Landmark 090121 by Wednesday Journal

RIVERSIDE-BROOKFIELD Also serving North Riverside

$1.00

Vol. 36, No. 35

September 1, 2021

@riversidebrookfieldlandmark

Theater troupe brings play to Ehlert Park this month PAGE 12

49-yard field goal delivers RBHS victory as time expires PAGE16

Census shows populations increased locally in last decade Number of people living in North Riverside jumped 11.3% since 2010 By BOB UPHUES Editor

After seeing Brookfield, Riverside and North Riverside all decline in population from 2000 to 2010, all three villages saw an infusion of new residents in the past decade according to 2020 U.S. Census figures released recently by the federal government. While the state of Illinois saw its total population dip slightly in the past decade, the Chicago metropolitan area bucked that trend, with the city and Cook County both seeing their populations increase. Swept along with that tide were Brookfield, Riverside and North Riverside which saw their populations all rise to levels not seen since the decade between 1970 and 1980, according to historic census figures. In terms of percentage increase in population from 2010 to 2020, Brookfield rose by 2.6 percent from 18,978 to 19,476, a gain of See CENSUS on page 12

ALEX ROGALS/Staff Photographer

WELCOME ABOARD: Jennifer Rowe has been hired as the first-ever director and belonging at Lyons Township High School District 204, putting the school district in the vanguard of a growing national trend.

After equity hire, LTHS joins small, but fast-growing club

Jennifer Rowe hired as the D204’s inaugural director of equity and belonging By MICHAEL ROMAIN Equity Editor

Lyons Township High School District 204 now has a director of equity and belonging,

putting the district in the vanguard of a national hiring trend that’s growing quickly. The District 204 school board unanimously approved the hiring of Jennifer Rowe at a meeting on Aug. 16. Rowe’s starting sal-

ary will be $155,000. Rowe comes to LTHS from Indian Prairie School District 204, where for the last two years she served as the district’s executive See EQUITY on page 13

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The Landmark, September 1, 2021

Down on Old Gaffer’s Farm, in backyards across the area

IN THIS ISSUE Calendar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4 Crime . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5

Collection of gardens creates productive green spaces in our community

Classified . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17 Kosey Corner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14 Opinion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14 Obituaries. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14

By MELISSA ELSMO

Sports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16

Food Editor

Hamfast Gamgee, a hobbit brought to life by J.R.R. Tolkien in “The Lord of the Rings,” was the father of Samwise Gamgee. Known for imparting words of wisdom to his son, the Old Gaffer, as he was commonly known, served as gardener in The Shire and passed along his profession to his son. Berwyn resident, Holden Wilson took inspiration from Tolkien’s minor character when naming Old Gaffer’s Garden — a garden collective designed to increase greenspaces in in populous areas and making fresh produce more readily available within urban communities. “Overgrown and a little wild is definitely my style of garden. I pay attention to soil quality and want to keep things as close to nature as possible,” said Wilson, the farmer behind Old Gaffer’s Garden. “We are not certified organic, but all my gardening practices are organic and environmentally responsible.” Established in 2020 at the height of the pandemic Old Gaffer’s Garden is a vendor at both the Oak Park Farmers Market (Saturdays 7 a.m. to 1 p.m.) and the Riverside Farmers Market (Wednesdays 2:30 to 7 p.m.). Wilson grew up around the culinary industry. His parents owned The Hillside, a fiercely independent restaurant-diner in DeKalb known for serving upscale, seasonal, home-style fare. Wilson learned the business from top to bottom under his parents’ watchful eyes and entered the industry himself. He spent five years working as a breakfast and brunch sous chef at Little Goat Diner

PHOTO BY MELISSA ELSMO

Holden Wilson stands in the garden housed in the backyard of Kylea and Tony Liese’s Riverside home. It is one of four gardens that make up Old Gaffer’s Garden.

in Chicago before leaving the industry last year to focus on Old Gaffer’s Garden. “My mother was a big gardener,” said Wilson. “But I didn’t think I was a gardener for a long time.” Wilson’s work as a chef nurtured his natural curiosity about food sourcing and led him to become a hobby gardener. He enjoyed the smaller plot gardening city living required and become passionate about no-dig, minimal-till and organic gardening practices. Once he felt he had established himself as a “legit” hobby grower, he decided to make moves to get out of the kitchen and into the garden full time. He retained his Chicago garden plot and moved his family to Berwyn where he found it easy to work with city officials to establish Old Gaffer’s Garden as a business. He converted the backyard of his Berwyn bungalow into a working garden including pollinator plants, tomatoes, zucchini, and assorted salad greens like arugula and spinach. Wilson houses grow tables in the basement of his Berwyn home, brimming with assorted microgreens including diminutive broccoli, sunflower and pea shoots. He grows microgreens for local restaurants including Autre Monde in Berwyn PHOTO BY MELISSA ELSMO and La Barra in Riverside. Old Gaffer’s Garden offers petite, but powerful Despite feeling slightly rushed micro greens grown in a Berwyn basement. to get up to speed this year, Wilson

expanded Old Gaffer’s Garden to include a garden in the yard of a private Riverside residence. Kylea and Tony Liese, who live on Bartram Road, expressed interest in hosting a garden on the back quarter of their property. They give Wilson, who calls the plot the “Riverside Farm” on the Old Gaffer website, free reign to grow what he wants and he in turn sells the produce at farmers markets. As for the families who host the gardens, Wilson is clear it takes a special kind of person to let him take over part of their yard. He has a second Berwyn location in the works and is open to more partnerships to increase the number of gardens in his collectives. “I actually feel like I am behind the trend of collective gardening. Cities like Detroit really blazed the trail for this kind of farming,” said Wilson. “I am following good examples and farming in a way that fits into a city environment.” For now, Wilson is the sole employee of Old Gaffers Garden and handles all planting, harvesting and sales. Old Gaffer’s Garden also offers weekly, bi-weekly or monthly salad shares via local home delivery. Though he is committed to Old Gaffer’s Garden, Wilson admits he is not done being a chef just yet and looks forward to the day he can marry his two passions in the future, but for now folks will find him roaming around and growing crops around town. Wilson would surely make the Old Gaffer proud.

Editor Bob Uphues Equity Editor/Ombudsman Michael Romain Food Editor Melissa Elsmo Staff Photographer Alex Rogals Design/Production Manager Andrew Mead Editorial Design Manager Javier Govea Sales and Marketing Representatives Marc Stopeck, Lourdes Nicholls Development Manager Mary Ellen Nelligan Circulation Manager Jill Wagner E-MAIL jill@oakpark.com Publisher Dan Haley Business Manager Joyce Minich

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

HOW TO REACH US ADDRESS 141 S. Oak Park Ave., Oak Park, IL 60302 PHONE 708-442-6739 ■ FAX 708-467-9066 E-MAIL buphues@rblandmark.com ONLINE www.RBLandmark.com The Landmark is published digitally and in print by Growing Community Media NFP. The newspaper is available on newsstands for $1.00. A one-year subscription costs $36 within Cook County and $46 outside the county. Advertising rates may be obtained by calling our office. Periodical rate postage paid at Oak Park, IL (USPS 0019-585). Postmaster send address corrections to Landmark, 141 S. Oak Park Ave., Oak Park, IL 60302. © 2021 Growing Community Media NFP.

The Landmark, September 1, 2021

BIG WEEK Sept. 1-8

Gardening with succulents

Judy Garland in “Meet Me in St. Louis”

‘Meet Me in St. Louis’ at Grossdale Station

Join master gardener Lorey Ford on Thursday, Sept. 2 at 6 p.m. and learn how to grow succulents during the North Riverside Public Library’s virtual Master Gardener Speakers Series. Ford will give you the basics on what you need to grow and cultivate succulents, including propagating, dividing and the best watering and light strategies. She’ll also offer a variety of garden and design ideas involving succulents. Visit northriversidelibrary.org/events-new to register and obtain access information.

Brookfield Parks and Rec wraps up its series of special outdoor movie nights at the Grossdale Station, 8820½ Brookfield Ave., on Saturday Sept. 4 with a screening of the MGM classic musical “Meet Me in St. Louis,” starring Judy Garland, Mary Astor and Margaret O’Brien and directed by Vincente Minelli. Garland plays one of four sisters reluctant to uproot their Midwestern lives to move to New York in an Academy Award-nominated film that features such songs as “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas” and “The Trolley Song.” Bring your own chairs, blankets and food. Snacks available for purchase. Seating begins at 6:30 p.m. Movie starts at 8:30 p.m. Enjoy live pre-show piano music and visit the Brookfield History Museum. Tickets are $25 for residents ($35 non-residents) and can be reserved by visiting tinyurl.com/2vr4njs9. Courtesy of CZS/Brookfield Zoo

KATIE KOSTNER

Music on the plaza

Kick off your weekend with some music at the Linda Sokol Francis Brookfield, Library, 3541 Park Ave., on Friday, Sept. 3 at 4 p.m. as they present their first-ever Live Music on the Plaza event. The concert features musician/vocalist Katie Kostner, who will perform a variety of tunes for all to enjoy. Free. For more info call 708-485-6917, ext. 130 or email reference@brookfieldlibrary.info.

And more The Riverside Farmers Market continues every Wednesday from 2:30 to 7 p.m. at Centennial Park, 10 Pine Ave., in downtown Riverside. Social distancing encouraged. Face coverings are required for those who are not vaccinated and no pets are allowed. The Brookfield Farmers Market continues every Saturday, from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Brookfield Village Hall, 8820 Brookfield Ave. for locally sourced fruits, vegetables, meats, cheeses, baked goods and artisan ware. Live music and a picnic area. Social distancing is encouraged and face coverings are required for non-vaccinated guests. ■

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WSSRA Bocce Ball Tournament fundraiser

5K run at Brookfield Zoo Runners of all ages and abilities can register now to participate in the Brookfield Zoo Run 5K, which will be held Sunday, Sept. 12 at Brookfield Zoo, 8400 31st St. The event features a chip-timed 5K race and a chip-timed 1-mile race for kids ages 4-13. The 5K begins at 8:30 a.m. and costs $35-$45 depending on registration date. The 1-mile race follows at 9:30 a.m. and costs $25. Bring family and friends in for free to cheer you on and visit the animals after the races. Proceeds benefit the Chicago Zoological Society’s Animal Care and Conservation Fund. Visit CZS.org/ZooRun2021 to register and for more info. North Riverside Public Library, 2400 Desplaines Ave., invites teens to Stickers, Iron-Ons, Oh My! in the Teen Spot on Sept. 4 at 1:30 p.m.; adults can drop in on Sept. 8 at 11 a.m. for the Classic Games Club; while kids ages 4-up can choose either in-person or Zoom attendance for Story Safari on Sept. 8 at 10:30 a.m. and Builders Club 2.0 on Sept. 8 at 4 p.m.

For adults/seniors, there’s Chair Yoga via Zoom on Sept. 2 at 11 a.m. and Computer Class: Intro to Email in person on Sept. 7 at 2 p.m. Learn how to set up a Google account, type and send emails and attach files.

Visit northriversidelibrary.org/events-new for more info.

Riverside Public Library, 1 Burling Road, invites teens to watch a different movie or show each week in the Teen Room during Friday Flix at 3:30 p.m. Check social media for titles. Families are invited to First Saturday Storytime in the Programming Room on Sept. 4 at 10 a.m. and seniors can learn how to find and fund housing during the virtual event Se-

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Linda Sokol Francis Brookfield Library, 3541 Park Ave., offers virtual classes and programs for patrons of all ages throughout the week. Most youth activities will be presented live on the library’s Facebook page at facebook.com/BrookfieldPublicLibrary. ■

Call 708-485-6917, ext. 140 or visit brookfield. evanced.info/signup to register for programs. ■

Registration ends soon for the West Suburban Special Recreation Association/WSSRA Foundation’s Bocce Ball Tournament fundraiser on Saturday Sept. 11 from 4 to 8 p.m. at the Elmwood Park Recreation Center’s Centennial Park Bocce Courts. Register your team of two to four players ($200 per team) to enter the 16-team tournament. Fee includes tournament play, box lunch, drink ticket and raffle ticket. Registration deadline is Sept. 3. Visit one.bidpal.net/wssraboccetournament/welcome to register. Call 847-455-2100 for more info. nior Housing 101 with Rick Graffagna on Sept. 8 at 7 p.m. URL will be sent after registration. Visit riversidelibrary.libcal.com/calendar to register for programs. Riverside Chess Club, open to anyone age 5 through adult, meets in person each Wednesday at 5 p.m. in Guthrie Park, Riverside and Bloomingbank roads in downtown Riverside. Players of all levels welcome. Children under 7 require caregiver over 13. Email sean@riversidechessclub.org for more info. The Brookfield Elks Lodge, 9022 31st St., hosts bingo the second Sunday of every month. Doors open at 1 p.m. and games start at 2 p.m. with cash payouts. Next bingo night is Sept. 12. ■

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The Landmark, September 1, 2021

P O L I C E

R E P O R T S

Michigan man carjacked at gunpoint in North Riverside A 52-year-old Warrenville, Michigan, man called police on Aug. 28 at about 1:55 a.m. to report that his 2015 Volvo S60 had been hijacked at gunpoint while he sat in the vehicle, which was parked at the northwest corner of First Avenue and 26th Street. The victim, who was not harmed, told police that two “young” males approached on foot. One of them walked up to the driver’s side of the vehicle displaying a Glockstyle handgun and demanding the car keys while the other stood at the passenger side of the vehicle. After getting out of his vehicle and surrendering the keys, the victim ran westbound on 26th Street pursued by the gunman who demanded the victim’s cellphone. The offender broke off the foot chase to return to the victim’s vehicle, but the victim did not see which direction the vehicle went. The victim called police from the corner of 26th Street and 2nd Avenue and told them a second cellphone was still in the vehicle, which pinged to a location in Maywood. Police searched that area without success. While speaking with the victim, police observed a black Chevy S10 pickup truck, with its passenger side door ajar, parked in the 2500 block of 2nd Avenue. A computer check revealed that the vehicle had been stolen Aug. 27 in a carjacking incident in Chicago. Police had the pickup truck towed to the police station to process it for evidence. At about 6 p.m. on Aug, 28 the North Riverside carjacking victim called police to report that he recovered his secondary cellphone from a grassy area near First Avenue and Cermak Road.

