3,400 square feet and each sold for more than $575,000.

The company was able to add a new curb cut and extend an existing one without issue for the homes in the 4600 block of Arthur Avenue. However, since those homes were built, the Brookfield Village Board passed an ordinance requiring new curb cuts to obtain a special use permit.

And, as fate would have it, Vukanic’s project on Maple Avenue became the first instance where a developer had to apply for a special use permit for a residential curb cut.

“I understand they’re trying to preserve the integrity of Brookfield, but that really limits the type of house that could go there,” he said.

Stevan Vukanic said the company has already altered its site plan, which initially had the driveway exiting onto Maple Avenue, after Brookfield police expressed concerns about cars backing out onto the busy collector route.

The home at 4302 Maple Ave. would be the first corner lot IMX Group is developing in Brookfield, and re-orienting the home to face Shields Avenue, which is also a collector route allowed for a wider, grand façade. Vukanic’s

description of the design resembled the most recent home developed by IMX Group, at 4312 Arthur Ave. The corner lot at 4302 Maple Ave. was previously a bit overgrown and the small one-story frame bungalow set back quite a way from Maple Avenue was obscured from view by tall pine trees along the Maple and Shields frontages.

“We took over what was the ugliest property in Brookfield and we’re planning to put up one of the nicest houses,” Vukanic said.

Nice or not, planning and zoning commissioners were unanimous in their recommendation against allowing the existing curb cut on Shields Avenue, which once led to a small detached garage at the rear of the property, closer to Maple Avenue. In the first place, there’s an alley that can provide access to a rear garage.

But, the biggest concern was the proximity of the proposed driveway to the busy intersection.

“I think this is a dangerous proposition,” said Commissioner Jennifer Hendricks, who will become a village trustee this spring, one of three candidates running unopposed for that post.

Hendricks said the property is close to See MAPLE AVE. on page 11

PLAY BALL! RIVERSIDE LITTLE LEAGUE REGISTRATION NOW OPEN SOFTBALL | BASEBALL | TEEBALL AGES 5-14 www.riversidell.com

Painting & Remodeling “Professionals at Affordable Prices”

708 848-4800

Email: westworkpainting@att.net Exterior & Interior Painting & Staining SPECIALISTS!

Serving the Oak Park/River Forest Communities for over 20 years!

$200 OFF EXTERIOR

PREP. INCLUDING: POWER WASHING, TARPING, SCRAPING, CAULK PUTTY & PRIMER ($800 AND OVER)

$150 OFF INTERIOR

HOME PAINTING, WOOD RE-FINISHING & PLASTERING ($500 AND OVER)

HOME IMPROVEMENTS:

TURN YOUR ATTIC OR BASEMENT INTO NEW LIVING SPACE EXPERT DRYWALL & PLASTERING INSURED • FREE ESTIMATES • ALL WORK GUARANTEED • EPA Certified to work on houses that contain lead paint • Home Insulation Specialist PAYMENT PLANS AVAILABLE

The Landmark, February 10, 2021

Preliminary thumbs up for Sunnyside apartment proposal

Brookfield commissioners unanimously recommend pair of variances

By BOB UPHUES Editor

Developer Michael Gatto, who has completed two apartment building projects in downtown Brookfield and has a third development under way in the 3700 block of Grand Boulevard, looks to be close to winning village approval for a fourth rental property development at 3727 Sunnyside Ave. after a unanimous recommendation from the Brookfield Planning Zoning Commission to award it two zoning variations.

During a public hearing on Jan. 28 that lasted about 20 COURTESY OF VILLAGE OF BROOKFIELD minutes, planning and zonNEW PROJECT: Brookfield Planning and Zoning commissioners said they had no problems with the deing commissioners praised sign for a new 9-unit apartment building at 3727 Sunnyside Ave. The building, developed by Michael the site plan for Gatto’s proposed nine-unit, three story Gatto, will be T-shaped to provide more green space at the front of the lot, facing Sunnyside Avenue. building and agreed that the development’s somewhat unissues, something builders have faced dur- to drop [the façade] off of Sunnyside to creusual parking arrangement was warranted ing the COVID-19 pandemic. ate greenspace in a welcoming gesture,” said because of site limitations.

Building supply delays have slowed con- Charles Grund, chairman of the Brookfield The village board has final say on grant- struction on Gatto’s mixed-use development Planning and Zoning Commission. ing the zoning variations, and that body will at 3704 Grand Blvd. Gatto said he has already The commission also recommended apget its first look at the Planning and Zoning hired an architect to design the Sunnyside proving a variance for locating two of the decommission’s recommendation at the Feb. 22 apartment building. velopment’s 10 onsite parking spaces in the committee of the whole meeting.

“There should be no lag other than the south side yard. The remainder of the parkShould trustees agree with the commis- new lags in development that have become ing spaces are located at the rear of the propsion, they could vote to approve the varia- normal due to COVID,” Gatto said. erty, but an alley runs adjacent to the south tions at the March 8 village board meeting.

Commissioners recommended granting lot line and the irregular shape of the lot Gatto said that if all goes well, the new the development a variance from the zoning meant there was little choice but to provide building could be completed within 10 to 12 code requiring 80 percent “build-to-zone” access to those spaces from that side alley. months, depending on any building supply coverage on the primary frontage, which is Gatto also is reducing the amount of im-

COURTESY OF VILLAGE OF BROOKFIELD

Sunnyside Avenue.

The build-to-zone coverage in this instance – just 53 percent is significantly less than the code requirement – and was preferred, commissioners concluded, to a design that would have resulted in more of a street wall effect.

As proposed, the building is T-shaped, with the top of the T facing north in order to fit better on the long, narrow property. As a result, the building’s Sunnyside façade steps back and is set further back from the front lot line.

“I think in this case it was a sensitive use

pervious surface for the development by proposing semi-pervious pavement for the rear parking lot. In any case, the development will have to meet the village’s storm water requirements, which are stricter than the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Great Chicago.

The developer indicated during the hearing that the development’s drains would connect to an existing storm sewer, diverting runoff away from neighboring properties.

Gatto’s apartment building at 8934 Fairview Ave., which sits directly across the alley from the new development site, also ties into that storm sewer.

Gatto said the commission’s openness to his plan reflected their understanding of the recently adopted comprehensive plan and Station Area Zoning Code.

“It’s an easy situation when you have an educated group going through your project, recognizing the uniqueness of the site and applying the zoning modernization principles to it,” Gatto said.

brought to you by

Your 5-Step Plan to Spring Into Action We are past winter’s midway point, so now is the time to start planning your landscape project or new design. You can spring into action with this five-step plan: Scott 1. Dream – McAdam Jr. What does your dream landscape look like? A great landscape extends your living space to the outdoors. Think about your dream landscape’s “feel,” including amenities.

2. Prepare – Next, get a lay of your land. What would you like to keep? What should be changed? What needs to go?

3. Design – Now that you have set the stage for the design process, consider the big picture. Even if you are only working with one area at a time, design the entire space so that you have a cohesive landscape plan, not haphazardly placed plantings.

4. Visualize – From inside your home, visualize how these plans would take shape. Gaze out your windows and see that soon-to-be beautified landscape. When done right, that view can truly be your home’s premier piece of artwork.

5. Execute – Almost there!

Having created your final design, you are ready to execute the plan and begin installation.

Feeling overwhelmed? Our full team of landscape designers and a landscape architect are ready to help transform your dreams into reality.

Follow us on

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

7

8

The Landmark, February 10, 2021

Pilates studio headed to Broadway Avenue storefront Taut to offer 45-minute classes using ‘reformer’ machines

through soon after.

Shelley said the lease for the studio is contingent on village approval of the special use permit, but trustees did not indicate any opposition to the request on Feb. 8.

By BOB UPHUES Taut will be a small studio offering full-body Editor workouts in 45-minute sessions using special Pilates “reformer” machines, which at first A Pilates studio with a difference appears to glance look a bit like a rowing machine. be on the way to the Eight Corners business The 10-foot long machines have stable platdistrict in Brookfield after village trustees on forms at either end, framing a larger center Feb. 8 indicated they would vote to approve panel that moves back and forth. Springs, a special use permit for the business at their which can be adjusted, can make next meeting on Feb. 22. it either easier or harder for someTina Shelley, a Brookfield resione to stabilize the center platdent, applied for the special use form. The less tension, the more permit to open Taut inside the difficult it is for the user to mainvacant storefront at 9219 Broadtain stability. way Ave. The permit is needed be“It’s a full-body, head-to-toe workcause studios and instructional out,” said Shelley. “You’re forced to services are considered special use your core and legs to stabilize uses in the C-3 zoning district, yourself.” which includes the entire length The entire workout is done on of Broadway Avenue and porthe machine, Shelley said, and is TINA SHELLEY tions of Maple Avenue and Monlow-impact since there’s no jumproe Avenue. ing around. Shelley said she’s proOn Jan. 28, members of the Brookfield Planvided instruction to students as young as 16 ning and Zoning Commission voted unaniand as old as their 70s. mously to recommend approval of the special Shelley’s got more than a decade of experiuse permit. The village board has final say on ence both working out and teaching Pilates such permits. using the reformer machines. She was first “I love that we’re seeing so much desire to introduced to them when she was living in Companionship & Light Housekeeping Daily Health Reminders invest in this part of town,” said planning and Hollywood, California, when they became Assist with Personal Care & Hygiene Assist with Errands & Transportation zoning Commissioner Jennifer Hendricks, something of a craze. who suggested that the village board might Daily Health • Companionship Meal Planning & Light Preparation &Reminders Dressing Assistance “They were very big in Hollywood,” she Companionship & Housekeeping• Ambulation Daily Health Reminders want to consider amending the zoning code to said.

