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Vol. 38, No. 11

@RBLandmark

March 15, 2023

Also serving North Riverside

Meet the candidates in contested races in our special section PAGE 15

LTHS school board pulls plug on Willow Springs land sale, for now

Elevating teen mental health

NAMI Metro Chicago and Pillars Community Health open doors to The Loft at 8 Corners SEE STORY, PAGE 10 BOB UPHUES

Cutting the ribbon on The Loft at 8 Corners on March 8 were (from left) Tina Ramirez Moon, program officer, Healthy Communities Foundation; Jesse Rosas, executive director of Proviso Township Mental Health Commission; Heather Alderman, CEO, Illinois Children’s Healthcare Foundation; Greg DiDomenico, CEO, Community Memorial Foundation; Kim Knake, executive director, NAMI Metro Suburban; Angela Curran, CEO, Pillars Community Health; Carmen Soldato, NAMI board chair; and April Schweitzer, PCH board chair.

Officials announce they are no longer soliciting or considering bids

By BOB SKOLNIK Contributing Reporter

The Willow Springs land owned by Lyons Township High School is no longer for sale.

On March 10, after a failed attempt to sell the approximately 70-acre tract the district has owned for more than half a century and weeks of intense and sustained criticism at school board meetings, the school board announced it’s no longer fielding bids. ““For now, the board is not moving forward with the process of selling the property. If the board decides to sell the property See LTHS LAND on page 34

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The Landmark, March 15, 2023

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The Landmark, March 15, 2023

By BOB UPHUES Editor

The Brookfield Conservation Commission has sought the help of the National Park Service in furthering its goal of transforming South Kiwanis Park into a sustainable nature area accessible to all residents.

In February, the commission submitted an application to the National Park Service to receive technical help from its Riverside, Trails & Conservation Assistance Program to help with community outreach, long-term planning and trail design in the wooded park.

South Kiwanis Park is a roughly 15-acre parcel of wooded park land owned by the village of Brookfield immediately south of the Burlington Northern-Santa Fe Railroad tracks, bounded on the east by Arden Avenue, on the west by Salt Creek and on the south by Southview Avenue.

In recent years, Conservation Commission members and other volunteers have devoted many hours to clearing the park of invasive buckthorn, which has revealed an oak savanna habitat similar to the one at the north end of Kiwanis Park on the other side of the BNSF tracks.

That buckthorn removal work has opened up the woodland to people who want to enjoy the secluded nature area, with its mature

IN THIS ISSUE ve. field A Brook e. e Av

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sid iver

South Kiwanis Park

Burlington Ave.

Arden Ave.

With much buckthorn cleared, commission wants to activate nature area

Brookfield Village Hall

Grove Ave.

Brookfield seeks National Park Service help for South Kiwanis plan

Southview Ave. GOOGLE EARTH

shade trees, native woodland flora and wildlife, ephemeral pools filled with flood waters in hollows near the riverbank and natural overlooks.

“We think we’ve cleared about one-third of the site of buckthorn,” said Conservation Commission Chairwoman Bridget Jakubiak, who called out the efforts of volunteer Larry Pulice, who has spearheaded that effort. “We’ve gotten to a point where we need to begin the restoration piece.”

In January, commissioners heard from Mike Mencarini, a community planner from the National Park Service, about the technical assistance program. He outlined the formal application for technical assistance, but also told commissioners that the commission may also be able to leverage National Park Service assistance more informally as well.

“He really encouraged us to, if not fill out the full application, at least ask for some other technical assistance that’s rolling and a little less committed over a longer period of time, where they can come out and give some initial guidance,” said Brookfield Trustee Katie Kaluzny, who is the village board’s liaison to the Conservation Commission.

“We felt like because there was so much interest and previous mention of this area and plans for Brookfield, and all of the resto-

ration work that’s been going on, that it was at a place where we really just need that additional assistance to figure out how to make it a real activated space,” Kaluzny added.

The Conservation Commission would like to tap into the National Park Service’s expertise to convene at least two public listening sessions, with both the South Hollywood community, where the woodland is located, and the wider community to get feedback and input.

They’d also like the National Park Service’s expertise in developing a trail plan, locations for nature play areas, interpretive signage and benches. That plan can then be shared with the community and phased in over time within budgetary limits. The village likely would use such a plan to seek grant funding to implement it.

“We’d like to really have a really robust public engagement process. People have seen what we’ve done with the site and what we’re doing there,” Jakubiak said. “Now there are questions. What’s next? We want a plan we can share with them. We’re asking the Park Service to do that and get their input on that.”

Commissioners won’t have to wait long to find out if the National Park Service is interested. According to Jakubiak and Kaluzny, the agency is expected to announce its technical assistance awards in early April.

Calendar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4 Crime . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .35 Classified . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .40 Kosey Corner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .36 Opinion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .36 Obituaries. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .37 Sports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .38 Editor Bob Uphues Staff Reporters Francia Garcia Hernandez, Amaris Rodriguez Digital Manager Stacy Coleman Design/Production Manager Andrew Mead Editorial Design Manager Javier Govea Designer Susan McKelvey Sales and Marketing Representatives Marc Stopeck, Lourdes Nicholls, Kamil Brady Business & Development Manager Mary Ellen Nelligan Circulation Manager Jill Wagner EMAIL jill@oakpark.com Publisher Dan Haley Special Projects Manager Susan Walker

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

HOW TO REACH US ADDRESS 141 S. Oak Park Ave., Oak Park, IL 60302 PHONE 708-442-6739 ■ FAX 708-467-9066 E-MAIL buphues@rblandmark.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 $41 within Cook County and $51 outside the county. Advertising rates may be obtained by calling our office. Periodical rate postage paid at Oak Park, IL (USPS 0019-585). Postmaster send address corrections to Landmark, 141 S. Oak Park Ave., Oak Park, IL 60302. © 2023 Growing Community Media NFP.

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The Landmark, March 15, 2023

BIG WEEK

Chamber jazz concert

MATT ULERY

Emmanuel Episcopal Church, 203 S. Kensington Ave. in LaGrange, continues its Sounds in the Sanctuary concert series on March 18 at 7:30 p.m. with a performance by Matt Ulery’s Mannerist 11.

Known for his sweeping lyricism, unconventional phrase structures and expressionistic emotionalism, Ulery’s latest chamber-jazz orchestra project brings together eight brass and wind players from the Chicago jazz and classical/new music scenes along with piano, bass and drums.

Tickets are $25 in advance or $30 at the door ($15 for children 5-18, under 5 free). Purchase advance tickets at emmanuel-lagrange.org/music_events.

March 15-22

DEVIN ULERY

Mall hosts Play Dates for kids 4-under

North Riverside Park Mall, 7501 Cermak Road, in conjunction with the Children’s Center of Cicero/ Berwyn hosts weekly Developmental Play Dates for children ages 4-under as part of a new NRPM Kids Club.

The play dates are held every Wednesday at 10 a.m. in the Kids Play Area in the mall’s lower-level concourse. Play dates include an hour of age-appropriate storytime, music, sensory play and movement.

Connecting families and dolphins Join the Chicago Zoological Society’s Dr. Katherine McHugh, deputy program director and senior scientist with the Sarasota Dolphin Research Program, for the virtual lecture “Connecting Children and Families with Dolphin Conservation at Sarasota Bay” on March 21 at 7 p.m.

Naz hosts final Parent Speaker talk

McHugh will share some of the programs, strategies and partnerships the world’s longestrunning dolphin study uses to connect kids and families to these charismatic marine mammals and discuss dolphins’ underwater habits and how to get involved in dolphin conservation. A Q&A will follow the presentation.

The lecture is free, although a $10 donation is appreciated. Online reservations are required and can be made at CZS.org/LectureSeries.

And more Riverside Arts Center, 32 E. Quincy St., presents the 13th Annual Riverside-Brookfield High School Advanced Placement Art Exhibition through March 18 in the Freeark Gallery. Open Thursday-Saturday from 1 to 5 p.m.

There’s also “Mujer Quetzalcoatl” featuring the work of Alex Velazquez Brightbill, through March 30 in the lobby of the Riverside Township Hall, 27 Riverside Road in Riverside. Viewing hours are Monday-Thursday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and ■

Friday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

North Riverside Public Library, 2400 Desplaines Ave., presents After School Art Escape (child with adult) on March 16 at 4 p.m., Lego Club (8-under) on March 17 at 4 p.m., Intro to D&D (grades 6-12) on March 18 at1:30 p.m., Morning Munchkin Stories with Ms. Karen on March 20 at 10:30 a.m. and Safari ABCs (child with adult, every other week in Spanish) on March 22 at 10:30 a.m.

Register for programs online at northriversidelibrary.org/events-new.

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DR. LISA DAMOUR

Nazareth Academy in LaGrange Park hosts its final Parent Speaker Series presentation on March 16 at 7 p.m. via Zoom with clinical psychologist Dr. Lisa Damour, who will speak on “The Emotional Lives of Teenagers: Raising Connected, Capable, Compassionate Adolescents.”

The session is free to attend open to the public. Pre-registration is required and can be done on the school’s website at nazarethacademy.com, under the Parent/Student tab.

Linda Sokol Francis Brookfield Library, 3541 Park Ave., presents Fairytale Storytime on March 16 at 10:30 a.m., Zumba for Kids (grades K-5) on March 16 at 4 p.m., Medicare and Military Healthcare on March 17 at 11 a.m., Chair Zumba on March 17 at 1:30 p.m., Chair Yoga (virtual) on March 20 at 11 a.m., Storytime Stars (ages 2-3 with caregiver) on March 21 at 10:30 a.m. and Teen Craft: Succulent Snowglobe on March 22 at 4 p.m. Call 708-485-6917 or visit online at brookfield. evanced.info/signup to register for programs.

Riverside Public Library, 1 Burling Road, ■

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presents a Chess Meet Up (grades K-8) on March 16 at 4 p.m., Friday Storytimes (all ages) on March 17 at 9:30 and 10:15 a.m., Mini-Movers Storytime (3-under with caregiver) on March 20 at 9:30 and 10:15 a.m. and Little Hands Activity Time (best for kids 1-4) on March 21 at 9:30 a.m. To register for programs, visit online at riversidelibrary.org/events.

The Brookfield Elks Lodge, 9022 31st St., hosts bingo the second Sunday of every month.

Doors open at 1 p.m. and games start at 2 p.m. with cash payouts.

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The Landmark, March 15, 2023

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Chicago Bears award Komarek preschool teacher $1,000 Parent nominated Michelle Cole for ‘Classroom Legends’ recognition

By BOB SKOLNIK Contributing Reporter

Komarek School preschool teacher Michelle Cole and her afternoon class students got a surprise visit from a Chicago Bear last week, more than one if you count Staley, the football team’s mascot.

Bears linebacker Jack Sanborn and Staley the Bear, along with a few other representatives of the Chicago Bears organization, dropped by Cole’s preschool classroom in North Riverside on Feb. 28 to present her with a Bears Classroom Legends Award, along with her own Chicago Bears jersey, an invitation to visit the Bears training camp next summer and a $1,000 check.

Cole was nominated for the award by Komarek School parent Kelly Will. Cole has taught two of Will’s children, 6-year-old Enzo and 4-year-old Giulia, who is in Cole’s morning class this year.

“Each morning Miss Michelle greets students with a song and a smile,” said a Bears representative reading the letter Will wrote in nominating Cole for the award. “Her impact on learning starts with all her enthusiasm. In the morning when she talks about projects and activities, she

BOB SKOLNIK

Chicago Bears linebacker Jack Sanborn hands Komarek School teacher Michelle Cole with her own personalized jersey during a surprise visit on Feb. 28 when he and the team’s mascot, Staley the Bear, presented Cole with a Bears Classroom Legends Award. is so excited it becomes contagious. The way she makes learning come to life is addictive and kids want more.”

Will, an ESL teacher at Irving School in Berwyn, said she decided to nominate Cole for the award when a teacher at her school received it. She went on the Chicago Bears website and wrote her nominating letter.

“She’s just such a caring person and my kids are super shy kids and, as a parent sending them to school for the first time, you always have some butterflies, and Miss Michelle just takes all that away,” Will told the Landmark in a telephone interview. “And she just truly cares about the kids and she’s always spending her own money on materials. They’re always doing these awesome projects and I thought the $1000, I just knew she would put it to good use.”

Cole says she will probably use the money to purchase raised flowerbeds for the courtyard outside her classroom.

“This is incredible,” said a shocked Cole of the visit. “I am floored, but I’m glad that it’s with the kids, that makes

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all the difference. I don’t do it for their parents or the administration. It’s for the kids. They’re the ones that make it all worthwhile.”

The 3, 4 and 5 year olds in Cole’s afternoon class were thrilled by Staley the Bear, a few of them going in for hugs with the furry mascot.

Cole has taught preschool at Komarek School for the past 10 years. She teaches 20 kids in the morning and another 20 in the afternoon. Until this year Cole was Komarek’s only preschool teacher. Another preschool teacher was added, along with a second afternoon class.

Komarek School District 94 Superintendent Todd Fitzgerald said that Cole deserved to be recognized.

“This is outstanding for Ms. Cole,” Fitzgerald said.

“She’s just been a phenomenal teacher for us at Komarek for the last 10 years, and it’s really nice for her to get this recognition. She deserves it and she is truly a huge asset to Komarek School District 94 and all the preschool students she’s worked with for the past 10 years.”

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The Landmark, March 15, 2023

Appointed board members vie for 2-year terms in D208 Welch, Lach both running low-key campaigns

By BOB SKOLNIK Contributing Reporter

Mike Welch and Carolyn Lach sit next to each other at Riverside-Brookfield High MIKE WELCH CAROLYN LACH School District 208 Board of Education meetings. But in two months one of them won’t be West 40 Intermediate Service Center Executhere. tive Director Mark Klaisner. Welch had not That’s because the two appointed board initially applied to replace Jacobs but did so members are running against each other in once the board deadlocked. the April 4 election for a twoLach and Welch both said year term to complete the they did not want commit term Ramona Towner won to four more years. Lach bein 2021. lieves a school board member Towner resigned last Octoshould have a child in the ber when she moved out of district or a child who will be the district. Lach, a member attending the school shortly. of the Komarek District 94 Being the parent of a current school board from 2015 until RBHS student gives her a bet2021, was appointed to the ter understanding of what RBHS school board to replace is going on at the school, she Towner. said.

Welch, who had served on “I just think you have a betthe RBHS school board from ter handle on what the stu2009 until 2017, the last two dents or the youth are facing, CAROLYN LACH years as board president, was going through,” Lach said.

D208 school board candidate appointed the board in Sep“My son will come home and tember 2021 to replace Tom tell me about things that hapJacobs, who also had moved pened at school, just in genout of the district. eral, and I think if you don’t After the school deadlocked 3-3 trying to have that you might miss out on that.” pick a replacement, Welch was chosen by Welch, whose two daughters graduated

“We both knew early on that we were going to be going against each other, so we’ll just leave it up to the voters.”

from RBHS more than a decade ago, has a different viewpoint, though he once thought the same thing.

“Years ago, I did think that and I said that one time to a former board member, and then they reminded me that it was a community high school,” Welch said. “It belongs to the entire community, not just the parents whose children are in the school.”

Other than Lach having a child at RBHS, there is not a lot to differentiate the two except for Welch’s much longer time on the RBHS school board.

“We both really care about the school,” Lach said. “We both bring different assets to it.”

Both Lach and Welch are soft-spoken, and neither is campaigning very hard. Neither has campaign signs, Facebook campaign pages or campaign websites.

“I’m just hoping people will recognize my name from my experience at Komarek, or with the Boy Scouts, or with Little League or soccer and recognize that I care about kids, I care about the school,” said Lach, who works as the director of financial aid at North Park University and once was a high school math teacher.

When he ran for the school board in 2009 and 2013, Welch was an indefatigable campaigner, knocking on doors throughout the district. This time around, with his knees bothering him, he is not going door to door and is relying on a low-key campaign.

“I’ve done basically nothing but word of mouth,” Welch said.

Welch, who was elected to four-year terms on the school board in 2009 and 2013, said this campaign will be his last.

“It’s another opportunity to serve my community,” Welch said. “I would not run again.”

Welch, 62, is an IRS agent assigned to the United States Attorney’s office who typically works on criminal prosecutions. He has focused on finances during his time on the school board. Welch says maintaining balanced budgets and a strong financial position are priorities for him.

“I would also like to see progress on the communication goal and have the high school better communicate with the community,” Welch said.

Lach, 55, said she also thinks it’s important that North Riverside has representation on the school board. Another North Riverside resident from the Komarek district, Lorena Gasca, is already on the school board having been elected two years ago.

Lach and Welch do not have any strong disagreements. Running against each other was just a product of neither one of them wanting to commit to serving four more years on the school board.

“I think there’s a mutual respect there, there’s not any animosity at all,” Welch said.

“I think either one of us would do a fine job if elected.”

Lach agreed.

“There’s no hard feelings,” Lach said. “We both knew early on that we were going to be going against each other, so we’ll just leave it up to the voters.”

Name contest for LSF Brookfield Library’s new book bike Entries accepted through March 31, winner named when bike’s delivered

By BOB UPHUES Editor

The folks over at the Linda Sokol Francis Brookfield Library are planning to take the library to the people this summer via a new “book bike,” and before they take delivery they’re asking the public to give the bike a catchy name.

Through March 31, people can submit

entries by visiting brookfieldlibrary.info/ bookbike on the library’s website. The winner will be announced when the bike arrives in town, probably in May. “It’s something that’s fun,” said Christy Eyre, assistant director and marketing manager for the library. “As we saw with the snowplow contest, there are lots of creative people out there.”

Eyre is referring to the contest last De-

cember to name the Brookfield Department of Public Works’ six snowplows. The contest generated more than 1,000 entries, which residents voted on in January. The top vote getter: Clearopathra.

Book bikes are a recent trend for public libraries, said Eyre, and emerged out of the COVID-19 pandemic. As libraries closed their doors to the public for long stretches, book bikes brought library ser-

vices to people in outdoor settings.

Library officials are putting the finishing touches on their order, which will be submitted to Portland, Oregon-based Icicle Tricycles, which started out about a century ago making carts for frozen treat vendors.

Now the company make trikes for a See BOOK BIKE on page 7

The Landmark, March 15, 2023

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RBHS board incumbent advocates for those not college bound William Durkin wants school to build relationships with apprentice programs

By BOB UPHUES

board president, and Laura Hruska, the longest-serving member of the school board, as well as first-time candidates Nicholas Novak William Durkin, an incumbent Riverside- and Kenyon Duner.

He recently sat down with the Landmark Brookfield High School District 208 Board of Education candidate, is a longtime insurance for an interview at the Linda Sokol Francis broker who co-manages a century-old firm. Brookfield Library to discuss his bid for anHe’s not in a union and doesn’t work in the other term. And while he touched on a varitrades, but when it comes to high school edu- ety of subjects, from equity to a board member’s role in school governance, Durkin often cation, that’s where he focuses his attention.

While the COVID-19 pandemic temporar- returned to the subject of engaging with students who may not be interested ily derailed some of the initiain pursuing a college degree. tives Durkin was interested in “We do a great job getting kids pursuing, he saw one particular to college,” Durkin said of the breakthrough in March 2022, a education provided at RBHS. trades and career fair for RBHS “Something that I just wanted to students that introduced them help with is to try to help that 10 to a wide range of opportunities, or 20 percent that won’t go to colincluding union apprenticeship lege.” programs in trades like plumbParticularly in the wake of the ing, pipe fitting, carpentry and pandemic, which had a profound others.

WILLIAM DURKIN effect on many people’s lives and It was Durkin’s advocacy for careers, Durkin said there’s an the high school building closer opportunity for those seeking relationships with apprenticeship programs that served as the impetus for careers.

“The trades are really hungry,” Durkin the trade fair.

“What really caught me was the amount said. “They need new blood, a new generaof energy and excitement and engagement tion, because there’s a lot of retirees.”

If he’s re-elected, Durkin said he wants to from the students,” said Durkin, who is running for a second four-year term on the RBHS continue to advocate for expanding student school board on April 4. “It was so rewarding access to opportunities in the trades and other non-college track employment. He pointed to experience. to the school district’s hire in February of a “I think it opened up a lot of eyes.”

Durkin, 56, is one of five candidates run- veteran family and consumer sciences teachning for four four-year terms available in this er, who will also head up that division, as a spring’s election. His opponents include fel- positive move.

“I hope she can hit the ground running,” low incumbents Deanna Zalas, who is school Editor

range of uses, from selling ice cream and coffee to carting library materials around town. Each library bike is mounted with a reinforced frame cargo box, which opens to reveal shelves to hold books and devices, a chalkboard with a brochure holder and display rack and a flip-open shelf suitable for laptop use.

The company also custom paints the boxes as requested by its customers. Eyre said library officials are still working on the final graphic design of the box. When it’s all said and done, the bike will end up costing in the neighborhood of $5,000, Eyre said.

The library plans to use the book bike as an outreach tool at community events, like

Durkin said.

Durkin’s passion for apprenticeship opportunities in the trades comes from his family background. His grandfather immigrated to the United States from the west of Ireland. A farmer with little education and no training, Durkin’s grandfather worked as a laborer and later as a streetcar conductor.

With the high school’s demographics changing over the past two decades – RBHS is now roughly 40 percent Hispanic, some of whom are the children of immigrants or are immigrants themselves.

“Our job, I feel, is to present them with opportunities to allow them to make their own choices,” Durkin said. “We have families where maybe there’s language barriers. You have single-parent families. I think this helps out an area that may not have been realized in the past. … It’s more of a sleepy area I’d like to awaken.”

Apart from that area of interest, Durkin believes Riverside-Brookfield High School’s faculty and administration do an admirable job. The husband of a Catholic elementary school teacher, Durkin said he empathized with what teachers, who were sometimes vilified for resisting reopening classrooms sooner than some wanted, endured during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“They were getting hit from all different places,” Durkin said. “At the end of the day, there were so many unknowns – health-wise, transmission-wise.”

The high school board did not experience

some of the aggressive opposition to their COVID policies seen elsewhere, Durkin said, because it chose to follow state and federal health guidelines.

“I think the people here appreciate and know that the school is being run pretty well,” Durkin said.

He said the school was making strides in meeting goals regarding diversity, equity and inclusion, saying the board is learning from its own students and their families.