Unlawful use of a weapon North Riverside police charged a 25-yearold Indianapolis man with aggravated unlawful use of a weapon after reportedly finding him in possession of a loaded 9 mm handgun during a traffic stop in the 2200 block of Harlem Avenue on Aug. 27 at about 5:15 p.m. An officer pulled over the man’s black BMW sedan because its temporary Indiana registration plates were supposed to be on a 2002 Lexus. During the stop, the driver told police the temporary plates were on the vehicle when he purchased it in July. Police also stated the man was driving on a suspended license. The man didn’t possess a firearm owner’s ID card and a computer check revealed he was not allowed to possess a weapon because there was an active order of protection against him.

Missing an ankle monitor? A resident of the 3900 block of Grove Avenue, Brookfield, called police on the morning of Aug. 27 to report that she was putting some items into her recycling bin, which is located in the alley, when she saw a Cook County electronic monitoring ankle bracelet in the bin. A call to the Cook County Sheriff ’s Department confirmed the device was one they had issued to someone on probation.

Man killed by vehicle when jack gives way Brookfield police have determined that the death of a 58-year-old LaGrange man who was killed when a car fell on him as he worked underneath it in the rear of a property in the 3900 block of Oak Avenue on Aug. 22 was accidental. Police responded to the scene at about 6:50 p.m. after someone called to report a man who was unresponsive beneath a vehicle. Police reported two vehicles on a dirt area behind the property. The victim was under one of the vehicles and between the two were tools and a motorized jack lying on its side. According to police, the jack is operated by plugging it into a vehicle’s power source, but the end of the cord that attaches directly to the jack was not connected. The man did not live at the address, said police, but was an on-call handyman who rented out the garage and often worked on vehicles in the rear parking spots.

Trespass to vehicle A resident of the 2200 block of Westover Avenue, North Riverside, called police on the morning of Aug. 23 to report that when she came out to her vehicle the driver’s seat was reclined completely as if someone had slept in the car overnight. No one in the family had moved the seat into that position the night before, according to the police report. Nothing was missing from the vehicle and there were no signs of forced entry. These items were obtained from police reports filed by the Riverside, North Riverside and Brookfield police departments, Aug. 22-29 and represent a portion of the incidents to which police responded. Unless otherwise indicated, anybody named in these reports has only been charged with a crime. These cases have not been adjudicated.

— Compiled by Bob Uphues

By Linda Sokol Francis. E.A.

NEW TAX LAWS-PART I On December 27, 2020, Congress passed the 5,593 page Consolidated Appropriations Act. The “Act” includes several provisions and extensions of previously expiring provisions relevant to individual taxpayers: Medical Expense Deduction Foor The Act returns the medical expense deduction floor to 7.5% of adjusted gross income (AGI). The Affordable Care Act raised the threshold to 10% of AGI so that, for 2013 through 2017, individuals age 65 could claim an itemized deduction for reimbursed medical expenses only to the extent that those expenses exceeded 10% of AGI, while the threshold remained 7.5% of AGI for individuals age 65 and older. The threshold was scheduled to increase to and remain at 10% for all taxpayers, but Congress temporarily restored the 7.5% threshold for everyone first for 2017 and 2018, then for 2019 and 2020, before making the change perm1ent. The change applies to tax years beginning after December 31, 2020.

Charitable Contribution Deduction The Act extends the $300 above-the-line charitable contribution deduction for qualified contributions made by non-itemizers. It also extends the temporary charitable contribution limit provided. in the CARES Act. The limitation for deductible cash contributions to a public charity increases from 60% to 100% for 2020 and 2021. Transition from Tuition Deduction to Increased Income Limit on Lifetime Learning Credit The Act repeals the deduction or qualified tuition and related expenses and increases the income limitations on the Lifetime Learning Credit. The phaseout of the Credit will begin at modified adjusted gross income of $80,000 ($160,000 for joint returns). These amounts will not be adjusted for inflation. This change applies to tax years beginning January 1, 2020.

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The Landmark, September 1, 2021

RBHS school board punts on filling vacancy Job picking replacement now falls to head of the West 40 regional office

By BOB SKOLNIK Contributing Reporter

A deadlocked Riverside-Brookfield High School District 208 Board of Education has punted its duty to fill a vacancy on the school board to the Illinois State Board of Education through its West 40 Intermediate Service Area regional office. The school board met in closed session for about 30 minutes on Aug. 24 but just as they did two weeks earlier, school board members could not agree on a replacement for Tom Jacobs who resigned in July when he moved out of the district. After Tuesday night’s session adjourned, District 208 school board President Deanna Zalas handed a statement to the Landmark. “The board of education received 14 applications for the vacancy created July 1, 2021,” the statement said. “We appreciate each applicant’s interest in serving Riverside-Brookfield High School and the District 208 community. After extensive deliberation, the six voting members of the Board of Education have not reached a consensus. Therefore, the regional superintendent will be asked to exercise his statutory authority to appoint a new member to the 208 Board of Education.”

The person who will choose the replacement for Jacobs will be Mark Klaisner, who is the executive director of the Hillside-based West 40 Intermediate Service Center No. 2, an arm of Illinois State Board of Education which oversees 38 school districts and three special education cooperatives in western Cook County. State law gives school boards 60 days to fill school board vacancies. If they fail to meet that deadline, the state steps in to fill the vacancy. Klaisner has 30 days to pick a replacement for Jacobs. Information and a link to the West 40 application can be found on the RBHS website at rbhs208.net. Klaisner has worked in education for 37 years and is the president of the Illinois Association of Regional Superintendents of Schools. He has served as the executive director of the West 40 Intermediate Service Center No. 2 for the past seven years and during that time he has filled four school board vacancies. Klaisner said that he will start the selection process anew and ask that those interested in filling the vacancy to send applications to him. Klaisner said that he would work with RBHS Superintendent Kevin Skinkis to publicize how people can apply.

Any registered voter who lives in District 208 can apply for the vacancy, not just those who applied directly to the school board. Klaisner said those who already have applied to the school board will not be considered unless they again apply directly to him at West 40. Klaisner said that he would not even look at the applications and questionnaires that the 14 people who previously applied to fill the vacancy submitted to the District 208 board. “I feel an intense need to be impartial,” Klaisner said. Klaisner said that he looks for mission-driven people rather than people with particular axes to grind. He said he also looks for people who have experience serving on some type of board. One of the candidates who applied to the school board to fill the vacancy was former board president William “Wes” Smithing, who was defeated in a bid for re-election in April, finishing last in a field of four candidates vying for three seats. It’s unclear whether school board members were deadlocked over Smithing’s application, though he likely had support from two or three board members, all of whom referred questions to Zalas who simply said the board

didn’t agree on a replacement for Jacobs. Klaisner said he would consider the application of a former board member who lost a race for re-election carefully. He said that he would want to know the margin of his defeat. “I think that would be something that would be important to discuss, because it relates directly to this appointment,” Klaisner said. “But I would also try to assure that person that they weren’t out of the running just because of that. If I’m being impartial, I should give everybody the same fair chance. “I’m also curious about the makeup of the board and if they represent the community.” Klaisner said he much prefers school boards fill their own vacancies, noting they know their districts and communities much better than he does. A former assistant regional superintendent for the Kane County Regional Office of Education, Klaisner served for five years as the superintendent in Lincolnwood School District 74. He holds a doctorate in educational leadership from National-Louis University, a master’s degree in educational leadership from Northern Illinois University, and a bachelor’s degree in elementary education from Purdue University.

Presented by

Brookfield Chamber of Commerce Business Spotlight

Number of years in business? 10 What inspired you to open the business? I first fell in love with early childhood music and movement while working at a music school in Chicago, but the commute was rough so I decided to look for a similar position near Brookfield. After less than 10 minutes of job hunting, it suddenly occurred to me that I had spent the past several years teaching, song writing, curriculum planning, marketing, and even bookkeeping. Seemingly out of nowhere, it was clear as day that I should start my own business. Are you currently offering in-person music classes? We had been super excited to return to our

newly renovated studio after having been closed for onsite classes since March, 2020, but of course our plans had to change overnight given the rise of the Delta variant. So while we are not yet open onsite, we are extremely thrilled to continue our ongoing partnership with Cantata Adult Life Services Center. We have an upcoming fall session of outdoor classes on the beautiful and spacious Cantata Campus starting September 7th. What is something about you or your business that not many people know? There may have been rumors about this, but it’s true that I did in fact move to Indianapolis! It was SUCH a difficult decision, but my husband Dennis was furloughed the same week that Ms. Clara’s Mini Musicians was forced to close, and once it became clear that his furlough was ultimately going to be a layoff, and there was no telling when I’d be able to safely reopen my studio, we had to figure things out. Dennis stumbled upon a great job opportunity in Indianapolis, so now I’m learning what it’s like to run my business from 3 hours away! I’m incredibly grateful for my fantastic

Ms. Clara’s Mini Musicians

(soon to be the Brookfield Academy for Mini Musicians)

9213 Broadway Ave. Brookfield, IL 60513 (708) 704-1716 www.JoyfulLearningCenter.com Clara D’Onofrio

teachers, and we will soon be rebranding and changing the business name to the Brookfield Academy for Mini Musicians. One thing I will guarantee is that I’ll still be around a ton, and the high quality classes that parents and kiddos have come to expect from us will remain the same. What do you love about the Brookfield business community? I love how the large majority of businesses in Brookfield are owned by real people, not corporations. It gives our community such a friendly feel, knowing that when you buy groceries at Tischler’s or eat corned beef at Irish Times, you’re supporting people in your own community.

What is your favorite thing about your business? Having been in business for over 10 years, I constantly run into families who met each other years earlier in our music classes and have stayed close friends. I also see “Ms. Clara alumni” and get to hear that after all these years, they still love music and are now playing an instrument. It’s amazing and humbling to own a business that brings people together while also sparking a love of music in the hearts of countless children.

Outdoor classes for children 4 mo - 5 years resume September 7th at Cantata. Learn more at www.JoyfulLearningCenter.com/outdoor.

The Landmark, September 1, 2021

Brookfield Parks & Rec brings its STARS program to D103 Village to provide before, after care at all 5 schools in district

By BOB SKOLNIK Contributing Reporter

The Brookfield Parks and Recreation Department is now providing before and after school care at the five elementary schools of Lyons-Brookfield Elementary School District 103 despite only one of those schools, Lincoln School, being located in Brookfield. Stevie Ferrari, the director of the Brookfield Parks and Recreation Department, said District 103 approached the in early August to see if they were willing to run a before- and after-school care program in the district. In just a couple weeks, Ferrari and new Recreation Supervisor Cindy Yelich had the program up and running, having expanded the village’s STARS program to District 103. “It was a very, very large undertaking right before the start of school,” Ferrari said. “It’s going to go down in the history books in the field of recreation, in getting a before- and after-school program up and running in less than two weeks.” Ferrari said Yelich, who supervises the program, was essential in getting the pro-

gram up and running so quickly. “She’s a veteran in the field and she absolutely got it done,” Ferrari said. Ferrari said District 103 liked that the Brookfield Parks and Recreation Department had an existing program. “They liked the way we operated, our policies, procedures, structure, what we were able to do,” Ferrari said. Previously District 103 had run its own before- and after-school care program, but difficulties in getting bus transportation had the district looking for an outside provider this year. “If we would have maintained it ourselves, we would have been only able to put it in two buildings, and that would just be very difficult for little kids to get from their home school to a school that’s somewhat nearby,” said District 103 Superintendent Kristopher Rivera. Ferrari and Yelich quickly hired 11 staff members, including some who had previously worked in the program when District 103 ran it. The STARS program already was serving some Brook Park School students through

an arrangement with Brookfield-LaGrange Park School District 95. Although District 95’s onsite program is run by a private company called Right at School, the Parks and Recreation Department serves approximately 50 Brook Park students daily who are transported by bus between Brookfield Village Hall and Brook Park School. In District 103, however, the STARS program is based at each of the district’s five elementary schools. Ferrari said that the Parks and Recreation Department is trying to serve all of Brookfield. “We want to be able to serve the families within our boundaries, but it means we’re going to four different school districts to try and do it,” Ferrari said. “Additionally, we have some diversity, equity and inclusivity initiatives in serving geographical equity. … We try to serve as much of Brookfield as equitably as possible. We’re really excited to be able to do it.” Ferrari said serving just Lincoln School, which the lone District 103 school in Brookfield, was not something that District 103 was interested in.