“L.A. is full of these studios.” & Care LightAfter Housekeeping Transitional Hospitalization • Safety Supervision & Assistance make such businesses permitted by right. with Errands Assist with Personal Care & Hygiene Assist Assist with Errands & Transportation When she returned to the Chicago area There are already other businesses of a simabout a decade ago, Shelley and a partner de& Transportation • Assist with Personal Care ilar type in the district, including Miss Clara’s Meal Planning & Preparation Ambulation & Dressing Assistance cided to open Body R&D, in the Ravenswood & Hygiene Joyful Learning Center, a music school for neighborhood of Chicago in 2012.

• Ambulation & Dressing Transitional Care After Hospitalization Safety Supervision & Assistance children; Compassion Factory Art Gallery Right at Home Oak Park Chicago The business was the first Pilates studio Assistance • Meal Planning & and Studio, which hosts art classes; FocusOm, to exclusively use the reformer machines in a yoga studio; and Alphabet Learning Center, Preparation Chicago, though other would follow. A little • Safety Supervision a daycare and preschool. www.rahoakparkchicago.net A year ago, Alphabet Learning Center had more than eight years ago, Shelley moved to & Assistance • Transitional Care After obtained a similar permit to expand their Brookfield, and in 2020 with COVID-19 wreakight at Home Hospitalization Oak Park Chicago operations into that space, but the plan fell ing havoc on fitness studios, she decided to move on. through after the COVID-19 pandemic swept The Brookfield studio will have six machines, www.rahoakparkchicago.net meaning every class will be small.

“As we’ve seen with COVID, you have to keep downsizing anyway,” Companionship & Light Housekeeping Daily Health Reminders Shelley said. “In times Assist with Personal Care & Hygiene Assist with Errands & Transportation like these, you don’t know Meal Planning & Preparation Ambulation & Dressing Assistance what’s going to be hapTransitional Care After Hospitalization Safety Supervision & Assistance pening, so it does behoove us to keep it smaller.”

Shelley said that if trustees approve the Right at Home Oak Park Chicago special use permit later PROVIDED 708.445.6000 this month, her goal is TIME FOR REFORM? Taut, a Pilates studio likely headed soon to www.rahoakparkchicago.net to open Taut sometime a Broadway Avenue storefront, will use “reformer” machines in April. A website is in (above) during 45-minute, small-group workouts. development.

The right care can help seniors enjoy life in the comfort of a familiar environment, and provide reassurance to loved ones.

708.445.6000

g

Daily Health Reminders

n

Ambulation & Dressing Right at Home Assistance Oak Park Chicago Safety Supervision & Assistance

708.445.6000 Assist with Errands & Transportation The Right Care, Right at Home®

708.445.6000

www.rahoakparkchicago.net

The Landmark, February 10, 2021

9

Hollywood School expansion heads to Brookfield trustees D96 hopeful multipurpose room, new playground can be built this summer

By BOB UPHUES Editor

Riverside Elementary School District 96 officials are a step closer to embarking on a project to build a multipurpose room addition on to the south side of Hollywood School, 3423 Hollywood Ave. in Brookfield, and significantly expand and enclose an outdoor playground area north and west of the adjacent Hollywood Community House.

On Jan. 28, the members of the Brookfield Planning and Zoning Commission unanimously recommended approval of a pair of special use permits and three zoning variations sought by the school district to make way for the 1,475-square-foot multipurpose room addition and allow the school district to put a fence around the expanded outdoor play area.

“At the end of the day, I think it’s going to be a benefit to not only the school but the community,” said planning and zoning Commissioner Todd Svoboda.

The village required the special use permits to allow for a joint parking arrangement for school employees with both the village of Brookfield and the Chicago Zoological Society and to allow the school to expand the school, which is a non-conforming use in a residential district.

The zoning variations are needed because the school exceeds lot coverage rules, to reduce the number of onsite parking spaces to make way for the multipurpose room addition and to permit fencing in the front yard setback of the Hollywood House property to enclose the playground.

The recommendation of the Planning and Zoning Commission is advisory, with the village board responsible for either approving or denying them. Denial is unlikely, however, since the village has worked closely with the school district on the parking aspect of the equation.

When the addition is built, it will leave Hollywood School with just eight onsite

VILLAGE OF BROOKFIELD / DLA ARCHITECTS, LTD.

DRAWING BOARD: If all goes as planned, Riverside District 96 will begin work on a multipurpose room addition (detail below) to Hollywood School this summer. The project will reduce the size of the onsite parking lot and widen the driveway providing access to Washington Avene. A deal with the Hollywood Citizens Association will allow the playground (shown above) to be expanded to the west and south and enclosed by a fence. The exact layout of the playground is still to be determined. parking spaces, leaving them 18 short of what the code requires. To meet the parking space requirement, District 96 is renting 10 spaces in the south parking lot of Brookfield Zoo and has won approval from the village for 10 on-street spaces on Hollywood Avenue in front of the school.

With the parking question settled, the remaining issues were minor ones for the Planning and Zoning Commission and are not

VILLAGE OF BROOKFIELD / DLA ARCHITECTS, LTD.

likely to trouble village trustees, either.

“We’re confident with the process in front of us and happy that the village process continues to move forward,” said District 96 Superintendent Martha Ryan-Toye.

Village trustees are expected to discuss the commission’s recommendation at the village’s board’s committee of the whole meeting on Feb. 22. The village board is expected to vote on the recommendation at its March 8 meeting.

In the meantime, District 96’s architectural firm will begin nailing down construction documents in preparation for soliciting bids for the job. The architects and school board also need to finalize the final layout and cost estimates for the roughly 10,000-square-foot playground that will wrap around the north and west sides of the Hollywood Community House, which sits immediately south of the school.

Last year, the Hollywood Citizens Association, which operates the building, and the school district entered into a 30-year lease agreement that significantly increases outdoor recreation space for Hollywood School students and separates the playground from the onsite parking area.

The agreement also calls for the school dis-

trict to widen the driveway that connects the Hollywood School parking lot with Washington Avenue from 12 to 20 feet. That will be done as part of the overall construction project, which Ryan-Toye said will be completed this summer, if the school board accepts construction bids this spring.

“Overall, this is a smaller project, so the timeline will work for us,” Ryan-Toye said.

Last spring and summer, District 96 launched major projects at its other elementary schools in Riverside. The Hollywood School project was delayed in order to finalize the agreement with the Hollywood Citizens Association and to solve the parking issue.

Read it online at www.rblandmark.com

10

The Landmark, February 10, 2021

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

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

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

• • • • • • • •

Job Resource Fairs Electronics Recycling and Shred Days Property Tax Appeal Seminars Senior Technology Fairs Internship Programs for Students Citizen Advisory Committees Mobile Office Hours Town Hall Meetings

Helping qualified applicants receive care through the Department of Human Services Helping qualified applicants access unemployment benefits Mortgage relief assistance from the Attorney General and the Illinois Housing Development Authority

Emanuel Chris Welch State Representative 7th District

Constituent Service Office • 10055 Roosevelt Road • Westchester, IL 60154 708-450-1000 • emanuelchriswelch.com For more information, please contact Rep. Welch’s full-time constituent service office at 708-450-1000 or email repwelch@emanuelchriswelch.com

The Landmark, February 10, 2021

SOLAR

MAPLE AVE.

from page 1

from page 6

Metering credits planning services” to small and mid-size organizations, including municipalities.

Initially, the Metropolitan Mayors Caucus opened up CS2 to municipalities in the Chicago region in 2019 following the completion of the Rainy Solar project in Elgin. Rainy Solar is a 1.18 megawatt rooftop solar array and it drew subscriptions for renewable energy credits from eight communities, seven of them in the north suburbs and one nearby, in Oak Park.

According to the Metropolitan Mayors Caucus, those communities stand to save 10 percent in electricity supply costs over a 20-year period.

