Landmark_061825 by Wednesday Journal

Newborn dolphin dies at Brook eld Zoo

e calf was born June 7 and died June 11

By TRENT BROWN Staff Reporter

A four-day-old dolphin calf Zoo Chicago died suddenly We 11, the zoo announced.

“This is a devastating loss community, especially the animal veterinary teams who dedicate their li the well-being of animals in our care Rita Stacey, the zoo’s vice president of grams and impact, in a written statement. “While the calf was progressing phin [newbor ns] face immense biolo challenges. We are deeply saddened sudden passing.”

The zoo said in a press release it is waiting for a necropsy to deter mine the dolphi cause of death.

The calf was born at 12:22 a.m. on Satur day, June 7, to Allie, a 38-year dolphin, and was the first dolphin bo zoo since 2014.

The newborn had been under 24-hour observation by zoo animal ers and veterinarians when “staf witnessed a rapid, unexpected calf ’s behavior Wednesday ev said. The calf died just minutes later

Through its four days of life, the ba tlenose was meeting all expected milestones Stacey said, including nursing from Allie and “slipstreaming,” or resting while being carried in the currents of her swimming Zoo officials have not released a name for the late dolphin, though they were expected to announce one this summer.

Allie (center) and her calf (bottom) swam around just moments a er the calf was born June 7. Tapeko (top), anoth er dolphin mother, was present to suppor t Allie through the bir th.

Business owners react to Grand Boulevard roadwork

Construction from April to gust means fewer patrons, some proprietors say

By TRENT BROWN Staff Reporter

hether you frequent downtown Brookfield only driven through, you’ve likely noticed the construction along Grand Boulevard. pril 21, northwest-bound traffic on the lock of Grand has been rerouted, and the daytime parking has been closed, to ccommodate the work of digging up road, reidewalks, installing brick pavers and re planting trees

For seven and a half weeks, construction crews did work on the northeast side of the road. Last

Family business brings ice cream to 8 Corners area

La Flor Michoacana will open by Sept. 1, the owner says

By TRENT BROWN Staff Reporter

Two decades ago, Saul Soto’s uncle, Cris Romero, opened a store selling Mexican candy. Five years later, Romero bought an ice cream shop, learned how to create the sweet treat from the seller, and La Flor Michoacana was born

Now, with Romero having expanded the business to locations in Chicago’s West Town neighborhood, Melrose Park, Villa Park and soon, Oak Park, Soto is preparing to take charge of the location coming to Brookfield at 9211 Broadway Ave. near Eight Corners.

Soto said he convinced his uncle that they should own a new location rather than leasing it, like they do in their other locations.

“That’s when I was looking in Brookfield, and I really liked Eight Corners,” he said. “I liked the activity, and Brookfield, in general, is a great neighborhood.”

He said they’ve been working with the First National Bank of Brookfield to finance the location and that Romero has been showing him the ropes of how to run his own business. So far, it’s been a lot of work with the village to ensure the location is up to code before a contractor can tur n it into their next ice cream shop, Soto said.

While this is Soto’s first time running a shop, he said becoming an entrepreneur runs in his family. His uncle, of course, started La Flor Michoacana, and Soto said his parents have owned small businesses for much of his life, from a cell phone store to a shoe store.

“It’ll be my first business, and I’m really excited for the opportunity. Hopefully, it’ll last a lifetime, and we can bring everything that I know from my uncle into the community.”

Soto said he chose Brookfield due to growing up in the region. As a graduate of Morton West High School in Berwyn, he said he knew students who attended Riverside

Brookfield High School.

“Even up to now, I know a couple of people that live in the Brookfield area, LaGrange Park area, LaGrange,” he said. “Originally, I went, and I saw that there was only one similar shop … It’s also an ice cream shop, but I don’t believe they sell the extras.”

While the other shop is even named similarly — La Michoacana de Brookfield at 9102 31st Street — Soto’s “extras” will, include candy, of course, alongside sweet corn elotes, fried chicharrónes, or pork rinds, and even yogurt dishes, too

Soto said he was excited by the location he had chosen because of the proximity to other businesses and community spaces, including S. E. Gross Middle School.

“I like that there’s a bunch of public parking as well. I expect that the business would

be like an in-and-out type of business. So, people come in, get their ice creams or whatever product they’re going to buy, and they leave We will be having some seating, but it will be limited,” Soto said. “I kind of scoped out the area, and I’m like, I think this place would be great.”

Soto said he’s currently working with architects and contractors to ensure he has the proper permits for work that needs to be done. His goal is to open the store by Aug. 1, but he said the store would open no later than Sept. 1 if they miss the August date

“We’re pretty excited to be opening in Brookfield, and we’re hoping that we could make a difference with our ice cream,” he said. “We’re hoping to get open; that way, we could be part of the community and start serving everyone.”

Cahillane, Steve Edwards, Judy Gre n, Horacio Mendez, Charles Meyerson, Darnell Shields, Audra Wilson

Brook eld OKs sidewalk impr

About 7,550 feet of sidewalk will be replaced by mid-September

By TRENT BROWN Staff Reporter

If the roadwork on Grand Boulevard wasn’t enough for you, get ready for more improvements to public infrastructure.

Brookfield trustees on June 9 approved a contract with Davis Concrete Construction Company, a firm based in Alsip and Monee, to replace sidewalks in town later this year

Lauren Moore, the village’s director of public works, said about 7,550 square feet of sidewalk will be replaced. The affected streets will include stretches of Rockefeller, Parkview, Arden, McCormick, Washington, Brookfield, Rosemear, Woodside, Riverside, Morton, Prairie and Arthur avenues, Moore said in an email to the Landmark. She said work could start in June or July. No official state date has been named, but the

village expects the construction to be complete by Sept. 12.

“These guys, they move pretty fast, so the only thing, really, that’s going to affect that is weather conditions,” she said.

Davis was one of five construction companies to submit a bid for the project. Davis’s offer came in at $91,714, about $10,000 lower than the next-lowest bidder and well below Brookfield’s engineer’s estimate of $133,775.

Moore said there are multiple reasons the village goes out to bid for sidewalk replacement projects each year.

“It’s aesthetics; it does look really nice when your sidewalks look nice and clean,” she said. “In Brookfield, it’s more safetyfocused than it is aesthetics-focused. Just taking good care of the things that belong to us and keeping on a program, on a rotation, so that, 10 years from now … certain areas aren’t being ne glected. Everything is getting touched on at some point.”

She said the sidewalks that are ultimately replaced each year are chosen with discretion from the public works team.

“It could be based on SeeClickFix reports

Hancock’s, that come across something, or there’s been a project. We could have taken some sidewalk squares out to repair a water main break months ago, or a driveway apron needed to be pulled up, and we’re throwing that in there,” she said. “It’s stuff that comes up for maintenance and repair or [is] reported as a hazard.”

Moore said some sidewalks may be added to the list after a village employee decides it

“Even our own guys may find they did come across something that they feel should be written up and assessed. They can assess it themselves, or they refer it to the foreman to make that decision ultimately, but it’s kind of a team effort,” she said. “There are multiple people who have their eyes on it to make sure we’re not missing anything, especially those really hazardous sidewalk squares with a lip you could trip on.”

YEAR-ROUND TAX PLANNING POINTERS FOR TAXPAYERS

ere are some simple things taxpayers can do throughout the year to make filing season less stressful.

Organize tax records: Create a system that keeps all important information together. Taxpayers can use a software program for electronic recordkeeping or store paper documents in clearly labeled folders. They should add tax records to their files as they receive them. Organized records will make tax return preparation easier and may help taxpayers discover overlooked deductions or credits.

Identify filing status: A taxpayer’s filing status determines their filing requirements, standard deduction, eligibility for certain credits and the correct amount of tax they should pay. If more than one filing status applies to a taxpayer, they can get help choosing the best one for their tax situation with the IRS’s Interactive Tax Assistant, What Is My Filing Status. Changes in family lifemarriage, divorce, birth and death - may affect a

person’s tax situation, including their filing status and eligibility for certain tax credits and deductions.

Check withholding: Since federal taxes operate on a pay-as-you-go basis, taxpayers need to pay most of their tax as they earn income. Taxpayers should check that they’re withholding enough from their pay to cover their taxes owed, especially if their personal or financial situations change during the year. To check withholding, taxpayers can use the IRS Withholding Estimator. If they want to change their tax withholding, taxpayers should provide their employer with an updated Form W-4.