D103 board replaces maintenance chief School board approves separation agreement with ousted employee By BOB SKOLNIK Contributing Reporter

Lyons-Brookfield Elementary School District 103 has hired its fourth maintenance director in less than four years after the sudden and unexplained resignation of former Maintenance Director Robert Koc. At its Aug. 17 meeting, the District 103 Board of Education voted to approve a voluntary separation agreement between Koc and the district and then voted to hire Daniel Trapp as its new building and grounds director at an annual salary of $82,500. District 103 Superintendent Kristopher Rivera declined to comment when asked why Koc had resigned. “That’s, I believe, in the separation agreement,” Rivera said. “I’m not at liberty to discuss.” Koc resigned effective Aug. 13. According to the separation agreement, which District 103 provided after the Landmark filed a Freedom of Information Act request, Koc and the District 103 agreed that it was their mutual best interest for Koc to resign. Koc will be paid his salary through Sept. 30 and will also be paid for 33.5 days of sick leave, three days of personal leave and 21 days of vacation. Koc will also remain on the district’s health insurance plan until Dec. 31.

The district designated Rivera as the sole contact for employment verification inquires about Koc. The district agreed not to make public the terms of the agreement unless ordered by a court in conjunction with the Freedom of Information Act. The school district initially ignored the Landmark’s FOIA request, which was filed on Aug. 18. District 103 did not release the agreement until Aug. 31, shortly after the Landmark lodged a complaint with the Illinois Attorney General’s Public Access Counselor. Under the separation agreement the district agreed to hold Koc harmless for any lawsuits or other causes of action brought against the district or Koc for any alleged acts of misconduct Koc may have committed as a District 103 employee. In return Koc agreed not to sue the district or make any administrative claims against the district. Koc was hired by District 103 in April of 2020 despite having never worked in the capacity of a maintenance director anywhere before. Trapp comes to District 103 from the Summit Park District. According to a resume the district provided to the Landmark as a result of a FOIA request, Trapp had worked for the Summit Park District as a maintenance supervisor since 2005. From 1980 to 2004 Trapp worked for the village of Summit and served for nearly five

years as Summit’s superintendent of public works and water. The Landmark briefly talked to Trapp outside the Aug. 24 school board meeting, but Trapp declined to talk further other than identifying himself when asked and saying that he had worked in Summit. He deferred further questions to a later time. A Landmark reporter left his card with Trapp and asked him to call for a telephone interview but the reporter has not heard from Trapp. Phone and email messages left for Trapp on Aug. 30 were not immediately returned. Rivera said Trapp is highly qualified for the position. “Very qualified guy, has a bachelor’s degree in business and a lot of experience, highly touted in the position he was doing,” Rivera said.

Families participating in the program pay the Brookfield Parks and Recreation Department directly. District 103 allows the Parks and Recreation Department to use its schools without charge. According to an intergovernmental agreement approved by both District 103 and Brookfield Village Board, the Brookfield Parks and Recreation Department runs the program and hires the staff. The program provides care in the morning from 6:30 to 8:30 a.m. and from 3 to 6 p.m. Families can sign up for before-school care, after-school care or both. They can also pick a five-day-a-week plan or a flexible threeday-a-week plan. Combined before- and after-school care for five days a week costs $260 a month. Five days a week of only before-school care costs $116 a month, while five days of only after-school care costs $232 a month. Three days a week of before-school care costs $72 a month, while three days a week of afterschool care costs $144 a month. More information is available at brookfieldil.gov/departments/recreation-department/stars-program.

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The Landmark, September 1, 2021

Lemonade stand raises thousands for child cancer research

In past two years Lawton Road fundraiser has netted more than $60,000 By JACKIE PISANO Contributing Reporter Photos by JACKIE PISANO/Contributor

As the saying goes, it takes a village to raise a child. But sometimes, it also takes a village to carry on the legacy of a child — and, in the process, make a difference in the lives of children those in the village may never even get the chance to meet. Back in 2016, the Riverside and Brookfield communities were introduced to the story of Giovanni “Baby Gio” Torres, who, at just 6 weeks old, was diagnosed with a rhabdoid tumor of the liver — a rare cancer which usually occurs in babies and toddlers. Throughout Gio’s treatment, his family and friends of the family began tying gold ribbons around trees in the area — gold being the color for childhood cancer — along with “Go Gold for Gio” signs. Shortly before Gio’s death at 14 months in January 2017, a Riverside neighbor of his grandmother, Jennifer Veselsky, came up with a way to raise money for the family and spread awareness by selling gold beaded bracelets online. Then, one year later, family and friends on Lawton Road in Riverside gathered to sell lemonade in his memory and to support childhood cancer research. Organized by Veselsky and her daughter, Amber Kobela (Gio’s mother), the inaugural lemonade stand in June 2018 was hosted through Alex’s Lemonade Stand, an American pediatric cancer research charity where 100 percent of proceeds

Riversider Amber Kobela stands next to a photo of her late son, Giovanni “Baby Gio” Torres, whose death in January 2017 after a battle with pediatric cancer inspired the annual lemonade stand fundraiser on Lawton Road that has raised more than $60,000 for childhood cancer research in the past two years. Below left, two of many volunteers who have rallied to the cause serve up some lemonade during the Aug. 28 fundraiser in Riverside. benefit cancer research. That first year, lemonade sales and online donations tallied approximately $4,700. Following that success, Veselsky, Kobela and the moms and kids of Lawton Road held another sale in 2019 and despite the COVID-19 pandemic putting a damper on plans to host an inperson sale in 2020, the crew managed to raise just over $25,000 through social media marketing and online fundraising. Though the original lemonade sale began with five other families, Kobela says as more young families moved onto Lawton Road and heard about the cause, they were eager to get involved. “It’s a huge deal for the neighbors to still make the time to show support and help me in different ways of raising awareness,” Kobela said. “All of the kids on Lawton are wonderful. Gio was only here for 14 months, but he touched so many lives. It’s a big deal that the families make the time for this.” Luckily for Veselsky, Kobela and fundraiser participants, an in-person lemonade fundraiser was able to be hosted on Friday, Aug. 27. Throughout the year, families across the area chipped in money toward the cause. And in the weeks leading up to the August lemonade sale, Kobela and Veselsky made promotional lawn signs along with T-shirts for the kids and moms who help with fundraising. Prior to the in-person lemonade stand event, online donations totaled $20,451.14. On the day of the sale they raised $6,371.96 in cash and another $7,850 in donations from neighbors and passersby. In addition, The Original Rainbow Cone sent their ice cream truck, and from twoand-a-half hours of sales, they donated $1,500. At press time, Kobela reported just over $37,000 had been raised, with donations still coming in. So, what’s the secret to the success of the fundraiser? Kobela says it’s simple — genuine care from the community and a drive from

neighbors toward helping one another. “Hearing that a child has or had cancer is a big deal — but it is huge that a child passes from cancer, and it’s unfortunate,” she explained. “No child should have to go through cancer treatments and not be able to live their life. Everyone on Lawton, whether they have or have not met Gio, is just so supportive because they know us as a family. They know how many people we help in general through fundraising. It’s huge having a support system.” Riverside neighbors Giada Decola and Mia Marchetti, both 12 years old, are two of the kids who have helped out with the lemonade stand since 2018. “It makes me feel good to know that all my hard work is paying off to give all the money to children with cancer to help them out,” Decola said. Marchetti agreed that the fundraiser in Gio’s name carries great significance. “It means so much that people come out because we’re raising money for kids who really need it,” Marchetti said. Lawton Road resident Danny Jisa, who stopped by the fundraiser with his 2-year-old son, Flynn, says coming to support the cause was important to him because it helps send the message to his young son that it’s important to give to charity. “It starts with just $1, and these kids can see that helping out makes a big difference,” he said. “It makes them realize what they’re actually capable of doing.” With September being Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, Kobela says the fundraising website, lawtonlemonadestand.com, will be active to receive donations from now through the end of the year. And, while it’s now been four-and-a-half years since her son’s death, Kobela says the love and encouragement from her family and community is truly what keeps her going. “To this day, I’m still dealing with my grief,” she said. “I wish Gio could be here and play with the kids on Lawton, but at the same time, I think that I’m getting through it because of everyone’s support. If I didn’t have that support, I don’t know what I would be doing.”

The Landmark, September 1, 2021

Riverside hires first-ever village planner New staffer handled similar duties in last job in Indianapolis

By BOB UPHUES Editor

The village of Riverside added another key piece to its reorganized community development department last month when Francisco Jimenez was hired as its first-ever village planner. A native of southwest suburban Burbank, Jimenez comes to Riverside from a two-year stint as a project development analyst for the city of Indianapolis/Marion County. Working for Construction and Business Services within the Department of Business and Neighborhood Services, Jimenez was responsible for reviewing and issuing permits, assisting residents with code interpretations and application procedures, investigating and resolving permit complaints and other duties. He earned a bachelor’s degree in 2018 from Elmhurst College in history with a minor in urban studies. That brush with urban studies got Jimenez interested in planning, which led to the job in Indianapolis. “It had everything I was interested in – history, planning – so I looked at Indianapolis as a good opportunity to get my foot in the door working with a municipality,” Jimenez said. Seeking a position closer to his hometown, Jimenez searched for planning opportunities in the Chicago suburbs and applied for the Riverside job. Riverside Assistant Village Manager Ashley Monroe, who oversees the community development department, said Jimenez stood out because of his experience in Indianapolis handling permits and code matters. His connection to the Chicago suburbs and interest in history also was a plus. “His background in Indianapolis, specifically working in buildings and permitting, was very aligned with some of the responsibilities here,” Monroe said. Having a foundational understanding of those issue and being the one reviewing those plans was attractive.” In his role as village planner, Jimenez will also serve as the staff liaison to the Riverside Planning and Zoning Commission and the Riverside Preservation Commission. He’ll also have a role to play in the ongoing effort to amend the village zoning code related to transit-oriented development in the downtown area and along Harlem Avenue. That process was to have wrapped up this fall, but due to the staffing turnover in the

community development department earlier this year, the Riverside Village Board voted last month to extend the grant-funded code revision effort until May 31, 2022. “Hopefully with some additional clarity, we’ll continue to provide consistent and quality guidance for people who are looking to update their properties or tenant spaces in a way that encourages further commerce,” Monroe said of the goal of the code revision.

Other projects certain to intersect with Jimenez’s new role as planner include implementing the village’s new multifamily building rental registry; the ongoing Des Plaines River floodwall project, which is in its final design stage; and any planned unit development applications submitted to the village in the future. Jimenez started in his new job on Aug. 2. His starting annual salary is $61,000.

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The Landmark, September 1, 2021

Kiwanis Park canoe launch finally a reality Years after landing grant, project to be completed by end of October By BOB UPHUES Editor

In the works for seven years, construction will begin this week on a new canoe launch on the east bank of Salt Creek just south of the Brookfield Village Hall parking lot in Kiwanis Park. On Aug. 23, village trustees voted unanimously to award a $145,139 construction contract to Integral Construction Inc., which submitted the lowest of three bids for the work – some $20,000 lower than the nearest bidder. The project is being partially funded by a $52,720 Boat Access and Development Grant through the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, awarded to the village in 2014. “The canoe launch project represents a significant improvement to Kiwanis Park and public access to the creek,” said Assis-

tant Village Manager George Issakoo in a memo outlining the terms of the contract for the village board. The contract approved by the village board last week states that the project must be completed no later than Oct. 25. Issakoo told the Landmark work was slated to begin as early as Aug. 30. According to plans on file with Hitchcock Design group, which the village employed to design the canoe launch, site work includes grading the site so the V-shaped concrete path slopes gently to the river bank. Workers will have to remove about 15 trees to accommodate the path and three circular landing areas – one at the top of the path, one where it turns sharply and one at the boat launch itself. The two sections of path are each about 90 feet long. The contract also calls for decorative boulders to frame the north arc of the middle concrete landing. The canoe launch will feature a stone outcropping at Salt Creek’s edge to improve access and limit erosion. Finally a roughly 30-foot long concrete revetment mat extending south from the

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On the drawing board since 2014 and partially grant-funded, construction will begin soon on a new, more accessible canoe launch on the east bank of Salt Creek just north of the Brookfield Village Hall parking lot. canoe launch will provide additional access to the water’s edge during low water level conditions. For much of the year when water levels are typical, the revetment is likely to be submerged. The village is expected to add benches at the top and middle landing pads and new trees and shrubs will be planted in time. While the village sought bids for landscaping, officials decided to hold off on extensive plantings until the Brookfield Conservation Commission can weigh in on the best options for that area.

Same firm awarded fountain contract It’s been a busy year for Integral Construction Inc. in Brookfield, which also won a contract earlier this year for major improvements at Candy Cane Park. The firm on Aug. 23 was also awarded a $641,700 contract to construct a new fountain at Veterans Memorial Circle. Work is expected to begin in early September, according to Issakoo. That amount was a good deal higher than the village engineer’s estimated budget for the project, which was about $541,000. The additional expense, according to Tim King, principal at Hitchcock Design Group, which designed the project, was related to the installation of the fountain’s mechanical system. “Costs have just continued to go up,” King

told trustees. “Monthly they’ve seen costs increase.” King said the fountain manufacturer, Fountain Technologies, had identified some cost savings, amounting to roughly $40,000, which would be passed along to the village. The cost for any work done by village public works staff will also be deducted. The fountain project is being funded in part by a $250,000 state grant. The balance will be funded through the Eight Corners TIF District. The contract states Integral Construction Inc. must complete the project on or before Nov. 19. With Integral Construction Inc. responsible for three projects at the same time in the village, some officials wondered whether the firm might be stretching itself thin. But King said the date in the contract was a hard deadline. “We’ve checked Integral’s references, I’ve had a conversation with the owner and I also talked to Fountain Technologies,” King said. “There’s a substantial completion and a final acceptance date in their contract. So, they’ll be contractually bound to meeting those dates.” King said that during construction workers will close down about 10 to 12 feet of the roadway nearest the circle during work hours, but that traffic through and around the circle will not be interrupted at any time.