In September 2020, the Metropolitan Mayors Caucus and Power Bureau rolled out a CS2 Residential pilot program to a consortium of seven North Shore communities. Each community serves as a “sponsor” for CS2 Residential in order connect homeowners and business owners to an “approved” solar subscription offer.

More than 1,300 North Shore residential customers have subscribed to receive metering credits that are applied to their electric bills, resulting in modest cost savings. According to the North Shore Community Solar website, “a typical North Shore home can support

Safety concerns

the deployment of 30 solar panels at a community solar farm and secure as much as $130 per year in their net metering credit value.”

A “typical” residential customer uses no more than 1,000 kilowatts of electricity per month, according to the website.

Subscribers to the community solar program accumulate metering credits, which are based on the size of the subscription and the amount of energy produced by the solar project associated with the community.

Each month those credits are applied to a customer’s ComEd bill and then subscribers are charged 80 percent of that amount, resulting in a 20-percent net metering credit. The revenue goes toward the construction of additional solar projects.

There are no upfront costs to become a subscriber and there are no long-term contracts.

However, there is a limit to the number of subscribers who can initially participate, and

The New Year brings New Beginnings.

Discover the Tradition of

applications will be taken on a first come, first served basis.

The program will open up to more customers as more solar projects are built. Participating in a community solar program is an opportunity for residents and business owners who may not have the ability to install their own solar energy systems to support expansion of renewable energy alternatives.

With the village board’s Feb. 8 action, Brookfield will become the local CS2 sponsor for electricity customers here.

Michael Schwarz, Brookfield’s community and economic development director, said he and his staff are scheduled to meet with the CS2 program manager this week to walk through the steps needed to get the program up and running.

Once the program is ready to accept subscriptions, the village will announce details on their social media platforms and website.

both Ehlert Park and Congress Park School and that she had first-hand experience of someone backing into her vehicle as it exited a driveway too close to an intersection elsewhere in Brookfield.

“I don’t think we need to provide any more situations for this to happen,” said Hendricks, who added she thought doing so could open the village to liability. “We could put Brookfield in a bad position if we allow this.”

Hendricks suggested that the village’s code should be amended to specify just how far curb cuts can be located from an intersection.

Commissioner Karen Miller’s objection to the new curb cut also extended to the development’s site plan, saying re-orienting the home to face Shields Avenue was not in character with the neighborhood.

Commission Chairman Charles Grund also was lukewarm on the re-orientation of the home, which resulted in a garage sidewall being the principal feature of the Maple Avenue facade of the home.

“I don’t want to forget about the character of Maple,” Grund said.

2021 Registration is Open!

Early Registration Discount Available Baseball Divisions of Play

Softball Divisions of Play

T-ball & Prep: Age 4-6

Majors Fastpitch Baseball: Age 11-12

Prep: Age 5-6 Farm Baseball: Age 7-8 Minors Fastpitch Baseball: Age 9-10 Majors Fastpitch Baseball: Age 11-12 Juniors & Seniors available: Age 13-16

*players age at 8/21/21 **exceptions can be made based on skill level and National Little League guidelines

*players age at 12/31/20 **exceptions can be made based on skill level and National Little League guidelines

Farm Baseball: Age 7-8

55+ Senior Apartment Living

Winter Special FREE!

11

Minors Fastpitch Baseball: Age 9-10

1st month’s rent FREE! CALL TODAY! 708-366-2206

The Altenheim

7824 West Madison Street, Forest Park, IL 708-366-2206 • www.thealtenheim.com

Additional Info:

• Little League requires a copy of a certified birth certificate & Current Proof of Residence

Register online for 2021 softball & baseball at www.brookfieldlittleleague.org

12

The Landmark, February 10, 2021

Growing Community Media & A Tribe Called Aging Present

wabi sabi F I L M F E S T I V A L

Our Covid-19 free gift to the community watch it free on ZOOM in your own home

Appreciating the beauty of impermanence, a quarterly Film Series encouraging everyone to embrace and respect our aging population and the transformation of our society.

Duty

Free

DUTY FREE Friday, February 12 • 10am A FILM BY SIAN-PIERRE REGIS

Rebecca worked every day of her life as a hotel housekeeper to give her two sons, Sian-Pierre and Gabriel, every opportunity life could afford. When it was time for Sian-Pierre to go to college, she even cashed out her 401K to give him the best education possible. But when she was suddenly fired from her job at 75, Rebecca was left with nothing: no savings, no safety net, and no future job prospects. Now, Sian-Pierre is giving her back the life she sacrificed, and helping her to reclaim her future, one bucket-list adventure at a time.

Ageism and Financial Insecurity in America are pervasive. Older folks are invisible in their communities, workplaces, and, sometimes, within their own families. An estimated 25 million won’t have enough money to get through retirement age.

Trailer | New York Times Article | Website | Email

DIRECTOR Sian-Pierre Regis WILL JOIN US FOR A POST-FILM Q+A/DISCUSSION Sponsors

Learn more and register at: eventbrite.com/d/online/duty-free/

The Landmark, February 10, 2021

So much to

ALEX ROGALS/Staff Photographer

13

at RSC

VISIT: riversideswimclub.net

READY TO ROLL: RBHS unior Joevonn McCottry will be one of the starters coach Mike Reingruber will be relying on when the basketball season kicks off this week.

High school hoops hits the hardwood this week RBHS boys, girls look to build on last year’s success

By BOB SKOLNIK Contributing Reporter

High school basketball kicks off this week, nearly three months late and pandemicshortened. The season will be a month-long sprint through March 13 and will finish up without a state tournament. But players and coaches are just happy to have the chance to play.

“We’re excited to get going,” said RBHS boys basketball coach Mike Reingruber.

One rule change this year is that there will be no jump balls. The visiting team will take the ball out to begin the game and then the alternate possession rule will be used.

Players will be required to wear face masks on the court and a maximum of 50 spectators will be allowed at games played at the Riverside-Brookfield High School main gym. Parents of athletes will be given passes to attend games.

The RBHS boys kick off their season Tuesday evening with a game at Ridgewood

High School. No fans will be allowed at that game.

The Bulldogs return only one starter.

6-foot 3-inch junior J.P. Hanley, from last year’s team that finished 22-11, tied for the conference title with Chicago Christian, and won an IHSA regional title before losing to Bogan in the sectional round.

Only one senior, 6-foot sharpshooter Michael Bloodgood, will start for the Bulldogs on Tuesday. Three other juniors, 6-2 Joevonn McCottry, 6-3 Joe Gilhooley, and 6-0 Cory Baker, will join Bloodgood and Hanley in the starting lineup. The Bulldogs have no player taller than 6-3 on the varsity roster this season.

Six-foot-three freshman Will Gonzalez and 6-1 senior Julian Colon, a transfer from Lincoln Park, are expected to play significant roles off the bench.

The Bulldogs have a 15-game schedule, 12 conference games and three non-conference games against St. Laurence, Nazareth, and See HOOPS on page 17

ASSISTED LIVING • SHELTERED CARE • MEMORY CARE • SKILLED NURSING

Now safely moving new residents to our small, wooded campus.

A safe & smart choice.

Choosing a community you can trust has never been more difficult.

Our community has an impeccable record of safety during the COVID-19 crisis and we will stop at nothing to make sure it continues.

We would be honored for your family to be part of ours.

CONTACT US FOR AN OUTDOOR VISIT 2800 Des Plaines Avenue, North Riverside, IL 60546 (708) 477-5092 | CaledoniaSeniorLiving.org

Limited availability!

14

The Landmark, February 10, 2021

BORZYM

‘Just going to fight it’ from page 1 “We were having a great December and holiday season,” said Borzym, whose “anniversary bouquets,” sold on the weekends, proved to be a hit. “It was so fun and we were having so many customers coming in.”

Everything changed on the morning of Dec. 19. Borzym awoke at 3:30 a.m. with severe pain in his abdomen and lower back. Three hours later, Borzym’s husband, Jim Deacon, drove him from their Forest Park home to the Rush Oak Park Hospital emergency room.

Many hours later, he underwent surgery to relieve a urinary tract blockage, but the news was worse than that. Doctors also informed the 62-year-old Borzym that he had Stage 4 prostate cancer, and it had metastasized into his skull, spine and the lymph nodes in his neck.

Borzym said follow-up visits to his oncologist have been hopeful. While he’ll be on medication from here on out, his doctors believe he has many years of good quality life ahead.

“Jim and I are thinking 15 to 20,” Borzym said, after a recent positive trip to the oncologist. “We’re just going to fight it, tooth and nail.”

A medical emergency was not something Borzym had planned for. Since leaving his job 15 years ago as an aide at Riverside-Brookfield High School, Borzym’s health insurance policy has been a basic one.

