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RIVERSIDE-BROOKFIELD Also serving North Riverside

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Vol. 36, No. 36

September 8, 2021

@riversidebrookfieldlandmark

Paint store pitched for Harlem Avenue site in Riverside PAGE 3

Komarek school lands $1.5 million grant from state PAGE 6

70% of Riverside Township homeowners saw tax hike Nearly 43% in township saw property taxes jump between $1,000 and $5,000 By BOB UPHUES Editor

If you own a home in Riverside Township and did a double take when you saw that your property taxes had gone up by more than $1,000, you are not alone. According to data released last month by the Cook County Treasurer’s Office, there were 1,713 out of 5,863 total residential properties – nearly 30 percent -- in Riverside Township, which includes most of Riverside and parts of North Riverside and Brookfield, where taxes increased between $1,000 and $2,500 for tax year 2020 compared to 2019. Another 807 residential properties in Riverside Township saw their taxes increase between $500 and $1,000, according to the See TAX HIKE on page 13

COURTESY OF USA BASEBALL

USA CALLING : Riverside resident Owen Murphy celebrated being chosen to play for the Team USA 18-Under baseball team by hitting a bases-clearing triple in the first game of a series against Canada last week and then following it up on Sept. 6 by pitching four innings of hitless, shutout ball in game four of the seven-game series.

Pitching in for the red, white and blue Riverside resident selected for Team USA 18U baseball squad

By BOB SKOLNIK Contributing Reporter

On Sept. 6, Owen Murphy walked out to pitcher’s mound at Tropicana Field in St. Petersburg, Florida, the home of the Tam-

pa Bay Rays, wearing a Team USA uniform to start a game against a team of Canadian 18-Under all-stars. Last week, Murphy, a 17-year-old senior at Riverside-Brookfield High School was named to the Team USA 18-Under base-

ball team and pitched the fourth game of a seven-game friendly series against Team Canada. And he rewarded the coaching staff ’s See MURPHY on page 12

The Landmark, September 8, 2021

PROVIDED

Riverside Public Safety Director Matthew Buckley (second from right) promoted police officers (from left) Sgt. Brian Greenenwald and Deputy Police Chief Frank Lara and Commander Leo Kotor to their new posts last month.

Three Riverside police officers promoted to supervisory roles Lt. Frank Lara steps into role of deputy chief of police By BOB UPHUES Editor

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In the wake of the retirements of the police department’s top two command staffers earlier this year and the reorganization of the police and fire department into a single Department of Public Safety and Emergency Management, Director Matthew Buckley announced three key promotions at a ceremony held outside of the Riverside Township Hall on Sept. 2. Buckley, who previously served as the village’s fire chief and assumed the role of director of public safety in May, said the promotions became effective Aug. 3. In addition to the three police officers who were ceremoniously sworn in on Sept. 2, Village Clerk Cathy Haley also swore in three firefighters, who received promotions to command positions back in January. “This sets the course for both [the police and fire] departments,” said Buckley of the promotions. Buckley tapped Lt. Frank Lara, a 34-year veteran of the Riverside Police Department, as the deputy police chief. He previously served as the department’s operations lieutenant and before that was detective sergeant. “He was the clear choice for moving into that position [as deputy chief] due to his experience and temperament,” Buckley said. Lara will take on additional administrative duties, such as scheduling and payroll, but, said Buckley, will continue to respond to street incidents when appropriate, which is necessary for a small department, especially one that is short-handed like Riverside’s is at the moment. “I’ve always said the street comes first,” said Buckley. With the retirement of Sgt. Frank Pontrelli on Aug. 21, the Riverside police depart-

ment is effectively down four officers, due to the retirements of Chief Thomas Weitzel and Deputy Chief William Gutschick this summer and the continued disability leave of Sgt. John Cairo, who has been out since sustaining severe injuries when a vehicle fleeing from police in Brookfield crashed into his squad car about two years ago. Two new officers are in field training right now, Buckley said. In addition to Lara, Buckley promoted Detective Sgt. Leo Kotor to commander, a rank Riverside police have not used since 2006. Kotor had been at the top of the department’s promotions list for lieutenant. One of the reasons for promoting Kotor to commander, said Buckley, is that it places Kotor on straight salary and out of the police collective bargaining unit, meaning he no longer qualifies for overtime pay. “He will oversee patrol and investigations,” Buckley said of Kotor, who has been on the force for 25 years. Buckley also announced the promotion of Officer Brian Greenenwald, who has been a member of the department for 14 years, to sergeant. Greenenwald, who was the department’s first-ever drug recognition expert, has consistently been the department’s top DUI enforcement officer. He has worked the midnight shift since the department went to permanent shifts in 2011. Although his rank was officer-in-charge (the equivalent of corporal), Greenenwald has supervised the midnight shift since Cairo’s injury placed him on long-term disability. The firefighters who were promoted in January but sworn in during the public ceremony on Sept. 2 were Deputy Fire Chief Jim Mulligan, Battalion Chief Ray Williamson and Battalion Chief Dan Tabb, who also serves as the village’s director of public works.

The Landmark, September 8, 2021

Paint store pitched at former Harlem Ave. bank site

IN THIS ISSUE

Riverside asked for incentives worth $220,000; village would get parking lot By BOB UPHUES Editor

The Riverside Village Board next month is expected to approve a package of economic incentives worth $220,000 to seal a deal that would bring a Sherwin Williams paint store to the property at 3300 Harlem Ave. and cede property at 3320 Harlem Ave. that was formerly a bank parking lot to the village. Developer Kevin Vernick, a trustee of MEV Riverside LLC, pitched village trustees on the incentive package at their meeting on Sept. 2, saying the incentives are needed to make the development financially feasible. “The cost of construction has gone through the roof, unfortunately, over the past couple of years,” said Vernick, who appeared before the village board via Zoom. “In the past six months costs have gone up, the cost of the land is extremely sensitive and unfortunately [the incentives are] going to be filling the gap.” Vernick said moving ahead with the project is contingent on the village providing the incentives, which include waiving all permit, inspection and plan review fees. Based on estimated build-out costs of $1.8 million, that would amount to about $40,000 in fees, according to Assistant Village Manager Ashley Monroe, who oversees the village’s community development department. In addition, Vernick seeks a sales tax rebate over a 10-year period, with MEV Riverside getting 80 percent of sales taxes attributed to the Sherwin Williams store until that figure reaches $180,000. That figure was reached based on Sherwin Williams sales tax information compiled from stores across the Chicago area. According to that analysis, which was provided to the village by the developer, new Sherwin Williams stores generate about $21,000 in sales taxes in year one, and ramp up gradually to about $27,400 by year 10. Vernick informed trustees that he already had staff approval of the building design and site plan for the new store. He said he’s finalizing lease details with Sherwin Williams and that should the village approve the package of incentives, the property would close either late in 2021 or early in 2022, with construction starting in spring. Village trustees expressed enthusiasm for the proposal, although there was some concern over whether economic incentives related to the sales tax rebate would be transferrable to another tenant should Sherwin Williams vacate before the 10-year term of the deal. While Vernick said he preferred the incentive package be transferrable, he also indi-

Calendar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4 Crime . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5 Classified . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17 Kosey Corner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14 Opinion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14 Obituaries. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14 Sports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16

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 Designer Susan McKelvey Sales and Marketing Representatives Marc Stopeck, Lourdes Nicholls Development Manager Mary Ellen Nelligan Development & Sales Coordinator Stacy Coleman Circulation Manager Jill Wagner E-MAIL jill@oakpark.com PROVIDED

A developer is proposing to demolish the Bank of America Building at 3300 Harlem Ave. in Riverside and build a Sherwin Williams paint store in its place. The proposed deal calls for a package of financial incentives, with the former bank parking lot across the street at 3320 Harlem Ave. being ceded to the village of Riverside. cated faith that Sherwin Williams would be a long-term tenant. The company has leased commercial space at 3401 Harlem Ave. in Berwyn, just across the railroad tracks, for decades. That store would close when the new store is built, Vernick said. The Berwyn property is privately owned, but Vernick does not appear to have a stake in the property. Whether the Riverside development is part of a more ambitious plan that would also include the present Sherwin Williams site is unknown. Vernick told the Landmark he was “not allowed to talk to the media” when a reporter reached him Sept. 3. The proposal indicates the developer will buy the former Bank of America building at 3300 Harlem Ave. and the bank’s former parking lot/drive-thru facility south of East Burlington Street at 3320 Harlem Ave. The developer plans to demolish the Bank of America building and construct a new 3,500-square-foot Sherwin Williams store with an adjacent parking lot. The main entrance/exit to the parking lot will be off Harlem Avenue. The wide curb cut along the north side of East Burlington Street, which was needed for the bank drive-thru, will be narrowed, since there is no longer a need for it.

The deal would be structured so that the .309-acre parking lot would be ceded to the village of Riverside by the developer. It’s a key gateway property next to the Metra commuter line, which has a stop at Harlem Avenue, and could be developed in a variety of ways. “I’m sure there will be a robust conversation during the budget process [later this year] and whether or not a developer approaches us about that property,” Village Manager Jessica Frances told the Landmark. “There is not a plan yet. First we need to get [the development deal] done and then get a bigger picture of what to do with that property.” Vernick has developed several sites for Sherwin Williams in recent years, including the one in Brookfield at 9540 Ogden Ave., which opened in late 2015. He typically requests incentives for developing the stores. In the case of the Brookfield development, Vernick’s firm acquired the land at Ogden and Eberly avenues for $10 from the village of Brookfield, which also waived all permit fees. The firm took out an $837,000 construction loan to build the new store and then sold the property two years later to a California real estate investor for nearly $1.5 million.