The Landmark, September 1, 2021

Masks mandated indoors; vaccines required for teachers, health care workers State warns of decreasing intensive care bed capacity amid latest surge By JERRY NOWICKI Capitol News Illinois

The statewide mask mandate indoors is back, and educators and health care professionals will be required to receive the COVID-19 vaccine, Gov. J.B. Pritzker announced Aug. 26 amid an ongoing surge in the pandemic that first arrived in Illinois in March 2020. Beginning Aug. 30, people were required to wear masks indoors, Pritzker announced. The vaccine requirement, which goes into effect Sept. 5, will apply to “all P-12 teachers

and staff, all higher education personnel, all higher education students and health care workers in a variety of settings, such as hospitals, nursing homes, urgent care facilities and physician’s offices,” Pritzker said at a news conference in Chicago. “Effective Sept. 5, individuals working in these settings who are unable or unwilling to receive their first dose of vaccine will be required to get tested for COVID-19 at least once a week, and IDPH and [the Illinois State Board of Education] may require more frequent testing in certain situations, like in an outbreak,” he said. Illinois Department of Public Health Director Dr. Ngozi Ezike said the state is seeing 220 hospital admissions per day, a number on par with a surge in May. Pritzker said

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8. Have no convictions for DUI and no loss of license as a result of a moving violation within the past 36 months at the time of application. 9. Have no felony convictions. 10. Have no convictions of domestic related charges. Candidates should, under general supervision, be able 11. Have no convictions for serious misdemeanors involving to perform general police patrol duties, including but not moral turpitude as defined in 65 ILCS 5/10-2.1-6. limited to; basic accident investigations, traffic control 12. Have a clean disciplinary record, including, but not and enforcement, initial investigations into criminal and limited to: no sustained violations involving excessive non-criminal activity and related functions involving the force or dishonesty, including stealing, lying or being safety and protection of life and property, promote crime under the influence of alcohol or drugs, either on or off prevention strategies, apprehend criminals, and enforce duty. A sustained violation is defined as a finding by a Federal, State and Local Statutes/Ordinances. law enforcement investigating body that is/was more Wages and Seniority: Effective 01/01/2021, the starting likely true than not true that the accused did what he/she salary for a Lateral Entry Probationary Patrol Officer with was accused of doing. two years of experience will be $91,971.00 per current Applicants: Proof of meeting the above requirements must collective bargaining agreement. be submitted during the application process, additionally Benefits: Excellent fringe benefits including pension applicant shall submit with the application a copy of: plan, retirement savings options; health, dental, vision and • Military Service Record life insurance. If you have any questions, please visit the • Discharge Papers Village website or email kjohns@riverside.il.us. • Social Security card Lateral candidates shall be subject to the same benefits and • Birth Certificate seniority as an officer appointed from the Initial Eligibility • High School Diploma/G.E.D. Certificate Register. • College/University Degree Lateral Entry Candidates must: • If requested, a copy of a certified transcript of course work 1. Be at minimum of 21 years of age; unless exempt from from an accredited College/University such age limitation as provided in § 5/10-2.1-6 of the Act. Applications and supporting documentation must 2. Be currently certified and employed as a full-time Law be submitted by 4:30 PM on September 24, 2021. Enforcement Officer, as established by the officer’s Applications for lateral entry Police Officer positions may be previous law enforcement agency and verified by the obtained on the Village of Riverside website www.riverside. Illinois Law Enforcement Training and Standards Board il.us. Applications to be considered must be returned with pursuant to 65ILCS 5/10-2.1-6(h). all supporting documentation to the Village of Riverside 3. Have two years of continuous service as a full-time police Village Clerk, Cathy Haley, 27 Riverside Road, Riverside officer. Illinois 60546. 4. Be a United States of America citizen and/or an alien Hiring Process: Application Review, Oral Interview, and admitted for permanent residence or lawfully admitted Background Investigation. Subject to medical physical, for temporary residence and who produces evidence of drug testing and psychological testing at time of conditional intention to become a citizen of the United States. offer of employment. 5. Possess a valid Illinois drivers’ license. Eligibility List: Acceptable candidates shall be placed on 6. Possess a valid Firearms Owners Identification card a new or current lateral entry eligibility pool list in ranking (FOID). order, from which the Village of Riverside Director of 7. Have fewer than two chargeable vehicle accidents within Public Safety may select, at his discretion to fill lateral entry the past 36 months at the time of application. Chargeable vacancies depending on qualifications and experience. accidents are defined as accidents where fault was Acceptable candidates may remain on the lateral entry established by a law enforcement investigative body. eligibility pool list for a period of up to two years. By order of the Board of Fire and Police Commissioners of the Village of Riverside, Illinois, Kelly Navarro, Secretary An Equal Opportunity Employer: All Village of Riverside applicants will be afforded equal employment opportunity without discrimination because of race, color, religion, sex, marital status, national origin or ancestry, citizenship status, physical or mental disability unrelated to ability, sexual orientation, gender identity, military status or unfavorable discharge from military service.

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The Landmark, September 1, 2021

Ehlert Park to host theatrical production Oak Park troupes partner to stage Tony Award-winning hit through Sept.

By BOB UPHUES Editor

Brookfield may be a long way from the beach, but a theatrical troupe based in Oak Park plans to transform the sand volleyball court at Ehlert Park, 4338 Congress Park Ave., into the Massachusetts shore every weekend this month. Habakkuk Theatre in partnership with Open Door Theater in Oak Park will stage “Coastal Disturbances,” the winner of the 1986 Tony Award for Best Play, written by Tina Howe. Performances are at 4 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays from Sept. 4 to Sept. 26, plus a Labor Day show on Sept. 6 at 4 p.m. Tickets are $18 each and can be purchased before each show or ordered ahead by visiting online at habakkuktheatre.org. While Ehlert Park was the longtime home for a very popular haunted house around Halloween, and hosted a circus about a decade ago, it hasn’t hosted a serious theatrical production in anyone’s memory. “We’d love to be able to use Ehlert Park for more of these types of events,” said Brookfield Recreation Director Stevie Ferrari. “It’s a creative way to use the space. I think this is great.” “Coastal Disturbances” follows four generations – a photographer romancing a lifeguard, two former college roommates and an older married couple on vacation – contemplating their lives ahead as they sun themselves on a beach on Massachusetts’ north coast. The nine-member cast, who range in age from 7 to nearly 70, is directed by Hilly Doyle. Tina Shelley, a Brookfield resident who is the artistic director for Habakkuk Theatre, said “Coastal Disturbances” is a personal favorite, but she assumed she’d never get the chance to produce it. “This particular play was always on my bucket list, but I knew no one would ever let me bring two tons of sand inside their theater,” Shelley said. The inspiration for the production came while Shelley and Doyle were walking through Kiwanis Park and passed the sand volleyball court there. Doyle pointed it out and said, “Why not just do it right here?” “We just ran with it,” Shelley said. Founded in 2017, the nonprofit Habakkuk Theatre was to have performed its productions at Open Door Theater in Oak Park, but the COVID-19 pandemic derailed those plans. But,

CENSUS

Populations jump from page 1 people. Brookfield hasn’t been home to that many residents since sometime prior to 1980, when the census showed 19,395 people living in the village. Riverside saw an increase in population of 423 people (a 4.8 percent rise) decade over decade, pushing the population past 9,000 for the first time since 1980. In fact, the 9,298 people reported as living in Riverside in 2020 by the U.S. Census is more than the number counted in 1980, which was 9,236. Riverside’s population high-water mark was recorded in the 1970 U.S. Census at 10,357 people.

ALEX ROGALS/Staff Photographer

Actors (from left) Spencer Schmidt, Melody Jefferies, Andrew Cawley and Thora Jenkins act out a scene during a dress rehearsal for a Habakkuk Theatre’s production of “Coastal Disturbances” on Aug. 28 at Ehlert Park in Brookfield, where the play will be performed during weekends in September. when Shelley pitched Open Door Theater’s artistic director Mary Pat Sieck on partnering to produce “Coastal Disturbances,” she enthusiastically agreed. The actors have been rehearsing at the Ehlert Park sand volleyball court through some pretty sweltering and, at times, stormy, conditions. They’ve also gotten a chance to get used to performing in a public park that will remain very much open during their performances. “I think it’s been good for the actors to work through the different elements around them,” Shelley said. Anyone attending the show is asked to bring their own

Brookfield and Riverside, however, paled in comparison to North Riverside, which saw its population climb by 11.3 percent from 2010 to 2020, an increase of 752 people, pushing the total to 7,426. In 2010, the population was 6,672. Between 1940 and 1970, the population of North Riverside boomed from a little more than 1,000 people to almost 8,100. But the decades between 1970 and 1990 saw the village population plummet to 6,005. With the results of the 2020 census, the village’s population has grown by nearly 24 percent in the last 30 years. Those residents identifying as white only (no Hispanic or Latino origin) continued to fall as a percentage of the overall populations in each of the three villages. In 2010, those identifying as white only made up 85 percent of the population in Riverside, 78 percent in Brookfield and 67 percent in North Riverside. In 2020, those percentages declined to 78.1

chairs and will be encouraged to sit close to the “stage” because there won’t be any sound equipment amplifying the actors’ voices. The play, which includes an intermission, will run about two hours. The Ehlert Park concession stand/restrooms will be open. People can also bring their own snacks, if they choose. If all goes well, Shelley said outdoor theater in one of Brookfield’s parks might become a regular thing. “I’ve talked about co-producing Shakespeare, maybe one of the lighter plays, a comedy, next summer,” Shelley said, saying the Kiwanis Park band shell could be a perfect setting.

percent in Riverside, 68.4 percent in Brookfield and 57 percent in North Riverside. Meanwhile, the percentage of local residents identifying as of Hispanic or Latino origin continued to rise. In 2000, the Hispanic population of Riverside was 5.5 percent, a figure that rose sharply to 10.54 percent in 2010 and continued to climb to 16.4 percent in 2020. In both Brookfield and North Riverside between 2000 and 2010 those identifying as being of Hispanic or Latino origin increased rapidly as a percentage of the overall population, growing from 8.05 percent to 16.17 percent in Brookfield and from 8.13 percent to 23.8 percent in North Riverside during that decade. While the decade following saw that rate of increase slow down, those of Hispanic or Latino origin increased as a percentage of the population in both villages. The 2020 Census shows the Hispanic/Latino population of Brookfield and North Riverside at 22.9 percent and 28.3 percent, respectively.

Those people identifying as Black/African-American alone also grew as a percentage of the population in Brookfield and North Riverside, but not in Riverside. Black residents now account for 5.2 percent of Brookfield’s population compared to 2.51 percent in 2010 and less than 1 percent in 2000. In North Riverside, Black residents make up 7.3 percent of the population compared to 6.5 percent in 2010 and almost 3 percent in 2000. Asian residents continue to make up just a small percentage of the populations in Brookfield and Riverside, although their number rose slightly decade over decade. In 2020, Asian residents made up 2.1 percent of the population in Brookfield and 3.3 percent in Riverside. North Riverside saw a larger increase in Asian residents in the past decade, with the percentage rising from 2.1 percent in 2010 to 6.3 percent in 2020.