By Linda Sokol Francis. E.A.

Danny Davis to those waiting to replace

him: ‘People get ready’

Rep. La Shawn Ford and others explore running if Davis retires from Congress

By BILL DWYER Contributing Reporter

As speculation swirls around the intentions of long-time incumbent. Rep. Danny K. Davis to run or not for a 16th term in Congress, Davis has a suggestion for those hoping to re place him.

“There’s a song by the Impressions,” Davis said, “People Get Ready.” Get ready, Davis said, not just to replace him, but to show a clear track record of working for those who would elect them.

Davis is expected to announce a decision “probably in the new few weeks,” he said.

When Davis spoke with The Landmark Friday morning, he was asked about one of those people, Illinois State Rep. LaShawn K. Ford (D-8), who has for mally registered as a candidate for the 7th District seat.

The Illinois congressional district covers parks of Cook County including Oak Park, Forest Park, River Forest and much of the West Side.

Ford, who has served in the Illinois House since 2007, filed a statement of organization with the Federal Elections Commission on May 21. He’s retained the election compliance firm of Acuity Politics, LLC, in Washington D.C.

Ford described his registration as the initial part of an exploratory effort. He made it clear that he will only proceed with his plans if Davis is not running.

“I haven’t made an official announcement,” Ford said last Tuesday. “This is all in case the congressman retires.”

He added: “I’m excited about the possibility of running. But if Congressman Davis decides to run, I’ll support him.”

Ford said he is also gathering commitments of financial support and endorsements

“I’m talking to supporters and I’m doing my best to put together a team,” said Ford, who added that his first focus remained constituent services

“Building coalitions with politicians is secondary. My goal is to make the case that I’ll always be there for the people. You have to stay

focused on the constituents in the district.

“Re-entry (into society), expungement, healthcar tals, these are the heart he said.

Others currently listed didates for the 7th son Friedman, a in April, and John McComb rine and aspiring who filed in early Ma

Jerico J. Brown of tor, has filed as an inde

Davis mulls pros and cons

Davis is clear about the reasons why he should retire. He is also clear about the reasons he should r un for re-election. Those dueling realities flavor his speech with caveats.

He says he is talking to a number of people, including those who have supported him through the years, to his doctors, and to many everyday people who he insists are and have always been his reason for serving, as a Chicago alderman, as a county commissioner, and as a cong ressman.

“I will make a decision probably in the next few weeks,” he said Friday, following a busy and particularly eventful week in Washington. “There are a number of things I’m looking at.”

Among those are his age. He is in his 15th term in Cong ress and will be 85 when the new Cong ress is seated. He said he feels fortunate to have remained healthy enough to do the work

“I’m no spring chicken,” he acknowledged. “Most people my age retired years ago.”

“I’m talking to people who have supported me,” he said. “I’m also talking to my physicians. And I’m talking to people.”

The work he’s doing, he said, is more important than ever

“These are real critical times for America. There are people urging me to run again for (numerous) reasons,” he said.”

Davis pointed to his position on the powerful House Ways and Means Committee, where he spent much of his day on Wednesday. It deals with all legislation before the House, and members of Cong ress wait years to be appointed to the committee, let alone gain seniority on it

Davis and Ford take on Trump

During interviews with Cong. Danny K. Davis and State Rep. La Shawn Ford about their plans to seek the 7th District cong ressional seat in 2026, they each of fered their takes on recent actions by President Donald Trump.

“This is heavy-handedness,” Davis said of Trump’s response to peaceful protest demonstrations against his polices and actions. “People in this country believe in the right to protest. Our country was founded on protest.”

Davis said he was deeply concerned at the Trump administration’s demonstrated unwillingness to use established

While another candidate can replace Davis and take his seat in Cong ress, what they cannot do is replace his seniority. And that issue appears to be playing a major role in Davis’s thinking as he moves toward a decision on whether to seek another ter m.

“I’m a senior member of Cong ress, not just a member,” he said.

“If I don’t run, people like LaShawn Ford will. I think they’d do well to establish an exploratory committee.”

Reiterating his “get ready” counsel, Davis said anyone looking to replace him should earn it. “They should be talking to the people, listening to the people, serving the people,” he said. “That’s how you get elected. If they do that, they’ll get elected.”

Davis acknowledged Ford’s 17 years in the Illinois General Assembly. Since the 2020 redistricting, Ford has represented

gover nment mechanisms to respond to dif ferences of opinion.

“You work cooperatively with others to change the law,” he said. “That’s not what I see the president doing, not what I see ICE doing, not what I see DHS doing.”

Ford said, “I definitely believe in protecting democracy. I don’t believe the current president respects democracy and the Constitution.”

Addressing last Saturday’s No Kings protests, Ford said, “The only way we’ll protect democracy is to stand up against (what Trump is doing).”

South Austin, southern sections of Oak Park and Forest Park, southern Broadview and part of La Grange.

Davis invited Ford to appear for an extended period of time on his last Zoom townhall on June 1, where Ford gave his overview of the recently concluded state legislative session.

“He’s certainly got the experience. He’s done good work,” Davis said.

Ford speaks like a man looking to carry on a tradition and continue a le gacy. Davis, he said, “is an example of a representative for the people. Danny Davis has his finger on the pulse of the community.”

“I feel I have that same philosophy. I’m trying to earn his support,” Ford said. “We have a lot of relationship in doing community work. I hope our relationship car ries over into an endorsement.”

JESSICA MOR DACQ

Rep. La Shaw n Ford and Congressman Danny Davis at Billy Goat Tavern & Grill’s near West Side location on Aug. 20, 2024.

Dominican University ends admissions to its theater arts major

Declining enrollment makes program ‘unsustainable’

By HOPE BAKER Contributing Reporter

The future of theater arts at Dominican University is uncertain. As of January 2025, the university no longer admits new theater arts majors or minors, but courses and production opportunities will continue throughout the 2025-2026 academic year.

Krista Hansen, chair and professor of Dominican’s theater arts program, said the university has paused admittance to the program at this juncture.

“Since the pandemic, enrollments in the program ha been very low and it’s just become unsustainable,” Hansen said. “I saw this coming and tried to do what I could to offset it, but this is the situation we’re in.”

Hansen, who has been a full-time faculty member at Dominican for 22 years, said many factors have contributed to the program’s decline and include issues on the campus level as well as local, state and national headwinds. However, ef for ts are underway by a committed group of faculty and staf f to preserve theater in some form at the university.

“Theater arts as a standalone program is probably not going to move forward in the same way that it did before but I think there’s enough interdisciplinary activity and interest on campus to keep theater in the curriculum and keep theater as part of the community,” Hansen said.

Part of the curriculum for theater arts majors and minors, the Theatre Arts Lab Series consists of three student productions per year: a classical play, a contemporary pl and a musical. This gives students the chance to work on a wide variety of genres, time periods and styles over the course of a single season.

Those three productions, which have yet to be announced, will still take place during the 2025-2026 school year.

According to Hansen, all students are welcome to participate in productions at Dominican, re gardless of their major or minor.

“Theater and the arts should be shared, so I’ve always tried to encourage everyone to participate in some way if they can,” she said. “I truly believe in the arts as a transformative learning approach.”

Hansen said the skills that students learn during their time in Dominican’s theater program are invaluable.

“One of the things that I find incredibly rewarding are the alums who tell me about how they c ontinue to use the skills, and how they c ontinue to p ut theater and the elements of theater i nto their live s, whether or not they ’re wo rk ing in the arts,” she said. “I’ve always b een a cheerleader of the skills that theater provides over eve rything else.”

In spite of the changes that are occurring, Hansen said she will continue to try to teach students through the arts at Dominican.

“Theater is important,” she said. “So how do we keep that going even if the program itself doesn’t function or look the same? Right now, there are a lot of questions to be answered.”

COURTESY OF DOMINICAN UNIVERSITY

Dominican University main campus.

Landscape Workday June 28, 9AM-Noon Longcommon

Help beautify Riverside’s green spaces. Look for Riverside Public Works dump truck. Come for an hour or three. Supervised children welcome. Service hour credits available. Bring work gloves and your water bottle. All other supplies and snacks provided. Visit website for details or email workdays@olmstedsociety.org

Walking Tour June 29 2-4 PM

Docent-led tour explores Riverside’s history and its architecture south of the tracks. See website for more details or email tours@olmstedsociety.org

LEGAL NOTICE

VILLAGE Of RIVERSIDE ANNUAL DRINKING WATER QUALITY REPORT FOR CALENDAR YEAR 2024

The Village of Riverside is committed to providing the highest quality drinking water to our residents and businesses. Our water is frequently sampled according to strict Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulations. This report will inform you about the source, quality, and safety of our drinking water. The report will not be mailed, but will be published in the June 19, 2024 edition of the Landmark Newspaper.