“We need to know where the problems are, so we can address it,” said Durkin, who acknowledged it was surprising no one had thought to make the school’s automated phone answering system bilingual until it was suggested by a student representative to the school board.

“After all these years, we’re like, ‘Why didn’t anybody think of that?’” Durkin said.

“It opens up our minds to different area that maybe we need to look at and either address or improve.”

Durkin said he didn’t seek a seat on the school board four years ago because he believed things were headed in the wrong direction.

“I never went in with the intentions that I’m going to be able to change this or that,” Durkin said. “My intentions were to be an advocate for that population that would not be going to college.

“That was one of my goals when I originally ran. Then things got sidelined – life, business, everything -- for a couple years.”

Linda Sokol Francis Brookfield Library will have a Book Bike, similar to the one shown at left, courtesy of Icicle Tricycles, later this spring.

the Brookfield Farmers Market. It can also be driven to various parts of the village, especially ones farther away from the library itself.

“One of the challenges for people in Brookfield is that south of Ogden, the library’s not as easily available to them,” Eyre said.

The book bike could set up shop in a place like Ehlert Park for example, and in addition to offering books to check out, patrons could check out internet hotspots or laptops and even sign up for library cards.

“We can do all the same things we can do in the library,” Eyre said.

ICICLE TRICYCLES

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The Landmark, March 15, 2023

Cock Robin sign flies the coop in Brookfield Decades-old structure deemed unsafe, but iconic local sign lives on

By BOB UPHUES

A Mild Winter, an Early Spring— What Next?

Spring is right around the corner, but this year it feels like winter never really arrived in Chicagoland; most notably, the mild temperatures Scott and continued McAdam Jr. lack of snowfall contributed to that feeling.

What would normally be a transition from snow-covered ground to the first signs of spring warming is instead frost-free soils and the emergence of perennials and bulbs shockingly earlier than expected. I have no recollection of having seen emergence this early in the season.

What does that mean for you?

With the mild winter temperatures, it is probable that we will see a higher insect and disease population that results in more damage to your lawn and landscape. Another consideration is earlier onset of weed growth.

To protect against that scenario, I recommend, no later than the end of April, that you add a pre-emergent herbicide to your beds and lawn.

Editor

The Cock Robin Ice Cream sign at 8861 Burlington Ave., so beloved that the Brookfield Village Board approved a measure in 2019 that might have preserved it in perpetuity, was taken down March 9 by its owner, who promised its fans it would live on.

Martin Lynch, who purchased the property in 2011, said the metal pole topped by metal boxes holding the signage posed a safety hazard.

Not only was the structure corroded, the sidewalk around its base had begun to crack and heave noticeably, a condition that has worsened over the years.

“Our main concern is the safety,” said Lynch, who purchased Irish Times Pub and Restaurant at 8869 Burlington Ave. in 2008 and subsequently acquired the rest of the commercial property to the east.

“If that came down on somebody’s car or family or somebody walking by …”

Andrew Harrington, the village’s code enforcement officer who stood alongside Lynch on the morning of March 9 as workers cut the sign down, agreed that the sign had become dangerous.

BOB UPHUES/Editor

Workers dismantle the Cock Robin sign in the 8800 block of Burlington Avenue on March 9.

A mild and early start to spring also means that our schedules here at McAdam fill faster. The early bird gets the worm, so if you are thinking about getting work scheduled, act sooner than too much later.

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

BOB UPHUES/Editor

Irish Times owner Martin Lynch, who purchased the former Cock Robin property in 2011, inspects the two iconic bird signs after they were removed from their rusting metal frame on March 9.

“Just basically over time, the wind [rocking the sign back and forth] causes an upheaval, plus the water and ice expansion and contraction, it just all adds to it,” Harrington said.

But fret not, Brookfield nostalgists, you can visit the local icon anytime you wish.

Shortly after a crew removed the sign, local construction contractor Mike Healy passed by and asked his fellow Irishman what he intended to do with the sign.

“He asked me what I was going to do with it, and I said I’d like to frame it somehow and hang it in the beer garden,” Lynch told the Landmark. “He said, ‘When?’ I said, ‘Now,’ and he said, Let’s do it!’ Unbelievable. He took the measurements and went straight to work at his shop.”

Later that evening one of the bird signs was securely displayed on a wall in the beer garden at Irish Times.

“Everyone can come and see the sign now,” Lynch said.

Lynch said when he bought the Cock Robin property in 2011, he at first thought he might be able to reopen the restaurant and resume

The Landmark, March 15, 2023

MARTIN LYNCH

One of the Cock Robin bird panels has already found a home on a wall in the Irish Times beer garden.

Local contractor Mike Healy built a frame the day the sign was taken down, allowing it to be displayed almost immediately. serving ice cream, steakburgers and milkshakes to Brookfielders.

However, it was not to be. “[The former owners] had just walked out one day. They left everything in the coolers and freezers,” Lynch said. “It was like walking into a horror movie with all the flies. I would have fired it up at the time, but it had the old electrical and everything, and the whole basement was flooded with water, and the roof, it was just dangerous, so we had to take that down, too, at the time.”

But, Lynch didn’t have the heart to take down the sign, which had become something of a local landmark.

In 2017, the village passed a law requiring the removal of “zombie signs” – signs still

BOB UPHUES/Editor

Workers remove the “Since 1931” sign from the horizontal box that originally displayed Cock Robin’s weekly specials and other messages for customers. That particular sign was installed in 2004, just two years before the Brookfield Cock Rob location closed for good.

advertising businesses that had long moved away or folded – and it looked as if the Cock Robin sign’s days were numbered.

With removal a very real prospect, Brookfield village trustees in 2019 decided to approve a carve-out in the sign code for what they termed “historic” signs and allowed for their preservation.

“It’s been a journey with it, trying to do the right thing, trying to see if we could preserve it, save it and then realizing we couldn’t,” Lynch said.

If it wasn’t possible to preserve it as-is, Lynch pivoted to preserving the signs by incorporating at least one of the bird signs into his existing setup at Irish Times. Lynch added that other sign elements could make their

way into future development of the property.

“Whatever we do we’ll try to incorporate them back into the building so they’ll still be here,” he said.

A more ambitious plan Lynch has considered includes constructing a mixed-use building east of Irish Times, with groundfloor commercial spaces and apartments above. He’s even kicked around the idea of turning the one-story storefront immediately east of Irish Times into a business reminiscent of the old Cock Robin ice cream parlor/grill.

“We even came up with a concept called Robin’s Nest that would tie in with it and be like burgers, ice cream, stuff like that,” Lynch said. “We’re trying to figure it out.

Pre-pandemic it would have been a lot easier to make a decision, but it’s just so uncertain now.”

More likely is a project to expand Irish Times’ outdoor beer garden to the east, adding a full-service bar, more bathrooms and protecting more of the outdoor space from the elements to extend its use through more of the year “We could expand it probably up to where the tent is, so we can eliminate the tent in the future,” Lynch said. “With the costs of building at the moment, it’s not viable to go with the full development, so we’re going to see if we can do something with the singlestory building and incorporate it all in together.”

It’s unclear just how long the sign of a tuxedoed bird sporting a top hat and with the words “Cock Robin” emblazoned on his red breast has stood sentinel over the property that once housed the long-demolished restaurant.

However, it probably dates to around 1960, after a former partner in the original Prince Castle chain of ice cream shops was forced to rename the locations he owned, including the one in Brookfield.

The bird image on the sign was conceived between 1958 and 1962, based on newspaper advertisements of that era. Whether the thick plastic panels fitted into the metal box atop the pole are that old isn’t known, but they could be.

Based on photographs of former Cock Robin locations – the one in Brookfield was the last to close its doors, in 2006 – the restaurants’ signage was standard, using a pole to support a horizontal box where weekly specials could be advertised and a box on top holding the iconic bird logo signs.

According to Brookfield historian Chris Stach, in a 2007 article reporting that the property had been placed on the market for sale, the “Since 1931” sign went up in late 2004.

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The Landmark, March 15, 2023

Teen mental health center opens in Brookfield NAMI and Pillars Community Health unveil The Loft at 8 Corners

By BOB UPHUES Editor

The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Metro Suburban and Pillars Community Health on March 13 opened the doors to The Loft at 8 Corners, a first-of-its-kind center dedicated to the holistic mental health of teenagers.

Over the past six months, NAMI and Pillars renovated the former yoga studio at 9045 Monroe Ave. in Brookfield into a welcoming space for high school students to access a host of mental health services, and where families can learn more about the range of strategies, tools and services available to them.

The Loft is open seven days a week, 365 days a year from 1 to 8 p.m. and is staffed with a team of mental health professionals. Teens and families can simply walk in or schedule times to visit. All services are free.

“This space is really an expansion, it’s a broadening of our continuum of services, everything from education to support to activities,” said Angela Curran, president and CEO of Pillars Community Health during a March 8 ribbon-cutting event to show off the center and thank a half dozen foundations, Proviso Township and Cook County Health for their financial support.

NAMI and Pillars Community Health also sought out teenagers to help them identify key elements, both visual and programmatic for The Loft – even getting input on its name.

Kimberly Knake, executive director of NAMI Metro Suburban, said they recruited students at Riverside-Brookfield High School and Proviso Township high schools to form a Teen Advisory Committee.

BOB UPHUES/Editor

Angela Curran and Kimberly Knake “They met over a few months led by [a consultant] to discuss their take on mental illness, the additional program offerings, renaming it from a working title of Teen Living Room to The Loft at 8 Corners, and working … on what they wanted the look and feel to look like,” Knake said.

Cook County awarded the initiative a $1 million grant, while additional funding came from the Community Memorial Foundation, Healthy Communities Foundation, Illinois Children’s Healthcare Foundation, Naffah Family Foundation, the VNA Foundation, Westlake Foundation

PHOTOS BY BOB UPHUES/Editor

Adrian Cardenas (above left) oversees day-to-day operations at The Loft, which offers a host of mental health services and seeks to provide a welcoming space that includes a room for yoga (above center), rooms for one-on-one and family counseling, a kitchen and classroom. Above right, Pillars Community Health CEO addresses a crowd of around 100 at The Loft’s ribbon cutting on March 8.

The Landmark, March 15, 2023 and the Proviso Township Mental Health Commission.

“Our work here speaks to not only who we are as a local community but what we believe in as leaders, collaborators, friends and neighbors: To respond to a local need, to create a sense of belonging and to empower our youth so that they can be healthy and well,” said Greg DiDomenico, president and CEO of the Community Memorial Foundation.

Teens visiting The Loft will, after staff obtains necessary consent, will receive a mental health screening to determine the appropriate level of support, from access to education resources, support groups and classes to family support services to one-onone support to crisis intervention.

The Loft includes rooms where private one-on-one counseling can take place, a larger room where families can meet privately with staff, a classroom, a living room-type area where teens can relax and a yoga studio.

Adrian Cardenas, who is Loft’s coordinator, oversees the day-to-day operation of the center, facilitates groups and assesses teens who may be experiencing a crisis to determine their level of care.

His team also includes three young adult

recovery support specialists who work directly with teens, a family support specialist, an education manager and program manager.

He said The Loft’s team “will be there the whole step of the way, walking [teens] through [recovery].”

“We want to walk along in that journey with our teens and not do everything for them,” Cardenas said. “We want them to have that autonomy in their own recovery. If we do everything for them, they won’t know how to do that once they walk out of these doors. If we’re able to give them that power of choice … that is our ultimate goal and that’s how the inter-professional team will do that together.”

An important part of The Loft’s offerings are skill-building groups to help teens work through issues affecting mental health, from being mindful and fostering healthier interpersonal relationships to controlling emotions, solving problems and reducing stress.

“There is no one right way to work with your mental health,” Curran said. “No journey is the same, so our goal is really to expand this continuum as much as we possibly could.”

For more information, visit the center’s website at loft8corners.org.

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BOB UPHUES/Editor

There are three small meeting rooms at The Loft where teens can speak privately, oneon-one with young adult staff trained in assessing mental health and recommending appropriate services.

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The Landmark, March 15, 2023

Zalewski to step down as Illinois Commerce Commission chair Husband, former state rep reportedly mulling job as lobbyist

By BOB SKOLNIK Contributing Reporter

Riverside resident Carrie Zalewski is stepping down from her position as chair of the Illinois Commerce Commission. She announced last week that she will leave the ICC on June 16, seven months before her five-year term expires on January 15, 2024.

She said she is leaving early because the ICC has a lot of cases coming up later in the year and she wanted her replacement to have enough time to prepare for them.

“To just pick up and leave in the middle of that would be very disruptive and unfair for a new commission to come in, that’s the idea,” Zalewski told the Landmark. “The timing just makes sense. I’ve been at the state for 17 years and I’m ready to move on.”

In a press release announcing her decision to step down, Gov. J.B. Pritzker praised Zalewski’s work at the Illinois Commerce

in the Illinois House before Commission. losing to Abdelnasser Rashid “Zalewski served the State in the Democratic primary of Illinois diligently during a last summer, told the Landperiod of challenging unprecmark that he will announce edented circumstances and clean energy transition, and his future plans shortly. He her stalwart leadership was told the Landmark that he is essential to the successes of considering lobbying. that period,” Pritzker said.

“As a family we’ve gone Pritzker will nominate forthrough what I would considmer Rockford Mayor Doug er, what I think an objective Scott to replace Zalewski. person would consider, a tuCARRIE ZALEWSKI Zalewski’s is married to formultuous nine months,” said mer state Rep. Mike Zalewski Mike Zalewski. “And I think and her departure from the ICC could be as we make long term decisions about our connected to her husband’s plan, accord- future, we’ve both come to the decision that ing to published reports, to become a lob- it’s time for an exciting new chapter.” byist.

Carrie Zalewski’s announcement came State law bars paid state board and com- just days before start of a ComEd bribery mission members from serving if their trial in which the name of her father-inspouse is a lobbyist, unless the lobbyist is law could be mentioned, although he is not also an elected official. charged with any crime.

Mike Zalewski, who served seven terms ComEd’s former CEO, its former chief

lobbyist, a lobbyist subcontractor and an outside lobbyist for ComEd who was a confidante of former Illinois Speaker of the House Michael Madigan are accused of bribing Madigan by giving Madigan’s allies and associates jobs and contracts.

One of the Madigan associates who allegedly benefited was former Chicago 23rd Ward Ald. Michael Zalewski. The federal indictment alleges that the defendants agreed to give the former alderman a nowork $5,000 a month consulting contract to curry favor with Madigan. The elder Zalewski was a close political ally of Madigan.

Carrie Zalewski told the Landmark that her decision to step down from the ICC had nothing to do with the ComEd trial.

Pritzker appointed Zalewski to the ICC in 2019 and quickly elevated her to lead it.

Before serving on the ICC, Zalewski was a member of the Illinois Pollution Control Board for nine years.

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It’s time to vote. Here’s what you need to know

A

the schools, have a vision for the library, are committed to ll democracy is local. better village services or holding taxes or growing equity.

And as we move toward the spring elections for Or all of the above. village, school, library leaders, the Riverside-BrookAs you read these pages of questions and answers from field Landmark is offering you this Election Guide. each of these candidates know that there is a That coverage comes in print today and, more lot on the line this year. expansively at RBLandmark.com.

Your vote truly matters.

This year we have profiled many candidates Do you plan to early vote? The details on in contested elections, and we’ve also sent how to do it are just below. detailed questionnaires to every candidate in And don’t miss the digital version of this a contested race. The answers to our questions Election Guide on our RBLandmark.com are presented here in this Election Guide, which website. The Q&As are there in longer versions. was designed by Javier Govea, our editorial Thanks to Stacy Coleman, our digital manager, design manager. for building out these sites.

Let’s start with the candidates.

SEE COMPLETE Finally, this expanded coverage is possible There is something brave and generous, only ELECTION GUIDE ONLINE because of a donation to our Growing Comoccasionally ego-driven, that leads a local permunity Media nonprofit from the Good Heart son to run for local office. Growing Community Media has been watching for 43 years and our observation Work Smart Foundation. It has allowed us not only to fund our election reporting and create this guide but also to is that with a dud once in a while, with people we have widely increase our circulation for this issue of Wednesday disagreed with on policy, that in our non-partisan elecJournal. tions almost all candidates run because they care about

Almost time for early voting Here’s how and when you can vote

For the April 4 Consolidated Election – school board, village boards, park and library boards -- early voting starts March 20 and continues through April 3.

Courtesy of the Cook County Clerk’s office we have all the early voting locations in our area and the hours when you can vote.

What do you need to vote early?

Voters do not need to provide an excuse or reason why they cannot vote on Election Day. Government-issued photo ID is not required but is helpful if there is a question about the voter’s registration, address or signature.

Providing an ID can also speed up the process because we have ID card readers at every check-in station.

You can also register to vote at all the early voting sites. However,

any voter who needs to register for the first time or file an address change must present two forms of ID, one of which shows the voter’s current address.

Voting equipment Early voting is conducted on touch screens that store every ballot style in the county, permitting any voter in suburban Cook to vote at any location. Your ballot will remain secret and securely stored.

Early voting records The names of all early voters are available to the public and are updated each day during Early Voting. Please call (312) 603-0900 for early voting information.

In-person voting only Voters who participate in early voting must vote in person.

We are mailing a paper this week to additional homes and apartments in North Riverside, where there is a contested municipal election this year. These are people who do not regularly receive the paper. We hope they will be motivated to vote, and, yes, we hope they will consider subscribing to our weekly print edition or become a donor on our digital side.

This election is in your hands. Educate yourselves on the issues and the candidates. And then seize the power of your vote.

Dan Haley EDITOR AND PUBLISHER Growing Community Media

Jessica Mackinnon ELECTION COORDINATOR Riverside-Brookfield Landmark

EARLY VOTING LOCATIONS (APRIL 4, 2023 CONSOLIDATED GENERAL ELECTION) The early voting locations listed here are for Suburban Cook County voters only.

If you live in the City of Chicago please visit chicagoelections.gov for their Early Voting locations.

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Why we no longer endorse candidates Since 2020 Growing Community Media has been a nonprofit news organization. Because of that change we operate under regulations set by the Internal Revenue Service. Among those IRS require-

ments is the rule that as a nonpartisan 501(c)3 nonprofit that we are no longer permitted to endorse specific candidates for office.

That ended our long-standing process of interviewing all local

candidates and offering endorsements. In lieu of that we have stepped up our information gathering and reporting on the candidates and are presenting that to voters in this Election Guide.

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NORTH RIVERSIDE VILLAGE BOARD (7 CANDIDATES FOR 3 OPEN SEATS) How will the pension burWe need all the revenue we can den of adding six firefightget, especially with the hiring of ers/paramedics over the next so many more employees. The three years be absorbed in revenue from non-residents is future budgets? essential. I believe the capping of The decision to remove the existing licenses to 10 hinders the private paramedics was the Village. Revenue streams like this popular decision, but it may not are important. Important to taxes have been the financially correct and fees that go to the Village. one made in the last 40 years.

Important for the business owners Six more firemen aren’t going JOSE DEL ANGEL that operate these establishments. to be hired, it will require 9-10 Placed in the proper location, it to make up for 6 contract paramedics. The would be a win/win. pension costs will be unsustainable and layoffs for recreation and public works are going Would you support a referendum asking to happen. Ways to generate more revenues for the Village to become a home rule must be found. community? Would you support seeking home rule status for the Village?

Would you support reinstalling red light We need home rule to create more necescameras, which produce more than $1 sary revenue. However, that is a question that million in revenue, at Harlem and Cermak should be proposed to the resident. Also, reonce the intersection is improved this sponsible officials need to be elected to overyear? If not, how do you believe North see it properly. Transparency is key for this Riverside can make up for that loss of board to succeed. revenue?

The village should do everything possible Would you support a referendum seekto keep red light cameras; the ing to impose a tax levy to fund revenue comes mostly from non police and/or fire pension obliresidents and pays pensions. gations? Would you support a The loss is devastating, and the pension levy referendum? elected officials should have, The tax levy referendum needs and could have gone to Springto be voted on up or down. The field to try and stop its removal. deficit is unsustainable. I believe we are near crisis mode and need Would you support the adto make decisions as such. The dition of a cannabis dispensa- SEE CANDIDATES’ COMPLETE elected officials need to kick it ry in the Village? If yes, where ANSWERS AND BIOS ONLINE into gear and find ways to plug should it be located? Are there the leak. any specific expenses that the Village should prioritize using cannabis How do you believe the Village should tax revenue? determine the best use for the former The Village should do everything in its Presbyterian church property at 24th power to have dispensaries. The revenue is Street and 8th Avenue? Should the Vilnecessary, and non-residents will be ones lage keep it? If so, for what purpose? If mostly using them if they are placed in the not, why not? right location. More revenue that comes from The property should be eventually be non-residents, the better--that fact keeps our made a recreation center for the residents taxes lower. when it can get the grants to construct it. In the mean time, it should be a temporary site In the absence of a cannabis dispensary, for recreation activities as it is now. would you support an expansion of video gambling parlors? How would you reThe candidate’s responses have been edited for print.

The full unedited responses can be found online at: spond to those who believe these parlors rblandmark.com/2023-election-guide should be limited to the existing 10?

How will the pension burMaking up for loss of den of adding six firefightrevenue is ALWAYS a multiers/paramedics over the next pronged approach.

The three years be absorbed in current Administration has future budgets? never properly approached Let’s not forget that it was the budgeting process. always the position of the VIP/ All they have ever done is United Party to continue with spend and mis-manage. All PSI [Paramedic Services of Ilbudgetary line items must linois]. They waged a five-year be researched and scrutiMARYBELLE war against the firefighters from nized. We should look for MANDEL 2014 through 2019. They lost at budget SAVINGS FIRST, beevery turn and cost the taxpayfore we automatically look ers an estimated million in attorney fees. for increased revenues.

During this same period, we were promoting bringing paramedic services in-house, How do you believe the Village should using the Silver Spanner program and sav- determine the best use for the former ing the citizens of North Riverside an esti- Presbyterian church property at 24th mated $100,000 per year.