The Landmark, September 1, 2021

EQUITY

‘Connects into everything’ from page 1 director of educational equity. Before that role, she was a dean of students at Metea Valley High School for a decade and a teacher for 11 years prior to that. During an interview on Aug. 30, her first day on the job at LTHS, Rowe said she’ll spend her initial weeks and months in the position learning. “I think we can always have a vision, but right now the big piece is how do you come in and look at a community and see where they are?” she said. “How do you work with the team and see that you can plan together? It can be a challenge to come in and say, ‘This is my vision,’ without getting to know the people I’ll be working with. “So, right now is that time for me to really get in and talk to people, hear what they’ve done and get a feel for what their needs are.” District 204 Superintendent Brian Waterman said Rowe’s hiring is the culmination of work that’s been done by the school board in the area of equity over the last year. “In January, our board adopted an equity statement that underscored the commitment to this work,” Waterman said. “The next step was to find a person to develop it.” As director of equity and belonging, Rowe has a position on the superintendent’s district-wide administrative leadership team. Waterman said she’ll work closely with other senior administrators on a range of responsibilities. Some of those duties include working with human reALEX ROGALS/Staff Photographer sources to ensure that the district’s hiring practices are eqJennifer Rowe (center), the director of equity and belonging for Lyons Township High School, stands for a photo outside the uitable, working with the director of curriculum on profesNorth Campus in La Grange with junior Noor Hassan (left) and senior Ali Guerrero on Aug. 30, Rowe’s first day on the job. sional development for teachers and staff, and facilitating community outreach. male students. Precious Porras, who was hired earlier this year to beThe breadth and totality of Rowe’s functions are aligned “It bothered me that a lot of my Black boys would struggle come chief diversity officer for Dominican University in with how she thinks about equity. in school, so I wanted to make an impact with them and on River Forest, gave some reasons for the recent uptick in “Equity is not something added to the plate,” she said. “It their experiences,” she said. “When they see themselves in equity-related hires across the country. is the plate. It’s the lens through which we look at all things.” those experiences in a joyful way, that’s powerful.” “In the last year, it’s been prompted by the murder of Rowe will try applying her expansive concept of equity Ironically, there’s not much of that kind George Floyd and the protests from last summer,” she said. and belonging in a school district where of role modeling in Rowe’s own profession. “In the last five or six years, it’s been the Black Lives Matroughly 72 percent of students are white, 21 While trending, the position of equity direc- ter movement emerging, coupled with the violence against percent of students are Hispanic, 3 percent of tor, particularly at a high school, is still a Black bodies. Perhaps institutions are realizing they need to students are Black, 2 percent of students are respond and act.” novel concept. Asian and 2 percent are multiracial, accordOther public and private school districts in the area that It’s difficult to track precisely how many ing to the school’s Illinois Report Card. equity-related administrators work in public have made DEI-related hires in the last several years include Roughly 11 percent of D204 students are school districts in the state. An attempt to get Oak Park Elementary School District 97, Oak Park and Rivconsidered low-income and 11 percent of stuer Forest High School District 200, Fenwick High School in an answer from the Illinois State Board of dents receive special education services. The Oak Park and Proviso Township High School District 209 in Education was unsuccessful, but Rowe’s exschool district serves the southwest quarter Forest Park. perience is telling. of Brookfield. JENNIFER ROWE There may be even more public schools hiring equity proRowe said she’s currently in a consortium “We always want to racialize equity work, LTHS director of equity of school equity professionals across the fessionals in the future, particularly since the Illinois State and that’s not where it should live and die,” and belonging northwest suburban region, which includes Board of Education made equity a central focus in its recent she said. “It connects into everything. The suburbs like Oak Park. There are about 15 strategic plan. best school districts provide the best educa“The strategic plan offers this concise definition of these members of the consortium — “we’re all Aftion for all of our students. We have to look rican American except for one Latina” — and goals: ‘Equity means having high expectations for every at how we’re applying that equity lens. What they’ve been meeting for the last year to talk learner and providing supports and resources so each decisions are we making? What does our day learner can meet those expectations,’” ISBE states on the shop. look like? What materials are we using? All But the consortium is so new, Rowe said, Equity Information and Resources page of its website. of this is connected. It’s not one thing.” “A lot of schools are adding the position because they Rowe said her career as a classroom teacher helped form that they’re still working on a name for it. need the advice and it’s kind of scary leading that charge,” “We are really fresh,” she said. her as an educator. And the movement to hire equity professionals isn’t con- Rowe said, adding that Indian Prairie may have been the “When you’re a teacher of color and realize that there tained to schools. Equity hiring is all the rave across sectors. “first or second” school district in the entire state to hire aren’t that many of you, but there are a lot of kids of color According to a recent analysis by Glassdoor, the employ- an equity director, when it did so about a decade ago. who want to see themselves in you — that understanding “People want to do the right thing and they want to do ment website, job postings for diversity, equity and inclushaped me as a young educator,” she said. “So, for most of the first part of my career, I was focused on being an excel- sion (DEI) roles in the United States rose by 30 percent in this work, but it’s how you do it,” she added. “Schools are often asked to do so much without the tools and resources 2019. lent teacher.” A month after the George Floyd murder in May 2020, DEI- to do it. Communities have an expectation that we have to Rowe said the experience stayed with her when she transitioned into a career as a dean and she worked to develop related job openings started to rise by 55 percent after fall- do our best in educating students, staff and families. So, restorative justice practices and on various initiatives that ing by 60 percent at the start of the pandemic in March, the we need someone who has that area of expertise to lead fostered a sense of belonging, particularly among Black analysis showed. the charge in that work.”

“Equity is not something added to the plate. It is the plate.”

The Landmark, September 1, 2021

Opinion KOSEY CORNER

THE LANDMARK VIEW

The inevitability of change

t’s hard to let go of traditions. Especially when it comes to institutions that shape our lives, losing the tangible presence of buildings that have played such important roles in our lives can hurt. There’s no doubt about that. The reaction to news published last week that St. Nikola Serbian Orthodox Church in Brookfield had made an inquiry about purchasing the St. Barbara Church campus a few blocks to the north was painful to some. Because the folks at St. Nikola Church already had found out about their parish leadership’s interest in St. Barbara -- they started an online petition opposing it the week before the story was published – most of the concerns appear to have been on the part of parishioners at Holy Guardian Angels Parish, which counts St. Barbara Church as one of its two worship sites. One person wrote The Landmark stating the article was “offensive” and also claimed the report was “unsubstantiated.” That led us to wonder whether that person had taken the time to read the article, because the article clearly pointed out that St. Nikola’s interest in St. Barbara was confirmed by both the pastor of Holy Guardian Angels and the president of the St. Nikola Church board of directors, both of whom were quoted. The article prompted Holy Guardian Angels’ pastor, the Rev. Brian Kean, to address the article in a letter to his parishioners last week. His note essentially restated what the Landmark reported. Perhaps there are some who didn’t like the fact that they had heard about St. Nikola’s interest in St. Barbara from the Landmark and not from their own parish leaders. Well, that’s our job, and if parishioners feel there needs to be better intra-parish communication, they should address that internally. All of that said, we believe Holy Guardian Angels parishioners ought to be realistic about the parish’s ability to support two church campuses. While the parish has not sought to sell St. Barbara Church or the parish center across the street, it’s the Archdiocese of Chicago that will end up making that call. The cost to maintain all of those buildings versus the amount of money the archdiocese might realize from the sale of the St. Barbara campus will likely be too much for the archdiocese to ignore. Even if St. Nikola Church ends up shelving any plan to try and buy the St. Barbara properties, that campus, which takes up a sizeable chunk on both sides of Prairie Avenue from Windemere to Ogden, will be attractive to developers. We can’t predict the future, but this won’t be the last time the parish gets an offer to sell its Brookfield holdings, and the village will be happy to get those properties back on the tax rolls if it comes to that. It’s been a tough couple of years between the merger of two proud Catholic parishes and the uncertainty of their ability to fund maintenance of the old, unused school and convent buildings. Change is hard, but change is going to come. And the Landmark is going to report on it.

A year later we’ll celebrate 2020 Person of the Year

any things that should have happened in 2020 got put on hold due to COVID, and well into 2021 we’re trying to get back to some semblance of order and play catch up. That’s what the Riverside Township Lions Club is doing to recognize the Riverside’s Person of the Year for 2020. Last year, Riverside Foods’ Peter Boutsikakis was named Person of the Year and was to have been honored at a dinner at the Riverside Golf Club. Obviously, it couldn’t happen, so Peter has kept his “title” and will be honored on Sept. 23. Boutsikakis joins a long list of business people, especially during the early years of the award, named Person of the Year. While most of those early winners were men, the list soon included women and two couples, Lloyd and Dorothy Unger and Lew and Martha Heine. Only one organization, the Riverside Junior Women’s Charity, has been named to the list. The Lions Club seeks nominations throughout the year, and its next Person of the Year will be announced in 2022. Honorees are chosen by a committee from the mem-

bership of the Lions Club who review nominations. It was an easy choice when Peter Boutsikakis was nominated many times. Boutsikakis, recently married and now a Riverside resident, is more familiar as co-proprietor of Riverside Foods. Aside from running a business that serves our basic needs, he goes a step further in trying to provide items that are requested. He is supportive of the community and is generous where there is a need. Most recently he assisted James Long as he worked towards receiving his Eagle Scout award. The dinner will be held on Sept. 23 at the Riverside Golf Club, 2520 Desplaines Ave. in North Riverside with cocktails (cash bar) at 6 p.m. and dinner at 7 p.m. Tickets are $48 and can be purchase at Aunt Diana’s, Riverside Bank and the Riverside Public Library beginning next week until Sept. 17. Questions? Call 708 447-5219. Information can also be viewed on Facebook. COVID protocols will be observed in keeping with state and local guidelines. It’s never too late to honor someone like Peter Boutsikakis for Person of the Year 2020 even if it is the year 2021. Congratulations to a worthy recipient.

JOANNE KOSEY

OBITUARIES

Joan Frieberg-Halas, 89 Worked in medical insurance office Joan Frieberg-Halas (nee Rapp), 89, of Elmhurst and formerly of Brookfield, died Aug. 23, 2021. Ms. Frieberg-Halas loved reading and would often tell people that she “hasn’t stopped reading since she learned to read.” She said yes to every adventure due to her love for traveling, hiking, camping and the outdoors. Every May you could find her JOAN FRIEBERG-HALAS in Indianapolis or in front of her TV as she watched the Indy 500. Some of her other favorite things included collecting giraffes and “The Wizard of Oz.” She enjoyed cheering on the Badgers as a University of Wisconsin alumna and a proud member of the Pi Beta Phi sorority. She was retired from a job working in the office of a medical insurance company. Ms. Frieberg-Halas was the wife of the late George

J. Halas; the mother of Bradley (Kathi) Frieberg, Blair (Laura) Frieberg, Kurtis (Jennifer) Frieberg; the grandmother of Diana (Ross) Plattner, Meredith (Andrew) Henson, Jennifer (Ryan) Ramshaw and Melissa (Benjamin) Brondos; the great grandmother of Miles Henson and Cole Henson; the sister of the late Jayne (the late Herbert) Dunker and Bill (the late Sallie) Rapp; and a friend to many. Services and interment are private. Hitzeman Funeral Home, Brookfield, handled arrangements. Sympathy cards can be mailed to Hitzeman Funeral Home, 9445 31st St., Brookfield, 60513, c/o the Joan Frieberg-Halas family.

Helen Martinkus, 95 Dedicated Mater Christi parishioner Helen Martinkus (nee Gerchas), 95, of North Riverside, died Aug. 29, 2021. Ms. Martinkus was born Jan. 22, 1926 in Mason City, Iowa. All enjoyed her delicious cooking and wonderful hospitality. She was dedicated to Mater Christi Church and loved

The Landmark, September 1, 2021

MANDATES Local support from page 11 98 percent of cases, 96 percent of hospitalizations and 95 percent of deaths since January have been among unvaccinated people. While vaccines are the best defense, Ezike said, “wearing a mask continues to be one of the simplest, cheapest ways to reduce the spread of COVID-19.” Intensive care bed availability in southern Illinois is at 3 percent, Pritzker said. “That’s because the regions with the lowest vaccination rates are the regions where there are fewer hospitals, and lower hospital capacity,” Pritzker said. “And those hospitals are sometimes the least well-equipped to handle cases as they become more acute.” He added, “We are continuing to rely on experts at the [U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention] and [Illinois Department of Public Health], but you don’t need to be an epidemiologist to understand what’s going on

here. This is a pandemic of the unvaccinated.” The current vaccination rates – nearly 53 percent of the state’s population is vaccinated – “are not enough to blunt the ferocity of the delta variant,” which has led to hospitals “again fighting the battle that we had hoped would be behind us by now.” Riverside school officials expressed support for the vaccine mandate, although they noted that their teachers didn’t need such a mandate to convince them to get inoculated. “We have not required formal proof [of vaccination], but based on self-reports we are at 100 percent of our certified staff and then we are very close on all employees,” said Riverside Elementary School District 96 Superintendent Martha Ryan-Toye. “A mandate to me is very, very encouraging. Hopefully it will encourage just the few remaining employees that are not vaccinated to move forward with it.” Marty Sloan, the president of the RBEA, the teachers’ union at Riverside-Brookfield High School said the membership had no problem with the mandate. “The RBEA has always favored better COVID health and safety measures,” Sloan

OBITUARIES serving as president of the Sisters of St. Casimir auxiliary for many years. She was a member of Catholic Daughters Club, a Cub Scouts den mom and a member of Mater Christi Ladies Guild. Ms. Martinkus HELEN MARTINKUS was the wife of the late Anthony Martinkus; the mother of James (Anne) and Susan (Bob) Foody; the grandmother of Wendy, Amy, Jocelyn, Lisa, Jessica, Chase and her many great grandchildren who were the loves of her life; the sister of late Julia Cook; and a dear friend to many Kuratko-Nosek Funeral Home, North Riverside, handled arrangements. Online condolences may be offered at KuratkoNosek.com.

Leonard G. Murray, 63 Worked for hospitality company Leonard G. Murray, 63, of Brookfield, died Aug. 21, 2021. Mr. Murray was born Sept. 19, 1957 in Chicago and worked as a clerk for a hospitality company. He was the son of the late John F. Sr. and the late Dorothy LEONARD G. MURRAY M. (nee Smith) Murray; the brother of John F. Murray Jr., Kathleen (Todd) Ford and Sr. Pat Murray C.S.J.;

and the uncle of Richard Murray. A funeral mass was celebrated Aug. 30 at St. Barbara Church, Brookfield. Interment was at Queen of Heaven Cemetery, Hillside. Johnson-Nosek Funeral Home, Brookfield, handled arrangements. Online condolences may be offered at JohnsonNosek.com.

