Landmark_110823

Democracy Needs News. News Needs YOU. Donate to the Landmark

Details on page 16

RIVERSIDE-BROOKFIELD $1.00

Vol. 38, No. 45

Also serving North Riverside

November 8, 2023

Hollywood School stands out PAGE 3

Education Guide Page 19

Rashid urges Biden to call for Gaza cease-fire PAGE 8

Brookfield begins making sustainability a priority with new plans

Branching out

The conservation commission’s proposed plan outlines priorities and initiatives for the village

Riverside Forester Michael Collins to direct state arborist association

By FRANCIA GARCIA HERNANDEZ Staff Reporter

By the end of the year, Brookfield residents are likely to see a final proposal on how the village can preserve the environment, efficiently manage the village’s resources and be a sustainability steward.

STORY ON PAGE 5

FILE

T R O P PASS

Your

t o NE W S & C O M

See SUSTAINABILITY on page 10

MUNITY

Subscribe & support us at RBLandmark.com/subscribe

2

The Landmark, November 8, 2023

THE MACLEAN HOUSE AT CALEDONIA SENIOR LIVING.

They will never forget the feeling of being loved.

Holiday items • • Pet Items • • Gift Baskets • All proceeds benefit our shelter!

Friday, Dec. 1 • 3-9pm Sat. Dec. 2 • 9am-3pm • Sun. Dec. 3 • 11-3pm

Santa will be there!

Join us for pictures on Sunday December 3 11am-3pm Pets with their people are welcome.

IMMEDIATE AVAILABILITY FOR MEMORY CARE SCHEDULE A PERSONAL TOUR TODAY!

2800 Des Plaines Avenue North Riverside, IL 60546 (708) 477-5092 | CaledoniaSeniorLiving.org

Bake Sale & Raffle

same location!

1529 S. Harlem, Berwyn

Inside the North Berwyn Park District building • Parking available!

Thanks to our sponsors North Berwyn Park District & VS Printing

Visit animalcareleague.org for full event details!

IT’S HERE!

* 5.88% 5.77% 5.88% APY* APY * 5.77% APY APY*

Certificateof ofDeposit Deposit 1111-Month Month Certificate

Certificate of 77-Month Month Certificate of Deposit Deposit

Call 948-1990to toopen openyour youraccount accounttoday! today!

Call(919) 708.447.3330

7820 West 26th Street, North Riverside, IL 60546 P: 919.948.1990 | westtownbank.com *Annual Percentage YieldYield (APY) (APY) accurate as of November 2023 and26, is subject change.

A *Annual Percentage accurate as of 1,October 2023toand is subject to change. A minimum of minimum of $10,000 is required to open the account and to obtain the stated APY. Fees may $10,000 is required to open the account and to obtain the stated APY. Fees may reduce earnings on the reduce earnings on the account. A penalty may be imposed for early withdrawal. Offer is for account.

A only. penalty may be imposed for early withdrawal. Offer is for new money only. new money

7820 West 26th Street, North Riverside, IL 60546 P: 708.447.3330 | westtownbank.com

adno=STM000115931401

adno=STM000116375801

The Landmark, November 8, 2023

Hollywood School ranks exemplary on school report card All the other elementary schools in Brookfield, Riverside and North Riverside were rated commendable by the state

Calendar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4 Crime . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15 Classified . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21 Opinion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17 Obituaries. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17 Sports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19 Editor Erika Hobbs Staff Reporters Francia Garcia Hernandez, Amaris Rodriguez Digital Manager Stacy Coleman Design/Production Manager Andrew Mead Editorial Design Manager Javier Govea Designer Susan McKelvey Sales and Marketing Representatives Lourdes Nicholls, Ben Stumpe Business & Development Manager Mary Ellen Nelligan Circulation Manager Jill Wagner EMAIL jill@oakpark.com

By BOB SKOLNIK Contributing Reporter

The smallest public elementary school in Brookfield, Riverside and North Riverside was the best last year, at least according to the Illinois State School Report Card.

Hollywood School received the only exemplary rating among the elementary and junior high schools in this area.

To be classified as exemplary by the Illinois State Board of Education, a school must rank in the top 10% of public schools in the state on a complex metric that includes many different factors.

The other schools in the area were rated as commendable. A school with a commendable summative designation has no underperforming subgroups, but does not rank in the top 10% of public schools in the state. The great majority of schools in Illinois receive a commendable rating.

“Coming out of the pandemic and continuing to be exemplary is just amazing because I know we don’t just do academics,” said Hollywood School Principal Kim Hefner said. “We do everything. We support the whole child so it’s great, it’s great.”

At Hollywood School last year, 76% of students met or exceeded the state’s proficiency standards in English Language Arts, while 64% met or exceeded the state standards in math.

“I’m proud of the students, proud of the staff, proud of the families,” Hefner said.

“It’s a whole community effort.”

Hollywood is a small school with only one section of each grade. Its small size may have helped it achieve the exemplary rating because it only reported scores from three subgroups, boys, girls and white students. It did not have enough students of

IN THIS ISSUE

Publisher Dan Haley Special Projects Manager Susan Walker FILET

Hollywood School color to constitute a subgroup and did not have enough students who are not native English speakers to qualify as subgroup.

Ames School was the only elementary school in Riverside Elementary School District 96 that had enough non-native English speakers to qualify as a subgroup.

Hollywood’s proficiency scores outpaced all the other schools in District 96.

At Central School, 67% of students met or exceeded the state standard in ELA, while 63% did so in math. At Ames School, 64% of students met or exceeded the state standard in ELA, while 57% did so in math.

Blythe Park students struggled with math, as only 49% of Blythe Park students met or exceeded the state standard in math, while 64% did so in ELA. “The math results were not what the staff and I would have liked them to be,” Blythe Park Principal Casimira Gorman said in an email. “Fluctuations in test scores are usually the result of a combination of factors. Some of these contributing factors include specific cohorts of students who

test that year, adjustments to a new curriculum, and post-pandemic challenges.

During the summer and at the beginning of the school year, the staff and I spent considerable time analyzing students’ math data to determine specific areas for growth and improvement. Through whole class and small group instruction along with our Multi-Tiered System of Supports, we have a clear direction for our work this year.”

At L.J. Hauser Junior High School, 61% met or exceeded state standards in ELA and 56% did so in math.

Statewide, students did better in ELA than in math. Scores in District 96, and elsewhere are generally improving but not back to pre-pandemic levels, particularly in math.

District 95 In Brookfield, LaGrange Park School District 95 Brook Park Elementary School See REPORT CARD on page 7

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

HOW TO REACH US ADDRESS 141 S. Oak Park Ave., Oak Park, IL 60302 PHONE 708-442-6739 ■ FAX 708-467-9066 E-MAIL buphues@rblandmark.com ONLINE www.RBLandmark.com The Landmark is published digitally and in print by Growing Community Media NFP. The newspaper is available on newsstands for $1.00.

A one-year subscription costs $41 within Cook County and $51 outside the county. Advertising rates may be obtained by calling our office. Periodical rate postage paid at Oak Park, IL (USPS 0019-585). Postmaster send address corrections to Landmark, 141 S. Oak Park Ave., Oak Park, IL 60302. © 2023 Growing Community Media NFP.

3

4

The Landmark, November 8, 2023

BIG WEEK

November 8-15

Crafternoon: Seasonal Candles Saturday, Nov. 11 1:30 p.m.-2:30 p.m., North Riverside Public Library What do you get when you cross a relaxing Saturday afternoon and crafts?

Well, you get Crafternoon! Crafternoon is conducted by the North Riverside Public Library on the second Saturday of every month. Up this month are Fall Seasonal Candles. In this fun craft, you can paint whatever you’d like on your candle and watch it melt away when it’s lit. Spend a leisurely afternoon crafting with your family and neighbors. Make sure to RSVP on the library’s website. 2400 S. Desplaines Ave.

Annual Turkey Shoot Morning Munchkins Storytime Monday, Nov. 13, 10:30 a.m.-11 a.m., North Riverside Public Library Bring your little munchkin(s) to Morning Munchkins at the library this coming Monday. Get ready for a half hour of stories, songs, show and tell, and more! While the older kids are at school, bring your little one(s) to this morning of fun at the library. To extend the fun, maybe take them out for breakfast before or after! So, attend triple M: Monday Morning Munchkins!

Children 5 and younger must be accompanied by an adult. RSVP at the library’s website. 2400 S. Desplaines Ave.

Stockings for Soldiers & Veterans

Now - Saturday, Dec. 9, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Kuratko-Nosek Funeral Home

From now until Dec. 6, you can stop in at Kurato-Nosek Funeral Home and pick up a Christmas stocking to take home. You can decorate it and fill it with Christmas cheer! Your bundle of Christmas cheer will be stocked and shipped to troops abroad or veterans at home just in time for the holiday. Christmas is a time of giving and happiness, so make sure everyone can participate and feel the love this holiday season. Once you pick up your stocking, a list of recommended stocking stuffers will be provided as a guideline. “Providing our heroes with some good tidings and holiday cheer is a great way for us to show our support and appreciation for the sacrifices they make to keep our country safe and secure,” said Frank Nosek Jr., the funeral home owner. Besides stockings, the funeral home is also looking for donations of old cell phones to give to troops, as well. 2447 S. Desplaines Ave., North Riverside.

Tree Trim Saturday, Nov. 11 - Sunday, Nov. 12, 7 p.m., Brookfield Zoo Who says you can’t get into the Christmas spirit before the month of December? Brookfield Zoo certainly doesn’t! Join your community at the zoo Saturday and/or Sunday for this preparation of Holiday Magic by participating in their Tree Trim.

Even though all the trees are sold out, you and your family can still attend the event! Holiday Magic occurs in the month of December but sponsoring a tree is the best way to support the zoo for the big event! Everyone is welcome: school groups, scout troops, families, and companies. To buy tickets visit Brookfield Zoo Tree Trim. 8400 W. 31st St.

Sunday, Nov. 19 10:30 a.m.-4 p.m., Mater Christi, Menarik Hall Are you in need of a Thanksgiving turkey? Well, you’re in luck! The St. Paul VI Holy Name Society will be holding their annual Turkey Shoot this Sunday in Menarik Hall on the Mater Christi Campus in North Riverside. This Turkey Shoot will include 50 turkey raffles, games, pull tabs, split-the-pot, food, and more. Every five minutes, attendees have a chance of winning a turkey.

Games of chance will be played in which you can win more than 1,000 grocery items, along with pumpkin pies, cakes, kolacky, houska, panettone, rye bread, ham, prasky, and salami. While events occur, multiple televisions will be playing various NFL games, as well. Food and drink, such as hot dogs, pumpkin pie, ice cream, beer, and soda will be on site to fill empty stomachs. For more information, call 708-602-1927. 2400 S. 10th Ave., North Riverside.

Compiled by Grace Harty, Contributing Reporter

CALENDAR EVENTS ■ If you would like your event to be featured here, please send a photo and details by noon of the Wednesday before it needs to be published.

We can’t publish everything, but we’ll do our best to feature the week’s highlights.

Email calendar@wjinc.com.

5

The Landmark, November 8, 2023

Village forester Michael Collins named director of state arborist association Collins continues to foster growth in his career with more than 19 years of serving Riverside

By HECTOR CERVANTES Contributing Reporter

Village forester for Riverside’s public works department Michael Collins joins the Board of the Illinois Arborist Association as a municipal director and will be inducted in the IAA’s 41st Annual Conference and trade show this week.

Collins has been a forester for the department for 19 years.

The department is responsible for providing a variety of services to maintain a healthy, diverse stock of trees.

“Being a part of the IAA board can bring back good standard operating procedures for the village of Riverside,” Collins said. “There is professional development with the forestry industry and being part of that and fostering this is a great opportunity to learn from other arborists and will further develop my skill set for the village.”

IAA is a non-profit organization that supports research, education, networking, and training for its members. The IAA is instrumental in Collin’s career development as a municipal arborist, he said.

Collin will moderate the afternoon sessions of the conference on one of the days, and he will engage in an IAA’s orientation and will officially start his role in January of 2024.

MICHAEL COLLINS “It is a tremendous honor to represent the municipal sector of forestry. I am excited to give back to an organization that has given a lot to me as an arborist over the years in my career and development.

I am excited to give back to the community,” Collins said.

The mission of IAA is to foster interest, establish standards, exchange professional ideas and pursue scientific research in arboriculture.

“As a municipal arborist, I have been benefiting from this mission statement for many years,” Collins said. “Science is the foundation of all learning and how we manage trees and how they react to our management strategies. That scientific base is an important one and also the educational opportunities in the interest and connecting with other professionals is all what it is all about.”

“You learn from your peers more than a textbook and this org has done than amazing job. It has been a vital part of development all along the way and everything they have done in a mission statement whether talking about scientific re-

FILE

Riverside Village Forester Michael Collins uses a drip torch to set fire to old growth in Swan Pond Park and then watches as it gradually creeps through the area. The fire will root out invasive species of plants, but native species adapted to periodic burns will survive. search and the standards,” Collins said.

Riverside’s tree population is 10,000 trees and is one of the most distinct features of Riverside, according to the department of public works.

“As a forester for the village, it can get challenging to keep up with maintenance. There are a lot of trees for one person to manage and that is the challenge in keeping up with the workload. I think it is where I am providing and maintaining a high level,” Collins said.

Throughout Collins’ 19 years as a forester in Riverside, he has initiated many different projects for the community.

“I think from my perspective, it is hard to toot my own horn, but in that vein some projects have been important to

me. I value the landscape volunteer workdays,” Collins said.

The Frederick Law Olmsted Society partnered with the village of Riverside in 2023 for landscape workdays. Landscape workdays allowed landscapers the chance to fix up parks along Riverside Road and around Indian Gardens, Harrington Park and Patriots Park and among other locations in the Riverside Community.

Another thing Collins is proud of in his career is when he partnered with several people to create three boardroom tables out of an oak tree.

“I am thrilled to join the board and provide my knowledge and enthusiasm for the board to push the arbor culture industry forward,” Collins said.

6

The Landmark, November 8, 2023

Phoenix Bathtub Renewals • Bathtub & Tile Refinishing • Bathtub Liners • Wall Surround Systems “Your source for affordable bathroom renovation”

www.phoenixbathtubs.com • (708) 863-3600 SAWA’SOld OLD Warsaw WARSAW Sawa’s Authentic Polish-American Smorgasbord

Restaurant • Lounge • Banquets • The Jazz Room Authentic Smorgasbord DinePolish-American In • Carry Out • Catering • Delivery

www.SawasOldWarsaw.com Restaurant • Lounge • Banquets • Dine In • Carry Out • Catering & Delivery

www.SawasOldWarsaw.com

THANKSGIVING JOINFEA US FOR ST OUR

THANKSGIVING FEAST

Sliced Turkey Carved Round of Beef Carved Ham off the Bone Pierogies Sliced Turkey Broasted Chicken Mashed Potatoes with Brown Gravy Fresh Smoke Polish Sausage Carved Round& of Beef Sauerkraut Best Salad Bar in Town Carved Ham off the Bone Holiday Sweet Potatoes Mushroom & ChickenHours Noodle Soup Broasted Chicken Stuffing Christmas Eve - Closed Apple Crepes + Soft Serve Ice Cream Fresh & Smoke Polish Sausage Christmas Day - Closed Potato Pancakes Pumpkin Pie + Dessert Table Shrimp Cocktail New Years Eve Closed Pierogies New Years Day - Closed Kolaczki + Assorted Cakes Stuffing/Sauerkraut Mushroom Soup Sweet Potatoes Mashed Potatoes with Brown Gravy Veteran’s Day Special Potato Pancakes Full Salad Bar Saturday, November 11 Stuffed CabbageTable Dessert 50% off all day for all veterans Pumpkin Pie (Must show proof) Kolaczki

WeConnect $23 Adults

Reservations Required

$32 Adults•$13 Children $10 Children

11am to 8pm Seating reservations every 2 hours Seating reservations every 1/2 hour 9200 W. Cermak Rd ~ Broadview, IL ~ 708.343.9040 Ample Parking Available ~ Large Families Welcome ~ Video Poker

essential news. essential voices.

Sawa’s Old Warsaw ~ 9200 W. Cermak Road ~ Broadview, IL ~ 708.343.9040 Ample Parking Available ~ Large Families Welcome ~ Video Poker Sign-up for the Polonia Gazeta (Email Newsletter) for upcoming events

WeConnect

essential news. essential voices.

FILE

Riverside Township Hall

Riverside requests 6.07% levy hike for 2023 tax About 82% of levied taxes will go to the village’s funds, 17% for the library

By FRANCIA GARCIA HERNANDEZ Staff Reporter

The village of Riverside will seek to extend its 2023 property tax by 6.07%.

Although the village seeks that extension, it is not likely to collect the full amount because of the state’s tax cap law for non-home rule municipalities such as Riverside.

The law limits tax levy increases for non-home rule communities to 5% or the level of the consumer price index, whichever is less. The CPI for 2023 is 6.5%.

The village requests an increase of 6.07% to capture any growth in the property value determined by Cook County as a basis to calculate property taxes, called

equalized assessed value. Local tax rates and levies, as well as applicable tax deductions, are applied to the equalized assessed value, determining how much taxes each property owner will pay.

The village estimates the 2023 tax levy is around $8.1 million.

About $6.7 million or 82%, of the proposed levy is for the village’s general funds, special recreations fund and debt service funds. This represents an increase of about 8% from last year’s levy. The remaining $1.4 million is for Riverside’s library, about 3.1% more than last year’s levy.

After holding a public hearing on Nov. 2, the village board is expected to approve the 2023 tax levy at the Dec. 7 village board meeting.

The Landmark, November 8, 2023

REPORT CARD

Lyons School District 103

At Lincoln School in Brookfield, the only elementary school in Lyons School District 103 that serves students from Brookfield, only 15% of students met the state profifrom page 3 ciency standard in ELA and just 12% did so dropped to the commendable designation in math. Lincoln received a commendable this year after being classified as exempla- designation.

George Washington Middle School, ry last year. At Brook Park, 44.1% of students met or exceeded the state standard which serves students who live in the in ELA, down 4.1 points from last year’s southeast portion of Brookfield as well as 48.1%. But Brook Park students did bet- all other students in District 103, was desigter in math this year than one year ago. nated a targeted school, which means that one or more student subgroups are perIn 2023, 35.8% of Brook Park forming at or below the level students met or exceeded the of the lowest performing 5% state’s math proficiency stanof schools. The low performdard, an increase from 33.6% ing subgroups at GWMS were one year ago. Brook Park is Black/AfricanAmerican in its second year of using students and students with a new math curriculum, Evdisabilities. Schools with the eryday Math. targeted designation receive Brook Park Grades 3-5 Prinextra help from the state in an cipal Mike Sorensen said that attempt to boost student perthe overall growth in student formance. learning decreased a bit at Overall, only 15% of GWMS Brook Park last year. students met the state stan“We still had growth, but it dard in ELA, which was a wasn’t to the extent it was the slight improvement from the year before,” Sorensen said.

13% that met or exceeded Sorensen said that all the ELA standard in 2022. schools have room to improve.

In math, just 10% of GWMS “I think every school instudents met or exceeded the MIKE SORENSEN cluding ours has room to imstate standard, slightly highBrook Park principal prove on their data and we’ll er than the 8.8% who did so continue to work but we’re in 2022. proud of our kids. I think Nearly 20% of white GWMS they work really hard; our students met or exceeded the staff works really hard.”

At S.E. Gross Middle School, scores in state standard in ELA, while 14.5% of HisELA improved a bit, jumping to 50.8% panic students and 11.4% of Black GWMS meeting or exceeding the state standards students did so. In math, 13.5% of white in 2023 from 49.7% in 2022. Gross had more GWMS students met or exceed the state high scoring students in ELA this past year proficiency standard compared with 9.7% with 16.3% of Gross students exceeding the of Hispanic students. No Black students at GWMS met or exceeded the state’s math state standard, up from 10.5% in 2022.

Math performance at Gross also slightly proficiency standard.

About 6.2% of GWMS students with improved with 30.3% of Gross students Individual Education Plans and 5.1% of meeting or exceeding the state’s math proGWMS students with disabilities met the ficiency standard, up from 28% in 2022. state standard in ELA. In math, only 3.7% of GWMS students with IEPs and just 3% Komarek of GWMS students with disabilities met Scores improved considerably at Kom- the state standard.

Range of results

“I think every school including ours has room to improve on their data and we’ll continue to work but we’re proud of our kids. I think they work really hard; our staff works really hard.”

arek School in North Riverside. In ELA, the number of students meeting or exceeding the state’s ELA proficiency benchmark jumped to 37.7% in 2023 from 28.2% in 2022.

Math scores also improved at Komarek with the percentage of students meeting or exceeding the state’s math proficiency standard, rising to 25.3% this year, up from 21.3% in 2022.

Your business moves fast.

So does our financing.

Byline Express Loans can help your business grow with term loans and revolving lines of credit.

Rapid funding by local decision makers.

Congress Park School At Congress Park Elementary School, which serves the southwestern portion of Brookfield and is part of LaGrange School District 102, 43% of students met the state proficiency standard in ELA while 35% did so in math.

All loans subject to approval. © 2023 Byline Bank. Member FDIC.

Scan to get started today.

7

8

The Landmark, November 8, 2023

YOUR

BEST

LIFE

with Lisa Capone Thrive Through Connection Winter is right around the corner. Cold and snow make it hard for seniors to get out of the house, resulting in isolation. Senior living communities mitigate loneliness by offering social opportunities that don’t require you to brave the elements.

• Social Engagement: with a range of on-campus activities and events like fitness classes, hobby clubs and game nights that encourage interaction, residents can stay engaged and active within their own living environment.

• Built-In Social Network: being surrounded by people of the same age and in a similar stage of life makes it easier to connect with others who share your interests, experiences and concerns.

• Camaraderie: it’s more comfortable to make new friends when you share meals and spend time together. Community common areas and dining plans give residents the chance to forge new relationships every day.

Designed to promote a sense of belonging, senior living communities boost residents’ spirits during Chicagoland’s harsh winters.

Visit Cantata.org for more senior living advice or call (708) 387-8182.

Independent Living•Assisted Living•Memory Support Short-Term Rehab•Long-Term Care•Home Care

Rashid urges Biden to call for immediate cease-fire in Gaza The state rep. was at a White House AI event last week

By BOB SKOLNIK

percent of Democrats support a cease fire and 66% of Americans, so I hope President Biden is listenState Representative Abdelnasser Rashid ing to where Americans are at.”

Rashid declined to say which (D-Bridgeview) urged President Joe Biden to call for an immediate cease-fire in Gaza, White House officials he spoke something that Biden has so far refused to do. with, but said that he did not Rashid was at the White House last week speak directly to Biden.

Rashid said that he felt a responto be in the audience when Biden signed an executive order about artificial intelligence. sibility to make his views known about the situation in While at the White House and Gaza while he was at in Washington, D.C., Rashid, the the White House for first Palestinian American to the signing of the execserve in the Illinois General Asutive order about AI. He sembly, took advantage of the was asked if he felt any hesitancy opportunity to talk with White about attending the White House House officials about war in Gaza event at a time when some signs and Israel. at Palestinian protest rallies have “The longer it takes for Presiaccused Biden of being complicit dent Biden to call for a cease-fire with genocide. and the more civilians are killed “I take my responsibility as a and injured, the more that publeader on AI in Illinois seriously, lic trust in his leadership will so attending the signing ceremoerode,” Rashid told The Landny for the executive order was immark. portant for me to be able to help Biden has so far refused to do my job better on that issue and call for a cease-fire. Instead, the I feel a responsibility and an oblipresident has said that Israel has gation as someone who has a platthe right to defend itself after a form and who has access to posurprise early morning attack litical leaders to fight for human on Oct. 7 by the Hamas militant rights and to make sure that our group that governs Gaza. It killed country does not continue going at least 1,400 people, most of them civilians, and Hamas is holding ABDELNASSER RASHID down this path of blind support for indiscriminate attacks on ci240 people hostage.

State rep. vilians,” Rashid said.

The White House has called Rashid, who spent part of his for brief humanitarian pauses childhood in a Palestinian village in the fighting to allow for some on the West Bank that is territory supplies to be brought to the Gaza Strip. Israel has bombed Gaza in re- controlled by Israel, said he thought the Issponse to the Hamas attack and has invad- raeli hostages held in Gaza should be immeed Gaza with ground troops. It is estimated diately released in exchange for a cease-fire.

“The cease fire needs to be immediate, and that about 9,000 Gazans have been killed in the absence of a cease fire endangers those the Israeli bombings and invasion.

Rashid told The Landmark that American hostages,” Rashid responded.

Rashid said that the war must stop. public opinion supports a cease fire.

“There is no military solution to the siege “I think that the President’s failure to call for an immediate cease fire is seriously on Gaza that has trapped 2.3 million people eroding the public’s trust in his leadership,” in an open-air prison and has deprived them Rashid said, citing a poll from the progres- of food, water, electricity and fuel, and has sive think tank Data for Progress. “Eighty created a mental health crisis,” Rashid said.

Contributing Reporter

“The cease fire needs to be immediate, and the absence of a cease fire endangers those hostages.”

“There is no military solution to this conflict; the only path forward is for us to end the siege and end the occupation so that we protect both Palestinians and Israelis.”

Rashid was invited to the signing of Biden’s executive order on AI because he is a co-chairperson of a new state task force on artificial intelligence. The executive order that was signed by Biden Oct. 30 requires that developers of AI systems that might pose risks to the national security of the United States, the economy, or public health and safety to share the results of safety tests with the federal government.

“It’s a very important executive order that helps build a framework for how government should speak about regulating artificial intelligence,” Rashid said. “It is a very thoughtful document, but it is still the starting point; this is not federal legislation; this is not state legislation but it’s a very meaningful starting point.”

Rashid said composition of the state AI task force has not been fully filled out, so the task force hasn’t had any formal meetings yet. Rashid said that there are several issues involving AI that need to be addressed, such as the use of deep fakes and the protection of privacy and confidentiality.

“We have some ideas about the areas that need particular attention,” Rashid said. “The public expects us as lawmakers to protect them from the harms that AI can create while we embrace the benefits that AI has to offer.

The public is really counting on us to help protect them from the harms.”

The Landmark, November 8, 2023

9

Riverside’s train station to get electrical improvements Clerk Ethan Sowl said between More electric outlets are 2022Village and 2023, the train station was rented for 15 events, generating $2,500 in intended to make the revenue.

Not all events generated revenue as some were space safer, more suitable by the village.co-sponsored or organized Trustee Megan Claucherty said it is imfor events portant to have places for gathering, yet the

By FRANCIA GARCIA HERNANDEZ Staff Reporter

The board of trustees once more looked into improvements to Riverside’s historic train station, a venue available for special and private events.

The historic venue has limited access to electric outlets and other features. Initially built in 1910 as a passenger waiting area, it does not have a kitchen or air conditioning.

Public Works Director Dan Tabbs told the village board meeting last Thursday that after evaluating the station’s infrastructure, the village found it is possible to install electric floor outlets. Six outlets on the western side of the station could be installed with a cost of about $10,000. Two additional outlets could be installed on the east side, where all available outlets now are.

In September, Tabbs asked the board to consider whether the village wanted to invest in installing electric outlets across the station to minimize the use of extension cords during events. These are a safety hazard, and not having enough electric outlets complicates logistics for event organizers, he said. Yet, installing electric outlets on the walls would damage the venue’s wainscoting, an idea rejected by the board. The board also asked to look into the venue’s use and revenue before making a decision.

Riverside train station

village should evaluate the cost of installing outlets for the venue. She also said she is “uncomfortable” with having a safety issue in a space used for community events.

“My thought is that if the types of events we’re having in a space are not suited to the space, perhaps they should be utilizing other spaces rather than a pretty costly repair for that purpose,” she said.

Trustee Aberdeen Marsh-Ozga had a different viewpoint.

“I consider $10,000 to bring one of our very few gathering spaces and event spaces in Riverside up to a fully functional standpoint to be a very small [number],” said Marsh-Ozga.

Places for gathering are priorities to the community, Trustee Cristin Evans said.

Trustee Jill Mateos and Alexander Gallegos agreed.

Claucherty asked the village to evaluate the current prices of renting the space and compare them to current prices for similar venues. Rental fees have remained the same since the train station rental policy was updated in 2016, said Village Manager Jessica Frances.

“Nothing is still the same price as it was in 2016, not even electric outlets,” Claucherty said.

Ultimately, the board approved installing eight electric outlets and updating the train station rental policy. The update will prevent event users from moving the benches in the station to prevent damage to the benches and the terrazzo floors, Frances said.

Installation will be completed by the end of 2023 to be covered by this year’s budget, which has about $18,000 allocated for train station imFILE provements.

GOOGLE MAPS

Riverside train station

By Linda Sokol Francis. E.A.

TAXPAYERS SHOULD AVOID THESE COMMON MISTAKES WHEN THEY FILE THEIR TAX RETURN: PART II

M

ath mistakes: Math errors are some of the most common mistakes.

They range from simple addition and subtraction to more complex calculations.

Taxpayers should always double check their math. Better yet, tax prep software will check it automatically.

Figuring credits or deductions: Taxpayers can make mistakes figuring things like their earned income tax credit, child and dependent care credit and child tax credit.

Incorrect bank account numbers: Taxpayers who are due a refund should choose direct deposit. This is the fastest way for them to get their money. However, taxpayers need to make sure they use the correct routing and account numbers on their tax return.

Unsigned forms: An unsigned tax return isn’t valid. In most cases, both spouses must sign a joint return. Exceptions may apply for members of the armed forces or other taxpayers who have a valid power of attorney.

Disreputable tax preparers: Taxpayers should remember they, not the tax preparer, are responsible for the information on their tax return. The IRS has resources to help taxpayers find someone to prepare their tax return. Certified public accountants and enrolled agnets can help tax payers avoid errors.

Linda Sokol Francis, E.A.

3439 Grand Boulevard • Brookfield, Illinois 60513 • 708-485-9224 Brought to you as a public service since 1975

10

The Landmark, November 8, 2023

Elizabeth Kos appointed as trustee She takes Doug Bollock’s seat after he was tapped to be president

By AMINA SERGAZINA Contributing Reporter

Elizabeth Kos was appointed as the new trustee for Riverside at last week’s village board meeting.

“It’s an honor to serve your town in this way, and I’m just hoping that I can do some good and get up to speed quickly and help out,” Kos said.

The trustee vacancy was created after former Village President Joseph Ballerine resigned Sept. 21 because he purchased a home out of state and moved out of Riverside.

That same evening, the Village Board nominated and approved Village Trustee Doug Pollock to serve as acting village president. After being sworn in, Pollock resigned from his position as trustee.

According to the municipal code, the village president makes appointments with the advice and consent of the board of trustees.

Pollock recommended Kos to fill the vacancy. She had been a member of the parks and recreation board since 2013 and its chairperson since 2018.

Kos was born in Riverside and moved

SUSTAINABILITY Expanded effort from page 1 For several months, the conservation commission has worked with village officials and residents to draft and propose sustainability actions and goals for the village. These will all be compiled in a proposed sustainability plan for the village of Brookfield.

A September draft of the plan obtained by the Landmark shows that the proposed plan identifies who will be responsible for implementing each action and estimates a timeline for completion.

The proposed plan is still being reviewed and adjusted by the commission’s members. Once a final draft is ready, it will be reviewed by village staff and adjusted as needed. Ultimately, it will be presented to the Board of Trustees, who will evaluate

back to raise her two children here with her husband, Craig. Besides her community involvement, she works as a director of lifelong formation for St. Paul VI Parish.

In her job, Kos has constant contact with the Riverside community and helps them develop their path to faith.

Pollock said that Kos’ background was the reason for choosing her as a new trustee.

“She’s very professional, she’s respectful of other people and thoughtful, She has a pleasant temperament, which fits well with a group like the village board, and she has all the qualities to be a good trustee,” Pollock said.

Pollock also highlighted that Kos was not hesitant to participate in her first meeting Nov. 2, unlike many newly appointed trustees in the past.

Kos said although she does not have any specific plans stepping into the role, her main goal is to make all members of the community feel heard and understood.

“I’m passionate about is Riverside. And so you know, doing … what I feel is best after hearing out everything, you know, getting out gathering all the information and hearing it out,” Kos said.

Elizabeth Kos is sworn in as Riverside village trustee on Nov. 2, 2023.

the proposal and decide whether or not to approve it, said Bridget Jakubiak, chair of the conservation commission.

Creating a sustainability plan for the village aligns with village officials’ and administrators’ intentions to have a cohesive document that outlines sustainability priorities – and one that could guide the village’s decision-making processes.

Though it is not final yet, the proposed plan includes goals and actions for land management, water use, energy consumption, sustainable transportation, waste management and air quality. The drafted plan also includes goals to reduce the village’s greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 compared to 2010 greenhouse gas emissions.

To identify these goals and actions, the commission used a template proposed by the Metropolitan Mayors Caucus and a list of initiatives adopted by other municipalities, Jakubiak said. Many of these initiatives are comprehensive and require significant efforts and investments so the Conservation Commission is evaluating whether they

could be completed in the short term or if they should be presented as a goal for the next five or 10 years, said Victor Janusz, forestry foreman and staff liaison.

To shape the plan for Brookfield, the conservation commission and village staff are also reviewing and adjusting the initiatives, goals and priority areas to Brookfield’s needs and capacity. The commission is also reviewing how the proposed goals align with other sustainability initiatives already adopted by the village, such as the Cross-Community Climate Collaborative (C4) and state and federal environmental initiatives.

The knowledge and expertise of several members of the conservation commission has also helped in the process of creating this proposal, Janusz said. Some of its members have professional experience in creating sustainability plans or have working knowledge of some of the priority areas it covers, Jakubiak said.

“We’ve been very lucky all of the commissioners are volunteers who have been

FRANCIA GARCIA HERNANDEZ

appointed by the village trustees and we’ve been very fortunate that so many people in Brookfield are really passionate about sustainability,” Jakubiak said.

The proposed plan is not short of residents’ input who have also engaged in the planning process.

Beyond the management of natural resources, the drafted plan recognizes that a sustainable community is one that is culturally vibrant, welcoming, inclusive and equitable. Thus, it also includes goals and actions to promote Brookfield as a sustainable community.

The effort to create a sustainability plan for the village aligns with current village initiatives. The 2023 annual budget included developing more sustainability initiatives and continuing existing nature enhancing programs.

If approved, the sustainability plan will complement the village board’s strategic plan by outlining priority areas in nature preservation, energy, water and waste management initiatives.

November 8, 2023 11

E D U C AT I O N & E N R I C H M E N T G U I D E

Special Advertising Section

Education

Fall into Winter 2023

and

Enrichment

Guide

local schools | early learning | tutoring programs

Anderson Music Studio Launches Suzuki Cello and Piano Programs

A

nderson Music Studio, Riverside’s premier destination for music lessons, is pleased to announce the launch of our Suzuki cello and piano programs.

Expanding upon our well-established violin program of 35 students, we’ve welcomed the talented Ms. Yu-Hsuan “Kimi” Lee to bring these new instruments to our repertoire. Ms. Kimi is an accomplished performer on both cello and piano, and she’s joining the Anderson Music faculty to bring the joy of music to a new group of families.

“I am overjoyed to finally be expanding our programming beyond violin,” said Nissa Anderson, founder and director of Anderson Music. “It’s been in the works for months and we finally found a great fit in Ms. Kimi.”

This is a big step for Anderson Music, which has been delivering top-tier music education since 2018. The

school found a new home at Ascension Lutheran Church in Riverside in 2020 and has been steadily growing ever since.

Anderson Music employs the Suzuki method, a highly respected approach to music education. The method is based on the idea that all children have innate ability to learn as long as they are exposed to high quality music performance. These new programs will adhere to this philosophy, collaborating with parents to offer a nurturing environment to support our budding musicians.

Here’s more music for your ears: book a mini lesson, mention the Landmark, and you’ll receive your first month of lessons 50% off! Visit andersonmusic.studio or call 708-695-7383 to book today. Valid through January 8th, 2024.

12 November 8, 2023

E D U C AT I O N & E N R I C H M E N T G U I D E

Special Advertising Section

Riverside Brookfield High School

Fall Bazaar & Bake Sale

UPCOMING EVENTS: Veterans Day Celebration Friday, November 10 from 8:30 a.m.-10:45 a.m.

Contact fletcherk@rbhs208.net for more information Board of Education Meeting Tuesday, November 14 at 7 PM Room 201

th

ethr 18 mb18 e Date:atu Saturday, November v o N y, a rd S Date: Time: 9am to 3pm Date: Saturday, November 18th m p 3 to m a 9 : e (North Location: St. Louise de Marillac Tim thSite) Time: 9am to 3pm Date: Saturday, November 18 a Parish Center d Entrance e Marill c (North Site)

RBEF Magic Show Friday, November 17 at 7 PM in the Auditorium Suggested donation of $10

ise Lou St.1113 : St. cation9am LoTime: Harrison Ave to 3pm (North Site) Location: Louise de rMarillac Entrance

160 Ridgewood Road, Riverside, IL 60546

te IL CenPark, shCenter PariLaGrange Entrance (North Site) Location: Parish St. Louise de ve A nMarillac so ri ar H 3 1 1 1 For more1113 information visit: HGAParish.org Harrison Ave Parish Center Entrance For more information , ILvisit: rk Pa e g n LaGrange Park, IL ra G HGAParish.org La 1113 Harrison Ave

Follow Clara through the 36th Annual Production magical world of dance

38th Annual Production

Saturday, December SATURDAY, DECEMBER 4,2nd 2021 2pm and 7pm 2PM & 7PM Sunday December 3rd SUNDAY, 12pmDECEMBER and 4pm5, 2021

2PM

LaGrange Park, IL For more information visit: on visit: informati

ore For mHGAParish.org

B

For moreHinformation visit: GAParish.org

allet Legere’s 38th annual HGAParish.org opportunities to perform alongside production of the Nutcracker. professional dancers in a complete The production, in its entirety, ballet, as well as expose and educate will be presented at Dominican all ages and cultures to the art of a University Performing Arts Center ballet through our field trip program. in River Forest for the public on Performance Dates and Times December, 2nd -3rd 2023.

Saturday, December 2nd This year Guest Artists Marcus 2pm and 7pm Romeo and Bella Ureta will dance Sunday December 3rd the Grand Pas de Deux, courtesy of 12pm and 4pm the Cincinnati Ballet, Artistic Director Dominican University Victoria Morgan. Also performing will Performing Arts Center be professional dancers from various 7900 West Division Chicago Dance Companies as well as River Forest, IL 60305 students from Legere Dance Centre To Purchase Tickets, Visit: and neighboring dance studios. www.balletlegere.org/tickets Ballet Légere is a non-profit For more Information contact us: organization which strives to provide an artistic cultural experience to • 773.237.1874 the surrounding community. Our • balletlegere@yahoo.com goal is to further the education of To make a donation, please visit: young dance students by offering balletlegere.org/support-us.

Special Advertising Section

November 8, 2023 13

E D U C AT I O N & E N R I C H M E N T G U I D E

Explorer

Explorer Explorer

Explorer Explorer Kiwanis Park 8820 Brookfield Ave, Brookfield IL

­

­

Kiwanis Park ­

8820 Brookfield Ave,

Kiwanis Park Brookfield IL

Kiwanis Park

Kiwanis Park 88208820 Brookfield Ave,

Brookfield Ave,

8820 Brookfield Ave, Brookfield IL

Brookfield IL Brookfield IL

Monthly Fieldtrips

Tuesdays & Monthly Thursdays Monthly Fieldtrips 9am-11am www.Brookfiledil.gov

For more information, go to www.brookfieldil.gov or call 708-485-1474

Fieldtrips

Tuesdays & Thursdays Tuesdays & 9am-11am

www.Brookfiledil.gov For more information, go to www.brookfieldil.govThursdays or call 708-485-1474

9am-11am

14

The Landmark, November 8, 2023

Commemorating a century of neighborly spirit North Riverside Players to host comedy show to close out village’s 100th birthday celebration

By JACKIE PISANO Contributing Reporter

In 1923, in a small, quiet corner of the Midwest nestled between the City of the Big Shoulders and vast forest preserves, the village of North Riverside was incorporated, setting the trajectory toward a century of life in the suburb which bills itself as “a small community with a big heart.”

At the end of July, the village celebrated 100 years in true North Riverside fashion — first, with a parade, then followed by live music, carnival games, hot food and fireworks on Des Plaines Avenue.

And now, just over three months after the big bash, the village’s beloved theater troupe, the North Riverside Players, is capping off the century celebration with a special Centennial Show.

In what could be considered a friendly roast of the village mixed with a lively pop culture walk down memory lane, on Nov. 11 and 12, the Players will be presenting a special historical production of music and history from 1923 through 2023.

The show, which was written by a committee of Players board members and actors, will feature a four-person scripted dialogue and 10 people singing and dancing on stage at a time. Alongside oral history and pictures cast on a screen on stage from across the years, the Centennial Shows will

wow audiences with its comprehensive coverage from the early years of the village (’20s through ’40s), boom years of North Riverside (’50s through ’70s), the explosion in retail and public facilities (’70s through ’90s), and the present and future.

With everything from historical back-

ground on where the land for village incorporation came from and the origins of the Riverside Golf Club, to reflections of memories from the nationally-renowned Melody Mill Ballroom (closed in 1984), opening of North Riverside Park Mall, groundbreaking of a new Village Hall, generational ties to Mater Christi Church

Growing Community Media a non-profit newsroom

and Komarek School and more, the goal of the production is not only to celebrate 100 years of North Riverside, but also fondly look back on the people and institutions which have made the village the unique western suburb that it is.

“There’s a lot of things that connect people to the Village of North Riverside,” said Bryant Rouleau, a lifelong resident and vice president of the Players.

“This show is based on how our schools, churches, the mall and other landmarks came about, and how properties have changed over time. Our goal is to highlight village events and sprinkle in cultural references through song as they relate to the time periods.”

Jeff Kasal, who grew up in North Riverside from the late ’60s through the ’80s, has been involved with the Players for over 25 years. He even participated in the group’s North Riverside 75th anniversary show back in 1998.

Though he now lives in St. Charles, his mother still lives in the house he grew up in on 13th Avenue, and he feels that staying involved with the Players is just another way of staying connected to the town which produced so many wonderful memories for him during his formative years.

“In the show, we talk about places and buildings, but people have lived in this

town for years — generations,” he explained. “You buy a house in this town, and don’t leave. The house my mother lives in was only seven years old when she bought it. My mother hangs around with people she’s known forever, and it’s a great, friendly town. Many people move here and stay here.”

Kasal says that for many families in North Riverside, something in the town continues to draw people back.

“People can always relate to the generational aspects of the village,” he said, “and I think the fact that the Players is doing this show will also help pique interest in the history of the village for younger, newer residents.”

Though longtime Players’ member Sue Matulionis grew up in neighboring towns, she said the process of learning about the history behind many North Riverside landmarks will be interesting for older generations to learn about and reminisce on.

“Not being from North Riverside but having lived nearby in Stickney and Berwyn, it’s interesting to know the history behind some of these places throughout history that we would go to or pass by back in the day,” she said. “I went to Melody Mill before it closed with my parents — they were dancers — and it’s been great to learn about it.”

The North Riverside Players Centennial Show will run Saturday Nov. 11 at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday Nov. 12 at 2:30 p.m. at Scheck Village Commons, 2401 S. Des Plaines Ave. Tickets are $10 each and can be purchased at nrplayers.com.

We’ve got YOU covered.

Donate today at RBLandmark.com/donate

The Landmark, November 8, 2023

15

Mole: Spicing up your Thanksgiving dinner

A

By DAVID HAMMOND Eats Blogger

n uncomfortable confession: I don’t much care for Thanksgiving dinner. Turkey day is a proud American tradition, and I’m fine with any celebration of food, family, and friends. I’m just not that enthusiastic about the traditional dinner.

The blandness of the turkey, sharpness of the cranberries, soggy bread stuffing, and pablum-like pumpkin pie, it’s just not for me.

One way I’ve tried to make a turkey dinner more interesting is to use a Native American sauce to liven things up. I’m talking about mole (moe-lay), which many believe to have been on this continent for centuries, prepared by the Aztec and other indigenous groups in Mexico.

“Mole” means sauce in Nahuatl, the language of the Aztec, still spoken by over 1.5 million people. Several food-related words in our vocabulary come from Nahuatl, including chocolate, avocado, tomato, and chili, all very popular foods, indigenous to Mexico.

Many types of mole are served in restaurants both here and in Mexico. Mole amarillo is a sauce tinted yellow with yellow chilies; mole coloradito is reddish because it uses tomatoes and red-tinted chiles; and mole verde is green because it’s made, in part, with green chiles and pumpkin seeds.

But there are many more kinds of moles.

If you’ve had mole in a restaurant, the odds are you had the dark mole negro, which contains an Olympian number of ingredients. We’ve made mole negro once and, as I recall, it required something like 27 ingredients. Ancient south-of-the-border peoples used spiced rather than sweetened chocolate, and mole negro mixes chocolate with several kinds of chiles and other spices for multiple dimensions of flavor.

At NRebozo (7403 Madison St., Forest Park), you can get a Fiesta Mole, six enchiladas with six different moles. Senor Paco told us, “We have forty moles, and all the recipes are mine,” adding that if you want a quart or so, he will sell you some to take home for Thanksgiving dinner.

If you want to make mole from a recipe,

you can’t go wrong with RickBayless.com, though be aware, even his “Mole for Beginners” contains almost 20 ingredients.

Lazy like me? Go to just about any Mexican grocery for a plastic container of mole paste that can be the foundation for the sauce. It’s usually pretty good, and there’s no shame in this hack: I’ve seen huge mounds of dried mole amarillo, negro, and others for sale at Mexico City’s massive Mercado de Sonora.

In Montezuma’s Aztec empire, mole was traditionally served with turkey, an indigenous sauce for an indigenous bird, and if you don’t put mole on the table for Thanksgiving, consider using some with leftover turkey. Instead of the traditional day-afterthanksgiving turkey-mayo sandwich, mix it up a bit: get some fresh tortillas (available almost everywhere, including Pete’s Market, 259 Lake St.), and make turkey tacos or enchiladas with mole.

November is Native American Heritage Month, and mole for Thanksgiving is a delicious way to recognize the enduring culinary contributions of indigenous peoples … and spice up the Thanksgiving table.

Courtesy of NRebozo

Six moles for six enchiladas at NRebozo

Ivins /Moravecek

Funeral Home & Cremation Services Family owned since 1885 David Moravecek - Owner Additional Suburban Chapel Locations Available Specializing in Pre Need & Veteran Care

80 E. Burlington St., Riverside (708) 447-2261 | www.ivinsfh.com

Golden Wok Restaurant 1122 N. Maple - 17th Ave. LaGrange Park • 708-354-3930 www.wok138.com

Finest Cantonese and Mandarin Food at reasonable prices.

TUES - SUNDAY: NOON - 8PM • CLOSED MONDAYS

Dining Room Is Currently Closed WE ARE OPEN FOR CARRY-OUT & DELIVERY

708-795-0700 Serving your Community Since 1982

Replace that old water heater!

Professional Installation www.Sullivans-Plumbing.com

50.00 OFF

$

Limit 1 coupon per Heater

7018 W. 16th St, Berwyn, IL 60402

16

The Landmark, November 8, 2023

Democracy Needs News.

News Needs YOU.

Donate to The Landmark.

A note from Erika Hobbs, our new editor Dear Readers, I am thrilled to be part of the Growing Community Media team and its four publications: Austin Weekly News, Wednesday Journal, Forest Park Review, and Riverside-Brookfield Landmark. Our work is important and I look forward to sharing our plans to grow our impact.

The stakes are high for local journalism across the country - and here at home. This fundraising campaign will set us up for a successful 2024 and ensure that we continue to provide authentic local news that can make a real difference in our communities.

I believe that journalism should serve the public interest. But we need support from folks like you to uphold that mission.

Vibrant communities depend on strong local news sources, and we need YOU to help us continue to deliver you highquality news and information.

Please help us by making a donation today.

Erika Hobbs Editor Growing Community Media

Support and donate here:

Opinion THE LANDMARK VIEW

I

Listening to Rashid

n a moment when it is extraordinarily hard to speak and harder still to listen to varied voices on the war in Israel and Gaza, our communities are represented in the Illinois legislature, in part, by State Rep. Abdelnasser Rashid, the first Palestinian American elected to state office in Illinois.

Rashid was at the White House last week, invited for his leadership on AI issues in Illinois, to the signing of an executive order by President Biden to put some guardrails around this technology.

While there, he told the Landmark, he spoke to White House officials — he did not share names — about his view that Biden must call for a cease-fire in this war. While Biden has called for “humanitarian pauses” to allow aid into Gaza and has urged Israel to be more cautious in its air and ground war to protect civilians in Gaza, he has not called for a cease-fire.

We have no fully formed opinion on this remarkably complex issue. We agree with Rashid and many others that there is not a military solution in this quagmire. And we believe that Hamas is a scourge that leveled an unconscionable attack on Israeli citizens while simultaneously adding to the oppression of Palestinians in Gaza.

Our point today is simple: We benefit from having diverse and thoughtful voices representing us. Rashid, who spent part of his childhood living in a Palestinian village in the Israeli-controlled West Bank, is such a voice. Let’s listen. Let’s learn. Let’s discuss in ways that move us closer, and not to hardened and extreme takes.

Collins’ urban forest

When considering the virtues of Riverside, do you start with Olmsted’s initial vision of open spaces and winding paths? Or with the wonderful homes that followed along those paths?

We’d suggest a third wonder of Riverside: Its urban forest.

Caring for the village’s 10,000 trees for two decades has been Michael Collins, the village forester. This is no passive process.

Managing an urban forest is an active endeavor and one at which Collins has excelled.

As we report this week, Collins will join the board of the Illinois Arborist Association this week at its annual conference. He will fill a role as a municipal director focused on the particular challenges of growing trees in an urban/suburban environment. Over his decades in Riverside, Collins has faced the challenges of the decimation of ash trees by the intrusive emerald ash borer, and the resulting push to diversify tree species. He has done an excellent job in welcoming resident participation in many aspects of his job and in that way spread an appreciation and respect for this forest.

Riverside is fortunate to have Collins’ leadership, and it is satisfying to see his talent recognized at the state level.

The Landmark, November 8, 2023

17

OBITUARIES

Andrew Horn, 76 Electrician Andrew G. Horn Jr., 76, of Brookfield, died on Nov. 1, 2023 in LaGrange Park.

Born on May 21, 1947 in Chicago, he was an electrician with IBEW Local 134.

Andrew was the father of Andy (Shelly) Horn, Elena (Don) Chadwell, Jason (Dawn) Horn, Jonathan (Kami) Horn, KaiteANDREW HORN lyn (Ismail) Assissel and Amy Horn; the grandfather of 19 and great-grandfather of 1.

Visitation was held on Nov. 7 at Johnson-Nosek Funeral Home, 3847 Prairie Ave., Brookfield.

Graveside service and interment will take place on Wednesday, Nov. 8, 11:30 a.m. at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery in Alsip. Family and friends are asked to meet at the cemetery office by 11:15 a.m. Online condolences, memories and photos may be shared with the family at www.JohnsonNosek.com.

Jay Deakin, 84 Mason, master rank Jay Henry Deakin, 84, formerly of Kingston, Tennessee and North Riverside, died on Nov. 1, 2023. Born on May 28, 1939, in Susquehanna, Pennsylvania, he was the son of the late Henry and Faye Deakin. He graduated from Susquehanna High School in 1957 and served in the U.S. Army before retiring from IBM after 30 years of service.

He was a member of Bradbury United Methodist Church in Kingston, and a dedicated Mason for 50 years in the Susquehanna PA Lodge, where he achieved master rank in 1969.

Jay was the husband of the late Jean M. (nee Mess); father of William Jon (Lisa Diehlmann) Deakin, Robert M. Deakin, and the late Jayese Marie Deakin; grandfather of Chloe A. Deakin, Ava L. Deakin, Henry S. Deakin, Annabelle H. Deakin, Isabella N. Neeley, and the late Johanna Deakin; brother of Lorraine Deakin Jackson, Jon H. Deakin, the late Winifred Deakin Matthews, and the late Carol Deakin Doerr; uncle of many nieces and nephews. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Cremation will be private.

Arrangements are being handled by KuratkoNosek Funeral Home, North Riverside. Online condolences, photos, and memories may be shared with the family at www.KuratkoNosek.com.

Annette Kozik, 88 Bookkeeper Annette Kozik, nee Barich, 88, of Brookfield and Boca Raton, Florida, died on Nov. 3, 2023. A graduate of Farragut High School, she was a longtime member and cook at Sts. Peter & Paul Evangelical Lutheran Church, Riverside and a member of St. Paul Lutheran Church, Boca Raton. She ANNETTE KOZIK worked as a bookkeeper for Water Refinement.

Annette was the wife of the late John Kozik; the mother of Susan (Kelly) Jones, James (Denise) Kozik and the late John Kozik; the grandmother of Sean Jones, Alison Jones, William Kozik and Claire Kozik; sister of the late Jerry (the late Rosemary) Barich; and the aunt and great-aunt of many nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be held on Nov. 7 from 3 to 8 p.m. at Hitzeman Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 9445 W. 31st St., Brookfield. The funeral service will be held at 11 a.m., Nov. 8 at Sts. Peter & Paul Lutheran Church, Corner of 31st Street and Des Plaines Ave., Riverside.

Private Inurnment will take place at Woodlawn Cemetery, Forest Park.

Memorials are appreciated to Sts. Peter & Paul Lutheran Church, 250 Woodside Road, Riverside, IL 60546 or the Alzheimer’s Association, 225 N. Michigan Ave., Floor 17, Chicago, IL 60601.

Information 708-485-2000 or www.HitzemanFuneral.com

Cecelia Straka, 83 Eucharistic minister, loved to dance Cecelia P. Straka (nee Stonesifer), 83, of Brookfield, formerly of Riverside, died on Oct. 31, 2023.

See OBITUARIES on page 20

18

The Landmark, November 8, 2023

Sports

Lions’ postseason run earns second in state

LTHS reaches 3A state finals for first time since 2009

By BILL STONE

Naperville North in Friday’s semifinals was their ninth consecutive victory.

Before that, the Lions won three playoff Even when the Lyons Township High games in which they trailed by one goal. At a School boys soccer team fell behind by brutally windy and occasionally snowy Mortwo goals during the first half of the ton Super-Sectional Oct. 31, they overcame Class 3A state championship game, Satur- three one-goal deficits before finally outlastday night, coach Paul Labbato knew the ing Stagg 4-3 by winning 8-7 in penalty kicks.

“Every team has really good soccer players Lions could rally.

“I had a lot of confidence,” Labbato said. but no one has the heart and grit that LT has.

“I truly believed we would get one in that I think that’s what got us this far,” LT senior second half, maybe a little earlier, to get it to Declan Kracker said.

“Everyone’s played for each other. Ever something that could come down to the end.”

The kings of comebacks this postseason since we lost to Proviso [West 2-1 Oct. 3], we did indeed score with 14:06 left as senior Ma- had some doubts. A lot of people were doubtson Santos converted off a right-wing corner ing us,” LTHS senior Haris Sarajlija said.

“We kind of tuned everyone out and we’re kick by junior Mason Burda.

But New Trier already had added another like, ‘We’re going to do this. We’re going to do goal and the result was a 3-1 loss to the Trev- it for each other.’ We did it. We made it this far and it’s surreal.” ians at Hoffman Estates High School.

Sullivan earned all-state honors from the The Lions (20-7-2) reached state for the first time since the 2009 state championship sea- Illinois High School Soccer Coaches Association after a great season playing center son in Labbato’s third year as head coach.

Their 1-0 victory over favored third-place defender and contributing numerous scoring threats with his long sidelines throw-ins.

Sarajlija and senior Owen Suda were allsectional, Kracker was all-sectional sportsmanship and senior Danny Svelnis was all-sectional academic. Senior Jimmy Brejcha, Sarajlija, Suda and Svelnis were All-West Suburban Conference Silver Division.

New Trier (23-1-2) won state for the first time since 2008 in its first downstate trip since losing to the Lions in the STEVE JOHNSTON 2009 state semifinals. The Lyons Township’s Declan Kracker (2) collides with New Trier’s Trevians avenged their lone loss by beating GlenCole Driscoll (11) during the Class 3A State Championship.

Contributing Reporter

STEVE JOHNSTON

Lyons Township’s Collin Sullivan (3) heads the ball past New Trier’s Aidan O’Neill (10) during the Class 3A State Championship Saturday, November 4, 2023 in Hoffman Estates. brook North 2-0 in the semifinals.

“After 2-0 at halftime, I’m looking at [our players] and saying, ‘Go get one and make this a game,’ and I wouldn’t be shocked if they could do it, but at the end New Trier did a great job,” Labbato said. “They were deserving champions. It was a pleasure to be out on the field with such a great team and put ourselves in that same exact class as a great team that had a chance.”

Against Naperville North (23-2-3), which started just two seniors, Suda scored his team-high 16th goal, 1:16 before halftime, by slipping home another Sullivan throw-in through the crease into the bottom right corner of the net. Sarajlija added 14 goals this season with a team-high nine assists.

Sullivan, who will play at Bucknell, returned for the postseason after missing the last six games of the regular season following an injury during the loss to Hinsdale Central on penalty kicks, Sept. 26-27.

Last postseason, Sullivan was injured

while LTHS lost to Hinsdale Central in the sectional semifinals.

“It doesn’t feel real, but this is the last time I get to wear LT gear. I’m happy with the impact we left with the program, the relationships that we built,” Sullivan said.

“Last year, not being able to play [postseason], and just watch some of my best friends play without me, it really sucked. I am blessed to finish it with them.”

Labbato said the team received an outpouring of alumni well wishes — and more recent Lions appearing throughout the playoff run.

“It’s hard to get back here, especially through the western suburbs, thinking back to all of the players between 2009 and now, that were pulling for us and what they would do to get to this particular point,” Labbato said.

“Then this group, a glimmer of amazing, just popped through. It’s just them. They have it inside of them and had it all year. They needed just this moment to come together.”

S P O R T S

The Landmark, November 8, 2023

19

Bulldogs’Vlcek returns to state with fast swims 2022 all-stater breaks two school records at sectional

By BILL STONE Contributing Reporter

Riverside Brookfield High School girls swimmer Hailey Vlcek is having a more challenging junior year, with harder classes and the start of college recruiting.

In the pool, though, things haven’t changed much. She’s once again headed to her third state meet with plenty of optimism and momentum. Vlcek qualified for state in the 200- and 100-yard freestyle and broke her school records in both at the Hinsdale Central Sectional Saturday.

The state meet is Friday and Saturday at the FMC Natatorium in Westmont. Last season, Vlcek became the first top-six, girls all-state swimming in RBHS history when she finished fourth in the 200 free (1:52.30). “[Sectionals has] definitely helped my mindset a lot. I think I just got into the zone and into a really good mindset,” she said. “I was just really excited going into the meet.

I was super-hyped up about everything and what I was swimming, and I was excited for the relays,” Vlcek said.

“I’ve been pretty happy with [the season]. It’s been a little bit difficult just balancing [swimming] with high school and [college] recruiting. For being so constantly exhausted, I’ve been really happy and I

STEVE JOHNSTON

Riverside-Brookfield’s Maria Ellis competes in the 100 Yard Butterfly during the Girls Swimming Sectional at Hinsdale Central Saturday, November 4, 2023 in Hinsdale. think being tapered now, it’s had a really good outcome for the hard work I’ve put in throughout the season.”

Sectional champions automatically qualify for state as well as entries who achieve state-qualifying standards at the meet. The Bulldogs (179 points) finished third behind state powers Lyons Township (318) and

Hinsdale Central (310) but had no other state qualifiers.

Vlcek won the 200 free in 1:51.18 to break her school and Hinsdale Central pool record of 1:51.78 from the 2022 sectional.

In the 100 free, Vlcek’s third-place 51.82 seconds broke her 52.41 record, also from last season.

This year at state, Saturday’s final round has been expanded to the top 16 times from Friday’s preliminaries versus 12 in past seasons. The top eight preliminary times compete for the state championship. The other eight compete for ninth through 16th.

Vlcek had the state’s No. 2 sectional time in the 200 and No. 16 in the 100.

“I want to try to get top three for my 200 free. Then for the 100 free, I really want to [make finals],” she said.

Last season, Vlcek also was 17th at state in the 500 free (5:08.60). This season, she switched back to the 100 free, where she was 20th (52.59) at 2021 state as well as 13th in the 200 free in a then-school record 1:52.71, only .32 from the top-12 consolation state finals.

“My 100 free improved a lot over the club season. My sprint’s gotten a bit better. I think I’m going to have a better chance of qualifying in finals,” she said.

“I’m just really, really looking forward to competing at state. I’m excited to race and also excited to just see a bunch of club friends, too, who I haven’t seen in a long time.”

Sophomore Maria Ellis was third in the 200 individual medley (2:10.54) with a 3.20-second drop from her seed time but just missed the 2:10.25 state cut.

Vlcek, Ellis, senior Emily Baartman and freshman Maggie McCoy were third in the 200 free relay (1:40.15) and 400 free relay (3:39.17) and missed state cuts of 1:39.08 and 3:36.89. The third-place 200 medley relay of Baartman, senior Caroline Strubbe, junior Audrey Simpson and senior Kathyrn Ryan (2:01.05) missed the 1:48.67 cut.

York’s last-second field goal thwarts Lions’inspired effort

LTHS football playoff hopes ended by WSC Silver rival

By BILL STONE Contributing Reporter

Senior four-year varsity player Eddie Tuerk and his Lyons Township football teammates reflected on numerous key moments after the 17-14 home loss to York in the Class 8A state playoffs Saturday.

They included the defense’s apparent fourth-quarter fumble recovery, tough ball spots, one more catch or first down, and simply not enough time. They add up to how much the Lions’ level of performance and expectations continue to rise after last year’s run to the state quarterfinals.

“I thought we came out as a team with more intent,” said Tuerk, a two-way lineman who will play at Illinois. “It seemed like every single senior was playing like it could be his last game and everyone was making plays, giving their best effort. The underclassmen were doing their best for us.

“It came down to the last couple of drives.

There were some calls that didn’t go our way, but that’s how it goes in high school football. You’ve got to make plays yourself.

The outcome’s terrible but in the end it was a successful season.”

The loss particularly stung because the Lions (7-4) played their West Suburban Conference Silver Division rivals much better than the 24-14 homecoming loss on Oct. 14.

But the Dukes (10-1) also showed why their senior class has only lost twice.

York regained possession at its 20-yard line with 6:00 left after an unsuccessful

41-yard field goal attempt by the Lions’ Tommy Newcomb.

The winning drive covered 67 yards in 17 plays. As time expired, York’s Damian Glodz kicked the game-winning, 30-yard field goal after missing a 41-yard attempt in the second quarter.

A 12-1 state semifinalist in 2022, York advances to the quarterfinals against Edwardsville (10-1), which beat Silver champion Glenbard West 48-14 Saturday.

“Our kids fought and battled. I don’t See FOOTBALL on page 20

20

S P O R T S

The Landmark, November 8, 2023

Marrs races to all-state honors for the third time

Senior is the first RB three-time boys cross country all-stater

By BILL STONE Contributing Reporter

Riverside Brookfield High School senior multi-sport standout Cooper Marrs soon will be worrying about fastballs exclusively.

In his final cross country race for the Bulldogs, Saturday, Marrs once again excelled against fast runners on a fast course. Marrs earned top-25 all-state honors for the third straight year by taking 19th in the Class 3A state meet at Peoria’s Detweiller Park.

“I consider myself an athlete,” said Marrs (14:40.21 for 3.0 miles), who will play college baseball at NCAA Division III Denison University (Granville, Ohio). “All of these guys work hard, just like me. It’s fun to try and do this and see how fast I can get in the three months I run for.”

Marrs previously was all-state twice in 2A. His fifth-place finish in 2022 led the Bulldogs to the school’s first state championship in any sport.

That is Marrs’ greatest cross country memory. Saturday, however, also was rewarding — a personal-best time after running 14:55.7 at Detweiller on Sept. 9.

“[The goal was] just a fast time really,” said Marrs. “I’m definitely proud of my time. Top 10 would have been nice, but a super-fast field. I’m not upset with where I finished at all.”

The Bulldogs were 21st, Saturday (456 points), and said goodbye to most of their state championship lineup.

Junior Brady Norman (106th, 15:28.51) was their No. 2 finisher, followed by senior Will Kallas (136th, 15:38.47), juniors Diego LopezMolina (145th, 15:43.04) and Asa Kahle (176th, 15:57.24), and seniors Jack O’Brien (197th, 16:07.25) and Brennan Lester (218th, 16:19.72).

Marrs, O’Brien (an all-state 16th in 2022), Norman, and Lester returned from the state championship lineup. Senior Hayden Marrs, Cooper’s brother, also ran at 2022 state but was sidelined all this season.

Cooper Marrs was four-time All-Metro Suburban Conference, O’Brien and Kallas were three times and Brennan and Hayden Marrs twice.

“The loss of our seniors will be huge,” RBHS coach Jack Brady commented.

“That’s a lot to replace.”

Besides being a standout baseball player in the spring, Cooper Marrs also has been on the boys swimming team. Even without year-round distance training, Marrs certainly has made his mark as the first threetime all-stater in program history. The Bulldogs’ three 2-time all-staters — Jim

OBITUARIES continued from page 20 Born on March 22, 1940, she was a Eucharistic Minister at St. Mary Church. She loved to garden, travel, and had a passion for music and dancing. Most of all, she loved spending time with her family.

Cecelia was the wife of the late Edward Straka; the mother of Renee Straka, Mark (Karen) Straka, Michael Straka, and the late Lisa (Mark) Simo; grandmother of Ryan and Shea Simo, Spencer and Tyler Lebegue, and Jason, Brendan and Emma Straka, and Brad and Alex Wahlgren; great-grandmother of Remy; sister of the late Donald Stonesifer; and the aunt of many nieces

and nephews.

Family and friends will be received at the Conboy-Westchester Funeral Home, 10501 W. Cermak Road, Westchester on Saturday, Nov. 11, for a memorial visitation from 9 a.m. until the chapel service at 11 a.m.

Interment is private.

Donations are appreciated to MakeA-Wish Foundation (www.wish.org) or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital (www.stjude.org).

Arrangements were handled by the Original Kuratko Family - Brian D. Kuratko, Funeral Director.

Keen, Mike Marks and John Unger — were top-10 finishers during the Bulldogs’ 197275 heyday when state cross country was just one class.

Marrs was 22nd at state in 2021, when he collapsed near the chute but recovered and finished just in time. His time Saturday would have finished fourth in the 2A boys race. Marion senior Dylon Nalley, the 2A

FOOTBALL Heartbreak from page 19 think we played great but we hung in there and had opportunities to win,” LTHS coach Jon Beutjer said.

“The last three years, York has been the standard for our conference. I was really proud of our team for how far they’ve come and fought. [Our seniors have] committed so much to our program. That’s why it’s so heartbreaking. We felt like that was a winnable game.”

On the game-winning drive, the Dukes converted a controversial fourth-andinches at their 29 and had a key 14-yard pass completion from quarterback Sean Winton to Chris Danko on third-and-8 to the Lions’ 43. They followed with seven running plays, two for nine yards.

The Lions nearly regained the ball earlier — twice.

On third-and-1 at the York 29, they recovered an apparent York fumble that instead was ruled down. On fourth-andinches, the Dukes barely converted and some LTHS defenders disagreed.

Coming off the sidelines, Beutjer said the officials refused his request for a measurement with the sidelines chains to confirm the first down.

“I guess what bothered me was I requested a measurement and I was denied,” Beutjer said. “When it’s a close game like that and both teams have worked so hard … why not measure it? It’s a big game.”

York scored first but LTHS took a 14-7 halftime lead on two leaping catches in coverage.

Jackson threw a 30-yard TD pass to Jack Cheney with 3:04 before halftime following a 40-yard TD pass to Jack McQueeney on the last scrimmage play of

champion, ran the fastest among all classes Saturday (14:05.20).

In his race, Marrs was seventh after one mile and 10th after two.

“Super stacked race, just happy to out with all-state,” Marrs said. “It was a tough race, to be honest. I felt myself slipping a little at the end there but just glad I could hang on enough to get all-state.” the first quarter. Newcomb kicked both extra points. “[Cheney and McQueeney] don’t get a lot of attention at receiver and it was nice to connect with them. They did a great job of stepping up when their number was called,” said Jackson, who passed for 143 yards. “I thought we played a pretty complete game.”

York tied the game 14-14 in the third quarter. On its final possession, LTHS reached the York 23. On third-and-11 at the 24, Jackson went to the end zone for top receiver Travis Stamm, who nearly made a leaping catch before Danko knocked the ball loose.

“For me, we were going for the win. We wanted to score [a TD] and put the pressure on them,” said Beutjer, also the offensive coordinator.

Tackle leaders on defense were Cheney and McQueeny (10 each), Luke Wehling (9, 2 for loss, sack) Tuerk and Patrick Cheney (7 each) and Danny Montesano and Roman Sosnovyy (6 each). Patrick Cheney and Tuerk combined on a 23-yard sack.

Wehling, who has broken his collar bone twice this season, played his first complete game since Week 2.

During the final drive, senior linebacker Noah Pfafflin injured his left knee, encouraging teammates while being helped off the field. Pfafflin broke his left wrist two days before the first York meeting but continued playing with the injury heavily padded.

“That’s the game, just things not going our way calls-wise that really hurt, but we gave it our all,” said the Colgatebound Pfafflin, scheduled for an MRI Tuesday.

“The leaders last year were such mentors to us and we kind of wanted to bring that this year. Next year’s guys know how to win. I think that this can be carried on. I’m glad that we were part of the way to help bring that forward.”

The Landmark, November 8, 2023 21

Deadline is Monday at 5:00 p.m.

HOURS: 9:00 A.M.– 5:00 P.M. MON–FRI

PART-TIME ELECTRICIAN’S HELPER

PART-TIME CIVILIAN CALL TAKER FOREST PARK, IL

Experience or not.

Call for more information.

708-738-3848

PARKING ENFORCEMENT OFFICER FOREST PARK, IL

The Forest Park Police Department is seeking Part-Time Parking Enforcement Officer(s); Shifts to be filled are 8:00pm – Midnight or Midnight – 6:00am. The position is a rotating schedule assigned by the Supervisor – 4 days on and 4 days off which includes weekends and some holidays. Eligible candidates will be required to pass an aptitude test and an extensive background check.

Qualifications include high school diploma (or equivalent), a valid driver’s license, knowledge of basic parking regulations, and good verbal and written skills.

Open until filled. Applications are available at Village Hall, 517 Desplaines Ave. or at www.forestpark. net and should be returned Attn: Vanessa Moritz, Village Clerk, Village of Forest Park, 517 Des Plaines Avenue, Forest Park, IL 60130. Email: vmoritz@forestpark.net IT SPECIALIST (CHICAGO, IL) Provide analysis & determine the School’s n/work & computer system needs; dsgn & support LAN & WAN routing & connectivity; monitor n/ work performance & review system & security logs; plan, coord, & implmt n/work security measures to protect data, s/ware & hardware; plan, sched, & test of new &/or upgraded s/ware, d/base and n/work systems.

Bach deg in IT, Comp Sci, or Info Security & 24 mos of F/T exp in the job or as IT Coordinator are reqd.

M-F, 40 hrs/wk. Send resumes (only by mail) to Alex Connell, Horizon Science Academy-Belmont, 2456 N Mango Ave, Chicago, IL 60639.

The Forest Park Police Department, seeks a Part-Time Civilian Information Management Call Taker. Eligible candidates will be required to pass an aptitude test and an extensive background check. Qualifications include high school diploma (or equivalent), good verbal and written skills, working knowledge of the computer and Windows, ability to type accurately, a good working knowledge of the English language, the ability to treat customers and co-workers in a polite manner and the ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines. Data entry skills and experience answering telephones/operating a switchboard are preferred.

EVENING AND OVERNIGHT HOURS ARE MANDATORY. Open until filled. $18.25/hour. Applications are available at Village Hall, 517 Desplaines Ave. and should be returned Attn: Vanessa Moritz, Village Clerk, Village of Forest Park, 517 Des Plaines Avenue, Forest Park, IL 60130. Email: vmoritz@forestpark.net

HOUSING PRGRAMS COORDINATOR

The Village of Oak Park is seeking qualified candidates for the position of Housing Programs Coordinator in the Neighborhood Services Department. This position is responsible for coordinating and participating in the more complex and difficult work of staff assigned to the Village’s single-family and multi-family rehabilitation, multi-family housing incentives programs, and lead programs; serves as a liaison between financial institutions, property owners, tenants and contractors; and performs a variety of technical tasks relative to assigned areas of responsibility. This position also supervises the community development/property maintenance inspector assigned to the rehabilitation program at the direction of the Neighborhood Programs Manager.

Applicants are encouraged to visit the Village of Oak Park’s website https:// www.oak-park.us/your-government/ human-resources-department. Interested and qualified applicants must complete a Village of Oak Park application.

R E N TA L S

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

OAK PARK & FOREST PARK

708-386-7355

MMpropMgmt.com

MARKETPLACE

TOOLS WANTED:

I want to buy all your old tools American tools, Wilton Vise, Wood working tools, Machinist tools.

Call, Justin C 708-822-8822 H 708-445-0164 NO TEXTS

CLASSICS WANTED CLASSICS WANTED Restored or Unrestored

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

Mustang & Mopars

$$E Top $$ allS makes, Etc. HOM SERV ICE

CLASSICS WANTED Collector James

Restored or Unrestored ELECTRICAL PAINTING Cars630-201-8122 & Vintage Motorcycles CLASSIC PAINTING A&A ELECTRIC Ceiling Domestic / Import Cars: Fast & Neat Fans Let an American Veteran do your work

Installed

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

Painting/Taping/Plaster

Mercedes, Porsche, Corvette, Repair Ferrari’s, Jaguars,Low Muscle Cars, Cost •708.749.0011 Mustang & Mopars

PETSEtc. $$ Top $$ all makes,

708-409-0988 • 708-738-3848

Collector James

Sr. Discounts • 30 Yrs. Exp. Servicing Oak Park • All surrounding suburbs • Chicago area

FLOORS KLIS FLOORING INC.

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

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

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

708-296-2060

Request of Catherine Mary Divane Case Number 2023 CONC001589.

Published in Wednesday Journal Oct 25, Nov 1, Nov 8, 2023

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

ELECTRICAL

must be mailed or delivered by the claimant to the representative within 10 days after it has been filed. E-filing is now mandatory for documents in civil cases with limited exemptions.

The court date will be held: On February 2, 2024 at 10:30 a.m. at Zoom Meeting ID: 95894921843 Passcode: 226532.

WANTED MILITARY ITEMS:

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

Call Uncle Gary 708-522-3400

PUBLIC NOTICES PUBLIC NOTICE OF COURT DATE FOR REQUEST FOR NAME CHANGE

There will be a court date on my Request to change my name from: Catherine Mary Divane to the new name of: Casey Catherine Mary Castle

CARS WANTED

WANTED TO BUY

PUBLIC NOTICES

STATE OF ILLINOIS, CIRCUIT COURT COOK COUNTY.

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

HELP WANTED

PUBLIC NOTICES

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

630-201-8122 FIREWOOD cat calls FIREWOOD UNLIMITED

Fast Delivery MIXED HARDWOODS CBH & MIX 100% OAK CHERRY OR HICKORY 100% BIRCH Seasoned 2 years Stacking Available

847-888-9999 Order online:

www. suregreen landscape.com

Credit Cards Accepted

Oak Park’s Original Pet Care Service – Since 1986

Daily dog exercising Complete pet care in your home House sitting • Plant care Bonded References

708-524-1030

WOODWORK

PUBLIC NOTICE OF COURT DATE FOR REQUEST FOR NAME CHANGE STATE OF ILLINOIS, CIRCUIT COURT COOK COUNTY. Request of Jason Issac Arroyo Case Number CONC001250 There will be a court date on my Request to change my name from: Jason Issac Arroyo to the new name of: Jason Issac Roth The court date will be held: On November 9, 2023 at 10:00 AM at Richard J. Daley Center, 50 W. Washington Street, Rm. 1702, Chicago, IL 60602 via ZOOM at ZOOM ID 986 9592 1385 Passcode 539505.

Zoom Call-In Number 312-626-6799 Published in Wednesday Journal Oct 25, Nov 1, Nov 8, 2023

PUBLIC NOTICES IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS, COUNTY DEPARTMENT, PROBATE DIVISION ESTATE OF RITA QUILLE, DECEASED. NO. 2023 P 007191 Notice is given to creditors of the death of the above named decedent. Letters of office were issued to BRIAN QUILLE, 1957 W RACE, CHICAGO, IL 60622, as Independent Executor. The estate will be administered without court supervision, unless under section 5/28-4 of the Probate Act (Ill. Compiled Stat. 1992, Ch. 755, par. 5/28-4) any interested person terminates independent administration at any time by mailing or delivering a petition to terminate to the clerk. Claims against the estate may be filed in the office of the clerk in Room 1202, Richard J. Daley Center, 50 W. Washington St., Chicago, IL, or with the representative, or both, on or before April 9, 2024, or, if mailing or delivery of a notice from the representative is required by section 5/18-3 of the Probate Act, the date stated in that notice. Any claim not filed on or before that date is barred.

Copies of a claim filed with the clerk

To e-file, you must first create an account with an e-filing service provider.

Visit Http://efile.illinoiscourts.gov/service-providers.htm to learn more and to select a service provider. If you need additional help or have trouble e-filing, visit http://www.illnoscourts.gov/FAQ/ gethelp.asp.

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

PUBLIC NOTICES SUMMONS (CITACION JUDICIAL) NOTICE TO DEFENDANT: (AVISO AL DEMANDADO): SHEKI D. WELCH, an individual and DOES 1 to 25 YOU ARE BEING SUED BY PLAINTIFF: (LO ESTÁ DEMANDANDO EL DEMANDANTE): EB HALEM, LLC d/b/a DRIVE LA, a California Liability Corporation NOTICE! You have been sued. The court may decide against you without your being heard unless you respond within 30 days. Read the information below.

You have 30 CALENDAR DAYS after this summons and legal papers are served on you to file a written response at this court and have a copy served on the plaintiff. A letter or phone call will not protect you. Your written response must be in proper legal form if you want the court to hear your case. There may be a court form that you can use for your response. You can find these court forms and more information at the California Courts Online Self-Help Center (www.courtinfo.ca.gov/selfhelp), your county law library, or the courthouse nearest you. If you cannot pay the filing fee, ask the court clerk for a fee waiver form. If you do not file your response on time, you may lose the case by default, and your wages, money, and property may be taken without further warning from the court.

There are other legal requirements.

You may want to call an attorney right away. If you do not know an attorney, you may want to call an attorney referral service. If you cannot afford an attorney, you may be eligible for free legal services from a nonprofit legal services program. You can locate these nonprofit groups at the California Legal Services Web site (www. lawhelpcalifornia.org), the California Courts Online Self-Help Center (www.courtinfo.ca.gov/selfhelp), or by contacting your local court or county bar association. NOTE: The court has a statutory lien for waived fees and costs on any settlement or arbitration award of $10,000 or more in a civil case. The court’s lien must be paid before the court will dismiss the case.

Terry's

¡AVISO! Lo han demandado. Si no responde dentro de 30 días, la corte puede decidir en su contra sin escuchar su versión. Lea la información a continuación.

and fiberglass since 1977.

Includes doors, woodwork, windows, staircases and new woodwork etc. All work done by hand. NO sanders. Your unfinished project my specialty!

References available.

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

Tiene 30 DÍAS DE CALENDARIO después de que le entreguen esta citación y papeles legales para presentar una respuesta por escrito en esta corte y hacer que se entregue una copia al demandante. Una carta o una llamada telefónica no lo protegen. Su respuesta por escrito tiene que estar en formato legal correcto si desea que procesen su caso en

Woodwork Restoration On-site refinishing of wood

22 The Landmark, November 8, 2023

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

la corte. Es posible que haya un formulario que usted pueda usar para su respuesta. Puede encontrar estos formularios de la corte y más información en el Centro de Ayuda de las Cortes de California (www. sucorte.ca.gov), en la biblioteca de leyes de su condado o en la corte que le quede más cerca. Si no puede pagar la cuota de presentación, pida al secretario de la corte que le dé un formulario de exención de pago de cuotas. Si no presenta su respuesta a tiempo, puede perder el caso por incumplimiento y la corte le podrá quitar su sueldo, dinero y bienes sin más advertencia.

PUBLIC NOTICES PUBLIC NOTICE OF COURT DATE FOR REQUEST FOR NAME CHANGE

Hay otros requisitos legales. Es recomendable que llame a un abogado inmediatamente. Si no conoce a un abogado, puede llamar a un servicio de remisión a abogados. Si no puede pagar a un abogado, es posible que cumpla con los requisitos para obtener servicios legales gratuitos de un programa de servicios legales sin fines de lucro. Puede encontrar estos grupos sin fines de lucro en el sitio web de California Legal Services, (www.lawhelpcalifornia. org), en el Centro de Ayuda de las Cortes de California, (www.sucorte. ca.gov) o poniéndose en contacto con la corte o el colegio de abogados locales. AVISO: Por ley, la corte tiene derecho a reclamar las cuotas y los costos exentos por imponer un gravamen sobre cualquier recuperación de $10,000 ó más de valor recibida mediante un acuerdo o una concesión de arbitraje en un caso de derecho civil. Tiene que pagar el gravamen de la corte antes de que la corte pueda desechar el caso.

CASE NUMBER: (Número del Caso): 23VECV00177 The name ad address of the court is: (El nombre y direccion de la corte es): Superior Court of California County of Los Angeles, Northwest District Van Nuys Courthouse 6230 Sylmar Avenue, Van Nuys, CA 91401 The name, address and telephone number of plaintiff’s attorney or plaintiff without an attorney is: (El nombre, la direccion y el numero de telfono del abogado el demandante, o demandante que no tiene abogado, es):

STATE OF ILLINOIS, CIRCUIT COURT COOK COUNTY Request of BILLY MICHAEL SMITH Case Number 2023 CONC001645 There will be a court date on my Request to change my name from: BILLLY MICHAEL SMITH to the new name of: CASEY WILLIAM STWEWART III The court date will be held: On January 25, 2024 at 9:30 a.m. on Zoom.

Zoom Meeting ID: 91404109299 Passcode: 407193 Published in Wednesday Journal November 1, 8, 15, 2023

PUBLIC NOTICES

PUBLIC NOTICES

Growing Community Media NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING ON THE FISCAL YEAR 2024 TENTATIVE ANNUAL BUDGET OF THE VILLAGE OF OAK PARK, COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS

A public hearing of the President and Board of Trustees (“Board”) of the Village of Oak Park, Cook County, Illinois, will take place on Monday, November 20, 2023 at 7:00 p.m. in the Council Chambers of Village Hall, 123 Madison Street, Oak Park, Illinois, regarding the Village of Oak Park tentative annual budget for the fiscal year beginning January 1, 2024 and ending December 31, 2024, at which time interested persons will be heard.

The tentative annual budget is available for public inspection prior

to the public hearing at the Office of the Village Clerk, Village Hall, 123 Madison Street, Oak Park, Illinois, during regular business hours from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. The hearing may be continued by the Board to another date at the public hearing by public announcement at the hearing setting forth the time and place thereof. The tentative annual budget may be revised and adopted by the Board without further notice or hearing.

Published in Wednesday Journal, November 8, 2023

LEGAL NOTICE The Village of Oak Park will receive sealed bids from qualified contractors at the Public Works Center, 201 South Boulevard, Oak Park, Illinois 60302 Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. local time until 3:00 p.m. on Friday, December 1, 2023, for the following: Village of Oak Park 2024 Emergency Fiber Optic Cable Repair Work Bid Number: 24-104

Published in Wednesday Journal November 8, 2023

Keith M. Davidson, Esq. (SBN212216) Tel: (323)658-5444 KMD Law 2629 Townsgate Road, Suite 205 Westlake Village, CA 91361 Date (Fecha): 3/20/2023 Clerk (Secretario): David W. Slayton, Executive Officer/ Clerk of Court

By Deputy (Adjunto): A. Salcdeo Published in Forest Park Review November 1, 8, 15, 22, 2023

a non-profit newsroom

We’ve got YOU covered.

Bid documents may be obtained from the Village’s website at http://www.oak-park. us/bid. For questions, please call Public Works at (708) 3585700 during the above hours.

Donate today at LEGAL NOTICE The Village of Oak Park will receive sealed proposals from qualified contractors at the Public Works Center, 201 South Boulevard, Oak Park, Illinois 60302 Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. local time until 3:00 p.m. on Wednesday, November 22, 2023 for the following: Village of Oak Park SCADA Integration Services Project Number: 24-107 Proposal documents may be obtained from the Village’s website at http://www.oakpark.us/bid.

For questions, please call Public Works at (708) 358-5700 during the above hours.

Published in Wednesday Journal November 8, 2023

Let the sun shine in...

Public Notice:

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

REAL ESTATE FOR SALE

REAL ESTATE FOR SALE

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT CHANCERY DIVISION WILMINGTON TRUST, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE, FOR THE BENEFIT OF THE HOLDERS OF BENCHMARK 2018-B1 MORTGAGE TRUST COMMERCIAL MORTGAGE PASS-THROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2018-B1 Plaintiff, -v.1120 RETAIL LLC, UNKNOWN OWNERS AND NON-RECORD CLAIMANTS Defendants 2020 CH 06119 1114-1126 LAKE STREET OAK PARK, IL 60301 NOTICE OF SALE PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above cause on September 28, 2023, an agent for The Judicial Sales Corporation, will at 10:30 AM on November 20, 2023, at The Judicial Sales Corporation, One South Wacker, 1st Floor Suite 35R, Chicago, IL, 60606, sell at a public sale to the highest bidder, as set forth below, the following described real estate: Commonly known as 1114-1126 LAKE STREET, OAK PARK, IL 60301 Property Index No. 16-07-119-0290000, 16-07-119-030-0000, AND 1607-119-031-0000 The real estate is improved with a mixed-use commercial / residential property.

The judgment amount was $16,499,313.09.

Sale terms: 25% down of the highest bid by certified funds at the close of the sale payable to The Judicial Sales Corporation. No third party checks will be accepted. The balance, in certified funds/or wire transfer, is due within twenty-four (24) hours. The subject property is subject to general real estate taxes, special assessments, or special taxes levied against said real estate and is offered for sale without any representation as to quality or quantity of title and without recourse to Plaintiff and in “AS IS” condition. The sale is further subject to confirmation by the court.

Upon payment in full of the amount bid, the purchaser will receive a Certificate of Sale that will entitle the purchaser to a deed to the real estate after confirmation of the sale.

The property will NOT be open for inspection and plaintiff makes no representation as to the condition of the property. Prospective bidders are admonished to check the court file to verify all information.

If this property is a condominium unit, the purchaser of the unit at the foreclosure sale, other than a mortgagee, shall pay the assessments and the legal fees required

by The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/9(g)(1) and (g)(4).

If this property is a condominium unit which is part of a common interest community, the purchaser of the unit at the foreclosure sale other than a mortgagee shall pay the assessments required by The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/18.5(g-1).

IF YOU ARE THE MORTGAGOR (HOMEOWNER), YOU HAVE THE RIGHT TO REMAIN IN POSSESSION FOR 30 DAYS AFTER ENTRY OF AN ORDER OF POSSESSION, IN ACCORDANCE WITH SECTION 15-1701(C) OF THE ILLINOIS MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE LAW.

You will need a photo identification issued by a government agency (driver’s license, passport, etc.) in order to gain entry into our building and the foreclosure sale room in Cook County and the same identification for sales held at other county venues where The Judicial Sales Corporation conducts foreclosure sales.

For information, contact ALEX PORTER, LATHROP GPM LLP Plaintiff’s Attorneys, 155 N WACKER DRIVE, SUITE 3000, CHICAGO, IL, 60606 (312) 920-3333.

THE JUDICIAL SALES CORPORATION One South Wacker Drive, 24th Floor, Chicago, IL 60606-4650 (312) 236SALE You can also visit The Judicial Sales Corporation at www.tjsc.com for a 7 day status report of pending sales.

ALEX PORTER LATHROP GPM LLP 155 N WACKER DRIVE, SUITE 3000 CHICAGO IL, 60606 312-920-3333 E-Mail: alex.porter@lathropgpm.com Attorney Code. 46500 Case Number: 2020 CH 06119 TJSC#: 43-3860 NOTE: Pursuant to the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, you are advised that Plaintiff’s attorney is deemed to be a debt collector attempting to collect a debt and any information obtained will be used for that purpose.

Case # 2020 CH 06119 I3231381

PUBLIC NOTICES

News

PUBLIC NOTICES

Local

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

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

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

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

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

GROWING COMMUNITY MEDIA

The Landmark, November 8, 2023

Your Heart is in the Right Place AdventHealth has partnered with UChicago Medicine to combine clinical excellence and whole-person cardiovascular care close to home. Our network of specialists offers the latest treatments for all types of cardiac and vascular conditions from the most common to the complex.

UChicago Medicine’s Cardiac Surgery team now provides all cardiovascular surgery services. This team of renowned heart surgeons performs a full range of heart procedures, helping patients return to active and fulfilling lives.

With leading-edge technology in our hands and compassion in our hearts, we’re moving heart and vascular care forward in the western suburbs.

©2023 UCM-AH AH-843

Stay healthy and schedule a heart screening today.

ChicagolandHeartExperts.com

23

24

The Landmark, November 8, 2023

2 1 E . B U R L I N GTO N R OA D, R I V E R S I D E | 70 8 . 4 47.72 07 G IN M CO

ON SO W NE

116 E Quincy St, Riverside $425,000

G TIN S I L

2321 Scoville Ave, Berwyn $380,000

D OL S ST JU

380 Herrick Rd, Riverside $375,000

D OL S ST JU

125 Woodside Rd, Riverside $590,000

W NE

E IC PR

1347 Cuyler Ave, Berwyn $425,000 AL CI R E MM O C

302-306 River Oaks Dr, Calumet City $300,000

1425 Ashland Ave, River Forest $1,125,000

69 Longcommon Rd, Riverside $189,900

10 S Wille St, #309, Mount Prospect $225,000

7722 Madison St, River Forest $18/sq ft

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

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

EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY