Wednesday Journal 021523

of Oak Park and River Forest

Refugee shabbat unites helping network

By TOM HOLMES

Contributing Reporter

Michael Zmora, a member of West Suburban Temple Har Zion (WSTHZ),

was one of two featured speakers at the Refugee Shabbat held at his temple on Harlem Avenue in River Forest, Feb. 3.

In his talk he detailed the story of how the organization he volunteers with,

Refugee Community Connection, plus an extended network of non-government organizations (NGOs) worked to-

One semester in with OPRF’s new frosh curriculum

OakPark villageboard takeson aordable housing

New study and potential new revenue sources for future housing projects

By STACEY SHERIDAN Staff Reporter

In the last two weeks, much of the attention of the Oak Park village board has been squarely focused on the housing situation in the community, including opportunities to increase af fordable living and to identify current housing needs to shape future policies.

One of the biggest steps the village board has agreed to undertake is a comprehensive housing study that is intended to evaluate the direction of Oak Park’s housing policy since the “Homes for a Changing Region Plan.” That initiative, which Oak Park was one of four communities to participate

Mother of slain teen les lawsuit against BP gas stati

Logan-Bledsoe murdered last June

By STACEY SHERIDAN Staff Reporter

The family of the 18-year-old woman who was fatally shot outside an Oak Park BP gas station last June has filed a lawsuit in Cook County Circuit Court against the station’s owner, Hargobind Inc. The lawsuit argues gas station ownership is at fault due to its lax security and failure to protect the safety of its customers.

“It appears that they put profit over people, which is the unfortunate reality of living in America,” said Karen Munoz, the attor ney representing the victim’s family, which does not wish to speak to the press

At the time of her death, Jailyn Logan-Bledsoe, an Oak Park and River Forest High School graduate, was in the parking lot of the BP gas station located at 100 Chicago Ave., when

June 22. One offender then fled in LoganBledsoe’s vehicle.

Two siblings were charged with first-degree murder for Logan-Bledsoe’s death, but her mother is seeking accountability from the gas station, which at the time was operating 24 hours a day and has been cited in multiple police reports.

“There were no measures taken to prevent activity like this happening, even though it was foreseeable based on prior criminal acts,” Munoz told Wednesday Jour nal.

The lawsuit alleges that the gas station had a duty to its customers to keep the station in such a condition as to be reasonably safe for the community and its customers. The family is seeking damages in whatever amount the jury sees fit for the tragedy.

Attributing the data to the Oak Park Police Department, the filing states that there were 160 ar med robberies reported in Oak Park between Jan. 3, 2019, and

June 20, 2022, with 14 taking place at gas stations Of the 14, one occurred at the station

Jan. 1, 2019, and Oct. 21, 2022, there were 58 reported vehicular hijackings in Oak Park with four occurring at gas stations. One happened at that same BP g as station and the other three at g as stations within a twomile radius.

target ,

according to the filing, which listed a Feb. 17, 2022 incident where an employee called police after a man at the station threatened to “blow someone’s head of f.”

The death of Lo g an-Bledsoe put 24-hour g as stations and the crime that occurs there at the forefront of the community’s attention. Nearby residents and other 24hour convenience stores beseeched the village board to enact le gislation banning around the clock operations, which it did in Se ptember

A group of Oak Park g as stations filed a lawsuit against village gover nment over the ordinance, which dictates g as stations close nightly at 11 p.m. and open at 5 a.m. Wednesday Jour nal has reached out to the attor neys re presenting the stations for comment. The ordinance went into ef fect in November, with the village be ginning enforcement the day before Thanksgiving.

Lo g an-Bledsoe was a young activist, following in the footsteps of her grandmother Phyllis Lo g an, the longtime leader of the Westside Branch NAACP. She loved music, her family and her do g, who has fallen into de pression in her absence, Muno z said.

“It’s af fected this family so much that it’s hard to get up every day,” she said.

Lo g an-Bledsoe was taking some time off to figure out what she wanted to do with her life, following her high school graduation, according to Munoz.

“She seemed like just such a beautiful person,” said Muno z. “Who knows what she could have accomplished in life.”

LOURDES NICHOLLS

e crime scene marked o following the murder last June.

Mourners form a prayer circle in 2022, during a gun violence rally outside the BP gas station on Chicago Avenue in Oak Park.

JAILYN LOGAN BLEDSOE

BIG WEEK

Februar y 15-22

South Chicago Danc e Theater

Friday, Feb. 17, 7:30-9 p.m., Unity Temple Restoration Foundation

This group’s reper toire is as diverse as the group itself, deftly moving from the classical to the modern. $25-$40, 875 Lake St., Oak Park.

Bobbi Meier: Imper fect Rituals

Saturday, Feb. 18, 2 p.m., Riverside Ar ts Center

This exhibit will be running through the 18th, with viewing times on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays from 1-5 p.m. On the nal day, there will be a talk with the ar tist herself 32 E. Quinc y, Riverside.

Valentine’s Hangover Reboot

Friday, Feb. 17, 8 p.m., Madison Street Theater Four comedians, hosted by Todd Glover. $15 in advance, $20 at the door, 1010 Madison St., Oak Park.

Candidate Forums

Thursday, Feb. 16, 7-8 p.m.

The Oak Park Public Library presents vir tual candidate forums for the April 6 Municipal Election through March 9. Today’s forum focuses on Oak Park Elementar y School Distric t 97. Hosted by the League of Women Voters of Oak Park & River Forest, in par tnership with the Oak Park Public Library. Register now at oppl.org/calendar

TechGirlz: Lights, Camera, Ac tion: Stor ytelling & Video Produc tion

Friday, Feb. 17, 3:45-5:45 p.m.;

Wednesday, Feb. 22, 5-7:30 p.m., Oak Park Public Librar y his event teaches how to construct stories and learn techniques to produce/edit photo and video content using mobile devices or iPads. For girls in grades 5-8. Register now at oppl.org/calendar. 834 Lake St., Oak Park

Film Screening: If ‘Beale Street Could Talk ’

Friday, Feb. 17, 1-3 p.m., Oak Park Public Librar y

If Beale Street Could Talk is a 2018 American romantic drama lm written and direc ted by Barr y Jenkins and based on James Baldwin’s 1974 novel of the same name. The lm follows a young woman who, with her family ’s suppor t, seeks to clear the name of her wrongly charged lover and prove his innocence before the birth of their child. Register now at oppl org/calendar. 834 Lake St., Oak Park

Mardi Gras with the Hungr y Williams

Tuesday, Feb. 21, 8 p.m., FitzGerald’s

Heather Peterson

Friday, Feb. 17, 7 p.m., Calvar y Memorial Church Solo classical piano concer t, featuring “a joy- lled reper toire of resilence and hope.” 931 Lake St., Oak Park.

Brondihouse

Saturday, Feb. 18, 12:30-2:30 p.m., Oak Park Public Librar y ShaRonda Knott-Dawson will share knowledge about black histor y, spanning centuries with history rooted in West Africa. Recommended for elementar y, middle and high school students. 834 Lake St., Oak Park.

It’s that time in New Orleans for Mardi Gras, but that doesn’t mean Berw yn hasn’t caught the spirit. This special Louisiana-by-way-of-Illinois celebration features the jump -blues sounds of the Hungr y Williams, plus plenty of hurricane and gumbo to go around. $20, 6615 Roosevelt Road, Berw yn.

Listing your event

Wednesday Jour nal welcomes notices about events that Oak Park and River Forest groups and businesses are planning. We’ ll work to get the word out if you let us know what’s happening by noon Wednesday a week before your news needs to be in the newspaper

■ Send details to Wednesday Jour nal, 141 S. Oak Park Ave., Oak Park, 60302

■ Email calendar@wjinc.com

Tri-villages hope to RAISE Harlem bridge through grant

After several unsuccessful tries, consultant hired to help land funding

By ROBERT J. LIFKA Contributing Reporter

Officials from Forest Park, Oak Park and River Forest continue to seek funding for the multimillion-dollar project to replace the railroad bridge at the intersection of Harlem Avenue and South Boulevard that is over 100 years old, applying once again for a federal grant, but this time using a consultant.

River Forest officials unanimously approved a resolution at the Feb. 13 village board meeting that supports Oak Park’s hiring of a Chicago-based transportation consulting fir m to assist in applying for a Rebuilding American Infrastructure with Sustainability and Equity (RAISE) discretionary grant.

The grant, which could be for as much as $25 million, would be used to fund construction costs for the project. Estimated cost of the project has risen since it was first proposed in 2008 and now stands at $34.6 million. Harlem is the border between Oak Park on the east and Forest Park and River Forest on the west. The bridge also marks the border between River Forest on the north and Forest Park on the south.

The cost of the contract with Sam Schwartz Engineering is $15,000, with River Forest’s share being $3,740, or one-fourth of the total, reflecting the village’s ownership of onefourth of the bridge. Forest Park’s share also will be $3,750 with Oak Park’s share of $7,500 reflecting that village’s ownership of half of the bridge.

According to the Sam Schwartz website, the fir m has been known “for 25 years as the transportation firm that solves the industry’s most challenging problems by balancing exemplary technical skills with exceptional creative approaches — a combination that sets our work apart.”

In a memo to River Forest officials, Jeff Loster, director of public works and development services, said Sam Schwartz was selected by Oak Park officials “based on their prior experience and general background knowledge of this project.” Loster said at the Feb. 13 meeting that River Forest officials were approached by Oak Park officials when the grant opportunity came to their attention.

“With such a big price tag associated with

a project like this, we’re always looking for funding opportunities that are applicable,” Loster said. Referring to a grant application submitted to the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity for funds that would help close out the Phase 1 work that stalled out years ago, he said the RAISE grant “has a bigger award cap and so we’re eyeing that as a source to address construction and construction management costs.”

Cathy Adduci, River Forest village president, noted that she and officials from Forest Park and Oak Park are working with elected officials at the state and federal level to obtai funding for the project.

“That’s the real key,” she said, identifyin Illinois Senate President Don Har mon, I nois Speaker of the House Emanuel “Chris Welch and state Senator Kimberly Lightfor as being involved on the state level and U. Senators Dick Durbin and Tammy Duckworth on the federal level.

The bridge was originally built in the 1920s to carry the Chicago and Northwester n Railway tracks over Harlem. It now carries the tracks of Metra, the Union Pacific Railroad and the Chicago Transit Authority. The pu pose of the reconstruction project is to elimi nate the congestion problems caused by the configuration of the existing structure, which has remained essentially unchanged since its construction over a century ago, despite significant increases in traffic along Harlem.

Plans from 2018 when the three municipalities unsuccessfully sought grant funding from the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) called for replacing the existing bridge; lowering the Harlem roadway to reduce truck strikes to the viaduct; and adding pedestrian and aesthetic enhancements. The support column in the viaduct also would be removed in an effort to improve traffic in the area.

USDOT of ficials announced in December that $1.5 billion in grant funding would be available through the RAISE discretionary grant program for 2023. The pr ogram helps communities around the country car ry out projects with significant local or re gional impact.

RAISE discretionary grants help project sponsors at the state and local levels, including municipalities, tribal gover nments, counties, and others complete critical freight and passenger transportation infrastructure projects The eligibility requirements of RAISE allow project sponsors to obtain funding for projects that are harder to support through other USDOT grant programs

Trustee Susan Buchanan: sustainabi lity soldier

Running for re -election on progressive ideals

By STACEY SHERIDAN Staff Reporter

Village Trustee Susan Buchanan has been a pioneerin force in the village of Oak Pa sustainability efforts, and desire to keep the village movin forward on that path has spur her to seek a second ter m.

“It’s going to take some concentrated attention at the board le to make sure we meet our climat action goals,” she told Wed day Jour nal.

directing 40% of public climate and sustainability funds to vulnerable and impacted community members. The village will also partner with those impacted community members and outside organizations to create suitable sustainability and climate-change policies and programs

“That felt really rewarding as something I could do about the problem, instead of just worrying about people wearing masks and washing their hands and staying distant from each other,” she said.

the decision to engage the services of BerryDunn, and there to examine their results of the assessment months later

SUSAN BUCHANAN

The village has embarked a comprehensive plan to reduce Oak Park’s carbon footprint, making the community more sustainable and resilient in the face of climate change. The plan calls for a decrease in community-wide greenhouse gas emissions by 60 percent by 2030, relative to 2019 levels, with a goal to reach community-wide, net-zero emissions by 2050.

Other facets of the plan include establishing 30% of Oak Park’s land as green infrastructure or enhanced park management for native plants, wildlife and people, as well as

Buchanan was a co-founder of the Oak Park Climate Action etwork (OPCAN), a group of sustainability-minded residents with a mission of eliminating ollution through equitable practices and regulations. OPCAN recommended that the village create a climate action plan and ve its endorsement to that plan August. Other recommendations made by the group, and takup by the village, include the iring of a full-time sustainabilcoordinator and providing retrofitting grants to make housing in Oak Park more environmentally sound

Much national and inter national tur moil coincided with Buchanan’s time on the board. She was there throughout the village’s COVID-19 efforts, from emergency declarations and stay-at-home orders to doling out federal aid funding and opening up public streets for outside dining. She also volunteered at the Oak Park Public Health Department’s vaccination clinics.

Her professional experience brought a medical perspective to pandemic-related discussions and votes Buchanan is a practicing occupational and environmental physician, an area of medicine dedicated to studying and treating illnesses caused by exposure to chemicals and pollutants in the workplace and in the environment. She is on the faculty of the Public Health Department at the University of Illinois Chicago, where she runs research grant programs on top of teaching

The village board not only had a global health crisis to contend with, but also civil unrest over the treatment of Black people in the U.S. by police, reignited by the death of George Floyd. The board, at the time led by Mayor Anan Abu-Taleb, began to reassess the equitability of its law enforcement policies, deciding to bring on an outside consultant to do an assessment of the police department.

Buchanan got to see this through with almost an entirely new board — Abu-Taleb and three trustees, including current trustee candidate Simone Boutet, had completed their ter ms. Buchanan was there to weigh in on

“Not everybody agrees with using that consultant, which was made up primarily of for mer police officers,” Buchanan said. “But their findings, I think, are really useful.”

The report offered several recommendations, from increasing the partnership with mental health providers as an alter native to police calls, as well as increasing personnel development, implementing procedures and policies to check on impartial policing, and greater utilization of technology and training.

Buchanan believes all of that, plus the dayto-day responsibilities of a village trustee, has given her the experience and wherewithal needed to keep Oak Park advancing in progressive, equitable policymaking. She genuinely enjoys putting in that work too

“It takes concentration and effort and I also love it,” she said of being a trustee.

Buchanan is not easily satisfied with the status quo. She said that during her first two years on the board, under Abu-Taleb’s leadership, she lear ned some elected officials were unwilling to change due to feeling content with the current situation. She disagrees with that approach and believes the community does too.

Journal’s OPRF candidate forum Feb. 16 at Dominican

New date and new location for Oak Park village board forum announced

The spring election season is here with contested races in some village government and school board races. Election Day is April 4 and early voting starts in just four weeks

First up though is Wednesday Jour nal’s candidate forum for school board candidates at Oak Park and River Forest High School. That event, live and in person, will be this Thursday, Feb. 16 at 7 p.m. It will be held in the Martin Recital Hall on the Dominican University campus, 7900 W. Division St

There are four candidates running for three open seats on the school board.

Charlie Meyerson, a long-time Oak Park-

er and publisher of Chicago Public Square, will moderate the forum. Audience members will be invited to submit written questions during the forum.

Meanwhile, due to a scheduling snafu, the Jour nal’s candidate forum for the Oak Park village board has a new date and a new location. This event, moderated by Doris Davenport of “The Doris Davenport Show” on WPNA (AM 1490), will now be on March 16 at 7 p.m. in the council chambers at Oak Park’s village hall, 123 Madison St. Again audience members will be able to submit written questions during the forum.

On other fronts, Wednesday Jour nal is gearing up for the election with candidate profiles underway, a digital candidate guide underway, questionnaires out to all the candidates, an extensive Voter Guide being prepped for print on March 15 and, we’re glad to say, the retur n of in-person candidate forums as COVID eases.

OPRF

Four candidates for three seats

Feb. 16 at 7 p.m.

Dominican University, 7900 W. Division St., River Forest Mar tin Recital Hall

Moderated by Charlie Meyerson of Chicago Public Square

Oak Park Village Board

Fi ve candidates for three seats

March 16 at 7 p.m.

Oak Park Village Hall

Council Chambers

123 Madison St.

Moderated by Doris Davenpor t of “The Doris Davenpor t Show” on WPNA

e League’s list of Candidate Forums

Only Growing Community Media’s Wednesday Journal, Forest Park Review and Landmark forums are in person. All others are virtual with sign up on lwvoprf.org.

Feb. 15 7 p.m. Center West Oak Park Neighborhood Association hosts Oak Park village trustee candidates

Feb. 16 7 p.m. League of Women Voters District 97 candidate statements

Feb. 16 7 p.m. Wednesday Jour nal candidate for um for OPRF High School candidates Live at the Mar tin Recital Hall at Dominican University, 7900 W. Division St.