Street and 8th Avenue? Should the VilThere appears to be no reason why these lage keep it? If so, for what purpose? If annual savings will not hold up; even after not, why not? the expense of employing an additional Once Again - THEY LIED (your VIP / UNITthree (not six) firefighters with their sal- ED PARTY administration). In 2020, while ary, benefits and pension costs. It is also the Village was languishing in debt, with a my understanding that the administration deplorable bond rating, and heading headbotched grant applications long toward bankruptcy, your that were available to help Administration spent $600,000 pay for new firefighters over of your money to purchase a three-year period. We must the abandoned church and look into these grants once demolish it. There was NO feaagain. If the program is propsibility study, NO plan and NO erly implemented, there will PUBLIC INPUT. Then they LIED be a cost savings to the Viland stated that they got a state lage. These savings must be grant to fund the project. Three documented and earmarked years later and they still can’t for very specific uses, and not SEE CANDIDATES’ COMPLETE substantiate that claim. Why? just absorbed into the general ANSWERS AND BIOS ONLINE Because they lied. fund where, as history tells us, If they had any competence they will be mismanaged by the current and they had $600,000 laying around; why administration. didn’t they pay down some of the pension debt? It’s three years later and we still have Would you support reinstalling red NO PLAN. I am open to citizen input and light cameras, which produce more professional analysis to determine if a realthan $1 million in revenue, at Harlem istic approach for public uses of the propand Cermak once the intersection is erty can be achieved. Otherwise, perhaps improved this year? If not, how do you it is time to try to recover the funds that we believe North Riverside can make up for lost from this lunacy. Have the property that loss of revenue? appraised and seek bids from developers If you follow the news; red-light cam- for a residential development that would eras remain controversial for a number of put the property back on the tax rolls. reasons; and continue to be both a blessing and a curse on all communities that The candidate’s responses have been edited for print. use them. Relying on this elusive revenue The full unedited responses can be found online at: rblandmark.com/2023-election-guide source is a mistake to begin with.

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NORTH RIVERSIDE VILLAGE BOARD (7 CANDIDATES FOR 3 OPEN SEATS) How will the pension burSome potential sources of den of adding six firefightrevenue, a cannabis dispensary ers/paramedics over the next or more video gaming parlors, three years be absorbed in require additional forethought future budgets? due to the sensitive nature of We must know where we such matters. Resident input stand to begin to move forward. would allow greater autonomy Successful businesses conduct to build the Village into a coheaudits to ensure operations are sive whole. The establishment running efficiently and to apof regular neighborhood meetpropriate funds for essential SANDRA GREICIUS ings would provide a forum for projects. This is the first step residents to address concerns for all financial undertakings. In the short and ideas prior to issues arising. As such, term, it is important to develop innovative establishments would be located in a comstrategies to prevent any additional tax mercial district, suggestions to improve burden on the residents from a reduction these areas would be constructive as well. in revenue from pension obligations or the loss of the red-light cameras. With such Would you support a referendum aska plan in place, any funds collected from ing for the Village to become a home red-light cameras, once approved, would rule community? Would you support be reserved to decrease the current debt. seeking home rule status for the VilFurther, in-house paramedic services will lage? provide timely cost-savings in the interim.

Home rule, I feel, suppresses the voice of the residents and provides the local govWould you support reinstalling red ernment with more laxity in making decilight cameras, which produce more than sions resulting in increased taxes and ap$1 million in revenue, at Harlem and proving referendums without voter input. I would not support a home rule Cermak once the intersection referendum. is improved this year? If not, how do you believe North How do you believe the VilRiverside can make up for lage should determine the that loss of revenue? best use for the former PresAs stated, developing a varibyterian church property at ety of methods to compensate 24th Street and 8th Avenue? for the loss of proceeds from Should the Village keep it? If red-light cameras, as well as so, for what purpose? If not, pension obligations, is key. Creating innovative strategies to SEE CANDIDATES’ COMPLETE why not?

The best use for the former form new streams of revenue, ANSWERS AND BIOS ONLINE Presbyterian church property, investigating current programs now the vacant lot at 24th for best use and viability, and researching grants, government programs, Street and 8th Avenue, is residential propand fundraisers would not only lessen our erty development. The sale of the property dependence on the red-light cameras, but would offset the expenses incurred, not an approval for reinstalling the red-light add to the current debt, and increase tax cameras would provide revenue to de- revenue. Through addressing this issue, as well as other concerns, with an innovative, crease the debt. business-oriented mindset, may we develWould you support the addition of op a strong Village for all. a cannabis dispensary in the Village?

If yes, where should it be located? Are there any specific expenses that the VilThe candidate’s responses have been edited for print.

The full unedited responses can be found online at: lage should prioritize using cannabis rblandmark.com/2023-election-guide tax revenue?

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NORTH RIVERSIDE VILLAGE BOARD (7 CANDIDATES FOR 3 OPEN SEATS) How will the pension Looking at the amount of burden of adding six fireviolations handed out by the fighters/paramedics over cameras at that intersection the next three years be abalone, you can clearly see sorbed in future budgets? that traffic control methods Since my tenure on the like this are essential for the village board began, I have safety of residents. Placement committed myself to making of a red light camera at this insure that the village pays it retersection will hopefully conquired contribution towards tinue to assist with deterring DEBORAH A. pension payments. With drivers from not stopping CZAJKA these new hires in place, I will / speeding through these work to ensure that the villights and hopefully avoid selage avoids taking pension holidays and rious accidents in the future. continues to fund the ongoing pension costs year over year. With the onboarding Do you believe that it is important to of these new hires, the cost will be mini- continue the major project of improvmal due to these employees just starting ing the Cermak Road water main west their careers with North Riverside. As we of First Avenue? If so, how can the Vilcontinue to keep funding the pensions lage fund this work, which has cost alevery single year at the required level, most $500,000 for each of its first three we should be able to keep up with our phases? pension payments, so there will not be as It is important for the village to conmuch a strain on our annual budget. tinue this project. A project of this undertaking is essential for creating the Would you support reinstalling red right amount of pressure needed on the light cameras, which produce more farthest section of town away from the than $1 million in revenue, stand pipe. We discussed as at Harlem and Cermak a board this project and we once the intersection is knew it would be a multiimproved this year? If not, year commitment. That is how do you believe North the reason why our curRiverside can make up for rent water rates are high. that loss of revenue?

The board discussed the Yes, I am personally in faincrease in water rates in vor of the red light cameras order to cover those capital being reinstalled at that inexpenditures. Our water rate tersection once the improve- SEE CANDIDATES’ COMPLETE has been set to take care of ments have been made. They ANSWERS AND BIOS ONLINE the operating deficit in that seem to be generating revefund. We have been operatnue because there is an influx of drivers ing this fund for 20 years and this is the who are frankly disobeying the law and first time we are operating in the black, continually avoiding stopping at these as opposed to the red. Not only have we lights. We don’t have the resources to po- replenished our deficit, we have actusition an officer at this intersection at all ally built up a surplus of funds to cover hours of the day. As much as people don’t unexpected projects. So, with that belike the concept of red light cameras, it’s ing said and with this project in mind, I been determined that the intersection feel we are able to handle the remaining of Harlem and Cermak is one of the most phases of this project. heavily trafficked intersections in the state of Illinois. This is why IDOT is committed to changing out the signals and reworkThe candidate’s responses have been edited for print. The full unedited responses can be found ing lane configurations in an attempt to online at: rblandmark.com/2023-election-guide make the intersection safer as a whole.

How will the pension burden of Would you support the adding six firefighters/paramedaddition of a cannabis disics over the next three years be abpensary in the Village? If sorbed in future budgets? yes, where should it be loAfter sitting through the last two cated? Are there any specific years of budget meetings, I’ve seen expenses that the Village how difficult it can be to make some of should prioritize using canthose hard decision. Figuring out ways nabis tax revenue? to limit our pension liability will be Yes, absolutely. Allowing a one our biggest challenges for North business that is regulated by Riverside. As a current trustee on the NICHOLAS TRICOCI the state, while generating Fire pension board for nearly 2 years, I some astronomical tax revcan understand the funding, contribution, and enue dollars for many communities, could be liability of both sides. One way to fund the pen- a great idea. Having the proper procedures sions could be through contract negotiations. and protocols in place is key. Creating an orMaking decisions during contract negotiations dinance that makes the most sense is the first that benefit the village and its fire fighters is. step. A dispensary would best be suited in our Also, continuing to explore what works best for business district to keep traffic at a minimum other neighboring communities is a good idea. and more visual to traffic. One of our neighborWe are not the only town dealing with this. As ing towns is estimating a sales tax revenue of hard as it will be, I believe the appropriate de- $250,000 per year from a cannabis dispensary. cisions can be made if all of the trustees bring If we are able to acquire a cannabis dispensary, ideas to the conversation.

I would like to see the revenue earmarked towards current and future pension obligations.

Would you support reinstalling red light Having a plan is always going to be the key to cameras, which produce more than $1 mil- our success. Knowing what we will do with the lion in revenue, at Harlem and Cermak once revenue is very important to keep chipping the intersection is improved this away at current liabilities. year? If not, how do you believe North Riverside can make up for In the absence of a canthat loss of revenue? nabis dispensary, would you Yes, I am a proponent of the redsupport an expansion of light cameras. There are a few reasons video gambling parlors? How why I believe they are important. would you respond to those Many residents may not know this who believe these parlors but in an emergency, those 24-hour should be limited to the existcameras serve as eyes for the police SEE CANDIDATES’ COMPLETE ing 10? department. They assist in traffic ac- ANSWERS AND BIOS ONLINE I support an expansion of vidcidents and can be used for investieo gaming parlors that are limgative purposes. Another important ited to our business district; rereason is that red-light cameras serve as reve- zoning our business district to keep additional nue generators. I understand that red light cam- parlors out of residential areas. Video gaming eras can be unpopular when we address them generated $476,605.48 for the Village of North as revenue generators, but they are. I’m sure Riverside for year 2022. The police chief of has many residents have been in a situation where mentioned numerous times that the Police they wish a police officer was around to catch Department does not get many, if any, calls reckless driving. The surveillance is available from these establishments. The crime is lower to watch online if a ticket is generated, which than some may think, and the Village is benseems straight forward. If you run the light, do efiting from the liquor license fees on top of not yield to traffic signs or almost run over a the monthly revenue they generate. pedestrian, you should expect a ticket. I think most people tend to slow down or are more obThe candidate’s responses have been edited for print.

The full unedited responses can be found online at: servant if a police officer is next to you or if they rblandmark.com/2023-election-guide notice the red-light camera.

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NORTH RIVERSIDE VILLAGE BOARD (7 CANDIDATES FOR 3 OPEN SEATS) How will the pension burprioritize using cannabis tax den of adding six firefighters/ revenue? paramedics over the next three I would support an adult years be absorbed in future cannabis dispensary. I think it budgets? should be located in an area With the addition of Firewith high traffic such as Cermak fighter/Paramedics this is more Road. The Village can benefit people contributing to the penthe most by people purchasing sion fund. Newer employees the cannabis. The additional are not paid top pay as are the income can be used for many ANTONIO employee’s salary is less than rethings within the Village. It can SANTUCCI tiring employees along with new be used to guarantee the great employees contributing to the services that the Village curpension fund will either offset or be a plus rently has and provide additional services to to the fund. Another big that the Village will keep the Village safe. save on overtime.

In the absence of a cannabis dispensary, Would you support reinstalling red would you support an expansion of video light cameras, which produce more than gambling parlors? How would you re$1 million in revenue, at Harlem and Cer- spond to those who believe these parlors mak once the intersection is improved should be limited to the existing 10? this year? If not, how do you believe I believe the amount we have in Village North Riverside can make up for that loss now is good. But I have an open mind to disof revenue? cuss this further. If it would greatly benefit I am in favor of the red light camera, not the village then I would agree. only for revenues but for the safety that comes with it. People who may think of goWould you support a referendum seeking through a red light or turn ing to impose a tax levy to on the red light will think twice. fund police and/or fire penThe red light camera will reduce sion obligations? Would you accidents and injury. support a pension levy referendum?

Do you believe that it is I would like to do more reimportant to continue the search on this matter. If the benmajor project of improving efit would be that the Village the Cermak Road water main can add more police and fire west of First Avenue? If so, SEE CANDIDATES’ COMPLETE personal that is always a plus. how can the Village fund this ANSWERS AND BIOS ONLINE work, which has cost almost How do you believe the $500,000 for each of its first Village should determine three phases? the best use for the former Presbyterian I would want to see a project that was church property at 24th Street and 8th Avstarted get completed. Seeing that this was enue? Should the Village keep it? If so, for a planned project that started over 6 years what purpose? If not, why not? ago I have to look further into the project I believe that the Village should sell to deplans. With large projects like this there is velopers so that houses can be built. If the sometimes state funding available. There parcels can be subdivided there is a good are also other funding options that may be chance that the sale would bring a profit to available. the Village. Also, once the houses are built, it will be additional tax revenue to the Village.

Would you support the addition of a cannabis dispensary in the Village? If yes, The candidate’s responses have been edited for print.

The full unedited responses can be found online at: where should it be located? Are there any rblandmark.com/2023-election-guide specific expenses that the Village should

How will the pension bursary. In a small town such as den of adding six firefightNorth Riverside, this is not ers/paramedics over the next warranted. We need to work three years be absorbed in on growing the community future budgets? with destinations that families Now that North Riverside want to go to. I think a dispenhas brought the paramedics sary cheapens our little town. I in-house, like so many other don’t want NR to be ‘that town.’ municipalities, it will be able to If it does prevail, the location save a lot of money on not paywill have to be chosen very ing the overtime to a third party JOSEPH MARUSKA carefully, somewhere away private company for the servicfrom schools and children! es that we all rely on. After a five-year battle Now from a government aspect, I underagainst the firefighters at a cost to taxpay- stand the argument NR needs money. If ers of around $1 million in legal fees, and and when it comes down to a vote, and if it lost, North Riverside will have its firefighters were to pass, the money would have to be and in-house paramedics. earmarked for pension payments or paying down the debt.

Would you support reinstalling red light cameras, which produce more than Would you support a referendum ask$1 million in revenue, at Harlem and Cer- ing for the Village to become a home mak once the intersection is improved rule community? Would you support this year? If not, how do you believe seeking home rule status for the Village?

North Riverside can make up for that Absolutely not! By allowing Home Rule loss of revenue? we give our governing body a blank check As a driver, I hate red-light cameras--who to mismanage. This governing body does doesn’t? Unfortunately, due to North Riv- not understand what it means to spend erside’s financial shortcomings, within your means. Home the red-light camera at the Rule would be enabling their Harlem/Cermak intersection spending problems. served a purpose. The revenue it generated helped pay the poHow do you believe the Villice/fire pensions. There is this lage should determine the misconception that red-light best use for the former Prescameras help make an intersecbyterian church property at tion safe--they do not. All they 24th Street and 8th Avenue? are good for is to be a cash regShould the Village keep it? If ister for the city or municipality SEE CANDIDATES’ COMPLETE so, for what purpose? If not, that installs them. As time goes ANSWERS AND BIOS ONLINE why not? by, that city or municipality This should not have been heavily relies on that revenue purchased by North Riverside. because that camera did not fix anything-- We did not have the money then, and we all it does is allow that city or municipal- sure need that money now. From a busiity spend more frivolously. In the end, the ness point of view, sell the property to a reason for why it was implemented gets developer and make sure the land is zoned drowned out by more debt. for residential single-family housing. North Riverside needs to recoup as much out-ofWould you support the addition of pocket expense as it can from this huge a cannabis dispensary in the Village? mistake.

If yes, where should it be located? Are there any specific expenses that the Village should prioritize using cannabis tax The candidate’s responses have been edited for print.

The full unedited responses can be found online at: revenue?

Personally, I am not in favor of a dispen- rblandmark.com/2023-election-guide

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RIVERSIDE-BROOKFIELD HIGH SCHOOL D208 (2 CANDIDATES FOR ONE 2-YEAR TERM ) Why are you running for the board of Riverside Brookfield High School? What motivates you and what experience and perspectives would you bring to the job? How would these be valuable as an elected official?

I have been a member of the Riverside Brookfield High School Board for approximately 9 years.

When there was a vacant position on the board in 2021, I volunteered and was appointed. I am running for a two-year position to continue my community volunteer work and to help look after our high school, which is one of the jewels of our community.

MICHAEL WELCH

finance committee. When I was first elected, the school was in a structural deficit; meaning we were spending more than the resources our community were providing to us. Over the years, I have helped steer the school’s finances in the correct direction.

During my time on the board, I believe we have had a balanced budget each year. I am running for the board to continue my oversight of behalf of our community and hope to continue having balanced budgets.

What do you believe are the biggest challenges facing District 208 and how should the As a school board member, school board address them?

SEE CANDIDATES’ COMPLETE how will your values inform ANSWERS AND BIOS ONLINE Each challenge that comes your approach to budgeting to the RBHS board must be adand fiscal planning? dressed. This is what the board Each year that I have been on the RBHS does. Providing the best education for our board, I have been a member of the advisory students should always been our goal.

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Why are you running school was sponsoring or the for the board of Riverside services they offer. In addition, Brookfield High School? ensuring that the information What motivates you and is readily available to Spanishwhat experience and perspeaking families in the area is spectives would you bring important too. The school has to the job? How would made some recent improvethese be valuable as an ments in this area but it should elected official? continue to take steps to mainI am running for a seat on tain that progress.

CAROLYN LACH the Board of Ed for RBHS beI also feel my experience as a cause I feel as the parent of college administrator provides a current student, I have an understand- me with some perspective on what high ing of the day-to-day activities within the school graduates need to be successful school. I also understand how difficult it once they leave the halls of RBHS. Whethcan be to motivate students at this point er they decide to attend post-secondary in their life to take advantage of all the op- education, enter the trades, or join the portunities available to them and want to workforce, I have practical experience in help RBHS bridge that gap. In addition, in working with 18 to 22-year-olds and helpmy career, I interpret federal regulations ing them navigate those first post-high and guidelines on a daily basis and that school steps. I look forward to finding experience is applicable at the school ways to work with RBHS faculty, adminboard level. As board members, we need istrators and staff to prepare students for to stay abreast of changes in state and lives of significance once they graduate. federal policies that affect schools and pivot to implement changes with miniAs a school board member, how will mal guidance and often a lack of funding. your values inform your approach to Finally, as a resident of North budgeting and fiscal planRiverside, I feel it is important ning? our village have a voice on the Fiscal responsibility is a board; I want to be sure that strong value of mine. From the students and families of my experience as a KomKomarek, the smallest feeder arek School Board Member, school into RB, have someone I learned first-hand how who can advocate on their important it is to utilize evbehalf. ery dollar in the most costeffective way possible. Many SEE CANDIDATES’ COMPLETE Do you believe it is neces- ANSWERS AND BIOS ONLINE people might not realize how sary for RBHS to do more to dependent our local schools better serve all students? are on property tax dollars If so, what areas need improvement? and that the timing of those bills directly Do you believe that RBHS focuses too affects schools. In addition, making cost much attention on one area? How can effective choices might not be the popuRBHS better prepare students for col- lar choice, but are necessary to maintain lege and/or career? the fiscal health of the school. As a board I believe RBHS provides many services member I will continue to make choices to its students, but there is always room that are cost-effective without giving up for improvement. One area that needs the quality education the community has improvement is with the community at come to expect from RBHS. large. If you have a student in the school, it is easier to stay informed of the happenings at the school. However, before my The candidate’s responses have been edited for print. The full unedited responses can be found own children attended RBHS, it was not online at: rblandmark.com/2023-election-guide easy to find out about events the high

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RIVERSIDE-BROOKFIELD HIGH SCHOOL D208 (5 CANDIDATES FOR FOUR 4-YEAR TERMS ) Why are you running for the better prepare students for board of Riverside Brookfield college and/or career?

High School? How would your We’ve made progress over experience and perspectives the last year as there appears to be valuable as an elected ofbe a substantial interest in caficial? reer and tech education (CTE) I am running for re-election courses. We need to remain to continue the progress made flexible and open-minded to in promoting opportunities for new trends and needs. This our students in the trades and week, we approved a new hire I would like to explore potential WILLIAM T. DURKIN with a great background to internships for our students. I expand CTE. Exposure to and also want to work on the continuation of educating our students on opportunities the school being fiscally responsible. within the trades has made great strides.

My motivation to run for re-election is We need to continue listening to the needs mainly based on witnessing firsthand the of the students. energy and engagement of the students We are making positive strides in exposat the Trades and Career Fair last year. Stu- ing our students to career opportunities. dents need to be aware of meaningful and There’s always more work that can be done, respected opportunities besides college. and we must remain flexible and openThese programs allow you to earn while you minded. We need to work on dual credit learn and are great opportunities. I want to opportunities. continue being a voice and advocate for An area that I would like to work on beour students interested in the trades. sides apprenticeships is looking for internMy background is in the private sector as ships for our students. Many RBHS alum, an insurance broker. For the past five years, families, and community members own I’ve served as a co-managing partner of a businesses and work in various industries. It 100+ year-old, mid-size insurwould be great to connect our ance brokerage. Every day is students with this group and filled with negotiations, comothers. It would be much work promise, and problem-solving to establish, but that shouldn’t for internal duties and for my be an obstacle in making an efclients. I believe these, and fort to build it. having a business mindset and background, bring value to the As a school board member, board. how will your values inform Being an entrepreneur and your approach to budgeting managing a business requires SEE CANDIDATES’ COMPLETE and fiscal planning? me to know a little about ev- ANSWERS AND BIOS ONLINE What’s best for the students erything. With my contacts and is the top priority while berelationships, I’ve introduced a ing fiscally responsible for the dozen or so apprentice programs to our ad- community members. min and counselors. The goal was to establish direct connections between RBHS and What do you believe are the biggest these programs. Linking them together has challenges facing District 208 and how been very rewarding, and I’d like to contin- should the school board address them? ue building something that can positively The increase in unfunded state mandates impact our student’s futures. now and in the future. We need to continue to be fiscally responsible and flexible.

Do you believe it is necessary for RBHS to do more to better serve all students?

If so, what areas need improvement? Do The candidate’s responses have been edited for print.

