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D95 school board, teachers agree on new 3-year contract

Deal calls for 5% annual raises, district to contribute more for insurance premiums

By BOB SKOLNIK Contributing Reporter

Teachers in Brookfield-LaGrange Park School District 95 have a new three-year contract that gives them 5% raises in each year of the contract. Members of the District 95 school board voted 5-0 to approve the new contract at their June 15 meeting

“I’m glad we were able to come to an agreement on it,” said Katie Mulcrone the president of the District 95 school board. “I think it was a good contract on both ends.”

Mulcrone and board member Jacqui Jordan represented the school board on the administration’s negotiating team.

Katie Richards, an art teacher at S.E. Gross Middle School who was on the teachers

union negotiating team, said she was pleased with the new contract.

“I think it’s very fair,” Richards said.

Union members had approved the new contract prior to the school board meeting, but it wasn’t unanimous. The Landmark has learned that 72% of union members voted in favor of the new deal.

The union and the district hammered out the contract during seven negotiating sessions. Negotiations began in February and concluded in May when the two sides reached an agreement. The deal begins with the new academic fiscal year on July 1, 2023 and expires June 30, 2026.

Under the terms of the new contract, the starting salary for a teacher with a bachelor’s degree and no experience will rise to $48,632, which is slightly higher than the $47,638 salary such a teacher will earn in Riverside Elementary District 96.

The starting salary for a teacher with a master’s degree and no experience will be $53,039, which also is slightly higher than the $52,400 the same teacher would earn next year in District 96.

Unlike District 96, however, teachers in

District 95 do not get annual step raises in addition to base-pay raises. Instead, District 95 teachers with advanced degrees and graduate credit hours are paid more than teachers who only have bachelor’s degrees.

There are separate salary lanes for teachers depending on their levels of education. A teacher with 15 graduate hours gets $1,000 added to the base salary, while a teacher with a master’s de gree gets $3,500 added to the base salary.

The contract adds a new salary lane for teachers with a master’s de gree and 60 additional graduate credit hours, which comes with $1,500 added to the base salary. There are now six separate salary lanes for teachers.

Under the new contract the district will pay the same 85% share of single coverage for medical insurance for teachers during the first two years of the contract, but the district share of single medical insurance will increase to 90% in the final year of the contract. The district will pay 65% of the cost for family health insurance, which is a significant increase. The district will pay 100% of the cost of dental insurance.

“They got a significant increase in board contribution for insurance as it relates to employee plus either family or child,” said Superintendent Mark Kuzniewski.

Teachers made other gains. Teachers will now be allowed to do some teacher-parent conferences remotely. There are two for mal teacher conference days in the fall; one may now be done remotely.

“They got a shorter amount of time for requirements after school, whether it be parent-teacher conferences or other required evenings,” Kuzniewski said.

Teachers also got an increase in pre-retirement pay boosts. Teachers can get pay boosts of no more than 6% in their final few years. These pay boosts increase teachers’ pensions Teachers who have taught at District 95 for 15 years or more will receive a post-retirement payment of $1,250 for each year they taught in District 95 up to a maximum of $30,000.

Teachers received an additional bere avement day, bringing the total of bereavement days a teacher can take in a school year to four.

The new contract replaces a five-year contract that gave teachers 3% annual raises

London Ice Cream opens its doors in downtown Riverside

Sweet treats scooped up seven days a week on East Avenue

By JACKIE PISANO

Contributing

Reporter

For nearly a decade, the village of Riverside has been without an ice cream parlor of its own.

With the 2013 closure of the longtime, beloved Grumpy’s Cafe, the village lost a local hangout for kids and families, leaving Riversiders craving a cool treat to venture into neighboring towns on hot summer days or for that perfect after-dinner dessert.

But last month, just in time for the start of summer, London Ice Cream Shop opened its doors at 38 East Ave. in downtown Riverside, promising the charming, old-fashioned dessert parlor local residents had been craving.

Sara Flores, a Riverside resident and owner of London Ice Cream Shop, says the driving force to set up shop in the village was simple — it’s her way of contributing something special to kids and f amilies in the place she calls home

“I decided to open a business in Riverside for the same reason that I decided to live here,” she said. “It’s a beautiful, f amily-oriented town and tight-knigh community. Everyone is so kind friendly and welcoming — Riverside feels like one big family.”

T hough the ic cream parlor is F lores’ first venture into the dessert business, she’ no stranger to being a business owner

Twelve years ago, she opened her first establishment, a women’s clothing shop called Piel & Canela, on Cermak Road in Cicero, which still operates today

T hen, in 2021, F lores helped her daughter, Gisela Munoz, launch Catrina Tequila Bar, just steps from the ice cream parlor,

which offers robust cocktail offerings with a limited menu of Mexican small plates in an artistic environment with vibrant decor reflective of the Mexican celebration of Day of the Dead. So last year, when a spot right next door to Catrina became available, F lores figured, why not take the plunge and open her own business and contribute to the friendly, small-business feel the village works hard to foster?

“I don’ t just see London as a business — I wanted to create a place where everyone feels comfortable hanging out at and socializing,” F lores said. “It’s a place where f amilies can spend time to g ether and just enjoy a sweet treat. Also, being located in Riverside gives me an opportunity to be closer to my daughter ’s business and be there to support and help her as well.”

As for the ice cream parlor’s name, it’s due to the village’s old-world feel, according to F lores.

“I came up with the name London Ice Cream Shop because being in the center of town at night, with the historical buildings and oil-lit lamps, I can’t help but feel like I’m in quaint London square,” she said.

Flores said she hopes the shop can quickly become a town favorite.

“We want to make London a reflection of the town and get to know everyone, as well as hear suggestions on how we can achieve that,” she said.

Along with traditional ice cream offerings, such as scoops in waffle cones, banana splits and milkshakes, some of the specialty items at London Ice Cream Shop include unique flavors like guava, pomegranate and hazelnut, and desserts such as macarons, tiramisu and chocolate-covered strawber ries, among other treats.

London Ice Cream Shop is open Mondays through T hursdays from 11:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m., F ridays and Saturdays from 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Sundays from noon to 8 p.m.

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JACKIE PISANO

Riverside resident Sara Flores (above) said the village’s quaint downtown character inspired the name of her new business, London Ice Cream Shop. Below, one of the shop’s signature banana splits.

BIG WEEK

June 21-28

Walking tour of Riverside

The Frederick Law Olmsted Society continues its walking tours of Riverside on June 25. The tour will cover the area south of the railroad tracks. Tickets are $20 ($15 for seniors 62+ and Olmsted Society members).

Tour groups depart at 2 p.m. from the Riverside Train Depot (east side of platform) at 90 Bloomingbank Road. Register in advance (PayPal or credit card) at olmstedsociety.org. Cash/ checks also accepted. Customized tours available by appointment. Email tours@olmstedsociety.com or call 708-447-7635.

And more

■ Aging Care Connections, 111 W. Harris Ave. in LaGrange, presents Pride Café, a monthly in-person and virtual program providing space for LGBT+ seniors who are interested in age-related or LGBT+ related topics, discussion and social opportunities, on June 24 at 11 a.m. This month’s topic is “Stonewall Forever: History of Pride.” Contact Hanah Sebek at 708-603-2270 or hsebek@agingcareconnections.org to get the Zoom link or with questions.

■ The Frederick Law Olmsted Society and village of Riverside will hold a Landscape Workday on June 24 from 9 a.m. to noon at Big Ball Park (Longcommon and Delaplaine). Come for as long as you like.

Riverside Chess Club seeks players

The Riverside Chess Club invites players of all skills and ages to meet up for casual games weekly at the Riverside Public Library, 1 Burling Road

The club meets on Mondays from 5 to 7 p.m. and is open to anyone. Don’t have your own board? No problem.

For more info email TheRiversideChessClub@ gmail.com or visit facebook.com/TheRiversideChessClub.

How to become a U.S. citizen

Maria del Carmen Rodriguez, community relations o cer for U.S. Citizen and Immigration Services Chicago District 34, will give an overview of the eligibility and quali cation requirements for obtaining U.S. citizenship during “Naturalization 101: Becoming a U.S. Citizen” on June 22 at 6 p.m. in the Meeting Room of the Linda Sokol Francis Brook eld Library, 3541 Park Ave. The bilingual event will also provide an explanation of the naturalization process and the English language and civics examinations Register to attend by calling 708-485-6917 or at brook eld.evanced.info/signup

Concerts in the park

Nor th Riverside Parks & Rec kicks o its summer concert series on June 22 with Final Say, which plays top 40 hits to classics, from 7 to 9 p.m. in Commons Park, 2401 Desplaines Ave Bring chairs, blankets and friends to the free concert. No outside food/drink allowed. Concessions available for purchase. Concerts held indoors in case of inclement weather.