After all, Borzym, who was also the cheerleading coach for 17 years at RBHS, had always been hale and hearty.

“I never looked back on [deciding to go with a basic insurance policy],” Borzym said.

“There was no clue, no sign there was anything wrong with me physically.”

As Borzym recovered from the surgery the week before Christmas – with a busy flower shop in holiday overdrive – the cavalry arrived – with family and friends taking on everything from flower design to deliveries.

Now an online fundraiser is making sure Borzym and Deacon can cope with the medical bills that are starting to mount.

Last week, three of Borzym’s customers who have become close friends, Mary Vyskocil, Anne Kissel and Rosemary Lynch, launched a GoFundMe page, named “Calling All Angels” to raise the money. Initially, they set the goal at $25,000, but within just a couple of days more than 300 contributors had blown past that amount.

“We’re still floored. My husband, Jim, and I don’t know the words to describe it. It’s unbelievable, it’s so frickin’ humbling. One never knows the impact they have on a community.

The outpouring of love and support has been amazing.”

Vyskocil said she credits Borzym with her friendship with Lynch. Both were regular customers at the flower shop and would run into each other there so regularly they struck up a rapport. Kissel was also a Christopher Mark fan who was friends with Lynch.

“Every Saturday we’d get coffee and go talk

ALEX ROGALS/Staff Photographer

STAYING STRONG: Chris Borzym (right) and his husband, Jim Deacon, in the living room of their Forest Park home. Borzym says of his experience during the past month and a half, “One never knows the impact they have on a community. The outpouring of love and support has been amazing.” to Chris,” Vyskocil said.

After learning about Borzym’s diagnosis and insurance situation, the women approached him about how they could help and suggested the GoFundMe. “When someone is in need of help around here, everyone wants to help in some way,” Vyskocil said. “The GoFundMe was one way people feel they can make some type of contribution.”

Vyskocil said she’s been overwhelmed by the response. The page, which can be found online at tinyurl.com/qxmyx3nj, went live Feb. 2, posted first by Borzym’s daughter, Sarah, on Facebook. The community quickly responded.

As of the morning of Feb. 9, the page had raised $38,350 from more than 400 donations, and the contributions are being funneled directly into a special account Borzym has set up to pay healthcare costs.

“It’s like the movie ‘It’s a Wonderful Life,’” Vyskocil said. “I told him, ‘You’re the richest man in town.’ And it had nothing to do with us, it’s all about him.”

The GoFundMe also got a boost from Borzym’s longtime friend Marcey Raymond Kusper, a Brookfield resident who runs the Brookfield Connections group on Facebook, which has more than 11,000 members.

She is also the mom of Maxx Kusper, the 11-year-old Brookfield boy who was critically injured last March when he was struck by a train while crossing the Prairie Avenue crossing.

Borzym, who did the flowers for Marcey’s wedding as well as those for her two sisters,

MORE

Chris Borzym and Jim Deacon offer their thanks to those who have supported them.

SEE LETTERS, PAGE 16 was among those who helped raise awareness and funds for the family as Maxx made a remarkable recovery in the following months.

“Maxx’s story has been an inspiration to me,” Borzym said.

The financial support is important not only for the medical expenses. With the pandemic shutting down business completely for a time last spring, Borzym said he has put any profits in 2020 back into the business.

“I haven’t been paid since last March,” Borzym said. “Since then, we’ve been living on Jim’s retirement income. We really can’t afford to go into our savings.”

The GoFundMe campaign has been just a part of the outpouring of support Borzym and his business has received and continues to receive.

Although Borzym himself is back at the flower shop, he finds himself tiring more quickly, so he’s only there half a day in the morning. His employee since 2012, designer Klaryse Ellis holds down the fort in the afternoons.

“It’s been a nightmare for Chris, but all the

believers are coming through for him,” Ellis said. “I’m doing everything I can to help him out and trying to remain positive.”

The week before Christmas was an allhands-on-deck affair, said Borzym. Longtime friend Eileen Piper-Simpson, who is an assistant principal of an elementary school in Berwyn as well as a flower designer, and her daughter, Maggie, came to the shop after the school day ended.

His sister, Kim Borzym and sister-in-law Jeannie Jaeger, worked the front of the shop, assisting customers, and Borzym’s friend Jimmy Johnson and nephew Ryce Borzym made deliveries.

“It was amazing the amount of work they did.”

The Witken family of North Riverside, whose child Borzym coached on the RBHS cheerleading team, has dropped off two dozen meals for Chris and Jim at their home.

And as the Valentine’s Day rush approaches, Sharon Flaim is bringing in a crew from her events business Catherine’s Community Closet to help out at the shop.

Borzym has kept a journal on a website called Caring Bridge, where he’s posted photos, updates on his treatment, well wishes from friends and family and a poem he wrote called “My Cancer, My It” – his pledge to fight the disease -- which he reads every day for the mental boost it provides him.

Kissel was instrumental in setting up the account for Borzym.

“We’re going to make it work,” Borzym said. “It’s onward and upward. We don’t allow any negativity.”

The Landmark, February 10, 2021

15

Brookfield weekly virus cases drop to Sept. levels 7-day positivity rate in the village plummets to 2.08 percent

By BOB UPHUES Editor

Brookfield saw the fewest number of new cases of COVID-19 during a one-week period since mid-September 2020, according to the latest figures from the Cook County Department of Public Health as of the morning of Feb. 9.

After seeking new cases skyrocket weekly to triple digits through much of November and remain near or above 80 per week through December and into January, the number of people who were either confirmed or probably positive for COVID-19 in the past week plummeted to 13.

That’s the lowest one week total since the period between Sept. 8-15, according to county data, and one the two lowest weekly totals since mid-July 2020.

Just a week earlier, Brookfield had seen its COVID-19 cases numbers increase to 34, but the decline in the most recent week-long period also tracked with a corresponding drop in positivity rates, according to the online COVID dashboard maintained by the Northwestern University School of Medicine.

According to that database, which compiles JULIE MORRISON publicly available State senator resources, the rolling seven-day positivity rate for Brookfield as of Feb. 8 was 2.08 percent, down from the 14-day average of 3.7 percent.

Since Cook County began tracking COVID-19 data online last March, 12 Brookfield residents have reportedly died from the disease. There were no additional fatalities last week. The last Brookfield resident to have died from COVID-19, according to the Cook County Medical Examiner, was on Jan. 22.

Riverside also saw its one-week total of new COVID-19 cases fall by the morning of Feb. 9 to its lowest level since October. In the past week, 12 residents of Riverside were either confirmed or probable for COVID-19, continuing a three-week trend of declining numbers of new cases.

The village has not seen so few cases in a one-week period since the week of Oct. 6-13, 2020, when there were 10 new cases reported.

Three Riverside residents have died from COVID-19; the most recent fatality was reported Dec. 17.

However, that decline in new cases in Riv-

“Many people across the state who are eligible for the vaccine haven’t been able to get their dose – and that’s disheartening.”

erside is not reflected in the ZIP code’s sevenday rolling positivity rate, because numbers of new cases in North Riverside have not declined as steadily.

For the week-long period ending the morning of Feb. 9, there were 18 new North Riverside residents either confirmed or probable for COVID-19, up from 13 the prior week.

As a result, the seven-day rolling positivity rate for the 60546 ZIP code, which includes both Riverside and North Riverside, was 4.59 as of Feb. 8, according to Northwestern’s online dashboard, slightly higher than the 14day rolling average of 4.32.

Four North Riverside residents have died from COVID-19 since the pandemic began last March, with the most recent fatality reported on Jan. 11.

Since the pandemic began COVID-19 case totals in each village, as of the morning of Feb. 9, stood at 1,569 in Brookfield, 794 in Riverside and 497 in North Riverside.

State vaccine rollout questioned The state administered 64,469 COVID-19 vaccinations statewide over the weekend following a single-day record for vaccinations on Friday. As of Monday, the state had issued over 1.3 million doses, with 2.3 percent of the population having been fully vaccinated.

Illinois has ranked near the bottom of all 50 states in vaccines administered thus far, according to a New York Times database, leading some state lawmakers to call for increased transparency and a more effective process for allowing eligible residents to re-

ceive vaccines.

On Monday, Senator Julie Morrison, DLake Forest, announced that the Senate Health Committee will hold a special hearing on Feb. 11 regarding the state’s COVID-19 vaccination plan.

“The COVID-19 vaccine is the greatest line of defense we have against the pandemic,” Morrison said in a news release. “Unfortunately, many people across the state who are eligible for the vaccine haven’t been able to get their dose – and that’s disheartening.”

The virtual hearing, scheduled for noon on Thursday, will feature Illinois Department of Public Health Director Dr. Ngozi Ezike, as well as representatives from the Chicago and Sangamon County Health Departments.