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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 8, 2021

BIG WEEK September 8-15

Shir Ende, “Walking a Corner (for three),” 2019, screen print on paper

New shows at RAC

Riverside Arts Center, 32 E. Quincy St., kicks off its new season of exhibitions Sept. 9 with two shows that will run through Oct. 16. The Freeark Gallery and Sculpture Garden will host “Coded: Coated” featuring the work of Jonathan Castillo, Hannah Givler and Paul Somers. The show is “an exercise in mystery and discovery, engaging viewers to decipher symbolism as conveyed through provocative applications of material production.” The FlexSpace Gallery hosts “Proposals and Speculations” featuring the work of Shir Ende and Lancer Livermont, who explore “ideas, new possibilities and practices in architecture from both a visual artist and a seasoned architect.” Opening reception on Sept. 12 from 3 to 6 p.m. Masks/social distancing required. Free and open to the public. Gallery hours are Thursday-Saturday, 1 to 5 p.m.

Make your own botanical box The Frederick Law Olmsted Society and Riverside Public Library invite you to attend a special Zoom presentation “The Seeds of Riverside” by Shilin Hora and Francisco Gonzales on Thursday, Sept. 9 at 7 p.m. Hora, a botanical artist, and Gonzales, a hardwood artisan, will walk you through how to make museum-quality botanical boxes to celebrate the 200th birthday of Riverside’s designer, Olmsted. Registration required at riversidelibrary.libcal.com/calendar.

Riverside Foods turns 40

Riverside Foods, 48 E. Burlington St. in Riverside, invites the community to help them celebrate 40 years in business in the village during a Sunday Fun Day customer appreciation event in the store’s parking lot on Sunday, Sept. 12 from 5 to 8 p.m. The event will feature live musical entertainment from the bands ROM and Chicha Roots, food including tacos, walking nachos, gelato and a Boar’s Head hot dog stand as well as tastings from a dozen craft brewers and distillers. Riverside Parks and Rec will offer activities for kids and there will be several raffles, including a feature raffle for a $500 gift card.

‘The Outsider’ at Theatre of Western Springs Theatre of Western Springs, 4384 Hampton Ave., kicks off its 93rd season with the comedy “The Outsider” by Paul Slade Smith and directed by Greg Kolack from Sept. 9 through Sept. 19 on the theater’s main stage. The play “skewers politics and celebrates democracy,” says Kolack. “It’s consistently funny, but at its heart it has something to say about leadership.” CDC safety guidelines will be followed. Tickets are $23-$25. Call the box office at 708-246-3380 or visit theatrewesternsprings.com.

And more ■ Habakkuk Theatre and Open Door Theater present an outdoor production of “Coastal Disturbances” at Ehlert Park, 4338 Congress Park Ave. in Brookfield, on Saturdays and Sundays through Sept. 26 at 4 p.m. Tickets are $18 at the door or online at habakkuktheatre.org. ■ 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 nonvaccinated guests. ■ North Riverside Public Library, 2400 Desplaines Ave., invites adults to the virtual program Crafternoons: DIY Mosaic Trays on Sept. 11 at 1:30 p.m. and Tuesday Book Club (in person or phone-in) on Sept. 14 at 6:45 p.m. Kids ages 4-up can choose either in-person or Zoom attendance for Learn with Lester the Llama on Sept. 11 at 10:30 a.m., ABCs and 123s on Sept. 13 at 10:30 a.m., Pajama Storytime (Zoom only) on Sept. 13 at 6:30 p.m., Story Safari on Sept. 15 at 10:30 a.m., Builders Club 2.0 on Sept. 15 at 4 p.m. and Lapsit Storytime on Sept. 16 at 10:30 a.m. Visit northriversidelibrary.org/events-new for more info. ■ 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. High school students and parents can learn college planning tips during “Insider’s Guide on the College Planning Process” via Zoom on Sept. 15 at 6 p.m. Workshop focuses on financial strategies and new FAFSA rules. Visit brookfield.evanced.info/signup to register for programs. ■ 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. Seniors can learn how to find and fund housing during the virtual event Senior 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.

P O L I C E

R E P O R T S

The Landmark, September 8, 2021

DUI arrest also brings drug charges A 47-year-old Maywood man found passed out behind the wheel of a red Chevy in the eastbound lanes of traffic on Cermak Road at the Canadian National Railroad crossing in North Riverside at about 3:15 a.m. on Sept. 2 faces both drunken driving and drug-related charges. Police said they tried to rouse the driver for several minutes before they were able to get him to respond. They also noted an open beer bottle in the center console of the vehicle. The driver reportedly admitted to drinking four and a half cups of cognac and believed he had pulled over to the side of the road on I-290. After failing field sobriety tests, including a portable breath test, the driver was arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol. While searching the car prior to it being towed, police reported finding large sums of cash along with a large number of plastic bags commonly used for packaging narcotics for sale. In all, police recovered 39 bags containing 10 grams of heroin and $2,850 in cash. In addition to DUI, police charged the man with possession of a controlled substance and manufacture/delivery of a controlled substance.

Fire under investigation Investigators said they could not conclusively say what caused a fire to break out inside a vacant home under construction at 9037

Fairview Ave. in Brookfield during the early morning hours of Sept. 5. However, they said the fire did not appear to be suspicious. Emergency personnel responded to the home at 5:35 a.m. and observed a large amount of smoke coming from the roof and attic windows. The building was being rehabbed, according to the police report of the incident, and the day prior the floors on the third floor had been stained. There was a hole burned through the floor between the ground floor and the basement directly above an electrical junction box. The police report also noted that floor staining products had been left where the burnt area was located.

DUI crash Riverside police charged a 56-year-old Riverside man with drunken driving and cited him for other traffic offenses after he allegedly crashed his white Ford Mustang into a black Honda that was parked in the 100 block of Herrick Road on Aug. 30 at about 8:45 p.m. According to police the Ford was heading eastbound on Herrick Road when it struck the Honda, which was facing westbound on the north side of the street. A preliminary breath test reportedly indicated that the driver’s blood-alcohol content was .214, which is nearly three times the legal limit of .08.

The driver, who told police that “it was dark,” wasn’t hurt in the crash. In addition to driving under the influence, police cited the driver for failure to reduce speed to avoid a crash, improper lane usage and driving an uninsured vehicle.

Catalytic converters stolen The catalytic converters were sawn off of four vehicles in Brookfield during the overnight hours of Aug. 31-Sept. 1, police reported, the latest in a series of similar thefts throughout the village in recent months. Two of the vehicles targeted were Toyotas – at least one of them a Prius, which are particular targets of catalytic converter thieves. The other two vehicles targeted were Hondas, which police described as a van and an SUV. The thefts were scattered throughout the village, occurring in the 8800 block of Plainfield Road, the 3100 block of Raymond Avenue, the 3100 block of Vernon Avenue and the 9000 block of Monroe Avenue.

Garage burglaries ■ Riverside

police responded to the 400 block of Selborne Road on the morning of Aug. 31 after a resident called to report that during the overnight hours someone had burglarized the home’s garage.

The offender gained entry through an unlocked service door, police reported, and removed three bicycles. Two vehicles inside the garage had also been ransacked, but nothing was reported missing from them. Two other bicycles inside the garage were not stolen. ■ North Riverside police responded to a residence in the 2300 block of Burr Oak Avenue on Sept. 1 after a resident called to report that someone had burglarized his garage that day between 6:30 a.m. at 6 p.m. The victim told police that when he returned home from work he found the garage overhead door open and saw that two bicycles, which had been hanging on a wall, were missing. Police reported seeing no signs of forced entry. The bikes were described as a Specialized mountain bike with black and gray front shocks and a bag on the rear rack valued at $300 and a Trek Pilot 1.2 road bike with a maroon frame and red handle bars valued at $1,000. These items were obtained from police reports filed by the Riverside, North Riverside and Brookfield police departments, Aug. 29-Sept. 5 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

The Landmark, September 8, 2021

Komarek School wins $1.5M state grant for construction project Funds will allow district to build new gymnasium east of 13th Ave. By BOB UPHUES Editor

Komarek School in North Riverside will get a new gymnasium as part of an ongoing renovation and expansion project thanks to a $1.5 million grant through the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity. School officials received word they would receive the funding in August, capping a process that began some two years ago. “This money is going to help us further to make this construction project very impactful for the school district and the community,” said Komarek School District 94 Superintendent Todd Fitzgerald in a phone interview. The school district’s success in landing the grant was aided by the support of state Rep. LaShawn Ford (D-8th), who visited the campus even prior to Fitzgerald’s arrival in 2020 to view its condition. Ford reportedly encouraged the school district to apply for the DCEO grant and personally requested it be added as a line item in the state budget, said Fitzgerald. The District 94 architect and general contractor helped school staff complete the 50-60 page grant application, which was submitted in March. “I can’t say enough about Representative Ford for making this possible,” said Fitzger-

COURTESY OF NICHOLAS & ASSOCIATES

Construction on the addition to the west wing of Komarek School (above) began in June. Officials hope the roof can go on the structure before winter sets in so construction can continue inside throughout the cold weather. ald. The money, which will be reimbursed to the school district as bills are submitted to the state for review during construction, will allow the construction of a new gymnasium east of 13th Avenue, essentially replacing the classrooms there, which will be demolished. When complete, all of the school’s classrooms will be located in the expanded and renovated west wing of the campus. The east wing will include the school district of-

fices and the two gymnasiums, essentially doubling the amount of space that can be devoted to physical education classes, team sports and village recreation programs. The base bid package for the renovation did not include a new gymnasium, but the district asked bidders to include a new-gym proposal should they get the state grant. “Students, staff and the village will benefit from this,” Fitzgerald said. “The new gym allows basketball, volleyball and physical education classes to have a larger, more

Komarek construction forum Officials at Komarek School District 94 will host a virtual community forum updating residents on the construction project on Wednesday, Sept. 8 at 7 p.m. Representatives from the architectural firm, Arcon Associates; the general contractor, Nicholas & Associates; and the school district administration will provide information on progress as well as coming phases of the project. All school families should have received an email from the school district with Zoom meeting information. That information will also be available on the North Riverside (northriverside-il.org) and Broadview (broadview-il.gov) village websites. safe environment to meet in.” The old gym, which was built in the early 1950s, does not have enough room for spectators, who sit on bleachers that come right up to the playing area. School officials had Arcon Associates, the district’s architecture firm, explore what it would take to knock down the gym’s south wall in order to create enough space for some recessed bleachers. Officials, however, determined that the roughly $800,000 cost for that project was not worth it. “That definitely was not the best use of our funds,” Fitzgerald said. Work broke ground in June on the first phase of the project, which includes building a new extension to the west campus. Since that time, crews have excavated and poured the concrete for much of the foundation of the extension, significant plumbing work, tying in the new extension to the east wing has been completed and masons are at work in different areas of the building.

High school educator chosen to fill D102 board vacancy Newest school board member has taught at LTHS for 17 years

By BOB SKOLNIK Contributing Reporter

Lyons Township High School teacher Tiziana “Tiz” Lambert was named to the LaGrange-Brookfield Elementary School District 102 Board of Education last week, replacing Brian Anderson who resigned his position on the board this summer. Lambert was selected by the school board from a field of eight candidates. She was sworn in Aug. 30 at a special meeting. The 49-year-old Lambert has lived in LaGrange since 2015 and has taught reading to students with learning disabilities at LTHS for the past 17 years. She has three daughters who all attend Cossitt School in LaGrange.

wood neighborhood of Chicago. Lambert has served on the District 102 Committee on EqShe has also worked in the youth uity and Minority Achievepsychiatric unit at MacNeal ment and has also been active Hospital in Berwyn. in the Cossitt Parent Teacher “My passion is education,” Council. Lambert told the Landmark. “I She graduated from Westlove talking about education. ern Illinois University with I love getting involved in the majors in recreation therapy schools.” and parks, recreation and leiLambert said that when the sure studies and has master’s school board vacancy opened TIZ LAMBERT degrees in special education up she thought it was a good opfrom University of Illinois at portunity to continue to make Chicago and in the teaching of reading from positive change in the district. Concordia University. “I think they’re doing a great job, but Before beginning her teaching career, with every great institution there is always Lambert was a substance abuse counselor at room for growth,” Lambert said. “Just a long-term residential facility in the Engle- vision to improve student academics. And

my biggest focus is social-emotional learning, making sure that kids have that socialemotional foundation so that the learning can happen.” School board President Michael Melendez said that all the applicants were well-qualified and it was a difficult decision to choose among the eight, but he said Lambert emerged as a consensus choice. All eight candidates were interviewed by the school board. “They all performed really well in the interviews, so it took a couple of weeks to deliberate,” Melendez said. But Lambert was ranked highly by all the members of the school board. “She was the one who consistently near the top of all of our lists,” Melendez said.

The Landmark, September 8, 2021

Bike Brookfield Week returns with self-guided tour Hundreds expected to participate in event that showcases village

By JACKIE PISANO

ing through Brookfield on two wheels can put a whole new perspective on travel and exercise. “Though we’re no longer having the As the COVID-19 pandemic turned the world upside down last year, people of all 10K, we just want to showcase the best ages were left with no other choice but to of Brookfield and hopefully encourage rethink their approach to work, travel, people to get out by bike in their town,” said Christopher Valadez, Brookfield resishopping and socialization. And while most regularly scheduled dent and founder/vice president of Cycle gatherings were either postponed or can- Brookfield. Similar to last year, Bike celled altogether, some Brookfield Week 2021 kicks thought outside the box, reoff Saturday, Sept. 11 at 7 imagining or creating new a.m. outside The Compasevents. sion Factory Art Gallery Enter the new Bike and Studio, 9210 Broadway Brookfield Week — a salute Ave. to Brookfield, neighborly There, cyclists will scan camaraderie and nature, a QR code revealing a map redeveloped from a popular of other stations across (and crowded) 10K cycling town and embark on eievent into a multi-day, inther a day-long or weekteractive and self-guided long journey to the various ride through Brookfield CHRISTOPHER VALADEZ spots on the map, dependwhere participants have Cycle Brookfield founder/VP ing on how eager they are up to one week to travel to hit as many spots as they to 20 designated stations can at once. throughout the village. Though some of the Originally created in 2015 as a community bike ride through Brook- stops along this year’s route may be simifield and the Salt Creek Trail, the event, lar to last year, Valadez said event organizwhich is co-hosted by the village of Brook- ers wanted to add an element of surprise field and nonprofit bike advocacy group and don’t want to preview all of the exact Cycle Brookfield, typically drew around spots and details of this year’s route. “We’re being intentionally a little mys400 people. It was created to encourage recreational terious because we want folks to explore biking, teach people learn the importance and get to know the town,” he said. “We’re of bike safety and demonstrate how travel- not revealing all the stations across town, Contributing Reporter

“We just want to showcase the best of Brookfield and hopefully encourage people to get out by bike in their town.”

but we are driving them to some of the stations of our partnered businesses with free perks, like free art classes and free snacks.” Participants of all ages have until Friday, Sept. 17 to finish the route, though Valadez encourages people to sign up early. The first 200 finishers will receive free Bike Brookfield T-shirts. At the conclusion of the event on Sept. 17, Cycle Brookfield and Bike Brookfield organizers will meet at 6 p.m. at The Compassion Factory, where grand prizes will be given to select participants and the group will embark on a trip across “Park Your Ride” spots across town. Park Your Ride is the inaugural villagewide art project featuring uniquely decorated bikes displayed across Brookfield through the end of September. Despite having to tweak Bike Brookfield in 2020, Valadez says last year’s week-long event saw just over 200 participants complete the entire map, with upwards of 100 more people who at least visited one or two Bike Brookfield stops throughout the course. “Last year, we really saw families leverage the opportunity we were trying to create, which is just to be out on your bike all week long and enjoy Brookfield,” Valadez said. Aside from enjoying the neighborhoods, Valadez also hopes children and families will sign up for the event as a way to both savor the season and learn new safety tips along the way.

D103 custodians rehired after complaints about building cleanliness School maintenance crews remain short-staffed say district employees By BOB SKOLNIK Contributing Reporter

Amid complaints about the cleanliness of its schools, Lyons-Brookfield School District 103 Board of Education voted on Aug. 24 to recall two of the six custodians who were laid off in the spring of 2020. Superintendent Kristopher Rivera said the district plans to restore all six custodial positions that were eliminated when school went remote in the spring of 2020 after the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. Rivera said that four of the laid-off custodians did not want to return to work for District 103, so the district is looking to hire four new custodians. “We do have the vacancies and the other

individuals did not show interest,” Rivera said. “So, the two that showed interest were recalled and now we’re going to go outside to hire the others.” A George Washington Middle School teacher told the Landmark that one day this week the garbage was not picked up in her classroom. “Yesterday was the first day my garbage was not picked up,” said the teacher, who asked not to be identified because for fear of retaliation. The teacher also complained that there was no social distancing in the hallways and that not all staff always wore masks inside the school. A custodian in the district who asked not to be identified for fear of retribution, said

that the 2020 layoff of custodians has left the district without the staff to properly clean the school buildings throughout the district. He said that only one custodian is now on the night shift at GWMS compared to the three custodians who were assigned to the school during the evening before the layoffs. “It’s impossible for one guy to clean that building at night, it’s impossible,” the custodian said. The custodian said that other schools are also short-staffed. The custodian and teacher said that with the delta variant of the coronavirus raging, they are worried about the health and safety of students and staff. “It’s a dereliction of duty on their part to be doing this,” the custodian said.

“We’ve endured some hot heat and humidity over the past few weeks, and September is a great time to get out and ride your bike,” he said. “With kids back in school, many of them are heading to school on bikes, so if this event can help them learn a new route or a safer route, then the mission of this event is served.” In addition, interested cyclists who may not have access to a smartphone or be techsavvy can stop by The Compassion Factory for a paper copy of the Bike Brookfield map. At the end of Bike Brookfield, Valadez says he hopes people consider becoming a member of Cycle Brookfield, which not only hosts other group programs throughout the year, but has also recently started a membership program which includes discounts and freebies at various supporting businesses and local establishments. “We definitely encourage folks to become members of Cycle Brookfield because not only does that allow us to continue hosting events like this, but we also have member perks.” For more information on membership rates, Cycle Brookfield and Bike Brookfield 2021, visit cyclebrookfield.com.

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The Landmark, September 8, 2021

Theater on the beach … in Brookfield

he audience pulled their lawn chairs right up to the edge of the “stage,” a virtual “beach” in the middle of Ehlert Park, 4338 Congress Park Ave. in Brookfield. “Coastal Disturbances,” a romantic comedy currently being produced by Oak Park’s Open Door Theater and Habakkuk Theatre, a troupe with a strong Brookfield connection, is being presented outdoors on the sand-filled volleyball court as a joint venture. There was great excitement before the show began since most audience members had not seen a live theatrical performance in over a year and a half. It began at 4 in the afternoon, rather like Shakespeare’s Globe Theater 500 years ago, with no theatrical lighting or sound amplification. The actors keep us informed as to what time of day it is or what is going on in terms of weather. This works well. The stage needs sand to represent a secluded private beach in New England. I cannot imagine how an indoor theater might transport several tons of sand to their performance space to depict this setting. But this location is perfect and fun. The production is tightly directed by Hilly Doyle. Haruka Hitchcock is the stage manager. It’s a light romantic comedy that is often rather funny. Yet I found playwright Tina Howe’s writing somewhat inadequate. “Coastal Disturbances” premiered Off-Broadway in the mid1980s and then transferred to Broadway. It was the show that put a 20-something Annette Bening on the map. The actors are uniformly strong in this ensemble play. Howe’s plays are noted for their quirky roles and this company manages to keep the characters fascinating, even if they’re not fully developed in the dialogue. The slender plot, essentially a series of interwoven vignettes, includes several generations of vacationers, but the heart of the story is the summer love affair between a nervous young photographer named Holly who has come to the beach to visit her aunt and a good-looking, friendly and kind lifeguard. Holly wants to get away from her troubled personal and career life. Back in New York, she is involved with a pretentious art dealer, who is older. Melody Jeffries is believable as whiny,

DOUG

DEUCHLER

Photo by Suzy Krueckeberg:

“Coastal Disturbances,” a co-production by Open Door Repertory and Habakkuk Theatre, is playing through Sept. 26 in Brookfield. Pictured left to right, Diane Wawrzyniak (MJ) and Bill Chamberlain (Hamilton).

self-absorbed, but still likable. At times she seems to be coming apart. Andrew Cawley is also credible as Leo, the sincere, niceguy lifeguard, hired late in the season in the wake of a child’s drowning. He’s also on the rebound, getting over a bad breakup. Holly seems swept away by Leo and ultimately confesses her love for him. In one scene, while she is droning on and on about dolphins, Leo buries her in the sand. There’s a long-married, 70-ish couple who are not part of the main storyline. She’s a cynical amateur painter who doubts her artistic ability while he is a retired eye surgeon who now spends his time collecting seashells on the beach. They often squabble but they have survived many decades of marriage, are still comfortable together, and celebrate their enduring love. Diane Wawrzyniak and Bill Chamberlain are fun in these roles. The two children in the cast are exceptionally good. Thora Jenkins and Spencer Schmidt, playing best buddies, are busy and bratty. If you’ve been cooped up all day with noisy, defiant children, perhaps this might not be the play for you. These two talented young performers are quite realistic. Two women are also vacationing near the beach. Tina Shelley, the artistic director of Habakkuk Theater and a Brookfield resident, is strong and a bit scary as Ariel, the bitter survivor of a messy divorce. She is not a good mother either. Unable to get over her own anger, she loses control with her young son and Photo by Suzy Krueckeberg flies into rage. Pictured top left to right, Spencer Schmidt (Winston), Thora Jenkins (Miranda), Faith, Ariel’s former college roomand bottom left to right, Melody Jeffries (Holly), Jen Connor (Faith) and Tina mate, is played by Jen Connor. She has an adopted daughter but is now finally Shelley (Ariel).

and quite obviously pregnant. These two women are judgmental of Holly but perhaps really just jealous. In an unexpected second-act visit, Holly’s pretentious, middle-aged, big-city lover, seeks to lure her back to New York City. He’s been stringing her along with the promise of a gallery exhibition. This development should pump some energy into the storyline and rescue Act 2, but it doesn’t. Playwright Howe has had a long career. It’s often pointed out that her characters are quirky and convincingly real. Several of her more popular plays are “Painting Churches” and “The Art of Dining.” But I find her writing rather flat. This slender little romance never really fully works. The characters talk a lot but reveal precious little of their inner selves. We are often left to wonder what made them who they are and why they act in such a manner. Surprisingly, there is not much chemistry in the dialogue between the lovers. Structurally, the vignettes are not tied together. Though the acting and direction are superb and the outdoor beach-like setting is perfect, there seems to be little message and not much to take away. There is one intermission in this BYOC (Bring your own chair) production. For whatever reason, my GPS would not take the park’s address. I ended up just hunting in the vicinity. Look for two blue tents on the sand volleyball court. It’s actually easy to see. “Coastal Disturbances” is a production that sports talent and energy. Despite the shortcomings of the dialogue, it was good seeing a live show outside with a crowd of other people. See Tony Award nominated “Coastal Disturbances” Saturdays and Sundays through Sept. 26 at 4 p.m. at Ehlert Park, Elm and Congress Park avenues in Brookfield. $18. Tickets/more: brownpapertickets.com/event/5182232. Doug Deuchler is a longtime educator and historian who, when he isn’t reviewing local theater for Wednesday Journal, is a stand-up comic, tour guide/docent, film class instructor and author of several books about Oak Park and surrounding communities.

The Landmark, September 8, 2021

S P O N S O R E D

C O N T E N T

Spizzico is a family affair Italian spot in Elmwood Park is built on a family legacy

MELISSA ELSMO Food Writer

Elmwood Park is known for serving up a bevy of authentic Italian meals, and Spizzico Pizza and Pasta, 7446 W. North Ave., has been bringing Italian favorites like house made pizza, pasta and baked clams to hungry restaurant goers for more than a quarter of a century. “We’ve been in business for 26 years,” said Rocco Spizzirri, owner of Spizzico. “I honestly love everything on the menu and couldn’t pick a fa-

vorite.” Spizzirri’s father bought the Elmwood Park location in 1995 and took a year to transform the former laundromat into a functional restaurant. Thanks to a generational family history of restaurant ownership, Spizzirri’s younger brother Tito Jr., saw the value in restaurant ownership and left a career in accounting to take over Spizzico. After Tito died in 2015 his wife, Linda, took over the restaurant and expanded it to include Senor Jefe, the Mexican restaurant around the corner that shares a kitchen with Spizzico. With Linda’s blessing and support, Spizzirri took over ownership of

the Restaurant Row mainstay in May 2021. “We wanted to keep the restaurant in the family, but this is my first time owning a restaurant and honestly I expected it to be easier than it is,” said Spizzirri. “It is more difficult work than I expected it to be, but fortunately it is working with the help of family.” Honoring the family history of restaurant ownership and keeping Tito’s legacy alive are at the forefront of every decision Spizzirri makes. His daughter, Rochelle, has shown interest in the business and the team, including several extended family members, continues to serve the Italian fare based on his mother’s signature home-style recipes. Baked clams with breadcrumbs and crispy calamari set the stage for an array of entrees including pastas, sandwiches and pizza. Nothing is premade at Spizzico — even the pizza dough is freshly made every morning. Housemade sauces keep customers coming back for that signature Spizzico flavor. Spizzico is now serving “pizza rolls” inspired by a recipe created by Spizzirri’s uncle. Similar

WANT A TACO WITH THAT PIZZA? Chicken tacos and any other Senor Jefe menu item can be ordered with Spizzico’s Italian fare.

The pizza dough is made daily at Spizzico and all ingredients are sourced for quality.

ALL IN THE FAMILY: Rochelle and Rocco Spizzirri show off a signature Spizzico pizza. Rochelle is learning the family business from top to bottom. to a calzone, the pizza roll features a gently folded soft crust encapsulating an array of popular pizza toppings. “We are definitely known for our pizza,” said Spizzirri proudly. “But people are always surprised by our ribs. People don’t expect them to be as good as they are, but we learned our recipe from a real southern chef.” Ribs are not the only Spizzico surprise -- Senor Jefe came about because Spizzirri and his brothers wanted customers to be able to satisfy dual cravings in one location. “We wanted people to be able to get a pizza and a burrito at the same time,” laughed Spizzirri. “And thanks to that idea we have been combining Italian and Mexican favorites on one ticket.” Graciela Rodriguez and Valente Gracia have worked in the Spizzico kitchens for 16 years and have been churning out Mexican favorites like hand-made pork tamales, fajitas and flautas since Senor Jefe opened nearly six years ago. The model makes it simple to have tacos with your next pizza. Spizzirri is especially pleased that catering gigs and volume sales have been steadily growing for the food-focused business.

Spizzico and Senor Jefe have the capacity to handle everything from intimate dinner parties to events catering to thousands of guests at local schools, hospitals and festivals. No matter if people are looking for a catered event for hundreds, boxed lunched for students, a bounty of burritos or a single bowl of pasta, Spizzirri is eager to treat every customer like family and wants people to know Spizzico endures on North Avenue because of their supportive community and loyal customers. “The support we get from the Village of Elmwood Park is just outstanding,” said Spizzirri. “Basically, our local government will bend over backwards to help restaurants succeed. That means everything to us.” That community support is priceless to Spizzirri and his family as they persevere in hopes of leaving the Spizzico legacy, sauce and all, for the next generation.

All photos Melissa Elsmo

The Landmark, September 8, 2021

Breadsticks and a Caesar salad from Spizzico Pizza and Pasta in Elmwood Park

Garlic breadcrumbs and a squeeze of lemon are essential additions to Spizzico’s baked clams.

Graciela Rodriguez (left) and Valente Gracia flank Rocco Spizzirri in the kitchen at Spizzico/Senor Jefe. The cooks bring 16 years of experience to the Elmwood Park restaurant.

Discover more culinary delights at RBLandmark.com

The Landmark, September 8, 2021

MURPHY

Childhood dream from page 1 confidence, starting the game and pitching four shutout, hitless innings while striking out six and walking three in Team USA’s 16-1 win over Team Canada, their fourth straight win in the series. Murphy made Team USA after a weeklong tryout in Sarasota, Florida, fulfilling a dream he has had since he was 13 years old. In game one of the Canada series, Murphy showed his prowess at the plate, entering midway as the designated hitter and swatting a bases-clearing triple in the eighth inning. “It’s a dream and a honor to be able to put this USA jersey on,” Murphy told the Landmark in a telephone interview. “I’m getting choked up just thinking about it.” Murphy, a Riverside resident, has always loved baseball. “Ball,” along with “ma” and “da,” was one of the very first words he ever uttered. He started playing some sort of baseball at about 4 when his father signed him up for a class at the Riverside Recreation Department called Smart Start Baseball. He moved on to T-ball and then played on Little League teams in Riverside and on the Riverside Rockets travel team that were both coached by his dad, Mike Murphy, starting when he was 7. At age 13 he started playing and training with Rake City, a Countrysidebased elite baseball training program. His dedication, work habits, and passion for baseball set him apart, said Rake City owner and coach Pete Flores. “He’s obsessed about being the greatest that Owen Murphy can be and he’s does not stop,” Flores said. “There’s no off button with that kid.” Murphy made the 26-player Team USA team as a utility player and is the only player from Illinois on the team. In addition to pitching, he can play third base, second base and shortstop. Although he is most known for his pitching and throws a fastball that has reached 94 mph Murphy loves to hit and play the field. In fact, hitting is his favorite thing to do. “I love the feeling of hitting the ball and squaring it up on the bat,” Murphy said. “That’s how I fell in love with this game, and that’s what I hope to be able to continue to do.” His coaches rave about his work ethic and competitiveness. That’s one reason that Team USA 18U manager Jason Maxwell picked Murphy to start the only game in the series with Canada that will be played in a major league stadium. “I told our pitching coach, I want Owen Murphy throwing at Tropicana Field,” Maxwell said. “I thought that kid would be lights out on that stage. I just love the way he competes.” Murphy has always been very competitive at everything, even playing board games with his family.

COURTESY OF USA BASEBALL

Team USA 18U manager Jason Maxwell said he picked Murphy to start the only game against Canada played in a major league stadium. “I thought that kid would be lights out on that stage,” Maxwell said. “Our family game nights used to consist of me being not too happy when I didn’t win,” Murphy said. “If my brother won or my dad won, I was not happy. If my mom won, I was not happy. The only times I went to bed happy was if I won.” Backyard whiffle ball games with his dad were also tough, no-quarter-given games. His dad would not ease off and let him win. “All I did was want to play sports in the backyard with my dad,” Murphy said. Being part of Team USA has been quite an experience, and his coaches are all former major league players. Maxwell, who now coaches at a high school in Nashville, was a September callup for the Chicago Cubs in 1998 whose first major league hit was a pinch hit home run at Wrigley Field. The pitching coach is former major leaguer Brad Penny, who won 121 games in a 14year major league career. His hitting coach is Michael Cuddyer, who had a career batting average of .277 in his 15-year career and led the National League in hitting in 2013, batting .331 as a member of the Colorado Rockies. His fielding coach is former Pittsburgh Pirates shortstop Jack Wilson. “It’s just great, being able to go into the cages and start swinging and getting tips from guys who have hit .300 in the show, who have made less than 10 errors in an entire season, and who threw nasty splitters on the mound,” Murphy said. “I mean, it’s just amazing to be able to talk to them and feed off their knowledge and ask a ton of

questions.” Tryouts for Team USA started in Sarasota Aug. 26 with 44 players and Murphy found out he made the 26-man roster on Aug. 31. Before the tryouts, Murphy had made a name for himself at the Prospect Development Pipeline camp cosponsored by Major League Baseball and Team USA last month in North Carolina. He led all pitchers there with 10 strikeouts in four innings, including striking out the side in both innings he pitched in the bronze medal game. At the plate went 4 for 9 and hit a home run. The team has two practices a day, and Murphy is trying to keep up with his school work during a daily mandatory study hall but admits that his focus is on baseball. His says that his teachers at RBHS have been understanding. “They’re very happy for me, so they’re very forgiving when it comes to all this kind of stuff,” Murphy said. “I keep in touch with them through email, keep them all updated, and hopefully get just a little bit of work done so I’m not terribly behind when I come back to school.” The only downside of the experience is that Murphy, who is also a standout football player, is missing the start of the RBHS football season. As a freshman Murphy was thrust into the starter’s job at quarterback, something very rare on the high school level. He was a standout wide receiver as a sophomore and started all five games at quarterback last

spring in last year’s abbreviated spring season while also starring for the RBHS baseball team and playing travel baseball. Murphy spent the summer traveling to high-profile baseball showcase events across the country from San Diego to North Carolina. He is keeping close tabs on his football teammates and their games from Florida. He is scheduled to play in two more showcase baseball events this fall so he is not sure he will play football once he returns from Florida on Sept. 10. Next summer Murphy, who has committed to play baseball at the University of Notre Dame, might have a big decision to make, because he’s likely to be selected in the Major League Baseball amateur draft next June. But he’s not thinking about that too much right now, focusing instead on the thrill and honor of playing the game he loves for his country. “I’ll have a clearer picture by the end of this fall of what I think I want to do, and then going into the spring is when the decision is made,” Murphy said. Whatever he ultimately decides, he will be doing what he loves, playing baseball. “Nothing compares to putting on the jersey and getting out on the field and feeling the dirt under my cleats and being able to square up a ball and throw a ball over the plate,” Murphy said. “There’s nothing that matches it, and I just love everything that comes with the game.”

The Landmark, September 8, 2021

TAX HIKE

Burden shifted from page 1 treasurer’s office, and 570 residential properties saw increases of between $2,500 and $5,000. Some 70.5 percent of all residential properties in Riverside Township saw a tax increase year over year, according to the treasurer’s office, with about 29 percent seeing a decrease and less than 1 percent seeing no change at all. “I’ve never seen this big of an increase for residential properties in such a wide range,” said Riverside Township Assessor Fran Sitkiewicz. “The typical property tax bill in Riverside was at least a $2,000 increase. Most of the homes in Riverside and our part of North Riverside are under 2,200 square feet, and they got hit the hardest.” Because Riverside Township is rather small and because most of the township’s commercial property base is located in North Riverside – properties which help fund Riverside schools – data also released last month by the Cook County Assessor’s Office may help explain why Riverside and North Riverside homeowners saw such big increases. According to the Cook County Assessor’s new property tax dashboard (cookcountyassessor.com/township-av-2020), the property tax burden in 2020 shifted in Riverside Township, negatively impacting residential properties due to reductions in commercial property assessments on a handful That was not the case when it came to commercial propof the largest commercial properties in the township. erty valuation. For 2020, the Cook County Assessor valued “I’m really shocked by just how much five or six proper- all commercial properties at $66.2 million, up from the 2019 ties [having their assessments dramatically reduced] really valuation of $49.5 million, which would have amounted to a impacted residential homeowners,” Sitkiewicz said. 33.7 percent increase in total assessed value. While the Cook County Treasurer’s Office released a After the Board of Review process, the value of all comreport in August stating that 2020 property increases hit mercial properties in North Riverside was set at $43.8 milcommercial property owners the hardest, that wasn’t the lion. That was not only $23 million less than the assessor’s case everywhere, as the Cook County Assessor’s dashboard valuation, but an almost $6 million reduction from the 2019 shows. total assessed value of commercial properties. In tax year 2019 in Riverside Township, comHad the assessor’s figures been used, commermercial properties represented 24 percent of tocial properties would have represented 55 pertal assessed valuation, while residential propercent of total assessed value in North Riverside. ties accounted for 76 percent. For tax year 2020, After the Board of Review’s process, the situathe Cook County Assessor attempted to take tion completely flipped, with residential propsome of that burden off of residential property erties representing 55 percent of total assessed owners. value. After the assessor made its valuations, comWhat’s more, in 2019 residential properties in mercial properties would have represented 28 North Riverside represented 51 percent of total percent of total assessed value in Riverside assessed value, meaning 4-percent more of the Township, with residential properties representtax burden shifted onto residential property ing 72 percent. owners in 2020. But during the property tax appeals process, Who benefited the most? Some of the biggest the Cook County Board of Review reduced the commercial property owners in North Riverside. FRAN SITKIEWICZ combined assessed value of commercial properNorth Riverside Park Mall, which is owned by ties in Riverside Township to 21 percent of the Riverside Township assessor The Feil Organization, saw its property tax bill total, a 7-percent reduction from the Cook Counfall by nearly 40 percent, from nearly $4.8 million ty Assessor’s valuation and a 3-percent decrease in 2019 to about $2.9 million in 2020. from 2019 total assessed value. While the Cook County Assessor set the propThat, in turn, shifted the property tax burden erty’s assessed value at about $19.3 million in onto those owning residential properties, which 2020, the Board of Review reduced that valuation now represent 79 percent of total assessed value by 51 percent to about $9.4 million. in Riverside Township, a 3-percent increase compared to The mall ownership had been under threat of foreclosure 2019. prior to a new agreement with its lender this spring, and Municipal level data obtained by the Landmark from the property appraisals recently had dropped the mall’s market Cook County Assessor shows how that shift impacted North value dramatically, which likely explains the Board of ReRiverside residential property owners in particular. view’s decision. As recently as 2017, according to informaIn 2020, the Cook County Assessor called for increasing tion on the Cook County Assessor’s website, North Riverthe total assessed values of residential properties to about side Park Mall had an assessed value of around $16 million. $53.5 million from 2019’s valuation of $50.6 million, a roughJ.C. Penney, which is owned separately from the mall, saw ly 5.8 percent increase. its property tax bill fall by nearly 15 percent from 2019 to After the Cook County Board of Review’s appeals process, 2020, while the North Riverside Plaza, the shopping center total assessed value of residential properties in North Rivat Harlem Avenue and Cermak Road, saw its property tax erside was set at $53 million, pretty much in line with the bill decline by 11 percent – a figure amounting to $239,000 assessor’s valuation. -- year over year.

“I’ve never seen this big of an increase for residential properties in such a wide range.”

In both cases, the Board of Review dramatically reduced the Cook County Assessor’s 2020 valuation upon appeal. In the case of J.C. Penney, the Board of Review reduced the assessor’s valuation value by 44 percent, and reduced the assessor’s valuation of the North Riverside Plaza by 41 percent. Because most of Brookfield is part of two very large townships with far-flung commercial districts – most of them not in Brookfield – it’s a bit more difficult to easily identify individual properties that saw large increases or decreases in assessed valuation in 2020. Many Brookfield homeowners lately would have seen tax increases due to recently passed referendums to fund school operations in Brookfield-LaGrange Park District 95 and LaGrange-Brookfield School District 102. But, according to the Cook County Assessor’s Office, the actual share of total assessed value between residential and commercial properties from 2019 to 2020 in Brookfield did not change. Residential properties represent 90 percent of Brookfield’s total assessed value, according to the assessor’s office, while commercial properties represent 10 percent. That split was determined after the Cook County Board of Review adjusted assessed values based on property tax appeals. The Cook County Assessor had determined the assessed value of commercial properties in Brookfield for tax year 2020 at about $21.4 million, which would have amounted to a 32.4 percent increase in assessed value. That would have increased the overall tax burden on commercial properties by 2 percent, while reducing that burden by the same amount on residential properties. But in handling appeals, the Cook County Board of Review ratcheted commercial property valuation down to $17.6 million, an increase of just under 9 percent. Meanwhile, the assessed value of residential properties after the Cook County Board of Review’s appeals process rose from about $146.6 million to $153.4 million, an overall increase of 4.6 percent. Sitkiewicz advised that homeowners make a habit of appealing their property assessments, particularly in reassessment years like 2020, during which all three villages were reassessed. “And with the first installment next year coming next March, people are going to get hit twice,” Sitkiewicz said. “People should always be appealing to the Board of Review.”

The Landmark, September 8, 2021

Opinion KOSEY CORNER

THE LANDMARK VIEW

Not sexy, but solid

dmit it, when you heard that a developer was eyeing the former Bank of America property at 3300 Harlem Ave. in Riverside to construct a new Sherwin Williams paint store – oh, if haven’t heard yet, you can read all about it on page 3 – you said to yourself, “Really? A paint store?” That was pretty much the same response the village of Brookfield got back in 2015 when officials there announced that they were cutting a deal with this same developer to bring a Sherwin Williams store to the long vacant corner at Ogden and Eberly avenues. No, it’s not sexy. But the paint store in Brookfield turned a property that had been derelict and non-tax producing for more than a decade – the village had picked it up from the county in 2004 – into a solid property tax and sales tax generator. Bank of America vacated the Riverside property two years ago, paving the way for redeveloping two key gateway properties, the bank itself and the parking lot across the street. We’re not sure exactly what the perfect use for those properties might be, but a bank branch and an almost always empty parking lot certainly wasn’t it, and no one seemed to mind too much about the bank’s longtime presence at that corner. In terms of commercial potential for the village, it would certainly seem that a Sherwin Williams store is a sure bet from a sales tax standpoint. A Sherwin Williams store has operated across the tracks on the Berwyn side of Harlem Avenue for decades, so moving it a stone’s throw away in Riverside isn’t likely to hurt business. Naturally, we question the necessity for the village to hand out such generous financial incentives to bring the paint store to the corner. The developer told trustees that the $220,000 being gifted over 10 years is critical to “fill a gap” in the financing due to the increased costs of construction in the wake of the pandemic. The developer knows his numbers best, of course, but he has routinely asked for such incentives in developing a number of stores for Sherwin Williams over the years, including ones completed with pre-pandemic construction pricing. In Brookfield, the developer essentially got the property for nothing and two years later turned around and sold the property, clearing a profit of about a half million dollars. Good for him, we suppose. We’d be less inclined to look so favorably on the incentives if not for one key element of this deal: the village is getting something as valuable as a new development. The village is getting the old bank parking lot as part of the deal, which gives them control over how to best develop it in line with the anticipated amended commercial district zoning code, which is under way. It can be used for paid commuter parking, for now, or something else down the line. Either way, getting the opportunity to guide development of key gateway properties is a rare thing. For us, that’s the best part of the deal.

Marking 20 years, 9/11 tribute planned in Riverside

here are events you will never forget where you were when you heard the news. One of those events took place on the morning of Sept. 11, 2001. Most of us were just starting our day. As I entered Mater Christi School to begin a day of teaching, I heard the news of a plane hitting the World Trade Center. The school secretary and I thought it was an accident until the second plane hit its mark. After that we spent the day watching in disbelief at what had happened. The school children had questions, and we had no answers. With their books set aside, the students had become witnesses to history. Hatred had taken place in the cruelest form, affecting everyone. Each year 9/11 is remembered for the lives that were lost, those who survived it and those who gave their help. This year on Saturday, Sept. 11 we as a nation will honor those people. Because it is the 20th anniversary of 9/11, Riverside American Legion Post 488 and the Riverside Township Lions Club, in conjunction with

Riverside Township, the U.S. Coast Guard and the Baker Group, will host a tribute starting at 1:30 p.m. honoring first responders. First, Matthew Scharpf and Lou Leone will entertain during Music by the River on the west lawn of the Riverside Library, 1 Burling Road, from 1:45 to 3:45. Following the music will be a patriotic tribute by volunteer kayakers from the Riverside Sharks who will float under the Swinging Bridge where a large American flag will be hung. Musicians from Anderson School of Music will accompany the kayakers. So on Sept. 11, we encourage families, friends and neighbors to attend to pay tribute to those who lost their lives that day, for those who have never recovered and to all first responders who seem to be called upon more each day. Many members of the police and fire departments will be on hand, and this will be a chance to thank them for all they do. Many are called to serve and many answer the call and to you we say thank you.

JOANNE KOSEY

OBITUARIES

Terry Jamiolkowski, 90 Retired tool and die maker Terry Jamiolkowski, 90, of Brookfield, died Sept. 1, 2021 at the Amita Health Hospice Residence in Elk Grove Village. Mr. Jamiolkowski was born Aug. 29, 1931 in Perronville, Michigan to the late Chester and late Agnes (nee Vaver) Jamiolkowski. He served in the U.S. Marine Corps during the Korean War and worked as a tool and die maker at TERRY JAMIOLKOWSKI American Flange before retiring. He was the husband of Mary (nee Zampa); the father of Gary (Holly Scottow) Jamiolkowski, Carol (Bill) Edson, Thomas Jamiolkowski, Donna (Mike) Wheeler and Ronald (Amy Bernstein) Jamiolkowski; the grandfather of Ian and Caroline Wheeler; the brother of Edward (Alice) Jamiolkowski, the late Raymond (Marie) Jamiolkowski, late Dorothy (late James) Hendricks, late Florence York and the late Richard (Janice) Jamiolkowski; and the uncle of many beloved nieces and nephews.

Private Inurnment with military honors is at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery, Elwood. Johnson-Nosek Funeral Home, Brookfield, handled arrangements. Online condolences may be offered at JohnsonNosek. com.

Arlene P. Sacha, 76 Retired life insurance saleswoman Arlene P. Sacha (nee Brown), 76, of Lyons, died Aug. 27, 2021. Ms. Sacha Arlene was born April 21, 1945 in Chicago to the late Joseph and the late Charlotte (nee Poremba) Brown. She worked in sales for a life insurance company before retiring. She was the wife of the late Joseph Sacha; the sister of Elayne (late Michael) DeAno and the ARLENE P. SACHA late Joanne (late Gene) Davis; and an aunt to many. Private inurnment at Resurrection Cemetery, Justice. Johnson-Nosek Funeral Home, Brookfield, handled

The Landmark, September 8, 2021

Hollywood School playground completion delayed until at least October Windows for new multipurpose room held up until mid-November

By BOB SKOLNIK Contributing Reporter

No one is quite sure when the new playground equipment at Hollywood School in Brookfield will be installed. The equipment had been expected to arrive this week, but now the district has been told by its supplier that the equipment won’t be shipped for at least three more weeks. “It could be later, which is not a very reassuring statement,” said Ramesh Nair, who is overseeing the construction of a multipurpose room and the new playground at Hollywood School. Once the playground equipment finally arrives it will take around two weeks to install, pushing completion of the playground into October at the earliest.

Supply chain constraints and bottlenecks caused by the pandemic have slowed the Hollywood School project considerably. Some rooftop air conditioning units that were expected in July just arrived. The windows for the multipurpose room are now not expected to arrive until midNovember, but Nair said temporary windows, possibly made of plywood, would be installed sometime in the next month. Once that is done the district plans to apply for a temporary occupancy permit. “The plan is to get a temporary occupancy permit for the addition by early October,” Nair told the Riverside Elementary School District 96 Board of Education at its Committee of the Whole meeting on Sept. 1. “That does not mean the project is finished.”

OBITUARIES arrangements. Online condolences may be offered at JohnsonNosek.com.

Robert W. Sprunger, 93 Longtime Riverside resident Robert “Bob” Sprunger, 93, died July 21, 2021. Mr. Sprunger was a longtime resident of Riverside, with his family moving to the village in March 1964. He loved gardening and riding his bike around Riverside until he was 89. He was proud of his home, yard and town. Mr. Sprunger was born in Decatur on Sept. 14, 1927. He attended Decatur High School and University of Illinois, where he graduated in 1949 with a B.S. in electrical engineering. He was employed at the Brush Development Company in Cleveland as an acoustical technician testing microphones for early

model hearing aids before being drafted into the Armed Forces in 1951. During the Korean War he spent time at the Signal Corps laboratory in Monmouth, New Jersey. After being discharged in 1953 he began his career at Motorola Inc. Mr. Sprunger is survived by his beloved wife of 60 years (July 1, 1961), Carol (nee Jelinek); his daughter, Susan (William) Strohl; his son, Robert Jr.; his grandsons, Robert Sprunger III, William Strohl III, David Strohl, Asa Sprunger (fiancé Emily Zugay) and Michael Strohl; and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Asa and Mabel Sprunger; his brother, James; and his sister, Madeline. Mr. Sprunger donated his body to the Anatomical Gift Association of Illinois. A private service will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Riverside Presbyterian Church, The Salvation Army or a charity of your choice.

To run an obituary Please contact Bob Uphues by e-mail: buphues@rblandmark.com, or fax: 708/524-9066 before Monday at noon. Please include a photo if possible.

Paving was completed around the new multipurpose room addition on Sept. 2 and the shell of the addition is complete. The rest of Hollywood School, 3423 Hollywood Ave., has been in full and normal use since school began last month. Recess has been affected because there is no playground, but the Hollywood Community Association has been allowing the school to use the lawn in front of the Hollywood House, which is next door to the school, for recess. The new playground is being built on land owned by the HCA and leased to the school district. “The HCA has been a great neighbor,” said Hollywood School Principal Kim Hefner. “They’ve agreed to let us use the east side, which is not part of the lease agree-

ment, as well as what is available on the west and south side, so kids are playing there. We’re bringing out a variety of different equipment every few days so they have a variety of different toys and materials to play with.” The delay in completing the multipurpose room is mostly affecting the art and music teachers. The room also will be used as a lunch room and a large meeting space. Music teacher Bill Howes and art teacher Ellie Valaisa are anxiously waiting to use the new multipurpose room. Howes had all of his equipment packed and ready to move in, but for now he is teaching his classes in the school’s gym. “We’re chomping at the bit to get in there,” Hefner said.

HELP WANTED POLICE OFFICER – LATERAL TRANSFER The Board of Fire and Police Commissioners of the Village of Riverside, Illinois, is accepting Lateral Transfer applications for the position of Police Officer with the Village of Riverside Police Department.

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.

Sports

The Landmark, September 8, 2021

@RBLandmark

Bulldogs can’t overcome mistakes, fall to Wauconda Matt Novak injured on first play of the second half By BOB SKOLNIK Contributing Reporter

It is a truism in sports that you can’t win when you don’t score. That was the case Sept. 3 when the Riverside-Brookfield High School football team was shut out at home by visiting Wauconda 20-0. The loss wasn’t the only painful part of the evening. Matt Novak, whose 49-yard field goal with time expiring defeated Morton in the first game of the season, was injured on the first play of the second half. Trailing 7-0 at the half RBHS coach Brendan Curtin tried to spark his stagnant offense by putting the 180-pound Novak at quarterback in the wildcat formation. Novak took the snap and went up the middle for a three-yard gain but was swarmed by Wauconda tacklers and hurt his left leg. After lying on the field for more than a minute, Novak got up and walked off under his own power. But he watched the rest of the second half from the sideline out of uniform. The status of his injury was not known immediately after the game. “Obviously he’s a dynamic athlete,” said RBHS head coach Brendan Curtin said. “He’s a big part of what we’re doing. We’ll see, just hope for the best.” RBHS (1-1) moved the ball at times but also made plenty of mistakes racking up 10 penalties, mostly on offense, for 100 yards.

ALEX ROGALS/ Staff Photographer

Matt Novak (above), an offensive spark plug for the Bulldogs, went down injured in the second half against Wauconda. His status for this week’s game was not known prior to press time. “We had a couple explosive plays but just weren’t able to finish drives and we shot ourselves in the foot many times with penalties, dropped passes, “Curtin said. “You try to limit those things, but, for whatever reasons, you know, they just seemed to multiply as the game went on.” The Bulldogs fell behind right away as Wauconda (2-0) scored on the opening drive

of the game when quarterback Vince Bennett hit running back Colin Husko for a completion and Husko broke a tackle and raced into the end zone for a 44-yard touchdown. But the Bulldogs had a couple of chances to score. On their very first play from scrimmage wide receiver Brady Vaia ran a streak pattern and had his defender beat badly but quarterback T.J. Sloan overthrew him. On the Bulldogs second drive Sloan hit Vaia for a 38-yard completion to move the Bulldogs to the Wauconda 20. A seven-yard completion to Matt Novak on fourth and four got the Bulldogs to the 7-yard line. Two runs by Cordell Rainey Jr. moved the Bulldogs to the three, but a costly delay of game moved the Bulldogs back. On third down, Sloan rolled left and the southpaw threw a little across his body and Husko intercepted the pass in the end zone to snuff out the drive. Husko also picked off Sloan in the fourth quarter. Sloan completed 14 of 34 passes on the night for 176 yards and two interceptions. “He did a good job of keeping his eyes downfield when he was moving in the pocket, his pocket presence was solid at times,” Curtin said. “It’s his second start so there’s still a learning curve there, but it’s going fast and he’s a senior so we’ll expect him to bounce back.” After Wauconda made it 20-0 with 4:31 left in the game on a nine-yard run by Collin Cheshier, Ryan Novak ran the ensuing kickoff back 71 yards. Attempting to

avoid the shutout, the Bulldogs, aided by a roughing the passer and unsportsmanlike conduct penalty on the same play, moved to the Wauconda 7-yard line. On fourth and goal Sloan threw a swing pass to Ryan Novak, who broke a tackle and raced into the end zone but the touchdown was nullified by a holding call. “We are a more disciplined team than what we showed,” Curtin said. “We’ll clean it up.” As in their first game, the Bulldogs had trouble moving the ball on the ground, gaining only 39 yards rushing. “We’re going to have to revisit how we’re going to establish the run game in terms of personnel to get it done up front,” Curtin said. Bennett, a speedy but small quarterback at 5-8 and 165 pounds, ran for 85 yards on 22 carries to lead the Wauconda offense. The Bulldogs open conference play next week at Chicago Christian (1-1).

LTHS 56, Addison Trail 0 The Lyons Township High School football team bounced back from a tough 30-23 opening week loss to New Trier by walloping Addison Trail 56-0 on Sept. 3 in a West Suburban Conference crossover game at Bennett Field in Western Springs. The Lions (1-1) struck quickly as Stephen Borojevic raced 62 yards for a touchdown just 42 seconds into the game. The Lions led 28-0 after the end of the first quarter and led 49-0 at the half.

Stanovich looks for final flourish on the court

4-year varsity player part of Bulldogs’ No. 1 doubles pair By BILL STONE Contributing Reporter

Riverside-Brookfield High School senior Adriana Stanovich means business when she takes the tennis court. The fourth-year varsity player, second-year captain and one of four veterans in the Bulldogs’ lineup is hoping for an additional payoff from her final competitive season. “My goal is I want to have a lot of fun,” Stanovich said. “The past three years I’ve worked really hard to win as many matches and as many games. I want to win but also have a lot of fun and enjoy playing with my teammates.” Senior co-captain Remy Hilpp and juniors Lara Huns and Olivia Dvorak also return for RBHS, which is 1-1 under second-year head coach Sam Weiss. Stanovich and Dvorak are playing No. 1 doubles with Huns and Hilpp at No. 1 and 2 singles. Seniors Paige Beggs

and McKenna Bryant at No. 3 doubles are undefeated. “My favorite thing [about tennis] is the strategy. It’s always changing,” Stanovich said. “You’re never going to have the same exact play over again. You always have to be thinking.” Stanovich played No. 2 singles in 2020 and No. 1 doubles with Huns as a sophomore. Her 2019 freshman season was an important building block by playing No. 4 doubles with numerous partners, including several seniors. “They were definitely very supportive and gave me a really strong sense of how a team should treat each other,” Stanovich said. “I feel like the program has developed me as more of a character [builder]. My skills have dramatically increased, but I feel like I’ve developed because of a lot of upperclassmen and getting more involved with the school.” Stanovich’s time otherwise mostly is spent with work and her extended family. Besides her brother, there are eight nearby cousins on her mother’s side alone. Stanovich’s parents own a Firehouse Subs franchise where she has worked on and off since sixth grade. Her mother also is an area representative.

This summer, Stanovich worked nearly full-time behind the counter. “We’re solely based on supporting first responders,” said Stanovich, who plans to first attend Triton College and become a franchise lawyer. “Being with the business for so long, it’s developed my character and how I can communicate with people and how we can provide for the community.” In tennis, Stanovich said she has been proud to earn a firstor second-place medal at every tournament she’s played varsity or JV entering this season. Her father played for Stanovich’s former head coach, Bob Hegner, when attending Morton West. Last season, Weiss and longtime assistant Mike Heine gave her the rare honor of a non-senior captain. “She is a leader that the other girls look up to and respect,” Weiss responded. “If [teammates] need encouragement, I’m able to give them the knowledge I’ve been able to gain from my younger years,” Stanovich said. “Freshman year, I worked really, really hard to prove I should be on [varsity]. I think it really helped me figure out the dedication and to really strive to get the things I wanted to get done.”

The Landmark, September 8, 2021

Growing Community Media

HOURS: 9:00 A.M.– 5:00 P.M. MON–FRI Deadline is Monday at 5:00 p.m.

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

HELP WANTED River Forest Public Schools District 90

District 90 is seeking qualified and experienced applicants for the following positions:

• English Language Learner Teacher (Lincoln Elementary School) • Physical Education Part-time Teacher (Lincoln Elementary School) For detailed qualifications requirements and job duties, please visit our website at www.district90.org/about/employment for our complete list of employment opportunities. General Qualifications: Valid Illinois Professional Education License with endorsement in field of study, a Master’s Degree is preferred and successful teaching experience with students in a classroom setting is preferred. General Duties: Provide excellence in education by developing and implementing activities that encourage students to be life-long learners. Possesses knowledge of District policies and regulations relating to areas of responsibilities. Create an environment that is conducive to learning and appropriate to the developmental maturity and interests of each student. Application: Apply online at www.district90.org. Application Procedure: Interested candidates should complete the online application available at district90.org. Please do not send hard copies of supporting documentation, i.e. cover letters, resumes, licensure, etc. to River Forest Schools District 90; instead, upload these materials onto the online job application system for proper processing.

PART TIME DRIVER ASAP

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 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.

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. Thank you

URBAN FORESTRY

The Village of Oak Park is seeking qualiﬁed candidates for the position of Urban Forestry Technician I in the Public Works Department. This position will perform routine tasks including basic tree and shrub pruning and removal, setting up and maintaining a safe work zone and basic forestry ground work including bucking logs and chipping brush. 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 will be September 14, 2021.



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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

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. Applications accepted until position is filled. EOE.

Starting a New Business? Publish Your Assumed Name Legal Notice in • Austin Weekly News • Wednesday Journal • Forest Park Review • Riverside/Brookfield Landmark

Call the Experts Before You Place Your Legal Ad! Call Mary Ellen for details: 773/626-6332

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

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The Landmark, September 8, 2021

CLASSIFIED

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

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OAK PARK & FOREST PARK

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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

PLUMBING

Supreme Plumbing & Sewer Services Installation of kitchens, bathrooms, sinks, showers Sewer Systems

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

Piping & re-piping Clogged drains Water heaters

100% Satisfaction Guaranteed

Quality workmanship & service 20+ years’ experience • Locally owned & operated

Free Estimates!

CITY RENTALS

708-955-7844

1850 S. 61st St #106 Cicero, IL 60632

johnlavin530@gmail.com License #PR-1234

708-447-1762

PAINTING & DECORATING

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

OFFICE /RETAIL FOR RENT OFFICE SPACE FOR RENT THERAPY OFFICE OAK PARK

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

CLASSIC PAINTING

Fast & Neat Painting/Taping/Plaster Repair Low Cost

708.749.0011

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

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

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

The Landmark, September 8, 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 PUBLIC NOTICES

PUBLIC NOTICES

INVITATION FOR BID

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING RIVERSIDE SCHOOL DISTRICT NO. 96

PUBLIC NOTICE OF COURT DATE FOR REQUEST FOR NAME CHANGE

Sealed proposals will be received by the Oak Park Housing Authority at 21 South Blvd., Oak Park, Il, 60302 until 2:00 p. m. local time on Wednesday, September 29, 2021 at which time they will be opened and read. The sealed bids will be received for the following project: Application of water repellent, rust inhibitor and sealant patching on exterior surfaces of precast concrete walls of Mills Park Tower. Drawings and Project Manual are available at no cost in PDF electronic format from Heitzman Architects, 213 South Euclid Ave., Oak Park, IL 60302, telephone (708) 267-1352, 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 Wednesday, September 22, 2021 at 9:00 a.m. on the first floor of Mills Park Tower, 1025 Pleasant Place, Oak Park, IL 60302. Bidders having questions or needing further information may call Ken Southward at (708) 386-9322, ext. 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 Housing Authority. 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 Housing Authority 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 Housing Authority, 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 8, 2021.

Notice is hereby given by the Board of Education of Riverside School District No. 96, Cook County, Illinois, that a public hearing shall be conducted in accordance with Section 17-2A of the Illinois School Code, 105 ILCS 5/17-2A, on September 15, 2021, beginning at 7 p.m., at 86 Southcote Road, Riverside, Illinois, 60546, to consider authorization of a permanent interfund transfer in the amount of $2,899,857 from the School District’s Transportation Fund to its Operations and Maintenance Fund for the purpose of meeting the ordinary and necessary disbursements for operations and maintenance purposes. Any person seeking information regarding the public hearing concerning said request may contact the District’s Director of Finance and Operations at (708) 447-5007. Secretary, Board of Education Riverside School District No. 96, Cook County, Illinois Dated: September 8, 2021 Published in RB Landmark September 8, 2021

PUBLIC NOTICE OF COURT DATE FOR REQUEST FOR NAME CHANGE STATE OF ILLINOIS, CIRCUIT COURT COOK COUNTY. Request of SANDRA ANNE CASTILLO-MEZA Case Number. 2021CONC001308 There will be a court date on my Request to change my name from: SANDRA ANNE CASTILLO-MEZA to the new name of: SANDRA MEZA The court date will be held: On November 19, 2021 at 10:30am at VIA ZOOM- Meeting ID: 958 9492 1843/Password: 226532 Cook in Courtroom # 1707 Published in Wednesday Journal September 8, 15, 22, 2021

PUBLIC NOTICES

EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY

STATE OF ILLINOIS, CIRCUIT COURT COOK COUNTY. Request of VICTOR CRISTIAN ENCISO Case Number. 2021CONC001309 There will be a court date on my Request to change my name from: VICTOR CRISTIAN ENCISO to the new name of: VICTOR CRISTIAN CASTILLO-MEZA The court date will be held: On December 6, 2021 at 9:00am at VIA ZOOM- Meeting ID: 965 2561 6475/Password: 553663 Cook in Courtroom # 1704 Published in Wednesday Journal September 8, 15, 22, 2021

PUBLIC NOTICE STATE OF ILLINOIS VILLAGE OF BROOKFIELD Notice of Public Hearing Village of Brookfield Planning and Zoning Commission September 23, 2021, at 7:00 PM NOTICE is hereby given that a public hearing will be held by the Planning and Zoning Commission of the Village of Brookfield on Thursday, September 23, 2021, at 7:00 PM in the Edward Barcal Hall located at 8820 Brookfield Avenue, Brookfield, Illinois to consider a special use permit request for a food pantry at the address 9030 Brookfield Avenue.

LEGAL NOTICE The Village of Oak Park will receive sealed bids at the Public Works Service Center, 201 South Boulevard, Oak Park, Illinois 60302, until 4:00 p.m. on Wednesday, September 22nd, 2021 for the following BID 21-137 VILLAGE OF OAK PARK BLUESTONE-GRANITE CROSSWALK REPAIR PROJECT REQUEST FOR BIDS Bid forms may be obtained from the Public Works Customer Service Center by calling 708-358-5700 or by stopping by the office located at 201 South Boulevard, Oak Park, Illinois between the hours of 7:30 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. Information is also available from the Streets Superintendent, Scott Brinkman, sbrinkman@oak-park.us or on the Village’s website http://www.oak-park.us/your-government/finance-department. The Village of Oak Park reserves the right to issue proposal documents and specifications only to those vendors deemed qualified. No proposal documents will be issued after 4:00 p.m. on the working day preceding the date of proposal opening. For more information call the Public Works Service Center at 708.358.5700. THE VILLAGE OF OAK PARK

Published in Wednesday Journal September 8, 2021

The public is invited to attend the public hearing and present oral and/ or written comments. Please check the following webpage one week before the meeting for more information: https://brookfieldil.gov/audio-files/ The variance application may be viewed at the Village of Brookfield Village Hall during normal business hours. Written comments may be provided prior to 4:00 PM on the day of the meeting to: Village of Brookfield, Planning and Zoning Commission c/o Kendra Kuehlem, 8820 Brookfield Avenue, Brookfield, IL 60513 and at kkuehlem@brookfieldil.gov. Individuals with disabilities requiring accommodations in order to participate in any meeting may contact the Village of Brookfield at (708) 4857344 prior to the meeting. Wheelchair access is available through the front (south) entrance of Village Hall. Public hearings may be continued from time to time without further notice, except as otherwise required under the Illinois Open Meetings Act. By the Order of Chuck Grund, Planning and Zoning Commission Chairman. Published in RB Landmark September 8, 2021

PUBLIC NOTICES

Hire Local.

Place an ad on Wednesday Classified’s Local Online Job Board. Go to RBLandmark/classified today! Contact Mary Ellen Nelligan for more information. (708) 613-3342 maryellen@rblandmark.com

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

The Landmark, September 8, 2021

G TIN 1-3 S I L N W SU NEPEN O

N W CTIO E N RU ST N O C

G IN M CO

ON SO

205 E Quincy St, Riverside $290,000

337 Longcommon Rd, Riverside $975,000

808 Community Dr, LaGrange Park $635,000

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

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

229 Park Ave, #308, Clarendon Hills $3,125/mo

AL NT E R

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

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EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY

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