The full unedited responses can be found online at: you believe that RBHS focuses too much rblandmark.com/2023-election-guide attention on one area? How can RBHS

Why are you running come and they stay, which says for the board of Riverside a lot about our community, Brookfield High School? How our students, and our school. would your experience and Dr. Smetana and Ms. Lindquist perspectives be valuable as cast a broad net for new posian elected official? tions to attract a qualified and I am running for the School diverse staff. We recently hired Board because I believe this is a bilingual Spanish-speaking an area where I can contribute mathematics teacher. We also the most. I have worked in the strive to diversify our adminLAURA HRUSKA istration, where students may area of professional education, and I have worked with feel safe and inspired by the Industry. I currently substitute teach for leadership of the school. Our principle, the Elmhurst Consolidated School District Dr. Freytas, has been a tremendous addi205. I have greatly enjoyed my time in tion and his charisma inspires our Latino Elmhurst, they are a diverse and creative youth. We have diversified our deans, our district. They have 27 languages spoken student guidance counselors, and school in their schools, they have an entire grade- psychologist. We hired these individuals school devoted to bilingual education. because we believed they were the most I have opportunity to be in classrooms qualified for their positions and would be from Kindergarten through high school, the best fit for our students. and the opportunity to see different programs implemented such as block schedHow do you think the school has done uling. On the other side I have spent many regarding implementing initiatives years on the governance committees of that promote equity, as emphasized in our professional school board organiza- RBHS’ new mission statement? tion. The most driving factor for me is out Our mission statement is designed to youth, which are the future of be a lens we see everything our country. Education has through as we move forward. looked very similar for many As we review each policy, we decades, however, currently look to make sure there are not there are so many advances any hidden biases. As we apand new opportunities, stuprove student trips, the board dents around the world are is conscientious that there is excelling in science, technolequal access for all our stuogy, and other core subjects. dents and not only those from Every conference we attend SEE CANDIDATES’ COMPLETE wealthier homes. As we conas a Board, we are reminded ANSWERS AND BIOS ONLINE sider new programs or policies, that we are preparing our the district utilizes diverse comstudents for jobs that do not mittees. When we send out ineven exist yet. formation, we are ensuring that our Latino families also have access to information in Between 2006 and 2021, RBHS’ stu- Spanish. We rely on our students, staff and dent demographics changed signifi- community members to point out new arcantly. Do you believe that RBHS has eas. Our club, “Girls who Code,” was a solumade progress in recruiting teachers tion to a bias in the field of programming who reflect these changes and, if not, which is typically dominated by men. The how can it do more in that respect? women in this club have done well. StuI believe that RBHS should recruit the dent can propose any club. best teachers we can for any open position. My own children are bi-racial, their father and his family are from Mexico, and The candidate’s responses have been edited for print. The full unedited responses can be found they never felt isolated or left out of the online at: rblandmark.com/2023-election-guide RBHS community. Many of our teachers

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RIVERSIDE-BROOKFIELD HIGH SCHOOL D208 (5 CANDIDATES FOR FOUR 4-YEAR TERMS ) Do you believe it is necesgoing training and engagesary for RBHS to do more to ment in diversity, equity, and better serve all students? inclusion.”

If so, what areas need improvement? Do you believe As a school board memthat RBHS focuses too much ber, how will your values inattention on one area? How form your approach to budcan RBHS better prepare geting and fiscal planning?

With 20+ years of experistudents for college and/or ence in the public sector, I career?

DEANNA ZALAS understand the need to balAs a Board and as a commuance competing priorities usnity, we need to acknowledge that students begin with different resourc- ing limited resources. In my current term, I es and we must find ways to equitably have led the board’s efforts to negotiate a support them in and out of the classroom. fair and reasonable contract with our barDistrict 208 is not immune to the challeng- gained members and a fair and reasones inherent to public education, and bal- able contract with our superintendent. ancing demands that range from govern- Good government budgeting requires ment mandates to Advanced Placement a transparent process that respects both opportunities to extra-curricular support historic trends and anticipated changes to Special Education requirements to Arts while understanding the full array of fundprogramming to Social Emotional Learn- ing source. The current district budget reing needs - all within a constrained budget mains balanced and responsible while in- often results in some displeasure. A goal- vesting in staff and programs that directly oriented district can support continuous support student outcomes. improvement across all areas, What do you believe are and leveraging RBHS’ small the biggest challenges facsize, dedicated teachers, and ing District 208 and how parental engagement can should the school board adensure that, in the words of dress them? our mission statement, “gradWhen I ran for my first uates are well-equipped to term on this board, no one be responsible members of was predicting a world-wide a diverse and ever-changing pandemic.

As we navigated world.”

SEE CANDIDATES’ COMPLETE the pandemic period, there ANSWERS AND BIOS ONLINE were certainly disagreements How do you think the along the way but ultimately school has done regarding implementing initiatives that promote the strong core that is District 208 (parequity, as emphasized in RBHS’ new ents, teachers, administrators and community) allowed us to move forward and mission statement?

Addressing systemic racism requires serve the students. The Board of Educathe long-term focus and investment of tion must lead by example - listen to mulgovernment bodies, and District 208 has tiple perspectives, understand complex begun to make these important efforts. situations, and maintain a focus on the A top priority for the Board of Education educational outcome of District 208. I must be a continued partnership with believe I have the temperament and enthe school community to support not just gagement required to continue this valuthe 2021 mission statement but also to able work regardless of the future chaladvance an annual, detailed goal setting lenges we may face. process. Through the Board of Education’s leadership, District 208 has begun The candidate’s responses have been edited for print. The full unedited responses can be found to meet the action steps in support of the online at: rblandmark.com/2023-election-guide 2022-23 goals in an effort to “continue on-

more technology at a student’s Do you believe it is necessary for fingertips from a young age, there RBHS to do more to better serve are some drawbacks that are beall students? If so, what areas need coming increasingly prevalent that improvement? Do you believe that we need to be aware of. Some of RBHS focuses too much attention these things are being addressed on one area? How can RBHS better already in the schools but there prepare students for college and/ are also emerging trends such as or career? the impact of the Covid years that There’s always an opportunity for need to be accounted for. schools such as Riverside-Brookfield A key resource already in place to do more for students. The ques- KENYON DUNER is a curriculum with social emotion is how best to achieve that with the time limitations in school and after school tional learning. Increased time spent online clubs, staff work load, and budget. With the sometimes leads to feelings of isolation for increased attention paid to student loan debt kids, a lack of communication skills for directly there has been helpful discussions about developing relationships, decreased emotional schools expanding the vocational pathways development, and a lack of empathy that maniavailable to students as well as a focus on com- fests itself in bullying behaviors. Brook Park’s munity college options. I think RB has been hiring of a full time SEL teacher was a good step proactive in acknowledging these tracks for stu- in addressing these challenges to students.

A recent issue of concern in students and dents through classes.

The dual enrollment programs available adults is media and information literacy. While through Triton College to RB students is a great it’s very easy to find news and opinions about opportunity to get a head start. The variety of topics, it’s becoming harder to verify the credprograms available are strong, but hopefully ibility of many of these sources. Having a stucan be expanded. A strong Applied Arts Pro- dent attending a school district that currently gram can help with opening up vocational op- doesn’t have a full-time degreed librarian in either the elementary school or portunities for students as well. RB’s the middle school, it does a disTelevision Arts Program and Autoservice for students for many reamotive sequence are assets to the sons, including a lack of quality school. instruction in information literacy, RB has a robust dual credit proeffective research skills, and ungram through Advanced Placement derstanding formats and sources. classes that offer the basics like EngThey then start high school with lish and Math as well as less tradithese deficiencies and need to tional options such as studio art and music theory. The opportunity for SEE CANDIDATES’ COMPLETE catch up. While RBHS used to independent study offered by RB is ANSWERS AND BIOS ONLINE have two full-time librarians, they currently have one, leaving less also a valuable chance for a student opportunities for students to masto receive credit for curriculum such as foreign languages not offered by the district. ter those abilities before graduation.

There are remedies for all these issues facing Summer internship opportunities through RB also give students a chance to receive high education and thankfully many of them are alschool credit in non-traditional ways. The addi- ready in place. The question for the board is are tional requirement of an interview to be accept- they enough to overcome the challenges, and if not, is it best to tweak what is in place (more ed into the program is a valuable experience.

SEL instruction, tutoring, resources for impleWhat do you believe are the biggest chal- menting Move to Learn and other strategies, lenges facing District 208 and how should etc.) or starting from scratch. the school board address them?

One of the biggest challenges facing schools going forward is the impact of students growThe candidate’s responses have been edited for print.

The full unedited responses can be found online at: ing up with increased access to technology. rblandmark.com/2023-election-guide While there are certainly benefits to having

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RB HIGH SCHOOL D208 (5 CANDIDATES FOR FOUR 4-YEAR TERMS ) Why are you running for the students to get their feedback board of Riverside Brookfield on services RBHS can provide High School? How would your to better prepare our students experience and perspectives for college and/or career opbe valuable as an elected ofportunities. With busy school ficial? schedules and after-school A strong belief in commuactivities, it can be challengnity involvement and my family ing for students to think about are two reasons I am running what their future looks like post for District 208 School Board.

RBHS graduation. ImplementPublic service and community NICHOLAS NOVAK ing programs that give all stuinvolvement are values of mine dents more exposure to career that are enriched in my everyday life. I paths vs. college experiences should be have worked for the Wheaton Park District explored. for over 20 years. During this time, I have been involved in the planning, building, How do you think the school has done and maintaining of several parks and fa- regarding implementing initiatives that cilities. Budgeting and hiring full-time promote equity, as emphasized in RBHS’ staff are other essential functions of my job new mission statement? that correlate with the duties of a school I believe Riverside Brookfield High School board member. My wife, Jennifer Novak, has shown that equity and diversity are imhas been an educator for 19 years with For- portant core values. As an elected school est Park School District 91. We have three board member, I would be dedicated to crechildren--Nicholas Novak Jr. (20), Matthew ating a learning environment where all stuNovak (18) and Katie Novak (12). Our fam- dents are valued and treated with respect. ily moved to North Riverside in 2015. RBHS Creating and implementing programs was a big reason we moved to North Riv- to help diverse students succeed in the erside. Nic graduated RBHS in classroom is a way to improve 2021 and is a sophomore at the equity. Treat every student reUniversity of Illinois Urbanaspectfully and value their conChampaign. Matt graduated tribution to the school.

RBHS in 2022 and is a freshman at the University of Dayton. My As a school board member, daughter Katie is in 7th grade at how will your values inform Hauser Middle School. Katie your approach to budgeting will be attending RBHS in the and fiscal planning?

Fall of 2024. I am vested in this Any member of an elected community and want to make a SEE CANDIDATES’ COMPLETE school board must play a role positive impact for all students. ANSWERS AND BIOS ONLINE in the school’s budget. When If elected, I believe my 20 years using public tax dollars, we of public service and dedication to com- must make responsible decisions and apmunity involvement would be an asset to ply the best business practices to ensure we RBHS’ Board of Education. are accountable to all students and taxpayers. The best way to be fiscally responsible Do you believe it is necessary for RBHS is through transparency. Open and honest to do more to better serve all students? communication between all levels of leadIf so, what areas need improvement? Do ership is how responsible school budgets you believe that RBHS focuses too much are formed. attention on one area? How can RBHS better prepare students for college and/ or career?

The candidate’s responses have been edited for RBHS does a great job of providing serprint. The full unedited responses can be found online at: vices to all students. If elected, I would like rblandmark.com/2023-election-guide to hear from teachers, administrators, and

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LYONS TOWNSHIP HIGH SCHOOL D204 (7 CANDIDATES FOR 3 OPEN SEATS) started to achieve equitable Why are you running for the outcomes for students and board of Lyons Township High how can it do better?

School? How would your exThis is a position that I was perience and perspectives be instrumental in helping to crevaluable as an elected official? ate and I am passionate about I am the current president the importance of this role. Dr. of the LTHS District 204 School Rowe has been a valuable adBoard and over the last four dition to the LTHS team. In her years, we’ve accomplished role, she is responsible for asso much. I’m excited about KARI DILLON sessing and addressing dispariwhat’s ahead with the recent ties and barriers that prevent adoption of our Strategic Plan, an LTHS first. There are so many reasons marginalized groups from achieving their why I’m running again, but at the core: full potential. The role seeks to ensure historically underserved groups will get the ■ I firmly believe in public education. Not supports they need to have the same oponly do I believe in it, but I am a champion portunities as student groups who are not for it. underserved.

■ I support and admire our teachers and With this role, we’ve implemented profesadministrators. LTHS has an impressive sional training and begun evaluating our reputation for retaining highly qualified processes, procedures and policies. We have teachers and administrators who care a lot more work to do, but I am committed deeply about our students. to making LTHS a welcoming space for all ■ I love our community and I believe to feel as though they belong. It is with that the high school is the heart of focus, that we can affect true it. This is the last stop on our learning. children’s education journey As a board member, I will before they launch careers or continue to support these inigo on to higher education. tiatives and look forward to evaluating our progress along I have served on the LTHS the way.

District 204 board for the last four years, helped navigate The District 204 Board of through a pandemic and hired Education is planning to sell a new superintendent. I know SEE CANDIDATES’ COMPLETE 70 acres of land it owns in it takes patience, dedication ANSWERS AND BIOS ONLINE Willow Springs, possibly beand collaboration to work with fore the next school board is a team of seven. Together, we seated. What is your view on effectively implemented a 1:1 laptop dis- whether or not the land should be sold? tribution program; developed the first dis- If you support the sale, what do you betrict equity statement; established the Di- lieve is the best use of proceeds? rector of Student Services and Director of It is the school board’s fiduciary responsiEquity & Belonging roles; enabled the first bility to the taxpayers to make decisions on live-streamed board meetings, upgraded behalf of the district that will benefit all stu64 classrooms with air conditioning and dents at the least expense to all taxpayers. recently completed a community-engaged The proceeds from a potential sale could facilities study to identify future projects/ dramatically improve the infrastructure of needs to improve our aging campuses. our campuses and would contribute to fulfilling strategic Goal 5.

For the 2021-2022 school year, LTHS hired a director of equity and belonging and launched initiatives to address The candidate’s responses have been edited for print.

The full unedited responses can be found online at: equity. What, in your view, is the value rblandmark.com/2023-election-guide of pursuing these initiatives? Has LTHS

For the 2021-2022 school Like students across Illinois, year, LTHS hired a director LTHS students are still recovof equity and belonging and ering from the devastating launched initiatives to adimpact of the pandemic. But dress equity. What, in your we continue to make progress view, is the value of pursuing in key areas. We are working these initiatives? Has LTHS hard to close the achievement/ started to achieve equitable opportunity gap, in part by imoutcomes for students and proving LTHS’s EL program. Adhow can it do better? ditionally, a co-taught model JILL BEDA Dr. Rowe, in her position, has been implemented which DANIELS pushes us forward to bring prois amazing for so many stufessional learning for the staff dents. We are justifiably proud and oversees LTHS’s student and equity of LTHS’s ability to provide so many different committee and helps guide the administra- opportunities through its many clubs and tion and board in moving forward. This po- athletic programs. While we are happy that sition allows us to stay current with things so many of our students progress to college we should do to include all. It brings an to further their education, we recognize innovative approach to creating a school that this is not the best path for everyone. where all students belong.

We are equally proud of our ability to preLTHS’s diversity, equity and inclusion pare students for vocational training. There initiatives are important because the data are so many opportunities for all students. shows that marginalized students are significantly behind. This is the The District 204 Board of reason why LTHS lags behind Education is planning to sell its peer districts, like Hinsdale 70 acres of land it owns in Central. We can close that gap Willow Springs, possibly beby giving those students the refore the next school board sources they need to thrive. is seated. What is your view on whether or not the land During the past year or so, should be sold? If you supthere has been much discusport the sale, what do you sion about modifications to SEE CANDIDATES’ COMPLETE believe is the best use of LTHS’ grading system. What ANSWERS AND BIOS ONLINE proceeds? are your views on the change/ A potential sale can bring tweaks? Do you believe that valuable resources to our disthere is anything else that needs to be trict and community. As a board, we are done and, if so, what? driven by our strategic plan which was imThere has been a robust dialog on this plemented with the vision of all stakeholdtopic among the Board, Administration and ers (community, teachers, students and adLT community. As a result, LT has listened ministration). A sale for this property would and adapted its policies. This topic requires allow LTHS to make key investments in our continuous evaluation and a spirit of flex- facilities, which is part of Goal Five of our ibility as we evaluate what’s working and Strategic Plan. Such improvements will benefit students in many significant ways, givwhat isn’t with input from all stakeholders. ing them opportunities and resources which There has been some question about our current facilities do not offer -- the range whether or not LTHS is maintaining of possibilities is exciting for all. Using our high academic standards and prepar- current resources to achieve this without a ing students adequately for college and referendum is impactful for all in our district. careers. Can you provide examples in which the school may be lacking or in The candidate’s responses have been edited for print. which it excels in delivering a high-qual- The full unedited responses can be found online at: rblandmark.com/2023-election-guide ity education?

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LYONS TOWNSHIP HIGH SCHOOL D204 (7 CANDIDATES FOR 3 OPEN SEATS) During the past year or so, was looking for the most value, there has been much discusknowing the village will ultision about modifications to mately need to accept the proLTHS’ grading system. What posal. This is an outsider’s point you are your views on these of view. With any major decichanges/tweaks? Do you besion, thousands of smaller decilieve anything else needs to sions must be made. I cannot be done? begin to know all the questions I was very pleased that the that were asked, what variables changes that were made. While were considered, and the results TIM ALBORES of the thousands of smaller decithis philosophy of “not yet,” meaning we don’t move on sions that were made to come to the next lesson until everyone under- to the point they are now. However, I do stands the material, is good in philosophy, question how much transparency and comit did not work. Homework has value. It is munication there was with the community. through the required practice that learn- I do appreciate the communication that was ing occurs. Once value was placed back on shared on January 26, however, the commuhomework, I’ve seen firsthand how learn- nity made it clear that they were not aware ing became stronger. The newest debate is of the direction the district was heading. on retaking assessments. While I do think Whether the district felt it was open in their students should have an opportunity to communication or not, it doesn’t matter if retake an exam, there must be the community feels disenfranrequirements put in place to chised. Currently, I am not a fan take them. You must have skin of selling this property to indusin the game. This means before try, however taking a definitive you are allowed to retake an side without knowing all the assessment, all of your homeinformation, I believe, is reckless work must be turned in and and irresponsible. you should either complete another study guide so teachers What do you believe are know you are prepared or meet SEE CANDIDATES’ COMPLETE the biggest challenges facing with your teacher to ensure you ANSWERS AND BIOS ONLINE District 204 and how should are vested in the process. While the school board address some may say there aren’t rethem? dos in life, we have all been given second Academic Rigor–We need to motivate chances when we make mistakes. But we kids to come to school and attend class need to earn them. Failing and moving on on time. As students get older at LTHS, we isn’t helping our test scores, or, most impor- see higher chronic truancy rates. Students tantly, our students. who feel safe, welcome, and wanted in any environment do better. This is no different The District 204 Board of Education is than us as adults. If we work in a supportive planning to sell 70 acres of land it owns environment, we perform better. I believe in Willow Springs, possibly before the this is already occurring at LTHS, however, it next school board is seated. What is your must always remain a focus for our school. view on whether or not the land should Similarly, we must continue to maintain the be sold? If you support the sale, what do academic rigor of our students to ensure you believe is the best use of proceeds? they are prepared for high-stakes tests. This I understand that the board is looking to requires scheduled curriculum reviews and generate much-needed revenue to sup- revisions to ensure our curriculum aligns port infrastructure for our school without with these assessments. having to try to pass a referendum. However, ultimately, it is up to the Village of WilThe candidate’s responses have been edited for print.

The full unedited responses can be found online at: low Springs to change the zoning to allow rblandmark.com/2023-election-guide the purchase. I believe the current board

During the past year or so, owns in Willow Springs, posthere has been much discussibly before the next school sion about modifications to board is seated. What is your LTHS’ grading system. What view on whether or not the you are your views on these land should be sold? If you changes/tweaks? Do you besupport the sale, what do lieve anything else needs to you believe is the best use of be done? proceeds?

While I have been going If I was a sitting board memdoor-to-door in every one of ber right now, I would vote JUSTIN CLARK no to the selling of the land. I our communities, this issue has come up the most—eswould immediately work with pecially regarding the homework. What school officials and other board members for sure needs to be done is an evaluation to create a process to gather stakeholdof the grading policy through the lens of ers together from all of our communidifferent data points, including but not ties to discuss the sale, understand their limited to standardized test data post the concerns, work towards a resolution, and policy change, homework completion move to sell the land based on the outdata post the policy change, and stake- come of the conversations. Once the sale holder qualitative data post the change of the land is finalized, continue updates (MOSTLY graduated students and how it and meetings on how the sale of the land has affected them post high school). If all is contributing to the needed upgrades to of these suggest that the policy change LTHS. was detrimental to LTHS students’ academic achieveWhat do you believe are the ment, it should be changed, biggest challenges facing Disimmediately. trict 204 and how should the school board address them?

■ Grading Policy–especially There has been some regarding homework: Comquestion about whether munity members believe or not LTHS is maintaining that LTHS is lowering the bar high academic standards and preparing students SEE CANDIDATES’ COMPLETE for both academic rigor and adequately for college and ANSWERS AND BIOS ONLINE teaching students how to hold themselves accountable. As a careers. Can you provide school board member, I would examples in which the school may be lacking or in which it ex- ask to see data (both quantitative and cels in delivering a high-quality educa- qualitative) on its effectiveness and move forward on making changes based on the tion?

The school is lacking in providing data examination of the data.

■ LTHS Facilities: Needing an upgrade that shows if students are growing over their four years as a student at LTHS and of facilities–specifically air conditioning prepared to thrive post-high school. in the north campus and upgrades to There are “traditional” ways to examine classrooms. As a board member, I would student growth (e.g. growth through the ask for a group of school stakeholders to SAT Suite of Assessments) and novel ways prioritize facility upgrades and then look (student preparedness based on first-year, for both short term and long-term budpost-high school surveys/focus groups). geting sources—which can include the LTHS offers a wide range of AP (Advanced funds raised by the selling of the Willow Placement) and Dual Credit courses, Springs land. which is very beneficial for our students.

The District 204 Board of Education is planning to sell 70 acres of land it

The candidate’s responses have been edited for print.

The full unedited responses can be found online at:

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LYONS TOWNSHIP HIGH SCHOOL D204 (7 CANDIDATES FOR 3 OPEN SEATS) Why are you running for the that every student has a safe board of Lyons Township High learning environment that is School? How would your exintimidation free. The adminperience and perspectives be istration needs to ensure that valuable as an elected official? policies are in place and enforce My desire to give back is part policies that help deliver a safe, of my DNA. I believe the LTHS discrimination free and bullying Strategic Plan is sound and free equitable environment for thought my previous school every student and staff memboard experience might be a ber.