The Village of Riverside is committed to providing the highest quality drinking water to our residents and businesses. Our water is frequently sampled according to strict Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulations. This report will inform you about the source, quality, and safety of our drinking water. The report will not be mailed but will be published in the June 18, 2025 edition of the Landmark Newspaper.

WATER SOURCE

The City of Chicago utilizes Lake Michigan as its source water via two water treatment plants. The Jardine Water Purification Plant serves the northern areas of the City and suburbs, while the Sawyer Water Purification Plant serves the southern areas of the City and suburbs. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has found that the quality of Lake Michigan water has improved dramatically over the past thirty years. The Village of Riverside purchases surface water from the Village of McCook, which in turn purchases surface water from the City of Chicago.

WATER QUALITY CONTROL & TESTING

The City of Chicago water treatment facility controls the quality of water supplied to the Village of McCook and the Village of Riverside. Chicago adds chemicals to the water for disinfection purposes, to settle out impurities, and to prevent lead leaching. Chicago also adds carbon to remove odors and adds fluoride for teeth. The Village of Riverside monitors and adjusts chlorine to maintain safe drinking water on a daily basis. The Village also samples the water for various requirements mandated by the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency on a monthly basis.

VIOLATIONS

The Village of Riverside is proud to have met or exceeded all federal and state standards for drinking water for the calendar year 2024.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

If you should have any questions regarding the attached report or the quality of water in the Village of Riverside, please do not hesitate to contact Public Works Water Superintendent Dan Williams at the Village of Riverside (708) 442-3590, or call the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (IEPA) Safe Drinking Water Hotline at (800) 426-4791. Residents are encouraged to voice concerns, ask questions, and participate in decisions that may affect the quality of the water, etc. at the Village Board meetings held on the 1st and 3rd Thursdays of each month at 6:30 pm at the Riverside Village Hall. The Village of Riverside has available upon request this year’s Consumer Confidence Report (CCR). The CCR includes basic information on the source(s) of your drinking water, the levels of any contaminants that were detected in the water during 2024, and compliance with other drinking water rules, as well as some educational materials. The CCR will not be mailed out to property owners. To obtain a free copy of the report, please call Riverside Public Works Water Department at 708-442-3590, or you may pick the report up at Village Hall, 27 Riverside Road, Riverside, IL or Riverside Public Works, 3860 Columbus Blvd., Riverside, IL.

DEFINITION OF TERMS/TABLE FOOTNOTES

• MCLG – Maximum Contaminant Level Goal – The level of a contaminant in drinking water below which there is no known or expected risk to health.

• MCL – Maximum Contaminant Level – The highest level of a contaminant that is allowed in drinking water. MCL is set as close to the MCL Goals as is feasible using the best available treatment technology.

• TT – Treatment Technique – A required process intended to reduce the level of a contaminant in drinking water.

• Level Found – Represents an average of sample result data collected during the calendar year.

• Range of Detection – Represents a range of individual sample results from lowest to highest in a calendar year

• Sodium – There is no state or federal MCL for sodium. Monitoring is required to provide information to consumers and health officials concerned about sodium intake due to dietary precautions. If the level were greater than 20mg/L, people on a sodium-restricted diet should consult a physician.

• Fluoride – Fluoride is added to the water supply to help promote strong teeth. The Illinois Department of Health recommends an optimal fluoride range of 0.9 mg/l to 1.2mg/l.

• %<0.5 NTU – Percent samples less than 0.5 NTU

• ppm – Parts per million or milligrams per liter

• ppb – Parts per billion or micrograms per liter

• Turbidity – A measure of the cloudiness of water. Turbidity is monitored because it is a good indicator of water quality and the effectiveness of the treatment process.

• AL – Action Level – The concentration of a contaminant which, whenexceeded, triggers treatment or other requirements which a water system must follow.

• Lead – Infants and young children are typically more vulnerable to lead in drinking water than the general population. It is possible that lead levels at your home may be higher than other homes in the community as a result of materials used in your home’s plumbing. If you are concerned about elevated levels in your home’s water, you may wish to have your water tested and flush your tap for 30 seconds to 2 minutes before using tap water. Additionalinformation is available from the Safe Drinking Water Hotline (800-426-4791).

• Unregulated Contamination – A maximum contaminant level (MCL) for this contaminant has not been established by either the state or federal regulations, nor has mandatory health effects language. The purpose for monitoring this contaminant is to assist USEPA in determining the occurrence of unregulated contaminants in drinking water, and whether future regulation is warranted.

• n/a – not applicable

• nd – not detected

• % pos/mo – Percentage of positive samples per month.

• NTU – Nephhelometric Turbidity Units

Copper and Lead Collection Date: 8/31/2023

Copper and Lead

Riverside (IL #0312670) 2024 Regulated Contaminants Detected

Definitions: Action Level (AL): The concentration of a contaminant which, if exceeded, triggers treatment or other requirements which a water system must follow.

Copper and Lead

Collection Date: 8/31/2023

Action Level Goal (ALG): The level of a contaminant in drinking water below which there is no known or expected risk to health. ALG’s allow for a margin of safety.

Copper Range: ___<3.0_____ to ____470 ug/l____ Lead Range: ___<1.0____ to ___7.8 ug/l____

Definitions: Action Level (AL): The concentration of a contaminant which, if exceeded, triggers treatment or other requirements which a water system must follow. Action Level Goal (ALG): The level of a contaminant in drinking water below which there is no known or expected risk to health. ALG's allow for a margin of safety. Copper Range: ___<3.0_____ to ____470 ug/l____ Lead

: __<1.0____ to ___7.8 ug/l____

The Village of Riverside conducts Lead and Copper testing in accordance with Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (IEPA) regulations. Results from the 2023 testing were provided directly to the property owners at the sampled addresses. In addition, the results are publicly available in the Village’s annual Consumer Confidence Report (CCR).

For more information regarding the 2023 Lead and Copper testing results, please contact the Riverside Public Works Department at (708) 442-3590.

of natural deposits

systems; Erosion of natural deposits

If present, elevated levels of lead can cause serious health problems, especially for pregnant women and young children. Lead in drinking water is primarily from materials and components associated with service lines and home plumbing. The Village of Riverside is responsible for providing quality drinking water, but cannot control the variety of materials used in plumbing components. When your water has been sitting for several hours, you can minimize the potential for lead exposure by flushing your tap for 30 seconds to 2 minutes before using water for drinking or cooking. If you are concerned about lead in your water, you may wish to have your water tested. Information on lead in drinking water, testing methods, and steps you can take to minimize exposure is available from the Safe Drinking Water Hotline at (800) 426-4791 or at http://www.epa.gov/safewater/lead

of materials used in plumbing components. When your water has been sitting for several hours, you can minimize the potential for lead exposure by flushing your tap for 30 seconds to 2 minutes before using water for drinking or cooking. If you are concerned about lead in your water, you may wish to have your water tested. Information on lead in drinking water, testing methods, and steps you can take to minimize exposure is available from the Safe Drinking Water Hotline at (800) 426-4791 or at http://www.epa.gov/safewater/lead

Service Line Material Inventory

In compliance with applicable regulatory requirements, the Village of Riverside provides access to the most current service line material inventory through the following resources:

1. Village of Riverside Online Dashboard Accessible via the following link: https://www.arcgis.com/apps/dashboards/52d18a81e7ba46b3829a00cdc956e567

2. Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (IEPA) Lead Service Line Information available at: https://epa.illinois.gov/topics/drinking-water/public-water-users/lead-service-line-information.html

These resources provide the most up-to-date information regarding the materials used in service lines throughout the Village, in accordance with state and federal lead service line transparency initiatives.