Brook eld continues its Summer Concert Series on June 23 at 7 p.m. Head to the bandshell in Kiwanis Park, Arden and Brook eld avenues in Brook eld, to catch the rock/pop of Key Suspects. Bring your coolers, blankets and chairs

Supervised children welcome. Bring work gloves and a water bottle. All other supplies and snacks provided. Look for the public works dump truck

■ The Riverside Farmers Market operates each Wednesday through Oct. 4 from 2:30 to 7 p.m. in Centennial Park, at Forest Avenue and Longcommon Road. The Brook eld Farmers Market returns every Saturday through Oct. 14 from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the parking lot of the Brook eld Village Hall, 8820 Brook eld Ave.

■ North Riverside Public Library, 2400 Desplaines Ave., presents Art Adventures (ages 2+ w/adult) on June 22 from 2-4 p.m., Lego Club (8-under) on June 23 at 4 p.m., Light-Up Canvas Painting (grades 6-12) on June 24 at 1:30 p.m., Big and

Little Storytime (children w/adult) on June 26 at 10:30 a.m., Science Explorers (8-under) on June 26 at 4:30 p.m., Koko’s Film Club screening of “Jaws” on June 27 at 2 p.m. and Safari ABCs (child w/adult, every other week in Spanish) on June 28 at 10:30 a.m. Register for programs online at northriversidelibrary.org/events-new.

■ Linda Sokol Francis Brook eld Library, 3541 Park Ave., presents Fairytale Storytime (all ages w/ caregiver) on June 22 at 10:30 a.m., Craft Craze: Marble Painting (grades 1-5) on June 22 at 4 p.m., Chair Zumba on June 23 at 1:30 p.m.; Live on the Plaza! The Art of In ation: A Balloon Show on June 24 at 11 a.m., Chair Yoga (virtual) on June 26 at 11 a.m., Chicago’s Lost Restaurants on June

26 at 7 p.m. and Stories Galore (all ages) on June 28 at 10:30 a.m. Call 708-485-6917 or visit online at brook eld.evanced.info/signup to register for programs.

■ Riverside Public Library, 1 Burling Road, presents Mindful Chair Yoga on June 22 at 11 a.m., Gardening on the Up & Up on June 22 at 2 p.m., Boost Your Brain and Memory on June 22 at 6 p.m., Friday Outdoor Storytime on June 23 at 10 a.m., Mindfulness Together meditation on June 23 at 11 a.m., Legopalooza on June 24 at 10 a.m., Little Hands Activity Time on June 27 at 10 a.m. and Bingo (all ages) on June 28 at 11 a.m. To register for programs, visit online at riversidelibrary. org/events

Longtime RBTV head retiring after 37 years

Gary Prokes built a prog ram that launched many careers in broadcasting

By BOB SKOLNIK Contributing Reporter

Gary Prokes, the longest serving current faculty member at Riverside-Brookfield High School and the man who built RBTV into an award-winning powerhouse that launched many students into careers in television and video production, is retiring.

Earlier this month, Prokes unexpectedly turned in his resignation letter. His job was posted on the school’s website June 8. That was the first time many of his colleagues learned he was retiring.

Prokes grew up in North Riverside and graduated from RBHS in 1979. He began working at the school in 1986 when he replaced Lucas Palermo, the head of the school’s audio-visual department who left to become a professor at Columbia College Palermo had played a key role in establishing RBTV and was something of a mentor to Prokes.

When Prokes began working at RBHS nearly 37 years ago, there were only six students taking television classes. In the nearly four decades since, he and RBTV became a constant presence at school events, broadcasting school board meetings, first on a delayed basis and live since 2011, in addition to football and basketball games, plays, pep rallies, graduation and the RBEF telethon.

The station also broadcasts original shows such as “Kev-Head Tonight,” which featured for mer RBHS music teacher Kevin McOlgan and “Cook This!” and “Coffee with Kosey,” featuring Riverside-Brookfield Landmark columnist JoAnne Kosey. The station airs locally on Channel 16 and broadcasts 24 hours a day, seven days a week, often airing reruns

“Gary Prokes has been a fantastic employee and really a cornerstone of RB,” said Superintendent Kevin Skinkis. “His history and knowledge about the district and high school, all the great things that have happened at RB, whether he captured them for RBTV or through telethons or the different guests he’s hosted on student shows.”

Under Prokes’ supervision RBTV students have won scores of awards and many have gone on to careers in the business. Students past and present say that Prokes, who had no for mal training in teaching,

was a superb but exacting teacher.

“He can be very serious at times and he definitely knows how to teach kids very well; you can tell he really cares,” said Delilah Luna Del Castillo, who graduated from RBHS last month and worked the June school board meeting for RBTV as an audio engineer and will study film and television at Columbia Colle ge, where Prokes has been an adjunct professor, teaching television production.

Prokes graduated from Drake University in 1983 with a double major in radio/TV and English. He worked in production for KCCI-TV in Des Moines, a CBS affiliate, as a producer for Continental Cablevision in Chicago and as the director of public access TV for the village of Western Springs before coming to RBHS in 1986 to re place Palermo.

But RBTV was his life’s work. He brought professional experience and standards to a fledging high school television station. For many RBTV students being part of it was a life-changing experience. Many got their introduction to RBTV in a summer workshop for incoming freshmen that Prokes taught. Once they got a taste of it, they were hooked.

“That summer fully changed my life direction; it happened that fast,” said Bryan Smaller, 30, and a 2010 RBHS graduate, noting that he only signed up for the summer workshop because he wanted to get familiar with the RBHS building before he started his freshman year.

Smaller is now a senior colorist -- someone who adds more vivid color to video in the post-production process -- at Company3, the largest post-production company in the world.

Based in Santa Monica, California, Smaller has won three Emmy Awards for his work, one for the pregame video for Super Bowl LI and two for his work on NFL 360, a show on the NFL Network.

Smaller, like many RBTV alums, credit their careers and professional success to the great start they got at in the program.

“Going into RBTV meant that I was immediately thrown into what felt very much like adult problem-solving,” Smaller recalled. “I was thrown immediately into challenges that I had never experienced as a 13-year-old, much less had I been a leader of anyone.”

Prokes encouraged students to contact A-list celebrities to invite them to appear

on RBTV shows.

“He had me emailing Michael Jordan; he had me emailing Oprah, I’m not kidding,” Smaller said. “Just by us putting us in that situation, he taught me that the world is malleable.”

Dan Svoboda, a 2008 RBHS graduate who now works in video production for Itascabased Diversified Labeling Solutions after a stint at the University of Chicago and as a project manager for Apple, says RBTV was the focal point of his high school experience.

“Some of my fondest memories of high school are with that man,” Svoboda said. “He had a very unique ability to tell when I was phoning it in and would not accept it.”

Prokes, who declined to be interviewed for this story but answered a few questions by email, typically stayed in the background. He let his students shine.

In the second-floor RBTV studio, Prokes was in complete control. He put in long hours working, supervising and helping students.

Patty Sarkady, an applied arts teacher at RBHS, worked closely with Prokes during her first 10 years at the school when she taught a class in broadcast news. The two had met at Columbia Colle ge, and Prokes was largely responsible for bringing Sarkady to RBHS.

“He is a teacher who expects high quality, yet he works with them to teach them how to do the best production possible,” Sarkady said.

“He sits one on one with those students and works with them to challenge each one to their level so they can produce high quality product.”

While at RBTV, Prokes managed the transition from analog and three-quarter inch tape to digital production. He led the construction of a second studio in what had been the balcony of the Little Theater.

It is not clear who will re place Prokes.

“The position has been posted on all of our channels that we do when we have an opening, so we will start searching for candidates ASAP,” Skinkis said.

Whoever takes over the position, it will probably be impossible to truly replace Prokes.

“He loves to work; he loves the challenge of creating,” Sarkady said. “Very tough shoes to fill.”

Gary Prokes (wearing headphones) gives directions to stude nt production assistants in the RBTV control booth dur ing the 2018 RBEF Telethon. He is retiring a er 37 years at the head of the program, which he largely built from the ground up.

By Linda Sokol Francis. E.A.

SOME TAX CONSIDERATIONS FOR PEOPLE WHO ARE SEPARATING OR DIVORCING: PART I

When people go through a legal separation or divorce, the change in their relationship status also affects their tax situation. The IRS considers a couple married for filing purposes until they get a final decree of divorce or separate maintenance.

Update withholding: When someone becomes divorced or separated, they usually need to file a new Form W-4 with their employer to claim the proper withholding. If they receive alimony, they may have to make estimated tax payments. The Tax Withholding Estimator tool on IRS.gov can help people figure out if they’re withholding the correct amount.

Understand the tax treatment of alimony and separate maintenance: Amounts paid to a spouse or a former spouse under a divorce decree, a separate maintenance decree, or a written separation agreement may be alimony or separate maintenance

payments for federal tax purposes. Certain alimony or separate maintenance payments are deductible by the payer spouse, and the recipient spouse must include it in income.