DAVID HERNDON good fit for me to lend a hand.

The true motivator came What do you think are the about during college visits with my young- biggest challenges facing District 204 est daughter in 2021. One admissions coun- and how should the school board adselor said to us, “it’s statistically impossible dress them? for that many Lyons Township High School Earning the trust of the community back. students to have a 4.0 or above GPA. We From Covid back to school missteps, violaknow about the school’s retake policies on tions of the open meetings act, attempts to tests and homework not counting, its hurt- silence constituents and, lastly, the many ing kids coming from that school.” failures and tone-deaf responses to the This was totally a different take on LTHS Willow Springs community has made this than what I had heard during college vis- difficult to repair. The board needs to imits in 2017 with my eldest daughter. When prove their lines of communication with touring colleges that year, whenever we the community. If elected, I will ask for and brought up LTHS, admissions counselors publish my LTHS email address so the comsaid she would be well prepared and that munity can reach out to a board member. I “Lyons Township High School was the will encourage other board members to do equivalent of a college prep the same. I will ask the board to school.” go on listening tours and town Continued lack of communihalls in our feeder communication with their constituents ties to help improve commuover the years, lately with the nication. Finally, I will ask the Willow Springs property issues, administration to foster and has shown what can happen improve relationships with vilwith an inexperienced board lage leadership from the muand superintendent. nicipalities that feed into LTHS. Watching these things, I knew I believe the board needs SEE CANDIDATES’ COMPLETE I wanted and could do some- ANSWERS AND BIOS ONLINE three new members to help thing to help. foster in an improved environment of trust. I believe my For the 2021-22 school year, LTHS hired 12 years of experience as a board member a director of equity and belonging and would go a long way to helping repair the launched initiatives to address equity. trust barrier that currently exists. Even if What, in your view, is the value of pursu- you are doing everything right, if the coming diversity, equity and inclusion initia- munity does not trust you, it is very difficult tives? to govern. If we can rebuild the trust in the I believe that all children and staff have community, providing the tools to improve the right to be treated equally with respect, student performance should also be easier dignity, and kindness. As a Board member, to achieve.

I would not tolerate any behavior that led to any discrimination, bullying or any other inappropriate behavior directed at anyone The candidate’s responses have been edited for print. due to their race, sex or sexual orientation The full unedited responses can be found online at: and insist that the administration ensure rblandmark.com/2023-election-guide

Why are you running for the shocked at the amount of homeboard of Lyons Township High work, the penalties they faced School? How would your exfor non-attendance, and that perience and perspectives be test taking had a major impact valuable as an elected official? on their grades. The ownership I am running for the Board is on the students at the college because I am concerned about level – they are not prepared for the dip in academic proficiency this. I have also talked to stuand believe there is need for dents who never did/had homeimprovement on providing safe work, attended class less than environments for all students. TIMOTHY VLCEK 50% of the time and still graduMentoring for the school’s Inated. How can this be? cubator program has given me a hands-on opportunity to observe students in their The District 204 Board of Education is environment. I believe this experience, planning to sell 70 acres of land it owns in combined with my background in business Willow Springs, possibly before the next ownership and executive management, pro- school board is seated. What is your view vides me with the skillset needed to solve on whether or not the land should be problems and help create solutions to our sold? If you support the sale, what do you current challenges. believe is the best use of proceeds?

There’s been zero transparency on the sale For the 2021-22 school year, LTHS hired of property until last November – a total disa director of equity and belonging and regard for the residents of Willow Springs. launched initiatives to address equity. The property is already zoned residential, What, in your view, is the value of pursu- light retail and senior living, but the only ing diversity, equity and inclusion initia- bids received were for industrial developtives? ment--this I oppose. I feel the land should be Every student should receive sold maintaining the integrity an equitable education. People of the community; especially with special academic and with a grade school located so learning needs should have the close to it. I would support sellresources they need to succeed. ing to developers who would not have a negative effect on There has been some queshomeowners and/or quality of tion about whether or not life. This timeline has made peoLTHS is maintaining high acaple question trust for the board. demic standards and preparClosed door meetings promote ing students adequately for SEE CANDIDATES’ COMPLETE the lack of transparency. college and careers. Can you ANSWERS AND BIOS ONLINE What do you think are the provide examples in which biggest challenges facing Disthe school may be lacking trict 204 and how should the or in which it excels in delivering a high- school board address them? quality education?

I believe academics and safety are the I do believe there is a drop in performance biggest challenges. Kids need to feel safe levels and we are missing the mark in post- at school, safe from cyber bullying, social graduate preparedness. We have a reported pressure and physical threats. They need to 95% graduation rate and a 28% chronic be able to feel they can speak and act freely absenteeism rating – how can that be? It is without retribution from other students and also reported that 20% of students who go staff, and they need to be held accountable to community college have to take remedial for academics and attendance. courses.

I have personally spoken to students The candidate’s responses have been edited for print. that graduated last year and they said they The full unedited responses can be found online at: weren’t prepared for college; they were rblandmark.com/2023-election-guide

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LT HIGH SCHOOL D204 (7 CANDIDATES FOR 3 OPEN SEATS) Why are you running for the and, if so, what? board of Lyons Township High LTHS needs to tighten the reSchool? How would your expequirement for homework, testing rience and perspectives be valuand attendance. Multiple test reable as an elected official? takes, late homework acceptance I am running because I feel and lax attendance requirements that the school has strayed from are unacceptable. So, yes- it needs its fundamental responsibility of to change. Back to basics. providing a safe, inclusive, and challenging learning environment The District 204 Board of FRANK EVANS Education is planning to sell 70 for students- and that I can help guide the school back to those acres of land it owns in Willow basic principles.

Springs, possibly before the next school I have been self-employed my entire adult board is seated. What is your view on life. First as a floor trader at the Chicago Mer- whether or not the land should be sold? If cantile Exchange, then as a financial advi- you support the sale, what do you believe sor since 2002. I understand budgeting and is the best use of proceeds? finance along with the responsibilities of a LTHS owns the land, and it is their right to business owner--such as meeting payroll and sell. However, I DO NOT support the sale of the operating expenses. A businessowner’s per- land to an industrial developer. The land is not spective would help the Board become better zoned for commercial property, it would decistewards of taxpayer funds. mate the property values of the surrounding community and negatively affect the health of For the 2021-2022 school year, LTHS students at Pleasantdale Elementary. Furtherhired a director of equity and belonging more, the lack of transparency by the board and launched initiatives to address equity. in the decision to sell is alarming. Such an imWhat, in your view, is the value of pursu- pactful decision should have had significant ing these initiatives? Has LTHS started to involvement of the residents and surrounding achieve equitable outcomes for students communities. I feel strongly that a decision and how can it do better? should WAIT until after the new I feel that every student regardboard is seated and community less of race or socio-economic engaged properly. status should have support and I support the sale only under access to every resource available my previously stated conditions. to help them learn and succeed.

If those conditions are met, only Has this not always been the case then will a discussion of which inat LTHS? frastructure or investment needs I don’t know if LTHS has to support LTHS is appropriate. achieved “equitable” outcomes. SEE CANDIDATES’ COMPLETE What I do know, though, is that ANSWERS AND BIOS ONLINE What do you think are the there have been several high-probiggest challenges facing Disfile incidents/fights at LTHS- retrict 204 and how should the ported in the media- that have resulted in sig- school board address them? nificant monetary payouts to those affected.

Guiding the school back to pre-pandemic I would advocate for an analysis of what has levels of excellence, allowing transparency changed in the culture of LTHS to allow such and developing community engagement. incidents to become commonplace, and find We need to restore our school rating to a 10, a solution to stop this unacceptable behavior. provide a safe learning environment for all students and become accountable for all social, During the past year or so, there has been fiscal and educational directives. much discussion about modifications to LTHS’ grading system. What are your views The candidate’s responses have been edited for print.

The full unedited responses can be found online at: on the change/tweaks? Do you believe that rblandmark.com/2023-election-guide there is anything else that needs to be done

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LAGRANGE-BROOKFIELD D102 (6 CANDIDATES FOR 4 OPEN SEATS) In recent years, District 102 has begun its focus on achievhas made equity initiatives an ing equitable outcomes for important part of its strategic students. I further believe that plan. What, in your view, is we, the board, should continthe value of these initiatives? ue to inquire of the district’s Has the district started to superintendent and district achieve equitable outcomes and building administrators: for students and how can it What are our students learndo better? ing? How do we know that When I think about the value have learned?, and What are BESSIE BOYD of pursuing diversity, equity we doing when they are not and inclusion initiatives, I think getting it? of my beginnings with the Committee Following is an Equity Policy Goal - Stufor Equity and Minority Achievement dent Development Goal: We commit to (CEMA) in 2016. I felt then and continue closing existing achievement gaps by deto feel now, “schools should ensure that veloping instructional models based on all students have equitable opportunities student interests and needs. In order to to learn.” The following statement comes achieve this goal, we commit to maintainfrom the district’s Equity Policy: ing high expectations for student achieve“The District strives to ensure all stu- ment and quality instruction that are dents, regardless of racial identity or skin clearly conveyed to students and families color, receive a diverse, relevant, rigorous and are free of discrimination. Click for disand integrated curriculum based on rec- trict’s equity policy: https://www.dist102. ognized standards that provide the skills k12.il.us/page/equity necessary to thrive in elementary school, It is my belief that as the district continsecondary school, and beyond.” ues this focus, it will become better. https://www.dist102.k12.il.us/page/equity In recent years, District 102 impleAs the district continues to strive toward mented a standard-based grading sysimproving outcomes, we should also cel- tem. What you are your views of the change? ebrate what has been accomThe goal for making this plished. The district: ■ is actively working to shift in the district was to help diversify the administration, students, parents and staff teaching and support staff as know what the learning outidentified in the CEMA. comes are for each course or grade level in order for the Dis■ seeks to become more trict to become better aligned efficient and effective when with instructional practices monitoring how decisions imand expectations across grade pact groups of students, based SEE CANDIDATES’ COMPLETE on data results.

ANSWERS AND BIOS ONLINE levels. Using teacher developed common assessments ■ has developed a Student and prioritizing what learning Climate survey that provides is essential for students, teachers gain a more explicit student voice.

■ has created intentional structure to deeper understand of where students are in their learning. Following is an article infuse diversity across grades. based on a teacher’s experience in switch■ has used grant funds to provide explicit ing to SBG https://www.weareteachers. outside tutoring resources.

As District 102 reports improvements com/standards-based-grading/ for many students, we are not alone in continuing to show marginal to no growth The candidate’s responses have been edited for for the following groups: Individual Eduprint. The full unedited responses can be found cation Plan (IEP), Low-Income, Black, Hisonline at: rblandmark.com/2023-election-guide panic and English Learners. The district

of their school experience. The In recent years, District efforts put forth towards DEI 102 has made equity initiaare continuous. tives an important part of its strategic plan. What, in In recent years, District your view, is the value of 102 implemented a stanthese initiatives? Has the dards-based grading system. district started to achieve What are your views of the equitable outcomes for change? Is there anything students and how can it do else that needs to be done, better?

District 102 is a leading TIZIANA LAMBERT and if so, what?

The switch to standardsschool regarding diversity, equity, and inclusion, and I’m extremely based grading has allowed for a more taiproud of the work all District 102 stake- lored instructional approach that enables holders have put forth to ensure all stu- teachers and students to understand spedents feel a sense of belonging in our cific areas of mastery and areas of deficit. school district. From 2019-2021, I had As a parent and educator, I believe that the pleasure of being part of District standards-based grading is an effective 102’s Committee of Equity and Minority method to demonstrate student growth Achievement (CEMA) as a parent. Dur- and mastery of skills. The change from ing my time on the committee, I par- traditional grading to standards-based ticipated in a subgroup that focused on grading has resulted in more consistent the underrepresentation of students and objective ways to measure student of color in accelerated classes and the progress and to ensure that all students overrepresentation of students of color are held to a high standard. Moving in the multi-tiered system of support. away from a point-based system has enThrough this subcommittee, the need couraged students to focus on learning and not just gaining points. for change was determined, The ability to make mistakes and initiatives were created to address underrepresented without risks and continue to students. The CEMA commitpractice these skills till mastee also created the current tery creates perseverance and equity policy that ensures promotes a growth mindset. the district follows a set of Standards-based grading also guidelines. In addition to supports the multi-tiered sysCEMA, the district is committem of support framework. ted to creating a culture that SEE CANDIDATES’ COMPLETE The process of targeting spefocuses on equity by provid- ANSWERS AND BIOS ONLINE cific skills guides teachers to ing staff with quality proidentify struggling students fessional development and and address their learning equity-centered practices that align with deficits immediately. As a parent, I’ve the Social Justice Standards for Teaching experienced the benefits of this process Tolerance. first-hand and attribute my children’s Additionally, the district’s efforts to growth to this process. Since this grading promote inclusivity have resulted in system depends largely on rubrics and more students with disabilities being other scoring guides, I believe specific, included in the general education class- targeted feedback that clearly communiroom. With every successful organiza- cates where students are at and what they tion, there is always room for growth, need to do to reach their full potential is and DEI should always be a priority. The essential. district is challenged to continue to ensure that all students are meeting or exThe candidate’s responses have been edited for print. The full unedited responses can be found ceeding expectations and continue to online at: rblandmark.com/2023-election-guide feel a sense of belonging in every aspect

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LAGRANGE-BROOKFIELD D102 (6 CANDIDATES FOR 4 OPEN SEATS) In recent years, District helpful standards-based grad102 has made equity initiaing is. Many LTHS feeder schools tives an important part of its utilize standards-based grading, strategic plan. What, in your and LTHS has recently shifted to view, is the value of these more of a standards-based gradinitiatives? Has the district ing system. Our District 102 stustarted to achieve equitable dents and families are prepared outcomes for students and for the high school system. how can it do better?

Like all systems within a Equity is a huge priority of school, questions should continMOLLY KNOTT uously be asked. It is the role of mine. When I was teaching in the district, I was proud to be the board to work to make sure an early adopter of the equity work and vi- our systems, grading and otherwise, are sion of District 102. My journey to under- most effective for our students, families, standing the inequities in our education and educators. system has been long and I understand how important it is to provide an equitable What do you believe are the biggest education for our students. There are many challenges facing the district and how components to a student’s identity and it is should the school board address them? the role of school to embrace and support Retention of the highly qualified and those identities so all students feel safe at passionate staff is a challenge. According school. Only when students feel safe can in to the state report card, 26.7% of staff left depth learning occur.

District 102 last year, more than twice the The initiatives in place now are a start, state average. Asking for exit interviews but we must continue to do the work. Con- would be a way to understand why so tinuing to pursue diversity, equity, and in- many staff members are leaving. After unclusion initiatives is mandatory for all our derstanding the causes, we can conduct a students to be successful. We root-cause analysis to come up must understand that all of with solutions to retain staff. I want District 102 to be a place our students are not starting from the same place. Diversity, where staff members feel cared equity, and inclusion training for, supported, fulfilled, and exfor staff members should be cited about their work. When that happens, everyone wins. further implemented. Hiring highly qualified staff members The social and emotional who reflect the student popuneeds of students have shifted lation should be a priority. throughout the past three years.

SEE CANDIDATES’ COMPLETE As a board member, I would In recent years, District ANSWERS AND BIOS ONLINE strongly support research102 implemented a stanbased programs that meet the dard-based grading system. emotional needs of students.

What you are your views of the change? I would support staff training that helps What more needs to be done? them to reach the students in this ever In 2019, I was part of the first team in shifting world. The students of District 102 District 102 to implement standards-based need to feel empowered with knowledge, grading. Standards-based grading pro- critical thinking, love, and compassion. Our vides the students, families, and educators teachers and staff can do that if we emwith specific knowledge of which skills power them with strong support. have been mastered and which are still in progress. This data is imperative to best guide students through their learning.

The candidate’s responses have been edited for print.

Although the mindset shift was challengThe full unedited responses can be found online at: ing years ago, I believe the students, famirblandmark.com/2023-election-guide lies, and educators now understand how

Why are you running to themselves, their families, be on the school board of and their culture representDistrict 102? How would ed in books and curriculum your experience and perat all D102 schools. I believe spectives be valuable as in providing the students of an elected official?

D102 with a full and robust I am running for the education which can someDistrict 102 school board times mean challenging disbecause I am passionate cussions on difficult topics. about public education. I KATHRYN am a working mom with a In recent years, DisCQUISTON M three-year-old son who will trict 102 implemented a eventually attend District standard-based grading 102 schools, so it is also very personal to system. What you are your views of me. I enjoy being a part of the decision- the change? What more needs to be making process and want to have a seat done? at the table and serve as a voice for all I support the change to the standardparents and advocate for the students. based grading system. I believe this I believe education is a public good grading system offers a more accurate and all children should have access to assessment of the student’s progress high-quality education. I am motivated and achievement. With any new system by the desire to make a difference and or policy, it is worthwhile to evaluate serve my community. how it is working for all stakeholders, For the past 15+ years, I have worked including students, teachers and in various sectors, including higher parents. education, non-profit associations, and business. I have experience working What do you believe are the bigwith a variety of stakeholders. I have a gest challenges facing the district and how should the school keen ability to listen and board address them? have also been described The current board has as someone who has a ‘bias done a great job over the for action.’ past several years. They I have attended the mafaced unprecedented chaljority of the board meetlenges during the panings for the 2022-23 school demic and they successfully year. This has helped me brought the students and understand the role of the board, the issues they face SEE CANDIDATES’ COMPLETE teachers back to the classand the questions they ask ANSWERS AND BIOS ONLINE room.

One challenge facing of the administration.

District 102 is revising and In recent years, District 102 has strengthening the academic programs made equity initiatives an impor- to ensure they meet the needs of all tant part of its strategic plan. What, students. I think the way to address this in your view, is the value of these ini- is to fully review the curriculum and entiatives? Has the district started to sure that it is peer-reviewed and based achieve equitable outcomes for stu- in science. This is no small task, but I think it is important that we hold high dents and how can it do better?

Diversity, equity, and inclusion initia- curriculum standards. tives are important because it improves student learning and outcomes. I support these initiatives and if elected, will The candidate’s responses have been edited for print. The full unedited responses can be found continue to advocate for them in D102. online at: rblandmark.com/2023-election-guide All students should be able to see

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Why are you running to be believe that this transition on the school board of District represents an opportunity 102? How would your experito seek new policy initiatives ence and perspectives be valuand, if so, what would you able as an elected official? support pursuing? What poI’m running to help improve lices do you think should be the quality of education in the retained? community and help make a This is a very exciting time for positive impact for all students. our schools, with the transition Serving on the school board of a new superintendent startCATHERINE would allow me the chance to ing this year. I think while Kyle’s MURPHY help shape the educational landdedication has been admirable scape of children in our commuand his efforts appreciated, it’s nity to best prepare them for a successful important to view this as an opportunity educational future. to have a new viewpoint, different set of In addition to my passion for fostering skills, and background to our community. the education system for all children, I also I think the biggest focus should be on imwant to help children who have challenges proving communication within our schools or need extra support. I want to help them and families, including collaborating with have a voice in our community and receive the community. I think it’s also important equal opportunities by helping schools to help foster a caring and inclusive school meet the needs of all students. environment in which the needs of every I believe my diverse experience and back- child matter and are met. Lastly, I think the ground can be valuable as a school board primary focus should always be ensuring member. My leadership and management student achievement. experience taught me the importance of Beyond these efforts, I would welcome collaborating with others and overseeing the opportunity to learn more about the suprojects, including timelines perintendent’s opinions about and budgets. In addition, my our policies, and what they feel experience in community orshould be the top priorities for ganizations demonstrated my the schools in our community commitment to projects and a and develop a system in which cause and illustrated my ability we could all collaboratively deto understand and prioritize the termine what policies are most/ needs of others. least effective.

I’ve also had years of experience in advocacy through my SEE CANDIDATES’ COMPLETE What do you believe are the involvement with Lurie Chil- ANSWERS AND BIOS ONLINE biggest challenges facing the dren’s Hospital of Chicago and district and how should the Texas Children’s Hospital of Ausschool board address them? tin, demonstrating a commitment to public The need to ensure that all students reservice, utilizing my time and experiences ceive the highest-quality education posto help others. sible, so they have the opportunity to sucMost importantly, my experience being a ceed and reach their full potential. Some mom of two kids, one who’s had severe spe- of these challenges can include meeting cial needs, has taught me patience and the diverse students’ needs, recruiting and reskills needed to effectively advocate for their tention of quality educators, and providing needs. I also have a unique background of a safe and healthy learning environment. experience with both the public and private school system in our community.

The newly elected school board members will start their terms as Kyle Schumacher exits as superintendent. Do you

The candidate’s responses have been edited for print.

The full unedited responses can be found online at:

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BROOKFIELD LIBRARY BOARD (5 CANDIDATES FOR 4 OPEN SEATS) The Brookfield library staff and schooling, but also in building capacpatrons have now settled into a new ity for all the people in the community, building. What do you believe the so Carnegie endowed libraries nationlibrary board must do in the coming wide. At the time, that capacity buildfour years to maximize the instituing meant books, but it also meant tion’s potential? public lectures and discussion groups.

To engage with the premise of that The library, as a public institution, question, I don’t know if you can say we both then and now, is not just about are completely settled. The board and books – it never was. The library is staff worked hard to ensure success of about access and dissemination of inJOHN EDGAR the project. I feel we have a fine showformation. However, information is not MIHELIC piece building that gives the Village of just sitting there. The information is Brookfield something to brag about, not of use without trained professionbut we are still learning about the facilals to guide you to what you want and ity both in terms of the structure and campus, and maybe to something that you need but you did in how the public engages with it. Additionally, on not even know. More than books, it is the service top of that, we are still dealing with the low unem- of connecting people with information and each ployment environment which has created hiring other. It is an incredibly important institution in challenges for all organizations in the past year. that it is neutral ground for gathering throughout Currently, the board is in the middle of the strate- the community for all ages. Having a place like the gic planning process so we can assess how well we library can hopefully build bridges so that we can are meeting the community’s needs and what we all be part of a community, as important a conneccan do to make sure that we build on our strengths tion in the first century as in the 21st century. and limit whatever perceived weaknesses we might I am incredibly proud of the staff and leadership have. The goal is to serve the community and to be as they navigated two huge changes in the last few a good neighbor in our immediate surroundings. years. Transitioning to a new building would be exI think it is important to remember that the li- citing yet stressful at any time, but doing so while brary is not just the one building on trying to balance the needs of the Park, Lincoln, and Grand. I live on the community with the need to be safe southeast side of the village, and one in the uncertainty of the pandemic thing that you notice is that aside from made it even more difficult. To do both having the best park, the south side while maintaining and expanding feels underserved by village services. programming like the maker space is The north side of Brookfield is the censomething that I, as a board member, ter of gravity for village services, and am dazzled by. It makes me think of one thing I want to move towards is the quote about how Ginger Rodgers directly serving the residents south of SEE CANDIDATES’ COMPLETE did everything Fred Astaire did – but Ogden. This service can be as simple ANSWERS AND BIOS ONLINE backwards and in high heels. as a book bike to a potential satellite That said, there are almost twenty branch, but we have to balance all thousand people in Brookfield, and these needs within the constraints of the library’s each person has a different vision of what the budget.