Water Quality Test Results

Regulated Contaminants

Definitions: The following tables contain scientific terms and measures, some of which may require explanation. Regulatory compliance with some MCLs are based on running annual average of monthly samples. A Level 1 assessment is a study of the water system to identify potential problems and determine (if possible) why total coliform bacteria has been found in our water system. A Level 2 assessment is a very detailed study of the water system to identify potential problems and determine (if possible) why an E. coli MCL violation has occurred and/or why the total coliform bacteria have been found in our water system on multiple occasions. Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL): The highest level of a contaminant that is allowed in drinking water. MCLs are set as close to the Maximum Contaminant Level Goal as feasible using the best available treatment technology. Maximum Contaminant Level Goal (MCLG): The level of a contaminant in drinking water below which there is no known or expected risk to health. MCLGs allow for a margin of safety. mg/l: milligrams per liter or parts per million - or one ounce in 7,350 gallons of water. ug/l: micrograms per liter or parts per billion - or one ounce in 7,350,000 gallons of water. na: not applicable. Avg: Regulatory compliance with some MCLs is based on running annual average of monthly samples .Maximum Residual Disinfectant Level (MRDL): The highest level of disinfectant allowed in drinking water. Maximum Residual Disinfectant Level Goal (MRDLG): The level of disinfectant in drinking water below which there is no known or expected risk to health. MRDLGs allow for a margin of safety

Disinfectants & Disinfection

Regulated Contaminants

Disinfectants & Disinfection ByProducts

Note: The state requires monitoring of certain contaminants

Note: The state requires monitoring of certain contaminants less than once per year because the concentrations of these contaminants do not change frequently. Therefore, some of this data may be more than one year old. Not all sample results may have been used for calculating the Highest Level Detected because some results may be part of an evaluation to determine where compliance sampling should occur in the future.

Unregulated Contaminants

Sample Event Code/Sample Schedule

Unregulated Contaminants

Unregulated Contaminants Sample

Facility ID/Name McCook intertie (Chicago-Jardine WTP)

Sample Event Code/Sample Schedule SE4 Nov

Sample Point ID/Type/Name CC01 EP Pine Avenue Pump Station

Facility ID/Name McCook intertie (Chicago-Jardine WTP)

The Village of Riverside had no violations in 2024.

continued from previous page

LEGAL NOTICE

Drinking water, including bottled water, may reasonably be expected to contain at least small amounts of some contamination. The presence of contaminants does not necessarily indicate that water poses a health risk. Because water is the universal solvent, many materials are easily dissolved upon contact. At low levels, the contaminants generally are not harmful in our drinking water. Removing all contaminants would be extremely expensive, and in nearly all cases, would not provide greater protection of health. If a resident is concerned, a suggestion is to run tap water for 30 seconds. More information about contaminants and their potential health effects can be obtained by calling the EPA’s Safe Drinking Water Hotline (800) 426-4791. In order to ensure that tap water is safe to drink, EPA prescribes regulations which limit the amount of certain contaminants in water provided by public water systems. FDA regulations establish limits for contaminants in bottled water which must provide the same protection for public health. Some people may be more vulnerable to contaminants in the drinking water than the general population. Immuno-compromised persons such as persons with cancer undergoing chemotherapy, persons who have undergone organ transplants, people with HIV/AIDS or other immune system disorders, some elderly people, and infants can be particularly at risk from infections. These people should seek advice about drinking water from their health care providers. EPA/ CDC guidelines on appropriate means to lessen the risk of infection by Cryptosporidium and other microbial contaminants are available from the EPA’s Safe Drinking Water Hotline (800) 426-4791.

The sources of drinking water (both tap and bottled water) include rivers, lakes, streams, ponds, reservoirs, springs, and wells. As water travels over the surface of the land or through the ground, it can dissolve naturally occurring minerals, and pick up substances resulting from the presence of animals or human activity. Contaminants that may be present in source water include: Microbial contaminants, such as viruses and bacteria, which may come from sewage treatment plants, septic systems, agricultural livestock operations and wildlife; Inorganic contaminants, such as salts and metals, which may be naturally occurring or the result from urban storm water runoff, industrial or domestic wastewater discharges, oil and gas production, mining or farming, Pesticides and herbicides, which may come from a variety of sources such as agriculture, urban storm water runoff and residential uses, Organic chemical contaminants, including synthetic and volatile organic chemicals, which are byproducts of industrial processes and petroleum production, and may also come from gas stations, urban storm water runoff and septic systems. Radioactive contaminants, which may be naturally occurring or be the result of oil and gas production and mining activities. In order to ensure that tap water is safe to drink, USEPA prescribes regulations that limit the amount of certain contaminants in water provided by public water systems. FDA regulations establish limits for contaminants in bottled water, which must provide the same protection for public health.

The Illinois EPA considers all surface water sources of community water supply to be susceptible to potential pollution problems. They very nature of surface water allows contaminants to migrate into the intake with no protection only dilution. This is the reason for mandatory treatment for all surface water supplies in Illinois. Chicago’s offshore intakes are located at a distance that shoreline impacts are not usually considered a factor on water quality. At certain times of the year, however, the potential for contamination exists due to wetweather flows and river reversals. In addition, the placement of the crib structures may serve to attract waterfowl, gulls and terns that frequent the Great Lakes area thereby concentrating fecal deposits at the intake and thus compromising the source water quality. Conversely, the shore intakes are highly susceptible to storm water runoff, marinas and shoreline point sources due to the influx of groundwater to the lake.

We want our valued customers to be informed about their water quality. If you would like to learn more, please feel free to attend any one of our regularly scheduled Village Board meetings. The source water assessment has been completed by the Illinois EPA. If you would like a copy of this information, please stop by the Village Hall or call the Village’s Public Works Water Superintendent, Dan Williams, at 708-442-3590. To view a summary version of the completed Water Source Assessments, including: Importance of Source Water; Susceptibility to Contamination Determination; and documentation/recommendation of Source Water Protection Efforts, you may access the Illinois EPA website at http://www.epa.state.il.us/cgi-bin/wp/swapfact-sheets.pl

Regulated

of the water caused by suspended particles. We

and the effectiveness of our filtration system and disinfectants.

Total Organic Carbon

Total organic carbon has no health effects. However, total organic carbon provides a

Routine (DBP), Major

Fifth Unregulated Contaminant Monitoring Rule (UCMR 5)

of the

drinking water during this period.

As required by UCMR5, EPA’s last monitoring cycle, the City of Chicago has completed monitoring for 25 perfluorinated & polyfluorinated alkyl substances, 4 perfluorinated alkyl acids, and lithium in its drinking water for four quarters in 2024. None of the contaminants were detected in our drinking water.

Illinois EPA considers all surface water sources of community water supply to be susceptible to potential pollution problems. The very nature of surface water allows contaminants to migrate into the intake with no protection, only dilution. This is the reason for mandatory treatment for all surface water supplies in Illinois. Chicago’s offshore intakes are located at a distance that shoreline impacts are not usually considered a factor on water quality. At certain times of the year, however, the potential for contamination exists due to wet-weather flows and river reversals. In addition, the placement of the crib structures may serve to attract waterfowl, gulls and terns that frequent the Great lakes area, thereby concentrating fecal deposits at the intake and thus compromising the source water quality. Conversely, the shore intakes are highly susceptible to storm water runoff, marinas and shoreline point sources due to the influx of groundwater to the lake.

2024 VOLUNTARY MONITORING

The City of Chicago has continued monitoring for Cryptosporidium, Giardia and E. coli in its source water as part of its water quality program. No Cryptosporidium or Giardia was detected in source water samples collected in 2024. Treatment processes have been optimized to provide effective barriers for removal of Cryptosporidium oocysts and Giardia cysts in the source water, effectively removing these organisms in the treatment process. By maintaining low turbidity through the removal of particles from the water, the possibility of Cryptosporidium and Giardia organisms getting into the drinking water system is greatly reduced. In 2024, CDWM has continued monitoring for hexavalent chromium, also known as chromium-6. USEPA has not yet established a standard for chromium-6, a contaminant of concern which has both natural and industrial sources. Please address any questions or concerns to DWM’s Water Quality Division at 312-744-8190. Data reports on the monitoring program for chromium-6 are posted on the City’s website which can be accessed at: http://www.cityofchicago.org/city/en/depts/water/supp_info/waterquality_resultsandreports/city_of_chicago_emergincontaminantstudy.html For more information, please contact Patrick Schwer, at 312-744-7001 and/or Chicago Department of Water Management, 1000 East Ohio Street, Chicago, Illinois 60611, Attn: Patrick Schwer

YOUR BEST LIFE with Lisa Capone

Understanding Alzheimer’s

Maintaining brain health starts early. Below tips are all linked to reduced risk of cognitive decline and can help keep the brain sharp regular physical activity a balanced diet social engagement mental stimulation simple habits—like walking daily, reading, or learning a new skill—

It’s also important to recognize the early signs of memory loss. These may include forgetting recently learned information repeating questions difficulty managing finances struggling to follow conversations misplacing items experiencing changes in mood, personality, or judgment. While occasional forgetfulness is normal with aging, consistent patterns of these symptoms may indicate something more serious.