However, individuals can’t deduct alimony or separate maintenance payments made under a divorce or separation agreement executed after 2018 or executed before 2019 but later modified if the modification expressly states the repeal of the deduction for alimony payments applies to the modification. Alimony and separate maintenance payments received under such an agreement are not included in the income of the recipient spouse.

PO

Security cameras coming to golf club after theft spree

Riverside Golf Club General Manager

Will Her man said last week that the club intends on installing security cameras in its parking lot and a license-plate reader camera at the Desplaines Avenue entrance after a spate of three vehicle thefts and a vehicle break-in within the past month.

The club also has now scheduled a valet, who will monitor the parking lot and look out for any suspicious activity, a move that turned out to be helpful to police in investigating the latest incident on June 10.

The valet called police at 3:05 p.m. after witnessing a burglary to a vehicle and an attempted break-in about an hour apart involving a gray Toyota Prius with California license plates

Around 2 p.m., according to the employee, he saw a man get out of the Prius and enter the passenger side door of an unlocked vehicle. The man then exited the car and re-entered the Prius, which drove out of the club’s gates onto Desplaines Avenue.

According to the victim, a pair of sunglasses were missing from the center console of the vehicle.

About an hour later, the same Prius entered the parking lot again and pulled up to a vehicle whose windows were down about 3 inches. The same offender from the earlier incident got out of the Prius with a “jimmy” and approached the parked car.

However, the man apparently saw that he was being watched, causing him to get back into the Prius, which drove off.

With information about the make of the car and the California plates, police used a license-plate reader at the North Riverside Park Mall to track the car to the parking lot there.

Police located the Prius and observed a set of golf clubs on the back seat. The golf bag had a LaGrange Country Club tag on it. Police were later able to confirm that an employee of LaGrange Country Club had golf clubs stolen from his car earlier that day but had not reported the theft yet.

Herman said that a number of Chicagoarea golf clubs have been experiencing thefts this year and in past years, although this is a new phenomenon at Riverside Golf Club

“Every year this happens; it’s nothing

new,” Herman said. “Once it happens once, they will try, try again until they’re stopped.”

Police reported that a license plate reader camera recorded the Prius leaving the mall property just before 6 p.m., prior to police getting confirmation of the golf club theft in LaGrange. The investigation continues and both the vehicle and suspects remain at large.

Burglary

■ North Riverside police responded to the 2300 block of 4th Avenue on June 12 at about 1 p.m. after a resident called to report what appeared to be a burglary in progress.

The victim told police he was inside the house sleeping when he heard the sound of glass break. Upon investigating, he reported seeing someone wearing a dark-colored hoodie in his kitchen.

That person fled the residence through the front door. Police observed a broken windowpane on a side door, where the offender gained entrance. Nothing was reported missing from the home.

■ An employee at North Riverside Park Mall, 7501 Cermak Road, called police on June 15 at about 5 p.m. to re port that someone had broken into his vehicle, which had been parked in the southwest lot near J.C. Penney since 10:45 a.m.

The rear passenger window was smashed out and the interior had been ransacked, but nothing was reported missing. Security cameras recorded video of the breakin, which involved a Chrysler 300 that had been reported stolen out of Chicago on June 13.

The Chrysler is seen circling the lot a few times before parking next to the victim’s vehicle. Someone exits the vehicle, smashed the window, gets in and then exits before driving away.

These items were obtained from police reports filed by the Ri verside, North Ri verside and Brookfield police departments, June 6-15, and re present a portion of the incidents to which police responded. Unless otherwise indicated, anybody named in these re ports has only been charged with a crime. These cases have not been adjudicated.

— Compiled by Bob Uphues

Graduate, dad rip RBHS administration over cyberbullying

Call for o cials to crack down on senior ‘confessions’ tradition on Twitter

By BOB SKOLNIK Contributing Reporter

High school graduation is an important moment in a teenager’s life. But one member of the Riverside-Brookfield High School Class of 2023 chose not to attend the graduation ceremony last month, because she was hurt by a mean-spirited comment on Twitter that was part of what has become an unsavory senior tradition.

On the night before graduation some seniors post, sometimes anonymously, on Twitter under the hashtag #LastNightasanRBseniorConfessions, often cringeworthy “confessions,” often of a sexual nature, about their time in high school.

The senior confessions hashtag and tradition at RBHS dates from at least 2016. This year, a zero-follower account bearing the name of an RBHS senior – posted about classmate Kira Conroy, saying he had a crush on her “throughout middle school till she got fat.”

Conroy, a standout volleyball player at RBHS who set a school record last fall for the most digs in a single season and was named the Metro Suburban Red Conference’s most valuable player in volleyball, saw the post on the morning of graduation and was distraught.

Although she attended the graduation rehearsal that morning, she skipped the senior

self to attend her graduation ceremony that evening

“An hour before the ceremony she showed us the tweet, and told us that she wasn’t going to participate (in the graduation ceremony),” said an incensed Brian Conroy, Kira’s father at the June 13 meeting of the RBHS Board of Education. “My daughter was bawling, my wife was devastated, I was infuriated.”

Kira Conroy, 18, also spoke at the June 13 meeting immediately following her father, a for mer Brookfield village trustee and a former District 95 school board member

Appearing poised and confident, she pointed out to the school board that suicide is the second leading cause of death among those aged 10 to 24 and that cyberbullying increases the risk of depression, anxiety and suicidal thoughts in teenagers

“The negative body image perpetuated by cyberbullying incidents that focus on appearance, such as calling someone ‘fat’, can contribute to the development of disordered eating patterns and a distorted selfperception,” she said. “I’m grateful for being in a place in my own mental health journey esponse to such a hurtful state-

ment is to advocate for the school to do better, while hopefully preventing future students from experiencing what I have.”

Both Kira and Brian Conroy expressed disappointment with how school administrators reacted to their complaints about the tweet. Immediately after his daughter showed him the tweet, Conroy said he went to RBHS, arriving about one hour before the graduation ceremony.

He said he had a brief conservation with Dean Alberto Jaquez, who called in Principal Hector Freytas. Conroy asked Freytas to take action and to at least question the male student under whose name the tweet about his daughter was posted

According to Conroy, Freytas told him that there would have to be an investigation and that anyone can create a Twitter account. Conroy said he asked Freytas if he had asked, or would ask, the student under whose name the comment was made if he had indeed made the tweet. According to Conroy, Freytas said the student could just deny it, implying that questioning the student would be pointless.

“Dr. Freytas did nothing,” Brian Conroy told the school board. “Not only did he not ask the question, he embraced the individual involved when he walked across the stage and received his diploma, and in so doing, enabled him.”

Freytas did not respond to an email from the Landmark asking about his response to the comments of Brian and Kira Conroy

A week before graduation, Freytas sent a message to all seniors asking them to “be a good digital citizen and avoid negative social media commentary know[n] as ‘RB Senior Confessions.’”

School board president Deanna Zalas had little to say about the incident or the com-

ments of the Conroys.

“Social media has toxic elements, but I will not comment on a specific student discipline matter,” Zalas told the Landmark.

There was apparently no discipline involved, and less than 24 hours after the tweet, the student who may have sent it was no longer an RBHS student.

Kira Conroy was also disappointed by Freytas’ reaction to the tweet.

“For the last four years, Dr. Freytas has preached that ‘we love you, we care for you, and we have your back,’” Kira Conroy told the Landmark. “Unfortunately, in this situation, I felt none of those things.”

Brian Conroy said that no RBHS administrator reached out to his daughter in the aftermath. Both Conroys called on the school board and administration to do more to stop the senior confessions tradition or at least monitor it more closely.

“I often tell my children that there are two types of people, those that let things happen and those that make things happen,” Brian Conroy told the school board. “The administration has demonstrated that they are willing to let things happen. You have a problem here. It is time to get in the weeds a bit and shake things up.”

Kira Conroy spoke with more sadness than anger

“The fact that someone can openly bully and verbally attack another student without any repercussions from the school leads students to believe that his behavior is not only accepted, but allowed,” Kira Conroy told the school board. “At the end of the day I lost respect for the administration and the relationships I thought I had with my superiors. More than anything it makes me sad and disappointed that this was how my four years at RB came to a close. So do better.”

RBTV

Kira Conroy speaking at the RBHS board meeting about cyberbullying on June 13.

Two with local ties appointed Cook County judges

Two people with ties to Riverside and Brookfield, who both ran unsuccessfully in the in the June 2022 primary election to be the Democratic nominee for a judicial vacancy in Cook County’s 4th Judicial Subcircuit, had those disappointments erased earlier this year.