The hearing will also include Walgreens and CVS pharmacies, the two companies responsible for issuing COVID-19 vaccines at long-term care facilities through the federal government’s Pharmacy Partnership Program. So far, 212,256 doses out of 496,100 allocated vaccines have been issued at long-term care facilities.

According to the news release, the subject matter hearing will focus on frequently asked questions and concerns regarding the rollout and supply of the COVID-19 vaccine, and aims to “help vaccine distribution become more convenient and readily available.”

The hearing will be streamed on the General Assembly’s website, ilga.gov. The Senate is also accepting written testimony from members of the public.

Tim Kirsininkas of Capitol News Illinois contributed to this report.

Everything Plumbing & Drainage Water Heaters • Drippy Faucets Sump Pumps • Sewage Pumps Clogged Drains

Connell Plumbing 708-531-9478 Free Estimates Mon-Sat 24 hour emergency

Brookfield Resident Licensed & Insured P.L. #058-198117

CALL NOW! 708-531-9478 30 years in business Handyman Services Available

Golden Wok Restaurant 1122 Maple - 17th Ave. La Grange Park • 354-3930 Finest Cantonese and Mandarin Food at reasonable prices.

WE NOW DELIVER TO RIVERSIDE AREA CALL FOR DETAILS

Fast Carry-outs or enjoy Lunch & Dinner in our new Dining Room • Serving Beer & Wine•

16

The Landmark, February 10, 2021

Opinion KOSEY CORNER

THE LANDMARK VIEW

Cracking the code

B

rookfield is perhaps not alone in its apparently loose application of the zoning code over the decades. Go to any suburb built up during the first half of the 20th century and you’re bound to see some strange things – apartment buildings in the middle of single-family residential areas, homes set to the rear of lots, driveways that appear to lead directly to what is now a family room instead of a garage.

As municipalities adopted zoning codes, they sometimes, like Brookfield, looked around at what already existed and tried to write a code that tried to shoehorn in all of the irregularities.

Over time, local leaders would realize that some of these situations were ones they didn’t want repeated – for example, people deciding they want a driveway for a home that otherwise could accommodate an alley-facing garage.

Officials would rewrite codes, sometimes prohibiting certain things, like allowing new curb cuts for residential lots. A few years ago, Brookfield decided to prohibit new curb cuts and the code reflected that prohibition. Problematically, the village also apparently turned a blind eye to developers going ahead and adding new or moving curb cuts in their construction plans.

More recently, last November, the village board amended the curb cut code to make them special uses and subject to a public hearing process. Last month when a development company tested that special use process, they were stunned to learn that their request was frowned upon.

Brookfield has been popular with new home developers in recent years. The trend in Brookfield is for older, smaller homes to be demolished and replaced by fairly large new builds, often with attached garages that call for driveways.

The homes have proved popular and have sold for amounts in the $500,000 to $600,000 range – a far cry from the kinds of sales typical just a decade ago, when they were half that.

As these kinds of new developments proliferate in Brookfield, and we have no reason to believe they won’t keep coming, the village is going to have to nail down exactly what it wants to see with respect to new residential driveways and where they ought to be located.

The case turned down by the Planning and Zoning Commission, at 4302 Maple Ave., is a tough call. The developer wants to move the curb cut – one already exists at the rear of the lot – closer to Maple Avenue to allow room for a fenced backyard.

Of course, it’s the size of the house that makes a rear detached garage undesirable. It’s a much larger home than existed there before. But if this is the kind of development village leaders see as desirable in the future, it’s something they’re going to have to come to grips with.

Then, once they get this code nailed down, they need to apply it consistently to avoid these kinds of situations in the future.

Sledding an annual ritual for generations

‘R

osebud!” That’s, of course, the final word uttered by Orson Welles as the dying Charles Foster Kane in the 1941 movie “Citizen Kane.”

It wasn’t until the end of the movie that we learn Rosebud was Kane’s snow sled as a child.

Rosebud came to mind as I saw the children sledding at Swan Pond this past weekend, thanks to a new layer of snow.

Glimpsing the sleds going down the hill, I realize that many of those children are second or third generation Riversiders partaking in the local winter fun.

Early sleds were similar to Rosebud, flat wooden affairs with metal runners, which, if they ran over you, could be very dangerous. They also had a rope to make it easier to pull the sled up the hill for another trip down. Kids would fly down the hill sitting up on the sled or lying flat, steering it as best they could.

Some who didn’t have sleds made makeshift ones out of cardboard, but the best was the disk sled made of plastic. It was easier to carry around, lighter and less expensive.

They didn’t last as long but they served the purpose and came in bright colors. Both sled types also

worked on the toboggan run at Swan Pond, which was located across from the Presbyterian Church. It has been long gone and, for safety purposes, probably a good idea it was removed.

Sledding at Swan Pond provided a great outlet at just the right time. With everybody pent up in their homes, they needed to get out. Masks? They had scarves wrapped around their little faces they could hardly see. Social distancing was followed as well as it could be. The kids kept sledding until the snow wore off and showed a bare hill. But, Mother Nature sent a fresh blanket of the white stuff to keep the action continuing.

I also saw some cross-country skiers along the river -- a great activity and you get to enjoy beautiful scenery as you plod along. It also was an activity that used to be very popular here years ago.

Well, I know we have an old sled on the shelf in the garage, somewhat like Rosebud, but I’m not dragging it down to try it. I’m content to watch the snow and the birds at the birdfeeders from inside.

It’s a good week to have a cup of cocoa or glass of wine and watch “Citizen Kane.” Now there’s a good Valentine idea! Stay warm and safe!

JOANNE KOSEY

LETTERS

A big thanks to all of our angels Jim and I wanted to somehow thank everyone for their love, support, and positivity, but we didn’t know how we could do so on such a large scale.

When Bob Uphues called and said he wanted to share our story, that gave us the answer.

The night the GoFundMe to assist us went public, we honestly did not know what to expect. As the night progressed, we could not believe what was happening. Mere words cannot express how astounded we were (and still are). My daughter in Minnesota was in tears all night, as were we.

“Thank you” just doesn’t seem to say it all.

Since that first night, I’ve been looking back on my life and I can honestly say that I never knew I had such an impact on others. I’ve gone through my life just doing what I love to do, enjoying my passions, helping others, and just trying to be a good person. You have all shown me that I made some kind of mark on this world. I am so completely

humbled.

So, to every family member, every friend, every acquaintance, every customer past and present, every cheerleader through 37 years of coaching, every cheer family, every cheer friend, every former Riverside-Brookfield co-worker, every fellow business person, every stranger, every anonymous person and Richard A. (whom I haven’t seen in 48 years), Jim and I thank you from the bottom of our hearts.

For every donation, every greeting card, every Facebook message, every gift card, every meal, every text, every phone call, every prayer and every bit of positive energy, again, we thank you.

And so, to thank all of you, I promise to fight ever harder each day, month, and year. It’s onward and upward!

With tons of love,

Chris Borzym and Jim Deacon Forest Park

The Landmark, February 10, 2021

17

Athletes happy to be competing – even masked up Badminton matches kicked off restarted sports calendar last week

By BOB SKOLNIK Contributing Reporter

The high school sports season, interrupted for three months by a spike in COVID-19 cases throughout the state, got off to good restart for the Riverside-Brookfield High School badminton team last week with the Bulldogs defeating Timothy Christian 14-1 in a dual meet at the RBHS gym, without spectators.

Each RBHS player played three matches in a roundrobin format. For the players, it was just a thrill to be back playing competitive matches after their season last year was cancelled due to the pandemic.

“It was definitely really nice to be back, it’s really fun,” said RBHS senior Madeline Pollock after the meet.

“It feels surreal because I never thought that I would have the opportunity to come back and play like this.

It means a lot because I really, really miss badminton.”

Pollock, the Bulldogs’ No. 2 player, won two of her three matches against Timothy Christian.

All the players competed while wearing face masks.

“It’s difficult. There’s a lot sweat and it’s kind of gross, but I would do anything to be back, so I’m willing to deal with,” Pollock said.

HOOPS from page 13 Andrew. The Bulldogs open the season with four consecutive away games before their first home game Feb. 19 against St. Edward.

With the absence of summer and fall leagues due to the pandemic, it may take some time for the young team to jell.

“With a kind of inexperienced group coming back and not having a traditional offseason to kind of figure things out and with short practice, I think it’s going to trying to figure

Before practices officially started last month, Pollock honed her skills by occasionally playing badminton at a facility in Naperville where players could rent court time.

Pollock attends all of her classes remotely, so coming to school for badminton practice is a highlight of her day.

“I look forward to coming here every day because it is kind of tiring sitting at my computer all day and not talking to any of my friends,” Pollock said. “When I do come in person it’s really nice. It’s like, ‘Oh, other people exist.’”