Peggy J. Neiweem, 56 Former LaGrange Park resident Peggy Jean Neiweem, 56, of Countryside and formerly of LaGrange Park, died Aug. 6, 2021 She was the daughter of the late Bernard and late Margaret (nee Beck) Neiweem; the sister of Bern (Deby), John PEGGY J. NEIWEEM (Annette), the late Jane Ann and the late Mark (Sally); and the aunt of Christopher, Mark, Jessica, Eric, Charlie and Kyle. Private inurnment will be at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery in Elwood with her parents. Johnson-Nosek Funeral Home, Brookfield, handled arrangements. Online condolences may be offered at JohnsonNosek.com.

Agnes F. Pajer, 84 Administrative assistant Agnes F. Pajer (nee Sterba), 84, of LaGrange Park and formerly of Berwyn, died Aug. 19, 2021. Ms. Pajer worked as an administrative

told the Landmark. “Opposing a vaccine mandate is inconsistent with what our members have previously supported. A majority of the staff took the vaccine as soon as it became available. The staff members I hear from simply want a return to normalcy. Hopefully, our regular lives will return sooner as a result of these mandates.” Meanwhile, Brookfield-LaGrange Park District 95 Superintendent Mark Kuzniewski questioned how to enforce the mandate or administer testing. “I think right off the bat my initial reaction is this is like other announcements that have come through the pandemic with no warning and no ability to plan to how we will respond other than be given a very generic template where we insert our district name,” Kuzniewski said. That said, according to Kuzniewski, as of the end of the 2020-21 school year, about 95 percent of District 95 teachers had been vaccinated. Republicans in the Illinois General Assembly, meanwhile, continue to call on the governor to further involve the General Assembly in his COVID-19 response.

House Republican Leader Jim Durkin, of Western Springs, shared a letter he sent to Pritzker on Monday, noting he got a call from the governor Wednesday night seeking input on a potential response amid the new COVID-19 wave. But, according to the letter which his office shared with members of the media, Durkin said he received a breaking news brief shortly after the phone call which outlined Pritzker’s planned announcement for the Thursday news conference. “I will reiterate my plea on our call yesterday to please make your experts available to the General Assembly so that we can examine their data and plans, review the results of your many previous mandates and together plot a course of action that will work,” Durkin said in the letter. “You have the authority to call for a special session of both chambers to address this very critical issue, and I am imploring you to do so immediately.” Pritzker said he’s “always been available” to GOP leadership and rank-and-file members, and “when the legislature talks to me, I listen.” Bob Skolnik contributed to this report.

assistant at a high school. She was the wife of the late Leo Pajer; the mother of Katherine (Jim) Heetel, Thomas (Kandi) Pajer and Joseph Pajer; the grandmother of Athena, Caius, Hadrian, Max, AGNES F. PAJER Jake, Cole and Scarlet; and sister of the late George (the late Elaine) Sterba. Services have been held. Interment was at Queen of Heaven Cemetery, Hillside. Memorial donations may be made to Sokol Spirit, Memorial Fund, 450 7th Ave., LaGrange, 60525. Hitzeman Funeral Home, Brookfield, handled arrangements. Sympathy cards can be mailed to Hitzeman Funeral Home, 9445 31st St., Brookfield, 60513, c/o the Agnes Pajer family.

Susan Rotter and Sharon (William) Creed; the grandmother Kevin (Priya) Creed, Paul (Emmie) Rotter, Gina Rotter, Casey Creed and Isabelle Echevarria; the great grandmother of Paul Rotter; and the sister of Victor Comans. Visitation is Wednesday, Sept. 1 from 4 to 8 p.m. at Hitzeman Funeral Home, 9445 31st St., Brookfield. Services are private. Interment is private at Resurrection Cemetery, Justice. Sympathy cards can be mailed to Hitzeman Funeral Home, 9445 31st St., Brookfield, 60513, c/o the Rochelle Rotter family.

Rochelle M. Rotter Artist worked in a variety of media Rochelle M. Rotter (nee Comans), of Brookfield, died Aug. 30, 2021. Proudly independent until her last day, Ms. Rotter was a talented artist in many media, including painting, miniatures and quilts. Those lucky to know ROCHELLE M. ROTTER her were graced by a loving, caring and thoughtful presence. We are all better for having known her and will carry her legacy forward. Ms. Rotter was the wife of the late Paul W. Rotter; the mother of Paul (Rita) Rotter,

Rita J. Strojny, 70 Former Riverside resident Rita J. Strojny (nee Glug), 70, of Gulf Shores, Alabama and formerly of Riverside, died Aug. 28, 2021. She was the wife of Michael J. Strojny for a loving 47 years; the daughter of Mary and the late Raymond Glug; the mother of RITA J. STROJNY the late Elizabeth Strojny and Margaret Strojny; the sister of Karen (Giancarlo) Turano and Marlene (William) Economu; and an aunt, cousin and friend to many. Family and friends are gathering for visitation and funeral Mass at Mack Funeral Home in Robertsdale, Alabama, on Friday Sept. 3 followed by interment at Silver Hill Cemetery, Silver Hill, Alabama. Future local memorial services to be determined. In lieu of flowers, any donations collected will be gifted to Tall Ships America and sent to Tall Ships America, c/o of Liz Strojny Memorial Fund, P.O. Box 1459, Newport, Rhode Island, 02840.

The Landmark, September 1, 2021

Sports

@RBLandmark

Novak rescues Bulldogs with clutch kick as time expires RBHS surrenders 20-point lead late before 49-yard blast secures victory

By BOB SKOLNIK Contributing Reporter

Matt Novak had never kicked a 49-yard field goal in his life. The Riverside-Brookfield High School senior, who appears to be generously listed at 5-foot-11 and 180 pounds, had never even attempted a 49-yard field goal in his life, not even in practice. But late Friday night, Novak boomed a 49-yard field goal through a light breeze as time expired on the clock to give RBHS a thrilling 23-21 victory over Morton in the season opening football game at the Martin Kennelly Athletic Complex in Brookfield. Ironically, a minute or so before his gamewinning kick, Novak had badly shanked his first attempt and the ball fell well short and to the left of the uprights. But Morton coach Bob Organ had called a second consecutive timeout just a fraction of a second before the snap in an attempt to ice Novak, so that kick did not count. After seeing Novak miss so badly, RBHS coach Brendan Curtin considered trying some type of trick to try to pull Morton offside to at least get Novak five yards closer, but Novak told Curtin in the huddle during the time out that he needn’t bother with that. “I knew what I had to do after that first miss, so I came back to that huddle and I told coach, ‘I got it,’” Novak said.

Novak, who also plays wide receiver and defensive back, had just won the field goal kicking job a few days earlier after battling with junior Ignace Bielobradek all summer. Curtin had decided to let Novak kick field goals while Bielobradek handled kickoffs and punting. “He was kind of hot the last few days so we’ll give Matt the field goals, Iggy the kickoffs,” Curtin said explaining the decision. When the ball sailed through the middle of the uprights with just a yard or two to spare, it salvaged a game in which the Bulldogs (1-0) had squandered a 20-0 third quarter lead by allowing two touchdowns in the fourth quarter as they wilted against Morton’s power ground game in the oppressive 88-degree heat and humidity. Morton (0-1), which had a decided size advantage on both sides of the ball, had taken the lead on a one-yard touchdown run and two-point conversion run by 240-pound running back Quentin Dillion (10 carries, 55 yards) with just 1:29 left in the game. But after the ensuing kickoff, RBHS quarterback T.J. Sloan (14-of-26 passing for 129 yards and 1 touchdown), aided by a 15-yard roughing the passer call on Morton, drove the Bulldogs into field goal range. On the drive Sloan connected with Marques Turner for a 13-yard completion and hit Brady Vaia (6 catches, 93 yards, 1 TD) for a 12-yard completion to put the

Bulldogs in field goal range at the Morton 29 yard line. But after a swing pass to Ryan Novak lost four yards, Curtin called upon Novak with just 5.9 seconds left on the clock. “This is my fourth year up here [on varsity]; I did not want to let the boys down,” Novak said. “I wanted to do it for everyone else. I had that edge. I just knew I was going to hit it.” Novak also caught seven passes for 40 yards and caught the first pass of the final drive for a three-yard gain. RBHS had built a 13-0 halftime lead with two touchdowns in the second quarter. First Sloan hit Vaia for what looked to be about a 10-yard completion before Vaia broke a tackle and bounded into the end zone for a 23-yard touchdown with 6:38 left in the second quarter. Then Turner scooped up a Morton fumble and raced 16 yards to score, giving the Bulldogs a 13-0 lead. After a short punt and a good punt return by Vaia put the Bulldogs on the Morton 23 yard line after Morton’s first possession of the third quarter, Curtin, in a move that was decided before the game began, turned to sophomore quarterback Diego Gutierrez. Gutierrez completed just one of four passes for 10 yards but showed his speed and athleticism by scrambling for 10 yards down to the Morton 3-yard line. But Guti-

errez injured his left foot on the play and went out of the game and did not return. “Diego made some really impressive plays,” Curtin said. “He has an ability to extend plays with his legs, he’s got a pretty good pocket presence, keeps his eyes downfield.” Ryan Novak bulled in from the one yard line with 8:31 remaining in the third quarter to give the Bulldogs a 20-0 lead before the RBHS offense stalled and Morton started its comeback. The Bulldogs played without one of the best players, wide receiver Owen Murphy, who was in Florida trying out for the 18-under Team USA baseball team. The heat and humidity took its toll on both teams and many players began suffering from cramps. A large crowd packed the stadium for the first fall football game before an unrestricted crowd in nearly two years. “It’s just so many people that you haven’t seen in a while, hanging out with a bunch of your classmates, a good time,” said RBHS junior Sam Egan. Egan has played some recreational sports with Matt Novak and knew that he was a good athlete. Still, he was not optimistic when Novak lined up for the 49-yard attempt, especially after the first shank. “I didn’t know he had that kick in him,” Egan said.

LTHS knocks off soccer powerhouse Naperville North Lions push past top-ranked Huskies 2-0, have no allowed a goal yet

By BILL STONE Contributing Reporter

With an 8 a.m. starting time Saturday, senior defender Jackson Sullivan and his Lyons Township High School boys soccer teammates could have been flat following an emotional and memorable victory the night before. The Lions defeated Round Lake 1-0 in the Northside College Showcase hosted by New Trier -- partly with the momentum of their resounding 2-0 victory at preseason No. 1-ranked Naperville North but also remembering their only loss this past spring to Addison Trail in an early-morning match. “We would have had a perfect [12-0] season. We didn’t come ready to play and paid the

price [losing 1-0],” Sullivan said. “This year, we came out with a better attitude and awake. Any team we faced, we were going to treat them as the best team we’ve ever played.” The Lions (2-0-1) have yet to allow a goal after starting with a scoreless tie against Sandburg on Aug. 23. Senior Dom Panopoulos scored Saturday with junior Ben Swicionis assisting. At Naperville North, sophomore Liam Wiesnewski scored just before halftime off junior Liam Carolan’s cross. Senior Anthony Curran tallied in the 58th minute with senior Finn Mahaney assisting. “Naperville North is always a team that dominates us and to go there with a must-win attitude was great to have on the bus and in the locker room,” Sullivan said. “It carried

over to our play. Everyone showed up and left everything they had.” The Lions also beat preseason No. 1 Morton in their spring opener, but LTHS coach Paul Labbato could not clearly remember the last time the program defeated Naperville North, the Class 3A state champions from 2016-18. “It’s been quite a long time,” Labbato said. “Coming off our first game, where the players felt like they didn’t live up to their potential, they certainly looked at that game and who we were playing and felt like they had something to prove.” Sullivan, Ryan Herchenroether and midfielder Aidan Hilling are senior team captains. Following several key graduations, the Lions are most experienced on the defensive

line with Sullivan, Panopoulos and Herchenroether joined by seniors Fisher Daniels and Luke Stockbridge as the new starting goalie. Sullivan said Daniels, who does not play defense for his club team, gave an exceptional performance against Naperville North. Other standouts have included senior forwards Curran, Mahaney and Zach Steck, and junior Patrick Kracker and sophomore Colin Sullivan at midfield. This is the first time the Sullivan brothers have been soccer teammates. “It’s pretty awesome to think about and it’s definitely an amazing memory,” Jackson Sullivan said. “To have him on the field with me, someone I can trust and know what he can do, he’s a good, hard worker.”

The Landmark, September 1, 2021

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Local company looking for part time driver/warehouse. Must be drug free & have valid IL DL. Must be able to lift 75lb. $13/hr Email resume to HR@SIEVERTELECTRIC.COM

PAID-ON-CALL FIREFIGHTER

• Lead Teacher, Tots Prep Program ($12-$14 per hour) • Assistant Teacher, Tots Prep Program ($11-$12 per hour) Apply through the Careers link on the Village of Brookfield homepage.

Hephzibah Children’s Association Hephzibah Children’s Association is a social service agency in Oak Park, IL with a variety of programs including Residential Group Homes. Our mission is “To help children thrive and families flourish through innovative community-based programs”. Join our team now and you will be eligible for a signing bonus paid in installments (must be active at time of payout).

Residential Counselor - full time and part time positions - Signing Bonus

Residential Supervisor - full time and part time - Signing Bonus

We are currently seeking candidates to work in our residential Group Homes program. You will provide physically and emotionally nurturing care to children who have trauma histories in a structured therapeutic environment that provides consistency and predictability in a community-based setting. We have a several part time and full time shifts available including, overnight, mornings, afternoons/evenings and weekend shifts. Shifts include: • Full time weekdays -4-10 hours shifts: Noon-10:00 pm and every third weekend • Full time overnights - Saturday-Tuesday 9:00pm-7:00 am • Part time weekends - flexible, but includes morning & evening shifts on Saturdays & Sundays • Part time: Friday and Saturday, noon-10pm and Sunday, 7:00am-noon Flexibility to work additional shifts if needed, is desired. Requirements include: • Bachelor’s degree • Must be at least 21 years old • Experience working with special needs children • Experience writing Medicaid notes a plus • Valid IL drivers license • Sensitivity and responsiveness to the cultural differences in the staff and client populations

We are currently seeking supervisor candidates to work in our residential Group Homes program. You will provide supervision to the staff and physically and emotionally nurturing care to children with trauma history in a structured therapeutic environment that provides consistency and predictability in a community-based setting. We have a several part time and full time shifts available including, overnight, mornings, afternoons/ evenings and weekend shifts. Shifts include: • Full time overnight – Wed-Saturday 9:00pm-7:00am • Part time – weekends Friday, Saturday, Sunday days • Part time – various days/times Flexibility to work additional shifts if needed, is desired. Requirements include: • Bachelor’s degree • Must be at least 21 years old • Supervisory experience • Experience working with special needs children • Experience writing Medicaid notes a plus • Valid IL driver’s license • Sensitivity and responsiveness to the cultural differences in the staff and client populations

Equal Opportunity Employer Hephzibah Children’s Association is an equal opportunity employer. We welcome qualified applicants from all backgrounds to apply. We value, advocate for and support an inclusive, respectful, multicultural, environment for employees and the clients we serve.



PART TIME DRIVER ASAP

Job Title: Paid-on-Call Firefighter Description: The Village of Riverside Fire Department is seeking applicants for the position of Paidon-Call Firefighter. Additional Status Information: This is not a full-time position. Qualifications: - In good physical condition - Reside within 1.5 miles of the boundaries of the Village of Riverside at time of appointment - Be 18 years of age at the time of application - Possess a high school diploma or GED - Possess a valid driver’s license with a good driving record Miscellaneous Applications are reviewed in October 2021. Application deadline is Friday, October 8th, 2021. The Village of Riverside is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

BUDGET & REVENUE ANALYST

The Village of Oak Park is seeking qualified candidates for the position of Budget and Revenue Analyst in the Finance Department. This position will Serve the public with professional administrative and analytical duties in the areas of budget preparation, purchasing, payroll, data analysis and process improvement. Provides, prepares and maintains records, and financial and statistical reports and analysis which assist in the Village’s ability to improve business processes and gain efficiencies through better use of technology. Budget duties include assisting in the development, analysis and application of performance measures with regard to Village services and resources; preparing, modifying, tracking and monitoring Village expenses and transfers; grants, and conducting budget-related research and analysis. 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. First review of applications August 27, 2021.

    

PARKING ENFORCMENT OFFICER

The Village of Oak Park is seeking qualified candidates for the position of Parking Enforcement Officer in the Police Department Field Services Division. This position will perform a variety of duties and responsibilities involved in the enforcement of Village parking regulations; and to provide general information and assistance to the public. Applicants are encouraged to visit the Village of Oak Park’s website http://www.oakpark.us/. Interested and qualified applicants must complete a Village of Oak Park application.

PART TIME HELP WANTED

SPOTLESS CARWASH at 7343 Roosevelt and 7802 Madison St in Forest Park is in need of an attendant. We are looking for someone who likes to be outside and is friendly and likes people. The duties are to meet and greet customers, make change, sell tokens, automatic and self serve wash instructions, keep the lot, equipment room, and perimeter clean, and empty garbage cans. Pay is $11.00 per hour. The hours an attendant is on duty are 9 – 11 and 12 – 5 on weekdays, 9 – 11:30 and 12 – 4 on Saturday and Sunday. If you can ﬁt any of these hours on a part time basis we can work with you. Please come to 7343 Roosevelt Rd. in Forest Park to pick up anapplication. 708-771-2945.

HIRING BONUS!

Part Time Positions Available for 2021-22 school year

AFTER-SCHOOL RECREATION / DAY CARE WORKER YOUTH DEVELOPMENT SPECIALIST ON SITE AT OAK PARK PUBLIC SCHOOLS

The Day Care Program of Hephzibah Children’s Association is accepting applications for nurturing individuals to provide care and supervision of 5-11-year-old children in the After School Day Care program on site at Oak Park public schools. The days and hours are Mon – Fri from 2:30-6:00 PM and 2:00-6:00 PM on Wednesdays. Plan and supervise arts and crafts, indoor & outdoor play, games, sports, homework help and more. Requirements include: -previous experience working with children -6 semester hours in education, recreation, social work or related college courses desired

CROSSING GUARD

The Forest Park Police Department is seeking qualiﬁed individuals for the position of Crossing Guard. This position requires ﬂexible hours during days when schools are in session. A background investigation and drug screening will be conducted prior to consideration for the position. Applications available at Village Hall, 517 Desplaines Avenue or on-line at www.forestpark.net and should be returned to Vanessa Moritz, HR Director, at Village Hall. For additional information, contact Dora Murphy at 708-615-6223 or write dmurphy@forestpark.net.

Adnet 090121 LIMS DEVELOPERS

Applications accepted until position is ﬁlled. EOE. LIMS Developers sought by Merieux NutriSciences (Chicago, IL) to create, optimize & mntn SQL queries that support applctn fncnlty & oprtnl activities, etc. Deg'd applicants exp'd w/dvlpng database objcts and using SQL & PL/SQL, etc. send resume to megan.mccarty@mxns.com

Program starts mid-August and runs through the 2021-22 school year. Contact MJ Joyce at mjjoyce@hephzibahhome.org Equal Opportunity Employer We are an inclusive employer and welcome people from all backgrounds to apply

Thank you

HIRING BONUS! HEPHZIBAH DAY CARE PROGRAM SITE SUPERVISOR

Hephzibah Children’s Association offers after school day care on site at each of the Oak Park elementary schools. The Day Care Program is accepting applications for a Site Supervisor for the 2021-2022 school year to provide supervision to childcare staff as well as care and supervision of 5-11-year-old children. Regular days and hours are Monday through Friday from 2:30 - 6:00 PM, Wednesday 1:30 – 6:00 PM. Additional hours on school closing days, in coordination with the school district calendar. May work other hours during school holidays and for staff meetings. Associate degree in child development or early childhood education, or the equivalent in child development or education desired. Previous experience working with children required. Program starts mid-August and runs through the school year. Additional hours for staff meetings and on school closing days in coordination with the school district calendar. Contact MJ Joyce at: mjjoyce@hephzibahhome.org Equal Opportunity Employer We are an inclusive employer and welcome people from all backgrounds to apply

Find Help Wanted & Marketplace listings on the next page!

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

The Landmark, September 1, 2021

CLASSIFIED

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

MARKETPLACE GARAGE/YARD SALES

ITEMS FOR SALE

R E N TA L S & R E A L E S TAT E CARS WANTED

MUST SELL CANTILEVER PATIO UMBRELLA - TOO BIG FOR OUR PATIO

Oak Park

GARAGE SALE ALL ITEMS FREE 635 N EUCLID

TAN “SUNNYGLADE DELUXE” 10X13 FT UMBRELLA. INCLUDES 4: SQUARE, BASE PLATE WGT.BY “BEST CHOICE PRODUCTS” $200 CALL (708) 488-8122

(Garage accessible from street) SAT 9/4, 9AM-1PM FIRM Kids toys/bikes, yard/garden, assorted housewares, games/toys, other. All items will be FREE! (Optional donations accepted to Beyond Hunger) Oak Park

GARAGE SALE 639 N RIDGELAND (PARKING PAD ACCESSED FROM ALLEY) SAT 9/3 AND SUN 9/4 • 9AM TO 3PM

WANTED TO BUY WANTED MILITARY ITEMS: Helmets, medals, patches, uniforms, weapons, ﬂags, photos, paperwork, Also toy soldiers – lead, plastic – other misc. toys. Call Uncle Gary 708-522-3400

Furniture, cooking and baking utensils, ﬂatware, glassware, assorted household items

OFFICE SPACE FOR RENT THERAPY OFFICE OAK PARK

CLASSICS WANTED CLASSICS Restored or Restored or Unrestored Unrestored Cars & Vintage Motorcycles Cars & Vintage Motorcycles Domestic / Import Import Cars: Cars:

Mercedes, Corvette, Mercedes,Porsche, Porsche, Corvette, Ferrari’s, MuscleCars, Cars, Ferrari’s,Jaguars, Jaguars, Muscle Mustang && Mopars Mopars Mustang Top $$ Etc. $$$$Top $$allallmakes, makes, Etc.

Collector James Collector James 630-201-8122 630-201-8122

CLASSICS WANTED

R E N TA L S & R E A L E S TAT E Restored or Unrestored SUBURBAN RENTALS CarsSUBURBAN & Vintage RENTALS Motorcycles Domestic / Import Cars: BERWYN DELUXE 5 RMS

Apartment listings updated daily at:

OFFICE /RETAIL FOR RENT

Deluxe 5 RMS, 2 BDRMS, close to train and hospital. Includes heat, water, all appliances, laundry facility, parking. Just painted, new blinds. $1200/mo. Sec. dep. 1 mo. Credit Check. BROKER

Mercedes, Porsche, Corvette, Ferrari’s, Jaguars, Muscle Cars, 708-347-2500 Mustang & Mopars

630-201-8122

Find your new apartment this Saturday from 10 am – 4pm at 35 Chicago Avenue. Or call us toll free at 1-833-440-0665 for an appointment.

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

OAK PARK & FOREST PARK

708-386-7355

MMpropMgmt.com

CITY RENTALS AUSTIN RENAISSANCE APARTMENTS

A HUD subsidized affordable Apartment property announces the opening of its waiting list for both One and Two Bedroom Apartments! Resident rent is approximately 30% of gross household income, some restrictions apply. Our property is located on Washington Blvd in Chicago’s Austin neighborhood. Apartments offered with an occupancy of one to four persons. Properties feature modern kitchens, include appliances, and offer onsite maintenance. Austin Renaissance will accept requests for application packages by U.S. Mail postmarked no later than , September 15, 2021. Send or email a written request for an application package that includes your name, mailing address. Daytime telephone number, Email address, and the number of persons in your household to: Town Center Realty Group LLC, PO Box 64, Huntley IL 60142-0064 or Email requests to mrpaul.tcrg@gmail.com Application packages available by mail or email delivery only. No walk-ins accepted.

Town Center Realty Group LLC

MAGANA

C O N C R E T E C O N S T RU C T I O N “QUALITY IS OUR FOUNDATION” ESTABLISHED IN 1987

COMMERCIAL INDUSTRIAL RESIDENTIAL

708.442.7720 '5,9(:$<6 )281'$7,216 3$7,26 67(36 &85% *877(56 6,'(:$/.6 612: 3/2:,1* 67$03(' &2/25(' $**5(*$7( &21&5(7( FREE ESTIMATES LICENSED, BONDED & INSURED

ELECTRICAL Ceiling Fans Installed

ELECTRICAL

A&A ELECTRIC

Let an American Veteran do your work

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

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

Forest Park Townhouse

Free wifi; flexible leasing, and offices nicely furnished right down to the Kleenex. Secure building & friendly colleagues, often giving referrals to other office mates. Shared Waiting room, Conference room & option to join Peer Supervision Group. Ideal for new practice or 2nd location.

708-383-0729

RIVER FOREST–7777 Lake St. * 1116 sq. ft. * 1400 sq. ft. Dental Office RIVER FOREST–7756 Madison St. * 960 sq. ft. OAK PARK–6142-44 Roosevelt Rd. * 3 & 5 room office suites FOREST PARK–7736 Madison St. *2500 sq. ft. unit Strand & & Browne Strand Browne 708-488-0011 708-488-0011

ROOMS FOR RENT Large Sunny Room with fridge, microwave. Near Green line, bus, Oak Park, 24 hour desk, parking lot. $125.00. New Mgmt. 312-212-1212

$$ Top $$ all makes, Etc. HOME Collector James CEMENT CEMENT

SUBURBAN REAL ESTATE

FSBO • Principals ONLY

3 BR, 3 BA Desirable townhouse in Forest Park. 2 car heated, attached garage with extra storage. Many upgrades. Ceiling fans with lighting included. Gas & wood burning fireplace. End unit with extra windows. Hardwood floors. Close to public transportation. $418,000 • 2500 square feet Call (708) 712-8932 for info

SERVICES FLOORS

HAULING

KLIS FLOORING INC.

BASEMENT CLEANING

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

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

708-296-2060

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

FREE ESTIMATES Excellent References No Job Too Small

708-488-9411

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

773-637-0692 Ask for John

Appliances & Furniture Removal Pickup & Delivery. 708-848-9404

LANDSCAPING BRUCE LAWN SERVICE Spring Clean-Up Aerating, Slit Seeding Bush Trimming, Lawn Maintenance brucelawns.com

708-243-0571

NEIGHBORHOOD CLEAN UP

Evergreen trimming & more. Clean-ups. Garden weed removal. Storm Branch Tree Removal.

708-447-1762

PAINTING & DECORATING CLASSIC PAINTING

Fast & Neat Painting/Taping/Plaster Repair Low Cost

708.749.0011

PETS While you’re away, your pets are okay . . . at home

cat calls

Oak Park’s Original Pet Care Service – Since 1986

Daily dog exercising Complete pet care in your home )PVTF TJUUJOH t 1MBOU DBSF Bonded References

524-1030

PLASTERING McNulty Plastering & Stucco Co.

Small & big work. Free estimates. Complete Plaster, Stucco & Re-Coating Services

708/386-2951 • ANYTIME Work Guaranteed

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

Reach the people making the decisions. Place an ad in GCM Classified! Call 773/626-6332

The Landmark, September 1, 2021

CLASSIFIED

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

Let the sun shine in...

Public Notice: Your right to know

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

NOVENAS

PUBLIC NOTICES

PRAYER TO ST. JUDE May the Sacred Heart of Jesus be adored, gloriﬁed, loved & preserved throughout the world now & forever. Sacred Heart of Jesus, pray for us. St. Jude worker of miracles, pray for us. St. Jude helper of the hopeless, pray for us. Say this prayer 9 times a day for 9 days. By the 8th day your prayer will be answered. It has never been known to fail .Publication must be promised. Thank you Jesus. Thank You St . Jude. R.B.

INVITATION FOR BID

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: Y21007543 on August 5, 2021 Under the Assumed Business Name of TOBY ZUCKER JEWELRY DESIGN with the business located at: 202 N KENILWORTH AVE STE 2, OAK PARK, IL 60302. The true and real full name(s) and residence address of the owner(s)/partner(s) is: TOBY SHORE 202 N KENILWORTH AVE STE 2, OAK PARK, IL 60302, USA.

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. R.B. NEVER FAIL NOVENA May the Sacred Heart of Jesus be praised, adored and gloriﬁed throughout the world, now and for-ever. Most Sacred Heart of Jesus, I put my trust in you. Holy Mary Mother of Jesus, pray for me. St. Theresa child of Jesus, pray for me. St. Jude, helper of hopeless causes, pray for me and grant this favorI ask. Say this prayer 9 times a day for 9 days .R.B

Sealed proposals will be received by the Oak Park Residence Corporation at 21 South Boulevard, Oak Park, Il, 60302 until 2:00 p. m. local time on Tuesday, September 21, 2021 at which time they will be opened and read. The sealed bids will be received for the following project: Reroofing and attic access stairs at the Farrelly-Muriello Apartments 435 South Humphrey, Oak Park, IL. Drawings and Project Manual are available at no cost in PDF electronic format from Heitzman Architects, 213 South Euclid Avenue, Oak Park, IL 60302, telephone (708) 2671352, email frank@heitzman.org, or printed drawings and Project Manual may be obtained at the direct cost of reproduction from Imperial Reprographics and Supply, 823 South Oak Park Avenue, Oak Park, Illinois 60304, telephone (708) 848-1030. Bidders are encouraged to attend the pre bid meeting on Tuesday, September 14, 2021 at 9:00 a.m. on the first floor Farrelly-Muriello Apartments 435 South Humphrey, Oak Park, IL. Bidders having questions or needing further information may call Ken Southward at (708) 3869322, extension 134. Bid Security: Each bid must be accompanied by a bid bond in the amount of 5% of the base bid or a certified check in the same amount payable to the Oak Park Residence Corporation. Checks of unsuccessful bidders will be returned as soon as practicable after the opening of the bids. Performance Bond: The Contractor, before commencing the work, shall furnish a Performance Bond for contracts over $100,000.00. The Performance Bond shall be in an amount equal to 100% of the full amount of the Contract Sum as security for the faithful performance of the obligations of the Contract Documents. Such Bond shall be issued by a Surety satisfactory to the Owner and shall name the Owner as primary Co-Obligee. The Oak Park Residence Corporation reserves the right to award the contract to its best interests, to reject any or all proposals, to waive informalities in bidding, and to hold the three lowest proposals for a period of sixty (60) days after bid due date. This project is subject to Federal Regulations including Fair Labor and Prevailing Wages. The Oak Park Residence Corportion, in an effort to reaffirm its policy of non-discrimination, encourages the efforts of Contractors and Sub-Contractors to take affirmative action in providing for Equal Employment Opportunity without regard to race, religion, creed, color, sex, national origin, age, protected Veteran status or handicap unrelated to ability to perform the job. The Owner encourages General Contractors to employ minority subcontractors and suppliers. Due to the Covid-19 Pandemic, required distancing and masks will be required. Ken Southward Director of Housing (708) 386-9322, ext. 134 Published in Wednesday Journal September 1, 2021

Published in Wednesday Journal August 18, 25, September 1, 2021

PUBLIC NOTICE Cellco Partnership and its controlled afﬁliates doing business as Verizon Wireless (Verizon Wireless) is proposing to install three replacement light pole telecommunications facilities within River Forest, Cook Co., IL 60305 near the following addresses: (1) 31-foot light pole near 7777 Lake St. (6121006552); (1) 32-foot light pole near 424 Park Ave. (6121006553); and (1) 25-foot light pole near 752 Ashland Ave. (6121006557). Public comments regarding potential effects from these sites on historic properties may be submitted within 30 days from the date of this publication to: Project 6121006552, 6553, 6557 - MH c/o EBI Consulting, 6876 Susquehanna Trail South, York, PA 17403, mholtkamp@ebiconsulting.com, or via telephone at (785) 760-5938. Published in Wednesday Journal September 1, 2021

PUBLIC NOTICE OF COURT DATE FOR REQUEST FOR NAME CHANGE STATE OF ILLINOIS, CIRCUIT COURT COOK COUNTY. Request of STEFAN WLADYSLAW SUCHAN Case Number 2021 CONC 001009 There will be a court date on my Request to change my name from: STEFAN W SUCHAN to the new name of: STEVE W SUCHAN The court date will be held: On November 5, 2020 at 1:30 p.m. at Daley Center in Courtroom # 2503 via Zoom. Published in RB Landmark August 18, 25, September 1, 2021

PUBLIC NOTICES LEGAL NOTICE STATE OF ILLINOIS) COUNTY OF COOK )ss Circuit Court of Cook County, County Department, Domestic Relations Division. In re the marriage of ADEKUNLE AYANNEYE, Petitioner and KOWAII MATTHEW Respondent, Case No. 21D630026. The requisite affidavit for publication having been filed, notice is hereby given to you, the above named Respondent, that a Petition has been filed in the Circuit Court of Cook County, Illinois, by the Petitioner, for Dissolution of Marriage and for other relief; and that said suit is now pending. Now, therefore, unless you, the said Respondent, file your response to said Petition or otherwise make your appearance therein, in the Office of the Clerk of the Circuit Court of Cook County, Illinois, Room 802, Richard J. Daley Center, 50 West Washington Street, in the City of Chicago, Illinois, on or before September 20, 2021, default may be entered against you at any time after that day, and a judgment for Dissolution of Marriage entered in accordance with the prayer of said Petition. DOROTHY A. BROWN, Clerk. Published in Wednesday Journal August 18, 25, September 1, 2021

PUBLIC NOTICE Notice is hereby given, pursuant to “An Act in relation to the use of an Assumed Business Name in the conduct or transaction of Business in the State,” as amended, that a certiﬁcation was registered by the undersigned with the County Clerk of Cook County. Registration Number: Y21007583 on August 11, 2021 Under the Assumed Business Name of BILL & GILL’S PROPERTY MAINTENANCE with the business located at: 4112 SUNNYSIDE AVE, BROOKFIELD, IL 60513. The true and real full name(s) and residence address of the owner(s)/partner(s) is: MATTHEW DAVID GILL 4112 SUNNYSIDE AVE, BROOKFIELD, IL 60513, USA WILLIAM JOSEPH PRASCH, 2240 TERRY LN W, BROADVIEW, IL 60155, USA. Published in RB Landmark August 18, 25, September 1, 2021

PUBLIC NOTICES

PUBLIC NOTICES EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY

PUBLIC NOTICE OF INTENT REQUEST FOR THE RELEASE OF FUNDS On September 9, 2021 the Village of Oak Park (Village) will request the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to release federal funds under Title I of the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974 (PL 93383), as amended, for various activities pursuant to the Program Year (PY) 2021 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program, including: public facilities and improvements $38,862, lead hazard reduction $99,150, single family rehab loan program (revolving loan fund) $175,000, small rental rehab program $90,950, ADA sidewalk improvements $365,609, street/sidewalk ramp improvements $400,000, water line lead improvement $50,000 and alley improvements $400,000. These activities will take place within the Village of Oak Park, Illinois at a total cost of $1,619,471. An Environmental Review Record covering CDBG programs has been made by the Village, which documents the environmental review of the activities. This Environmental Review Record (ERR) is on file at the below address and is available for public examination and copying upon request from September 2, 2021 to September 9, 2021, 5 p.m. The ERR is also available on the HUD Environmental Review Online System (HEROS) at: https://www. onecpd.info/environmental-review/ environmental-review-records The Village of Oak Park will undertake the activities described above with grant funds from HUD, under PL 93-383. The Village of Oak Park and Lisa Shelley, in her official capacity as Interim Village Manager, and Tammie Grossman, in her official capacity as Development Customer Services Director, consent to accept the jurisdiction of the Federal courts if an action is brought to enforce responsibilities in relation to environmental reviews, decisionmaking, and action, and that these responsibilities have been satisfied. The legal effect of the certification is that upon its approval, the Village may use the grant funds, and HUD will have satisfied its responsibilities under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969. HUD will accept an objection of its approval of the release of funds and acceptance of the certification only if it is on one of the following bases: (a) that the certification was not in fact executed by the responsible

entity’s Certifying Officer; (b) that the responsible entity has failed to make one of the two findings pursuant to Sec. 58.40 or to make the written determination required by Secs. 58.35, 58.47 or 58.53 for the grant activity, as applicable; or (c) that the recipient or other participants in the development process have committed funds, incurred costs or undertaken activities not authorized by Sec. 58.75 before release of funds and approval of the environmental certification by HUD. Objections must be prepared and submitted in accordance with the required procedure (24 CFR Part 58) and may be addressed to HUD at 77 West Jackson Blvd., Chicago, Illinois 60604. Objections to the release of funds based on other than those stated above will not be considered by HUD. No objection received after 5 p.m., September 23, 2021 will be considered by HUD. Send objections to HUD at: CPD_COVID-19OEE-CHI@hud.gov Notice is also given that CDBG Tier 1 Broad Reviews were conducted for the following proposed projects - Village of Oak Park Public Works Infrastructure construction projects (4) that will: 1) make Sidewalk 2) make Sidewalk Ramp Improvements to improve the mobility of persons with disabilities and Street Improvements in low and moderate income (LMI) areas to replace deteriorated infrastructure; 3) make Alley Improvements in LMI areas to replace deteriorated infrastructure; and 4) make Water Main service line improvements to eliminate water main lead-based paint hazards. Further Tier 1 Broad Review projects - Village of Oak Park Housing Programs projects (3) that will: 1) reduce lead-based paint hazards for LMI homeowners; 2) rehabilitate single-family homes for LMI homeowners; and 3) rehab rental-buildings with 1-7 units to primarily benefit and improve affordability for LMI renters. Tier 2 Site Specific Reviews will be completed for those laws and authorities not addressed in the Tier 1 Broad Reviews for each address under the Oak Park CDBG program when addresses become known.

All real estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Fair Housing Act, which makes it illegal to advertise any preference, limitation or discrimination based on age, race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status or national origin, or intention to make any such preferences, limitations or discrimination. The Illinois Human Rights Act prohibits discrimination in the sale, rental or advertising of real estate based on factors in addition to those protected under federal law. This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. All persons are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised are available on an equalopportunity basis. To complain of discrimination, call HUD toll free at: 1-800-6699777. Wednesday Journal • Landmark • Forest Park Review

Lisa Shelley, Interim Village Manager, and Tammie Grossman, Development Customer Services Director, Certifying Officers 123 Madison Street Oak Park, IL 60302

Published in Wednesday Journal September 1, 2021

Let the sun shine in..

Public Notice: Your right to know In print • Online Available to you 24 / 7 / 365 RBLANDMARK.com PublicNoticeIllinois.com

The Landmark, September 1, 2021

W NE

G TIN LIS

N W CTIO E N RU ST N CO

NG MI O C

ON SO

10710 Central Ave, #3D, Chicago Ridge $179,000

337 Longcommon Rd, Riverside $975,000

205 E Quincy St, Riverside $290,000

84 Riverside Rd, Riverside $2,100,000

152 E Burlington Rd, Riverside $349,900

312 Downing Rd, Riverside $899,000

290 Lawton Rd, Riverside $949,000

2037 W Iowa St, Chicago $369,000

3125 Madison Ave, Brookfield $334,900

841 Robinhood Ln, LaGrange Park $899,000

AL NT E R

9841 S Hoyne Ave, Chicago $529,000

3137 Kenilworth Ave, Berwyn $345,000

229 Park Ave, #309, Clarendon Hills $2,650/mo

AL NT E R

201 E Burlington St, Riverside $1,900/mo

IL TA RE

24 Chicago Ave, Oak Park $19.20/sq ft

When it comes to selling and buying homes... experience, results and ties to the community make all the difference. Curious about the current real estate market and the impact on your home’s value? Thinking about selling, but need to find your next home first? Can’t find your dream home in this competitive market? Contact one of our local market experts for a free, confidential consultation.

EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY

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