In March, for mer longtime Brookfield resident Jerry Barrido was among 22 people appointed Cook County associate judges by dge Timothy C. Evans. Barrido, 50, a Riverside-Brookfield High School graduworked as an associate Cook County public defender aduating from DePaul University Law School in 1999. On June 7, Marcia M. ive Office of the Illinois Courts, announced that Barrido was one of 396 Illinois associate judges reappointed to serve a four-year term beginning July 1.

In April, the Illinois Supreme Court announced the appointment of verside resident Chloe Pedersen to the countywide Cook County Circuit Court vacancy created in 2022 when Judge Debra Walker was elected to the Illinois Court of Appeals.

Pedersen, for merly a partner in the firm Fletcher & Sippel LLC who handled employment law cases on behalf of employers and was chief legal and labor counsel for the Cook County Recorder of Deeds prior to that, was sworn in May 12. Her term as judge expires Dec. 2, 2024.

Author, author!

Jeanne Sheehan, the founder and longtime writer/producer of the Riverside

Township Theater Guild, has written “Theater Kids: The One Where They All Become Friends,” a novel that follows the lives of three girls who, during a summer theater camp, come in as outsiders but leave with friends.

Local readers will reco gnize Riverside as the backdrop for the book, and the description of the noodle ball games in the pool and the show at the town hall should stir up a lot of memories for all who have participated in the township’s theater camps through the years.

The book is available on Amazon. Anyone who has questions can email to dr.jeanne.sheehan@gmail.com.

AAUW awards scholarships

The Riverside chapter of the American Association of University Women in May awarded $750 scholarships to a pair of RiversideBrookfield High School seniors, to be used toward their colle ge studies.

Brookfield resident Sarah Lindenberg received the AAUW’s STEM scholarship. She will be attending Iowa State University, studying horticultural research. The other scholar-

ship recipient, Riverside resident Olivia Buoscio, will attend Western Michig an University, pursuing a de gree in music education.

On campus

■ Katie Manika, the daughter of Colleen Manika of North Riverside and Jim Manika of Willow Springs, graduated from the University of Illinois Colle ge of Veterinary Medicine with a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine de gree in May.

She was also recently honored with the Dr. Erwin Small Scholarship, given to members of the Illinois student chapter of the American veterinary medical Association and Ome ga Tau Sigma with financial need. She will join Springbrook Animal Care center in Naperville as an associate veterinarian.

■ Kara Nedvar , of Brookfield, was awarded a Bachelor of Arts de gree in architecture during commencement ceremonies on May 20 at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in Troy, New York. Nedvar also made the 2023 spring semester dean’s list for earning a grade-point average of at least 3.5 on a 4-point

scale for the ter m.

■ Zachary Veselsky , of Brookfield, was among the roughly 5,900 students awarded diplomas at the University of Alabama’s spring commencement at Coleman Coliseum in Tuscaloosa. Veselsky earned a Bachelor of Science in commerce and business administration.

■ Thomas Russell, of Brookfield, graduated with a B.S. in management from Millikin University the school’s 2023 spring commencement ceremonies at the Kirkland Fine Arts Center on May 21.

■ Katie Culloden , of Riverside, was one of 98 seniors and juniors at Emerson Colle ge in Boston inducted into the school’s Gold Key Society during an April ceremony in the Semel Theater

T he Gold Key Society is an interdisciplinary organization founded in 1962 to reco gnize and encourage outstanding academic achievement. Culloden, a business creative enterprises major, was among the top 5% of juniors in her class eligible for the award.

■ Andrew Barnes , of Riverside, earned semester honors for the 2023 spring semester at Edgewood Colle ge in Madison, Wisconsin, for achieving a grade-point average of at least 3.5 on a 4-point scale for the semester.

■ Among those named to the 2023 spring semester dean’s list at Lewis University in Romeoville for earning semester GPAs of at least 3.5 were Brookfield residents Hlay Aliotte (computer science), Alexandra Bator (aviation flight technolo gy), Mia Hamilton (early childhood special education), William Koryzna (finance and accounting), Alyssa Krivak (nursing), Jane McLaren (secondary education and history), James Mizura (air traffic control management) and James Taylor (aviation flight management); North Riverside resident Daniela Ulloa (psycholo gy); and Riverside resident Tiffany Cer ny-Czykier (business analytics).

■ Charlie Buh , of Riverside, was named to the 2023 spring semester dean’s list at Miami University in Oxford, Ohio, for being ranked in the top 20% of undergraduate students in his division.

■ Brookfield resident Emilio Pizana and Riverside resident Nathan Sanchez were named to the 2023 spring semester

JERRY BARRIDO

JEANNE SHEEHAN

CHLOE PEDERSEN

Sarah Lindenberg and Olivia Buoscio

Sawa’s Old

2nd Annual Classic Car Show and Cook Out

Jr. Bulldogs named youth football all-stars

Three members of the Junior Bulldogs youth football program have been named all-stars by The Chicagoland Youth Football League and will represent the Junior Bulldogs at the All-TCYFL game, which will be played on July 15 at Mundelein High School.

Charlie Jicha, of North Riverside (Komarek School); Gabriel Schauer, of Brookfield (S.E. Gross Middle School); and Josef Stengl, of Riverside (Hauser Jr. High) will

dean’s list at DePauw University in Greencastle, Indiana, for achieving a semester GPA of at least 3.5.

■ Alexander Georgopoulos, of Riverside, was named to the 2023 spring semester dean’s list in the College of Arts and Science at the University of Kentucky for earning a GPA of at least 3.6 for the semester

■ Joseph Gilhooley, of Brookfield, has been named to the 2023 spring semester dean’s list at Loyola University Chicago’s Quinlan School of Business. Gilhooley’s

be eighth graders at area schools next fall and were members of the 2022 Junior Varsity Division championship team. They will move up to the varsity level next year.

TCYFL is an independent youth football league fielding hundreds of teams in 48 communities throughout the Chicago area and southern Wisconsin. More than 300 athletes ranging in age from kindergarten to eighth grade can participate in the Junior Bulldogs football and cheer programs.

semester GPA was 3.9.

■ Kailyn Ngo, of North Riverside, was named to the 2023 spring semester dean’s list at Olivet Nazarene University in Bourbonnais for attaining a semester GPA of at least 3.5.

■ North Riverside resident Mia Giurini was named to the 2023 spring semester president’s list at Trine University in Angola, Indiana, for attaining a semester GPA of least 3.75. Giurini is majoring in exercise science.

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

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

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

A safe & smart choice.

A safe & smart choice.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

OF OUR CALEDONIA STAFF IS VACCINATED

PROVIDED

Junior Bulldogs all-stars (from le ) Charlie Jicha, Gabriel Schauer and Josef Stengl

Music on Grand 2023 kicks o this weekend

Downtown Brook eld’s newest summer tradition features expanded outdoor dining, live musi c

By BOB UPHUES Editor

Music on Grand, perhaps one of best things resulting in Brookfield from the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, returns to the 3700 block of Grand Boulevard this weekend with expanded outdoor dining for three full days and a day’s worth of live entertainment on Saturday.

Originally conceived as a way to support restaurants and bars in the downtown area when indoor dining was banned, Music on Grand has quickly become a highly anticipated summer tradition. The event will be held monthly starting June 23-25 on the final weekend of each month through September

“When we did this [in 2020] there was no idea it would be this big,” said Village Manager Timothy Wiberg. “We did it as a lifeline to these businesses, thinking we’d give it a shot and try it. We went out kind of sheepishly that first night, and we were pleasantly surprised with the number of people who came out.”

The 3700 block of Grand Boulevard will be closed to all vehicular traffic from Fairview Avenue north to the midblock bump-out during Music on Grand. Tables and chairs will

be set up in designated areas for each restaurant and bar in that stretch of the block, with an open corridor for pedestrians down the center of Grand Boulevard

The street will be closed from early on Friday until early Monday morning, and a north-facing stage will be located at the south end of the block between Sebastian’s Ale & Whiskey House and Brookfield Breakfast.

Those driving to attend Music on Grand can park in the spaces along the Burlington Northern-Santa Fe Railroad line along Brookfield Avenue east of west of Prairie Avenue. There is additional parking along the railroad right-of-way south of the tracks along Burlington Avenue.

Expanded outdoor dining/beverage service will be available all three days during Music on Grand.

Live entertainment will be scheduled from 2 to 10 p.m. on Saturdays only, with June 25 featuring the blues-tinged rock of the Alex Hofer Band at 2 p.m., hometown favorites The Dooley Brothers around 4:30 p.m. and indie rockers The Heligoats from around 6-6:30 p.m.

Headlining the night’s entertainment from about 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. will be alt-rockers Newski.

CVS Listed for lease

from page 1

Avenue store will close July 20. All prescriptions will be transfer red to the CVS Pharmacy at 9139 Broadway Ave., Blanchette said, and employees of the Ogden Avenue store are being of fered “comparable roles within the company.”