If you or a loved one are experiencing any of these signs, consult a healthcare professional. Early detection can lead to better planning and improved quality of life.

Visit Cantata.org for more senior living advice or call (708) 387-1030.

ROADWORK

Flipside of the street

from page 1

road. Last Wednesday, June 11, Brookfield announced the work had shifted to the southwest side of the street for the next seven weeks and change.

While village staf f infor med b usiness owners of the c onstruction ahead of time, businesses on the block are feeling the consequences

One business owner on the northeast side of the 3700 block, who asked to remain anonymous, said she’s noticed a drop in turnout at events her business hosts.

“My sales are down about 20% [compared to] last year, from the start date to last Thursday, [June 5],” she told the Landmark.

The business owner said she thinks a perceived lack of parking has pushed potential customers to go elsewhere, contributing to the lower attendance, but she said she’s had to accept that the construction will continue for most of the summer.

“It is what it is. My initial thought was, ‘Hey, I get that there’s a grant for Brookfield [to improve Grand Boulevard], I get it. I just wish it was timed differently,’” she said. “But what can you do? You don’t really have much power.”

Village Manager Tim Wiberg said 80% of the funding for the project comes from the Surface Transportation Program administered by the Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning through the Central Council of Mayors, to which Brookfield belongs.

T he anonymous owner said Ju ly and Au g ust tend to be slowe r months for her b usiness

“They usually have the [Fourth of July] parade, the car show, and the music on Grand to get us through [July],” she said. “Now, we don’t have any of those events, because they’re rerouting the parade nowhere near here, the car show is at the circle, and they’re not doing music on Grand, so July is going to be a pretty tough month for us.”

Dee Williams, a manager at Daisy’s Treats and Bakery, and Gina Conley, the owner of Prairie Path Vintage Market, said they didn’t think the construction had affected their sales or traffic. Both businesses are on the southwest side of Grand Boulevard, where work has only just begun.

Cristina Garza is the owner and operator of The Social Play, 3741 Grand Blvd., an indoor play space for children aged five and younger. The business has only been open for eight months, so Garza said she doesn’t have data to compare against for this time of year,

e construction on Grand Boulevard, seen here in front of Brook eld Breakfast, includes dig ging up stretches of road and sidewalk and closing down some parking.

but she’s noticed the construction has made it difficult for families with kids in strollers to access her storefront.

“Maybe if you’re looking [from] across the street, and you see that there’s no way for you to cross over from your stroller, then it could potentially have parents turn away from coming in,” she said. “For some parents who do have strollers, I’ve actually had them come in through the back door, just to try and help out, but then that can be a little frustrating because some people will start calling me: ‘Hey, Cristina, is your back door open?’”

Garza said she didn’t feel upset about the construction after seeing renderings of the finished product.

“Now, I’m feeling relief that our side is done,” she said.

Jenna Land runs her vintage clothing business, Collect by Land, inside apothecary Luxxe Honor, 3745 Grand Blvd. Like Garza, Land’s business has been open for less than a year, so she said she couldn’t say if the level of activity she’s seeing is normal for June. Still, business has been slow.

“There are days that they’re pouring [concrete] wherever, and you can’t get in or out, and there’s absolutely no foot traffic,” she told the Landmark. “Even coming from before construction, whenever it was colder out, we were getting more walk-ins, things like that. Then, once construction [started], there’s hardly any walk-ins. It really is a ghost town.”

She said she didn’t begrudge Brookfield for the construction, though.

“Everyone in the village has been really great, and they were good at informing us and letting us know about everything,” she said. “The communication has been great. I don’t know if there’s really anything else they can do.”

Wiberg said village staff have coordinated with the construction crews to ensure parking along Grand Boulevard reopens after work is done for the day.

“In the busy dinnertime and evening hours, most of the spots have been reopened, so we were careful to ensure that was going to happen,” he said. “The basic thing is to get the project done as quickly and efficiently as possible, so that the conflicts would not be there for very long.”

He said Brookfield staf f has been intentional about reaching out to business owners, including hosting public meetings and going door-to-door with information, but has not been able to offer them economic incentives.

“The project is on schedule. We’re working proactively with the contractor to make sure that they stay on schedule, and they’ve been good to work with. Hancock Engineering is doing a great job in managing the project and keeping, like I said, parking spots open. We’re trying to mitigate the negative impacts as much as possible,” Wiberg said. “The detour seems to be working well, and I chock that up to, again, we did a lot of public information prior to this project. I have not seen any traffic tie-ups as a result of the lack of northbound traffic allowed on Grand, so everything seems to be going really well.”

June marks Alzheimer’s & Brain Awareness Month—a time to raise awareness about the importance of brain health and support those impacted by Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia.

MONDAY, JUNE 23, 2025 | 7�00 � 8�30 PM

OAK PARK PUBLIC LIBRARY MAIN BRANCH, VETERAN’S ROOM 834 LAKE ST., OAK PARK, IL 60301

Hosted by Senate President Don Harmon and House Assistant Majority Leader Camille Lilly

Brook eld home sells for $810,000

The following property transfers were re ported by the Cook County Clerk from March 2025. Where addresses appear incomplete, for instance where a unit number appears missing, that info rmation was not provided by the clerk’s office.

BREAKING

3516 Holly wood Ave., Brook eld

High driver caught making U-turn in downtown Riverside

Riverside police arrested a man June 8 for driving under the influence of drugs.

Around 3:07 a.m., two officers on patrol were heading south on Akenside Road when they saw a car make a U-turn at the intersection of Longcommon Road and East Burlington Street. With the car heading north on Longcommon, the officers saw the car had one working headlamp and fog lights turned on before it turned onto Nuttall Road without signaling. Police noted the car was moving “at a slow speed” while “slightly weaving” within the traffic lane.

The officers pulled the car over near the intersection with Shenstone Road around Turtle Park. While speaking with the driver, one officer noticed he had droopy eyes and moved slowly, and they smelled bur nt cannabis. When asked, the man provided a valid driver’s license and proof of insurance.

The man told the officer he had made a U-turn because East Burlington Street was closed and that he and his passenger, a woman, were “just driving around,” police said. When asked about the odor, the man denied having cannabis. The second officer noticed a loaded gun magazine in the center console of the car, and dispatchers advised them that the man possessed a concealed carry license.

After having the man step out of the car, police asked about the magazine; the man said he had a CCL but did not have a gun on his person or in the car. Police did not find a gun after patting the man down. Police noted the man “was slightly swaying.” They asked the man to take field sobriety testing, but he declined and asked to take a chemical breath test, as he said he had not drunk any alcohol. The test showed .016 blood alcohol content.

Based on the man’s driving b ehaviors, droopy eyes, sw aying wh i le standing, slow movement and the odor of c annabis, p olice ar r ested him for driving under the influence and transported him to c entral lockup in Berwyn. Police had the man’s car towe d and took the g un ma gazine to the Rive rside Police Department for the man to retrieve later

Drunk driver strikes parked cars and fence

Brookfield police arrested a 44-year-old Brookfield man June 2 for driving drunk after his car struck other vehicles and a fence.

An officer responded around 1:54 a.m. to the 4500 block of Custer Avenue for a re port of property damage after a homeowner told police a car had struck his fence, and the driver was trying to exit the car. At the scene, the officer observed damage to two unoccupied vehicles and heavy damage to the car that crashed.

When the officer made contact with the driver, he was trying to exit through the passenger-side door with his dog. The officer told the man to leave his dog in the car and exit the car to meet paramedics, who were on the way. The man slur red his words while he spoke and wore only one shoe as he got out of the car. The officer also smelled alcohol on the man’s “person and breath.”

Paramedics evaluated the man, who declined transportation to the hospital for further treatment. The man told them he was diabetic, so they told the officer they would need to “rule out a diabetic episode” due to the man appearing intoxicated, police said.

The man told the officer he had been coming from his restaurant in the Chicagoland area. He said he had drunk one shot of brandy around 8 p.m. but that he had been cleaning the restaurant all night, so the smell could have been on his clothes. The man later said he had had two more shots around midnight. The man ag reed to take standardized field testing, during which he failed to follow instructions accurately and struggled to maintain his balance. He declined to take a preliminary breath test. The officer arrested the man for driving under the influence and transported him to the police station, where the man told police he had been driven to and from work by his boss, who dropped him off at home

OBITUARIES

Norma Schmit, 101

Ballroom dancer

Local News

Maria De La Luz Guzman, 79

Homemaker, mother of 11

Maria De La Luz

Guzman (nee Morales), 79, of Plainfield, for merly of Brookfield, died on June 13, 2025. A homemaker, she was the wife of Rafael Guzman; the mother of Eva Guzman, Carolina (Jubenal) Arria (Claudia) Guzman, Jose Guzman, Miguel Guzman, Gustavo (Bibiana) Guzman, Rafael Guzman, Jesus (Tatiana) Guzman, Jaime Guzman, Isabel Guzman and Sandy Guzman; and the grandmother of many. Visitation will be held on Friday, June 20 from 3 to 8 p.m. at Johnson-Nosek Funeral Home, 3847 Prairie Ave., Brookfield. The funeral Mass will be celebrated at 11 a.m. on Saturday, June 21, at St. Barbara Church in Brookfield, followed by interment at Queen of Heaven Cemetery, Hillside. Online condolences, photos and memories may be shared with the family at www. johnsonnosek.com.

To run an obituary

Please contact Ken Trainor by e-mail: ktrainor@wjinc.com, before Monday at noon. Please include a photo if possible.

Norma Schmit, 101, of Seminole Florida, died peacefully at home on J 8, 2025, having li a long, happy Born on Jan. 16, 1924 in Charleston, W Virginia to Emil and Gennie Michaux, she grew up in Chicago with her parents and older siblings, Irene and Marguerit married John Schmit in 1949 and raised children in Brookfield, then mo Florida with her husband in 1983, was a member of St. Justin Martyr Catholic Church. Nor ma loved to ballroom dance. She enjoyed classic movies, travel, and spending time with her family and friends.

She was preceded in death by her husband, John, and her sisters, Marguerite and Irene. She is survived by her children, Gregory Schmit, Michael Schmit, Nancy Phillips (husband Patrick), and Roger Schmit; her grandchildren, Carolyn Phillips-Marshall (husband Robert) and Patrick Phillips (wife Gina); and her great-grandchildren, Riley Marshall, Haley Marshall, Evvy Marshall, and Charles Phillips.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, June 18 from 9:30 a.m. until time of prayers, 10:30 a.m. at Johnson-Nosek Funeral Home, 3847 Prairie Ave., Brookfield, followed by a funeral Mass at 11 a.m. at St. Barbara Church in Brookfield and interment at Queen of Heaven Cemetery, Hillside.

Memorial donations may be made in Norma’s memory to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Online condolences, photos and memories may be shared with the family at www.johnsonnosek.com.

POLICE REPORTS

July 8 court date and taking the man back to his residence with his dog.

from page 13

around midnight. The man said he tried to go to bed but got hungry and drove himself to 7-Eleven, and he lost control of the car while driving back home. The man admitted he had three shots before driving that night and said he had received a DUI in 2015.

Police charged the man with seven citations, including driving under the influence, failing to avoid the crash, and driving with expired re gistration, before setting a

These items were obtained from the Riverside Police Department reports dated June 8 and the Brookfield Police Department reports dated June 2-9; they represent a portion of the incidents to which police responded. Anyone named in these reports has only been charged with a crime and cases have not yet been adjudicated. We report the race of a suspect only when a serious crime has been committed, the suspect is still at large and police have provided us with a detailed physical description of the suspect as they seek the public’s help in making an arrest

Compiled by Trent Brown

Sports

Summer Shootout basketball returns to RBHS

ree-day event with 84 teams includes Bulldogs, Lyons Township, Fenwick

By BILL STONE Contributing Reporter

Riverside Brookfield High School boys basketball coach Mike Reingruber rarely gets a break from the sport.

“Not really. It’s all good,” said Reingruber with a laugh. “A little bit in July, but not much.”

Being varsity coach alone has its challenges and responsibilities. For Reingruber, there’s also overseeing the 22nd annual Summer Shootout this Friday, Saturday and Sunday at RBHS.

The NCAA Live Event is among the premier boys high school basketball summer events around, with 84 teams, including the host Bulldogs, Lyons Township, Fenwick and 2025 state champions Benet Academy (Class 4A) and DePaul Prep (3A).

Links for further tournament infor mation, schedules and scores is available at riversidebrookfieldbasketball.com. Live coverage will be available at Ballertv.com.

“How grateful and thankful I am for all of the people who help, to the school administration to r un the event,” Reingr uber said. “It’s really a great stage for our high school and progr am to be seen in a positive light.”

The “ultimate RB family” unites as vol-

unteers who make the event thrive, including the RBHS coaching staf f, current and for mer players and their families, for mer coaches, friends and Reing ruber’s family

“[Around] 100 when all is said and done,” Reingruber said. “RB basketball is truly a family and it’s evident the third week of June with all of the people who come together and make this major production a success. People, I think, really appreciate how much hard work goes into it.”

Every team plays twice on two of the three days. The half-court games consist of two 20-minute halves with running clocks.

The Bulldogs and Friars meet at 2:45 p.m. Friday after earlier playing Thornwood and Alton, respectively, at 12:55 p.m.

On Saturday, the Bulldogs play Rock Island at 8:55 a.m. and St. Ignatius at 10:45 a.m. Fenwick meets Stevenson at 8:55 a.m. and Thornwood at 10:45 a.m.

The Lions start action Saturday against Lincoln Park at 12:35 p.m. and Lake Forest at 2:25 p.m. They finish Sunday with Rolling Meadows at 12:10 p.m. and Schaumburg at 1:05 p.m.

Since earning NCAA Live Event status in 2019, the Shootout again will attract more than 200 colle ge coaches. The Shootout’s alumni include 18 NBA players and countless Division I players.

RBHS Cameron Mercer (5) lays up a shot against Fenwick’s Ty Macariola (21) during the Bill VandeMerkt Boys Basketball Tournament Nov. 29, 2024. in Riverside.

Pontrelli named new LTHS girls cross country head coach

Veteran assistant has worked with boys and girls cross country, track teams

By BILL STONE Contributing Reporter

Joe Pontrelli has been a fixture with the Lyons Township High School girls and boys cross country and track programs all the way back to 2016. He’s back again this fall but with slightly different focuses.

Pontrelli not only has been named the girls cross country team’s new varsity head coach.

He also will begin working at LTHS after being a physical education teacher at Gurrie Middle School in La Grange since 2007.

“I’m really excited, but it’s a lot of big changes,” Pontrelli said. “I thought about it quite a bit. I really wanted to be [a head coach] but [worried about] the timeline with my family. I think now is the perfect opportunity for me and I felt like I was ready to go.” Pontrelli takes over for Eric Simon, who re-

tired from coaching after previously retiring from teaching. The rest of the coaching staf f remains intact with assistants Greg Frandsen (also the girls track and field head coach), Luke Taylor and Dina Castillo.

“I feel like there’s a general comfort level. You have the fact that I’ve worked with all of them [on the girls or boys teams],” he said.

See PONTRELLI on pa ge 17

STEVE JOHNSTON

JOE PONTRELLI

Lions’ Mladjan, Recker share all-state water polo honors

Pair named to rst team a er helping girls nish second in state

By BILL STONE Contributing Reporter

Senior Maya Mladjan’s fourth varsity girls water polo season for Lyons Township High School started rough with missed matches because of illness and a concussion following an auto accident. Even with another physical setback, the Brookfield resident couldn’t have finished much better Mladjan and junior teammate Bella Recker were named first-team all-state after helping the Lions place second in state – the program’s second-highest state finish to their 2010 state championship.

“I would say it was a complete 180 [turnaround],” Mladjan said. “I had a little bit of a [left] shoulder injury so I wasn’t even playing that much leading up to state but then comes state and you’re just bam right in the center of the action.”

LTHS senior goalie Delaney Judkins was third-team all-state. LTHS coach Megan Jacobs was named Coach of the Year.

Mladjan was second in goals this season (74) and had 32 assists and 52 steals even with limited play and being a key defensive player. She also was first-team all-state in 2024 after 122 goals, 40 assists and 68 steals, second-team all-state in 2023 and third-team all-state in 2022.

adjan stepped up even while battling pain in her left shoulder. The injury is gradually healing as she and Recker play with the Norther n Illinois Polo Club based at St evenson, annual site of the state finals.

“I just played through it [at state]. The adrenaline just came. It was (my non-throwing) left shoulder so I would say I’m kind of lucky,” Mladjan said.

“I hope that I’ve inspired [my teammates] to become better players and to take some of the things that I’ve talked to them about.

Hopefully [our season] can inspire the JV players to also try their best and be able to make it to the state championship next year and even the following years.”

Recker, among six non-seniors on the 10-player first team, had a team-best 96 goals, 48 assists and 58 steals. In 2024, she and Judkins were second-team all-state

“I’ve been working really, really hard and it was nice to see all of that pay off [with first team],” said Recker, who hopes to play collegiately. “It just makes me very excited because that means the work is paying off and I can’t wait to improve this summer.”

She became an even stronger offensive weapon after a team-high 113 assists in 2024 while being second in goals (85) with 39 steals

“I think a lot of that has to do with con-

of converting. It’s also a testament to my teammates being able to communicate and not only set me up but give me the opportunity. I would attribute a lot of my goals to them,” Recker said.

“[Our season] just surpassed my expectations. I was not necessarily nervous but not sure what to think because we lost two key players. Being able to build that communication and increased level of play as the season went along was exciting and fun to be a part of.”

Earning Lyons Township first-team allsectional honors were Mladjan, Recker and Judkins (241 saves, 68 save percentage).

Second-team all-sectional were Riverside Brookfield senior Liv Dobbe and LTHS junior Bebe Wright (43 goals, team-high 68 assists and 83 steals). LTHS junior Avery Watanabe (28 goals, 40 assists, 23 steals) was honorable mention. Jacobs was the sectional’s Coach of the Year.

Mladjan will play at Michig an alongside older sister Emilia, a 2023 LTHS graduate and for mer all-stater. Judkins will play at McKendree College in downstate Lebanon.

Boys water polo

LTHS senior Sami Rabah was named second-team all-state and LTHS junior Ben Kozak was third-team all-state. Rabah

had team bests of 49 goals, 43 assists and 27 steals. Kozak had 33 goals, 26 assists and 20 steals.

For the Lyons Township All-Sectional Team, Rabah and Kozak were first team, RBHS senior goalie Marty Beiliauskas and LTHS junior Wes Musg rove (40 goals, 26 assists, 21 steals) were second team and LTHS senior goalie Zayn Rabah (133 saves) received honorable mention. Bieliauskas achieved RBHS documented records for saves in one season and one game.

After winning the 2024 state title, the Lions lost in the sectional final with a relatively inexperienced lineup. This was their first season not reaching at least the state quarterfinals since 2014.

The Lions lost to Brother Rice 19-14. Sami Rabah scored six goals in the 11-5 sectional semifinal victory over St. Rita the night before despite battling a shoulder injury from the previous week.

“He was not going to let that slow him down,” said LTHS coach Doug Eichstaedt after the loss to Brother Rice. “I thought we made a lot of improvements from the beginning of the year and scoring 14 goals would usually lead to a win. [Brother Rice] played a great game and continued to make plays, especially when we would get the game back to one to two goals. They always had an answer.”

STEVE JOHNSTON

Lyons Tow nship’s Maya Mladjan (9) receives a pass down low against Hinsdale Central during a West Suburban Conference match April 16, in Wester n Springs.

STEVE JOHNSTON

Lyons Township’s Bella Recker (3) swims with the ball on a break away against Hinsdale Central during a West Suburban Conference match April 16, 2025 in Western Springs

Bulldogs’ Megall, Lions’ Evans, Jacklin make 4A third-team all-state

Nazareth’s Joe named third-team all-state for Class 3A so ball

By BILL STONE Contributing Reporter

Senior Ellie Megall came to the Riverside Brookfield High School softball program hoping she could fill the varsity’s void at third base.

“I played shortstop and mainly outfield for my travel team. At that point, I was willing to do anything to get on the team [as a freshman],” said Megall, who remained at third base throughout all four years and established herself among the Bulldogs’ greats.

She was also named third-team all-state on the Illinois Coaches Association Softball Class 4A All-State Team along with Lyons Township senior first baseman/pitcher Isabella Evans and junior shortstop Ava Jacklin.

In 3A, Nazareth Academy senior centerfielder Kennedy Joe was third-team allstate also.

“I think it’s a pretty big accomplishment. There’s a lot of other great names on every team on the list so I’m very excited,” said Megall, who will play at Northern Kentucky. She was all-conference all four seasons and finishes with a .467 career batting average, 116 total runs batted in, 37 doubles

CROSS COUNTRY

from page 15

That also holds true with many runners. In the fall, Pontrelli has been coaching with the boys cross country team, but in the spring he’s been the girls track team’s distance coach the past couple of seasons. He also was encouraged by the support and mentoring from longtime coaches

and 101 runs scored. This season, Megall led the Bulldogs with a .461 average that included two home runs, 35 RBIs, a team-high 14 doubles and a 1.18 OPS.

RBHS (24-10) enjoyed its best record in her four seasons after an 8-8 start and captured its first regional title since her freshman year.

“I went into this year saying I want to have a stress-free, fun, last way to go out, and on top of it we did really well. [Regionals] was one of the biggest goals I wanted to end the season with,” she said. “I hope that I’m remembered just as someone who gave as much as they could to the program. I hope I left an impact on the team physically but also mentally and socially.”

LTHS coach Megan Quinn said Jacklin had “a phenomenal season,” with her .490 on-base percentage and 1.195 OPS. She batted .420 with four home runs, 15 RBIs, 31 runs scored, 11 doubles and 14-for-14 in stolen bases. Getting a late start after elbow surgery in February, Evans hit .315 with three home runs and nine RBIs.

Again the Roadrunners’ leadof f hitter, Joe hit .427 with three homers, 19 RBIs, 32 runs and 25 stolen bases.

In their first season in the Upstate Eight Conference’s East Division, the Bulldogs had three all-conference players – Megall, junior shortstop Trinity Stevenson (.455, 32 RBIs) and freshman first baseman/pitcher Mia Melendez (.458, team highs of 11 HR, 60 RBIs and 1.443 OPS).

Senior second baseman Ella Jurgens

Frandsen and LTHS head boys cross country and track coach Mike Danner

“That kind of gave me the confidence to go forward,” he said. “There were some very positive [athlete] comments toward the end of track. It was pretty cool to have the kids kind of have your back in that situation.”

Pontrelli ran at Fenton High School and Elmhurst University. He also coached at McHenry West from 2004-07 before coaching at Gur rie

Riverside-Brook eld’s Eleanor Megall (10) connects against Lyons during a nonconference game Saturday, March 16, 2024 in Wester n Springs.

(.431, 26 RBIs) and freshman pitcher Amelia Pytel (11-3, 2.53 earned r un average, 169 strikeouts in 108 innings, .282, 3 HR, 17 RBIs) received honorable mention.

Melendez was the only freshman among the 18 first-team selections. Stevenson joined Me g all in earning All-Metro Suburban Conference honors for 2024.

Evans and Jacklin were the Lions’ two All-West Suburban Conference Silver Division selections. Evans also was all-conference in 2024.

Nazareth’s All-East Suburban Catholic Conference players were Joe, senior pitcher Isabella Rychetsky (.396, 6 HR, 26 RBIs, 15-12 pitching, 2.48 earned-run average, 227 strikeouts in 178 innings) and senior ca tcher Emme Barnes of Brookfield (.262, 3 HR, 21 RBIs). Senior shortstop Rita Hynes (HR,

When LTHS summer running be gan last week, Pontrelli reunited with his track runners and introduced himself to a lot of new faces. The program has near or more than 100 runners annually.

“I just want to first start building a positive culture,” Pontrelli said. “I think I have a good relationship with the girls I work with in track but a whole group of other kids I have to build positive relationships I want to do really good, low-mileage training and good mechanics and form and have

5 RBIs) was honorable mention. Joe and Rychetsky also were All-ESCC in 2024. Barnes (St. Francis) and Rychetsky (Williams) will play in colle ge. Barnes be g an varsity by playing third base as a freshman, then split time between third base and catcher and last season became the No. 1 catcher. As a senior, Barnes was behind the plate for every inning

“She was the heart of our defense and a true leader on and of f the field. Her dedication, toughness, and steady presence played a huge role in our team’s success this season,” said first-year Nazareth coach Chrissy Johnson. “More than just a great player, Emme is a young lady of character who sets the tone for how we competed and carried ourselves.”

a positive experience throughout running.”

The 2024 Lions were 10th at sectionals and missed a top-seven finish to qualify for state as a team. They return all seven runners from the sectional lineup, including individual state qualifier and rising senior Mya Coglianese.

“As long as we can stay healthy, I think we can be competitive down the stretch,” Pontrelli said. “I’m really hopeful we can qualify for state, but our sectional might be real tough.”

STEVE JOHNSTON

PUBLIC NOTICE

The Village of Forest Park is now accepting Statements of Qualifications for Phase III Construction Engineering Services for the Jackson Boulevard Resurfacing Project in Forest Park.

Notice is hereby given that the Village of Forest Park will receive Statements of Qualifications for Phase III Construction Engineering Services at 517 DesPlaines Ave, Forest Park, Illinois, 60130. Attention Rachell Entler, Village Administrator until 11am on Thursday June 26th, 2025 local time.

Any submissions that are received after the due date and time will be disqualified. Submissions are to be sent via email to rentler@ forestpark.net Additional information is available on the Village of Forest Park website. The Village of Forest Park reservices the right to reject any and all submissions or parts thereof, to waive any irregularities or informalities in the solicitation process and to award the contract in a manner best serving the interests of the Village.

Rachell Entler – Village Administrator rentler@forestpark.net

LEGAL NOTICE

The Village of Oak Park will receive bids for 1 Dell PowerEdge R760xs Server. The full bid document can be obtained from the Village website www.oak-park.us. Bids will be accepted until July 1, 2025 5PM Central.

Published in Wednesday Journal June 18, 2025

LEGAL NOTICE

The Village of Oak Park ��Office of the Village Engineer, 201 South Boulevard, Oak Park, Illinois 60302�� will receive electronic proposals until 10�00 a.m. on Friday, July 11 for Project: 25�3, 2025 Sidewalk Improvements Program. Bids will be received and accepted, and bid results posted via the online electronic bid service listed below. In general, this contract includes removal and replacement of public sidewalk, parkway and carrage walks, combination curb and gutter, driveways, and PCC basecourse; pavement adjacent to curbs, adjustment of drainage structures, buffalo boxes and all appurtenant work thereto. Sidewalk sequencing during the work and adherence to the completion date is of emphasis for this project as outlined in the plans and proposal forms. Plans and proposal forms may be obtained via the electronic service starting on Friday, June 20, at 10�00 a.m. Plans and proposal forms can be found at https://www.oak-park.us/yourgovernment/budget-purchasing/ requests-proposals or at www. questcdn.com under login using

QuestCDN number 9740312 for a non-refundable charge of $64.00. The Village of Oak Park reserves the right to issue plans and specifications only to those contractors deemed qualified. No bid documents will be issued after 4�00 p.m. on the working day preceding the date of bid opening.

This project is financed with local Village funds and federal Community Development Block Grant �CDBG� funds and thus is subject to all federal rules, regulations and guidelines, including Davis-Bacon and Related Acts, Section 3, and Equal Opportunity requirements. Locally funded phases of the project are subject to the Illinois Prevailing Wage Act, 820 ILCS 130/0.01 et seq. Please note, this Contract will be subject to the requirments set forth in IDOT Circular Letter 2023�30 “BUILD AMERICA / BUY AMERICAN ACT �BABA� � FINAL RULE.” This law requires certain materials to be manufactured and produced in America.

THE VILLAGE OF OAK PARK Bill McKenna Village Engineer

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, 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. local time until 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, July 9, 2025 for the following: Village of Oak Park CDBG Water Service Replacement Program - 2025 Bid Number: 25-123

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 8:30 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

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 Federallyfunded project, funded with Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds and is thus subject to all applicable Federal rules, regulations and guidelines, including DavisBacon 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, June 18, 2025

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT - CHANCERY DIVISION US BANK TRUST NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUT SOLELY AS OWNER TRUSTEE FOR VRMTG ASSET TRUST Plaintiff vs. UNKNOWN HEIRS AND LEGATEES OF WILLIE G. HENRY; FLORENCETTA HENRY; TCF NATIONAL BANK; ANITA HENRY; COURTNEY HENRY; EBONEE HENRY; MERCEDES HENRY; TIARA HENRY; JACK LYDON, AS SPECIAL REPRESENTATIVE OF WILLIE G. HENRY; UNKNOWN HEIRS AND LEGATEES OF FLORENCETTA HENRY, IF ANY; UNKNOWN OWNERS AND NON RECORD CLAIMANTS; Defendant 17 CH 13529

CALENDAR 61

NOTICE OF SALE

PUBLIC NOTICE is hereby given that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure entered in the above entitled cause Intercounty Judicial Sales Corporation will on July 21, 2025, at the hour 11:00 a.m., Intercounty’s office, 120 West Madison Street, Suite 718A, Chicago, IL 60602, sell to the highest bidder for cash, the following described mortgaged real estate: P.I.N. 15-09-315-063-0000. Commonly known as 635 Rice Avenue, Bellwood, IL 60104. The real estate is: single family residence. If the subject mortgaged real estate is a unit of a common interest community, the purchaser of the unit other than a mortgagee shall pay the assessments required by subsection (g-1) of Section 18.5 of the Condominium Property Act. Sale terms: At sale, the bidder must have 10% down by certified funds, balance within 24 hours, by certified funds. No refunds. The property will NOT be open for inspection. Prospective bidders are admonished to check the court file to verify all information.

For information call Sales Department at Plaintiff’s Attorney, Codilis & Associates, P.C., 15W030 North Frontage Road. Suite 100, Burr Ridge, IL 60527. (630) 794-5300. 14-23-01315

INTERCOUNTY JUDICIAL SALES CORPORATION intercountyjudicialsales.com I3267950

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT - CHANCERY DIVISION ATHENE ANNUITY & LIFE ASSURANCE COMPANY Plaintiff vs. UNKNOWN HEIRS OF JOYCE A. ROBINSON, CITY OF CHICAGO, CAPITAL ONE, N.A. SUCCESSOR IN INTEREST TO CAPITAL ONE BANK (USA), N.A., MIDLAND FUNDING LLC, RONALD ROBINSON, JUVONA ROBINSON, AMIR MOHABBAT AS SPECIAL REPRESENTATIVE, UNKNOWN OWNERS AND NON-RECORD CLAIMANTS Defendant 23 CH 1793 CALENDAR 59

NOTICE OF SALE

PUBLIC NOTICE is hereby given that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure entered in the above entitled cause Intercounty Judicial Sales Corporation will on July 21, 2025, at the hour 11:00 a.m., Intercounty’s office, 120 West Madison Street, Suite 718A, Chicago, IL 60602, sell to the highest bidder for cash, the following described mortgaged real estate: P.I.N. 15-17-113-013-0000. Commonly known as 236 N. FOREST AVE., HILLSIDE, IL 60162. The real estate is: single family residence. If the subject mortgaged real estate is a unit of a common interest community, the purchaser of the unit other than a mortgagee shall pay the assessments required by subsection (g-1) of Section 18.5 of the Condominium Property Act. Sale terms: At sale, the bidder must have 10% down by certified funds, balance within 24 hours, by certified funds. No refunds. The property will NOT be open for inspection. Prospective bidders are admonished to check the court file to verify all information. For information call Sales Department at Plaintiff’s Attorney, Law Offices of Ira T. Nevel, 175 North Franklin Street, Suite 201, Chicago, Illinois 60606. (312) 357-1125. 2300555

INTERCOUNTY JUDICIAL SALES CORPORATION intercountyjudicialsales.com I3267963

Submit events and see full calendar at rblandmark.com/events

WHATEVER MAKES YOU FEEL WHOLE, CHASE IT.

Feeling whole is close at hand. Because we’ve connected the whole-person care of AdventHealth and the specialties of UChicago Medicine, including oncology, neurosciences and cardiology, for the best of both worlds. Excellence and convenience. Compassion and expertise. Extraordinary care for every day and virtually every need.

Discover the power of partnership at: HealthyChicagoland.org