Teammate Lily Ransel, another fully remote student, feels the same way about coming to school for practice.

“You get to see other people and talk to people every day,” Ransel said.

Ransel, a senior and the Bulldogs No. 5 player, won all three of her matches against Timothy Christian. Ransel said competing against another team brought a sense of normality to a school year in which many of the typical things a high school student would do, like going to football games or dances, were not taking place.

“It’s a lot of fun to get to play and actually have competition and not just have practices,” Ransel said. “This felt a lot more normal than a lot of the other stuff we’ve been doing.”

things out early in the year, but I expect us to get better and better,” Reingruber said. “I really like the group that we have.”

The Bulldogs have won conference titles 18 of the last 19 years, so that’s always a goal.

“That’s what we set out for every year,” Reingruber said. “There are some schools that are going to be pretty good, that have a lot coming back, but we’re not playing to finish second.

“Especially this year with no state tournament this is it, this is what we’re playing for.”

Loftus leads RBHS girls front line The RBHS girls basketball team returns

Eleanor E. Hayley, 96

Eleanor E. Hayley (nee the late Hank Westphal, Westphal), 96, of Brookfield, Charlie (Doris) Westphal died Feb. 1, 2021. Ms. Hayley and Irving Westphal; Eiwas retired from a job as a leen (Bill) Rice; and the bank teller. aunt of many nieces and She was the wife of the nephews. late Maanix “Jack” HayDue to COVID and variley; the mother of Ronald ants, a memorial service (Donna) Hayley and Gayle will be held in the future.

Hayley; the grandmother of Interment is private.

Jeanne (Shawn) O’Connell, Hitzeman Funeral Home, ELEANOR HAYLEY Jacqueline (Keith) Belknap Brookfield, handled arand Cade (Monique) Cunningham; the rangements. great grandmother of Chloe O’Connell, If you wish to send a sympathy card Hayley Belknap, Ella Belknap, Kira to the family, send it to Hitzeman FunerO’Connell, Kaitlyn O’Connell and Elara al Home, 9445 31st St., Brookfield, 60513 Cunningham; the sister of Mary Esser c/o Eleanor Hayley family.

WHAT A RACKET: RBHS sophomore Sophie Swicionis returns a volley during a badminton match against Timothy Christian in Riverside on Feb.3.

three starters, including career scoring leader Brenna Loftus, from a 30-4 team that won conference and regional titles last year before losing to Kenwood in the sectional.

Loftus, a 5-8 senior forward, averaged nearly 30 points a game last year and is a four-year starter who has scored more than 2,000 points in her career. She broke Maggie McCloskey’s career scoring mark last year. Loftus scored 1,044 points last year, shattering McCloskey’s single season record of 691 points set in 2006.

The other returning starters are inside players Hannah Organ, a 5-8 junior, and Abigail Yager, a 5-11 senior.

Organ is fierce inside.

OBITUARIES

Retired bank teller

ALEX ROGALS/Staff Photographer

“She’s our monster rebounder, double, double kid,” coach Mark Ruge said. “Plays every minute of every game; she’s our enforcer down there. She’s literally a beast on both ends of the court for us.”

Yager, meanwhile, is a force on defense, according to Ruge.

“She does all the dirty work also, boarding, she’s very lengthy, helps us control the inside.”

Ruge said.

Fighting for the starting spots in the backcourt are 5-3 seniors Daniella Ullo and Tess Bruno and 5-4 junior Shannon Malloy.

The Bulldogs open their season at home, hosting Rosary at 7 p.m. on Feb. 11.

Minette Mueller, 100 Retired office manager

Jacob Lams, Matthew Lams, Ken Minette Mueller (nee Rockhoff), Mueller, Margo Mueller, Bob Sheen 100, a lifetime resident of Brookfield, and Max Sheen; the great-greatdied Feb. 2, 2021. grandmother of Wyatt Davis; and Ms. Mueller was a lifetime contribthe sister of the late Eileen (the late uting member of St. Paul’s Lutheran Donald) Zirzow.

Church, where her father Rev. Oscar A funeral service was held Feb. Rockhoff presided for over 35 years.

5 at St. Paul Lutheran Church in She was retired from a job as an office manager for a food service company.

Brookfield, followed by interment She was the wife of the late Orville at Woodlawn Cemetery, Forest Mueller; the mother of Nancy (Ted) Park.

MINETTE MUELLER Lams and the late Allen Mueller; Memorials are appreciated to St. the grandmother of Todd (Carolyn) Paul Lutheran Church, 9035 Grant Lams, Natalie Minette, Erich (Jennifer) Lams, Ave., Brookfield, 60513.

Scott (Toni) Mueller and Brooke Mueller; the If you wish to send a sympathy card to the great-grandmother of Erica (Eric) Davis, Ste- family, send it to Hitzeman Funeral Home, 9445 ven Lams, Morgan Lams, Amanda Lams, Julia 31st St., Brookfield, 60513, c/o Minette Mueller (Alex) Hermansen, Valerie Kleier, Ashley Lams, family.

18

The Landmark, February 10, 2021 New local ads this week

HOURS: 9:00 A.M.– 5:00 P.M. MON–FRI

WEDNESDAY

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

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

YOUR WEEKLY AD

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

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

Wednesday Journal Classified must be notified before the second insertion.

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

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

HELP WANTED

CITY RENTALS DELUXE 3BR APT 5955 W HURON First Floor. Large kitchen, all electric appliances. Near West Suburban Hospital. Near all public trans. $1150/mo.

Call 773-637-8677 for appt.

YOUTH DEVELOPMENT SPECIALIST HEPHZIBAH CHILDREN’S ASSOCIATION PART TIME POSITIONS AVAILABLE The program will follow the safety Hephzibah Children’s Association guidelines of the IDPH regarding is a renowned social service agenface masks, social distancing and cy in Oak Park, IL that has been cleaning & disinfecting. helping children thrive and families Requirements include: flourish through innovative community-based programs.

• Minimum of 6 semester hours in education, recreation, social work, The Day Care Program is accepting or related college courses applications for February – June, • Experience working with children 2021 school year. We seek individuals to provide care and supervision If you are interested please contact: of 5-11-year-old children. Positions are Monday through Friday from Amy O’Rourke, Director of Day Care by email at: 12:15 – 6:00 pm. aorrouke@hephzibahhome.org include letter of interest and resume.

Responsibilities include assisting with and monitoring e-learning, suHephzibah Children’s Association is pervising arts and crafts, activities, an equal opportunity employer. We sports, group games, and indoor welcome qualified applicants from and outdoor play, lunch and snack, all backgrounds to apply. We value, and homework help. advocate for and support diversity throughout our organization. We The program begins in February embrace a respectful, multicultural, and will be in Oak Park, IL serving environment for employees and the 5-11-year-old (K-5th grade) chilclients we serve. dren.

HELP WANTED DEPUTY FIRE CHIEF OF EMS & INFECTIOUS DISEASE The Village of Oak Park is seeking qualified candidates for the position of Deputy Fire Chief of EMS & Infectious Disease in the Fire Department. This position will direct, manage, supervise, and coordinate the programs and activities of the Fire Department’s Emergency Medical Services and Infectious Disease Division; to coordinate assigned activities with other Village departments, divisions, and outside agencies; and to provide highly responsible and complex administrative support to the Fire Chief and Public Health Director when assigned. Applicants are encouraged to visit the Village of Oak Park’s website at http://www. oak-park.us/jobs. First review of applications will be February 21, 2021.

FIRE MARSHALL The Village of Oak Park is seeking qualified candidates for the position of Fire Marshal with the Oak Park Fire Department This position will manage, supervise, and coordinate the activities and operations of the Fire Prevention Bureau. Asist in the development, implementation, and coordination of various programs within the Bureau. Applicants are encouraged to visit the Village of Oak Park’s website at http://www. oak-park.us/jobs. First review of applications will be February 26, 2021.

SENIOR SERVICES SENIOR SERVICES At We All Care Home Care Agency we offer in home care services in senior. We make sure you or your family member safe and comfortable in their home. We assistant with cooking, cleaning, transportation, assistant with vitals, Medication reminder and much more. Feel free to call 773-827-4543 Lost & Found, Items for Sale, and To Be Given Away ads run free in Wednesday Classified. To place your ad, call 708-613-3342

OFFICE & RETAIL SPACE FOR RENT RIVER FOREST–7777 Lake St. * 1116 sq. ft. * 1400 sq. ft. Dental Office RIVER FOREST–7756 Madison St. * 960 sq. ft.

OAK PARK–6142-44 Roosevelt Rd. * 3 & 5 room office suites FOREST PARK–7736 Madison St. *2500 sq. ft. unit Strand & & Browne Strand Browne 708-488-0011 708-488-0011

SUBURBAN RENTALS

ELECTRICAL Ceiling Fans Installed

A&A ELECTRIC

Let an American Veteran do your work

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

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

CEMETERY PLOTS 4 FOREST HOME CEMETERY PLOTS 4 Forest Home cemetery plots available together or separately. Easy access and exit, in desirable Garden Sec. 61, Lot 342-A spaces 1,2,3,4. $1650 each, transfer costs not included.

Call 847-468-0013 and leave message

WANTED TO BUY

FLOORS

OAK PARK: ROOSEVELT/ OAK PARK AVE. CORRIDOR 2BR 4RMS close to blue line. On site laundry, parking, heat & water incl. $1200/ month 708-383-9223

WANTED MILITARY ITEMS: Helmets, medals, patches, uniforms, weapons, flags, photos, paperwork, Also toy soldiers – lead, plastic – other misc. toys.

Call Uncle Gary 708-522-3400

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

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

SUBURBAN RENTALS

SUBURBAN RENTALS

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

OAK PARK & FOREST PARK

708-386-7355

MMpropMgmt.com

Apartment listings updated daily at:

ELECTRICAL

KLIS FLOORING INC.

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

708-296-2060

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

FREE ESTIMATES Excellent References No Job Too Small

HAULING BASEMENT CLEANING

Appliances & Furniture Removal Pickup & Delivery.

708-848-9404

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

FREE SERVICE CALL WITH REPAIR AND SENIOR/VETERAN DISCOUNT.

708-785-2619 or 773-585-5000

708-488-9411

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

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

Selling your home by owner?

Advertise in Wednesday Classified!

Call: 708-613-3342

PAINTING & DECORATING

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

CLASSIC PAINTING

Ask for John

708.749.0011

773-637-0692

Fast & Neat Painting/Taping/Plaster Repair Low Cost

Attention! Homeimprovement pros!

Reach the people making the decisions – your target demographic.

Place an ad in Wednesday Classifieds!

Call 708/613-3342

PLASTERING

PUBLIC NOTICES

McNulty Plastering & Stucco Co.

Small & big work. Free estimates.

Complete Plaster, Stucco & Re-Coating Services

708/386-2951 • ANYTIME Work Guaranteed

Licensed, Bonded, Insured, & EPA Certified Expert craftsmanship for over 50 years

Notice of Invitation to Bid to Visit Oak Park Visit Oak Park will receive Bids from qualified vendors until 5:00 p.m. on Friday, March 5, 2021 for the following: Visit Oak Park Digital Tourism Platform

REFINISHING Terry's

Woodwork Restoration On-site refinishing of wood

and fiberglass since 1977.

Includes doors, woodwork, windows, staircases and new woodwork etc. All work done by hand. NO sanders. Your unfinished project my specialty!

References available.

Contact Terry Seamans at 630-379-7148 or terryseamans@yahoo.com

PUBLIC NOTICES

Visit Oak Park will receive proposals from responsible vendors to provide the Bureau with a digital tourism marketing platform for creating travel itineraries, with features for virtual passports as well as discounted tickets and coupons. A full copy of the RFP is available by contacting Eric Wagner at eric@visitoakpark.com.

Visit Oak Park reserves the right to issue proposal documents and specifications only to those vendors deemed qualified. For more information, call Visit Oak Park at 708-524-7800.

Published in Wednesday Journal February 10, 2021

Notice of Invitation to Bid to Visit Oak Park

Notice of Invitation to Bid to Visit Oak Park Visit Oak Park will receive Bids from qualified vendors until 5:00 p.m. on Friday, March 5, 2021 for the following: Visit Oak Park Digital Marketing Services Visit Oak Park will receive proposals from responsible vendors to assist the bureau in the management and execution of digital marketing services, including the development and execution of the Bureau’s digital marketing campaigns. A full copy of the RFP is available by contacting Eric Wagner at eric@visitoakpark.com.

Visit Oak Park will receive Bids from qualified vendors until 5:00 p.m. on Friday, March 5, 2021 for the following: Visit Oak Park Search Engine Optimization Visit Oak Park will receive proposals from responsible vendors to provide search engine optimization for the Bureau’s website, VisitOakPark.com. A full copy of the RFP is available by contacting Eric Wagner at eric@ visitoakpark.com.

Visit Oak Park reserves the right to issue proposal documents and specifications only to those vendors deemed qualified. For more information, call Visit Oak Park at 708-524-7800.

Visit Oak Park reserves the right to issue proposal documents and specifications only to those vendors deemed qualified. For more information, call Visit Oak Park at 708-524-7800.

Published in Wednesday Journal February 10, 2021

Published in Wednesday Journal February 10, 2021

Illinois Classified Advertising Network EVENTS

GUN SHOW - February 12-14, 2021, Fountain Hall, 8505 Durand Ave. Sturtevant/Racine,WI Friday 3pm-8pm, Saturday 9am-5pm, Sunday 9am-3pm. Large selection of guns & Ammo More info: 563-608-4401 www.marvkrauspromotions.net

Starting a New Business?

Call the experts before you place your legal ad!

Publish your assumed name legal notice here!

Call Mary Ellen for details: 708/613-3342

P

PB

The Landmark, February 10, 2021

CLASSIFIED

19

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

Let the sun shine in...

Public Notice: Your right to know

In print • Online • Available to you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, every day of the year RBLandmark.com | PublicNoticeIllinois.com PUBLIC NOTICES

PUBLIC NOTICES

PUBLIC NOTICES

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

LEGAL NOTICE The Village of Oak Park will receive sealed bids from qualified contractors at the Public Works Center, 201 South Boulevard, Oak Park, Illinois 60302 Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. local time until 3:00 p.m. on Wednesday, February 24, 2021 for the following: Village of Oak Park Water Distribution System Leak Survey Bid Number: 21-114 Bid documents may be obtained from the Village’s website at http://www.oak-park.us/bid. For questions, please call Public Works at (708) 358-5700 during the above hours.

Published in Wednesday Journal February 10, 2021

The Landmark, February 10, 2021

RBLANDMARK.COM

LEGAL NOTICE The Village of Oak Park will receive sealed bids from qualified contractors at the Public Works Center, 201 South Boulevard, Oak Park, Illinois 60302 Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. local time until 9:00 a.m. on Thursday, February 25, 2021 for the following: Village of Oak Park Large Water Meter Testing Program - 2021 Bid Number: 21-115 Bid documents may be obtained from the Village’s website at http://www.oak-park.us/bid. For questions, please call Public Works at (708) 358-5700 during the above hours.

Published in Wednesday Journal February 10, 2021

LEGAL NOTICE The Village of Oak Park will receive sealed bids from qualified contractors at the Public Works Center, 201 South Boulevard, Oak Park, Illinois 60302 Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. local time until 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, February 24, 2021 for the following: Village of Oak Park 2021 Master Meter Testing Bid Number: 21-116 Bid documents may be obtained from the Village’s website at http://www.oak-park.us/bid. For questions, please call Public Works at (708) 358-5700 during the above hours.

Published in Wednesday Journal February 10, 2021

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on 1 March 2021, at 7:00 P.M. via a Zoom web conferencing meeting, the Plan Commission of the Village of Forest Park will conduct a public hearing to consider a request for a planned development conditional use permit to allow the construction of a 57-unit residential building in the B-1 Neighborhood Shopping District, on the following described property: PARCEL 1: THAT PART OF THE SOUTH 52.0 FEET 8 INCHES OF LOTS 1,2,3 AND 4 (TAKEN AS A TRACT) IN BLOCK 1 IN THE SUBDIVISION OF BLOCK 1, 11, 12, AND 21 IN JOSEPH K. DUNLOP’S SUBDIVISION OF THE WEST HALF OF THE SOUTHEAST QUARTER OF SECTION 13, TOWNSHIP 39 NORTH, RANGE 12 EAST OF THE THIRD PRINCIPAL MERIDIAN DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS: BEGINNING AT A POINT ON THE WEST LINE OF SAID TRACT, SAID POINT BEING 2.81 FEET NORTH OF THE SOUTHWEST CORNER OF SAID TRACT; THENCE CONTINUING NORTH ALONG THE WEST LINE OF SAID TRACT, 49.86 FEET TO THE NORTH LINE OF SAID TRACT; THENCE EAST ALONG THE NORTH LINE OF SAID TRACT, 3.01 FEET; THENCE SOUTH ALONG A STRAIGHT LINE, 44.778 FEET TO A POINT WHICH IS

3.00 FEET EAST OF THE WEST LINE OF SAID TRACT; THENCE SOUTHWESTERLY ALONG A STRAIGHT LINE, 6.07 FEET TO A PLACE OF BEGINNING. PARCEL 2: LOTS 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, AND 10 IN BLOCK 1 I COMSTOCK AND DRESSEL’S SUBDIVISION OF BLOCKS 1, 11, 12, AND 21 I JOSEPH K. DUNLOP’S SUBDIVISION OF THE WEST HALF OF THE SOUTHEAST QUARTER OF SECTION 13, TOWNSHIP 39 NORTH, RANGE 12 EAST OF THE THIRD PRINCIPAL MERIDIAN, IN COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS. Commonly known as 7412 W. Harrison Street, Forest Park, Illinois.

PINs: 15-13-403-001, 15-13-403002, 15-13-403-003, 15-13-403004, 15-13-403-005, 15-13-403041, 15-13-403-007 The applicant is 7400-7412 West Harrison Street Properties, LLC Information regarding how to access the hearing via Zoom can be obtained at http://www.forestpark. net/dfp/. If you have any questions please contact the Director of Health and Safety, Steve Glinke at sglinke@forestpark.net.

Signed: Paul Barbahen, Acting Chair Plan Commission

Published in the Forest Park Review February 9th, 2021.

LEGAL NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING VILLAGE OF BROOKFIELD PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION FEBRUARY 25th, 2021 at 7:00 p.m. Regular Meeting NOTICE is hereby given that the Village of Brookfield Planning and Zoning Commission will conduct a public hearing on Thursday, February 25th, 2021 at 7:00 p.m. in the Edward Barcal Hall located at 8820 Brookfield Avenue, Brookfield, Illinois for the purpose of considering a Text Amendment to Chapter 62 of the Village Code of Ordinances to allow first floor offices in the SA-2 District.

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

Written comments may be provided prior to the public hearing to: Village of Brookfield, Planning and Zoning Commission c/o Michael J.

Schwarz, AICP, Director of Community and Economic Development, 8820 Brookfield Avenue, Brookfield, IL 60513, mschwarz@brookfieldil. gov or 708-485-1113. The application is available on file. Please reference PZC Case 21-05.

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

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

Published in Landmark February 10, 2021

LEGAL NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING VILLAGE OF BROOKFIELD PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION FEBRUARY 25th, 2021 at 7:00 p.m. Regular Meeting NOTICE is hereby given that the Village of Brookfield Planning and Zoning Commission will conduct a public hearing on Thursday, February 25th, 2021 at 7:00 p.m. in the Edward Barcal Hall located at 8820 Brookfield Avenue, Brookfield, Illinois for the purpose of considering a Text Amendment to Chapter 62 of the Village Code of Ordinances to allow new non-conforming uses.

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

Written comments may be provided prior to the public hearing to: Village of Brookfield, Planning and Zoning Commission c/o Michael J.

Schwarz, AICP, Director of Community and Economic Development, 8820 Brookfield Avenue, Brookfield, IL 60513, mschwarz@brookfieldil. gov or 708-485-1113. The application is available on file. Please reference PZC Case 21-06.

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

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

Published in Landmark February 10, 2021

PUBLIC NOTICES PUBLIC NOTICE Notice is hereby given, pursuant to “An Act in relation to the use of an Assumed Business Name in the conduct or transaction of Business in the State,” as amended, that a certification was registered by the undersigned with the County Clerk of Cook County. Registration Number: Y21005821 on January 28, 2021 Under the Assumed Business Name of KLM ENTERPRISES with the business located at: 1824 E 79TH ST, CHICAGO, IL 60649. The true and real full name(s) and residence address of the owner(s)/partner(s) is: LINDA LEE, 7447 S SOUTH SHORE DR APT 10J, CHICAGO, IL 60649, USA

local employees... happy employees!

Published in RBLandmark 2/10, 2/17, 2/24/2021

PUBLIC NOTICE Notice is hereby given, pursuant to “An Act in relation to the use of an Assumed Business Name in the conduct or transaction of Business in the State,” as amended, that a certification was registered by the undersigned with the County Clerk of Cook County. Registration Number: Y21005947 on February 8, 2021 Under the Assumed Business Name of GUERRERO DESIGN with the business located at 1 E. ERIE STREET SUITE 525-2263, CHICAGO, IL 60611. The true and real full name(s) and residence address of the owner(s)/partner(s) is: JULIO C GUERRERO JR. 2322 LARKIN STREET SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94109, USA. Published in Wednesday Journal 2/10, 2/17, 2/24/2021

REAL ESTATE FOR SALE IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT CHANCERY DIVISION WELLS FARGO BANK, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION AS TRUSTEE FOR OPTION ONE MORTGAGE LOAN TRUST 2006-3, ASSET-BACKED CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2006-3 Plaintiff, -v.CHARLES T. GRANT, JUANITA J. GRANT, THE PRAIRIE PLACE AT 6436 ROOSEVELT CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION Defendants 2019CH14912 6436 ROOSEVELT RD, 413 OAK PARK, IL 60304 NOTICE OF SALE PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above cause on November 5, 2020, an agent for The Judicial Sales Corporation, will at 10:30 AM on March 11, 2021, at The Judicial Sales Corporation, One South Wacker Drive, CHICAGO, IL, 60606, sell at a public sale to the highest bidder, as set forth below, the following described real estate: Commonly known as 6436 ROOSEVELT RD, 413, OAK PARK, IL 60304 Property Index No. 16-18-428-0431030, Property Index No. 16-18428-043-1054 The real estate is improved with a condo/townhouse.

Sale terms: 25% down of the highest bid by certified funds at the close of the sale payable to The Judicial Sales Corporation. No third party checks will be accepted. The balance, including the Judicial Sale fee for the Abandoned Residential Property Municipality Relief Fund,

Hire Local. Place an ad on Wednesday Classified’s Local Online Job Board.

Go to RBLandmark.com/classified today!

Contact Mary Ellen Nelligan for more information.

(708) 613-3342 • maryellen@rblandmark.com

REAL ESTATE FOR SALE

REAL ESTATE FOR SALE

REAL ESTATE FOR SALE

which is calculated on residential real estate at the rate of $1 for each $1,000 or fraction thereof of the amount paid by the purchaser not to exceed $300, in certified funds/or wire transfer, is due within twenty-four (24) hours. No fee shall be paid by the mortgagee acquiring the residential real estate pursuant to its credit bid at the sale or by any mortgagee, judgment creditor, or other lienor acquiring the residential real estate whose rights in and to the residential real estate arose prior to the sale. The subject property is subject to general real estate taxes, special assessments, or special taxes levied against said real estate and is offered for sale without any representation as to quality or quantity of title and without recourse to Plaintiff and in “AS IS” condition. The sale is further subject to confirmation by the court.

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

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

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

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

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

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

For information, examine the court

file, CODILIS & ASSOCIATES, P.C. Plaintiff’s Attorneys, 15W030 NORTH FRONTAGE ROAD, SUITE 100, BURR RIDGE, IL, 60527 (630) 794-9876 THE JUDICIAL SALES CORPORATION One South Wacker Drive, 24th Floor, Chicago, IL 60606-4650 (312) 236-SALE You can also visit The Judicial Sales Corporation at www.tjsc.com for a 7 day status report of pending sales.

CODILIS & ASSOCIATES, P.C. 15W030 NORTH FRONTAGE ROAD, SUITE 100 BURR RIDGE IL, 60527 630-794-5300 E-Mail: pleadings@il.cslegal.com Attorney File No. 14-19-11626 Attorney ARDC No. 00468002 Attorney Code. 21762 Case Number: 2019CH14912 TJSC#: 40-2378 NOTE: Pursuant to the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, you are advised that Plaintiff’s attorney is deemed to be a debt collector attempting to collect a debt and any information obtained will be used for that purpose.

Case # 2019CH14912 I3163568

20

The Landmark, February 10, 2021

NG MI O C

ON SO

442 Kent Rd, Riverside

112.5 Lincoln Ave, 2H, Riverside $109,900

621 S Plymouth Ct, #207, Chicago $249,000

3608 Wenonah Ave, Berwyn $289,900

2034 73rd Ct, Elmwood Park $374,900

192 Waubansee Rd, Riverside $539,000

1317 N Larabee #304, Chicago $589,999

178 Maplewood Rd, Riverside $625,000

4441 Wolf Rd, #210, Western Springs $759,400

144 Scottswood Rd, Riverside $799,000

AL NT E R

293 Longcommon Rd, Riverside $975,000

45 Longcommon Rd, Riverside $975,000

8613 Rockefeller Ave, Brookfield $1,800/mo.

AL NT E R

58 Lincoln #3, Riverside $1,700/mo

AL NT E R

622 Robinhood Ln, LaGrange Park $2,200/mo

EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY

Visit us at www.atproperties.com/agents/Burlington to view all of our properties and follow us on Facebook and Instagram for the latest news and updates on the local real estate market.