“Maintaining access to pharmacy services in the communities we serve is an important factor we consider when making store closure decisions,” Blanchette said. “Other factors include local market dynamics, population shifts, a community’s store density, and ensuring there are other geographic access points to meet the needs of the community.”

In late 2021, CVS Health announced that following a strategic review retail business, the company would begin the process of closing 300 stores in the United States annually from 2022 to 2024.

The store at den Ave. has been in operation since 2003. At the time, the pharmacy company signed a longterm lease that was set to expire Jan. 31, 2029. The lease also included a tenant option for 10 fi -year extensions.

But the fact that there was another CVS in Brookfield – one the company in recent years renovated to create space for a CVS MinuteClinic and a CVS HealthHUB, which offer expanded health services and products – appears to have been a factor in the decision.

In 2021, CVS spent about $300,000 on the interior remodel of the Broadway Avenue store and spent another $45,000 to upgrade the parking lot in 2022.

“Obviously, it always worried us with two stores [in Brookfield] that one of them would close,” Brookfield Village Manager Wiberg said. “But they’ve invested quite a bit in the Eight Corners store, and it was my impression that they always had placed a higher interest in the Eight Corners store.”

CVS leases the store on Broadway Avenue from Oakbrook Terrace-based Gonsa Field LLC, which purchased the property

in 2007.

Wiberg said that while the loss of CVS on Ogden Avenue would be a blow, “the village will work with whoever to get a successful business there. We want to ensure the vibrancy of Ogden Avenue.”

As for what will re place CVS on Ogden Avenue, the Landmark learned from someone connected to the Ogden Avenue store that the location would be giving way to a Dollar General store. The Landmark could not independently confirm that claim.

Steve Schwartz, senior vice president for the commercial real estate firm JLL which is listing the property for lease, responded to an inquiry from the Landmark last week with a statement revealing few details.

“JLL can confirm there are discussions relating to the future occupancy of the

Oak Park Commons Cohousing

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decide to vacate the premises, we will be responsible for identifying a future tenant at the location. Given discussions are ongoing, we will not have any further comment.”

As recently as June 14, the property had been listed for sale online at a list price of more than $4 million. The listing had marketed the property as a turnkey investment occupied by a tenant on a long-term lease.

The following day, the property was being advertised “for lease” by JLL, a commercial real estate investment firm with offices across the U.S., Europe, the Middle East, Africa and Asia.

JLL does not own the property, said a spokesman for the company. The Cook County Recorder of Deeds has not recorded a transfer of ownership for the property since 2021.

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LEADING THE WAY in Patient Safety

You’re Safe With Us.

Providing outstanding health care includes keeping every patient safe and secure. At UChicago Medicine AdventHealth Hinsdale, we’re honored to be recognized as one of America’s highest-rated hospitals for patient safety by The Leapfrog Group.

In fact, we have received the “A” rating for 10 years in a row. We are only one of 34 hospitals nationwide to achieve this honor. It’s one more way we’re working to help you feel whole.

Learn more at UChicagoMedicineAdventHealth.org.

Tough act to follow

There aren’t too many people so important to a business or an organization that you could not function without them, but Gary Prokes may just be one of those people

We asked around, and this is what Dan Svoboda, a 2008 RBHS graduate whose experience at RBTV launched his career in video production, had to say.

“He is irreplaceable,” Svoboda told Landmark reporter Bob Skolnik.

Prokes’ program was fertile ground for those seeking to enter careers in broadcasting. Some, like Bryan Smaller, a 2010 graduate, would go on to win Emmy Awards. Others play key roles in broadcast projects closer to home

Riverside TV Commission Chairman Colin Hughes, himself a filmmaker, is a program graduate, as is Riverside TV production supervisor Lorenzo Cordova. Those working the cameras as Riverside TV broadcasts meetings of the Riverside village and township boards, the meetings of Riverside School District 96 and the many events the station broadcasts throughout the year are, without fail, RBTV students or grads.

Prokes molded RBTV, mentoring students while keeping abreast of the always advancing technology, shifting from analog to tape to digital production and creating a state-of-the-art broadcast studio

While such operations aren’t unknown at the high school level, they often are mostly found at larger institutions, like Lyons Township High School. For a school with an enrollment of around 1,600 students, a TV/video production program such as RBTV is remarkable.

Of course, some of the credit should go to the high school’s administration for providing the funding needed to build the broadcast studio and equipment to keep it up-to-date and of real educational value

We hope in the future that such a commitment is maintained. School board candidates in recent years have talked about the need for RBHS to provide educational opportunities for those seeking vocations after high school.

RBTV was an example of such a program, and it has had a profound effect on many, many students who found a home both in front of and behind the cameras and microphones.

But the main reason the program is so highly thought of by those who cut their teeth learning camera operation, broadcast direction, video and sound editing and post-production, is because of Prokes

His dedication to his students and to the work itself was an example those students could internalize and take with them wherever their futures led them – to college, to filmmaking, to commercial video production, to Riverside TV and beyond Is Svoboda correct, that Prokes is irreplaceable? We’re about to find out.

Remembering the big heart of Father Cy

Last week’s column contained a small paragraph on the late Rev. M. Cyril Nemecek, the pastor emeritus of Mater Christi Church in Nor th Riverside. When talking with Bob Uphues, my editor, he suggested I should write a column on Father Nemecek, the priest and man.

My first encounter with Fr. Cy was when I was a teacher at Mater Christi School when he was pastor. Our first real conversation came as we were both picking up our Market Day orders. He did his own cooking and Market Day helped him plan his meals. He asked me how I was, and I told him my mother had just entered the hospital. He turned around, set his items down and spent time with me. Something I never forgot.

JOANNE KOSE Y

There was a playful side to Fr. Cy. A few of us at school referred to him as “our bookie.” Here’s the story and I’m sticking to it. When the Triple Crown of racing took place each year, our bookie would make his appearance. This was all Fr. Cy’s idea, and we eagerly went along with it.

When he came over to school, it was time to place

OBITUARIES

William J. Hejna, 65 Hospital administrator

William “Bill” Joseph Hejna, of Elk Rapids, Michigan, died peacefully with his daughters at his side on June 6, 2023, at the age of 65.

Bill was born on August 13, 1957 to Bill and Gerry Hejna in St. Louis. He spent the majority of his childhood and adult years in Riverside, graduating from RiversideBrookfield High School in 1975. He attended Knox College for his undergraduate degree, and the University of Michigan, where he received a master’s degree in hospital administration in 1981.

your bets. He would come to school with what we called his fishing hat to hold the bets. We would only bet on one race at a time. The number of horses in the race determined the cost of a bet, 50 cents to $4.

No one was allowed to purchase too many so as not give more people a chance to win. Come Monday morning we would see him make the trek across 10th Avenue to play of f his customers. He was an honest bookie. A few times we even bet on the Indianapolis 500.

I was also told if you ever gave Fr. Cy a gift of money, he would gift it right to the school, which came first with him, sometimes bypassing his own needs.

Case in point, his trench coat -- he needed a new one. So, we purchased one. He questioned why we would buy him a new one. Our re ply, “We were tired of seeing him in his old Columbo trench coat.”

He accepted the gift and I’m sure it was the last trench coat he had.

More to write but space prohibits. By the way, the “M” stood for Milan. He bet they find a big heart.

fishing, cooking, spendin time with family and noodling around on a guitar wh ing to John Prine.

Bill was the family and keeper of memorabilia. As the oldest of his four he served as captain of jna family ship after his parents passed. He was witty, gent, and enjoyed holding while sampling one of White’s amazing pies — always producing the perfect, usually sarcasti ation.

Bill was a man full of tures, including unique and FaceTime chats with his grandsons. He will be

Our best to Gary Prokes in retirement. You’ve built a remarkable program. See OBITUARIES on pa

He went on to have a successful career as a hospital administrator and consultant, serving a number of healthcare facilities in the Chicago area. Upon retirement, Bill moved to Elk Rapids to enjoy his passions, boating,

I wanted to take a moment to address an important occasion that is often overlooked and under-celebrated: Juneteenth. With this letter I would like to share my thoughts on the significance of Juneteenth and why it deserves our attention and support.

Juneteenth, also known as Freedom Day or Emancipation Day, commemorates the liberation of enslaved African Americans in the United States. On June 19, 1865, Union General Gordon Granger arrived in Galveston, Texas, and proclaimed the end of slavery, two and a half years after the Emancipa-

tion Proclamation was signed. Juneteenth represents a pivotal moment in American history, signifying the emancipation of enslaved people.

For many of us within the white community, Juneteenth might not have been widely recognized or even acknowledged until recent years. However, it is crucial for us to understand that Juneteenth holds immense importance for all Americans, irrespective of our racial or ethnic backgrounds.

Juneteenth serves as a reminder of the systemic injustices that have plagued our

survived by his brother Edward, sister Paula Shea and sister-in-law Barbara

nation. Recognizing the past and its impact on the present allows us to reflect on the legacy of slavery and the ongoing struggle for equality. Juneteenth symbolizes hope, resilience and progress. By acknowledging and commemorating this day, we honor the progress made towards racial equality, while also recognizing the work that still lies ahead

In conclusion, Juneteenth is a momentous occasion that deserves our attention, respect, and active participation. Riverside, by resolution, was one of the first communities in Illinois to officially recognize Juneteenth as a

Juneteenth deserves our attention, respect LETTERS OBITUARIES

continued from page 13

family first and foremost, and sorely missed by many.

He was preceded in death by his two sons, Will and Joe Hejna. Bill is survived by his devoted daughters, Katie (Adam and sons, Sawyer and Elliott) and Maggie; grandsons Ferris and Dawson; brothers David (ex-wife Nancy Garber) and Michael (Michelle); sister Susan (Rich); ex-wife Nancy; and numerous beloved nieces, nephews and their related spouses and progeny; and a host of neighbors and community members who cared for him so thoughtfully.

Arrangements will be private

Richard J. Melanson, 79 Riverside resident

Richard J. Melanson, 79, of Riverside and for merly of Melrose, Massachusetts, died June 13, 2023 at his home with his wife by his side.

Mr. Melanson

graduated from Villanova University in 1966 and married Nancy on June 22, 1968.

He was the husband of Nancy; the father of Kristin Burns and the late Brendan; fatherin-law of Jim Burns and the grandfather of Liam, Unna and Cecilee Burns. He is also

There will be a memorial gathering on Wednesday, June 21 at St. Mary Church, 126 Herrick Road, Riverside at 1 p.m. followed by Mass at, 2 p.m.

The family respectfully requests no flowers. Memorial donations may be made to AdventHealth-Foundation for St. Thomas Hospice, 120 N. Oak St., Hinsdale, 60521 or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, Tennessee, 38105.

Ivins-Moravecek Funeral Home, Riverside, handled arrangements

Rev. Milan Cyril Nemecek, 88

Pastor emeritus of Mater Christi Church

Rev. Milan Cyril Nemecek, pastor emeritus of Mater

Christi Parish

North Riverside died June 4, 2023. He was 88 years old

Father Nemecek was born on July 1934, in Chicago. attended Quigley Preparatory Semi nary and the Uni versity of St. Mar of the Lake/Mundelein lein.

He was ordained to the priesthood on May 3, 1960, by Cardinal Albert Meyer, and celebrated his first Mass on May 8 at Ss. Cyril and Methodius Church in Chicago.

Fr Nemecek served as assistant pastor at

St. Denis Parish on St. Louis Avenue and Our Lady of Lourdes Parish on Keeler Street both in Chicago.

He was also assistant pastor at Our Lady of the Mount Parish and Mary, Queen of Heaven Parish both in Cicero.

From 1979 to 1992, Fr. Nemecek was pastor at St. Mary of Celle Parish in Berwyn, and from 1992 until 2004 he served as pastor at Mater Christi Parish.

Fr Nemecek served the archdiocese in other roles as well. He was assistant director of the Office of Urban Affairs and assistant secretary of the Commission on Human Relations and Ecumenism.

He was a delegate to the Interreligious Council on Urban Affairs, a member of the steering committee of the priests’ senate, a member of the compensation committee for Catholic school personnel, a consultant to Catholic Cemeteries and a member of the astors’ review board.

Fr Nemecek requested that his body be donated to Loyola University Medical Center. A memorial service will be celebrated in the near future.

Timothy Mesich, 52 School custodian

Timothy Mesich, 52, of Brookfield, died June 9, 2023. Mr. Mesich worked as a school custodian.

He was the son of the late John V. Mesich and the late Mary A. Mesich (nee Smith); the brother of Robert Mesich, Jacqueline McMillin, William James Mesich and William Joseph Mesich; and the uncle of many nieces and nephews.

Services and interment private. Inter-

holiday. I will have the honor of representing Riverside by attending several Juneteenth celebrations over the next couple weeks and at the same time I ask you all to take time to recognize and educate yourselves on the importance of this day.

Joseph Ballerine, village president Ri verside

Ed. Note: Joseph Ballerine first read this statement as part of his president’s re port during the June 15 meeting of the Ri verside Village Board.

ment at Resur rection Cemetery, Justice. Hitzeman Funeral Home, Brookfield, handled arrangements.

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

Angel V. Zermeno, 85 Worked for ComEd

Angel Veronica Zermeno (nee Chieffo), 85, of LaGrange, died June 10, 2023.

Ms. Zermeno was born March, 12, 1938 in Chicago. She worked for a railroad company and as a customer service representative for ComEd prior to retirement.

She was the mother of April Q. Ivy and Carey T. Zermeno; the grandmother of Robert Zermeno, Piper Ivy and Daniel Ivy; the great grandmother of Anthony Zermeno; the sister of the late Lucille Colonero, late Theresa Chieffo, late Lawrence Chief fo, late Dominic Chieffo and late Marie Ohnesorge; the aunt of Dominic Colonero, Lawrence Colonero, Philip Colonero, Lisa Chief fo and Janice Chieffo; and the great aunt of many.

Services have been held. Interment is at Queen of Heaven Cemetery, Hillside. Johnson-Nosek Funeral Home, Brookfield, handled arrangements.

Online condolences, memories and photos may be shared at JohnsonNosek.com.

RICHARD J. MELANSON

RE V. MILAN C YRIL NEMECEK

ANGEL V. ZERMENO

Cicic a standout as RBHS goes unbeaten at S ummer Shootout

Rising senior scores 86 points over 4 games

By BILL STONE

Contributing Reporter

Riverside-Brookfield High School rising senior Stefan Cicic wanted to make the most of the school’s 20th annual Summer Shootout.

The 6-foot-11 NCAA Division I prospect had one half of basketball remaining and the Bulldogs trailed in their final game by 11 points on June 17.

“The first half, for me, was rocky. I wasn’t getting back on defense, wasn’t really playing hard, but [RBHS coach Mike Reingruber] told me to be harder, pushing me a lot,” Cicic said. “The second half I think everyone really brought it to the table. And we closed out the game with a win.”

The Bulldogs’ 49-45 victory over Marian Catholic after trailing 31-20 at halftime was a satisfying finish to the annual event which ran from Friday through Sunday.

RBHS was among 12 teams in the 80-team field to win all four of their tournament games. More important, they played a strong final half with a dedication to team defense.

“I told the guys at halftime we’ve had a real good summer so far. It was a good opportunity to see what we’re made of,” Reingruber said. “There was no reason to panic. This is summer. This is an opportunity to get better. We just really needed to turn it up on the defensive end and they responded.”

RBHS began by beating Morton 61-23 and Hyde Park 83-41 on June 16 and Bradley-Bourbonnais 64-55 earlier on June 17. In all, 80 high schools participated in the three-day event, all playing four games of two 20-minute halves. Roughly 225 college coaches registered to attend.

“I think it fires you up. It fires me up for sure. I’m still looking [to play collegiately],” said RBHS rising senior Steven

Riverside-Brook eld High School rising senior Stefan Cicic scored 86 points in four games — all wins for the Bulldogs — during the school’s 2023 Summer Shootout on June 17 in Riverside.

Brown about his second Shootout. “Last year was a learning lesson for us. We went 0-4. We’re winning now, so that feels way better. There’s a lot of people that think we’re not good. We got to show them.”

Cicic, who already has four D-I of fers, led the Bulldogs with 86 points over the four tournament games. That included three 20-point plus performances with 29 against Bradley to share the tournament’s No. 4 single-game high.

Brown had 59 points with 20 points against Hyde Park. Others scoring points were rising seniors Landon Rivers, Sam Shelven and Ivan Ramos; rising juniors Danny Loftus, Bryce Grove, Mantas Sleinys and Maurice Turner; and rising sophomore Cameron Mercer.

“I think our chemistry right from the start has been pretty solid. It helps when you’ve got a Division I big man who can score different ways and is super unselfish. The rest of the guys, I think we pass the ball and are moving the ball really well and I think they’re having fun playing together,” Reingruber said.

“I’m really happy with our rising juniors and Cameron Mercer. He played tremendous the whole weekend. [They] all got a ton of experience, and we look for special things from them. It’s a talented group, a good group of kids.”

Cicic, Brown and Rivers are the only players with significant varsity experience from last season’s 26-6 Class 4A re-

gional finalist that won another Metro Suburban Conference Blue title. Rising senior Will Gonzalez transferred to Curie Last season, Cicic transferred to RBHS from Notre Dame, but he missed playing in the 2022 Shootout with an ankle injury.

“[Our goal is] just be better on defense, just build up more team chemistry so we can close out these games, not have to struggle with a comeback,” Cicic said.

“The team works really hard through camp and through practice and these guys are special. All of these young guys, they’re really pushing themselves to play hard and close out games so I really love the team and the group of guys.”

The Bulldogs finish out summer action with the Morris Shootout, another live event at Romeoville and a camp at Illinois-Chicago.

Reingruber said the RBHS Shootout has remained among the premier off-season events in the Chicago area because of a long list of contributors.

“It really is a group effort. It takes a community to make this happen and it’s a lot of fun,” Reingruber said.

“[Our players] help out a lot. Putting together this whole Shootout is a team effort from the coaching staff doing a lot of the work the day of to the administration giving us the opportunity to do this, to all of the parents helping with concessions, admissions, the hospitality room.”

STEVE JOHNSTON

LTHS gains valuable experience on the hardwood

Lions competitive at Summer Shootout but lose 3 of 4

By BILL STONE

Contributing Reporter

Lyons Township High School rising senior Br ady Chambers finished a w of summer boys b asketball at nual Riverside-Brookfield Shootout with tor n warmup jersey top.

T he Lions had hung tough in four g ames. The 6-foot-6 Chambers, State baseball pitching recr uit, and seniors Caleb Greer and Liam their only players that had significant sity minutes last high-school season.

“It was nice to see everyone just perience because a lot of juniors ha gotten the experience of playing in a sity g ame, some seniors as well,” Chambers said. “Everyone’s g etting more experience, getting better when they court. I think as it goes on, we better and better.”

T he Lions gained a great learning curv with multiple close games, losing to De La Salle 58-51 and Waubonsie Valley 40-39 on June 17 before beating Bartlett 66-63 and losing to Belleville East 55-39 on June 18.

“I think [we gained] a lot of how to come back in g ames, pl because we played a lot more athletic pl ers than we’ve played all summer, helped us,” said rising senior Michael Reilly. “Now we’ve got to practice bounding, going up with two hand like that.”

Greer (37 points), Taylor (35) and Chambers (28) were the Lions’ top scorers over the four g ames. Also scoring points were Reilly, rising seniors Jimmy Pajauskas, Will Sullivan, Max Hof fmann, Quinn Mulcrone and Tyler Kuta and rising juniors Ian Polonowski, Josh Gutier re z, Bobby Vespa and Gavin Carolan.

“We’ re g etting a lot of experience for guys, opportunities for kids that don’ t have much varsity experience, rolling different guys in and out,” LTHS coach Tom Sloan said.

“The coaches are g etting to see what guys can do. T he guys are g etting experience playing against high-level competition. Summer is all about experience and learning how to play against varsity-level players and teams.”

T he shootout is one of the b est around

From F riday through S unday, 80 teams played four g ames each consisting of two 20-minute halves. Roughly 225 colle ge coaches re gistered to attend

The Lions easily could have finished 3-1, but the situation experiences remain the true benefit. Against Waubonsie, the Lions rebounded a Warriors’ missed free throw with 8.5 seconds left but missed a running last-second shot.

“The scores of these games is really very secondary,” Sloan said. “As we’re going through our camp Monday through Friday we’re not doing a lot of Xs and Os. It’s skill development and concepts. If people are

keeping track of their record over the summer, that’s not what we ’re doing.”

T he Lions have a solid base from which to build another successful season. T hey graduated their entire starting lineup from a second straight Class 4A re gional championship team that included colle ge basketball players Nik Polonowski (Penn) and Jackson Nie go (Illinois Wesleyan).

“I feel like last year as a team we were just all really close, really tight and now this year we have a whole new team to build another great chemistry, have positive energy in the locker room, in the g ames, on the bench,” Reilly said.

“It’s been awesome because I’ve been able to watch Nik play, Jackson play, see how they handled pressure, how they played in g ames. It allowed me to come develop myself, have their g ame in my g ame.”

T he Lions will finish the Downers Grove South summer league in Lombard next week and also will participate in the Romeoville Shootout.

“If we can just ke ep building our chemi str y, I think we c an be a pretty soli d group. If we j ust ke ep wo rk ing hard, we c an be pretty g ood this year,” C hamber s said.

STEVE JOHNSTON

Lyons Township High School’s Brady Chambers (center) and Liam Taylor (r ight) battle for a rebound against De La Salle’s Richard Lindsey (le ) during the Lions’ 58-51 loss dur ing the Riverside-Brook eld High School Summer Shootout on June 17 in Riverside.

HELP WANTED

EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS AND RESPONSE COORDINATOR

The Village of Oak Park is seeking qualified candidates for the position of Emergency Preparedness and Response Coordinator in the Health Department/Village Manager’s Office. This position will coordinate disaster response, crisis management and medical countermeasure dispensing/ distribution activities for the Village of Oak Park, provide disaster preparedness training, and prepare emergency plans and procedures for natural (e.g., floods, earthquakes), wartime, or technological (e.g., nuclear power plant emergencies, hazardous materials spills, biological releases) or disasters. This single class position is also responsible for the complex administrative duties required for state, federal and local response processes and grant management. Applicants are encouraged to visit the Village of Oak Park’s website https:// www.oak-park.us/your-government/ human-resources-department.

Interested and qualified applicants must complete a Village of Oak Park application. First review of applications will be June 19, 2023.

SYSTEMS ANALYST

The Village of Oak Park is seeking qualified candidates for the position of Systems Analyst in the Information Technology Department. The ideal candidate will perform a variety of complex technical duties in design, application programming and development, PC configuration and support, testing and maintenance of the Village’s computer application systems and perform a variety of technical duties as required. Knowledge of a wide variety of computer programming languages and systems, such as, City View Permit, License & Inspection Suite, Laserfiche, ESRI ArcGIS, MS-SQL, Reporting Tools, Java and HTML is wanted. Interested and qualified applicants must complete a Village of Oak Park application by visiting the website https://www.oakpark.us/your-government/human-resources-department. This position is open until filled.

Level I Bond Traders (2) sought by Millennium Advisors, LLC for the Chicago, IL loc. Candidates must have a Master ’s deg in Fin’l Mathematics, Quantitative Finance, or Computational Finance. Master’s deg coursework must incl: Computing for Finance/Computational Finance, Risk Mgmt, Stochastic Calculus, Options, Fin’l Time Series, Machine Learning & Mkt Microstructure. Must submit resume & transcripts. Respond to: Attn: Debbie Hickey, 11605 North Community House Rd., Ste 550, Charlotte, NC 28277 or apply online at https://www.millenniumadvisors. com/#openpositions

Software Engineer sought by Enova Financial Holdings LLC in Chicago, IL to take ownership of the devlpment of our systms and apps. Telecommuting permitted. Apply at jobpostingtoday.com Ref# 20930.

708-386-7355

ENGINEERING TECHNICIAN II

The Village of Oak Park is seeking qualified candidates for the position of Engineering Technician II in the Public Works Department. The employee performs layout, draft and design drawings from field survey information and field notes for various engineering and planning projects including existing improvements, right-of-way and various utilities and performs a variety of field inspections. Applicants are encouraged to visit the Village of Oak Park’s website http://www.oak-park.us/jobs. Interested and qualified applicants must complete a Village of Oak Park application.

IT OFFICE COORDINATOR

The Village of Oak Park is seeking qualified candidates for the position of Office Coordinator in Information Technology. This position will perform a variety of responsible and complex administrative duties for the IT Department; provide information and assistance to Village staff regarding requests for service; and provide administrative support to the IT Director and the IT staff. Applicants are encouraged to visit the Village of Oak Park’s website https://www.oakpark.us/your-government/human-resources-department. Interested and qualified applicants must complete a Village of Oak Park application. First review of applications will be June 21, 2023.

PART-TIME

ELECTRICIAN’S HELPER

Call for more info. 708-738-3848

NOVENAS

PRAYER TO THE BLESSED VIRGIN

(NEVER KNOWN TO FAIL)

Oh, most beautiful flower of Mt. Carmel, fruitful vine, splendor of heaven, Blessed Mother of the Son of God, Immaculate Virgin, assist me in my necessity. Oh, Star of the Sea, help me and show me, herein you are my mother. Oh, Holy Mary, Mother of God, Queen of Heaven and Earth. I humbly beseech you from the bottom of my heart to suc cor in my necessity (make request). There are none that can withstand your power. Oh, show me herein you are my mother. Oh, Mary, conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to thee (3 times). Holy Mary, I place this prayer in your hands (3 times). Say this prayer for three consecutive days and publish; your request will be granted. C.C.

MARKETPLACE

GARAGE SALES

GARAGE SALE

1400 MARENGO AVE, FOREST PARK

SATURDAY, JUNE 24TH

SUNDAY JUNE 25TH

8 AM – 4 PM

Items for sale:

Everything from A - Z. Includes garage & Housewares, furniture, books, jewelry, much more. Cash only

PORCH SALE

748 S GROVE

(GROVE & VAN BUREN)

SATURDAY, 6/24

9 AM – 2 PM

Furniture - antique and new, mirrors, doll swing, 8x11 oriental rugs, serving ware.

GARAGE SALE, MULTI-FAMILY RIVER FOREST EVERYTHING MUST GO!

1300 BLOCK MONROE AVE.

SATURDAY,

JUNE 24

8 AM – 1 PM

We have it all Sporting good items, furniture, gardening items, household items, vases, holiday decorations, boys and girls clothes and shoes, Strollers, Baby supplies & much much more. There are a wide variety of items all in good shape. This is multifamily so a wide variety of items for all ages. Everything must go!

WANTED TO BUY WANTED MILITARY ITEMS:

Helmets, medals, patches, uniforms, weapons, flags, photos, paperwork, Also toy soldiers – lead, plastic – other misc. toys. Call

CARS WANTED

CLASSICS WANTED

Restored or Unrestored Cars & Vintage Motorcycles

HOME SERVICES

PUBLIC NOTICES

PUBLIC NOTICE

Notice is hereby given, pursuant to “An Act in relation to the use of an Assumed Business Name in the conduct or transaction of Business in the State,” as amended, that a certification was registered by the undersigned with the County Clerk of Cook County. Registration Number: Y23010635 on May 31, 2023

Under the Assumed Business Name of LOUIS CO with the business located at:203 COSMAN RD, ELK GROVE VILLAGE, IL 60007. The true and real full name(s) and residence address of the owner(s)/partner(s) is: PHILIP SCHUBITZ

Published in Wednesday Journal June 7, 14, 21

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: Y23010646 on May 31, 2023

Under the Assumed Business Name of SISTERS OF LIGHT & LEGACY with the business located at: 6604 OLD PLANK BLVD., MATTESON, IL 60443. The true and real full name(s) and residence address of the owner(s)/partner(s) is: MICHELLE WILLIAMS-SLATEN 6604 OLD PLANK BLVD. MATTESON, IL 60443

Published in Wednesday Journal June 7, 14, 21, 2023

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!

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

YARD SERVICES

FAST DELIVERY Mulch & Topsoil

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• Spreading Available! • Topsoil, Garden Mix, Mushroom, Firewood, Compost, Gravel, Sand

SureGreenLandscape com 847-888-9999 • 630-876-0111

FLOORS

KLIS FLOORING INC.

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

PUBLIC NOTICES

field High School website (www. rbhs208.net).

Published in RB Landmark June 21, 2023

PUBLIC NOTICE

Public Notice is hereby given to all persons concerned that on the 14th day of June, 2023, the Board of Fire and Police Commissioners of the Village of Brookfield, Illinois, voted to amend its Rules and Regulations. Printed copies of the Rules and Regulations, as amended, may be obtained from the Village Manager’s Office, 8820 Brookfield Avenue, Brookfield, Illinois 60513. The Rules and Regulations shall be operable as of July 1, 2023, or 10 days from the date of publication of this Notice (June 21, 2023), whichever date is later.

Published in RB Landmark June 21, 2023

PUBLIC NOTICE NOTICE TO CONTRACTORS VILLAGE OF NORTH RIVERSIDE VILLAGE COMMONS PARKING LOTS – PERMEABLE PAVER INSTALLATION MWRD GREEN INFRASTRUCTURE PARTNERSHIP PROGRAM

PUBLIC NOTICES

D. All Proposals must be accompanied by a Bank Cashier’s Check, Bank Draft, Certified Check, or Bid Bond for not less than five percent (5%) of the total amount of the Bid, or as provided in the applicable sections of the “Standard Specifications”.

E. No Bid may be withdrawn after opening of Proposals without the consent of the Owner for a period of forty-five (45) days after the scheduled time of opening of Bids.

F The Contractor will be required to furnish a labor and material “Performance Bond” in the full amount of the Contract.

G. The Contractor will be required to pay Prevailing Wages in accordance with all applicable laws.

IV. REJECTION OF BIDS: The Owner reserves the right to reject any or all Proposals, to waive technicalities, and to accept the Proposal deemed to be most favorable to the Owner.

BY ORDER OF: VILLAGE OF NORTH RIVERSIDE PRESIDENT & BOARD OF TRUSTEES

Kathy Ranieri (s) Village Clerk Published

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.

PUBLIC NOTICE Notice of Availability of Audit Report of the Park District of Oak Park

The Park District of Oak Park hereby provides public notice that an audit of its funds for the period January 1 through December 31, 2022 has been made by Lauterbach and Amen, and that a report of such audit dated May 22nd, 2023 has been filed with the County Clerk of Cook County, in accordance with 30 ILCS 15/0.01 et seq. The full report of the audit is available for public inspection at 218 Madison Street, Oak Park, during regular business hours, 8:30 am to 5 pm Monday through Friday, except for holidays.

Dated: June 21st, 2023

By: Commissioner David Wick Treasurer, Board of Commissioners Park District of Oak Park

Published in Wednesday Journal June 21, 2023

PUBLIC NOTICE NOTICE OF 2023-2024 BOARD OF EDUCATION MEETING DATES FOR RIVERSIDE BROOKFIELD TOWNSHIP HIGH SCHOOL DISTRICT 208

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on May 9, 2023, a resolution was passed establishing that the 20232024 meetings of the Board of Education, Township High School District 208, Cook County, Illinois, will be held in Room 201 at the hour of 7:00 p.m. in the Riverside Brookfield High School building, 160 Ridgewood Road, Riverside, IL 60546. The Regular Meetings will be held on the second Tuesday of each month. The Committee of the Whole Meetings will be held on the fourth Tuesday of September, October, January, February, April, and May. Meeting dates can be found on the Riverside Brook-

I. TIME AND PLACE OF OPENING OF BIDS: Sealed Proposals for the improvement described herein will be received at the office of the Village Clerk, Village of North Riverside, 2401 S. Des Plaines Avenue, North Riverside, IL 60546, until 2:00 p.m., July 6, 2023, and will be publicly opened and read at that time.

II. DESCRIPTION OF WORK: Consists of the reconstruction of existing parking lots at the North Riverside Village Commons Campus improvements including HMA surface removal; earth excavation; underdrain system installation; aggregate base course and subbase installation; heavy-duty permeable paver and heavy-duty permeable paver pavement markings installation; surface patching; crack filling; seal coating; brick paver installation; curb & gutter removal & replacement; sidewalk removal & replacement; drainage structure adjustments; and topsoil & sod restoration.

III. INSTRUCTIONS TO BIDDERS:

A. All applicable work will be in conformance with the “Standard Specifications for Road and Bridge Construction”, dated January 1, 2022.

B. Proposal forms are available for download only from QuestCDN via the Novotny Engineering website, http://novotnyengineering.com, “Bidding” tab, for a non-refundable charge of $40.00. Please contact Novotny Engineering (630-887-8640) to obtain the QuestCDN password. Proposal forms are non-transferable. Only those Proposals that have been obtained from, and with the approval of, Novotny Engineering will be accepted at the bid opening.

C. Only qualified Contractors who can furnish satisfactory proof that they have performed work of similar nature as Contractors will be entitled to receive bid documents and submit Proposals. To meet this requirement, at the request of the Engineer, bidders will be required to submit a “Statement of Experience” consisting of a list of previous projects of similar nature in order to receive bid documents. The Owner reserves the right to issue Bid Documents only to those Contractors deemed qualified.

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.

PUBLIC NOTICE

Notice is hereby given that the Village of Oak Park Program Year (PY) 2023 Draft Action Plan is available for public review and comment during business hours Monday-Friday, effective June 21 to July 24, 2023 at the Oak Park Village Hall, Development Customer Services Department, 123 Madison Street; on the Village HousingGrants webpage; and at the Public Library, Main Branch, 834 Lake Street. Reasonable accommodations will be made for persons with disabilities and non-English speaking persons, as needed.

Comprising year 4 of the Village PY 2020-24 Consolidated Plan for Housing & Community Development (Con Plan), the

Draft PY 2023 Action Plan contains goals and objectives for implementing the Village’s 20202024 Consolidated Plan, as well as a description of proposed projects to be undertaken in PY 2023 as part of the U.S. Department of Housing & Urban Development Community Development Block Grant Program for the period October 1, 2023 to September 30, 2024. Any comments concerning the Draft PY 2023 Action Plan can be submitted in writing to Vanessa Matheny, Grants Supervisor, at grants@oak-park.us, including at the draft Action Plan Public Hearing to be held at Village Hall room 101 from 3:30-5:00 p.m. on July 24, 2023.

Published in Wednesday Journal, June 21, 2023

Brook eld total rehab on Deyo sells for $529,500

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

Brook eld

Nor th Riverside