Library is and can be. Our job as democratically elected board members is to listen to those viewWhat do you believe is the role of a library in points and create a communal vision as we play our the 21st century? What kind of programming role in guiding the Library into the future. We will and services should a library offer; and what continue to offer as much to the community within should it not offer? Is the Brookfield library the various constraints of budget, space, staff time, meeting its mission now? and staff expertise that we can so that we meet the The history of the library in Brookfield starts with needs and desires of the community while recogthe philanthropy of Andrew Carnegie at the turn of nizing that we cannot be everything for everyone. the last century. One of the things that Carnegie, as well as other thinkers at the time, knew was that The candidate’s responses have been edited for print.

The full unedited responses can be found online at: an educated populace is a social good. This meant rblandmark.com/2023-election-guide that there was investment not just in more public

The Brookfield liing to meet that end. The brary staff and patrons needs of the community have now settled into a will change with time. The new building. What do building was designed you believe the library with flexibility in mind for board must do in the future needs. coming four years to I believe there are ways maximize the instituwe can expand and enrich tion’s potential? community awareness The board is currently of the diversity amid and LINDA undergoing a process to around us without alienKAMPSCHROEDER formulate our long-range ating our patrons and plan. There was a survey community members. sent out and listening sessions held as a start to this process.

In the past few years, throughMaking the transition to the new li- out the nation and even locally, brary was a tremendous undertaking. there have been attempts to cenBoth the staff and the public still need sor library materials. As a library time to acclimate to the new space trustee, how would you suggest and “grow into it.” staff approach requests to remove What do you believe is the role of a materials? Do you believe the lilibrary in the 21st century? What kind brary’s collection serves and reof programming and services should flects Brookfield? a library offer; and what should it not Staff members must adhere to the offer? Is the Brookfield lipolicy set forth by the brary meeting its mission board of trustees regardnow? ing censorship and the The library is the culremoval of materials. It tural, educational, and is not an individual decisocial hub of the comsion. The board supports munity. The library is conthe First Amendment. tinuously striving to meet Even with the new that end. The needs of the building, space is limited. community will change SEE CANDIDATES’ COMPLETE The inter-library loan syswith time. The building ANSWERS AND BIOS ONLINE tem is invaluable in prowas designed with flexviding materials for our ibility in mind for future patrons while keeping needs. costs within budget. The library also I believe there are ways we can ex- has an impressive online database. pand and enrich community awareness of the diversity amid and around What other issues are important us without alienating our patrons and to you as library board candidate? community members.

How would you advocate for them as a board member?

What do you believe is the role of I see a great opportunity for the lia library in the 21st century? What brary to remain vibrant and grow in kind of programming and services its role as a hub in the community. I should a library offer; and what would love to continue being a part should it not offer? Is the Brook- of that process. field library meeting its mission now?

The candidate’s responses have been edited for print. The full unedited responses can The library is the cultural, educabe found online at: rblandmark.com/2023tional, and social hub of the commuelection-guide nity. The library is continuously striv-

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BROOKFIELD LIBRARY BOARD (5 CANDIDATES FOR 4 OPEN SEATS) What do you believe is the lived up to their mission to “create role of a library in the 21st cena cultural, educational, and infortury? What kind of programmational center for the community ming and services should a by providing readily accessible and library offer; and what should organized materials, programs, it not offer? Is the Brookfield and services that enrich the lives of library meeting its mission residents of all ages.” I am a library now? patron and have experienced, firstThe library of the 21st century hand, the welcoming environment is a combined physical environof our library, and the enrichment MITZI NORTON it offers is priceless. There is no betment and a digital environment that is centered around the ter example of the library living out needs of the people, providing access to its mission than The Mobile Museum of Toltools and resources at no cost, enriching lives erance Civil Rights Exhibit in June 2022. This and strengthening communities. The role of exhibit was a moving cultural immersion that the library is to provide a welcoming space – prompted important discussions on hate in all physical and online – that supports, teaches, its forms, nonviolent protest, and an excellent and inspires. educational tool on human rights. Thanks to The library should continue to offer an ar- our library, Brookfield was very fortunate to ray of programming for every age, from in- have this experience. fants to seniors. As Brookfield grows more diWhile we’d all like to see the library continue verse, the library should offer more programs to expand and grow, discontinuing programs in Spanish and other foreign languages, as that are not well-attended and/or do not fit needed. The community would the needs of the community, also benefit from more technolmakes good sense to me. ogy classes, especially those that help learners understand the ins What other issues are imporand outs of working in the Cloud tant to you as library board and how to make best use of candidate? How would you their mobile devices. advocate for them as a board With the dramatic rise in hymember? brid and remote work since the The Linda Sokol Francis Brookstart of the pandemic, the library field Library is operated by a of the 21st century should be SEE CANDIDATES’ COMPLETE dedicated, future-focused, talprepared for an increase in re- ANSWERS AND BIOS ONLINE ented, diverse team of librarmote workers looking to spend ians and staff. As a library board their workday there. There will candidate, I want them to know be a continued need for quiet space, as well that I support and appreciate them. It is imas collaboration space. The library will always portant to me that we maintain an excellent need well-functioning Wi-Fi and plenty of mo- library staff, as they are the face of the library bile hot spot devices available for checkout. and carry out the daily tasks and responsibilThe pandemic also brought about a shift ities that make the library a vital community in the workforce and people looking for jobs. resource. To that end, I would advocate for Assistance with job searches, resume writing, development opportunities for the staff to filing for unemployment, and trade school learn and grow, and bring those key learnapplications will continue to be needed. The ings back to our library for consideration. I library should remain a resource for social spent most of my career in higher educaservices for the homeless, the disadvantaged tion and understand that lifelong learning elderly, and children. If it were financially fea- benefits not only the individual, but also the sible, having a social worker on staff at the institution they serve. library would be a tremendous asset, too.

Across the past few years, our library has The candidate’s responses have been edited for print.

The full unedited responses can be found online at: proven itself to be resilient and future-forblandmark.com/2023-election-guide cused, and adaptable. I believe they have

What do you believe is are described as being “porn.” To the role of a library in the me material where the purpose 21st century? What kind of of the content is explicitly to titprogramming and services illate is “pornography.” Material should a library offer; and whose sexual content is part of what should it not offer? Is the a narrative or educational, is not.

Brookfield library meeting its When asked to remove mamission now? terials, I’d have the librarians Libraries are no longer just remind patrons that there are about providing access to plenty of books in the stacks KARL A. OLSON they don’t agree with thembooks – which we already do remarkably well – but about selves. The purpose of the library providing a community meeting space and is to open lines of discussion, not shield peocommunity programming. As a parent, I ple from content. know the library already provides fantastic On a broader note, I think our collection alprogramming for children particularly in ready serves the community well. I’ve never the early childhood years (whoever thought had trouble getting books I’d like through to add children’s yoga/zumba events is bril- SWAN. While I understand the cost conliant.) I want to see that continue. I think we straints of providing digital material, I think also do an excellent job of serving the needs we’ve done an excellent job at that as well. of our teens and senior citizens. Our library I’d like to see more “recommended” and offers excellent programming as is. My goal curated tables. I walk into bookstores and alon the board is to ensure it stays the course. ways find things to read, because they have Of course, we do need to make sure that our tables and displays showcasing interesting programming doesn’t become stale and books. We have some at the library, but I evolves as needed. think more would be ideal. I also love that the library has branched out beyond books In the past few years, and offers things like STEM mathroughout the nation and terial and board games for check even locally, there have out. been attempts to censor library materials. As a library What other issues are imtrustee, how would you sugportant to you as library board gest staff approach requests candidate? How would you to remove materials? Do advocate for them as a board you believe the library’s colmember? lection serves and reflects SEE CANDIDATES’ COMPLETE We need to make sure that we Brookfield? are careful stewards of the comANSWERS AND BIOS ONLINE As a kid, I mined banned munity’s tax dollars. I will always book lists for reading material. promote a balanced budget and If someone thought I shouldn’t read some- an eye towards thrift - so long as we do not thing, I was deeply curious as to why. I’ve sacrifice the quality of programming Brookseen a number of libraries recently appeal to field has come to expect from the library. this sentiment with prominent tables highI’d also like to see closer cooperation with lighting banned books. I like that approach. the town. I recall the parks department hostYou can consider me a firewall against cen- ing a summer kickoff event the same day sorship. that the library was hosting theirs. My kids On a more nuanced angle, the library couldn’t go to both. That speaks to me of doesn’t have an endless budget and can’t a lack of communication that I’d like to see stock every book. It doesn’t stock pornog- bridged. raphy and I don’t think it should. My wife and I spoke about this recently, pondering The candidate’s responses have been edited for print. The full unedited responses can be found what defines “pornography” to us. Many of online at: rblandmark.com/2023-election-guide the books that people want to see banned

RBLANDMARK.COM

The Landmark, March 15, 2023

sponsored by

BROOKFIELD LIBRARY BOARD (5 CANDIDATES FOR 4 OPEN SEATS) In the past few years, The Brookfield library staff throughout the nation and and patrons have now settled even locally, there have been into a new building. What do attempts to censor library you believe the library board materials. As a library trustee, must do in the coming four how would you suggest staff years to maximize the instituapproach requests to remove tion’s potential? materials? Do you believe the The library board must conlibrary’s collection serves and tinue to respond to the needs reflects Brookfield? of the community. The resident JENNIFER As a library board member, my survey that began the strategic PALIATKA role, in part, is to advocate for the planning process in October library and set policies for the is a great way to get feedback from the community. Continuing to seek in- operation of the library. Currently, there are put from residents in listening sessions and policies in place that the library and board of then building short and long term goals for trustees follow when an item is challenged the library is an excellent way to move for- for removal from the library. The process is ward. Additionally, the library board must fair and gives the resident an opportunity to continue to identify and safeguard revenue express their concerns about an item(s). One streams, including grants and donors, for of the things I love about Brookfield is the dithe library. versity that I see in the village’s residents. We can see ourselves reflected in the schools, What do you believe is the role of a li- the businesses, the residents, and, yes, in brary in the 21st century? What kind of the collection at the library. I have witnessed programming and services should a li- firsthand the library’s willingness to purchase brary offer; and what should it not offer? materials that enrich my life and my daughIs the Brookfield library meeting its mis- ter’s life. sion now?

When I started as an acaWhat other issues are impordemic librarian 22 years ago, tant to you as a library board libraries and their patrons candidate? How would you looked very different from advocate for them as a board the way they do now. We are member? more reliant on the internet, As a trustee, I would like ensure a mobile devices, and e-conhealthy library budget for any plantent. However, not everyone ning or programs that the library can afford all of these technolwould like implement down the ogies or have the knowledge SEE CANDIDATES’ COMPLETE road. I know the library just built to navigate content. Libraries ANSWERS AND BIOS ONLINE a beautiful new facility. But, as our are places where people can diverse populations within the vilhave equal access to these lage shift, so must the library. I am things. In 2023, we are more likely to work interested in serving the Spanish-speaking/ from home, participate in the gig economy, bilingual population in our town. I would like or be online content creators. Libraries can to ensure that the many residents who live in offer spaces, equipment, and programming apartment buildings in town know they have on these newer trends. And yes, in assisting library access and encourage them to use the the public with these things, and provid- resources offered through the library. Finally, ing so much more through programming, I hope to put my many years of experience the library does fulfill its mission to “create as a librarian and a resident of Brookfield toa cultural, educational, and informational gether to serve my hometown. center for the community by providing readily accessible and organized materials, The candidate’s responses have been edited for print. The full unedited responses can be found programs, and services…” online at: rblandmark.com/2023-election-guide

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34

The Landmark, March 15, 2023

LTHS board candidate looking to bring educator’s perspective Justin Clark not interested in partisan politics, just ‘what’s best for kids’

cial studies for more than 30 years at Orland Junior High School and his mother was an English teacher at Palos South Middle School before becoming an assistant principal and then principal at the school.

Clark, who grew up in Orland Park, initially didn’t pursue a career in education. After graduating from Eastern Illinois University with a degree in business, Clark was hired as

By BOB SKOLNIK a management trainee by the Hyatt CorporaContributing Reporter tion.

He then helped manage a downtown ChicaJustin Clark believes that the Lyons Town- go restaurant for a couple of years before folship High School District 204 school board lowing in his parents’ footsteps. He earned a needs a professional educator on it. second bachelor’s degree in English and secClark, who is the associate principal for ondary education and was hired building operations at Richards as an English teacher at Lockport High School in Oak Lawn, is one High School. of two professional educators, Clark later moved to Shepard the other is Plainfield District 202 High School, where after seven Director of Student Services Tim years as an English teacher he Albores, running for one of the became assistant principal for three seats available on the LTHS curriculum and instruction. He school board in April. Clark is was hired at Richards in 2021. running independently.

While working as an educator, “Am I part of the education esClark earned two master’s detablishment? Absolutely, I’m gogrees and a doctorate in educaing to say it’s more of positive or tion.

JUSTIN CLARK a negative for this reason,” Clark Clark says that while test told the Landmark in a telephone scores are important, LTHS must interview. “There is always a learning curve also focus on improving education is other for people when they get on the school board ways, especially at a time when many collegto understand the jargon and the nuance of es and universities are becoming admission education. That would be just like for any test optional and employers are looking for job.” people with soft skills.

As an educator, Clark says his focus would “[SAT] an incredibly important data point, always be what’s best for kids. Both of Clark’s but schools and colleges and other things are parents were educators. His father taught so- looking at other ways to evaluate how schools

LTHS LAND

Intense opposition from page 1 in the future, it will conduct a meeting to set the new bidding price and terms and conditions,” school board President Kari Dillon told the Landmark in an email. “The board has not begun next steps related to vetting additional options that would maximize the value of the property moving forward.”

The school board had set a $55 million minimum price for the land. In January it received two bids, a $55 million offer from Bridge Industrial, which wanted to build an industrial park on the site, and a $46.5 million from ProLogis, a company that specializes in building warehouses and distri-

bution centers.

The proposed sale sparked intense opposition from those who live in the quiet neighborhood near the tract of wooded land southwest of 79th Street and Willow Springs Road. Pleasantdale Elementary School is adjacent to the LTHS-owned land.

Those opposed to the sale said an industrial park would ruin their neighborhood, create congestion and create pollution. The deal fell apart after the village of Willow Springs made clear that it would not alter the zoning to allow industrial development.

As a result, Bridge never paid LTHS the required earnest money and the school board officially rejected the bids on Jan. 23 at a meeting attended by more than 100 opponents of the sale.

Those against the sale continued to attend and speak out at every school board meeting since, criticizing the school board

and students are doing,” Clark said.

Clark said he wants to know how LTHS is doing in improving student growth and just not proficiency.

Clark is passionate about expanding opportunities for students who are interested in options other than going to college after high school.

“Every student that walks in should be able to have a rich experience through their four years to get themselves not only prepared to make that jump from high school to post high school and to thrive within it,” Clark said.

Clark, 44, is the youngest among the seven candidates vying for three seats on the school board. He is the only candidate who hasn’t had any children attend LTHS, although that will change next year when his son becomes a freshman. He is running an energetic campaign with a detailed and sophisticated website. He clearly enjoys talking about school issues.

Clark said that homework and the grading system at LTHS comes up often when talking with voters. He applauds the administration’s move to retreat on some of the changes made to the grading system a couple of years ago. Once again, homework counts towards a student’s final grade and to test retakes have been limited.

“I’m very, very happy that it seems like the school administration was responsive to the community regarding some of their con-

cerns,” Clark said.

On another hot-button issue, Clark says LTHS should take the approximately 70-acre tract of undeveloped land it owns in Willow Springs off the market for the time being and work with the community after an attempted sale to an industrial firm fell apart.

The proposed sale drew strong opposition from those who live near the land and those whose children attend Pleasantdale Elementary School s just west of the LTHS parcel.

Clark criticized the LTHS administration and school board for not involving the community earlier.

The school district did not announce that it was considering selling the land until eight months after being approached by the potential buyer.

“There definitely has been some level of miscommunication and there definitely has been a lack of engaging in the community,” Clark said. “The communication, the collaboration has been lacking. I do think the land needs to be sold, but you need to walk it all the way back in a really thoughtful way with full collaboration.”

The LTHS school board race has strong ideological undercurrents this year, but Clark says he’s not interested in labels.

“Right now, I would say that I am the most non-partisan,” Clark said. “If you want to look at it real generally … I’m sort of taking positions from both those sides and I’m thinking about what is best for the kids.”

for trying to sell the land to an industrial developer and accusing the board of not caring about the Pleasantdale neighborhood.

They have called for the board to make clear that it would not again try to sell the land to an industrial developer.

“We are grateful for our engaged community and have heard your feedback, both for and against the land sale,” a press release issued last week by the school board stated.

The school board is still interested in ultimately the selling the land, which was originally purchased in 1955 and 1962 as the possible site for a new high school should one ever be needed. LTHS officials have decided that there is no need for a new high school in the foreseeable future.

“The board will continue to explore options on how to maximize the property’s impact for our entire District 204 commu-

nity,” the press release stated. “When that time comes, new terms, conditions and pricing would be established.”

Most of the opponents of the land sale have said that they are not opposed to selling it, they just are opposed to a sale for industrial development. The land is currently zoned to allow single-family housing, retail or a senior housing.

The school board would like to use proceeds from the land sale to upgrade the technology and aging infrastructure of its two campuses in LaGrange and Western Springs.

The press release acknowledged the anger and frustration that the proposed sale caused in the Pleasantdale community and areas near it.

“We understand the stress and uncertainty that many in our community felt these past few months,” the press release stated.

P O L I C E

R E P O R T S

The Landmark, March 15, 2023

35

Jewelry, cash taken in Brookfield home burglary Brookfield police say a vehicle observed on doorbell camera video pulling into the driveway of a home that was burglarized in the 4400 block of 44th Place on the afternoon of March 9 has been linked to several other burglaries throughout the Chicago suburbs.

According to police, a silver Chevy Traverse was captured pulling into the home’s driveway at about 4:40 p.m. A man is seen exiting the rear driver’s side door before the video ends.

The homeowners reported to police at 5:10 p.m. that they had arrived home to find the rear door to their residence had been forced open and that several rooms had been ransacked, with multiple items missing, including jewelry, cash, checks and other bank documents.

As part of their investigation, Brookfield police reported learning the same vehicle seen pulling into the victim’s driveway had been used in burglaries in Lincolnshire, Park Ridge, Hickory Hills, Rolling Meadows and Palatine Township.

■ A resident of the 3200 block of Grand

Boulevard called police to report that sometime overnight on March 9-10 someone tampered with two screen windows on the east side of his home.

According to the police report, the screens had been slid toward the middle, and there was damage along the screen’s frame. The main windows were locked and no entry was made to the home. No other screens appeared to have been tampered with.

Facebook Bitcoin scam A 50-year-old Brookfield woman was scammed out of about $3,600 earlier this month after someone posing as a high school classmate contacted her on Facebook Messenger about investing in a Bitcoin scheme that promised a $1,500 return on a $100 investment.

The scammer reportedly gave as proof an image of the classmate’s Illinois ID and built enough trust that the victim sent payments of $100 and $900. When the immediate payouts didn’t come, the scammer asked for

more money, citing various fees and the victim sent a total of $3,580 to various CashApp accounts and a Bitcoin wallet.

When the scammer asked for a final $200 “for the government,” the victim said she was going to police.

Their investigation revealed that the victim’s high school classmate had her Facebook account hacked after falling for a similar Bitcoin scam, telling police she had sent the scammer images of herself and her state ID.

Smash and grab An employee at Skadarliya, 9237 Ogden Ave. in Brookfield, called police on March 9 at about 9:15 p.m. to report that someone had burglarized his car, which was parked in the lot outside the restaurant.

According to police, the burglary was captured on a security camera video, which showed a silver Mazda pull into the parking lot at about 7:35 p.m. A man wearing a ski mask, ball cap and yellow reflective vest

with the work “Bailey” on it gets out of the Mazda and checks out another vehicle in the parking lot before looking inside the victim’s vehicle.

The man then is seen going back to his vehicle and retrieving an object which he uses to break out the front passenger side window and rear driver’s side window, taking from the interior a black backpack and a black gym bag. The man then gets back into the Mazda and drives off.

According to police, the license plate on the Mazda registered to a Chicago resident who had reported his license plate stolen in January. Video capturing that theft showed the offender getting out of a silver Mazda.

These items were obtained from police reports filed by the Riverside, North Riverside and Brookfield police departments, March 6-12, 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

By Linda Sokol Francis. E.A.

T

OPTIONS FOR TAXPAYERS WHO NEED HELP PAYING THEIR TAX BILL: PART II

axpayers who can’t pay the full amount of federal taxes they owe should file their tax return on time and pay as much as possible. This will help reduce penalties and interest. If they can’t pay their full bill, they have some other options. Here are some tips for taxpayers who owe tax, but who can’t immediately pay their tax bill.

Taxpayers should file their tax return or request an extension of time to file by the deadline. People who owe tax and do not file their return on time or request an extension may face a failure-to-file penalty. Taxpayers should remember that an extension of time to file is not an extension of time to pay. An extension gives taxpayers until October to file their 2022 tax return, but taxes owed are still due by the April deadline. Pay as much as possible by the April due date. IRS.gov has information for taxpayers who can’t afford to pay taxes they owe.

Whether filing a return or requesting an extension, taxpayers must pay their tax bill in full by the April filing deadline to avoid penalties and interest. People who do not pay their taxes on time will face a failure-to-pay penalty.

Some disaster victims, taxpayers living overseas, military service members and eligible support personnel in combat zones have more time beyond the April deadline to file and pay their taxes.

Taxpayers should also check their state filing and payment deadlines, which may be different from the federal April 18 deadline. A list of state tax division websites is available through the Federation of Tax Administrators.

Linda Sokol Francis, E.A.

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36

The Landmark, March 15, 2023

I

Opinion

THE LANDMARK VIEW

KOSEY CORNER

Lifting up teens

Irish or Italian, these celebrations are both sweet

f the COVID-19 pandemic exposed the need for everyone to be cognizant of attending to their mental health, it very much revealed just how important it is not to discount how the pandemic impacted younger people.

While the pandemic upset everyone’s life, it was particularly hard on children who were suddenly disconnected from their peers and social structure during a time when they are trying to navigate a time of life when connections are made and fostered with people of their own age and the wider world.

So, the new teen mental health center The Loft at 8 Corners in Brookfield, a partnership involving NAMI Metro Chicago and Pillars Community Health, could not have come at a better time.

In development for at least the past six months, The Loft is the result of cooperation from a network of people, nonprofit foundations, township and county health agencies who provided critical funding, expertise and guidance.

The effort actively included input from the constituency The Loft is meant to serve – high school age teens – and it is staffed by young adults, who trained in assessing mental health and who can recommend appropriate mental health services, many of which include connecting teens to peer support groups and classes, to one-on-one and family counseling and up to and including crisis intervention.

The Loft’s services are free and are available to high school age teens 365 days a year, from 1 to 8 p.m. You can simply walk in or schedule an appointment; the goal is making teens experiencing mental health issues or crises comfortable and welcome in seeking the help they need.

Teens don’t have to go it alone, either. Their families are welcome to learn with them and partner in their recovery journey. Ultimately, The Loft seeks to provide teens with tools they need to recognize when they are experiencing mental health issues and how to cope with them.

NAMI has long offered adults “living room” type settings, welcoming and comfortable, to help those over the age of 18 address mental health issues. But mental health is not an adults-only issue, and addressing teen mental health is especially vital in providing ways for those teens to move into full adulthood to help themselves.

As far as we know, this center is a first in the Chicago region, and as the model matures our hope is that NAMI and Pillars Community Health can roll out similar teen mental health centers in other places within the communities the agencies serve.

But The Loft at 8 Corners is a great start and a welcome addition to the communities here.

C

ontinued Happy St. Patrick’s Day to all who are Irish, want to be Irish and claim to be Irish at this time of year. With things semi back to normal, people were able to show their green with parades and celebrations. If I’m not mistaken, Chicago’s parade is the largest in the country.

So, after the last helping of corned beef, cabbage and boiled potatoes has been washed down by a pint of Guinness, we go right on to the next celebration – St. Joseph’s Day. Celebrated on March 19, St. Joseph’s Day arrived in America with Sicilian immigrants and have at their center very elaborate St. Joseph tables, which are usually arranged in three tiers, representing the Trinity.

A statue or picture of St. Joseph is prominently placed on the highest tier. The tables are adorned with flowers, fruits and breads. Most of the loaves of bread are baked into elaborate shapes, the cross being used most. Small loaves are sometimes available for guests to take home. The tables are meatless, but sometimes they will include fish.

Sweets are in abundance on the tables, and in Sicily they hold a prominent place and cover most of the

tables. Prominent on the sweet table is the traditional St. Joseph cake, called a zeppole.

It is similar to a French doughnut, cut in half and filled with either custard or cannoli filling. To find a full selection of St. Joseph’s Day treats, go to Vesuvio Bakery in North Riverside.

It surprises me the things I learn when writing this column, so I was surprised to learn that St. Joseph’s Day is celebrated annually in New Orleans. I have a feeling it is a little tamer that the usual Mardi Gras in the French Quarter.

They do have parades and dozens of altars which are assembled to honor St. Joseph, the earthly father of Jesus.

Since this is the Lenten season and many Catholics give up sweets, you may want to bypass the sweet tables – or get what we call a dispensation.

I checked out the menu here at Cantata to see if they have St. Patrick’s Day or St. Joseph’s Day planned, but I don’t see anything unless mac and cheese counts. OK, chef, you may want to revise things a bit!

Have a good week. It’s good here at Cantata, where I’m working on getting stronger. The legs still need work, but they don’t need to be in marathon-running shape, just your basic everyday stuff.

JOANNE KOSEY

LETTERS

Article on candidate was unfair I am a longtime resident and follower of the Landmark and feel that Skolnik’s article was unfairly biased against Tim Vlcek who is running for the school board (“LTHS board candidate attended Awake Illinois workshop in January,” News, March 1).

I know the man and know what he represents. I do not believe that this was fairly portrayed.

Robert Liska Riverside

Send letters to the Editor Bob Uphues, Riverside-Brookfield Landmark e-mail: buphues@rblandmark.com include name, address and daytime phone number for verification

The Landmark, March 15, 2023

37

Brookfield library must continue to be resource for all

W

ith great enthusiasm, I announce my candidacy for the Board of Trustees for the Linda Sokol Francis Brookfield Library. As a former higher education administrator, I understand the importance and value of a great library. I would be honored to serve as a trustee to support the library’s mission and advocate for policies and programs that support the needs of our community.

I have patronized the library since moving to Brookfield in 2016. I was new to the village and frequented the library to borrow books, participate in programs and attend meetings for various community groups. It was a great way to meet people.

In 2017, I co-founded a local community group, and we often met at the library and hosted educational programs in the meeting spaces.

Since I was a child, my parents and teach-

ported boards as a professional ers never missed an opportunity board secretary and board to tell me how special a library assistant. Currently, I am the is. Where else can you go where manager of executive adminyou are always welcome, walk istration at NIQ, the leading in with less than a dime in your global consumer intelligence pocket, and leave with wondercompany. Good governance ful treasures? The important of is very important to me and lifelong learning was instilled something at which I excel. This in me at a young age. makes me uniquely qualified to An institution such as the serve on the board.

Brookfield Library is a tremenI believe that great communidous resource for our residents, ties are cultivated by engaged far greater than just a place to residents. Here in Brookfield, check out books, and truly a I have volunteered for Project community center. The board of Candidate Op-ed NICE, Share Food Share Love our library makes big, bold deand I co-founded Indivisible cisions to ensure the library is Brookfield in 2017. I am also a volunteer an inclusive space that welcomes all people homestay host for WorldChicago. and reflects the diversity of the Brookfield Outside of Brookfield, I have volunteered community and the world. extensively for Housing Forward, American Throughout my adulthood and career, I Greyhound and The Chicago Help Initiahave served on nonprofit boards and sup-

MITZI NORTON

Rudolph J. Nekovar Jr., 86

OBITUARIES

Mildred Boburka, 88 Medical office receptionist Mildred Boburka (nee Brozik), 88, of Brookfield, died March 5, 2023.

Ms. Boburka was born Jan. 7, 1935 and worked as a receptionist at an ear, nose and throat physician’s office.

She was the wife of the late Paul F. Boburka; the mother of Deborah (Glen) Mottl, Paul (Linda) Boburka, Steve Boburka and Amy (Tom) Kendall; the daughter of the late Joseph and the late Josephine Brozik; the grandmother of Amanda (Shane) Deuel, Eric Boburka, Evan (Samantha) Boburka, Josh Boburka, Katherine Kendall and Andrew Kendall; the great grandmother of Owen Deuel and Aidan Boburka; the sister of the late Joseph (late Lee) Brozik; and an aunt to many nieces and nephews.

Cremation was private.

Johnson-Nosek Funeral Home, Brookfield, handled arrangements.

Online condolences may be offered at JohnsonNosek.com.

Joanna M. Falco, 75 Housekeeper for Paul and Angela Harvey

Joanna Maria Falco (nee Burdi), 75, of North Riverside, died March 4, 2023 in Winfield.

Ms. Falco was born Jan. 14, 1948 in Chicago and worked as the housekeeper for renowned ABC Radio broadcaster Paul Harvey and his wife, business partner and producer, Lynne “Angel” Harvey, who lived in River Forest.

She was the mother of Anna (Hans Yu) Falco, Gabriel (Jennifer Dekker) Falco and Rocco Falco; the grandmother of Alexandra, Angelia, Colin, Nicholas, Isabella, Joanna, Gabriella, Joseph, Gigi; the great grandmother of Johnny, Michael, Anthony and Gianna; the sister of Mary (late Alex) Bratuljevich and the late Anthony (Rosemary) Burdi; and the aunt of many nieces.

Visitation is Wednesday, March 15, from 2 to 5 p.m. at Kuratko-Nosek Funeral Home, 2447 Desplaines Ave., North Riverside, with a memorial service at 4 p.m.

Online condolences, memories and photographs may be shared at KuratkoNosek.com.

tive. Active participation and service has always been meaningful to me.

I am excited for the future of the Linda Sokol Francis Brookfield Library. Recently, I attended a listening session for the library’s strategic planning process. I appreciated the opportunity to share my thoughts and ideas, and was inspired by what I heard from other participants.

It is important to me that our library maintains equitable access to resources and materials for learners of all abilities, and provides resources, collections and events that are both diverse and inclusive.

Brookfield is fortunate to have the most dedicated, driven and talented library staff.

I am eager, if elected, to work with our library director to ensure the Linda Sokol Francis Brookfield Library best meets the needs of our growing, evolving village.

Please vote for Mitzi Norton on April 4.

L. Elaine Lawson, 98 Lifelong musician L. Elaine Lawson (nee Kranz), 98, of Lombard and formerly of Brookfield and Downers Grove, died March 10, 2023.

Ms. Lawson was a wonderful, loving mom and grandma who was a lifelong musician who enjoyed music and loved her grandchildren dearly.

She was the wife of 62 years to the late Lloyd Arelando Lawson; the mother of Lana (Eric) Larson and Cathy (Jim) Lawson-Kennedy; the grandmother of Brad Larson and Liz Larson; the sister of Erna (the late William) Ahlemeyer and the late Marguerite (the late Donald) Fowler; and the aunt and great aunt of many nieces and nephews.

Visitation is Monday, March 20 from 12:30 p.m. to time of service at 1 p.m. at Hitzeman Funeral Home, 9445 31st St., Brookfield. Interment is at Fairmount Willow Hills Memorial Park, Willow Springs.

Memorials are appreciated to the family.

Send sympathy cards to Hitzeman Funeral Home, 9445 31st St., Brookfield, 60513, c/o the L. Elaine Lawson family.

Retired florist Rudolph J. “Rudy” Nekovar, Jr., 86, of Hodgkins and formerly of Riverside, North Riverside and Cicero, died March 6, 2023.

Mr. Nekovar was born May 4, 1936 and was a retired florist of many years working with Romani Florists, Phillips Flowers, Heritage House Florists and Curtiss Bridal. He was the wedding coordinator at Riverside Presbyterian Church for many years and was known as the “Original Wedding Singer,” long before the movie.

He had the gift of music and was a talented singer dating back to the 1940s and ’50s and won first place at Hot Point Family Night in April of 1949, among many other awards. He loved crosswords, pro wrestling and was an avid fan of “Judge Judy.”

Mr. Nekovar father of Curtis (Janet) Nekovar, Melody Johnson and Keri (Jorge) Herrera; the former spouse and dear friend of Christine Stout; and the grandfather of Nicole (Ray) Dalrymple and Morgan, Nicholas and Benjamin Johnson.

A memorial service will be held at Highlands Presbyterian Church, 1902 W. 59th St., LaGrange Highlands, on May 6 at 11 a.m. A reception at the church will follow. Inurnment at Bronswood Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorials to Angels Grace Hospice. 440 Quadrangle Dr., #G, Bolingbrook, 60440 are appreciated.

Arrangements were handled by the Original Kuratko Family, Brian D. Kuratko, funeral director.

38

Sports

The Landmark, March 15, 2023

New LTHS softball coach hits the ground running Megan Pyles takes over program on the upswing

By BILL STONE Contributing Reporter

After officially being hired in February, new Lyons Township High School varsity softball coach Megan Pyles has hit the ground running.

“Literally the next day I was meeting players for open gym, and going through all of the coaches meetings and the spring sports meeting,” Pyles said. “It’s been a really nonstop process.”

Pyles brings enthusiasm and experience to the Lions, who are coming off their best seasons in recent memory with a seniorled lineup.

In 2022, LTHS was 21-4, earned a share of its first West Suburban Conference Silver

PROVIDED

Megan Pyles title since 1990 and won its first regional since 2017. The Lions reached the IHSA Class 4A Marist Sectional final before losing to the host RedHawks 1-0.

Pyles has been coaching locally in traveling softball with the Under-18 Blazers teams based in Hodgkins and Willow Springs. She was encouraged by Blazers players who attend LTHS to inquire about the opening.

“That’s been a dream of mine since I was little to coach high school softball. It’s a really great program,” Pyles said. “Lots of them are from our [Blazers] program so it’s nice to see some familiar faces and the new ones so I’m really excited for the opportunity.”

Pyles was a four-year varsity player at Evergreen Park High School and played one season at Moraine Valley Community College. She then earned a bachelor’s degree in sports and fitness administration from St. Xavier University.

Steph D’Anna returns as the Lions’ varsity assistant coach. New junior varsity coach Brian Wolf formerly coached the

freshmen with Brennan Quick. New freshman coaches are head coach Kylie Maloy, also a Blazers coach, and Jason Kurey.

Pyles appreciates her coaches at Evergreen Park, John O’Connor and former Lewis University player Michelle Vucsko. She hopes to bring their different approaches to her new position.

“I would love for [my players] to be energetic. I’m very big on development from the freshmen up. My main goal is to get equality between all three programs,” Pyles said.

“I really want to create a good culture here where they all have a really good high school experience. With my travel team, a lot of girls come back, they go to different high schools, and they had a really bad high school experience. That’s something I want to alleviate and to have a really positive experience for everyone that comes through this program.”

RBHS boys water polo fights numbers game Bulldogs rely on returning starters with just 9 players on roster

By BILL STONE Contributing Reporter

Senior Brad Hruska and his RiversideBrookfield High School boys water polo teammates accept the challenge of having no more than nine players for matches this season.

“In preseason and regular season I’d say we are all working twice as hard as last year because we have to make up for the players we have lost,” Hruska said.

Four starters return -- juniors Alex Jacobs (26 goals, 45 assists, 36 steals in 2022) and Hayden Marrs, who had team highs of 38 assists and 67 steals along with 30 goals, and seniors Ruska (16 goals, 21 assists, 15 steals) and Murphy Regan (18 goals, 31 assists, 19 steals).

ALEX JACOBS

BRAD RUSKA

Other team members are sophomores Julio Aranda, Martynas Bieliauskas, Rylan Bruno and Avi Ponnappan and freshmen Jake Kocourek and Henry Manning.

The Bulldogs are hoping to at least return to the sectional semifinals. They were 12-12 last season and reached the Lyons Township Sectional semifinals before losing 17-5 to the host Lions, who finished third in state. “[Our plan is] build off what we are good

at, work on what we are weak on,” RBHS coach Kevin Wolak said. “I think our strength is going to be our outside shooting coming from Alex, Murphy and Brad.”

The Bulldogs MURPHY REGAN graduated firstteam all-sectional player Liam Matthews from their three 2022 all-sectional honorees. Marrs was second-team all-sectional and Murphy Regan was third-team all-sectional. A member of the Class 2A boys cross country state championship team in November, Marrs currently is splitting time between sports and mostly competing indoor track.

Jacobs should pick up some of the offensive slack. He made the USA Water Polo Olympic Development Program Midwest

Zone team and had a busy offseason with Elmhurst Aquatics.

“Alex will play a huge role on our team,” Wolak said.

Hruska, who has worked on improving his speed in the water, and Regan seek to provide leadership as seniors.

“Based on my experience, I can see that it’s important to have a good defense,” Regan said. “We have strong swimmers, which is a key to having a good water polo team. We also have a team of players that are dedicated to trying their best.”

The Bulldogs have started 1-3, losing their season and home opener to Curie 22-5 on March 8 and finishing fourth at the Bradley-Bourbonnais Tournament on March 11. RBHS beat Lincoln-Way Central 16-12 and lost to Maine South 19-9 and Bradley-Bourbonnais 8-5 for third.

Ruska (15 goals), Marrs (8 goals, 10 assists, 15 steals), Regan (7 goals, 4 assists, 10 steals) and Bieliauskas (29 saves, 7 assists) are among the early contributors.

S P O R T S

The Landmark, March 15, 2023

39

New RBHS girls coach looks to build water polo success Bulldogs return three starters from 2022 squad

By BILL STONE Contributing Reporter

New head coach Amy Frey began the Riverside-Brookfield High School girls water polo season March 11 with the stresses of a season-opening invitational but the support of many familiar faces.

As assistant coach the previous three seasons, Frey knows her roster well, which includes four seniors and three returning starters in senior Gem Sambugaro and juniors Priscilla Gil and goalie Edie Hamilton.

“I’ve coached most of them before, unless they’re new,” Frey said. “They have a lot of heart and they’re very good defensively. And they have great personalities

EDIE HAMILTON

GEM SAMBUGARO

and they’re easy to coach and work with.”

The Bulldogs (0-3) have just a varsity team this season. Other team members are seniors Claire Cervi, Madyn Dron and Katelyn Stowe, junior Lorelei Leimberer,

PRISCILLA GIL

sophomores Olivia Dobbe, Eleanor Glennie, Isabella Gonzalez, Eleanor Lenaghan and Riley Mulhall and freshmen Isabella Abernathy and Chloe Ivan.

“We’re just trying to build the program this year and focus

on that,” Frey said.

RBHS finished 8-19 in 2022 and lost to York 17-6 in the York Sectional semifinals. The Bulldogs graduated their three

2022 all-sectional players – first-team Gillian Dowling, second-team Alli Brand and honorable mention CeCe Rosa.

This season began with a sixth-place finish at the Hinsdale Central Tournament. The Bulldogs lost to St. Ignatius 8-3 for fifth after losing to eventual champion York 13-0 and Lincoln-Way West 14-6 in pool play.

“Our shooting, hopefully that we can [home] in on, that’s going to be good for us,” Frey said.

“Some of their goals are to be smarter about the game and know what their options are whenever they have the ball.

Some of my goals are for them to be successful when they have man-up situations and use those to our advantage.”

Lions boys water polo looks to reload after 3rd at state Just two starters return, but program stacked with players

By BILL STONE

attacker Sean Gripp are the only returning starters. Vlk made 236 saves in 2022 and Gripp had 20 goals and 32 assists, third on Junior and third-year starting goalie the team.

Senior center defender Louis Grib (9 Charlie Vlk has been through this scenario before with the Lyons Township High goals, 3 assists), senior Kieran Athy (6 goals, 4 assists), junior atSchool boys water polo team. tackers Luke Jackson (16 In 2022, the Lions had sevgoals, 12 assists) and Breneral question marks after dan Whelton (5 goals, 20 asgraduating most of their sists), junior center Michael lineup from the 2021 secondWall (12 goals, 3 assists) and place state lineup. They postjunior goalie Steven Stranded a 30-3 record and finished berg (64 saves) also saw sigthird for the program’s fourth nificant varsity action. consecutive top-three state Newcomers are juniors Mitrophy in the past four state chael Avakian, Sam Garvin, tournaments.

Sam Perez, Laine Tegan “That’s the one thing about and Josh Vander Wagen and this program and [LTHS sophomore Sami Rabah. coach Doug Eichstaedt]. He Last year, the Lions beat does a great job, building CHARLIE VLK Stevenson 12-11 in triple players when they’re young,” overtime for third in state afVlk said. ter losing to eventual chamThese Lions face the same pion New Trier 9-6 in the semifinals. dilemma.

“I’ve taken two losses in the state tourVlk, who was fourth-team all-state and second-team all-sectional, and senior left nament, so I know for me especially I’m Contributing Reporter

really looking to get a win this year and put it away,” Vlk said.

“My biggest goal [as a returnee] is to keep everybody focused and serious throughout the workouts. I feel as a goalie you can almost do it better because you’re kind of like the captain on the defensive side. You’re calling out switches and orienting the defense.”

Vlk is the only returnee among the Lions’ five postseason honored players.

Graduated are multiple first-team allstater Jack Bradbury, second-team allstaters Jimmy Bolan and AJ Vitek, and third-team all-sectional Matt Jablonski.

Eichstaedt was sectional coach of the year. Bradbury, Bolan and Vitek were the team’s top three scorers with 268 combined goals.

“Every year there’s opportunities for players to kind of step up to the different roles. Last year, we had arguably the best player in the state (Bradbury with 126 goals) but we relied a lot on him to score whereas I think the team this year will be more balanced,” Eichstaedt said.

“I know this group is going to work hard

and they’re very coachable,” Eichstaedt said. “They all understand and embrace the expectations. It’s a journey so trying to navigate it, stay positive. It’s kind of their turn to step up and take it.”

Another indication of the Lions’ success is having more than 50 players in the program -- the most that Eichstaedt can remember. Former LTHS boys water polo standout Victor Perez has been added as a junior varsity coach.

“That allows for more teamwork. It’s good opportunities for everyone to get more coaching and more experience,” Eichstaedt said. “Obviously the goal is to raise the level of play on all levels of the program.”

In their opening action on March 11, the Lions lost to Stevenson 12-8 in the championship game of the Stevenson Tournament after beating Whitney Young 10-2 and Fremd 15-5.

“I think our key to success will be learning to play together,” Vlk said. “I’ve never played with these guys my whole life, really. If we can learn to work together as a team, I think we’ll be good.”

40 The Landmark, March 15, 2023 Growing Community Media

Deadline is Monday at 5:00 p.m.

MARKETPLACE

GARAGE/MOVING SALE

BY PHONE: (708) 613-3333 | BY FAX: (708) 467-9066 BY E-MAIL: EMAIL@GROWINGCOMMUNITYMEDIA.ORG HOURS: 9:00 A.M.– 5:00 P.M. MON–FRI

HELP WANTED IT OPERATIONS SPECIALIST

HELP WANTED

The Village of Oak Park is seeking qualified candidates for the position of Human Resources Generalist in the Human Resources Department. This position will perform a variety of professional and technical functions in support human resource management including orientation, hiring, employee testing, classification analysis, compensation analysis and benefits administration.

Applicants are encouraged to visit the Village of Oak Park’s website http://www. oak-park.us/jobs. Position opened until filled.

PART-TIME ELECTRICIAN’S HELPER

Call for more info.

708-738-3848

The Village of Oak Park is seeking qualified candidates for the position of IT Operations Specialist. The ideal candidate is responsible for the effective operation of information technology services and support across the organization. The IT Operations Specialist serves as a technical expert for the implementation, maintenance and support of systems and networks. The IT Operations Specialist plans and carries out various complex assignments and develops new methods and approaches in a wide variety of IT specialties. Evaluates new and enhanced approaches to deliver IT services; test and optimize the functionality of systems, networks, and data; and define technical requirements. The IT Operations Specialist is responsible for providing various forms of computer-related technical assistance and improving the efficiency of the work of the staff through the use of technology. Interested and qualified applicants can visit our website at http://www.oakpark.us/ for more details.

VILLAGE OF RIVERSIDE SEASONAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

The Riverside Department of Public Works is seeking energetic, responsible, and motivated applicants who enjoy working outdoors. This is a part-time, seasonal position lasting from approximately May through September. Applicants will be expected to work up to 40 hrs. per week or as scheduled by staff. Primary tasks will include, but not limited to: cutting grass, maintaining athletic fields, general facilities maintenance, flushing hydrants, reading water meters, installing water meters, cleaning/televising sewers, assisting full-time employees, and other duties as assigned.

Applicants must be 18 years old, possess a valid Illinois driver’s license and high school diploma or equivalent. Applicants will be subject to a criminal background check, pre-employment physical and drug/ alcohol screening.

Applications can be downloaded from the Village website at www. riverside.il.us or picked up at the Riverside Village Hall located at 27 Riverside Rd, Riverside, IL 60546.

Completed applications should be submitted to the Riverside Village Hall or the Riverside Public Works Department, 3860 Columbus Blvd, Riverside, IL 60546. Applications will be accepted until all positions are filled. Pay rate is $18/hr.

The Village of Riverside is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Moving Sale!

Saturday March 18th. 8-1 Midcentury Modern Furniture, kitchen, what not 1146 S. Scoville,OP

CARS WANTED

COLLECTIVE IMPACT MANAGER

The Village of Oak Park is seeking qualified candidates for the position of Collective Impact Manager in the Village Manager’s Office. Under the general direction of the Chief Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Officer, the Collective Impact Manager will be responsible for building and assessing racial equity impact needs and developing a strategic plan to support those needs. This includes driving the initiatives focused on the Racial Equity Action Plan through community assessments, community engagement, data functions, and overall internal and external functions. Applicants are encouraged to apply online at https://secure.entertimeonline. com/ta/6141780.careers?ApplyToJob=537117711 or visit the Village of Oak Park’s website at http://www. oak-park.us/jobs. Interested and qualified applicants must complete a Village of Oak Park application. Open until filled.

Real Estate Acquisitions Associate (Chicago, IL) Conduct demographic analysis of secondary & tertiary mkts to identify potential real properties that meet the Co.’s acquisition criteria. Direct the acquisition process incl fin’l evaluation, negotiation, due diligence, investment structuring & bldg architectural planning. Provide fin’l forecasts & strategic budget plans for prospective acquisitions. Reqd: Master’s in Real Estate or Finance & 1-yr exp as Project Mgr in Real Estate or Architectural Dsgn industry & knowl of real estate capital mkt & proficiency in ARGUS & skilled at reading architectural plans. Mail Resume to: CapRock Management, 65 E Wacker Pl, #820, Chicago, IL 60601.

Operations Product Manager sought

by Chowbus, Inc. in Chicago, IL to be end2end owner of operations platform supporting internal tooling.

Telecommuting permitted in commutable distance to office. Reqs: MS in Managing Info Tech, Comp Sci or rltd field & 1 yr exp in job offd or rltd role.

Must also possess coursework or work exp w/data mining; info system dvlpmt; info security; & project mgmt.

Apply online at: https://www.chowbus.com/careers

CLASSICS WANTED CLASSICS WANTED Restored or Unrestored

or Unrestored Cars &Restored Vintage Motorcycles Domestic / Cars & Vintage Motorcycles Import Cars: Mercedes, Porsche, Corvette,Cars: Ferrari’s, Domestic / Import Jaguars, Muscle Cars, Mustang & Mopars Mercedes, Porsche, Corvette, $$ Top $$ all makes, Etc.

Ferrari’s, James Jaguars,• 630-201-8122 Muscle Cars, Collector Mustang & Mopars

$$ Top $$ allWANTED makes, Etc. CLASSICS WANTED TO BUY Collector James Restored or Unrestored Cars630-201-8122 & Vintage Motorcycles Domestic / Import Cars:

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

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Mercedes, Porsche, Corvette, Ferrari’s, Jaguars, Muscle Cars, R E N TA LS Mustang & Mopars

FOR RENT $$OFFICE/RETAIL Top $$ all makes, Etc.

Collector James

OAK PARK OFFICE CONDO FOR SALE OR LEASE

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900 sq ft 2 private and lge main office space List price 149,900 Lease 1,875 per mo.

Call Diane Marchetti 708.828.0000 @properties Christie’s International RE

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The Landmark, March 15, 2023 41

CLASSIFIED BY PHONE: (708) 613-3333 BY FAX: (708) 467-9066 BY E-MAIL: EMAIL@GROWINGCOMMUNITYMEDIA.ORG HOME SERVICES

CEMENT

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ELECTRICAL

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ELECTRICAL

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Ceiling Fans Let an American Veteran do your work Installed 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

FLOORS KLIS FLOORING INC.

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

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

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

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PAINTING CLASSIC PAINTING Fast & Neat Painting/Taping/Plaster Repair Low Cost • 708.749.0011

PROFESSIONAL CLEANING Maggie Professional Cleaning with 20 years experience, good references. Homes, Apartments, Condos and more.

Call or text for free estimates 773-584-8366

WOODWORK 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

NOVENAS PRAYER TO ST. JUDE May the Sacred Heart of Jesus be adored, glorified, loved & preserved throughout the world now & forever.

Sacred Heart of Jesus, pray for us.

St. Jude worker of miracles, pray for us. St. Jude helper of the hopeless, pray for us. Say this prayer 9 times a day for 9 days. By the 8th day your prayer will be answered. It has never been known to fail .Publication must be promised. Thank you Jesus.

Thank You St . Jude. R.R.

PUBLIC NOTICE SUMMONS (Family Law) CITACIÓN (Derecho familiar) CASE NUMBER (NÚMERO DE CASO): HF22130927 NOTICE TO RESPONDENT (Name): AVISO AL DEMANDADO (Nombre): ANGELO C GALLARDO You have been sued. Read the information below and on the next page.

Lo han demandado. Lea la información a continuación y en la página siguiente.

Petitioner’s name is: Nombre del demandante: MERCEDITA M. GALLARDO You have 30 calendar days after this Summons and Petition are served on you to file a Response (form FL-120) at the court and have a copy served on the petitioner. A letter, phone call, or court appearance will not protect you.

If you do not file your Response on time, the court may make orders affecting your marriage or domestic partnership, your property, and custody of your children. You may be ordered to pay support and attorney fees and costs.

PUBLIC NOTICES recibido o visto una copia de estas órdenes puede hacerlas acatar en cualquier lugar de California.

FEE WAIVER: If you cannot pay the filing fee, ask the clerk for a fee waiver form. The court may order you to pay back all or part of the fees and costs that the court waived for you or the other party.

EXENCIÓN DE CUOTAS: Si no puede pagar la cuota de presentación, pida al secretario un formulario de exención de cuotas. La corte puede ordenar que usted pague, ya sea en parte o por completo, las cuotas y costos de la corte previamente exentos a petición de usted o de la otra parte.

1. The name and address of the court are (El nombre y dirección de la corte son): SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA, 24405 AMADOR STREET, HAYWARD, CA 94544 - FAMILY LAW DIVISION 2. The name, address, and telephone number of the petitioner’s attorney, or the petitioner without an attorney, are: (El nombre, dirección y número de teléfono del abogado del demandante, o del demandante si no tiene abogado, son): SATNESH S. PRASAD, 607 LONGWOOD AVE., HAYWARD, CA 94541 Date (Fecha): OCT 21, 2022

For legal advice, contact a lawyer immediately. Get help finding a lawyer at the California Courts Online SelfHelp Center (www.courts.ca.gov/ selfhelp), at the

CHAD FINKE, Clerk, by (Secretario, por) SARAH GOUVEIA, Deputy (Asistente)

California Legal Services website (www.lawhelpca.org), or by contacting your local county bar association.

Published in the Wednesday Journal March 1, 8, 15, 22, 2023

Tiene 30 días de calendario después de haber recibido la entrega legal de esta Citación y Petición para presentar una Respuesta (formulario FL-120) ante la corte y efectuar la entrega legal de una copia al demandante. Una carta o llamada telefónica o una audiencia de la corte no basta para protegerlo.

Si no presenta su Respuesta a tiempo, la corte puede dar órdenes que afecten su matrimonio o pareja de hecho, sus bienes y la custodia de sus hijos. La corte también le puede ordenar que pague manutención, y honorarios y costos legales.

Para asesoramiento legal, póngase en contacto de inmediato con un abogado. Puede obtener información para encontrar un abogado en el Centro de Ayuda de las Cortes de California (www.sucorte.ca.gov), en el sitio web de los Servicios Legales de California (www.lawhelpca.org) o poniéndose en contacto con el colegio de abogados de su condado.

NOTICE—RESTRAINING ORDERS ARE ON PAGE 2: These restraining orders are effective against both spouses or domestic partners until the petition is dismissed, a judgment is entered, or the court makes further orders. They are enforceable anywhere in California by any law enforcement officer who has received or seen a copy of them.

AVISO—LAS ÓRDENES DE RESTRICCIÓN SE ENCUENTRAN EN LA PÁGINA 2: Las órdenes de restricción están en vigencia en cuanto a ambos cónyuges o miembros de la pareja de hecho hasta que se despida la petición, se emita un fallo o la corte dé otras órdenes. Cualquier agencia del orden público que haya

[SEAL]

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: Y23010237 on February 27, 2023 Under the Assumed Business Name of DOUG MCGOLDRICK PHOTOGRAPHY with the business located at: 1034 WISCONSIN AVENUE, OAK PARK, IL 60304. The true and real full name(s) and residence address of the owner(s)/partner(s) is: DOUG MCGOLDRICK 1034 WISCONSIN AVENUE, OAK PARK, IL 60304.

Published in Wednesday Journal March 1, 8, 15, 2023

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: Y23010231 on February 23, 2023 Under the Assumed Business Name of BTE MOBILE NOTARY SERVICES with the business located at: 5927 W. CHICAGO AVE, CHICAGO, IL 60651. The true and real full name(s) and residence address of the owner(s)/partner(s) is: ERIN WILLIAMS 5927 W. CHICAGO AVE, CHICAGO, IL 60651 Published in Wednesday Journal March 8, 15, 22, 2023

42 The Landmark, March 15, 2023

CLASSIFIED BY PHONE: (708) 613-3333 BY FAX: (708) 467-9066 BY E-MAIL: EMAIL@GROWINGCOMMUNITYMEDIA.ORG PUBLIC NOTICES PUBLIC NOTICE FIRST NATIONAL BANK OF BROOKFIELD NOTICE OF SPECIAL MEETING OF STOCKHOLDERS Notice is hereby given that, pursuant to call of its directors, a special meeting of stockholders of First National Bank of Brookfield (the “Bank”) will be held at the Bank’s main office located at 9136 Washington Avenue, Brookfield, Illinois, on April 19, 2023, at 2:00 p.m. to consider and vote whether an agreement and plan of reorganization, whereby a holding company, to be named Brookfield Bancshares, Inc., located in Brookfield, Illinois (the “Company”) would be created, making the Bank its wholly-owned subsidiary under the provisions of the laws of the United States, shall be ratified and confirmed, and to vote upon any other matters as may properly come before the meeting. A copy of the agreement and plan of reorganization, approved by a majority of the directors of the Bank and the proposed holding company, is on file at the institution and may be inspected during business hours.

First National Bank of Brookfield Phillip Richard President and Chief Executive Officer Published in RB Landmark March 15, 22, 29, April 5, 2023

PUBLIC NOTICES

PUBLIC NOTICES

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING VILLAGE OF OAK PARK ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS CALENDAR NUMBER: 03-23-Z HEARING DATE: April 5, 2023 TIME: 7:00 p.m. or as soon thereafter as the Agenda permits LOCATION OF HEARING: Room 201 (Council Chambers), Oak Park Village Hall, 123 Madison Street, Oak Park, Illinois, 60302 APPLICATION: The Zoning Board of Appeals (“ZBA”) will conduct a public hearing on a special use permit application filed by the Applicant, Mel Garland, on behalf of Think Big Academy, to operate a day care center pursuant to Section 8.3 (Table 8-1: Use Matrix) of the Oak Park Zoning Ordinance at the property located at 845-847 Madison Street, Oak Park, Illinois, Property Index Numbers 16-18106-012-0000 (“Subject Property”) in the MS Madison Street Zoning District.

A copy of the application and applicable documents are on file and are available for inspection at Village Hall, Development Customer Services Department, 123 Madison Street, Oak Park, Illinois 60302, Monday through Friday between 8:30 a.m. and 5:00 p.m.

All interested persons will be given an opportunity to be heard at the public hearing. Interested persons may also sign up to participate in-person in the hearing to cross examine the applicant and its witnesses by submitting a crossexamination form or by emailing Zoning@oak-park.us before 5:00 PM on the day prior to the public hearing.

The public hearing may be adjourned by the ZBA to another date without further notice by public announcement at the hearing setting forth the time and place thereof.

Published in Wednesday Journal, March 15, 2023

PUBLIC NOTICES

PUBLIC NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICE The Village of Oak Park will receive sealed Bids from qualified contractors at the Public Works Center, 201 South Blvd., Oak Park, IL 60302 Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. local time until 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, April 5, 2023 for the following: Village of Oak Park CDBG Water Service Replacement Program - 2023 Bid Number: 23-114

Bid forms may be obtained from the Village of Oak Park website, http:// www.oak-park.us/bid. Bid documents may be viewed at the Public Works Customer Service Center at 201 South Boulevard, Oak Park, Illinois between the hours of 7:30 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. Information is also available from the contact person, Water and Sewer Project Manager, James Eggen, jeggen@oak-park.us. This project has a mandatory Pre-Bid Meeting requirement. The Pre-Bid Meeting will be held at The Public Works Customer Service Center on Tuesday, March 28, 2023 at 10:30 A.M. All bidders will be required to submit Bid Security in the form of a Certified Check, a Cashier’s Check or a Bid Bond in the amount of Ten percent (10%) of the Base Bid, payable to the Village of Oak Park.

The successful bidder will be required to post performance security and to provide a certificate of insurance as set forth in the bid package. This contract shall be subject to the provisions of the Prevailing Wage Act (820 ILCS130/1 et seq.) to the extent required by law. This is a Federally-funded project, funded with Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds and is thus subject to all applicable Federal rules, regulations and guidelines, including Davis-Bacon and Related Acts. The Village of Oak Park reserves the right to issue proposal documents and specifications only to those vendors deemed qualified. For more information call the Public Works Service Center at 708.358.5700.

Published in Wednesday Journal, March 15, 2023

PUBLIC NOTICE The Village of Oak Park will receive bids from qualified pest control service providers for pest management services at Village buildings.

Bids will be accepted at the Public Works Service Center, 201 South Boulevard, Oak Park, Illinois 60302, or via e-mail at fgutierrez@oak-park. us until 11:00 a.m. local time on Friday, March 31st, 2023.

Request for Bids RFB 23-118 - Village of Oak Park Pest Control Services Issuance Date: 3/15/23 Bid forms may be obtained by calling 708-358-5714 or by e-mailing fgutierrez@oak-park.us between the hours of 7:30 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. M-F. The Village of Oak Park reserves the right to issue proposal documents and specifications only to those contractors deemed qualified. No proposal documents will be issued after 4:00 p.m. on the working day preceding the date of proposal opening.

THE VILLAGE OF OAK PARK

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING VILLAGE OF OAK PARK ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS CALENDAR NUMBER: 06-23-Z HEARING DATE: April 5, 2023 TIME: 7:00 p.m. or as soon thereafter as the Agenda permits LOCATION OF HEARING: Room 201 (Council Chambers), Oak Park Village Hall, 123 Madison Street, Oak Park, Illinois, 60302 APPLICATION: The Zoning Board of Appeals (“Board”) will conduct a public hearing on a special use permit application filed by the Applicant, SunFlower/Acupressure Massage Spa, to operate a massage service establishment pursuant to Section 8.3 (“Table 8-1: Use Matrix) of the Oak Park Zoning Ordinance at the property located at 6340 Roosevelt Road, Oak Park, Illinois, Property Index Number 16-17-324-035-0000, in the RR Roosevelt Road Form-Based Zoning District.

A copy of the application and applicable documents are on file and are available for inspection at Village Hall, Development Customer Services Department, 123 Madison Street, Oak Park, Illinois 60302, Monday through Friday between 8:30 a.m. and 5:00 p.m.

All interested persons will be given an opportunity to be heard at the public hearing. Interested persons may also sign up to participate in-person in the hearing to cross examine the applicant and its witnesses by submitting a crossexamination form or by emailing Zoning@oak-park.us before 5:00 PM on the day prior to the public hearing.

The public hearing may be adjourned by the ZBA to another date without further notice by public announcement at the hearing setting forth the time and place thereof.

Published in Wednesday Journal, March 15, 2023

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING VILLAGE OF OAK PARK ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS CALENDAR NUMBER: 07-23-Z HEARING DATE: April 5, 2023 TIME: 7:00 p.m. or as soon thereafter as the Agenda permits LOCATION OF HEARING: Room 201 (Council Chambers), Oak Park Village Hall, 123 Madison Street, Oak Park, Illinois, 60302 APPLICATION: The Zoning Board of Appeals (“Board”) will conduct a public hearing on a special use permit application filed by the Applicant, Christopher Bell, to operate a live performance venue (Comedy Plex LLC) pursuant to Section 8.3 (Table 8-1: Use Matrix) of the Oak Park Zoning Ordinance at the property located at 1128 Lake Street, Oak Park, Illinois, Property Index Number16-08-118-0031-0000 (“Subject Property”) in the DT Downtown Zoning District.

Published in Wednesday Journal March 15, 2023

A copy of the application and applicable documents are on file and are available for inspection at Village Hall, Development Customer Services Department, 123 Madison Street, Oak Park, Illinois 60302, Monday through Friday between 8:30 a.m. and 5:00 p.m.

All interested persons will be given an opportunity to be heard at the public hearing. Interested persons may also sign up to participate in-person in the hearing to cross examine the applicant and its witnesses by submitting a crossexamination form or by emailing Zoning@oak-park.us before 5:00 PM on the day prior to the public hearing.

The public hearing may be adjourned by the Board to another date without further notice by public announcement at the hearing setting forth the time and place thereof.

REAL ESTATE FOR SALE

REAL ESTATE FOR SALE

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT - CHANCERY DIVISION NATIONSTAR MORTGAGE LLC; Plaintiff, vs.

JOHN PRABHAKAR PULUKURI; 929 OAK PARK CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION; BANK OF AMERICA, NA; UNKNOWN OWNERS AND NONRECORD CLAIMANTS; Defendants, 22 CH 5256 NOTICE OF SALE PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above entitled cause Intercounty Judicial Sales Corporation will on Monday, April 17, 2023 at the hour of 11 a.m. in their office at 120 West Madison Street, Suite 718A, Chicago, Illinois, sell at public auction to the highest bidder for cash, as set forth below, the following described mortgaged real estate: P.I.N. 16-18-307-034-1008.

Commonly known as 929 South Oak Park Avenue, Unit 2SW, Oak Park, IL 60304.

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

For information call Law Clerk at Plaintiff’s Attorney, The Wirbicki Law Group, 33 West Monroe Street, Chicago, Illinois 60603. (312) 360-9455.

W22-0188 ADC INTERCOUNTY JUDICIAL SALES CORPORATION intercountyjudicialsales.com I3215203

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

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

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

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

To complain of discrimination, call HUD toll free at: 1-800-669-9777.

GROWING COMMUNITY MEDIA

Starting a New Business?

Published in Wednesday Journal, March 15, 2023

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 • OakPark.com • RBLandmark.com • ForestParkReview.com • AustinWeeklyNews.com • VFPress.news

PublicNoticeIllinois.com

Publish Your Assumed Name Legal Notice in • Austin Weekly News • Village Free Press • Wednesday Journal • Forest Park Review • Riverside/Brookfield Landmark Call the Experts Before You Place Your Legal Ad! Contact Kamil for details: kamil@growingcommunitymedia.org

The Landmark, March 15, 2023

North Riverside

Meet Your Candidates

Live and in person

Candidates for North Riverside Village Trustee

Deborah Czajka

Jose Del Angel

Joseph Maruska

Sandra Greicius

Nicholas Tricoci

Marybelle Mandel

Antonio Santucci

Wednesday, March 22 • 7pm North Riverside Village Commons • 2401 Desplaines Ave., North Riverside

PRESENTED BY:

Find complete election coverage at RBLandmark.com

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The Landmark, March 15, 2023

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

ON SO W NE

G TIN LIS

W NE

G TIN S I L

W NE

E IC PR

258 Nuttall Rd, Riverside

6148 S Woodlawn Ave, 3B, Brookfield $239,900

2333 W Saint Paul Ave, #128, Chicago $345,000

7915 Massasoit Ave, Burbank $2,100/mo

1516 S Wabash Ave, #902, Chicago $465,000

465 Northgate Ct, Riverside $450,000

320 Nuttall Rd, Riverside $1,100,000

1510 Franklin Ave, River Forest $750,000

2558 5th Ave, North Riverside $500,000

1519 William St, River Forest $697,000

AL CI R E MM O C

1568 Aberdeen Ct, Naperville $319,000

308 Nuttall Rd, Riverside $500,000

380 Herrick Rd, Riverside $459,999

7722 Madison St, River Forest $18/sq ft

T LO T N CA VA

4534 Arthur Ave, Brookfield $169,900

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

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

EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY