RIVERSIDE-BROOKFIELD Also serving North Riverside $1.00
Vol. 35, No. 37
September 9, 2020
Tobolski guilty Former county commissioner pleads to extortion charge PAGE 3
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Brookfield manager hires new community development director PAGE 7 Ames School students, teachers christen renovated building PAGE 12
North Riverside mayor acts to change fire chief
A year later, no word on missing Brookfielder
Surprise move brings in Forest Park’s McDermott to lead department
Police chief says detectives continue to pursue investigation
By BOB UPHUES Editor
By BOB UPHUES Editor
Later this month will mark one year since 53-year-old Brookfield resident Erica Thompson went missing. The last time she was seen alive was on the afternoon of Sept. 25, 2019, when a security camera captured her making a bank deposit in the Eight Corners business district, not too far from her home in the 9200 block of ERICA THOMPSON Monroe Avenue. During the early hours of the following morning, according to police, her cellphone traveled through several neighboring towns, including Countryside, See THOMPSON on page 11
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PROVIDED
WAITING: Michael Russo sits on the front stoop of his mother’s home in Brookfield. It’s been nearly year since Erica Thompson disappeared, and police are still trying to locate both her and her car.
North Riverside Fire Chief John Kiser resigned from his post Sept. 3, paving the way for the village to hire Bob McDermott, who is retiring from a 32-year career as a firefighter in Forest Park at the end of the month. McDermott, 53, a Forest Park native and Nazareth Academy graduate who lives in LaGrange Park, was elevated to fire chief in Forest Park in 2016 after 11 years as deputy chief. He started his career as a full-time firefighter there in 1988. McDermott, who will split his time between North Riverside and Forest Park through the end of September, reported for his first day in North Riverside on Sept. 4. “The timing could not have been more perfect,” said McDermott, who said it was time for him to leave the firehouse that’d been his second home for three decades. “I’ve been either deputy chief or chief in Forest Park for the past 17 years, and I think there comes a point where organizations are ready for a change,” McDermott said. “I think Forest Park is ready for a change.” See FIRE CHIEF on page 13
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S P O N S O R E D
C O N T E N T
Berwyn Eats is celebrating Cermak but for nearly 50 years authenticity has been a key ingredient in every dish served at the cornerstone establishment. Roast duck, Hungarian goulash and breaded There is a pork tenderloin are among the most popular restaurant suited to dishes, but Czech Plaza also serves many beloved curb just about any yet lesser known Czechoslovakian dishes. craving on Cermak Czech Plaza’s version of Svíčková -- sliced Road in Berwyn. tender beef roast with creamy vegetable gravy Michaela Chromeckova helms the kitchen at Czech Plaza and brings thirty years of With the annual and bread dumplings -- is served with a bit of cooking experience to the plate. Taste of Cermak cranberry sauce, fresh whipped cream and lemon event canceled due as tradition dictates. The rich gravy is a decadent Italian treat? Anthony’s Pizza, 6237 Cermak Rd., to COVID concerns, treat well-suited to snuggling up with both the has been serving up pizza slices and other Italian fare for 34 years. it has become more bread dumplings and tender beef. The unassuming shop relies important than “Our Svíčková is on foot traffic and top pizzas ever to show some just like my grandma with quality ingredients like love to the array of made,” said Czech Grande cheese and house made restaurants scattered Plaza owner Monika throughout “The Hubackova. “We go red sauce to keep pies flying Corridor.” out the door. Pizza may be the through at least two star of the show, but according “Some people might pots every day.” to Anthony’s manager and see it as a hodgepodge Hubac k o v a co-owner Anthony Cosmano, of restaurants,” and Chromekova there’s another dish worthy of said Erika Corona never cut corners. recognition. Owens, division Everything Czech Plaza’s version of Svíčková from director of chamber the liver dumpling “Our pizza is unique services at the soup to the authentic because of the combination a seafood fix should swing by Las Islas, 6516 Berwyn Development kolacky are house of crust, sauce and cheese,” Cermak Rd. The independent restaurant was Corporation. “But made at Czech Plaza. said Cosmano. “People might once part of a larger restaurant group but coyou can really The labor-intensive not realize our Italian beef owner Angelica Gonzalas takes pride in her see the history of approach pays off sandwich is one of the best establishment’s approach to seafood preparation. Berwyn reflected in in food quality, but Looking for a beertail? Check out the things on our menu.” A generous outdoor patio welcomes guests to the restaurants on value still abounds at Las Islas michelada Seasoned, thinly sliced roast Cermak.” order a refreshing michelada to enjoy alongside Food Writer the restaurant. Pop beef simmered tilapia ceviche and serrano chili salsa. The spicy Berwyn remains by to show support in jus, or gravy, tomato juice-based beer cocktail spiked with lime proud of its rich for one of the last is piled high and rimmed with tamarind paste is Las Islas’ Czech history, and no restaurant on Cermak bohemian restaurants on an Italian embraces Bohemian fare and a sense of nostalgia in Chicagoland. roll and stuffed signature drink. as earnestly as Czech Plaza, 7016 Cermak Rd. A Just like the michelada, people eagerly order with peppers. Looking for an newly constructed bar is attracting customers, A n t h o n y ’ s langostinos. The small crustaceans -- much beef sandwich smaller than a lobster and larger than a crawfish recipe goes – are served in the shell for an indulgent handsback as far as on eating experience. the sandwich “The langostinos are special because of the does in spice blend we use on them,” said Gonzalas. “The The banana split from La Michoacana Classic C h i c a g o only person who truly knows the recipe is my history. Purists husband, Noe. We have many requests to bottle topped with pecan, pistachio and pine nut ice will appreciate up the spices and sell them.” cream. A n t h o n y ’s No matter if you have filled up on Bohemian classic take on fare, Italian beef or an array of Mexican seafood, this iconic and no visit to Cermak Road is complete without a slightly messy sweet treat from La Michoacana Classic, 6533 sandwich. Cermak Rd. Cermak An assortment of ice cream, paletas and fruit Road is no drinks entice guests and draw repeat customers. stranger to Bring a pal to share their beasty banana split next its fair share time you find yourself on Cermak. of well-loved Happy Eating! Me x i c a n restaurants, Langostinos are a signature dish at Las Islas in Anthony’s pizza peddles a memorable Chicago-style Italian • Discover more amazing Berwyn delights but folks looking for Berwyn at OakParkEats.com/berwyn-eats Beef Sandwich.
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The Landmark, September 9, 2020
Ex-county commissioner pleads guilty to extortion
Jeffrey Tobolski admits taking more than $250,000 in shakedown payments By BOB UPHUES Editor
Jeffrey Tobolski, the former Cook County commissioner and mayor of McCook, pleaded guilty in U.S. District Court in Chicago on Sept. 1 to charges of extortion and filing a false tax return. Tobolski entered his plea via video to Judge Harry D. Leinenweber. According to Tobolski’s plea agreement, the former mayor and county commissioner accepted bribe and extortion payments totaling more than $250,000 from more than five people, including a local restaurateur who was JEFFREY TOBOLSKI granted permission to use what the plea agreement describes as “McCook-owned property” to host events where alcohol was served. The McCook-owned property appears to be a reference to The MAX, a 150,000-squarefoot athletic and special events facility on 47th Street owned by the village of McCook. In 2013, according to the plea agreement, Tobolski signed a five-year deal allowing the businessman, identified as Individual A, to operate an establishment at the villageowned property. Tobolski, who was also McCook’s liquor commissioner, signed off on a liquor license for the business. Three years later, the business owner requested permission to host events involving the sale of alcohol at his establishment. At that time, according to the plea agreement, Tobolski conspired with a McCook police officer to shake down the business owner for cash payments in exchange for that permission. In all, Individual A shelled out nearly $30,000 in bribes/extortion payments, according to the plea deal. In addition, the plea
agreement notes a second extortion victim, referred to as Individual B, who paid $47,000 to Tobolski. Tobolski also pleaded guilty to filing a false tax return for the year 2018, stating his income was $214,270. According to the plea agreement, Tobolski’s actual income that year was at least $279,668, more than $10,000 of which came from bribes. The plea deal also states Tobolski filed false tax returns for seven consecutive years, beginning with tax year 2012. Tobolski, who represented North Riverside and Brookfield when he served on the Cook County Board, faces a maximum of 20 years in prison for pleading guilty to the extortion charge. Pleading guilty to the charge of filing a false tax return carries a possible prison sentence of up to three years. Tobolski faces fines of up to $500,000. Sentencing guidelines referred to in the plea agreement state Tobolski could face a prison term of between 11.25 and 14 years. However, according to the plea deal, Tobolski has agreed to fully cooperate with prosecutors in their ongoing, wide-ranging probe of political corruption in Chicago and its suburbs. As a result, his sentence could be reduced by the judge. Sentencing guidelines are not binding. Sentencing will be delayed until Tobolski’s cooperation with federal prosecutors either ends or is no longer necessary. He remains free after posting a $10,000 bond Sept. 1. Tobolski’s village offices and home were raided by federal agents in September 2019, part of a series of coordinated raids. That same day, federal agents raided the home as well as village and business offices of Lyons Village President Christopher Getty, who
has not been charged with any wrongdoing. Just days earlier last September, federal agents raided the offices of former state Sen. Martin Sandoval. In January, Sandoval pleaded guilty to taking $70,000 in bribes in exchange for serving as the red-light camera industry’s “protector” in the state Senate and taking more than $250,000 in bribes in total. One of Tobolski’s political allies, his former county chief of staff Patrick Doherty, was indicted in February for his alleged role in a bribery scheme to influence an Oak Lawn trustee to support extending a contract with the red-light camera company SafeSpeed LLC. A former SafeSpeed LLC executive, Omar Maani, faces charges – filed Aug. 31 in a federal criminal information document – of conspiring with Doherty to pay money in 2017 to an Oak Lawn trustee’s relative to influence the trustee’s vote on extending SafeSpeed’s contract in that town. Doherty worked as a “consultant” for the red-light camera company, getting a small cut of ticket revenue the company collected. Maani was set to be arraigned on Sept. 4. At that hearing, held via teleconference, Maani admitted to conspiring to bribe the Oak Lawn official, but the government agreed to defer prosecution for two years in exchange for Maani’s “good conduct.” Maani remains free after posting a $10,000 personal recognizance bond. Tobolski announced he was resigning as McCook mayor and as county commissioner on March 6, the same day a second political ally, William Helm, was indicted. Prosecutors charged Helm with charged Helm with giving more than $5,000 in bribes to Sandoval to influence approval of a road construction project in East Dundee.
Tobolski could face
between 11.25 and 14 years in prison, but he is cooperating with federal prosecutors.
IN THIS ISSUE Calendar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4 Crime . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5 Classified . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17 Kosey Corner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14 Opinion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14 Obituaries. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15
Editor Bob Uphues Sports Editor James Kay Food Editor Melissa Elsmo Staff Photographer Alex Rogals Design/Production Manager Andrew Mead Designers Javier Govea, Mark Moroney Debbie Becker Sales and Marketing Representatives Marc Stopeck, Lourdes Nicholls Sales & Development Mary Ellen Nelligan Circulation Manager Jill Wagner E-MAIL jill@oakpark.com
Publisher Dan Haley Business Manager Joyce Minich
Growing Community Media BOARD OF DIRECTORS Chair Judy Greffin Treasurer Nile Wendorf Gary Collins, Darnell Shields, Sheila Solomon, Eric Weinheimer
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The Landmark, September 9, 2020
BIG WEEK
September 9-16
And more Riverside Arts Center, 34 E. Quincy St., presents “Still,” featuring the work of Jerry Bleem through Oct. 17. The exhibit is a continuation of Bleem’s extended series “Nationalism,” begun in response to the 2003 U.S. invasion of Iraq. Masks and social distancing required. Visit riversideartscenter.com for more information. RB Young Life hosts its annual golf outing Sept. 28 at Mistwood Golf Club in Romeoville with a 1 p.m. shotgun start. The funds raised at the outing will support the mission of Young Life in the local community. Minimum donation of $150 will cover the cost of 18 holes of golf, cart, boxed lunch, 2 drink tickets, dinner and swag bag. Register at riversidebrookfield.younglife.org. Questions? Email Chesleigh Jarrett at chesleigh@ylchicago.com. The Riverside Farmers Market is open for business every Wednesday from 2:30 to 7 p.m. in Centennial Park – in the shadow of the village’s downtown water tower at 10 Pine Ave. – through Oct. 7. For more info, visit riverside.il.us/369/Farmers-Market. The Brookfield Farmers Market continues through Oct. 10 every Saturday from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the parking lot of the Brookfield Village Hall, 8820 Brookfield Ave. For details, visit their website at brookfieldfarmers.org. North Riverside Public Library is offering the following virtual programs through Facebook Live, conference calls and the teleconferencing app Zoom. Programs include Makerspace Mondays on the first and third Mondays of the month at 7 p.m. and Talented Tuesdays on the second and fourth Tuesdays of the month at 5:30 p.m. both via Facebook Live on North Riverside Public Library’s Facebook page; Game Night Wednesdays every Wednesday at 7 p.m. via Zoom; Crafternoon: Jumbo Lawn Mushrooms via Zoom on Sept. 12 at 1:30 p.m. (register at least 3 days in advance to pick up materials curbside); and Stretching and Meditation on Sept. 14 at 6:30 p.m. via conference call (800-747-5150, code 1453322). RSVP to bodenl@northriversidelibrary. org or visit northriversidelibrary.org/events for all Zoom meeting access info. Brookfield Public Library offers virtual classes and programs for patrons of all ages throughout the week. Most youth activities will be presented live on the library’s Facebook page at facebook.com/BrookfieldPublicLibrary. For adults, there’s Chair Yoga via Zoom on Sept. 10 at 11 a.m.; Now You’re Speaking Their Language: Communicating Across the Generations via Zoom on Sept. 11 at noon; and Children Coping in a COVID World with professional counselor Rachel Rivera on Sept. 12 at 2 p.m.; and Remote Learning 101 to learn about resources to support your child’s e-learning on Sept. 16 at 7 p.m. Register for Zoom access info by visiting brookfield.evanced.info/signup. The Riverside Public Library, 1 Burling Road, will resume its in-person Riverside Reads book club on Sept. 15 at 2 p.m. with discussion of “The Overstory” by Richard Powers. Visit the library’s website at riversidelibrary.org, Call 708-442-6366 or email informationservices@riversidelibrary.org to place a hold on a copy of the book. For kids, there’s Virtual Storytime via Zoom on Sept. 11 at 10 a.m. Visit riversidelibrary.evanced.info/signup/ calendar for the link. ■
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You can hear Class of 1990 grads John Lynch (left) and Dave Juday, who later went on to work for ESPN Radio Chicago for 20 years during Friday Night Lights Classics.
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Virtual Friday Night Lights
High school football and boys soccer may be on hold this fall, but you can relive glorious victories of autumns past every Friday night at 7 p.m. by tuning into Lyons Township High School’s radio station WLTL (88.1 FM) for “Friday Night Lights Classic Games.” The station will air classic broadcasts of football and soccer games, including a first-round IHSA playoff victory in 2012 featuring LTHS grad and Philadelphia Eagles Super Bowl championship kicker Jake Elliott, the 2010 soccer team’s state semifinal and finals victories, the 2014 homecoming football game versus Downers Grove North as well as broadcasts and highlights from the 1970s and 1980s.
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Fleetwood Mac: The Chain … Broken Brookfield Public Library invites you to learn about the rise of the renowned rock ‘n’ roll band Fleetwood Mac and their journey of failed relationships that fueled an amazing musical career during “Fleetwood Mac: The Chain … Broken” on Monday, Sept. 14 at 7 p.m.
NIC STONE
New book club in North Riverside
North Riverside Public Library invites patrons to explore the history of inequality and civil rights in America through a mixture of fiction and non-fiction by taking part in the new Deeply Rooted Book Club, which will meet for the first time on Thursday, Sept. 10 at 6:30 p.m. The book for the club’s first meeting is “Dear Martin” by Nic Stone. The club will meet via Zoom. Register and get meeting access info by emailing Lizzy Boden at bodenl@northriversidelibrary.org or by visiting northriversidelibrary. org/events.
Gary Wenstrup will trace the history of the band, which launched in the mid-1960s, achieved monumental success in the mid-1970s and still makes headlines today. Using interview and performance video, Wenstrup will follow the band’s career with a focus on their blockbuster album “Rumours” and the band’s classic line up of Stevie Nicks, Lindsay Buckingham, Christine McVie, John McVie and Mick Fleetwood. Visit the library’s website brookfieldlibrary.info to register and obtain access info.
Medal of Honor recipient is guest speaker Riverside American Legion Post 488 soldiers during a firefight and then defended them single-handedly against invites the community to enjoy a special attack until they could be evacuated. presentation on Friday, Sept. 11 featuring guest speaker Al Lynch, a U.S. Army vetHe was awarded the Medal of Honor eran who was awarded a Medal of Honor for gallantry in action from President for his actions during the Vietnam War. Richard Nixon in 1970. Lynch, the author of “Zero to Hero: The program will begin at 6 p.m. From Bullied Kid to Warrior,” grew up on and the general public can watch a AL LYNCH Chicago’s South Side and enlisted in the livestream on the Riverside American Army in 1964. While serving with the 1st Legion Post’s Facebook page at facebook. Cavalry Division in December 1967, he rescued three com/AmericanLegionRiverside.
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The Landmark, September 9, 2020
P O L I C E
R E P O R T S
Alzheimer’s patient dies after going missing An 82-year-old man suffering from Alzheimer’s disease, who walked away from his Riverside home in July before being found safe in a Berwyn park, died Sept. 1 after walking away again and suffering a heart attack at an Oak Park hospital. A family member reported the man missing from his residence in the 400 block of Herrick Road on Aug. 31 at about 9:20 p.m. Police searched for him in the immediate area using a bloodhound and in Proksa Park in Berwyn, where he was found after walking away from home in July. Unable to find him nearby, Riverside police contacted surrounding agencies about the missing man. Chicago police later notified Riverside that they had located the man in the 1400 block of North Parkside Avenue in Chicago. Officers had been called there for a report of a burglary in progress, but quickly observed the elderly man was confused. Chicago paramedics transported him to West Suburban Medical Center in Oak Park. On Sept. 1 at 4:40 p.m., Riverside police learned the man had gone into cardiac arrest while in the emergency room at the hospital and died.
Alleged package thief arrested Brookfield police charged a 42-year-old Brookfield man with theft after he allegedly stole a package from the front porch of a home in the 9200 block of Monroe Avenue, placed it in the basket of a tricycle-style adult bike and then pedaled away on Aug. 31 at about 5:05 p.m. The victims told police they had been notified that a Yeti cooler valued at about $215 had been delivered to their home at about 1 p.m. that day. Someone who witnessed the theft called police, who observed a man matching the description of the suspect, along with a tricycle parked nearby, at a residence nearby in the 3400 block of Madison Avenue. Police didn’t recover the cooler, but the witness identified the suspect as the alleged offender and police took him into custody at about 5:40 p.m.
Cops: Drunk man enters former home Riverside police charged a 49-year-old Berwyn man with criminal trespassing on the evening of Sept. 2 after he reportedly walked into a house in the 100 block of East Burlington Street and was wrestled to the ground by the homeowner who held him down until officers arrived. Initially, the call came in at about 5:55 p.m. as a home invasion. The man allegedly entered the home through the rear door and was confronted in the kitchen by the homeowner, who held him down on the floor until police arrived. Police responding to the scene reported that that man was extremely intoxicated and learned that he had lived at the East Burl-
ington Street address several years ago. He was so drunk, said police, that he returned to the house, believing he still lived there, forcing his way through the back door. Riverside police said the man had been arrested 26 times previously.
Suspicious fire Investigators are still trying to determine the cause of a suspicious fire that destroyed part of a wood fence and damaged some vinyl siding to a home in the 9000 block of 27th Street in Brookfield during the early morning hours of Sept. 3. A neighbor getting ready to go to work at about 4:15 a.m. told police he noticed flames and smoke coming from the west side of the residence. At first the neighbor thought it might be a bonfire, but upon closer inspection he observed a section of the fence on fire and immediately knocked on his neighbor’s door to alert him. The homeowner had doused the fire before emergency personnel arrived, but not before part of the fence was destroyed and siding on his home damaged. The homeowner told police that there were trash and recycling bins next to the fence, but that nothing in them was flammable.
Vehicle break-ins Brookfield police responded to the 4200 block of Madison Avenue on the morning of Sept. 3 after a resident called to report that someone had entered two unlocked vehicles parked in the driveway of his home overnight. Both vehicles were ransacked, with items strewn about the interior. The only things reported missing were a pair of sunglasses, cellphone cords and an owner’s manual.
Bricks through windows A resident of the 3600 block of Blanchan Avenue called police at about 4:10 a.m. on Sept. 3 to report that someone had just thrown something through the windows of his home. A police officer who was in the vicinity checked the area for suspects, but was unsuccessful. He then spoke to the homeowner, who showed him the two broken windows. While investigating, the officer reported observing four landscaping bricks underneath the damaged windows. They had been removed from the landscaping in the front yard. The victim told police he had no idea who would do such a thing to his home. These items were obtained from police reports filed by the Riverside, North Riverside and Brookfield police departments, Aug. 31-Sept. 4, and represent a portion of the incidents to which police responded. Unless otherwise indicated, anybody named in these reports has only been charged with a crime. These cases have not been adjudicated.
— Compiled by Bob Uphues
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Riverside chief seeks state’s help on health response teams With calls for mental health and related responses mounting, alternative to police needed By BOB UPHUES
“It’s well worth discussing and putting forth as a policy proposal in the broader discussion on police reform and accountability,” Following up on his call to create health Zalewski said in an email to the Landmark. “I response teams as a way to limit police in- see it having two [areas] of value: helping devolvement in emergency calls involving those escalate situations where police must respond suffering from mental health issues or under- to a person suffering from mental illness, and going other non-criminal crises, Riverside potentially freeing up police manpower rePolice Chief Thomas Weitzel has sent a letter sources so that they can be more flexible in to Illinois Gov. J.B Pritzker, Lt. Gov. Juliana responding to criminal activity.” Crisis response teams are not a new idea, Stratton and state Rep. Michael Zalewski (DRiverside) asking them to support legislation but they may now be getting a broader look to make those teams – and funding for them after a summer of protest nationwide against police brutality following the -- a reality. death of George Floyd at the hand In his Aug. 28 letter, Weitzel of Minneapolis police in May and stated that police are not always the police shooting of Jacob Blake adequately prepared to address in Kenosha in August. situations involving psychiatric Reporter Juliet Isselbacher patients or those in need of menexamined the concept of mental health evaluations. tal health crisis response teams “We need to do more than just in a July 29 article in the online transport people to area hospitals healthcare journal Stat. for psychiatric evaluations,” WeitIsselbacher pointed to a Euzel wrote. “That itself is a revolvgene, Oregon, program called CAing door.” HOOTS (Crisis Assistance HelpIn a telephone interview last ing Out on the Streets), which has week, Weitzel said that even if existed since 1989, and a new inithere’s no interest in pursuing tiative in Denver called Support legislation at this time, perhaps Team Assisted Response (STAR). the governor could enlist a blueTHOMAS WEITZEL CAHOOTS is run by an orgaribbon panel of police, fire/EMS Riverside police chief nization called the White Bird and health professionals to craft Clinic and funded in part by the a strategy that could result in acEugene Police Department. STAR tion statewide. is funded by the Caring for Denver “I believe the general public Foundation and has been rolled will support the funding of [such out as a pilot program. a program],” Weitzel said. Both employ crisis teams conWeitzel pointed as an example of the value of health response teams to a case sisting of a paramedic and a mental health revealed last week involving 41-year-old Dan- professional who are dispatched to respond iel Prude, a Chicago resident, who died after to calls, according to Isselbacher, for “welfare being released from police custody in Roches- checks, emergency counseling, suicide assessments or nonviolent conflict resolution.” ter, New York, in March. Prude, who reportedly suffered acute men- Those teams also can connect patients with tal health and drug problems, died of asphyxia resources they need. While there are times the crisis response after being hooded, pinned to the ground and handcuffed by about a half dozen police offi- teams need police assistance, more often than cers who responded to a 911 call from Prude’s not they operate without it. According to Isselbacher’s report, in 2019 CAHOOTS responded brother seeking help for Daniel. After being pinned to the ground for about to 24,000 calls but only requested police backthree minutes, Prude reportedly had stopped up 150 times. The issue of funding crises response teams breathing; paramedics performed CPR at the scene to restart his heart. Prude died in a hos- is central to their effectiveness, which is why pital after a week on life support. The county Weitzel has asked for state government’s help. medical examiner ruled Prude’s death a ho- But there could be other sources of funding, Weitzel acknowledged, including direct local micide. “It’s obviously something that clearly needs funding or something like diverting police seizure funds toward such a program. to change,” Weitzel said. “These calls are taking more and more of Zalewski said he supported the idea of crisis response teams as an alternative to send- our time,” Weitzel said. “We need to find a ing police to handle calls involving mental way for true mental health professionals to respond, instead of police.” health issues. Editor
“I believe the general public will support the funding of [such a program].”
The Landmark, September 9, 2020
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Veteran planner hired as Brookfield building dept. chief New community development director comes after 4-year stint in Joliet
By BOB UPHUES
When the state shut most businesses down in March, Joliet, a city of nearly 150,000 people, lost revenue from its three casinos and For the past four years, Michael Schwarz other sales tax producing businesses. He led a planning division of about five has overseen the planning initiatives of one of the state’s largest cities. But, as of Sept. 8 people, small enough that he remained he’s the new community development direc- hands on despite his supervisory role. “I was not only a manager but tor of Brookfield. a player,” said Schwarz, who deSchwarz, who has more than scribed his style as “inclusive.” 20 years of community planning “I like working with other peoexperience, will bring a depth ple,” he said. “My door is always of knowledge to the job, said open.” Brookfield Manager Timothy While Schwarz acknowledged Wiberg. From 2016 until June of that most of his career has seen this year, Schwarz was director him working in ex-urban municof planning for the city of Joliet, ipalities engaged in greenfield and he has held top planning development, he has worked in positions in places as varied as MICHAEL SCHWARZ historic communities and ones Homer Glen, Bartlett, Plainfield, along the Ogden Avenue corridor, Naperville and Davenport, Iowa. “What impressed me about him was he so Brookfield was an attractive opportunity. “That aspect of Brookfield is attractive was able to relay how applicable his experiences in Joliet, Naperville and Plainfield in that it has a lot of potential for the kind is. The best practices he learned there he of redevelopment Wheaton and LaGrange wants to bring here.” have had,” Schwarz said. “There’s support Schwarz, 51, was laid off from his post in for reasonable density in proximity to the Joliet, he said, as a result of revenue short- train stations.” falls caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Schwarz said he was also intrigued by the Editor
Klicker made an impact in his brief time fact that the village is trying to implement a new comprehensive plan, which indicated with Brookfield. He pushed village officials an openness on the part of residents and the to consider hiring a marketing agency to business community to changes that would promote local businesses – an idea that evenhelp revive the downtown area. tually resulted in the village’s “Brookfield has opportuninew Brookfield Bucks program, ties, since it’s open to the idea launched late last month. of density, to do some amazing He also sought and got fundthings,” Schwarz said. ing in the 2020 budget for a Wiberg said Schwarz beat comprehensive planning study out six other people who interfor the Ogden Avenue corridor. viewed for the position, includKlicker left before the village ing two other finalists. He’ll be could select a firm to lead that paid a salary of $112,500, Wistudy, but Wiberg said moving berg said. that initiative forward will be Schwarz replaces Ross Klickon Schwarz’s plate. er, who lasted as Brookfield’s “I’d also like to kick start procommunity development direcgrams in our TIF districts, intor just eight months before MICHAEL SCHWARZ cluding our new one [in the villeaving to take a similar posiBrookfield community lage’s downtown], to provide a tion in northwest suburban development director face-lift and rejuvenation of the Wheeling. downtown area,” Wiberg said. Like Schwarz, Klicker had an Wiberg said he would also impressive resume and years like Schwarz to continue Klickof experience working on comer’s effort to review the village zoning code munity and economic development initiaand suggest updates to it. tives on a scale not normally undertaken in “He’ll have his plate full,” Wiberg said of Brookfield. his new hire.
“Brookfield has opportunities, since it’s open to the idea of density, to do some amazing things.”
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The Landmark, September 9, 2020
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COURTESY OF VILLAGE OF BROOKFIELD
COMING SOON: Work is expected to begin in late September on the first phase of renovations to the Congress Park Metra station area. The upgrades include the construction of a new parking lot and improvements to the tunnel, stairways and platform shelters.
Congress Park station face-lift set to break ground Phase one work slated to begin in late September By BOB UPHUES Editor
The first phase of a major face-lift for the Congress Park Metra station area is expected to break ground later this month after Brookfield village trustees on Aug. 24 awarded a $334,806 construction contract to Chicago-based Master Design Build LLC. The winning bid, one of four submitted for the work, came in below the $375,908 estimate from the village’s planning consultant for the project, Hitchcock Design Group. About 45 percent of the cost of the work is being paid for through a $150,000 Community Development Block Grant. The rest will come from the Congress Park Tax Increment Financing (TIF) District via a loan from the Ogden Avenue TIF. The work will include improvement to the Congress Park station tunnel, stairways and commuter rail platforms and the construction of a 21-space commuter parking lot in the Burlington Avenue right-of-way lot west of DuBois Boulevard. Earlier this year, the village completed improvements to the sidewalk west of DuBois on the south side of Burlington Avenue. That project also included the installation of two bicycle shelters next to what will be the southwest corner of the new parking lot. In addition to the new parking lot and decorative landscaping around it, the proj-
ect will include power washing and painting the stairways to the platforms as well as the walls and ceiling of the pedestrian tunnel. Minor repairs will also be done to the masonry walls of the stairways, and new LED lighting will be installed in the tunnel. The north platform shelter and the south shelter nearest the stairs will both be reroofed and will also receive new glazing and LED lighting. Brick walls will enclose the south platform, replacing temporary plywood sheeting and matching the brick walls of the north shelter. The two smaller shelters on the south platform will be power washed. New benches and trash cans will also be placed in the north and south shelters. According to the terms of the contract, the work ought to be completed within 30 days of beginning. Master Design Build LLC, according to Village Planner Elyse Vukelich, is in the process of obtaining a temporary occupancy permit from the Burlington Northern-Santa Fe Railroad to start the job. The BNSF is requiring that the train platforms be kept open to the public throughout the project, though daytime closures will be permitted when they’re needed to allow workers to complete projects. Any work on the platforms themselves will be limited to between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. Phase two of the Congress Park Metra station will involve reconstructing the crumbling south embankment that faces Burlington Avenue. The unsightly green retaining wall, which looks like it’s constructed out of old railroad ties, is actually slabs of concrete piled on top of one another.
The BNSF has told the village that it will repair the wall, but no actual date has been set for the work. Rebuilding the retaining wall must happen before the final piece of the puzzle – the construction of a brick paver plaza and drop-off/pickup area in front of the station entrance can be completed.
Candy Cane Park design contract awarded Brookfield trustees voted unanimously on Aug. 24 to award a $79,800 design and construction administration contract to Hitchcock Design Group to lead the makeover of Candy Cane Park on the village’s north end. Hitchcock Design group has been working for the village as its park planning consultant for more than a decade, and the firm has guided planning for Candy Cane Park for the past five years. Half of the roughly $680,000 overhaul of the park, located west of Park Avenue between 28th and 29th streets, is being funded by an Open Space Lands Acquisition and Development (OSLAD) grant from the Illinois Department of Natural Resources. The balance of the cost will be paid from village operating funds. Originally scheduled to begin in 2020, the work will now start in spring/summer 2021 and be complete by spring /summer of 2022. Village officials decided to delay the project a year due to financial uncertainties related to the COVID-19 pandemic. The village will seek bids from landscape contractors for the improvements next January.
The Landmark, September 9, 2020
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Brookfield Zoo program helps save endangered local turtles ‘Head-start’ partnership give young specimens a better shot at survival
By BOB UPHUES Editor
Brookfield Zoo and the DuPage County Forest Preserve District celebrated a day that was a decade in the making on Sept. 2 when they released 22 Blanding’s turtles into the wild in northwest DuPage County. They were the first cohort of Blanding’s turtles – an endangered species in Illinois – released into the wild that were bred and hatched at Brookfield Zoo’s “head-start” program, which is a nearly decade-old partnership with the DuPage County Forest Preserve District. Since 2011, DuPage County has provided Brookfield Zoo with wild-born juvenile turtles, which are raised in a predator-free pond at the zoo. But because it takes between 14 and 20 years for Blanding’s turtle females to reach reproductive maturity, last year was the first year any of the zoo’s 25 females laid fertile eggs. “Nothing happens quickly with turtles,” said Andy Snider, curator of herpetology and aquatics at Brookfield Zoo. Blanding’s turtles are native to the Great Lakes region, but can be found across a huge swath of North America, from Nova Scotia to Nebraska. Snider said it’s hard to tell just how many Blanding’s turtles there are in Illinois, adding that their habitats tend to be small and scattered. Mobility has also decreased due to barriers like roads and increased development. According to a press release, the survival rate of Blanding’s turtles in the wild is minuscule, with only about 2 percent reaching breeding maturity due to predators like raccoons. About 90 percent of turtle nests are destroyed by predators annually during the 60-day incubation period. Brookfield Zoo’s head-start program gives the young Blanding’s turtles a better chance
at survival, said Snider. In the spring, hatchlings are placed in protected outdoor pens at the Dragonfly Marsh habitat at Brookfield Zoo. Snider says the young turtles get a taste of living in the wild, hunt for their own food while growing. “When they’re released, they are considerably bigger than when they are put in there in the spring,” Snider said. “They have a much better shot at it [in the wild] than if they were a hatchling.” The turtles released into the wild on Sept. 2 will also benefit the local population by reintroducing strains of DNA lost over time. Most of the breeding turtles at the zoo were the offspring of now-dead wild turtles. “The offspring we’re releasing now are returning genetic information back to the wild population that may have been lost more than 20 years ago,” said Dan Thompson, ecologist for the DuPage County Forest Preserve District in a press release. The Forest Preserve District started its first head-start program in 1996, collecting eggs from pregnant turtles found in the wild and then either caring for the eggs and hatchlings themselves or by partnering with other institutions, like Brookfield Zoo. In all, the DuPage County Forest Preserve District has released more than 3,000 microchipped turtles from the head-start programs into the wild. Snider said Brookfield Zoo plans to keep up its breeding program – more hatchings were born in 2020 than in 2019 and will be released into the wild next year – in the future. Female Blanding’s turtles can live up to 80 years and can lay fertilized eggs for decades. “Now that the females are big enough, we should be getting more and more hatchlings per year,” Snider said. “I expect that trend to continue as the females mature. Whatever hatchlings we have here will go out into the wild every year.”
JIM SCHULZ/CHICAGO ZOOLOGICAL SOCIETY
OFF YOU GO: Jeff Bocek, senior animal care specialist for the Chicago Zoological Society (left) and Dan Thompson, ecologist for the Forest Preserve District of DuPage County, release two of the 22 Blanding’s turtles to the wild in northwest DuPage County. The society is a partner in the district’s “head-start” program for the species. This is the first time in the program’s 25-year history that Blanding’s turtles bred and hatched in managed care at the zoo were released to the wild. Celebrating 35 years as Your Neighborhood Realtor!
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The Landmark, September 9, 2020
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The Landmark, September 9, 2020
THOMPSON
Fundraiser started from page 1 Hodgkins, McCook, Forest View, Summit and Bridgeview. Early during the investigation, it was revealed that at some point after her disappearance, Thompson’s cellphone pinged a tower in Springfield, Missouri. Other than that, however, there hasn’t been a trace of either Thompson or her car, a dark than 150 supplemental reports documenting purple 2014 Nissan Juke with Illinois license their investigation, indicating they have pursued numerous leads. plate number E27 3380. Kujawski said she met in person with “It’s just mentally exhausting. With the added stress of the pandemic, it’s just amaz- Brookfield detectives in late August to get an ing how hard it is,” said Dana Thompson update on the investigation, describing the Kujawski, who is Erica’s sister, in a phone more than 200-page file on the investigation. interview last week. “We’re still hoping that But there wasn’t much new police could reveal, she said. maybe she’s somewhere.” “Police didn’t tell me a whole lot, so what The police investigation so far has involved I gathered is they’re still actively working on a number of agencies, including two suburit,” Kujawski said. “We’re waiting for someban task forces and the FBI, body to talk, because somewhich helped track cellphone body knows something.” data. The FBI’s contribution Erica Thompson’s son, Miled Brookfield police to hire chael Russo, who said he’s an organization to help them battled anxiety and depressearch waterways in the vicinsion for years, now has the ity of where her phone traveled added worry of saving his early on Sept. 26, 2019. mother’s home. Using a sonar-equipped Russo’s aunt pointed him boat, police searched shipping DANA THOMPSON KUJAWSKI in the direction of an attorcanals trying to find vehicles Erica Thompson’s sister ney to see if there’s a way he matching the dimensions of can serve as the property’s Thompson’s Nissan Juke. Only administrator, so he can one of the dozen vehicles they work with his mother’s lendfound submerged in those waer and avoid foreclosure. terways fit the dimensions of Attorney Greg Martucci told the Landmark Thompson’s car, but a diver sent down to inthat he has filed a petition for Letters of Advestigate confirmed it was not hers. Brookfield Police Chief Edward Petrak ministration to Collect in Cook County Prosaid last week that Brookfield detectives have bate Court. “If her son, Michael J. Russo, my client, is sought the assistance of police “in other jurisdictions,” though he declined to specify granted Letters of Office, he will have authority to represent his mother’s estate in matters where exactly. “From the beginning this was a case of a pertaining to her property and her creditors,” missing person with suspicious circumstanc- Martucci said. He and Russo appeared via Zoom before a es,” Petrak said. “We’ve handled it almost as if it was a homicide case. We’re still hopeful judge on Aug. 27 and that due to the case’s unwe can find her, and we’re going to keep work- usual circumstances, the judge took the matter under advisement. ing at this until the case is solved.” “We are currently monitoring the case to Petrak said he was unable to provide any further information on whether police have see whether and when the order is entered,” interviewed anyone suspected to have been Martucci said. “Unfortunately, the Clerk of involved in Thompson’s disappearance. He the Court has been slow to post the orders did mention that detectives had written more after they have been signed. But, so far as I can determine, there has not been any legal action filed to date with respect to the mortgage on Erica’s home.” Russo said the lender, which at first was willing to communicate with him, has cut off communication. He added that a bank representative indicated to him that the institution likely would seek foreclosure after one year of nonpayment. It’s unclear whether the bank will act due to the pandemic, but PROVIDED the property is not out of the
“We’re waiting for somebody to talk, because somebody knows something.”
PROVIDED
WAITING FOR A BREAK: Erica Thompson’s sister, Dana Thompson Kujawski (top left), and Thompsn’s son, Michael Russo (above left) are hoping for a break in the case. Last fall, CrimeStoppers offered a reward and police are actively investigating, but neither Thompson nor her car, Nissan Juke (like the one see at lower left) have surfaced. woods. The property taxes haven’t been paid for the past two installments and are eligible for sale, although the pandemic has delayed the tax sale indefinitely. He’s set up an online fundraiser (gofundme. com/f/save-erica-thompson039s-home-mortgage-relief-fund), setting a goal of $135,000. But the pitch hasn’t gained much traction,
raising a little more than $800 in the month since it was started. Russo said he also spoke to police recently but, like his aunt, they didn’t have much new information to reveal. “They’re still trying to figure out where the car went and where the phone traveled,” Russo said.
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The Landmark, September 9, 2020
Teachers, students dazzled by new-look Ames School Bright, airy addition provides classroom space, library, multipurpose room and more
By BOB SKOLNIK Contributing Reporter
Last year, Ames School fifthgrade teacher Amy Seymour worked in a windowless classroom. This year Seymour is teaching in a modern, bright, airy and spacious classroom bathed in natural light from a row of four tall north-facing windows. “This is a serious upgrade,” Seymour said after teaching in her classroom for the first time on Sept. 2. “Walking in here was like walking into a different world. It feels very different than the old part of the school.” Seymour’s new classroom is part of an 18,000-square-foot $10 million addition to Ames School completed with not a second to spare. As schools in Riverside Elementary District 96 opened last week, a few finishing touches were still being buffed, including adding permeable pavers to the parking lot. The work went down to the wire. District 96 didn’t receive an occupancy permit for the Ames School addition and its other elementary schools, which underwent smaller construction projects, until 10 p.m. on Sept. 1. “It was a complex project,” said Ramesh Nair, who oversaw the construction projects at all of the elementary schools for Riverside District 96. The project has transformed Ames School. The two-story addition has a bright, open, airy look and feels very different than the more traditional older part of the school which was built in 1924 and added onto in 1988. The addition supplied two new large classrooms, an early learners wing with three classrooms that now houses the district’s pre-kindergarten program, a new library, a multipurpose room where lunch can be served, two learning hubs, a sensory room, a speech pathologist office, a room for English language learning classes and remodeled or new art and music rooms, as well as a brand new playground. “I love the new addition to Ames,” said Ames Principal Todd Gierman in an email. “These spaces were designed with 21st century learners in mind, and are very inviting to students.” Gierman said that in addition to the bright natural light that
ALEX ROGALS/Staff Photographer
WELCOME BACK: Ames School students check in at a tent out front before entering the newly renovated and expanded building on Sept. 2, the first day of the new school year for Riverside District 96. now floods the library, the area also has a maker space to accommodate STEAM classes as well as a separate, open learning space. “The open feel to the library is fantastic for our students,” Gierman said. The new multipurpose room will not only serve in the future as a lunch room, it can also be used as a learning space for larger groups of students across multiple grade levels, Gierman said. Desks in the new classrooms also function as white boards, meaning that students can write on the desks and then wipe them clean. The new classrooms also have built in cabinetry that also functions as white boards, built-in bookshelves and dimmable lights. Cubbies for student belongings are located in classrooms rather than out in the hallway. “Everything is just built into the design, which I think is very
“I think the students are going to love being in this environment.” ELIZABETH KING
Ames School art teacher
thoughtful of the architects,” Seymour said. Art teacher Elizabeth King was impressed with the new art room, which was built where a fourthgrade classroom once stood. “I’m just very impressed overall, from the planning to the execution, with what they’ve been able
to do with the space,” King said. “I think the students are going to love being in this environment where it’s really bright and happy, colorful.” Due to the continuing COVID-19 pandemic, the new playground will be off limits to students for now. The district obtained the space for the addition and new outdoor space by buying and demolishing two homes that had stood on either side of the school. The early childhood classrooms all have separate individual doors to the outside. The early childhood wing also has a separate drive-up entrance on the west side of the building, allowing the youngest children to be kept apart from older students. The separate entrance also allows for easy pickup and drop-off. Smaller changes were made at the other three elementary schools
in the district. Central School got a new multipurpose room in the area that once housed the school district’s administrative offices. The new multipurpose room means Central students will not have to go to the Hauser cafeteria for lunch. Central School also got an elevator. At Blythe Park School, the office was moved across the hall adjacent to a new secure entrance and small addition that holds two classrooms. At Hollywood School the office was moved to be closer to the entrance to enhance security. The district did not have to borrow any money for any of the other construction work this year. All the work combined cost about approximately $16.25 million, which the district paid for using its cash reserves. “Our buildings are transformed,” said District 96 Superintendent Martha Ryan-Toye.
The Landmark, September 9, 2020
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LTHS board looks for new member after resignation School board secretary Barbara Rosinsky out after six years By BOB SKOLNIK Contributing Reporter
Barbara Rosinsky, who has served on the Lyons Township High School Board of Education since 2014, resigned from her post on Aug. 24, the school announced last week. It’s unclear why Rosinsky, who served as the secretary of the school board, resigned. A press release announcing her departure did not give a reason, and Rosinsky did not respond to telephone or text messages from the Landmark. Rosinsky was first appointed to the school board in 2014 to replace Mark Pera, who resigned when he moved out of the district. Rosinsky then was elected to full four-year terms on the school board in 2015 and again in 2019, when she finished third in a fivecandidate field. In addition to serving as board secretary, Rosinsky served as the chair of the board’s
policy and human resources Rosinsky in 2019, former board member Phil Palmer and Ricarcommittees. do Martinez, are both consider“Barb has provided distining applying to fill the vacancy. guished service for more than “I may, but I haven’t made up six years,” said Tom Cushing, my mind yet,” Palmer said in the president of the LTHS Board response to an inquiry by the of Education, in a press release Landmark. issued by LTHS. “She is highly Palmer, an LTHS graduate, respected by her fellow board is the co-owner of the popumembers, which led her to be lar Palmer Place restaurant in elected to an officer position. It has been a privilege to serve with BARBARA ROSINSKY downtown LaGrange. He ran on a slate with Rosinsky and AliBarb, and she will be missed. On son Kelly last year, finishing 318 behalf of the entire board and votes behind Rosinsky. Palmer served on the district, we wish her well.” LTHS Superintendent Tim Kilrea also LTHS board for eight years from 2011 until 2019. praised Rosinsky in the press release. Martinez, who finished fifth in 2019 after “Barb is an advocate for all students,” Kilrea said. “She brought a straightfor- a campaign during which he was often critiward, commonsense approach to all board cal of the school board, said he will probmatters. As a parent of three LT graduates ably apply to fill the vacancy. “I think I’ll put in an application,” Marand volunteer with extensive community service, she brought a wealth of experience tinez said, adding that he thinks the LTHS board needs to become more diverse. and well-rounded perspective.” The school board must pick a replacement The board will now choose a replacement to serve until the next election in April 2021. by Oct. 23. Those interested in being considWhoever is elected will serve out the re- ered may download an application from the LTHS website (lths.net) or pick up an applimaining two years on Rosinsky’s term. The two candidates who finished behind cation packet from Clerk of the Board Lisa
FIRE CHIEF
‘Timing is everything’ from page 1 While both Kiser and North Riverside Mayor Hubert Hermanek Jr. said the parting of the ways was mutual, the timing was unexpected and things came together very rapidly this week. Hermanek said he interviewed McDermott on Monday, Aug. 30 after an internal candidate had turned down an offer to become fire chief. That candidate reportedly recommended McDermott for the post. The Forest Park chief had just announced he Bob McDermott was retiring effective Sept. 30. “Timing is everything,” said Herthe mayor and Village Administrator Sue manek. “I think he’ll be a real good fit. He knows the guys and gets along with Scarpiniti assured him that battle was over. “The mayor and administrator said the them. I think this is a step toward permanent past is past and they want to move forward, peace over there.” Hermanek was referring to a years’ long and I believe them,” McDermott said. “I want feud between village government and union to be part of that process.” Hermanek and Kiser reportedly have firefighters that peaked during a five-year campaign to privatize the fire service in agreed to the terms of his separation from the village, though they have not been made North Riverside. The lengthy court battle, which started in public yet. Kiser, who celebrated his second annithe summer of 2014 and resulted in expensive and seemingly endless litigation and labor versary as North Riverside’s fire chief last complaints, ended in December 2019 when the week, confirmed that he had submitted a lettwo sides inked a seven-year contract that ex- ter of resignation to the mayor. “The relationship recently has been pires next April 30. McDermott was well aware of that history stressed,” said Kiser. “Both parties were in when he decided to take the job, saying both agreement that it was time for a change and
maybe another person might be better for the position.” Asked where the stress came from, Kiser indicated it was North Riverside’s pervasive penchant for politicking. “Politics in North Riverside obviously is very heavy,” Kiser said. “Playing the political game may not be my best attribute.” As for the man who will be replacing him as chief in North Riverside, Kiser had nothing but positive words for McDermott. “He’s obviously a wellqualified candidate and faBOB UPHUES/Editor miliar with the area,” said Kiser, noting that McDermott was also president of MABAS Division 11, a mutual aid organization that includes the North Riverside Fire Department. “He’s has a great relationship with people here that should make him successful as the chief of North Riverside.” Kiser said that while he doesn’t have another job lined up immediately, he was sure he’d be able to land somewhere else. “I’ve had a variety of opportunities over the last six months,” said Kiser, who came to North Riverside after a stint as chief of operations for the Cook County Department of Homeland Security and years as a firefighter in Forest View. “I’m confident based off my skill set, resume and experience that I’ll land on my feet.”
Dombro, who works in the superintendent’s office located on the LTHS North Campus, 100 S. Cossitt Ave. in LaGrange. To be eligible to serve on the school board an individual must be at least 18 years old, have lived in the school district for at least one year and be registered to vote. Applications to fill the vacancy must be received by no later than 3 p.m. on Sept. 24. The school board will hold a special meeting in September during which the board will interview candidates for the vacancy in closed session.
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The Landmark, September 9, 2020
Opinion
THE LANDMARK VIEW
KOSEY CORNER
Throwing it all away
School year begins, but not like it used to
W
e’ll never understand guys like Jeffrey Tobolski. Here’s a guy who seemingly has it made. He inherited his job of McCook mayor – passed down to him from his father – earned salary and benefits approaching six figures (and more for serving as liquor commissioner) as mayor of a town of about 225 people. In 2010, he set his sights on becoming a county commissioner and unseated Tony Peraica for the job of representing the 16th District, whose boundaries have changed since he took over, but have included parts or all of Riverside, Brookfield and North Riverside during his years in the job. He breezed to re-election in 2014 and 2018. He had two jobs for life – with pensions to boot. But he wanted more and shook down a restaurant owner in his hometown for cash in exchange for selling liquor at special events at The MAX, a property the village owned. In a story the Landmark published in the run up to the 2010 county board election, we asked a question: “Is Jeffrey Tobolski a can-do legislator who through hard work and shrewd deal-making has started a commercial renaissance in the midst McCook’s obsolete industrial past, or he is bought and paid for by a political machine that is responsible for making county government a sinkhole of patronage and corruption?” Peraica did himself no favors in paving the way for his 2010 defeat – he had a penchant for grandstanding that alienated colleagues on the county board and right before the election was comically arrested for allegedly damaging a Tobolski campaign sign in McCook and dramatically filed a federal lawsuit in its wake – but he had a pretty good read on Tobolski. “Tobolski represents exactly what’s wrong with public office,” Peraica said at the time. “He’s only interested in self-aggrandizement and his own benefit.” After pleading guilty to conspiracy to commit extortion and filing a false tax return, Tobolski faces significant prison time – between 11 and 14 years – though that will probably be reduced considerably depending on how much he cooperates with federal prosecutors, who remain active in their probe of corrupt local, state and county officials and their political contributors. Turns out that in addition to shaking down the McCook business owner for some $30,000, Tobolski accepted bribe and extortion payments in excess of $250,000, according to his federal plea agreement. Maybe he and other small-town officials think no one’s paying attention. They get greedy, and careless. That gravy train is now over for Tobolski and is about to be over for others as well. We hope a few years living the high life, smoking cigars like a big shot and getting envelopes full of cash was a thrill, because it was never going to last. Will those who replace guys like Tobolski learn from these hard lessons? We sure hope so, but we’ve also seen this show over and over.
N
ormally, and who knows what is normal these days, I would write a column at this time of year about going back to school, buying supplies, colors of crayons and so forth. But this year it is oh so different. The new Crayola color doesn’t matter, it’s where you will be going to school. For many, school may be at the dining room table or a nook turned into a makeshift classroom. Yes, some students will actually be in a school classroom, which has been reconfigured to accommodate social distancing. Where No. 2 pencils, loose-leaf paper and folders were the primary accessories for a student, we now look to the computer. Back in the day, when I when I was in grade school, I can’t even imagine how it would have worked. Here I was at St. Mary’s School in a classroom with 36 students. Keep a distance? We were right next to us each other. I do think the good sisters may have liked the idea of the masks, however, because it would have kept the talking down. Getting back to the computers, laptops and chrome
books, they would have at least fit in the school bags that we carried, since they resembled a brief case. There were no text books in the school bags because we didn’t take them home. Those stayed at school, and we only took the workbooks home. Those text books were intended to last a long time. Teachers, who would have been readying their classrooms, decorating the bulletin boards and making the room welcoming at this time, are now called on to adapt to the situation and prepare for remote learning. How is it all going to work? Only time will tell. I think the good sisters would have prayed a lot if this had happened when I went to school. This came to mind the other day while I was mulling over the school situation. I remember a course called civics. Seems it was taught around seventh grade. It was very interesting and taught us about government. I somehow think it might be good to bring civics back to give us a refresher on government and teach today’s students what government is and how it’s supposed to work.
JOANNE KOSEY
LETTERS
Police reports a reminder to be aware Thank you so much for including police reports for our area in the Landmark publication. I think its important area residents are made aware of criminal activity affecting their neighborhood. It is a reminder to be aware of their surroundings and report any suspicious activity. It also reminds me of
the protection our police departments provide us. Our police should be praised for their dedication and hard work they do to protect us. Much thanks and appreciation to our police departments.
Frances Chudzik Riverside
Send letters to the Editor
Bob Uphues, Riverside-Brookfield Landmark 141 S. Oak Park Ave., Oak Park, IL 60302 include name, address and daytime phone number for verification
To run an obituary Please contact Bob Uphues by e-mail: buphues@rblandmark.com, please include a photo if possible.
The Landmark, September 9, 2020
OBITUARIES
Rev. Paul Landahl, 82, Lutheran bishop served on RBHS board The Rev. Paul Landahl, 82, died peacefully on Aug. 31, 2020, surrounded by his family. Rev. Landahl was born on April 4, 1938, to Gustav and Bertha, Swedish immigrants. He was a graduate of Valparaiso University and Concordia Seminary. His lifetime of ministry took a remarkable range of forms: mission developer, parish minister of Ascension Lutheran Church in Riverside, an associate to the bishop, bishop of the Metropolitan Chicago Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of America, and finally the director of candidacy for the Lutheran School of Theology at Chicago. His ministry was founded on a true love of community and people, a passion for finding ways to grow the church and make it more inclusive, and an unwavering commitment to social justice. Rev. Landahl’s youthful spirit matched well with his passion for working with younger people, whether it was leading trips in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area for 20 years to supporting seminary students navigating the candidacy process. His strong sense of service and calling was an inspiration to many. REV. PAUL LANDAHL While he was bishop of the Metro Chicago Synod from 2001-07, he advocated for the rights of LGBTQ parishioners and ministers in the ELCA and led the efforts to become a Reconciling in Christ synod. Through his leadership as bishop, he was a tireless advocate for the rights of marginalized groups including people who live in poverty, persons of color, and the LGBTQ community. In the words of those who knew him, “He lived a consequential life, walked his values, was a force, a beautiful soul, and someone who showed what compassion looks like.” Joy and justice lived in Rev. Landahl’s spirit. Rev. Landahl also served his community as a longtime member and chairman of the Riverside Township Mental Health Board, volunteer and board member at BEDS Plus, and as a board member of Riverside-Brookfield High School District 208. He loved his community and Chicago including the Cubs, food and architecture. He had a deep and abiding love for his family. His boundless energy enabled him to accomplish many great things in his life and also allowed him to be an amazing and supportive husband and dad. Rev. Landahl’s sense of humor and positive spirit helped his family through good and difficult times. He embraced and celebrated life with music. He cherished family dinners and always welcomed an interesting political conversation. He was a rock of support for his children and grandchildren and will be deeply missed. He was the husband of Carolyn who died in 2010; the father of Elizabeth (Heather Cusick), Amy (Mark Hill) and Matthew (Jeannette Payne); and ‘Papa’ to Eleanor and Nathan Hill and Jonah Landahl. He was preceded in death by his brother, George, and survived by his older brothers, John and Graydon. The family is planning a memorial service for him when it is safe to do so. Memorial donations are welcome and appreciated to Ascension Lutheran Church, 400 Nuttall Road, Riverside, 60546 or BEDS Plus (beds-plus.org). Arrangements were handled by The Original Kuratko Family, Kenneth D. and Brian D. Kuratko, directors.
15
NEWS
Three men rob Riverside 7-Eleven of cash, cigarettes Three men wearing masks, one of whom implied he was armed with a handgun, robbed 7-Eleven, 2600 Harlem Ave., on the night of Sept. 5, making off with an undisclosed amount of cash and cigarettes. According to police, the clerk on duty said the three men all came inside the store about a half hour before the robbery, walked around, bought nothing and left. At about 8:50 p.m. they returned, said police. No one other than the clerk was inside the store at the time. The men immediately went behind the counter, reportedly threatened the clerk by implying but not displaying a handgun and grabbed the proceeds from the store. The clerk was not harmed. The three men left the store through the rear emergency exit. The clerk told police he didn’t see a vehicle and a witness told police he saw three men running behind the Red Wing Shoes store across 26th Street to the north. Police, including a North Riverside K-9 unit, searched the area for suspects but were unable to locate any. The incident was captured on surveillance cameras inside the store. All three suspects are Black males and wore face coverings. The first was of medium build, wearing a red hat, blue jeans and a black T-shirt. The second, also of medium build, wore a black sweatshirt with the words, “My Block, My Hood, My City” in blue print on it. He also wore multi-colored pants and yellow shoes. The third wore wearing camouflage hoodie. Anyone with information is asked to call Riverside police at 708-447-2127 or send an anonymous email to crimetips@riverside.il.us. — Bob Uphues
PROVIDED
Surveillance cameras captured video of the three men suspected of robbing 7-Eleven at Harlem Avenue and 26th Street in Riverside on Sept. 5.
Brookfield firefighters respond to two fires No one hurt, but one home seriously damaged By BOB UPHUES Editor
Brookfield firefighters responded to two fires over the holiday weekend, and while no one was hurt in either incident, flames and smoke did serious damage to at least one of the homes involved. Firefighters responded to the first and more serious of the two fires at about 1:25 a.m. on Sept. 6 at 2931 Vernon Ave. Six people, including three children under the age of 10, were able to evacuate the home unharmed after the rear wood deck caught fire. The cause of the fire does not appear to have been suspicious, but it remains under investigation. The family reportedly was using a propane fire pit on the deck that night, but someone assured emergency responders that the fire pit had been shut down properly before they went inside. The flames spread from the deck to the rear wall of the home, according to a police report about the incident, and then spread to north side of the residence to the south. Police evacuated that home as well.
According to the police report, burning embers appear to have damaged the roof of a third home, though that damage does not appear to have been serious.
‘Sparks’ before Maple Ave. fire Faulty wiring appears to have been the cause of a fire late on Sept. 7 at 3141 Maple Ave. in Brookfield. According to the police report from the incident, residents of the home said they saw “sparks” coming from a vent in the master bathroom as well as sparks coming from the switch that operated the vent. They also reported that the lights flickered before smelling smoke and evacuating the home safely. When emergency personnel arrived, they reported smoke coming from the roof vents of the home. The attic of the home was filled with smoke and firefighters reported a fire below the insulation of the attic. While the house was not declared uninhabitable, the family did relocate for the time being, said police, since the smoke in the house had been so heavy and the smell excessive.
16
The Landmark, September 9, 2020
D103 special ed chief out, but replacement might be in house New Pre-K director has years of experience in special ed role By BOB SKOLNIK Contributing Reporter
After little more than one year on the job, the special education director of LyonsBrookfield School District 103 has resigned, but her replacement might already be working for the district. Colleen Bergren, the district’s director of student services, has resigned apparently to take a job back in Indiana. Bergren was hired by District 103 last year. She had worked with District 103 Superintendent Kristopher Rivera in the Hammond school district where she had been a middle school principal. Bergren could not be reached for comment. Kim West, the district’s new early childhood
This year she is being paid $92,000 West was succeeded in District 92 by Nora education director, has extensive to run the District 103 pre-kinder- Skentzos who had been the director of student experience in special education, garten program. services at Brookfield-LaGrange Park District having worked as the special eduDistrict 92 Super95. cation director for Will County intendent Tim ArSkentzos had been a member School District 92 for the past 11 nold did not return of the District 92 school board years. until she resigned that position West was hired by District 103 multiple phone calls to take the job with the district. this summer to replace Chris asking for comment. Skentzos told the Landmark Newell, who founded the district’s West has worked that she did not why West repre-kindergarten program 34 in education for signed. years ago and who had run it ever nearly 20 years. She KIM WEST West received a bachelor’s desince. started her career as gree in social work from Lewis “I have big shoes to fill,” West a paraprofessional University and went on to earn said. “Chris Newell did an exemplary job for a special education coopa master’s degree in special eduwith this program. She left it in great shape. erative in Lockport. In 2002, she cation from Lewis. She has also As an educator I always want our programs was hired to teach a self-conKIM WEST completed all the coursework to continue to get better for the success of all tained fifth-grade classroom for D103 Pre-K director necessary for a doctorate in edstudents.” students with emotional and beucational leadership at Lewis. West announced her intention to resign havioral disorders in Joliet. Currently the pre-kindergarfrom District 92 in March. She told the LandIn 2004, she moved to Lockten program in District 103 is mark that she resigned for personal reasons. port High School to become “I needed a change,” West said. the school’s pre-vocational coordinator and being conducted remotely. As soon as a disWest, who held the title of assistant super- rose to chairwoman of the special education trict order for Chromebooks is delivered, evintendent for special education at District 92, department at Lockport High School before ery family in the program will be given one of the devices to use. made an annual salary of $143,112 last year. moving on to District 92 in 2009.
“As an educator I always want our programs to continue to get better for the success of all students.”
Read it online at www.rblandmark.com
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The Landmark, September 9, 2020
RBLANDMARK.COM New local ads this week
YOUR WEEKLY AD
REACHES SIX SUBURBAN COMMUNITIES: OAK PARK, RIVER FOREST, FOREST PARK, BROOKFIELD, RIVERSIDE, NORTH RIVERSIDE, AND PARTS OF CHICAGO
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HELP WANTED
Job Title: Paid-on-Call Firefighter Description: The Village of Riverside Fire Department is seeking applicants for the position of Paid-on-Call Firefighter. Additional Status Information: This is not a full-time position. Qualifications: - In good physical condition - Reside within 1.5 miles of the boundaries of the Village of Riverside at time of appointment - Be 18 years of age at the time of application - Possess a high school diploma or GED - Possess a valid driver’s license with a good driving record Miscellaneous Applications are reviewed in October 2020. Application deadline is Friday, September 25, 2020. The Village of Riverside is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
HELP WANTED
HELP WANTED
Actuary (Combined Insurance Company of America - Chicago, IL) Lead projects analyzing claim, persistency, & business mix trends for A&H & Life insurance products. Reqts: Must have Master’s deg or foreign equiv in Econ, Mathematics, Statistics, Applied Fin’l Mathematics, Actuarial Sci or a rel ďŹ eld +2yrs of exp in the job offd or a rel position. Employer will accept pre-or post-Master’s deg exp. Must have 2yrs of exp w/in the supplemental A&H insurance industry. Must have 2yrs of exp: conducting product exp study & proactive product performance monitoring to improve persistency & proďŹ tability; recommend corrective actions on pricing, underwriting, claim process & sales, & achieve mgmt goals utilizing various d/base systems; spreadsheet prgms & business analytics s/ware, incl Excel, VBA, SQL, GGY AXIS, Qlikview, R Studio & PowerBI; creating & maintaining dashboard reports in PowerBI, reconciling data, writing data script & set analysis, updating report documentations, preparing ďŹ n’l exhibits to meet different stakeholders’ reqts; enhancing the process & improving efďŹ ciency of regular reports for business mgmt or to support regulatory & ďŹ n’l reporting needs utilizing d/base manipulation & prgmg skills; dvlpg quantitative & qualitative criteria, new analytics alerts & reports to detect poor performing business areas, claim pattern changes, & regional sales changes as well as communicating the analysis & ďŹ ndings; analyzing ďŹ n’l results & reviewing others’ analytical & technical work products in Excel, SQL, or other spreadsheet/database s/ware; providing technical training to team members, incl d/base knowl & query skills; managing multiple project priorities from various stakeholders; leading & managing deep dive exp review projects; anticipating project needs, deďŹ ning project scope, & dvlpg alt solutions; conducting actual to expected exp studies; conducting claim & lapse studies; & constructing & evaluating predictive models to support business portfolio mgmt goals. Must hold ASA or FSA designation. To apply go to www.chubb.com/ us-en/careers & Search Jobs by keyword # 333469. EOE.
PUBLIC WORKS SUPERINTENDENT VILLAGE OF RIVERSIDE, ILLINOIS Riverside, IL (pop, 8,875) The Village of Riverside is a mature, historic community located 11 miles west of Chicago in Cook County. Riverside is primarily a residential community originally conceived and planned in 1869 as a model suburb by Frederick Law Olmsted. The Village operates under the President –Trustee form of government with an appointed Village Manager. The Public Works Superintendent is a challenging, stimulating position that is hired by and reports to the Director of Public Works. The Village maintains over 34 miles of water main and pumps approximately 250,000,000 gallons of water per year to over 3,000 accounts utilizing no elevated storage tanks. The Public Works Superintendent is primarily responsible for the operation of the water system. The Public Works Superintendent performs complex supervisory, administrative and professional work in planning, organizing, directing, and assists with supervising the operations of the Department of Public Works. Positions supervised include clerical, administrative, maintenance and professional staff as assigned. The successful candidate must be able to demonstrate a combination of educational and relevant experience to fulďŹ ll the requirements of the position. The Public Works Superintendent must possess and maintain a Commercial Driver’s License and an ILEPA CertiďŹ ed Water Supply Operator certiďŹ cation of Class C or higher. Salary $85,000 +/- DOQ with a range of $80,000 to $105,000. Send cover letter, resume, anticipated starting salary and ďŹ ve work related references to Cathy Haley, Village of Riverside, 27 Riverside, Riverside, IL, 60546 or email credentials to chaley@riverside.il.us. First review of resumes will occur on September 11th, 2020. Equal Opportunity Employer.
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ROOMS FOR RENT
CITY RENTALS
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ACCOUNTING & INVENTORY Oak Park Foods Sales Company looking to ďŹ ll an Accounting & Inventory Analyst position - Responsible for a variety of ďŹ nancial duties including the management of sales invoicing, monthly portfolio sales reporting, oversight of accounts receivable and accounts payable, management of inventory models, monthly inventory reconciliations and month end closings. Advanced QuickBooks and MS Excel proďŹ ciency is essential to the success of this position. Please direct questions and resumes to jennifer.lieberman@ krugernorthamerica.com
AUSTIN CLEAN ROOM With fridge, micro. Nr Oak Park, Super Walmart, Food 4 Less, bus, & Metra. $116/wk and up. 773-637-5957
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VINTAGE HOWELL RED CHAIRS 6 beautiful vintage red chrome steel dining chairs by furniture maker Howell (St. Charles, IL) from the 1950s. All chairs in great condition. Small tears in two of the seats and extremely minor tear in third. Other three are in excellent condition. Wear is consistent with age/vintage condition and all chairs have been temporarily repaired to prevent further tearing.
WE BUY RECORDS!! We pay cash for your jazz, soul, punk, metal, rock, reggae, country records! Give us a call at 773-3726643. We make house calls!!
ELECTRICIAN’S HELPER PART-TIME Part-time Electrician’s Helper. Must have own transportation. Call for more info. 708-738-3848
SUBURBAN RENTALS
HAPPY KIDD’S WEST INC. 6928 W 16th St Berwyn, IL 60513 We are seeking a Director and 2 teachers. Director must be qualiďŹ ed and have Associate’s degree or equivalent. Teachers must be director or teacher qualiďŹ ed. Mon thru Fri. working with Infants to 6 yrs old. Compensable salary negotiable based on experience. Call 773-619-5545 or fax resume to 773-728-5437.
COZY TOWN HOME FOR RENT Cozy Town Home for Rent. Two bedroom, One Bath, with partial ďŹ nished basement and washer and dryer. 1 block from the amazing Lincoln Elementary School. Walk to the Blue Line, Grocery Store, Cafe, Ice Cream Shop, and great parks. One parking space included. Tenant pays all utilities. One month rent and one month security deposit required. Credit check required. Owner pays water and refuse. $1450. Available October 15, 2020. Please email townhomeoakpark@gmail.com for inquiries.
PARTTIME VISION THERAPIST Late afternoon and pm hours weekdays and possible Saturdays Work one on one with patients to improve vision skills.Training provided. Fax resume to 708-771-0513 or email to eyegirls@att.net
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OFFICE SPACE FOR RENT RIVER FOREST–7777 Lake St. *1116 sq. ft. suite *569 sq. ft. with patio RIVER FOREST–7756 Madison St. *926 sq. ft. OAK PARK–6597 North Ave. *598 sq. ft. 6142-44 Roosevelt Rd. *3 and 5 room suites Strand& & Browne Strand Browne 708-488-0011 708-488-0011
GARAGE/YARD SALES Chicago
COMMUNITY YARD SALE 5900 BLOCK OF WALTON STREET SAT SEPT 12 8AM TO 4PM
Clothes, shoes, toys, household appliances, furniture, etc. Forest Park
GARAGE SALE 908 BELOIT SAT 9/12 8AM TO 1PM
Lots of designer purses, designer cabinets, tools, furniture tables, vintage kitsch, lots of eclectic goodies! No early birds. Oak Park
END OF SUMMER GARAGE SALE 629 S TAYLOR AVE SAT 9/12 8AM
Price is $100/chair or $500/set of 6. Delivery available. 773-780-6315
CEMETERY LOT FOR SALE CEMETERY LOT FOR SALE Woodlawn Cemetery. Sec. Green Lawn part 2. If interested call 708-903-3568
AUTOS FOR SALE FORD INTERCEPTOR 2008 FORD CROWN VIC INTERCEPTOR 62K miles. $7500, 2013 FORD TAURUS INTERCEPTOR 140K MILES. $8500. Call Pearson 773-540-7650
ITEMS TO BE GIVEN AWAY TOSHIBA TV 18 inch Toshiba older model TV in good shape. Non-at screen. 708-903-7053
CEMENT
WANTED MILITARY ITEMS: Helmets, medals, patches, uniforms, weapons, ags, photos, paperwork, Also toy soldiers – lead, plastic – other misc. toys. Call Uncle Gary 708-522-3400
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CEMENT
MAGANA
Books, DVDs, CDs, mini-pinball machine, picture hanging kits, and much more.
C O N C R E T E C O N S T RU C T I O N
ITEMS FOR SALE
COMMERCIAL ˜ INDUSTRIAL ˜ RESIDENTIAL
CABINET AND HUTCH Beautiful ranch oak cabinet and hutch, bought at Marshall Field’s. Cabinet dimensions 49W x 28H x 18D. Hutch dimensions 49W x 29H x 11D. $199.00 708-488-8755 DECK FURNITURE 48� white table, small side table, 4 chairs with matching umbrella and cover. Best offer. 708-528-0896
Wednesday Classified 3 Great Papers, 6 Communities To Place Your Ad, Call: 708/613-3333
“QUALITY IS OUR FOUNDATION� ESTABLISHED IN 1987
708.442.7720 '5,9(:$<6 ‡ )281'$7,216 ‡ 3$7,26 67(36 ‡ &85% *877(56 ‡ 6,'(:$/.6 612: 3/2:,1* ‡ 67$03(' &2/25(' $**5(*$7( &21&5(7( FREE ESTIMATES LICENSED, BONDED & INSURED ď ? ď ? ď ? ď ? ď ? ď ? ď ? ď ? ď ?
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The Landmark, September 9, 2020
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CLASSIFIED CEMENT
CEMENT Residential Commercial Industrial Licensed Bonded Insured Free Estimates · Veteran Owned
Drives Walks Patios Stamped Concrete Curbs/Gutters Garage Floors Foundations Parking Lots Water Control
devegaconcrete.com · 708-945-9001
ELECTRICAL Ceiling Fans Installed
ELECTRICAL
A&A ELECTRIC
Let an American Veteran do your work
We install plugs for battery-operated vehicles We fix any electrical problem and do small jobs We install Surge Protectors • Home Re-wiring • New Plugs & Switches Added • New circuit breaker boxes • Code violations corrected Service upgrades,100-200 amp • Garage & A/C lines installed Fast Emergency Service | Residential • Commercial • Industrial Free Home Evaluations | Lic. • Bonded • Ins. • Low Rates • Free Est.
708-409-0988 • 708-738-3848 Sr. Discounts • 30 Yrs. Exp. Servicing Oak Park • All surrounding suburbs • Chicago area
FLOORS
LANDSCAPING
KLIS FLOORING INC.
NEIGHBORHOOD CLEAN UP
New hardwood flooring installation & pergo. Sanding, re-finishing, staining. Low prices, insured. Call: 773-671-4996 www.klisflooring.com
GARAGE DOORS Our 73rd Year
Garage Doors &
Smart Door Openers
Sales & Service
Evergreen trimming & more. Hand weed removal. Clean-ups. Call 24 hrs.
708-447-1762
PAINTING & DECORATING CLASSIC PAINTING Fast & Neat Painting/Taping/Plaster Repair Low Cost
708.749.0011
Free Estimates
PLASTERING
www.forestdoor.com
McNulty Plastering & Stucco Co.
(708) 652-9415 HANDYMAN
Small & big work. Free estimates. Complete Plaster, Stucco & Re-Coating Services
708/386-2951 • ANYTIME Work Guaranteed
CURT'S HANDYMAN SERVICE
Licensed, Bonded, Insured, & EPA Certified Expert craftsmanship for over 50 years
Drywall Repair • Painting Fans Installed • Carpentry Trim Gutter Cleaning • Window Repair
ROOFING
FREE ESTIMATES Excellent References No Job Too Small
708-488-9411
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
HANDYMAN Roofing Repairs Concrete Repairs • Drywall All types of handiwork Call For Free Estimates
773-637-0692 Ask for John
HAULING BASEMENT CLEANING
Appliances & Furniture Removal Pickup & Delivery. 708-848-9404
MIDWEST ROOFING All types of roofing repairs Commercial - Residential Call for free estimate
773-637-0692
PUBLIC NOTICES PUBLIC NOTICE Notice is hereby given, pursuant to “An Act in relation to the use of an Assumed Business Name in the conduct or transaction of Business in the State,” as amended, that a certification was registered by the undersigned with the County Clerk of Cook County. Registration Number: Y20004227 on August 27, 2020 Under the Assumed Business Name of POP-UP MUSIC SCHOOL with the business located at: 244 WESLEY AVE, OAK PARK, IL 60302. The true and real full name(s) and residence address of the owner(s)/ partner(s) is: MAGALY CORDERO-DIETZ 244 WESLEY AVE, OAK PARK, IL 60302, USA. Published in Wednesday Journal 9/2, 9/9, 9/16/2020
(708) 613-3333 • FAX: (708) 467-9066 • E-MAIL: CLASSIFIEDS@RBLANDMARK.COM
Let the sun shine in...
PUBLIC NOTICES LEGAL NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING VILLAGE OF BROOKFIELD PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION SEPTEMBER 24TH, 2020 AT 7:00 P.M. REGULAR MEETING NOTICE is hereby given that the Village of Brookfield Planning and Zoning Commission will conduct a public hearing on Thursday, September 24th, 2020 at 7:00 p.m. in the Edward Barcal Hall located at 8820 Brookfield Avenue, Brookfield, Illinois for the purpose of considering a text amendment to Chapter 62 of the Village Code of Ordinances to add curb cuts from a public street to new residential structures as a special use.
Public Notice: Your right to know In print • Online • Available to you 24/7/365 PublicNoticeIllinois.com PUBLIC NOTICES LEGAL NOTICE LAW OFFICE OF LINDA EPSTEIN Attorney for Petitioner 722 W. Diversey Parkway Ste. 101B Chicago, IL 60614
The public is invited to attend the public hearing and present oral and/ or written comments.
STATE OF ILLINOIS) COUNTY OF COOK )ss
Written comments may be provided prior to the public hearing to: Village of Brookfield, Planning and Zoning Commission c/o Elyse Vukelich, Village Planner, 8820 Brookfield Avenue, Brookfield, IL 60513, evukelich@brookfieldil.gov or 708485-1445. The application may be viewed by contacting the Village Planner. Please reference PZC Case 20-08.
In re the marriage of Maria I. Martinez, Petitioner and Ruben Martinez, Respondent, Case No. 20 D 005511.
Individuals with disabilities requiring a reasonable accommodation in order to participate in any meeting should contact the Village of Brookfield (708) 485-7344 prior to the meeting. Wheelchair access is available through the front (South) entrance of Village Hall. By the Order of Chuck Grund, Planning and Zoning Commission Chairman. Published in RB Landmark 9/9/2020
LEGAL NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING VILLAGE OF BROOKFIELD PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION SEPTEMBER 24TH, 2020 AT 7:00 P.M. REGULAR MEETING NOTICE is hereby given that the Village of Brookfield Planning and Zoning Commission will conduct a public hearing on Thursday, September 24th, 2020 at 7:00 p.m. in the Edward Barcal Hall located at 8820 Brookfield Avenue, Brookfield, Illinois for the purpose of considering a request for a sign variance at 3845 Prairie Avenue, Brookfield, Illinois 60513 (PIN 15-34-432-037-0000; 15-34-432-014-0000; 15-34-432015-0000; 15-34-432-016-0000). Legal Description: Lots 15 and 16 in Block 30 in Grossdale, a Subdivision of the Southeast ¼ of Section 34, Township 39 North, Range 12, East of the Third Principal Meridian, in Cook County, Illinois and Lots 17, 18, 19, and 20 in Block 30 in Grossdale, a Subdivision of the Southeast ¼ of Section 34, Township 39 North, Range 12, East of the Third Principal Meridian in Cook County, Illinois. The public is invited to attend the public hearing and present oral and/ or written comments. The application may be viewed at the Village of Brookfield Village Hall during normal business hours. Written comments may be provided prior to the public hearing to: Village of Brookfield, Planning and Zoning Commission c/o Elyse Vukelich, 8820 Brookfield Avenue, Brookfield, IL 60513 at evukelich@brookfieldil. gov. Individuals with disabilities requiring a reasonable accommodation in order to participate in any meeting should contact the Village of Brookfield (708) 485-7344 prior to the meeting. Wheelchair access is available through the front (South) entrance of Village Hall. By the Order of Chuck Grund, Planning and Zoning Commission Chairman. Published in RB Landmark 9/9/2020
Circuit Court of Cook County, County Department, Domestic Relations Division.
The requisite affidavit for publication having been filed, notice is hereby given to you, the above named Respondent, that a Petition has been filed in the Circuit Court of Cook County, Illinois, by the Petitioner, Maria I. Martinez, for Dissolution of Marriage and for other relief; and that said suit is now pending. Now, therefore, unless you, the said Respondent, e-file your Appearance and Response to said Petition with the Office of the Clerk of the Circuit Court of Cook County, on or before September 23, 2020, default may be entered against you at any time after that day, and a judgment for Dissolution of Marriage entered in accordance with the prayer of said Petition. DOROTHY A. BROWN, Clerk. Published in Wednesday Journal August 26, September 2, and September 9, 2020
LEGAL NOTICE SERRANO LEGAL SOLUTIONS, LLC 1144 LAKE STREET, SUITE 201 OAK PARK, IL 60301 STATE OF ILLINOIS) COUNTY OF COOK )ss Circuit Court of Cook County, County Department, Domestic Relations Division. In re the marriage of KAREN WOJNAROWSKI, Petitioner and ABDEL RZAQ KAYED, Respondent, Case No. 2020 D 004989. The requisite affidavit for publication having been filed, notice is hereby given to you, the above named Respondent, that a Petition has been filed in the Circuit Court of Cook County, Illinois, by the Petitioner, for Dissolution of Marriage and for other relief; and that said suit is now pending. Now, therefore, unless you, the said Respondent, file your response to said Petition or otherwise make your appearance therein, in the Office of the Clerk of the Circuit Court of Cook County, Illinois, Room 802, Richard J. Daley Center, 50 West Washington Street, in the City of Chicago, Illinois, on or before October 5, 2020, default may be entered against you at any time after that day, and a judgment for Dissolution of Marriage entered in accordance with the prayer of said Petition. DOROTHY A. BROWN, Clerk. Published in Wednesday Journal September 2, September 9, September 16, 2020
PUBLIC NOTICES
PUBLIC NOTICES
PUBLIC NOTICES
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING VILLAGE OF OAK PARK ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS HEARING DATE: September 24, 2020 TIME: 7:00 p.m. or as soon thereafter as the Agenda permits CALENDAR NUMBER: 02-20DRC: 1011 Lake Street, Rush Oak Park Physician’s Group APPLICATION: The Community Design Commission (“Commission”) will conduct a public hearing on an application filed by the Applicant, Rush Oak Park Physician’s Group, seeking a sign variance from the following sections of the Sign Code of the Village of Oak Park, to permit installation of one (1) wall sign on the rear elevation (south) of the building where there is no street frontage at the premises commonly known as 1011 Lake Street, Oak Park, IL, Property Index Number 16-07-126012-0000 in the DT Downtown Sign Overlay District: 1. Section 7-7-15 (D) (1) (b), which section requires that wall signs for buildings located on corner lots shall only be placed along the front or corner lot line. The proposal features a “Rush” sign for Rush Oak Park Physician’s Group located on the south elevation of the building facing a parking lot where there is no street frontage; and 2. Section 7.7.15 (D) (5), which section requires that wall signs shall be located on the sign frieze or the sign
band of the building immediately above the first-floor window and below the second-floor window sills in the case of a two-story building. The proposal features the “Rush” sign located on the ground floor advertising a tenant located above the second-floor window sill. A copy of the application and applicable documents are on file and are available for inspection with the Zoning Administrator, 123 Madison Street, Oak Park, Illinois 60302, Monday through Friday between 8:30 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. The Commission will conduct the public hearing remotely with live audio available and optional video. The meeting will be streamed live and archived online for on-demand viewing at www.oak-park.us/commissiontv as well as cablecast on VOP-TV, which is available to Comcast subscribers on channel 6 and ATT U-Verse subscribers on channel 99. The remote public hearing is authorized pursuant to Section 7(e) of the Open Meetings Act. The Village President has determined that an in-person public hearing is not practical or prudent due to the COVID-19 outbreak during Governor JB Pritzker’s current disaster proclamation. It is also not feasible to have a person present at the public hearing due to public safety concerns related to the COVID-19 outbreak.
All interested persons will be given an opportunity to be heard at the public hearing. Interested persons may provide written evidence, testimony and public comment on the application by email to Zoning@ oak-park.us or by drop off in the Oak Park Payment Drop Box across from the entrance to Village Hall, 123 Madison Street, Oak Park, Illinois, to be received no later than 5:00 p.m. on September 24, 2020. An individual’s name and their testimony or comment will be read aloud into the record at the public hearing if received no later than 30 minutes prior to the start of the public hearing. Interested persons may also participate in the hearing to cross examine the applicant and its witnesses, present evidence, testimony or public comment by emailing Zoning @oak-park.us before 5:00 PM on the day prior to the public hearing to sign up. Individuals who sign up to participate in this manner will receive an email from Village staff with information about how to join the meeting online through Zoom web-conference means or by phone.
P
The public hearing may be adjourned by the Commission to another date without further notice by public announcement at the hearing setting forth the time and place thereof.
Published in Wednesday Journal September 9, 2020
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING VILLAGE OF OAK PARK ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS HEARING DATE: September 24, 2020 TIME: 7:00 p.m. or as soon thereafter as the Agenda permits CALENDAR NUMBER: 03-20-DRC: 505 Washington Boulevard, Fenwick High School APPLICATION: The Community Design Commission (“Commission”) will conduct a public hearing on an application filed by the Applicant, Fenwick High School, seeking a sign variance from the following sections of the Sign Code of the Village of Oak Park, to permit installation of one (1) wall sign on the west elevation of the newly constructed parking garage that is approximately 73 square feet and is located just below the fifth-floor window sill and one (1) approximately 32 square foot directional wall sign on the south elevation at the premises commonly known as 505 Washington Boulevard, Oak Park, IL, Property Index Number 16-07-421-011-0000; 1607-421-020-0000 & 16-07-421-0210000 in the Residential Sign Overlay District: 1. Section 7-7-15 (D) (1), which section requires that wall signs within residential districts shall not exceed 40 square feet in size. The proposal features a sign on the west elevation that is approximately 73 square feet in size; 2. Section 7-7-15 (D) (5), which section requires that wall signs shall be located on the sign frieze or the sign
band of the building immediately above the first-floor window and below the second-floor window sills in the case of a two-story building. The proposal features a sign on the west elevation located just below the fifthstory window sill; and 3. Section 7-7-12 (S), which section requires that a directional sign shall not exceed four (4) square feet. The proposal features a directional sign on the south elevation approximately 32 square feet in size. A copy of the application and applicable documents are on file and are available for inspection with the Zoning Administrator, 123 Madison Street, Oak Park, Illinois 60302, Monday through Friday between 8:30 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. The Commission will conduct the public hearing remotely with live audio available and optional video. The meeting will be streamed live and archived online for on-demand viewing at www.oak-park.us/commissiontv as well as cablecast on VOP-TV, which is available to Comcast subscribers on channel 6 and ATT U-Verse subscribers on channel 99. The remote public hearing is authorized pursuant to Section 7(e) of the Open Meetings Act. The Village President has determined that an in-person public hearing is not practical or prudent due to the COVID-19 outbreak during Governor JB Pritzker’s current disaster proclamation. It is also not feasible to have a person present at the public hearing Published in Wednesday Journal September 9, 2020
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due to public safety concerns related to the COVID-19 outbreak. All interested persons will be given an opportunity to be heard at the public hearing. Interested persons may provide written evidence, testimony and public comment on the application by email to Zoning@ oak-park.us or by drop off in the Oak Park Payment Drop Box across from the entrance to Village Hall, 123 Madison Street, Oak Park, Illinois, to be received no later than 5:00 p.m. on September 24, 2020. An individual’s name and their testimony or comment will be read aloud into the record at the public hearing if received no later than 30 minutes prior to the start of the public hearing. Interested persons may also participate in the hearing to cross examine the applicant and its witnesses, present evidence, testimony or public comment by emailing Zoning @oak-park.us before 5:00 PM on the day prior to the public hearing to sign up. Individuals who sign up to participate in this manner will receive an email from Village staff with information about how to join the meeting online through Zoom web-conference means or by phone. The public hearing may be adjourned by the Commission to another date without further notice by public announcement at the hearing setting forth the time and place thereof.
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The Landmark, September 9, 2020
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Let the sun shine in...
Public Notice: Your right to know
In print • Online • Available to you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, every day of the year RBLandmark.com | PublicNoticeIllinois.com PUBLIC NOTICES
LEGAL NOTICE The Village and Park District of Oak Park will receive sealed Bids from qualified contractors at the Public Works Center, 201 South Blvd., Oak Park, IL 60302 Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. local time until 2:00 p.m. on Friday September 25, 2020 for the following: Village and Park District of Oak Park 2021 Comprehensive Tree Maintenance Bid Number: 20-140 Bid forms may be obtained from the Public Works Customer Service Center by calling 708-3585700 and stopping by the office located at 201 South Boulevard, Oak Park, Illinois between the hours of 7:30 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. Information is also available from the Assistant Public Works Director, Rob Sproule, rsproule@oakpark.us and the Village’s website http://www.oak-park.us/bid.
The Landmark, September 9, 2020
RBLANDMARK.COM
A mandatory pre-bid meeting shall be held on Wednesday, September 16 at 11 a.m. at the Taylor Park Picnic Pavilion in Oak Park. Proposals received from bidders who do not send a representative to the pre-bid meeting shall not be considered. The Village and Park District of Oak Park reserve the right to issue proposal documents and specifications only to those vendors deemed qualified. No proposal documents will be issued after 4:00 p.m. on the working day preceding the date of proposal opening. For more information call the Public Works Service Center at 708.358.5700. Published in Wednesday Journal September 9, 2020
PUBLIC NOTICE Notice is hereby given, pursuant to “An Act in relation to the use of an Assumed Business Name in the conduct or transaction of Business in the State,” as amended, that a certification was registered by the undersigned with the County Clerk of Cook County. Registration Number: Y20004121 on August 18, 2020 Under the Assumed Business Name of ALMOST ANYTHING IMPRINTING with the business located at: 62 NORTH HERBERT ROAD, RIVERSIDE, IL 60546. The true and real full name(s) and residence address of the owner(s)/partner(s) is: KATHRYN EILEEN MINAGHAN 62 NORTH HERBERT ROAD, RIVERSIDE, IL 60546, USA Published in RB Landmark 08/26, 9/2, 9/9/2020
REAL ESTATE FOR SALE
REAL ESTATE FOR SALE
REAL ESTATE FOR SALE
REAL ESTATE FOR SALE
REAL ESTATE FOR SALE
REAL ESTATE FOR SALE
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT CHANCERY DIVISION MWD ASSET SERVICING, LLC Plaintiff, -v.TINA MCDONALD A/K/A TINA N. MCDONALD, JOANNE MCDONALD, MORTGAGE ELECTRONIC REGISTRATION SYSTEMS, INC Defendants 10 CH 36359 500 EASTERN AVENUE BELLWOOD, IL 60104 NOTICE OF SALE PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above cause on December 3, 2019, an agent for The Judicial Sales Corporation, will at 10:30 AM on September 22, 2020, at The Judicial Sales Corporation, One South Wacker Drive, CHICAGO, IL, 60606, sell at a public sale to the highest bidder, as set forth below, the following described real estate: Commonly known as 500 EASTERN AVENUE, BELLWOOD, IL 60104 Property Index No. 15-09-311-0580000 The real estate is improved with a single family residence. The judgment amount was $311,057.79. 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, including the Judicial Sale fee for the Abandoned Residential Property Municipality Relief Fund, which is calculated on residential real estate at the rate of $1 for each $1,000 or fraction thereof of the amount paid by the purchaser not to exceed $300, in certified funds/ or wire transfer, is due within twenty-four (24) hours. No fee shall be paid by the mortgagee acquiring the residential real estate pursuant to its credit bid at the sale or by any mortgagee, judgment creditor, or other lienor acquiring the residential real estate whose rights in and to the residential real estate arose prior to the sale. 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(g1).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, Alexander Potestivo, POTESTIVO & ASSOCIATES, P.C. Plaintiff’s Attorneys, 223 WEST JACKSON BLVD, STE 610, Chicago, IL, 60606 (312) 263-0003. Please refer to file number 113876. 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. POTESTIVO & ASSOCIATES, P.C. 223 WEST JACKSON BLVD, STE 610 Chicago IL, 60606 312-263-0003 E-Mail: ilpleadings@potestivolaw. com Attorney File No. 113876 Attorney Code. 43932 Case Number: 10 CH 36359 TJSC#: 40-1855 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. I3154976
PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above cause on January 23, 2020, an agent for The Judicial Sales Corporation, will at 10:30 AM on September 24, 2020, at The Judicial Sales Corporation, One South Wacker Drive, CHICAGO, IL, 60606, sell at a public sale to the highest bidder, as set forth below, the following described real estate: Commonly known as 125 SOUTH LOMBARD AVENUE, OAK PARK, IL 60302 Property Index No. 16-08-302-0150000 The real estate is improved with a yellow vinyl siding, one story single family home with a detached two car garage. 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, including the Judicial Sale fee for the Abandoned Residential Property Municipality Relief Fund, which is calculated on residential real estate at the rate of $1 for each $1,000 or fraction thereof of the amount paid by the purchaser not to exceed $300, in certified funds/ or wire transfer, is due within twenty-four (24) hours. No fee shall be paid by the mortgagee acquiring the residential real estate pursuant to its credit bid at the sale or by any mortgagee, judgment creditor, or other lienor acquiring the residential real estate whose rights in and to the residential real estate arose prior to the sale. 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. MCCALLA RAYMER LEIBERT PIERCE, LLC Plaintiff’s Attorneys, One North Dearborn Street, Suite 1200, Chicago, IL, 60602. Tel No. (312) 346-9088. 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. MCCALLA RAYMER LEIBERT PIERCE, LLC One North Dearborn Street, Suite 1200 Chicago IL, 60602 312-346-9088 E-Mail: pleadings@mccalla.com Attorney File No. 268445 Attorney ARDC No. 61256 Attorney Code. 61256 Case Number: 19 CH 00561 TJSC#: 40-595 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 # 19 CH 00561 I3154996
of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above cause on December 11, 2019, an agent for The Judicial Sales Corporation, will at 10:30 AM on September 28, 2020, at The Judicial Sales Corporation, One South Wacker Drive, CHICAGO, IL, 60606, sell at a public sale to the highest bidder, as set forth below, the following described real estate: Commonly known as 439 S. TAYLOR AVE. #2/3-B, OAK PARK, IL 60302 Property Index No. 16-08-321-0311006, Property Index No. 16-08-321031-1007 The real estate is improved with a condo/townhouse. 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, including the Judicial Sale fee for the Abandoned Residential Property Municipality Relief Fund, which is calculated on residential real estate at the rate of $1 for each $1,000 or fraction thereof of the amount paid by the purchaser not to exceed $300, in certified funds/ or wire transfer, is due within twenty-four (24) hours. No fee shall be paid by the mortgagee acquiring the residential real estate pursuant to its credit bid at the sale or by any mortgagee, judgment creditor, or other lienor acquiring the residential real estate whose rights in and to the residential real estate arose prior to the sale. 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, examine the court file, CODILIS & ASSOCIATES, P.C. Plaintiff’s Attorneys, 15W030 NORTH FRONTAGE ROAD, SUITE 100, BURR RIDGE, IL, 60527 (630) 794-9876 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. CODILIS & ASSOCIATES, P.C. 15W030 NORTH FRONTAGE ROAD, SUITE 100 BURR RIDGE IL, 60527 630-794-5300 E-Mail: pleadings@il.cslegal.com Attorney File No. 14-19-04531 Attorney ARDC No. 00468002 Attorney Code. 21762 Case Number: 2019CH08990 TJSC#: 40-2114 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 # 2019CH08990 I3155206
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT CHANCERY DIVISION DEUTSCHE BANK NATIONAL TRUST COMPANY, AS TRUSTEE FOR FFMLT TRUST 2005-FF11, MORTGAGE PASS-THROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2005FF11 Plaintiff, -v.BRIAN HOLLOWAY Defendants 19 CH 00561 125 SOUTH LOMBARD AVENUE OAK PARK, IL 60302 NOTICE OF SALE
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IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT CHANCERY DIVISION WILMINGTON SAVINGS FUND SOCIETY, FSB, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY, BUT SOLELY AS TRUSTEE OF CSMC 2018-RPL12 TRUST. Plaintiff, -v.KARL A. REESE, ROSALYN CUMMINGS-YEATES A/K/A ROSALIND CUMMINGS-YEATES, UNKNOWN OWNERS AND NONRECORD CLAIMANTS Defendants 2019CH08990 439 S. TAYLOR AVE. #2/3-B OAK PARK, IL 60302 NOTICE OF SALE PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment
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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: 1-800669-9777. Wednesday Journal Landmark Forest Park Review
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The Landmark, September 9, 2020
EN OP
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2024 S Wabash Ave, #305, Chicago $235,000 EN OP
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59 East Quincy, Riverside $379,000 EN OP
4216 N Kolmar Ave, Chicago $625,000 EN OP
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56 N Cowley Rd, Riverside $429,900
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7651 Adams, Forest Park $539,000
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EN OP
T& SA
144 Scottswood Rd, Riverside $875,000
299 Longcommon Rd, Riverside $899,000
172 Maplewood Rd, Riverside $625,000
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1926 Berteau Ave, Chicago $695,000 EN OP
591 E Parkway Rd, Riverside $539,900
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45 Longcommon Rd, Riverside $975,000
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4441 Wolf Rd, #401, Western Springs $759,900 EN OP
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321 Delaplaine Rd, Riverside $790,000 AL NG NTISTI E R L W NE
151 Bloomingbank Rd, Riverside $975,000
84 Pine Ave, Riverside $1,500
EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY
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