For complete list visit lmvoprf.org

Celebrating Harambee with the Kuumba Kids

Annual celebration is back in-person

By STACEY SHERIDAN Staff Reporter

The proclamation read in honor of Black History Month at the Oak Park village board’s Feb. 6 meeting was made all the more powerful by the perfor mance of traditional African dance by the village’s youth. The Kuumba Kids danced in council chambers, as drummers provided accompaniment, making for a truly moving experience.

Those who missed out need not despair, however Kuumba Kids will be marking the end of Black History Month with a celebratory recital at Longfellow Elementary on Feb. 24 that promises to be even more special.

“What we saw Monday at the village was just a snippet of what the kids are going to bring on Feb. 24,” said Donna Callendar, Kuumba Kids LLC founder and dance teacher

The perfor mance is Kuumba Kids’ annual Harambee celebration; harambee means “all pull to gether” in Swahili, and the event re presents the community coming to gether. The children involved in Kuumba Kids have been practicing for months in preparation for the event, where they will showcase traditional African and Caribbean dances to the rhythm of professional drummer s.

This is the first in-person Harambee celebration since COVID-19 hit. The pandemic, in its full forc e, didn’t hit Illinois until March 2020, so Kuumba Kids were able to perfor m for Black History Month. In 2021, they had a vir tual celebration, which they reran in 2022. This year, the celebration will be bigger and better than ever, according to Kuumba Kids Executive Director Melanie McQueen.

“We have sur prise guests that we’re really excited about and we’re going to have one of the best choreographed pieces that anyone has seen,” she said.

In between dancing, this year’s Harambee celebration will have spoken word poetry and musical perfor mances, making for an evening that brings awareness to the cultural impact of the African diaspo-

ra. And admission is entirely free

“There is no cost to the community to come enjoy an evening of dancing, of poetry, of music and ar t,” said Callendar “It’s absolutely free to everybody.”

The perfor mance star ts at 7 p.m., but an hour before that, 17 vendors will be at Longfellow selling African and Afrocentric clothing, accessories and goods. Vendors are coming from all across the Chicago area.

Kuumba Kids star ted as an afterschool program for elementary school kids, but as the original group of students were moving on to upper-level education, they wanted to continue dancing and retur ned to Longfellow for practices. Just as the children grow, so has the org anization. It now has around 50 student dancers.

“The fact that these students want to come back and still dance and still lear n and still perfor m, it touches me because I feel I’m doing my job,” said Callendar, a professional dancer. “I am utilizing my talents in the most authentic way.”

Callendar and McQueen are incredibly

proud of their Kuumba Kids students and what they have accomplished. Through dance and a love-based approach, Kuumba Kids are taught to be confident, expressive and compassionate individuals

For Black students, Kuumba Kids is an oppor tunity to connect with their heritage. For the other kids, the program broadens their cultural scope, teaching them to respectfully eng age with people of different backgrounds in a meaningful and educational way. Through Kuumba Kids, the children create beautiful relationships with movement, history and each other Kuumba means “to create” in Swahili and a respect for creation flows through everyone involved in the org anization.

Before Kuumba Kids became a certified limited liability corporation, Callendar was teaching the kids after school while working a full-time of fice job. Wanting nothing but the best for her students, she purchased a sewing machine and taught herself to sew, putting together all the costumes.

After work, Callendar would stay up as late as 3 a.m. sewing, then squee ze in a couple hours of slee p and head to work Now she is able to commit fully to Kuumba Kids, immersing herself in work that she loves – teaching children.

“I will not go back to an of fice job in life,” she said. “This is it for me. It has been the happiest times of my life.”

While McQueen comes from a family full of ar tists, the Kuumba Kids executive di-

rector didn’t find her creative calling until Callendar asked if she could make decorations for the first ever Kuumba Kids Harambee program in 2016. At the time, she was just a parent volunteer

“I was like, ‘Really? You really want me to do something?’” McQueen recalled.

Despite her initial nervousness, McQueen knocked it out of the park, making a Serengeti-themed backdrop with thatched grass laid out at the front of the stage From then on, she has been tasked with stage design for each perfor mance.

“I didn’t know what I was getting myself into, but that’s how we star ted working to gether and then of course became business par tners,” said McQueen.

With each Kuumba Kid Harambee celebration, Callendar and McQueen try to outdo what they created the year before, ensuring that the costumes and scenery are always fresh and beautiful. And while pleasing for the audience, the ef for ts they put in make a dif ference to the children.

“Their whole demeanor changes,” said McQueen. “They get really excited because they never know what it’s going to look like.”

That excitement is car ried into their perfor mance, as is the energy of the audience. The children, especially the younger ones, are thrilled to see their family and teachers in the crowd and that verve is channeled directly into their movements.

“It always brings tears to my eyes,” McQueen said.

COURTESY OF KUUMBA KIDS DANCE

COURTESY OF KUUMBA KIDS DANCE

OPRF adds Project 2 plan tweaks, prepares to vote

Changes push total cost over $100 million

By BOB SKOLNIK Contributing Reporter

The school board at Oak Park and River Forest High School is poised to approve the scope for the long discussed and debated Project 2 at OPRF at their next board meeting on Feb. 23. The school board is expected to approve the plan to demolish and rebuild the southeast portion of the high school and replace it with a new physical education wing which would include a new 25 yard by 40 yard swimming pool with a 420 seat observation gallery to replace the two existing pools at the school that were built in 1928. The project would also include new gyms, PE classrooms and other improvements.

The school administration is recommending, and the board is expected to approve, five alter nate add ons to the base proposal that will raise the cost of Project 2 by $2,291,951 which will bring the total projected cost of Project 2 to $101,756,790. The board received the administration’s recommendations at its Committee of the Whole meeting on Feb. 9 and no board member raised any objections None of the alter nates were unexpected

The most expensive alter nate that will be added to the project is filling in the current west swimming pool and transforming the space into a dedicated physical education space for students with special needs as well putting in a trainer’s room with hydrotherapy, an office and storage space. That is projected to cost $1,293,036.

Another alter nate expected to be approved is spending $379,593 to renovate the entire first floor South Hallway all the way to the fieldhouse instead of only the portion of the hallway in the new portion of the building. This will give the entire hallway a consistent finish aesthetic and branding for the hallway instead of splitting the hallway into a new portion and a portion with 1967 finishes.

Another alter native recommended for approval is spending $375,000 to enclose a low roof area. That is expected to reduce costs in the future on what is called Project 5 which includes future plans to build a new fieldhouse The enclosed roof area would be used for storage or built out in the future. Mechanical equipment on the low roof will be moved to the high roof.

The administration is also recommending adding structural and electrical infrastruc-

ture to accommodate future solar panel installation in the new portion of the building. This is projected to cost $125,000. Another alter nate to be added to the project is infilling the two story theater scene shop to create a second floor in the theater prop storage room at a projected cost of $119,332.

The administration and school board are rejecting five alter nates including having an occupied roof area that would have cost approximately $964,000 which the administration described as nice to have but not necessary.

In addition to the new swimming pool Project 2 includes a new three court gym on the third floor with a seating capacity of 800, a multipurpose dance gym, a new weight room, additional physical education classrooms and of fices, new boys and girls locker rooms as well as all gender locker rooms for gender non-confor ming students, and an expanded green room for perfor ming arts students

“This isn’t a pool, this is a facilities plan with significant infrastructure,” said school board president Tom Cofsky.

The school board will decide in the coming months on how to pay for Project 2. It is

expected to use a substantial portion of its approximately $90 million reserve fund and borrowed money The big issue is whether the borrowed money would come from building bonds that would require voter approval in a referendum or debt certificates that would not require a referendum.

As has been typical at school board meetings for the past few months residents spoke both in favor and against Project 2 and commented on financing options in the public comment period of the meeting.

Four speakers were critical of the cost and scope of Project 2 and demanded that any borrowing for Project 2 be voted on in a referendum. Two people spoke in support of Project 2 and argued against a referendum saying that the delay a referendum would cause would only add to the costs of the project.

Those critical of the Project 2 said the school should explore working with the Park District of Oak Park to tur n the swimming pool at Ridgeland Common into a year round swimming pool.

“The Ridgeland pool sits idle for nine months every year,” said Monica Sheehan, a long time critic of the Project 2 proposal. “A year round aquatic facility would meet

the school’s needs and provide a wonderful resource for the community.”

Laura Huseby said the size of the proposed pool is not abnor mally large

“It allows our teachers to have more flexibility as they provide instruction to these students, particularly our students who are trying to lear n to swim,” Huseby said.

“These are instructional spaces Putting a roof on Ridgeland simply doesn’t meet these curricular needs during a busy school day.”

Peter Ryan, a graduate of OPRF, said that physical improvements to the school are long overdue.

“We need to invest in this high school so that new families, people who move here from wherever, maybe even our kids’ kids (have) similar opportunities to those we had for generations to come,” Ryan said.

But Jeffrey Sobcynski and Jack Powers argued that Project 2 is too costly and argued for a reduced scope for the project. Sobcynski said the money could be better spent in other areas such as improving psychological services for students.

“My overarching question is how is a $100 million sports facility going to help educ ate students,” Sobcynski said.

Aquatic schematic design, aka the new pool, is one part of OPRF’s Project 2 proposal.

D200 hires new asst. supt. for business services

Tony Arbogast will be the third administrator to make more than $200K

By BOB SKOLNIK Contributing Reporter

Oak Park and River Forest High School will have a new assistant superintendent for business services next year, who will be the third OPRF administrator to be paid more than $200,000 a year. On Jan. 26 the District 200 board voted 6-0 to hire Tony Arbogast as assistant superintendent for business services. Arbogast will start work at OPRF on July 1.

Arbogast, 37, currently wo as assistant superintendent business and operations at Plainfield Community Consolidated School District 202, where hi responsibilities included seeing construction of a ne elementary school that opened in 2021. He has worked for since 2020.

“After an exhaustive search, are thrilled to bring Mr. Arbo team at OPRF,” Superintendent Greg son said in a press release. “He was our top candidate, as his prior experience makes him an ideal match for us as we address our current financial and facility needs.”

Arbogast told the Wednesday Journal he was “extremely excited” to get the job. Plainfield District 202 is the fifth largest district in the state, serving approximately 25,000 students. It has four high schools, seven middle schools, 18 elementary schools, and two specialized schools. Arbogast, who served as the top finance person for Roselle School District 12 for nearly four years before getting hired by Plainfield in 2020, will be getting a boost in salary to come to OPRF, a oneschool district serving 3,400 students. OPRF will pay Arbogast $205,000 next year. His current annual salary at Plainfield District 202 is $159,757. The director of Business Services at Lyons Township High School District 204, a comparable position at a one-school district with nearly 4,000 students, who has held the position at LTHS for nine years, is paid $188,084.

Currently the only two employees at OPRF making more than $200,000 a year are Supt Johnson ($237,500) and Asst. Supt. for Human Resources Roxana Sanders ($200,564.88).

Current OPRF Chief Financial Officer Cyndi Sidor will be retiring at the end of the 2023-24 fiscal year so she will have one year to work with Arbogast as he transitions to OPRF. Next year Sidor will move to a different role as director of finance.

“For personal reasons, Cyndi is moving back to her previous position of director of finance, so it’s transition only in the sense that that they will work together, but in different roles,” said Karin Sullivan, executive director of Communications at OPRF, in an email.

At Roselle, Arbogast, according to the OPRF press release that announced his hiring, creted and oversaw the district’s first balanced budget in more than 25 years. He also managed veral construction/renovation projects, saving the district several million dollars from original estimates

Arbogast serves on the board directors of the Illinois AssociSchool Business Officials. He earned an MBA from Colorado State University and a master’s in educational leadership and school business management from Norther n Illinois University.

Arbogast grew up in Lyons and graduated from Nazareth High School. He went to Dominican University, where he played first base on the baseball team for three years but couldn’t afford to come back for his senior year because of his family’s financial situation. He obtained his stock broker’s license and got a job as an investment advisor at Waddell and Reed for 17 months before moving on to Guardian Life Insurance/Park Avenue Securities.

In 2010 he went to work at K-12 Teachers Alliance, a company that works with schools and focuses on online learning. In the meantime he went to back to school in a hybrid learning program and graduated from Grand Canyon University with a bachelor’s degree with honors in finance and economics in 2011. After earning his MBA, he was hired by Roselle District 12 in 2016. He earned his masters from NIU in 2017.

What’s Your Property Worth?

Contact

Selling,

Ken Van Santen | Realtor

708.975.0210

ken.vansanten@bairdwarner.com

www.kenvansanten.bairdwarner.com

Residential - Multi-Family - Commercial

91st Season

Sunday, February 19, 2023 – 4pm

Concordia University Chapel – River Forest

VAUGHAN WILLIAMS Suite for Viola and Small Orchestra

HINDEMITH Trauermusik for Viola and String Orchestra

Uli Widmaier, viola

RAVEL Shéhérazade

Nathalie Colas, soprano

VAUGHAN WILLIAMS Symphony No.5 in D major NATHALIE COLAS,

Scan for tickets and info

Free parking in the garage located at 1124 N. Bonnie Brae Place (one block west of Harlem Avenue between Division and Thomas Streets) in River Forest. Chapel just west of garage exit. Purchase ticket online for $27 and save $3 a ticket!

In-person ticket at box office on concert day $30.

Students through college free.

Go to SymphonyOPRF.org to order tickets, subscriptions and to DONATE.

Questions: Email TheSymphonyOPRF@gmail or call (708) 218-2648

PRECAUTIONS: The entire orchestra has shown proof of COVID-19 vaccination. Currently there is no plan to require the audience to show proof of C-19 vaccinations, but masks are recommended.

TONY ARBOGAST

MAURICE BOYER, conductor

soprano

ULI WIDMAIER, viola

Eating your way across Elmwood Park

Village gears up for fifth installment of Restaurant Week

By JACKIE PISANO Contributing Reporter

Whether venturing along the established “Restaurant Row” of North Avenue, “The Circle” district along Conti Parkway, or discovering the myriad of culinary gems dotted across town, the Village of Elmwood Park boasts a booming dining scene with a diverse range of cuisines for everyone.

In celebrating the one-of-a-kind eateries which make Elmwood Park one of Chicagoland’s premiere dining destinations, the village is gearing up to host its annual Restaurant Week, dubbed “Dine-In Elmwood Park,” from Friday, Feb. 17 through Sunday, Feb. 26.

“We’ve worked hard to support our local

restaurateurs and to grow our dining scene in Elmwood Park over the past few years,” said Village President Angelo “Skip” Saviano. “Patrons visiting our restaurants will find good food in a more intimate, local setting than they might find in downtown Chicago.”

For 10 days, 17 restaurants across town will open their doors to sweet deals on menu favorites, guaranteed to keep mouths watering and stomachs full.

While deciding on whether to savor classic Italian dishes, familiar American staples or anything in between, take a sneak peek into the fun:

The Sportz Nook. 7841 W. Grand Ave.

Open since last May, owner David Carlson says his small on size but mighty on menu restaurant guarantees diners a well-rounded night-out experience from the moment they enter until the second they clean off their plates.

“We’re a very clean, friendly atmosphere, and I owe everything to my staff,” Carlson said. “I’ve got great cooks, and our meatballs and meatloaf are our specialties, but honestly, all of the good food and friendly

TheSportzNook: Meatballs are a menu specialty at The Sportz Nook, slow simmered in house-made red sauce and perfect atop spaghetti.

staff is what sets us apart from other establishments.”

During Dine-In Elmwood Park, the elevated neighborhood pub will boast a lunch special of its Reuben sandwich for only $10 and dinner specials of appetizer mussels in a wine garlic sauce for $10 and spaghetti topped with house favorite meatballs for $12. In addition, diners can enjoy a second meal for half-off menu price.

Donny G’s Ristorante and Bar. 7308 W. North Ave.

If a throwback night out reminiscent of old-school Italian lounges and hearty meals is what you’re craving, look no further than Donny G’s.

“We’re all homemade and the best Italian kitchen you can find in the Chicagoland area,” said George Diamanopoulos, restaurant manager. “We have five-star reviews — and with the staff here, it’s a real family restaurant.”

Lunch specials include the meatball sandwich with fries ($10), albacore tuna panini with fries ($11) and cheese ravioli with vodka sauce ($14) — all including a soft drink and scoop of savory gelato.

Dinner specials — all served with one glass of red or white house wine and gelato — include chicken scallopini with mushrooms, onions and spinach ($18), pork chop Calabrese in a white wine sauce with spicy

cherry peppers and potatoes ($22) and red snapper Francaise with spinach ($22).

Cafe Cubano. 7426 W. North Ave.

For 22 years, Cafe Cubano has served diners flocking from across Chicagoland for a taste of the most authentic Cuban food north of Miami.

Owner Mayra Fernandez, who runs Cafe Cubano alongside husband Javier, says they’re proud to stay true to their family’s Cuban roots, with recipes passed down from Javier’s father. That authenticity, she says, is what keeps people coming back time and time again.

“We are straight up, 100% Cuban food — no fusion,” she said. “Every time you order something, it’s prepared fresh. When you come into Cafe Cubano, we want you to feel like you’re having authentic Cuban food.”

That care, love and family tradition can be found in the lunch specials of any Cuban sandwich served with Cuban rice for $15. Don’t pass up the chance to savor a classic Cuban sandwich made with ham, Swiss cheese and roasted pork with pickles on freshly baked bread. Or, enjoy the dinner special Cuban bowl, featuring your choice of steak, chicken or pork for $15. Dishes come served complete with a side of fresh plantains.

Bon Vivant: Bon Vivant’s green juices are squeezed in-house with kale, spinach, pear, celery and other fruit juices.

SMOOTHIES BUY ONE GET ONE 1/2 OFF

HEALTH SHOTS BUY ONE GET ONE 1/2 OFF $6 OFF ANY VARIETY 6 PACK JUICE BOTTLED

CHIA PUDDING BOWL BUY ONE GET ONE 1/2 OFF

MUST MENTION RESTAURNAT WEEK SPECIALS

CULVER’S 7542 W. GRAND AVENUE

02/22- $3 Concrete Mixers with 1 topping

02/23- $3.50 Single Cheeseburgers

02/24- $2 off Dinners

02/25- $2 1-Scoop Frozen Custard with one topping

02/26- $5 Family Fries

LUNCH SPECIALS

SERVED WITH A SOFT DRINK & SCOOP OF GELATO CHOICE OF ONE MEATBALL SANDWICH WITH FRIES $10 ALBACORE TUNA PANINI WITH FRIES $11

CHEESE RAVIOLI WITH VODKA SAUCE $14

SERVED WITH ONE GLASS OF RED OR WHITE HOUSE WINE AND A SCOOP OF GELATO

CHICKEN SCALLOPINI SERVED WITH MUSHROOMS, ONIONS AND SPINACH IN A TOUCH OF RED SAUCE $18

PORK CHOP CALABRESE IN A WHITE WINE SAUCE WITH SPICY CHERRY PEPPERS & POTATOES

Enjoy a medianoche (midnight)

sandwich from Cafe Cubano — a Cuban staple lled with roasted pork, ham and cheese on so , Cuban bread made in-house.

Bon Vivant Juice & Smoothie Bar.

7334 W. Diversey Ave.

These days, smoothie bowls and juice cleanses are all the rage.

Health is wealth, so why not lean into that inner voice telling you to eat more fruits and vegetables and check out Bon Vivant, which focuses entirely on wellness and eating “green.”

Bon Vivant, which began as a traveling food truck in 2017, opened its first brick and mortar location in Elmwood Park in August 2021 after owner Vanessa Alviso and her wife, Jasmin Ortiz, noticed a lack of similar options available in the area.

“We’re a one-stop shop for clean eating in Elmwood Park,” Alviso said. “Our stuff is 100% natural and fresh. A lot of smoothie

and juice places are not, and we don’t use any additives or sweeteners — it’s all fresh or our own frozen fruit.”

During Dine-In Elmwood Park, enjoy $10 any three- to seven-day detox cleanse, and buy one get one half off deals on fruit smoothies, health shots (turmeric and ginger juices) and chia pudding bowls. All smoothies and bowls are made natural, with no added sugar and no added powders.

Customers must mention “Restaurant Week” for discounts.

For the full list of participating restaurants and deals, visit elmwoodpark.org/ restaurantweek/

3 Tacos of your choice w/ rice, beans, Jarrito/ can drink/bottled water & Churros $17

Macho Nachos with choice of meat & Jarrito/

RED SNAPPER FRANCAISE SERVED WITH SPINACH $22 Celebrating

Meatless Macho Nachos & Jarrito/can drink/ bottled water & Churros $14

30% off Brunch w/ a

7530 W. G

ENCHILADA DINNER $12

HICKEN CHICKEN MOLE PLATE $12

TORTILLAS

FOR

WESTWOOD DRIVE

DonnyG’s: Donny G’s pork chop Calabrese features a white wine sauce with spicy cherry peppers and potatoes.

RIDING SEASON BEGINS

from page 1

in, developed a housing plan for the village, among other municipalities, in 2012 with a grant from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.

Now 11 years later, the village will be conducting its own study, exclusive to Oak Park, to moder nize the plan. To do this, the village board approved a contract Feb. 6 in an amount not to exceed of $75,000 with the Metropolitan Mayors Caucus to conduct the study, which will identify the top housing issues facing Oak Park by taking into account resident input and such qualitative factors as demo graphics, age, housing stock, diversity of housing types, recent market activity, vacancy and housing af fordability. The results of the study, which is expected to start this June and end the following March, will shape housing policy. A final re port will be presented to the village board.

poration, which hopes to receive $450,000 to purchase eight to 10 condo units and convert them into af fordable multi-family rental housing, and West Cook YMCA. The latter requested $125,000 to renovate its housing units and elevator, as well as to provide housing rental assistance.

The cumulative total of the five requests is $1.8 million. The requests have not been granted, as the village board was merely discussing them and made no vote

Perhaps the biggest discussion during the Feb. 13 meeting, related to housing, were possibilities for increasing revenue in the affordable housing trust, beyond the inclusionary zoning ordinance. The village’s IZO requires developments in transit-oriented areas to make 10% of units affordable to renters making 60% of the area median income or the developers can contribute $100,000 per unit into the affordable housing fund.

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

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

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

A safe & smart choice.

A safe & smart choice.

A safe & smart choice.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

We would be honored for your family to be part of ours. Immediate availability in our Memory Care Assisted Living Small House

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

OF OUR CALEDONIA STAFF IS VACCINATED

The second leg of recent housing discussions took place at the Feb. 13 village board meeting, where staf f presented a list of proposals from community organizations looking to fund af fordable housing programs with the money accumulated in the Oak Park af fordable housing trust fund, some $3.2 million. The village issued a call for such proposals last August, and five organizations applied, including Housing Forward with a request for $658,082 over three years to subsidize crisis housing and rental supports for unsheltered families and transition-aged youth. Two sites, 12 Washington Blvd. and 232 N. Euclid Ave., have already been earmarked.

The Oak Park Homelessness Coalition requested $251,341 dispersed over two years to fund a flexible rental program for households below 50% of the area median income. The program would serve roughly 60 households per year.

One of the village’s oldest housing organizations, the Oak Park Re gional Housing Center, put in a request for $200,000 to fund a full-time office manager and a full-time grants manager. OPRHC also requested a loan of $150,000 for cash flow assistance.

The final two organizations to put in requests are the Oak Park Residence Cor-

Because no new housing developments are on the horizon at this time, there is currently no revenue coming into the affordable housing fund. Options to bring in revenue include raising the hotel and motel tax from 4% to 5%, with 1% of the proceeds going into the af fordable housing fund and the remaining revenue going toward the Oak Park tourism bureau Visit Oak Park as usual. That 1% could bring in $1 million to the af fordable housing fund over 10 years.

Another option that resulted in wariness from the village board is a potential demolition tax, which would attach a $5,000 fee to demolition permits issued. This would bring in roughly $200,000 to the af fordable housing fund in 10 years, but the board was hesitant to go this route, not wanting to punish residents who may have to demolish homes due to fires or other disasters.

The idea to add a dollar to the real estate transfer tax, making it $9 for every $1,000, was likewise unsatisfactory to the board. This is the only option that would require a ballot referendum and is expected to bring in $5.3 million over 10 years. The final option to raise revenue is to increase the licensing fees for multi-family buildings with four or more units to $30 and multifamily buildings with three or less units to $15 with $10 and $5 respectively going into the fund, bringing in an approximate total of $335,740 and $9,820 in a decade.

The village board directed staf f to gather more information re garding the options and retur n to the board at a later date

The results of the study, which is expected to start this June and end the following March, will shape housing polic y.

Can ‘dry precinct’ in city on North Ave. allow restaurants serving alcohol?

Debate over requests from two proposed restaurants

By FRANCIA GARCIA HERNANDEZ Austin Talks

A group of Austin residents shared mixed views about two proposed North Avenue restaurants requesting liquor licenses that would allow consumption on site.

The owners shared their vision for the restaurants Thursday during a community meeting org anized by 29th Ward Ald. Chris Taliafer ro

The businesses plan to open on the city side of Nor th Avenue, between Austin and Melvina avenues Both business owners assured a group of about 50 residents they only want to bring a great dining experience to the West Side

“I wanted a fine dining restaurant on the West Side,” said Mary Proietti, chef and owner of Potluc “We have no intention to

have drunk people.”

Potluc was one of three Austin projects awarded a city grant last year. The finedining, family-style restaurant plans on opening at 6004 W. North Ave., while Urban Smoke Café, a family-style restaurant serving g rilled and smoked food, will occupy the space at 6134-38 W. North Ave.

Both restaurants want to serve alcoholic beverages during their operating hours, the business owners said. But the precinct where they will be located was voted “dry” thanks to a state law that allows voters in the city of Chicago to prohibit businesses from getting liquor licenses in an entire precinct

A few residents said the restaurants, which are requesting a consumption onpremises license to sell alcoholic beverages, violate the “dry precinct” they worked to get approved in the late 1990s.

According to the Illinois Liquor Control Act of 1934, no liquor licenses can be issued if a precinct has been voted dry Chicago’s Business Af fairs and Consumer Protection

Department advises business owners to check with the case managers if their proposed business location is “dry.”

Taliafer ro said the precinct will remain dry, however, liquor moratoriums allow restaurants to sell alcoholic beverages for consumption on their premises during business hours.

He emphasized both businesses are requesting from the city a consumption onpremises-incidental activity liquor license, which is granted to businesses that will not sell alcohol as their primary activity, such as hotels, banquet halls, restaurants and theaters.

Omar Bryant, owner of Urban Smoke Cafe and a veteran, said he attended culinary school after retiring from the U.S. military, and is known for doing events featuring his food in his home on the West Side.

Taliafer ro said he “was very critical” of Bryant, saying he often received complaints of noise, littering and disturbance from Bryant’s neighbors

But the alder man said Bryant has im-

proved and deserves an opportunity, adding he ag reed to open under an “operational ag reement” stipulating certain conditions covering hours of operation, security and cleanliness.

Bryant told residents he “is looking forward,” and all he wants to do is “make people happy” by of fering a place where residents can have a good time without leaving their community

Bertha Frazier, who has lived in the neighborhood for 35 years, said she supports the restaurants opening and selling alcoholic beverages. She ag rees with Taliafer ro, who said both restaurants are a “g reat opportunity” to bring economic benefits to the ward by encouraging local residents to dine locally.

“I’m tired of going outside my community [to eat],” she said.

Frazier was one of more than a dozen residents who expressed support for the restaurants during last week’s meeting, adding they would like to see the community support Black-owned businesses

Prospective Forest Park cannabis shop promises security Justice Cannabis hopes to open the Bloc dispensary by summer

By IGOR STUDENKOV Staff Reporter

The operators of the Bloc cannabis dispensary, which they’re looking to open inside the for mer CVS building, 25 S. Harlem Ave., said they want to do more than just sell cannabis – they want to benefit the community.

Emerald Coast, which will own the Forest Park dispensary, hired Chicago-based Justice Cannabis Co., to handle the actual operations of Bloc The company was founded with the goal of doing its part to make the cannabis industry just and equitable. As part of that, they plan to give priority to local residents when it comes to hiring and to also volunteer in the village. It will be open from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. on weekdays and 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. on weekends.

Justice Cannabis spokesperson Lissa

Druss emphasized that they take security seriously – something that, she argued would benefit the entire area, including the nearby CTA and Metra stations Because cannabis dispensaries are a conditional zoning use, Emerald Coast will go before the Forest Park Planning & Zoning Commission on Feb. 21, and then to the village council for final approval of its plan. Druss said that, if the council approves the application, they expect to open in around 5-6 months

Emerald Coast is co-owned by Justin Frankel of Katohan, N.Y., Alan Dordek of Wilmette, Tyrone Har ris of Bellwood, and Mathew Jose ph Hagglund of Nor mal. Under Illinois law, cer tain applicants, known as the “social equity justice involved” applicants, get a se parate lottery for dispensary licenses, which increases their chances of qualifying. As veterans, Hagglund

and Dordek fall under that category.

Emerald Coast got two conditional dispensary licenses on July 22, 2022. It has about six months to secure locations and get any necessary zoning approvals.

Justice Cannabis has a cannabis cultivation facility in Edgewood, IL, and it operates multiple dispensaries in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Massachusetts, Missouri, Utah and Michigan. It is cur rently working with several companies to open dispensaries in the Chicago area. The dispensaries are all called “Bloc” because, Druss said, they wanted to emphasize the communityorientated nature of their business.

She said that Hagglund, who she described as a “primary owner,” approached them to operate their dispensaries

“He’s a first-time business owner, and he wants to make sure that he runs the highest, most-exclusive, perfect high-end busi-

ness possible,” Druss said. “He’s really excited about being a business owner and doing it the right way, and that’s why he fits so well with Justice Cannabis.”

She said that Justice Cannabis chose the location, mentioning its “ample parking” and its location on the Harlem Avenue cor ridor, near the three-way Forest Park/ Oak Park/River Forest border While she didn’t mention it, the location is near the Harlem/Lake CTA Green Line station and Union Pacific West Metra Line’s Oak Park station, as well as multiple CTA and Pace bus routes

Druss said the business will only take up 5,000 sq. ft. of the CVS building. There will be “30-40 cameras” and security guards inside and outside the building.

“This is going to be bring much-added security to the for mer CVS location, which becomes a deter rent of crime,” she said.

One semester in, OPRF assesses impact of new frosh curriculum

Honors focus drops A grades for Black students by 5%

By BOB SKOLNIK

Contributing Reporter

Black freshmen ear ned almost 5% fewer A grades in the recently completed first semester at Oak Park and River Forest High School than they did one year ago. This comes in the first year of OPRF’s revised freshman curriculum which mostly eliminates the College Prep track, which was a mid-level or average track, and now puts most freshmen in Honors level classes

In the first semester 21.8% of the grades Black freshmen ear ned were A’s compared to 26.6% in 2021-22 according to a report presented to the OPRF school board at its Feb. 9 Committee of the Whole meeting Black OPRF freshmen also ear ned slightly fewer B grades with the new curriculum this year dropping to 28% this year from 28.9% in 2021-22.

Black freshmen received more C grades this year jumping to 33.1% of all grades compared to 27.7% a year ago. D grades for Black freshmen decreased slightly dropping to 11% this year from 11.3% a year ago, but F grades for Black freshmen increased to 4.6% this year up from 3.5% a year ago.

Assistant Superintendent for Student Lear ning Laurie Fiorenza told the school board that the grade distribution this year was not a cause for concer n noting that many more students are taking more rigorous Honors classes this year

“When we look at the semester one grade distribution it is consistent with last’s year’s grade distribution, with slight shifts, which is expected given that we have a larger num-

ber of students in the Honors courses renza said. “But by and large most students are passing courses with gr C’s or better across all of the races.”

The grade distribution for whi men did not change very much with freshmen ear ning slightly more A’ this year than last year, 51.5%. The age of B’s ear ned by white students the same at 31.3%, while white students slightly more C’s, 13.2%, compared year, 12.5%. Failing grades by wh dents dropped by 1.2% to just 0.4% this year Asian or Pacific Islander students once again received the highest grades of all racial and ethnic groups although Asian freshmen ear ned significantly fewer A’s, 60.3%, than one year ago when 77.1% of all grades for Asian freshmen were A’s. The number of Asian students at OPRF is relatively low so the report advises interpreting the data for Asian students with caution. Corresponding with the drop in A’s for Asian freshmen this year the number of B’s received by Asian freshmen rose significantly this year increasing to 34.5% this past semester up from just 14.3% last year C’s accounted for only 3.4% of the grades ear ned by Asian freshmen while D’s accounted for only 1.7% of grades Asian freshmen ear ned this year Apparently, no Asian freshman at OPRF received an F last semester.

Grades for Hispanic OPRF freshman didn’t change much this year. Both this year and last year 38.7% of grades Hispanic freshmen ear ned were A’s. Hispanic freshmen received slightly fewer B’s, 36% this year, and C’s, 16.7%, this year compared to last year dropping 1.9% and 1.8% respectively The percentage of D’s and F’s received by Hispanic freshmen increased this year to 4.8% and 3.6% respec-

tively compared to 3.3% and 1.6% last year

School board member Ralph Martire repeated the point he made a few months ago when first quarter freshman grade distributions were presented to the board that it is much too soon to draw any reliable conclusions about the impact of the revamping of the freshman curriculum.

“We as a board going forward have to manage the expectations of the community that just because we changed the program on freshman curriculum in year one, in year three we’re not going to magically see an elimination of outcome gaps,” Martire said. “What we’re hoping to see along the way is some incremental progress as we monitor implementation to ensure that it’s being done with fidelity with best practices.”

Overall 44.4% of the grades issued to OPRF freshmen last semester were A’s, 31.2% were B’s, 17.6% were C’s, 4.6% were D’s and 1.6% were F’s.

Fiorenza said that the revamped, mostly Honors, curriculum is putting a lot of stress on teachers as they try to meet the needs of a wide range of students in the same classroom.

“There are still challenges meeting the needs of a wide range of lear ners,” Fiorenza said.

Teachers are working long hours trying to develop lesson plans to meet the needs of all of their students

“So as a result of that the administration is prioritizing the monitoring and providing enough support for teachers so they maintain that healthy balance of work and home

life which is challenging given this new initiative and the amount of the time that they’re spending, really working on this,” Fiorenza said.

Fiorenza said she is working to develop professional development opportunities to help teachers deal with the challenges presented by the new curriculum.

“We’re going to continue to listen to our teachers and create those opportunities for them to get the time they need to collaborate and the professional lear ning that they need around differentiation and meeting the needs of a range of lear ners,” Fiorenza said.

Fiorenza said she will probably request a reduction in class size for sophomore classes next year to reduce the burden on teachers. Some sophomore class sizes could be reduced to approximately 24 students per class from the current 28.

“Four students makes a huge difference in a classroom,” said school board member Gina Harris, who is herself an educator.

A major goal of the revamped freshman curriculum is to get more Black students on the Honors track. Fiorenza said that incomplete data from course registration for next year indicates that approximately 40 more students than a year ago have signed up to take Honors classes as sophomores next year.

“There are increases, are they hundreds of kids, no, but 40 more is 40 more so that’s encouraging,” Fiorenza said adding that she does not yet have a demo graphic breakdown of the students signing up for Honors classes as sophomores

“When we look at the semester one grade distribution it is consistent with last ’s year ’s grade distribution, with slight shif ts, which is expec ted given that we have a larger number of students in the Honors courses.”

LAURIE FIORENZA Assistant Superintendent for Student Learning

Oak Park & River Forest

Meet Your Candidates Live and in person

Wednesday Journal is hosting two Candidate Forums

OPRF D200 Board Candidates

This Thursday evening

Feb. 16 at 7 p.m.

Dominican University • Martin Recital Hall

7900 W. Division St., River Forest

Moderated by Charlie Meyerson

Publisher of Chicago Public Square

NEW DATE AND TIME

March 16 at 7 p.m.

Oak Park Village Hall Council Chambers

123 Madison St., Oak Park

Moderated by Doris Davenport

“The Doris Davenport Show” on WPNA (AM1490)

Oak Park Village Board Candidates Find

PRESENTED BY:

Timothy Brandhorst Graham Brisben

Jonathan Livingston Brian Souders

Simone Boutet

Susan Buchanan

Jim Taglia

Cory Wesley

Brian Straw

REFUGEE SHABBAT

Welcoming the stranger

from page 1

gether to resettle an Afghan refug ee family His story included having to move the family from their first apartment because of an infestation of bedbugs and delays in getting Link cards from the gover nment so the refugee family could buy food

“As I looked to source help for the refugee family,” he recalled, “I was impressed very quickly with how wonderfully willing people were to help on a moment’s notice The aid provided came from people with a family history of being refugees, commonality of language, and religious calling, intertwined with a cultural refugee history.”

Rabbi Adir Glick based his ser mon on the story from Exodus in which Moses, speaking for God, says to the people of Israel, “You shall not wrong or oppress a resident alien, for you were aliens in the land of Egypt.”

That verse in the Torah resonates deeply with the Jewish community because of its long history of having to flee persecution and start life over in a new land.

Zmora also talked about the extensive network of volunteer organizations who cooperated to get the job of resettlement done with financial aid from gover nment programs Phyllis Rubin, an WSTHZ member and the emcee at the gathering, spent half an hour acknowledging the many local groups who are helping to resettle refugees most of

whom had representatives at the event. In a sense, her acknowledgments became one more iteration of “it takes a village.”

■ Oak Park Catholic parishes have started the Intercultural Immigrant Ministry to welcome refugees Together, they have sponsored one immigrant family of four people from Venezuela.

■ Pilgrim Congregational Church has helped to set up apartments and provide

baby supplies for incoming refugees in collaboration with Exodus World Service, and has recently partnered with Grace Lutheran Church in River Forest to co-sponsor a refugee family of six from the Democratic Republic of Congo, brought to Chicago by RefugeeOne

■ Oak Park Temple sponsored a Syrian refugee family that resettled in Chicago after a decade spent in Jordan. Their agency partner was RefugeeOne, and the family settled in Rogers Park. Rabbi Daniel Kirzane said his congregation “has also participated in state-wide and national advocacy campaigns, most recently in (maddeningly unsuccessful) support of the Afghan Adjustment Act.”

■ Housing Forward, has recently reopened an over night shelter for the homeless at the St. Catherine-St Lucy rectory building on Austin Boulevard. Currently, most seeking shelter are from Venezuela, sent from Texas The census ranges from 15 to 25 people per night. During the day, some of the guests spend time at the Quinn Center of St. Eulalia, in Maywood

■ St. Luke and St. Ber nardine Parish held a collection for the Asylum Seekers, in which they collected $2,100, which was sent to Catholic Charities, as requested by the Archdiocese of Chicago.

■ To help HIAS (Hebrew Immigrant Aid Society) welcome refugee families, the Secular Jewish Community and School (SJCS)

Social Justice Committee organized an

apartment set-up household items drive HIAS Immigration & Citizenship, founded to assist Easter n European Jewish immigrants in the early 1900s, has expanded over time to address the needs of various immigrant groups from around the world in the last 40 years. They have assisted over 40,000 immigrants and refugees from the For mer Soviet Union, Easter n Europe, the Middle East, Southeast Asia, and Latin America.

■ Temple Har Zion’s preschool families and the congregation have sponsored an Afghan family: a mom, dad, and two children, housed now in Skokie, and furnished their apartment.

The second featured speaker at the Refugee Shabbat was Marc Schulman, president of Eli’s Cheesecake Company in Chicago, who testified how a for-profit business can be part of the network in the mission of resettling refugees Coincidentally, Secretary of State Antony Blinken visited the cheesecake bakery just two weeks before the Refugee Shabbat. In an email, Blinken said:

“Thirty percent of the team here is a refugee coming from some other distant part of the world [the Congo, Syria, Afghanistan, Kosovo], coming to the United States and making their future here. It’s an incredibly powerful thing to see as you walk down the line and talk to people who are coming from all over the world, coming to the United States as their beacon of hope, and then making their future here.

“As Marc Schulman told me and would tell you, this is not a work of charity to bring people here to work at Eli’s it’s a core part of the business

“It doesn’t just happen, though, magically. It takes the extraordinary commitment of a great company. It takes the incredible work of our resettlement agencies to help connect refugees with places of work. And here RefugeeOne has been such an amazing partner to Eli’s and to so many others; we’re grateful for that.

“The Department of State, in collaboration with the Department of Health and Human Services, is pleased to announce the creation of the Welcome Corps, a new private sponsorship program that empowers everyday Americans to play a leading role in welcoming refugees arriving through the U.S. Refugee Admissions Program (USRAP) and supporting their resettlement and integration as they build new lives in the United States The Welcome Corps is the boldest innovation in refugee resettlement in four decades.”

Between the service and the speakers, the 50 people in attendance at Refugee Shabbat were treated to a buffet at which they could sample several kinds of Afghan food

SARA JANZ

Michael Zmora speaks during Refugee Shabbat at Temple Har Zion in River Forest on Friday, Feb. 3.

SARA JANZ

Members of Chicago-area religious organizations working to resettle refugees gather for dinner at Temple Har Zion’s Refugee Shabbat.

Eat the unknown: Kayiana at George’s

Eggs in Purgator y and the Unknown Wish

By DAVID HAMMOND Oak Park Eats Blog

When I spy a menu item I don’t reco gnize, that’s what I order; whatever it turns out to be, it will certainly be new and maybe I’ll lear n something; plus, who knows, it might even be delicious.

Last Saturday at George’s Restaurant on Oak Park Avenue, the dish I ordered — because I’d never heard of it — was kayiana.

Turns out, kayiana is simply three scrambled eggs, feta cheese, onions, and tomatoes — nothing unusual here. In fact, these are such common household items, I might have made something like this myself without ever knowing that it was a traditional Greek breakfast food. Salty feta complements the more neutral eggs, the onions provide acidity to balance the richness, and the tomatoes add color and sweetness. Eggs and cheese are also complete proteins, and tomatoes are fruit, so kayiana is a good way to start the day; I’m glad I ordered it.

Kayiana (also called kayianas or strapasada) seems to have originated in the Peloponnese area ofsouthern Greece (though this would have happened sometime after 1492 when New World tomatoes arrived in the Old World). Kayiana is related to shakshuka, a traditional North African dish of eggs poached in red sauce with olive oil, peppers, onion, garlic and maybe paprika, cumin and cayenne pepper. We make this dish every Christmas morning, though we call it Eggs in Purgatory; it’s an Italian American/ Catholic thing, with eggs representing souls in purgatory, suspended between heaven and hell. Okay, not exactly an appetizing concept, but it’s family tradition.

Ordering food without knowing exactly what I’m getting has yielded some very good dining experiences … but not always. During my first trip to Mexico City in the ’80s, I went to a student restaurant. My Spanish was shaky, and I didn’t reco gnize many ofthe words on the menu. I decided to take the plunge and order blind. This seemed like a reasonable bet because the only food I really have a hard time enjoying is chitterlings, diced pork intestine. Of course, this unknown dish I ordered was, indeed, diced pork intestine; the servers stood in the kitchen doorway, giggling, to get my reaction: I tried to pretend I was digging it, but I ended up eating only a few ofthe calamari-looking rings of sliced pig guts.

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kitchens, kayiana offers abundant opportunities for variation; I’ve come across kayiana recipes that include adding olives, different herbs, perhaps some ham or bacon, and many kinds of cheese besides feta. It’s all good; the deep structure ofall kayiana preparations is the same: eggs + cheese + tomato

According to Italian tradition, when you’ re lucky enough to try food you’ve never had before, you’ve earned the right to make a wish. Although I’m all in favor of trying new foods, I always make the same old wish.

But that wish, of course, will remain unknown.

PHOTO BY DAVID HAMMOND

Kayiana at George’s

Witness stops burglary

A woman braved having a gun pointed at her while stopping a burglary at Fitzgerald’s Fine Stationery, 111 N. Marion St.

At 7 p.m., Feb. 7, the woman heard banging in the rear of the business, where her vehicle was parked, and found two male teenagers using a tool to hit an “unknown object,” according to police. When the two burglars saw her, one pulled a black handgun from his waistband and pointed at the woman, who subsequently left the area and called 911.

Police were already responding to the call, having been alerted by the shop’s security alarm, and found a safe belonging to Fitzgerald’s in the alley. The shop’s rear door had also been damaged

The safe was returned to the business with no loss re ported. The cost of damage to the door is unknown.

Burglary

■ Someone broke into a residential garage then removed the victim’s 2014 Kia Optima between 1:30 p.m. and 4:30 p.m., Feb. 12, in the 300 block of North Cuyler

Avenue. Chicago police later recovered the vehicle in an alley behind the 1100 block of North Mason Avenue in Chicago.

■ Someone broke into an apar tment by prying open the front door, then ransacked the place and removed a black gun safe, which contained $900 in cash, a crypto ledger and personal documents, between 1 p.m. and 4 p.m., Feb. 9, in the 400 block of Washington Boulevard. The total estimated loss is $11,600.

■ Someone broke the rear window of a 2005 Dodge Ram 1500 then removed miscellaneous tools from inside the vehicle between 10:15 p.m., Feb. 8, and 6:50 a.m., Feb. 9, in the 1100 block of Washington Boulevard

■ Someone forced open a red 2016 Chevrolet Express parked in the 1150 block of South Clinton Avenue between 12 p.m. and 12:25 p.m., Feb. 7, and removed from its interior a red and black Milwaukee tool case, containing a red and black Milwaukee Sawzall, a red and black Milwaukee hammer drill, a red and black Milwaukee impact drill, a red and black Milwaukee fine saw and six rechargeable Milwaukee batteries. The estimated loss is $1,900.

Motor vehicle theft

■ A 2020 Jeep Cherokee was removed from a lot in the 700 block of Garfield Street between 2 p.m. and 7 p.m., Feb. 10.

■ A 2017 Kia Optima was removed from the 700 block of Lake Street between 5:15 p.m. and 5:30 p.m., Feb. 10.

■ Someone removed a 2015 Hyundai Sonata parked in the 300 block of Wisconsin Avenue between 4 p.m., Feb. 7, and 7:59 a.m., Feb. 8. The estimated loss is $12,000. The vehicle was recovered with a broken rear passenger’s side window and a pulled ignition by Chicago police at 6 p.m., Feb. 8, in the 400 block of West 97th Place in Chicago.

■ A gray 2021 Kia Sportage was removed from the 1000 block of Pleasant Street between 7:05 p.m. and 10:02 p.m., Feb. 7. Chicago police recovered the vehicle, which had been involved in an accident, in the 2300 block of North Cicero Avenue in Chicago at 1:27 a.m., Feb. 8.

■ A Hyundai Sonata was removed from the 100 block of North Kenilworth Avenue between 1 p.m., Feb. 5, and 9 a.m., Feb. 6. Chicago police later recovered the vehicle in the 4000 block of Drexel Avenue in Chicago without apprehension.

Theft

■ Someone removed security cameras from a condominium building in the 200 block of North Grove Avenue between 6 p.m., Jan. 24, and 8 a.m., Jan. 25. The estimated loss is $505.

■ A secured Giant Revel 2 bicycle was taken from a bicycle rack in the 400 block of South Ridgeland Avenue between 8:45 a.m. and 3 p.m., Feb. 6. The estimated loss is $600.

■ The catalytic converter was cut from a black 2007 Toyota Prius parked in the 500 block of Gunderson Avenue between 5 p.m., Jan. 17, and 2 p.m., Feb. 4.

■ A 16-foot ladder was taken from an Oak Park resident’s yard in the 1500 block of North Austin Boulevard between 3:55 a.m. and 4 a.m., Feb. 6.

These items obtained from Oak Park Police Department reports, Feb. 6-13, represent a portion of the incidents to which police responded. Anyone named in these reports has only been charged with a crime and cases have not yet been adjudicated. We report the race of a suspect only when a serious crime has been committed, the suspect is still at large, and police have provided us with a detailed physical description of the suspect as they seek the public’s help in making an arrest

Compiled by Stacey Sheridan

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Gunderson wins historic preser vation award

Matt Eade (le ) originally env isioned a renovated 828 Gunderson Ave. as “moder n farmhouse style: black and white everywhere.” What he ended up completing was a sensitive rehab embracing the home’s S.T. Gunderson & Sons roots not only on the exterior (above) but also inside

house with new, standard-width flooring, but he wanted to keep the original flooring.

It took a special order and a delay of five weeks to get the custom flooring, pushing back cabinet installation and painting, but now that he’s on the other end of the project, Eade says it was worth it to keep with the historic style.

Throughout the house, Eade made similar decisions, choosing to rehabilitate original windows with their distinctive diamond pattern. Pedestals

originally located between the home’s double parlors were saved. He noticed that they bore markings where columns might have been, so Eade salvaged some columns to use atop the pedestals. They now stand marking the entrance from the foyer to the front living room.

He sought out more salvaged materials to add back some of the character that had disappeared See GUNDERSON on pa ge 20

GUNDERSON Painstaking process

from page 19

from the house since it was built in 1908. He found six-paneled doors to match the original doors in every room and purchased antique light fixtures for many rooms as well.

A living room fireplace surround was sourced from the daughter of a Chicago firefighter who told Eade her father saved the antique piece from a building that was being torn down. New stainedglass windows were inspired by original stainedglass windows that remained in the house

Along with adding the character back to the house, Eade updated other areas, such as a modern kitchen that opens to a new family room. A mudroom features custom cabinetry.

On the second floor, he created a primary suite with its own bathroom and updated the hall bathroom with tile that features the Greek key pattern original to the hall bath.

Originally, Eade had no plans to tackle the exterior of the house, but when porch re pairs necessitated removing some of the vinyl siding, he noticed that the original wood siding was in fairly good condition, so he made the decision to remove the vinyl and restore the original wood.

No good deed goes unpunished, however, and he says that once the vinyl was removed, it was clear that quite a bit of re pair had to be done on the sides of the house. He found a supplier in Indiana who could exactly match the original wood.

Eade used an infrared paint stripper to peel away decades of paint to reveal the original exterior color scheme. He color-matched the paint and re painted the home in the original shade of green with red trim.

“When I came into this project, it was all going to be modern far mhouse style: black and white everywhere,” Eade said. “But the more I learned, I just couldn’t do it.”

After moving into the house last September, Eade acknowledges he still has projects on his to-do list including a deck, storm windows and landscaping, but he has plenty of time to tackle the next steps.

For both Eade and his general contractor, this was their first project of such a large scope in an historic home, and he says there was a learning curve involved. Add in lumber and labor shortages due to the pandemic and rising costs of materials, and he says the restoration was both financially and personally a painstaking process.

“Immediately after we’d finished, I don’t know if I’d say it was worth it,” he said with a rueful laugh. “The saying that time heals all wound is very true though, and now I think it was worthwhile.”

Eade brought some areas of the home, like the open plan kitchen/family room (top), fully into the contemporar y era while sourcing elements recalling the home’s 1908 roots, like the vintage replace surround (le ) in the liv ing room and bathroom oor tile (above) featuring the same Greek key patter n as the original.

Oak Park home sells for $1,025,000

The following property transfers were re ported by the Cook County Clerk from November 2022. Where addresses appear incomplete, for instance where a unit number appears missing, that information was not provided by the clerk.

OA K P ARK

FOREST

Trinity basketball o to roaring postseason start

Blazers rout CICS/Nor thtown 49-5 in regional semi nals

By MELVIN TATE Contributing Reporter

Trinity High School’s basketball team opened postseason play Feb. 13 with a 49-5 rout of CICS/Northtown Feb. 13 in an IHSA regional semifinal game at Prosser High School, in Chicago.

Lauren Miller led the Blazers with 11 points and eight rebounds while Jaylani Her nandez and Sophia Rodriguez each had 9 points.

The Blazers meet Elmwood Park, which defeated Prosser 40-33, for the regional title Feb. 16 at 7 p.m. Trinity is the top seed in the IHSA Class 3A Trinity Sectional.

Trinity High School closed out a good regular season in grand style on Senior Night Feb. 8 against visiting St. Laurence.

After a sluggish first half that saw them trailing by 10 points, the Blazers outscored the Vikings 41-17 over the final 16 minutes to prevail 51-37. The victory was Trinity’s 20th of the season, a goal coach Kim Coleman was hoping to accomplish.

“It wasn’t a pretty win,” she said. “But I’m

proud of getting to 20.”

“We realized at halftime that our energy needed to be better,” said Trinity forward Lauren Miller, who had a game-high 16 points (11 in the second half). “We needed to step it up.”

Ciarra Richardson scored 10 of her 12 points in the second half against St. Laurence and believes the Blazers (21-11) are ready for an extended postseason run.

“I’m confident in my teammates and I know we can make great plays,” she said.

Fenwick heads into postseason

Fenwick High School had an up-and-down regular season in coach Lenae Fergerson’s debut. However, things ended on a positive note with a 50-35 home victory over Proviso West on Senior Night on Feb. 9.

Leading 21-15 at halftime, the Friars started the third quarter with an 11-0 run to break things open.

Allie Heyer added 11 points for Fenwick (15-16), which began IHSA state tour nament play in the Class 3A Trinity Sectional on Feb. 14 after Wednesday Jour nal’s print deadline

The No 3-seeded Friars played No 13 Senn in the regional semifinal round. The winner

faces the winner of the Amundsen-Mather matchup in the regional final on Feb. 17 at Amundsen High School in Chicago.

“It’s win or go home at this point; we can’t be sloppy and we’ve got to tighten up our stuff and focus,” Fergerson said. “They know there’s no next time, this is it.”

Fergerson believes defense, rebounding, and taking the care of the ball will be Fenwick’s keys to postseason success. But the Friars also need to avoid scoring droughts, which has happened frequently this season.

“It’s hard if you can’t score,” Fergerson said.

“We definitely need to move the ball more (offensively). We’ve struggled with that,” added Brusca. “Our defense has been pretty good, and we need to keep that up.”

Kenwood ends OPRF’s season

Oak Park and River Forest High School ended its season with an 86-42 loss to host Kenwood Academy, the top seed in the IHSA Class 4A Proviso East Sectional, on Feb. 13 in an IHSA regional semifinal matchup

It was a challenging winter for the Huskies, who notched just two wins for the season.

“Our girls came out every day and worked hard, and I thank them for their efforts,”

said OPRF coach Carlton Rosemond. “They lear ned a lot about perseverance, which will serve them well in the future.”

OPRF (2-30) closed out the season playing some its best basketball. The Huskies got their first win of the season on Jan. 30, a 4644 victory at home over Riverside-Brookfield The second win came on Feb. 11 when the Huskies defeated Kelly 45-34 in an IHSA Class 4A play-in game.

On Feb. 7, OPRF nearly got a third win when junior Taylor Smith hit a game-tying 3-pointer at the end of regulation in a West Suburban Conference crossover game at Proviso East.

But the Pirates scored in the final seconds of double overtime to hand the Huskies a 5655 defeat. Senior Libby Majka led OPRF with 14 points and senior Lauren Kelly added 13.

“That was a tough, back-and-forth game,” Rosemond said. “We had it won a few times, they had it won a few times. They got us at the end.”

With some young promising talent in the program’s lower levels, Rosemond hopes there are better days ahead for OPRF

“We’ve got some good freshmen and sophomores, and I’m optimistic about our future,” he said.

Magical moments rekindle passion for high school spor ts

The reason for me becoming a freelance spor ts re por ter for Wednesday

Jour nal back in 2017 was my deep passion for high school athletics. I’m a huge spor ts fan in general; I root for the Chicago pro teams and my college alma mater, the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

But there has always been something magical about high school sports For most student-athletes, high school is likely the final time they’ll be in organized competition, so they’re bound to always give it their best. Plus, the way local communities support their schools -- whether it’s a Friday night football game, a wrestling match, a track meet or a softball game -- is unparalleled

This has long fueled my passion. However, I must admit that in recent weeks, I’ve felt

it waning a bit. Balancing the demands of my full-time jo and my freelance writing can be somewhat challenging.

However, a couple of gi basketball games I covered last week served as reminders of why I write and, frankly, they were much-needed

On Feb. 8, I went to Trinit High School for the Blazers’ game against St. Laurenc I wasn’t initially planning to cover. But something just told me to go, so I did.

And am I ever glad I went.

It was Trinity’s Senior Night and one of its seniors, Mae an injury that will keep her out the rest of

the season. Blazers coach Kim oleman, in what I felt was a onderful gesture, had Lundt suit up and placed in the starting

undt left her crutches on the ench and went on the court for the opening tip. St. Laurence eed with Coleman’s plan for rinity to win it so that the Blazers could pass the ball to Lundt, standing all alone beneath the

a Richardson got the ball to Lundt, who missed her first yup attempts, but then ot the third to go in. The crowd ent wild, and Lundt had tears in her eyes -- but also a huge smile

It was one of the best moments that I have ever seen since I started writing. And it happened again the following night at Fenwick’s game with Proviso West. Friars coach Lenae Fergerson placed senior Melissa Moduca in the starting lineup for Senior Night.

Moduca, who like Lundt is done for the year with an injury, went on the court in her walking boot. Proviso West let Fenwick win the tip and pass the ball to Moduca, standing alone by the basket. She laid it in, and three was a lot of emotion in the fieldhouse gym.

These events have refueled my passion for sports writing, and as March Madness is upon us, I am ready to get busy. Thank you, coaches Coleman and Fergerson, for getting me back on track and reminding why I do what I do.

Let’s roll. Let’s ride

Fenwick sends four to wrestling state meet

McGee, Paris lead the way with 3rd place nishes at sectionals

By MELVIN TATE Contributing Reporter

The Fenwick High School wrestling team advanced four individuals downstate from the IHSA Class 2A Deerfield Sectional on Feb. 10-11, tying a program record set in 2005 for the most state qualifiers in one year.

“It was excellent, above expectations,” said Fenwick coach Seth Gamino “We’ re really excited.”

The Friars’ four state qualifiers came from four consecutive weight classes Sophomore Aidan Bur ns (20-9) finished fourth at 152 pounds, senior Vincent Fioravanti (21-12) was fourth at 160, senior Finn McGee (35-4) came in third at 170 and sophomore Jack Paris (18-7) was third at 182.

After his semifinal loss, Vincent reversed Fenton’s Joey Zuniga in the waning seconds of his wrestleback match to make it to the final four Finn lost to No 3-ranked Aiden Cohen of Deerfield in the semifinals, but he rebounded to earn a state meet ber th in the wrestlebacks by edging De La Salle’s Josue Her nandez 4-3 to advance to

the third-place match.

Gamino was impressed with the poise Paris showed after losing in the semifinals to Sean Christensen of Wauconda. Paris led going into the final period 2-0, but Christensen got a pin to win.

“Jack wears his heart on his sleeve and was really upset,” he said. “I told him we weren’t out of it; he still had to wrestle.”

Paris pinned Matt Elzy of Riverside-Brookfield High School in the wrestleback to advance to the third-place match against Jim Amatore of Niles Notre Dame Paris won that match with a last-second takedown.

Fenwick had two other wrestlers who nar rowly missed advancing downstate by losing their final wrestlebacks. Junior Luke D’Alise lost his final wrestleback match at 195 pounds to De La Salle’s Evan Smith via pin (2:12), and at 220 senior Conor Stetz was pinned by Yaree Sandifer of Lake Forest in 3:31.

Bur ns, Fioravanti, McGee and Paris will compete in the IHSA individual state finals at State Farm Center on the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign campus Feb. 15-17.

OPRF girls wrestling

The Oak Park and River Forest High School girls wrestling team has experienced a rebuild this season, losing six

First-ever girls state nalist for Fenwick bowling

Fenwick High School sophomore ivia Cameron made history Fe the IHSA Hinsdale Central Sectional held at Suburbanite Bowl in mont, becoming the Friars’ firstgirls bowling state qualifier.

Cameron’s score of 1,205 pins the highest among individuals state-qualifying schools She fourth overall.

“Olivia set a goal for a 200 average the day, and she hit that target dot,” said Fenwick coach Judith Tichacek. “Befor the tour nament, we talked about communication between us and we talk out major decisions before

seniors, including five who are wrestling colle giately, from last season.

“We’ re young, we only have one senior [Andrea Muno z],” said OPRF coach Fred Arkin.

But at the sectional meet Feb. 11 at Evanston Township High School, the Huskies saw two girls finish in the top four to advance to the IHSA girls state finals Feb. 24-25 at Grossinger Motors Arena in Bloomington.

At 170 pounds, junior T rinity White (245) finished second, losing to Ileen Castrejon of Zion-Benton in the final via pin at 4:50.

“Trinity went out to the lead, but [Castrejon] came back towards the end of the match and got her,” Arkin said.

At 235 pounds, j unior Sarah Epshtei n (30-4) lost her semifinal to Curie ’s Aaliyah Grandber ry via pin at 5:09, after entering the final period ahead 5-3.

“Sarah controlled most of the match,” Arkin said. “But she couldn’ t quite finis h it of f.”

But she clinched a downstate spot during her final wrestleback by pinning Oak Forest’s Jessica Komolafe in 57 seconds.

Epshtein then defeated Jasmine Mejia of Rickover Naval Academy 4-2 in the third-place match.

“I was impressed with both Trinity and Sarah,” Arkin said. “Their losses came to

girls that finished second in the state last year, and they’re both not far from being the top wrestlers in the state.”

OPRF boys wrestling

T he OPRF boys wrestling team also had two individuals advance to the IHSA state finals from the Class 3A Conant Sectional on Feb. 11.

Freshman Zev Koransky (34-9) received a bye in the first round of the 113-pound bracket but lost 5-3 to Luis F lores of Conant in the quar terfinals, which meant he had to win three consecutive wrestlebacks in order to secure a downstate berth.

First, Koransky pinned Jake Kubycheck of York in just 25 seconds. Next, he edged Lake Park’s Nick Merola 6-5. Finally, Koransky completed the feat with a major decision over Eduardo Castro of DeKalb 10-2.

Though he lost the third-place match to Glenbard Nor th’s Kalani Khiev 8-6, Koransky will be at State Farm Center on the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign campus Feb. 15-17 for the state finals, since he finished in the top four at sectionals

Joining him will be sophomore Joe Knackstedt (34-11). Knackstedt placed second in the 132-pound bracket, losing the final via pin at 5:56 to Sean Berger of York.

match play I think that helped ameron had a high game of 267, Tichacek felt “she really got into the zone that game.”

an keep that same focus during the state tour nament, I think she’ ll ell and surpass that 200 aver” she said.

ameron will bowl in the IHSA state nament Feb. 17-18 at the Cherry ckford.

Hinsdale Central sectional, Trinity ts season with an 11th-place finish in the team standings, amassing 3,439 pins.

— Melvin Tate

PHOTO S BY VISUA

OLIVIA C AMERON

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Ken Trainor at 613-3310

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What happened to civility?

Every now and then I receive a note or a phone call from a Wednesday Journal Viewpoint reader

For the most part, my polite followers flatter me

That said, I have received a few nasty comments. I received a call from an unidentified woman at 7:15 a.m., the morning after the State of the Union Address. She called to say that she knows I will write something “ter rible” against “a true American Re publican woman, Marjorie Taylor Greene, who spoke truth.” Before I could respond, she hung up!

My early-mor ning caller was rect about my plan to write resswoman Greene and criticize her behavior during the State of the Union Address. I was appalled by her inappropriate outburst, disrupting the President’s address to the nation. I do not agree with Greene’s comments, though of her right to

A gun buyback program ts Oak Park

At last week’s village board meeting, Oak Park Village President Vicki Scaman proclaimed Feb. 1-7 as National Gun Violence Survivors Week in Oak Park, which was approved by the trustees. This proclamation energizes those of us working hard to end gun violence because it communicates that gun violence, its victims and survivors are important. They’re so impor tant that the village of Oak Park and the community should dedicate time, energy and resources to address the issues and needs.

How can we as a village and individuals respond to this proclamation to make a dif ference for survivors?

We can:

■ Listen to survivors’ stories and learn from those providing services to survivors. Some survivor stories can be found at https:// momentsthatsurvive.org/ stories.

ing gun parts into objects of peace for a number of years.

Many of us in Oak Park know that guns in the home can lead to tragedy. I have two dear friends who lost their teenage sons due to guns found at home. One teen was visited by another who brought a gun from his home. While a group of friends played with it, my friend’s son was killed. Another friend’s son was simply sitting on his porch on a hot summer night when he was killed. A neighboring youth found a gun at home and shot the gun in random directions, killing his neighbor. There are many more stories, too many stories, among our families and friends about guns from home putting others at risk. Sometimes the gun is used in a suicide, other times a gun is stolen and then used in a crime, placing the larger community at risk.

HAUSMAN

er, I was distressed by her embarrassing display of poor judgment and her lack of decorum in the Congressional chamber. She took the role of a heckler instead of a dignified, self-respecting member of the House of Re presentatives. There is a time and place for action and criticism. Inter rupting the President’s State of the Union Address is neither the time nor the place for such behavior. Were she not a member of Congress, security would have escorted her out of the chamber.

Most of us are aware of the disdain Re p. Greene has for President Biden and Democrats. However, as a member of Congress, she took an oath to support our Constitution and our democracy, and she has an obligation to respect the office of the presidency re gardless of whomever the president is. As a member of the opposing political party, she may, and I believe that she should, express her views, but she should do so in an open forum, or perhaps on social media.

My views are the complete opposite of Ms. Greene’s publicly-stated views. She has been very vocal in support of conspiracies theories, white supremacy, and of course Trump’s “big lie” about the 2020 election results. Greene readily talks about her anti-immigration stance, in addition to uttering racist and anti-Semitic slurs. Of

■ Provide survivors support and services for the trauma they’ve experienced and are continuing to experience.

■ Commit to do everything we can to prevent further gun violence.

■ One action to prevent gun violence is a gun buyback program. This is being explored by the Waging Peace Team of First United Church of Oak Park and Gun Responsibility Advocates of Oak Park

We have been considering how such an event could reduce gun violence and communicate care and hope for survivors. We envision a voluntary gun buyback program, supervised by law enforcement, in which donated guns are eventually destroyed and then transformed into useful tools of peace. Guns can be transformed into objects such as garden tools, or objects to commemorate life — such as a life affirming sculpture.

Such a process can aid healing for survivors as they hammer the gun barrel into a garden trowel, or commemorate victims with a sculpture installation. A program called “Guns to Gardens” has been transform-

Many people may have unwanted guns in their homes. Some gun owners receive their guns from family members, or inherit them. Or some realize that with young children in the house, having guns increases the risks.

People may have all sorts of reasons for wanting to surrender a gun at a gun buyback. A gun buyback can encourage them to sur render the gun. Once they surrender the gun or guns, they can wake up the next morning and realize their home, their children, and other family members are safer.

■ Safer from children misusing the gun or taking it to school

■ Safer from suicide attempts

■ Safer from domestic violence

■ Safer from thieves

The National Gun Violence Survivors Week proclamation was a wonderful reminder to affirm our mutual commitment to doing what we can to suppo rt survivors by preventing further gun violence. We believe a gun buyback program fits right in for Oak Park

Lois Thiessen Love is an Oak Park resident and member of First United Church of Oak Park

OUR VIEWS

Should Biden run again? Big small housing solutions

Good to see Oak Park’s village gover nment focusing on assessing its current housing status with a comprehensive review last undertaken more than a decade ago. This assessment is essential to the village reviewing and realigning its multiple housing policies in the years ahead

Meanwhile the village board on Monday heard from five worthy local housing entities responding to an entreaty from village hall for proposals on how to invest funds that have accumulated in Oak Park’s Affordable Housing Trust Fund. This $3.2 million stash results largely from the multifamily apartment building boom of the past decade. Developers have paid into the fund as part of their negotiated development agreements with the village

The fund has been tapped in the past to subsidize worthy projects, including the handsome and affordable building constructed at Oak Park Avenue and Van Buren.

In this round, though, the requests are from longtime Oak Park housing warriors looking to make incremental progress, toward affordable units and against the scourge of homelessness.

We’re impressed by several of the solutions being forwarded that, unit by unit, add capacity for creating affordable housing solutions for a range of those in need, including larger families and teens in housing transition. These are opportunities for Oak Park both to lead in solutions and to lead in empathy for our neighbors

at Harlem viaduct

In a moment when America is thankfully flush with infrastructure funding, it is good to see our local communities with their collective hands out to fund rebuilding of the nagging bottleneck that is the railroad bridge at Harlem Avenue and South Boulevard

Built more than a century ago, this viaduct is well past a simple definition of obsolescence. It carries both freight and commuter traffic up top and jams up auto, truck, pedestrian and bicycle traffic down below. It is too narrow. It is too low.

Our three villages of Oak Park, Forest Park and River Forest have been cooperatively banging their heads on its concrete wall for well more than a decade with nothing to show. Now in this moment of infrastructure plenty, the tri-villages are trying a new tactic and are jointly hiring a transit consultant with some specialization in shaking money loose from gover nment entities. The cost is low — just $15,000 split among the villages — and the payoff could be substantial. The ask of the new Rebuilding American Infrastructure with Sustainability and Equity (RAISE) will be $25 million against an estimated rebuilding cost of $34.6 million.

The other ace in our collective pocket would be our local connections to Springfield power by the names of Speaker Chris Welch, Senate President Don Harmon and Senate Majority Leader Kimberly Lightford. Two Democratic U.S. senators and a Democratic president also won’t hurt.

Outside of the inevitable rebuilding of the Ike, these communities do not have a more immediate transit challenge than this viaduct. Good for the three villages for keeping at this.

Conventional thinking has political observers in its grip (as usual). The presidency, many say, is no country for old men. The case ag ainst Biden running for a second term goes like this:

■ He looks his age (80).

■ Octogenarians can’t do a job as demanding as the presidency.

■ He stumbles occasionally when he speaks.

■ He’s done a good job, but he should quit while he’s ahead.

■ Voters would feel more comfortable with someone younger.

Ageism, ageism, ageism, ageism, and ageism.

When someone has done well under very difficult circumstances, you should only consider a dramatic change if you have compelling reasons to do so. None of the reasons listed above are compelling. They are based entirely on “what if” fears. Reasons are only compelling when they’ re based in reality.

The following would be the compelling reasons for Biden not to r un ag ain:

■ Doing a demonstratively poor job.

■ Showing significant — re peat, significant — co gnitive and/or physical decline.

■ A superior alternative candidate is available and ready to run — Obama caliber — who is more likely than Biden to win.

■ Biden decides, on his own, unpressured, not to run again.

None of those, at this point, apply.

Joe Biden has not just done a good job. His productivity has been remarkable, especially considering the razor-thin majorities he had to work with in Congress — against obstructionists like Manchin and Sinema and the insur rectionists across the aisle. And he passed the so-called “midterm referendum on his presidency,” defying decades of accumulated conventional wisdom, proving that Americans trust him over the alternatives.

He has shown no major, or even minor, cognitive or physical decline. He has a stutter, had it since childhood. Holding that against him is as bad, if not worse, than ageism.

He looks his age — this is what a vigorous

octogenarian looks like. He made the Re publicans look like fools (admittedly not hard to do) during the State of the Union speech last week, which was praised for its content and his delivery (by those in the reality-based community anyway).

If you can’t think of a superior alternative within, say, 5 seconds, then that person doesn’t exist. It would have to be that obvious. Even if you do have someone in mind, everyone else would have to ag ree because that person needs to unite the Pro-Democracy coalition. We have won two out of three elections with Biden, but we need that three-peat. We really need that three-peat. Otherwise we turn the government over to the insur rectionists again.

Trump, who will be 80 in 2024 by the way, will almost certainly be on the ballot. Even if Ron DeSantis, Mike Pence, Nikki Haley or someone else somehow manages to wrangle the Re publican nomination away from Trump, he would probably run as a third-par ty candidate anyway.

Biden is feisty and passionate and has a vision for this country’s future. He is far more active than Obama was in pushing his agenda. He has proven he’s got the energy and vision for the job. He has ear ned the right to run ag ain.

If someone tries to run against him in the primaries, the Democrats will be divided and almost certainly lose in November. We cannot af ford that. A primary battle for an incumbent is the proverbial kiss of death. We do not want to re peat the Jimmy Car ter disaster. We ended up with Ronald Reagan, who started the long slide of the Re publican Party into anti-democracy Could Biden go into decline in the next year and a half?

If elected, could he go into decline during his second term? As long as there has been no clear indication of that so far — and there hasn’t — then it’s a risk we have to take. Because the risk with the other option is far, far greater.

The reservations about Joe Biden are ageism, pure and simple.

Back Biden. In fact, sing his praises. And let’s complete our three-peat in 2024.

OFFICIAL WHITE HOUSE PHOTO BY ADAM SCHULTZ President Joe Biden

Celebrating the courage of Diane Nash ALAN TAYLOR One View

Diane Nash should be as familiar a name as Rosa Parks. Now 84 years young, this Chicagoan’s story demands sharing. After re-viewing the PBS documentary, Eyes on the Prize, I celebrate Diane Nash’s contributions to civil rights.

Raised in Chicago, Ms. Nash moved to Nashville, Tennessee to attend Fisk University in 1959. Horrified by overt discrimination, she immediately attended nonviolent workshops and quickly agreed to lead lunch counter sit-ins. On Feb. 13 of that year the Nashville sit-ins began.

“The first sit-in we had was really funny,” Nash recalled. “The waitresses were very nervous They must’ve dropped $2,000 of dishes that day. … We were sitting there trying not to laugh. We thought that laughing would be insulting.”

On Feb. 27, white agitators attacked several demonstrators, who remained nonviolent. While doing nothing to protect the students, the police began arresting them. Nash describes with awe how wave after wave of students kept stepping up to the lunch counter that day until 80 of them were arrested. That day marked the first of dozens of arrests for her

D.C. The Freedom Riders traveled from one state to another, facing increasing danger and violence. When they crossed the Alabama border, the riders were badly beaten and the buses burned. After beseeching from the White House, CORE called off the Freedom Rides.

Over the objections of many, Nash (with the SNCC — which she helped co-found) organized the continuation of the Freedom Rides. She infor med federal officials that the new riders had produced their wills in sealed envelopes, knowing full well the risks

WEDNESD AY JOURNAL

of Oak Park and River Forest

Editor and Publisher Dan Haley

Senior Editor Bob Uphues

Digital Manager Stacy Coleman

Staff Repor ters Stacey Sher idan, Shanel Romain

Viewpoints Editor Ken Trainor

Real Estate Editor Lacey Sikora

Big Week Editor James Porter

DIANE NASH

As soon as the local Black community united behind the students in Nashville, Nash joined Rev. C.T. Vivian to co-lead the first major march of the Civil Rights Movement — and the first big win.

Nash recalled, “Students forced people to decide whether segregation was right or wrong.” When confronting the Nashville mayor, she was assigned the role of asking him, “Mayor West, do you believe it is wrong to discriminate against a person based solely on the color of their skin?” He relented Nash said, “I had a lot of respect for how he answered. He said that he did feel segregation was wrong.” It was a tur ning point for Nashville, and a tur ning point in the wider nation.

In the spring of 1961, the Congress of Racial Equality (CORE) launched the Freedom Rides from Washington

She said, “We recognized that if the Freedom Ride was ended right then after all that violence, souther n white racists would think that they could stop a project by inflicting enough violence on it. And we wouldn’t have been able to have any kind of movement for voting rights, for buses, public accommodations or anything after that, without getting a lot of people killed first.” Nash married Rev. James Bevel. They moved to Jackson, Mississippi, to participate in one of the most challenging civil rights strategies. In Jackson, she was convicted of contributing to the delinquency of minors by teaching nonviolent tactics. Even though she faced a two-year sentence and was six-months pregnant, she sat in front of the courtroom, refusing to move to the back when directed to do so. Charged with contempt of court, she chose jail time instead of paying a fine. The judge, however, released her for fear of the publicity that would accompany jailing a pregnant woman.

Nash also contributed significantly to the Selma marches and the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom. In the late ’60s, Nash moved back to Chicago and taught in the Chicago Public Schools. She has remained active in community-based organizing, focusing on tenants’ rights, welfare support, and equitable housing

Let’s share her story more widely!

Alan Taylor, a Unitarian-Uni versalist minister and Oak Park resident, invites readers to visit his website, lov ewithcourage.org.

Bere over Michael Romain’s departure

We moved to Oak Park as the pandemic lockdown be g an in gloom. But we spied delight in the lively Wednesday Jour nal. And on page 3 we found an exciting welcome to the village and its re gion through the ar ticles of Michael Romain.

His ideas stimulated us from our isolation with his analyses on crucial national issues using the latest research and his wide net of re gional infor mants He also gave us newcomers a sense of place as he related issues locally, such as the loss of Oak Park’s Black neighborhood of the early 1900s and stories about his

grandfather and his father in Oak Park, and his Black church in Maywood.

With the pandemic lifting, we had hoped to attend public speeches given by Michael Romain. We wanted to sit down over a cup of coffee and hear his view on what we should be doing to make our community better We are bereft that he has gone unheralded.

Bill & Jane Ann Moore

Retired co-pastors, United Church of Christ, members of Pilgrim Congre gational UCC, authors-editors of books on Owen Lov ejoy

Columnists Marc Bleso , Jack Crowe, Doug Deuchler, Harriet Hausman, Mary Kay O’Grady, Kwame Salter, John Stanger

Design/Production Manager Andrew Mead

Editorial Design Manager Javier Govea

Designer Susan McKelvey

Marketing Representatives Marc Stopeck, Lourdes Nicholls, Kamil Brady

Business & Development Manager Mary Ellen Nelligan

Circulation Manager Jill Wagner E-MAIL jill@oakpark.com

Special Projects Manager Susan Walker

Chairman Emeritus Robert K. Downs

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Chair Judy Gre n Treasurer Nile Wendorf Deb Abrahamson, Gary Collins, Steve Edwards Darnell Shields, Sheila Solomon, Eric Weinheimer

About Viewpoints

Our mission is to lead educated conversation about the people, government, schools, businesses and culture of Oak Park and River Forest. As we share the consensus of Wednesday Journal’s editorial board on local matters, we hope our voice will help focus your thinking and, when need be, re you to action

In a healthy conversation about community concerns, your voice is also vital. We welcome your views, on any topic of community interest, as essays and as letters to the editor. Noted here are our stipulations for ling.

Please understand our veri cation process and circumstances that would lead us not to print a letter or essay. We will call to check that what we received with your signature is something you sent. If we can’t make that veri cation, we will not print what was sent. When, in addition to opinion, a letter or essay includes information presented as fact, we will check the reference. If we cannot con rm a detail, we may not print the letter or essay.

If you have questions, email Viewpoints editor Ken Trainor at ktrainor@wjinc.com.

LET TER TO THE EDITOR

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‘ONE VIEW’ ESSAY

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Email Ken Trainor at ktrainor@wjinc.com or mail to Wednesday Journal, Viewpoints, 141 S. Oak Park Ave., Oak Park, IL 60302

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D90 All-Day K plan is rushed

On Feb. 7, the River Forest Board of Education presented a plan to fund All-Day Kindergarten and expand two schools, effective August 2023. The board will vote on the plan Feb. 21. Exterior construction, in 2024/25 ifneeded, would cost $9.1 million over 4 years and $1.1 million annually, plus inflation, beginning Year 5 in perpetuity.

Ifonly interior construction is needed, costs would be $2 million over 4 years plus $0.5 million, inflated annually in Year 5, in perpetuity. These costs reflect $1.286 million to delay for four years extra pension funding, and must be added to figures shown in the financial packet, according to Anthony Cozzi, District 90 chief operating of ficer.

Funding won’t cover the program cost, despite a $9.5 million bond issuance in 2023. D90 continues to deficit spend in its operating account, and the deficit could increase exponentially, per Mr. Cozzi.

Taxpayers will soon face OPPRF’s Phase 2 project costs and in 2025 a new

Avoid costly delays on Project 2

D90 teachers’ contract after high wage inflation. By 2026/27 D90 likely will face a referendum and by 2027 resume extra pension funding for an expected state shift to local districts. Community trust would be critical to a referendum’s success. High tax bills relative to other high-performing districts weigh on property values.

Many of the 75% of residents without children in D90 schools have not heard the plan nor its full impact. The plan was created by a 22-person D90 committee ofmostly employees and only one unaffiliated resident. Enrollment projections are incomplete.

This plan is rushed. A thorough process would create an inclusive plan to evaluate and adopt a cohesive K-8 curriculum and ensure appropriate staffing, training, financing, space and supplies. Board members want to hear from other constituencies before the Feb. 21 vote.

Margie Cekander River Forest

We are Oak Park residents and taxpayers with two children, an OPRF sophomore and a Brooks seventh-grader. We strongly feel District 200 must invest in the future of our community by proceeding with Funding Scenario 4 for Project 2 now.

OPRF High School has been a keystone institution for years, attracting a steady stream of young f amilies to this community, making it the vibrant, diverse, and unique place to live that we enjoy today T he aspiration ofsending our children to OPRF was the key reason for our f amily ’s decision to relocate to Oak Park, as it has been for so many other s.

Unfortunately, the age and current state ofthe building, part icularly those spaces included in Project 2, means that urgent actions must be taken to ensure the future of this economic engine that drives our community. Our children may benefit, but our greater concern is that if we allow the high school to further declin e, if we do not invest in one ofour main attractions, we all risk losing the ability to attract and keep future f amilies, thereby impacting our

community as well as our housing values.

D200 has invested significant time and ef fort into the study ofProject 2 and has clearly demonstrated the need to address the overdue facility improvements. The positive impacts on 3,400 students who use these facilities daily for physical education, the urgent need to address accessibility and equity concerns, the economic impact that quality schools provide to our community, and the need to avoid further costly expenses due to delay, all underscore the need to make the best decision and begin implementation ofthis project as soon as possible.

The Raymond James funding options review shows that the only option that would prevent the community from shouldering additional costs if we delay Project 2 — because costs continue to rise and the facilities continue to decline — is Funding Scenario 4.

T herefore, D200 must select Funding Scenario 4 to begin Project 2 immediately and avoid a referendum and costly delays.

John & Becky Fuller Oak Park

‘Advanced Aliveness’ means rethinking aging

I’m about to tur n 70. By any measure I’m getting “up there,” an “older person,” who is “retired.” It’s no sur prise, then, that I’ve become interested in how we talk about age, especially after reading Marc Blesoff’s thoughtful essay in Wednesday Jour nal

[A day of ageism, like any other day, Viewpoints, Feb. 8]

I’m a little tongue-in-cheek here, but the ter m “advanced aliveness” has the vir tue of lacking bias. I feel ageism in every alter native ter m.

Advanced Aliveness can be looked at as a positive, not ne gative, experience.

■ We are (more) comfortable in our own skin.

MORRIS MURIELLO

■ We know our strengths and weaknesses

■ We know how to say no, and when to say yes.

■ We know the deep joy of family; we cherish our friends.

■ We know (mostly) what we believ e, and what we don’ t.

■ We have memories to be proud of.

■ We are interested in lear ning new things and having new experiences

■ We’ve known some great people.

■ We look fur ther than skin deep; we pick up on immaturity and insolence

■ We know we can be fooled so we try hard not to be.

■ We enjoy familiarity with a broad range of topics and hobbies.

■ We think deeply about dif ficult topics such as death and democracy.

■ We take ethics seriously and understand that individual behavior matters.

■ We Boomers endured (and thrived) in an environment of technological change unprecedented in human history. We’ve gone from mainframes to quantum computing in the blink of an eye.

■ We get it that, even though we all know much more, we may not understand much more

■ We (often) have patience.

■ We (frequently) find joy in being alive

■ We know the value of peace and stability, as well as creativity and sur prise.

■ We don’t try to fix everything, but we fix everything we can. Youth is over rated. Being young can be hard, adolescence dif ficult, and teen years hor rible. Self-doubt, lack of confidence — even the early 20s can be shak y.

Age 30-60 are the greatest decades for productivity, accomplishment, and family. Are the last 20 just decline? Truthfully, our bodies tell a story. The cells of the body always seek balance. As we age, it is harder for the balance to be maintained. We injure more easily and are slower to heal, our joints wear out, and we are immunolo gically vulnerable. We feel aches and pains; we suf fer ailments and illness

But there is so much more to these years. While our bodies be gin their life-long transition toward ir recoverable imbalance, the mind and hear t can undergo a renaissance.

Let’s stop thinking about the gathering of years as decline and loss. Instead, let’s accumulate more aliveness.

Karen Morris Muriello is an Oak Pa rk resident.

Clumsy title derailed an important topic

I am a professor of History and Black Studies and Director of the African American Cultural Center at University of Illinois Chicago. It is with some conster nation that I have followed the uproar about the planned and recently cancelled 2023 summer camp offering, a cooking class titled, “The Atlantic Slave Trade.”

I will admit that I was confused when I first heard of the topic of this one-week course But as a historian I was intrigued

I was, at the same time, completely baffled and ultimately saddened by the backlash. From what I can gather, it seems to me that the camp was nothing more than a misfire, a poorly worded attempt to explore the history of contemporary Black culinary practices

To be sure, a class exploring the “flavors of the transatlantic slave trade” sounds appallingly insensitive But I am giving its creator the benefit of the doubt. There is a whole area of Black cultural history focused on the African and Caribbean roots of Black American foodways, and this work is exciting and important.

Popular and award-winning cookbooks by such renowned chefs as Marcus Samuelsson, Toni Tipton-

Ban dog-hostile ice melt

Seemingly every year, Wednesday Jour nal runs a kindly letter to the editor encouraging people to use pet-friendly ice melt (PFIM) when deicing their sidewalks. And yet after each snowfall, Nolan and I go fo r a walk and it’s a goddamn minefield out there. Do you have any idea how heartbreaking it is to see this dinky donky dog debilitated by mineral shards lodged in his paw? Bambi’s mom dying is downright hilarious next to this devastating scene.

Cordial entreaties have failed and more drastic measures are required: Oak Park needs to ban the use of non-pet friendly ice melt in the village And we might as well ban the sale of this dog-hostile salt too while we’re at it

Look, I get that not everyone’s got a dog, but as a community we need to decide: Is this a pet-friendly place or not?

Sure, PFIM is a little more expensive. Perhaps the village could subsidize the cost for residents. But my indisputably comprehensive investigation concluded that the biggest users of dog-hostile salt are corporate-owned businesses and multi-unit residential properties, whose overlords typically are not residents themselves Pet owners need to immediately demand their landlord/condo association and/or their designated sidewalk shovelers use pet-friendly ice melt. And we all need to insist the businesses we frequent do the same.

In exchange, dog owners will need to make some

Martin, and Michael W. Twitty have done an amazing service by joyfully providing historical perspective on everyday cultural traditions that shape what Black folks eat. Their cookbooks encourage us to both embrace the complexity and celebrate the brilliance and creativity of Black ancestors who struggled under unimaginable circumstances

The response to the poorly thought-out camp title and description demonstrates how reactive a topic slavery remains, how little American care to know about it, and how clumsily we handle it as a society.

The irony is that, rather than “disrespecting our [African American] experience, history, and very existence,” I imagine that this course was an attempt to do the exact opposite This camp presented Oak Park with an interesting educational opportunity and space for difficult conversation.

It is a shame the park board cancelled the course in the face of blustery outrage rather than engaging the historical issues at its core.

concessions themselves, like being more conscientious about picking up their dog’s business — for the less genteel among us, that’s a euphemism for dogs**t — especially in the snow, which does not, in fact, possess magical poop-disintegrating properties. Additionally, local dog owners should agree to stop throwing their poop bags in my re cycling.

If you’re thinking, “Hey man, why don’t you go to a village board meeting and propose this?” So rry, but that ain’t the way I operate. I like to agitate the masses first. But I will propose it at a future board meeting, which I may or may not ever get around to attending. Either way, Oak Park should step up and ban doghostile salt in the village.

Dan Stark Oak Park

Cynthia Blair Oak Park

What equity at OPRF looks like

I have lived in Oak Park since October 2001, just after 9/11. I have experienced that we Oak Parkers have a taste for expensive projects Star ting with the “Cap the Ike” project to put a roof over I-290. Another smaller example was the Tasty Do g relocation across the street — only to have it tor n down to make way for expensive condos. T here was also the $35 million library re placement of a perfectly

functioning and expandable library built in the 1960s

More recently, there was the multimillion-dollar pool proposal in 2016. Eventually a referendum for the pool failed — just barely. Well now the pool is back as part of a larger athletic facility packag e that is more than twice the price at over $100 million plus financing costs.

Inequitable Decision Process: T hus

far this decision process is taking place without the use of a referendum. Firstly, the 2016 referendum serves as a precedent; second there was a non-bindin g ballot proposal in 2020 that required all capital expenditures over $5 million be put to a referendum — passing by an overwhelming majorit y. Why then is this $100 million progr am being “pushed through” without a referendum?

Do you wake up with HEEL PAIN?

Heel pain is one of the most common conditions I treat" says Dr. Linda Lambert of the River Forest Foot Clinic. If you wake up having di culty putting your feet on the oor, Dr. Lambert can help.

Heel pain or plantar fascitis is caused when the foot attens out with weight bearing. Sometimes a heel spur forms where the plantar fascia

attaches to the heel bone. A heel spur can be diagnosed with an in o ce x-ray.

ere are many ways to treat heel pain without doing surgery. Rest, ice, anti-in ammatory medication, supportive shoes and stretches help in most cases. Custom made orthotic devices or cortisone injections may also be needed.

Equity: Is a $100 million spor ts facilities package going to help educate students? Superintendent Johnson has argued that the pool is, “what equity looks like.” Sure all students need to know how to swim for safety reasons, but this could be accomplished in other less costly, more ef ficient ways — including through a shared facility at Ridgeland Commons

Imagine: I believe that a better use of our tax dollars would be to fully assess each student’s needs the summer before they enter the high school and then tailor a progr am that is necessary for all students, but especially necessary for atrisk students. Rather than over-investing in spor ts facilities, I would rather invest in our students’ education by providin g teaching and tutoring resources, afterschool and summer progr ams, and retooling our counseling progr am to include psycholo gical counseling for those students with emotional dif ficulties.

This is what equity looks like.

Je rey Sobczynski Oak Park

We need an explanation

Michael Romain’s column was the highlight of the Wednesday Jour nal. While we understand that employment situations often require that some information be withheld from the public, you must find a way to explain his de par ture. We are ceasing contributions to GCM until we have a thorough answer.

Bernie Buchholz Oak Park

Hail to the Chief

I read Oak Park Police Chief Shatonya Johnson’s viewpoint [There is no place for this, Viewpoints, Feb. 1] and greatly appreciated her professionalism and in-depth comprehensive view of the expectation of the police force throughout the continental United States Her professional and inclusive role provides citizens with hope and optimism for our future as she gover ns during her time as chief. Her attitude exemplifies that she is the right person for a challenging, intricate, and very demanding position.

Dorothy Wright Oak Park resident

HAUSMAN Uncivil opposition

from page 25

all the ugly and hateful statements she has made, I believe her most dangerous words were those in full suppo rt of the Jan. 6, 2021 insur rection, an attempted coup to over throw our democracy. How can she be trusted as a re presentative of our gover nment, swear an oath of of fice to uphold the Constitution, and then hate the gover nment enough to suppor t its demise? Various points of view expressed openly are critically important in a democracy. Civil, oppositional discourse is a valued component in making appropriate decisions and policies. For this to take place, we need to have qualified leaders of fering dif fering viewpoints We must vote for le gislators who will be responsible and knowledgeable leaders, and not merely political hacks. Honest leaders with sound judgment are needed if we want to end the partisan idiocy displayed. Yet very recently some experienced, highly qualified Democratic House of Re presentatives committee members have been re placed by unqualified people like Mar jorie Taylor Greene and George Santos, just because they are Re publicans. Does this emphasis on par ty af filiation rather than on qualification make any sense? It should, no matter which party is “in charge.”

Our nation is faced with many challenges Perhaps I’m too idealistic, but I truly believe in the possibilities that our system of gover nance, guided by our remarkable Constitution can accomplish. Our leaders need to be non-par tisan people of inte g rity, who reflect the diversity of people in this great nation. I still remember Miss Oakley, my superpatriotic sixth-grade civics instructor, enthusiastically teaching our class about how great our democracy is I still feel that the “g reat American experiment” is just that … great — and possible, too.

Let’s suppor t our democracy by exercising our precious right to vote in free and fair elections, and choosing truly qualified people who respect their elected positions and act accordingly.

David Hickerson, 66

Worked in government a airs for IBM

David Bryan Hickerson, 66, a son of Arkansas and defender of the Big Ten, died in his slee p on Feb. 5, 2023 at his new home in Oak Park.

He lived in Hot Springs until his father took a transfer with General Motors to souther completed high school, playing football, basketball and baseball at Bedford Nor th Lawrence High School. He attended Indiana University, ear ning a bachelor’s degree from the new School of Public and Environmental Af fairs in 1979. He w ent on to ear n a master’s de gree (MPA) in labor

Peter Stempniak, 36 Loved music, tness and preparing food

Peter Stempniak, 36, for merly of Oak Park, died on Nov. 17, 2022, after he was hit by car in the Sacramento, California suburb of Carmichael, where he had lived for more than a decade

Bor n in Oak Park, Peter studied at Irving Elementary, Julian Middle School, and OPRF High School, from which he graduated in 2005. He later attended chef ’s school at Le Cordon Bleu Colle ge of Culinary Ar ts in Chicago, pursuing his passion for preparing food. Then he joined the U.S. Marines, spending time in and Okinawa, Japan.

After his discharge, he moved to Nor ther n California with his first-born child and wife, Fiordaliza Nune z, whom he met while both were in a high school workstudy program at Rush Oak Park Hospital. They mar ried in 2010. A longtime stay-athome father, he walked his kids to school,

OBITUARIES

relations in 1981 and worked for Eastman Kodak in Rochester, New York after graduation. From there, he held various jobs in gover nment af fairs, most recently with IBM where he was closely approaching retirement.

His proudest accomplishment was his family He mar ried his colle ge love, Elin Thorgren, in 1981. They had a son, Sebastian, and a daughter, Isabel, before settling in Oak Park in 1993.

He was predeceased by his parents, Lester and Vivian Hickerson, and his brother, Robert Hickerson.

David is survived by his wife; his son and daughter; and his sister and brother-in-law, Sandi and Joe Jordan.

Memorial visitation will be held on Saturday, Feb. 18, from 1 to 3 p.m. at Zimmerman-Har nett Funeral Home, 7319 W. Madison St., Forest Park with the service be ginning at 3.

David was generous, thoughtful, and fiercely devoted to the people and causes he loved. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Feeding America and the American Diabetes Association.

made lunches, took their oldest to wrestling practice and meets (“Big Pete” also wrestled at OPRF and played football), and more recently worked part-time to help pay for aftercare In his spare time, he was active in his church community, played the har monica (also trombone at Julian and OPRF), and enjoyed fitness and movies.

Peter is survived by his wife, Fiordaliza Nune z; his children, Azariah (4), Luke (8), Beth (10) and Peter (12); pup Jazzy; siblings, Mar tin (Jennifer) and Zachary (Melissa) Stempniak; halfsister, Margaret (David) del Vecchio (nee Stempniak); his mother, Agnes Stempniak of Oak Park; and his niece, Mia, and three ne phews, Calvin, Jose ph and Max. He was preceded in death by his father, Martin Stempniak of Oak Park, and his half-brother, Matthew Stempniak.

An open-house, celebration-of-life event is scheduled for Saturday, April 1, at Pleasant Home, 217 Home Ave., Oak Park. All are invited to stop by between 1 and 5 p.m.

The family has established an online fundraiser to benefit his widow and children at https://gofund.me/c66f4860.

Josephine Sanberg, 92 Woman of many ar ts

Jose phine Sanberg, 92, of Oak Park, died on Feb. 9, 2023 at Rush Oak Park Hospital. Bor n on Jan. 26, 1931, she gave of herself and raised a cohesive f amily and nur tured love and understanding. She encouraged all the children to explore what their interests were and delve into what they could become

She celebrated everyone’s achievements no matter how big or small. As the matriarch, her unceasing passion for knowledge, education, music, philosophy, the ar ts, and work gave her the ability to lead her f amily through the happiest and the saddest of times. She loved bringing her children to museums, beaches, amusement parks, and many cultural events the city had to of fer.

Every weekend she would cook and host spaghetti dinners for her children and grandchildren, a traditio n that lasted decades, which they all cherished and anticipated with feelings of great pleasure and happiness. Every holiday and bir thday was to be celebrated. Life was to be celebrated

During the week she engineered and forg ed a career in banking, eventually becoming a trust of ficer, and serve d as a beacon of inspiration for all the f amily members, especially the young girls.

She dressed with style and class, played the piano and loved to dance. She was beautiful and had the war mest of hear ts T he mother, intellect, humanitarian, and woman of the ar ts will be greatly and dearly missed Jose phine Sanberg was the mother of Eric, Claudia, Jamie, Rolfe Jr., and the late Edith; the grandmother of Eliza, Morg an, Colin, Alex, Vanessa, Jason, Nigel, and Jamie-Michael; and the great-grandmother of Hanna, Lilly, Dylan, Gavin, Andrew, Lincoln, and Finne g an.

Family and friends will meet at Conboy-Westchester Funeral Home, 10501 W. Cer mak Road, Westchester on T hursday, Feb. 16 from 3 to 8 p.m. Private Inter ment will take place at St. Jose ph Cemeter y.

HELP WANTED

The Village of Oak Park is seeking qualified candidates for the position of Human Resources Generalist in the Human Resources Department. This position will perform a variety of professional and technical functions in support human resource management including orientation, hiring, employee testing, classification analysis, compensation analysis and benefits administration. Applicants are encouraged to visit the Village of Oak Park’s website http://www. oak-park.us/jobs. Position opened until filled.

PARKING ENFORCEMENT OFFICER

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

IT OPERATIONS SPECIALIST

The Village of Oak Park is seeking qualified candidates for the position of IT Operations Specialist. The ideal candidate is responsible for the effective operation of information technology services and support across the organization. The IT Operations Specialist serves as a technical expert for the implementation, maintenance and support of systems and networks. The IT Operations Specialist plans and carries out various complex assignments and develops new methods and approaches in a wide variety of IT specialties. Evaluates new and enhanced approaches to deliver IT services; test and optimize the functionality of systems, networks, and data; and define technical requirements. The IT Operations Specialist is responsible for providing various forms of computer-related technical assistance and improving the efficiency of the work of the staff through the use of technology. Interested and qualified applicants can visit our website at http://www.oakpark.us/ for more details.

BY E-MAIL: EMAIL@GROWINGCOMMUNITYMEDIA.ORG

DIRECTOR OF FINANCE & ADMINISTRATION

Unity Temple Unitarian Universalist Congregation is looking for a full-time Director of Finance & Administration, who will manage the administrative and financial matters of the congregation in collaboration with church leadership and board officers. This person will participate on and advise the Executive Team and advise governing board on a wide range of financial matters at both the strategic and operational levels including the operational budget and stewardship planning. They will also oversee and adjust processes and operations as necessary to ensure efficient and effective implementation and creation of policies and procedures, as well as supervise some other staff members.

Core Competencies:

● Organization and Planning: Organize and oversee people, funding, materials, and support to accomplish multiple, concurrent goals and activities. Project management and excellent organizational skills

● Vision and Purpose: Commitment to and knowledge of Unitarian Universalist Principles, values, history and worship.

● Trust and Integrity: Is widely trusted to keep confidences, admit errors, and adhere to a transparent set of personal and professional values that are congruent with the ministry of the congregation

● Conflict Management: Recognize and resolve conflicts effectively, applying principles of active listening, collaboration, and equity for both congregants and staff

● Proficiencies: Working knowledge of business and church related software (Google Drive. Constant Contact and Realm or other church database software). Must have excellent project management and professional communication skills. Working knowledge of HR and accounting practices.

You can find out more information about the position at https://unitytemple.org/job-postings/. To apply, send a cover letter and resume to jobs@ unitytemple.org indicating “Director of Finance & Administration” in the subject line.

PART-TIME ELECTRICIAN’S HELPER

Call for more info. 708-738-3848

Project Manager sought by LG Construction Group LLC (Chicago, IL) to complete subcontractor evals & comparison of bids while overseeing Asstnt PM. Apply at jobpostingtoday. com Ref# 33978.

PARALEGAL

The Village of Oak Park is seeking qualified candidates for the position of Paralegal. The ideal candidate will perform a variety of responsible duties in support of the Law Department, including research, document preparation, administrative support to Law Department staff and other related duties. Applicants are encouraged to visit the Village of Oak Park’s website at http://www.oakpark.us/jobs. Interested and qualified applicants must complete a Village of Oak Park application. This position is open until filled.

DAYCARE CENTER DIRECTOR QUALIFIED TEACHER

Early childhood transcripts needed Immediate opening CALL TODAY! (773) 619-5545.

PRACTICE RELATIONS COORDINATOR

(PRC) - Job description

Little Teeth Big Smiles - Children’s Dentistry is a well-established, state of the art pediatric dental office that loves creating positive dental experiences for the children in our community. Our entire team, including the doctors, dental assistants, and administrative team members are highly trained and passionate about what they do each and every day to provide exceptional dental care and outstanding customer service to every family that enters our office. We are proud to have over 800 5-star Google Reviews that speak to the high level of service we are passionate about providing to our patients.

We have team members who have come from varying backgrounds including: retail, hospitality, fitness, and dental! You could be a part of that team! We believe that the quality of our work is a reflection of who we are. Our team members must possess a commitment to being the best they can be in all areas of patient service. Team members will be empowered to make decisions when an understanding of our philosophy and appropriate skills are acquired. Team members will not only work toward fulfilling their own responsibilities, but will support other team members in fulfilling theirs. Looking to the future our team recognizes that our patients’ needs are ever-changing. We are committed to staying at the cutting edge of pediatric dentistry to assure our patients receive the highest quality care. We believe in providing a safe and comfortable work environment where our team members are encouraged, inspired, and supported by their fellow co-workers.

Maybe you’ve been looking for that positive change in your life and what could be better than knowing you are making a difference in the lives of our patients and their families? We are confident you would love it here and will find the career and company culture that you’ve always wanted!

The Practice Relations Coordinator (PRC) is a very flexible part-time position in a fun environment with great fellow coworkers! We are opening

our brand new office space soon and need someone to help us market this to our patients, referring offices and the community!

Details of the position:

* Responsible for representing our specialty practice to our referral base (existing and potential) through the execution of various networking and relationship building activities

*Includes personal contact with referring office staff and Doctors for the purpose of delivering gifts, hosting lunches and other social activities, and organizing educational events

*Includes administrative and organizational activities such as setting up files and delivery routes, compiling monthly practice statistics and preparation of mailings

*Planning and executing internal and external events.

Who you are:

*Upbeat, positive, self-motivated go-getter, with creative & innovative ideas to market our practice to potential referral sources

* Excellent organization and time-management skills

*Must be somebody who is a genuine people person and thrives on face-toface contact and meeting new people

*Outstanding telephone and customer service skills

* Professional and poised image as you will be representing our practice

*Has a College degree

* Are technologically savvy and possess experience with Adobe Photoshop or Illustrator, online marketing, and social networking

*If you are seeking a part-time desk job this is not for you. The majority of your hours will be spent out in the field building up our referral base

* Basic knowledge of pediatric dental terminology and dental office functions will be very helpful but not required

*Also helpful will be knowledge of geography and roads covering our referral base

* Must have a valid driver’s license

To apply for this position please send your resume AND a cover letter telling us why you are the right person for this position!

Education:

• Bachelor’s (Required)

Experience:

• Marketing: 1 year (Preferred)

• Dental office: 1 year (Preferred)

Work Location: On the road

Oak Park Residence Corporation is hiring and inviting candidates to apply for:

• Case Manager – HCV Program

• Accounting Clerk (PT)

• Assistant Property Manager – The Oaks and The FarrellyMuriello Apartments

• Property Assistant/Cleaner –Mills Park Tower

We offer benefits such as 401(k) with employer contribution, Health, Dental, Vision, Life, and Short-term and Long-Term Disability Insurance, EAP, FSA, Professional Development Assistance as well as these added

Benefits:

- PTO, Paid Sick Leave, Paid Vacation, and Paid Holidays

- Tuition Reimbursement

- A Collaborative, Supportive, and Fun Work Environment

For a complete job description please go to our website: Work for OPRC –OPRC (oakparkrc.com) or to apply send cover letter and resume to bswaggerty@oakparkrc.com.

OPRC strives to provide a positive and meaningful work experience, where you can make a positive difference in the lives of others.

Oak Park Residence Corporation is a community-based, non-profit organization. For over 46 years, we have led the way in promoting Oak Park’s housing diversity and economic balance by offering quality apartments at affordable prices.

MARKETPLACE

HOME SERVICES

PUBLIC NOTICES PUBLIC NOTICES 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: Y23010134 on February 1, 2023. Under the Assumed Business Name of TRAVELS & TREASURES with the business located at: 1016 ERIE STREET, OAK PARK, IL 60302. The true and real full name(s) and residence address of the owner(s)/partner(s) is: TANYA TAYLOR 1016 ERIE STREET, OAK PARK, IL 60302.

Published in Wednesday Journal

February 8, 15, 22, 2023

PUBLIC NOTICE

BRICKWORK

RITEWAY BRICK RESTORATION

Call Uncle Gary 708-522-3400

for such articles at the request of the following designated persons, unless such articles are redeemed within thirty days of the publication of this notice. Our records show, your 2015, Kia, Optima with the following VIN 5XXGM4A71FG463634 was towed to our facility per police ordinance.

Our records show that the current amount due and owing is $2000.00.

If payment is not received within 30 days Nobs Towing Inc. will enforce a mechanic’s lien pursuant to Chapter 770 ILCS 50/3.

Published in Forest Park Review February 15, 2023

PUBLIC NOTICE ATTENTION STEWARD JASHAUN & EXETER FINANCE LLC.

to our facility per police ordinance. Our records show that the current amount due and owing is $2000.00. If payment is not received within 30 days Nobs Towing Inc. will enforce a mechanic’s lien pursuant to Chapter 770 ILCS 50/3.

Published in Forest Park Review

February 15, 2023

PUBLIC NOTICE ADVERTISEMENT OF BIDDING

Request of bids for the Park District of Oak Park Elevator Modernization, 218 Madison St., Oak Park.

Owner: Park District of Oak Park 218 Madison St, Oak Park, IL 60302

Tuckpointing

~ Specializing in Chimneys

- Rebuild - RepairedNew Liner Installation

Lintel Repairs & Stone Veneer

Residential & Commercial 40 yrs. experience

Fully insured (including Workmans Comp)

708-354-2501

Ritewaybrickglobal.net

WOODWORK

Terry's

On-site refinishing of wood and fiberglass since 1977. Includes doors, woodwork, windows, staircases and new woodwork etc. All work done by hand. NO sanders. Your unfinished project my specialty! References available. Contact Terry Seamans at 630-379-7148 or terryseamans@yahoo.com

HANDYMAN

Drywall H Painting H Tile Plumbing H Electric H Floors

Doors

708-296-2060

NOVENAS NOVENAS NOVENAS

NEVER FAIL NOVENA

May the Sacred Heart of Jesus be praised, adored and glorified throughout the world, now and for-ever. Most Sacred Heart of Jesus, I put my trust in you. Holy Mary Mother of Jesus, pray for me. St. Theresa child of Jesus, pray for me.

St. Jude, helper of hopeless causes, pray for me and grant this favorI ask.

Say this prayer 9 times a day for 9 days .R.B

PRAYER TO ST. JUDE

May the Sacred Heart of Jesus be adored, glorified, loved & preserved throughout the world now & forever.

Sacred Heart of Jesus, pray for us.

St. Jude worker of miracles, pray for

us. St. Jude helper of the hopeless, pray for us. Say this prayer 9 times a day for 9 days. By the 8th day your prayer will be answered. It has never been known to fail .Publication must be promised. Thank you Jesus. Thank You St . Jude. R.B.

PRAYER TO THE BLESSED VIRGIN

(NEVER KNOWN TO FAIL)

Oh, most beautiful flower of Mt. Carmel, fruitful vine, splendor of heaven, Blessed Mother of the Son of God, Immaculate Virgin, assist me in my necessity. Oh, Star of the Sea, help me and show me, herein you are my mother. Oh, Holy Mary, Mother of God, Queen of Heaven and Earth. I humbly beseech you

from the bottom of my heart to suc cor in my necessity (make request). There are none that can withstand your power. Oh, show me herein you are my mother. Oh, Mary, conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to thee (3 times). Holy Mary, I place this prayer in your hands (3 times). Say this prayer for three consecutive days and publish; your request will be granted. R.B.

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: Y23010121 on January 31, 2023 Under the Assumed Business Name of JUST CALL JAK with the business located at: 9119 FRANKLIN COURT, ORLAND PARK, IL 60462. The true and real full name(s) and residence address of the owner(s)/ partner(s) is: JONATHAN MICHAEL CARSTEN 9119 FRANKLIN COURT, ORLAND PARK, IL 60462.

Published in Wednesday Journal February 8, 15, 22, 2023

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: Y23010112 on January 27, 2023 Under the Assumed Business Name of KC KAREN’S CREATIONS with the business located at: 622 HANNAH AVE, FOREST PARK, IL 60130. The true and real full name(s) and residence address of the owner(s)/partner(s) is: KAREN CHILDS 622 HANNAH AVE, FOREST PARK, IL 60130.

Published in Wednesday Journal February 8, 15, 22, 2023

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: Y23010087 on January 24, 2023 Under the Assumed Business

Name of DONOR 4 A CAUSE SOLUTIONS with the business located at: 930 ONTARIO ST 2D, OAK PARK, IL 60302. The true and real full name(s) and residence address of the owner(s)/ partner(s) is: SULE KIVANC-ANCIETA 930 ONTARIO ST 2D, OAK PARK, IL 60302

Published in Wednesday Journal February 8, 15, 22, 2023

PUBLIC NOTICE ATTENTION MASON ERIEL D JANA & CARMAX BUSINESS SERVICES LLC.

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on 3/27/23, a sale will be held at 1510 Hannah Ave, Forest Park, IL, 60130 to sell the following articles to enforce a lien existing under the laws of the State of Illinois against such articles for labor, services, skill or material expended upon a storage furnished

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on 3/27/23, a sale will be held at 1510 Hannah Ave, Forest Park, IL, 60130 to sell the following articles to enforce a lien existing under the laws of the State of Illinois against such articles for labor, services, skill or material expended upon a storage furnished for such articles at the request of the following designated persons, unless such articles are redeemed within thirty days of the publication of this notice. Our records show, your 2014, Nissan, Altima with the following VIN 1N4AL3AP2EN206493 was towed to our facility per police ordinance. Our records show that the current amount due and owing is $2000.00.

If payment is not received within 30 days Nobs Towing Inc. will enforce a mechanic’s lien pursuant to Chapter 770 ILCS 50/3.

Published in Forest Park Review February 15, 2023

PUBLIC NOTICE

ATTENTION LOUVENIA M WILLIAMS & SANTANDER CONSUMER USA.

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on 3/27/23, a sale will be held at 1510 Hannah Ave, Forest Park, IL, 60130 to sell the following articles to enforce a lien existing under the laws of the State of Illinois against such articles for labor, services, skill or material expended upon a storage furnished for such articles at the request of the following designated persons, unless such articles are redeemed within thirty days of the publication of this notice. Our records show, your 2014, Chevy, Malibu with the following VIN 1G11E5SL3EF283775 was towed to our facility per police ordinance. Our records show that the current amount due and owing is $2000.00. If payment is not received within 30 days Nobs Towing Inc. will enforce a mechanic’s lien pursuant to Chapter 770 ILCS 50/3.

Published in Forest Park Review February 15, 2023

PUBLIC NOTICE

ATTENTION ANTONIO RAMIREZ III, XAVIER RAMOS, & EXETER FINANCE LLC.

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on 3/27/23, a sale will be held at 1510 Hannah Ave, Forest Park, IL, 60130 to sell the following articles to enforce a lien existing under the laws of the State of Illinois against such articles for labor, services, skill or material expended upon a storage furnished for such articles at the request of the following designated persons, unless such articles are redeemed within thirty days of the publication of this notice. Our records show, your 2017, Nissan, Rogue with the following VIN KNMAT2MT9HP557004 was towed

The Park District of Oak Park will accept sealed bids for Elevator Modernization, 218 Madison St., Oak Park. The project consists of new modernization of the existing WheelO-Vator elevator. The Park District of Oak Park will receive individual sealed Bids until 11:00 a.m. (Central time) on Friday, March 3rd, 2023, at 218 Madison St., Oak Park, IL. The bidding documents and requirements will be available on the link below as of 5:00 pm Wednesday, February 15th , 2023. Two pre-bid meetings for contractors will be held at 9:00 am on February 23rd & 24th at 218 Madison St., Oak Park. Only one pre-bid is mandatory for those that have not seen the existing conditions. Bid bonds will be required by bidding contractors. Copies of the bidding specifications are available via this link: https://www.demandstar. com/app/buyers/bids/408723

For additional information, contact Chris Lindgren at chris.lindgren@ pdop.org or (708) 725 2050. Only the bids prepared in compliance with the bidding documents will be considered. This project must adhere to the Prevailing Wage Act of 2022. The Park District of Oak Park strongly encourages minority and women owned business firms to submit bids for this project.

Park District of Oak Park By: Chris Wollmuth, Secretary Park District of Oak Park 218 Madison St. Oak Park, IL 60302

Published in Wednesday Journal February 15, 2023

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: Y23010173 on February 9, 2023

Under the Assumed Business Name of MARY CANTU CREATIVE with the business located at: 704 N KENILWORTH AVE, OAK PARK, IL 60302. The true and real full name(s) and residence address of the owner(s)/partner(s) is: MARY CANTU 704 N KENILWORTH AVE, OAK PARK, IL 60302.

Published in Wednesday Journal February 15, 22, March 1, 2023

PUBLIC NOTICE

Notification of Destruction of Records

Riverside School District 96 will properly dispose of all temporary student files from 2016-2017 on March 30, 2023. Permanent student records are retained for 60 years. A parent/ guardian has the right to copy any student record prior to destruction. To request a copy of your student re-

cord, email Nancy Schuenemann at the District 96 Administrative Offices at schuenemannn@district96.org no later than March 15, 2023. A nominal copying fee may be charged.

Published in RB Landmark

February 15, 2023

PUBLIC NOTICE

NOTICE TO BIDDERS

Notice is hereby given by the President and Board of Trustees of the Village of Brookfield, Illinois that bid proposals will be received for the following project:

2023 STREET IMPROVEMENTS

PROJECT VILLAGE OF BROOKFIELD, ILLINOIS

This project will include the replacement of concrete curb and gutter, sidewalks, driveway aprons, and drainage structures, pavement widening, replacement of certain sections of combined sewers, milling and resurfacing certain pavements, pavement reconstruction, removal and replacement of off-street parking, landscaping disturbed areas, and performing other related work.

Sealed bids will be received up to the hour of 11:00 A.M. on Wednesday, the 1st day of March, 2023, in the office of the Village Manager in the Village Hall located at 8820 Brookfield Avenue, Brookfield, Illinois. All sealed bids received will be publicly opened and read at 11:00 A.M. on the same day, Wednesday, the 1st day of March, 2023, at the Village Hall.

Electronic copies of bidding documents, consisting of the bid proposal, project specifications, and project plans are available from the Edwin Hancock Engineering Co., 9933 Roosevelt Road, Westchester, Illinois 60154. Bidding documents can be requested by emailing info@ ehancock.com. No bidding documents will be issued after 4:30 P.M. on Wednesday, the 22nd day of February, 2023.

All bidders wishing to obtain bidding documents must be approved by the Village prior to obtaining bidding documents. All bidders must provide proof that they are prequalified with the Illinois Department of Transportation to perform at least 40% of the value of the work before being issued

bidding documents. A non-refundable fee of Thirty dollars ($30.00) will be required to obtain bidding documents. Proposals will only be accepted from bidders that have obtained bidding documents from the Edwin Hancock Engineering Company.

All bid proposals offered must be accompanied by a bid bond, cashier’s check or certified check in an amount not less than Five Percent (5%) of the total amount of the bid, as a guarantee that if the bid proposal is accepted, a contract will be entered into and the performance of the contract properly secured. Checks shall be made payable to the Order of the President and Board of Trustees of the Village of Brookfield. No bid proposal shall be considered unless accompanied by such bid bond or check.

Any bidder in doubt as to the true meaning of any part of the bidding documents may request an interpretation thereof from the Village. The bidder requesting the interpretation shall be responsible for its prompt delivery. At the request of the bidder, or in the event that the Village deems the interpretation to be substantive, the interpretation will be made by written addendum issued by the Village.

In the event that a written addendum is issued, either as a result of a request for interpretation or the result of a change in the bidding documents issued by the Village, a copy of such addendum will be emailed to all prospective bidders. The Village will not assume responsibility for receipt of such addendum. In all cases it will be the bidders’ responsibility to obtain all addenda issued.

The Contractor and Subcontractor shall comply with all regulations issued pursuant to Prevailing Wage Act (820 ILCS 130), and other applicable Federal Laws and regulations pertaining to labor standards. The Village of Brookfield reserves the rights to determine the lowest, responsive, responsible bidder, to waive irregularities, and to reject any or all bid proposals.

BY

Published in RB Landmark February 15, 2023

PUBLIC NOTICE NOTICE TO CONTRACTORS

22-11749a WASHINGTON COM-

MONS PARK PLAY AREA DEVELOPMENT

Notice is hereby given to potential Bidders that the River Forest Park District will be receiving sealed bids for the Play Area Improvements at Washington Commons Park located on 7970 Washington Blvd., River Forest, IL 60305.

The scope of this project is as follows and identified in the document.

1. Demolition/Removal

2. Grading/Drainage

3. Play Area Development

4. Concrete Work

5. Precast Concrete Pavers

6. Site Furnishings

7.Landscape Plantings & Restoration

Specifications may be obtained beginning at 10:00 AM on February 14, 2023 through the BHFX planroom, https://www.bhfxplanroom.com between the hours of 9:00 A.M. and 5:00 P.M., Monday through Friday. A non-refundable fee will be charged for each requested bid package. See BHFX’s planroom for the cost of both a printed copy and PDF download, or $65.00 for only a PDF download.

Each bid must be placed in a sealed envelope clearly marked “Sealed Bid: ‘Washington Commons Park Play Area Development” and addressed to the River Forest Park District, 401 Thatcher Avenue, River Forest, IL, 60305, Attention: Mike Sletten, Executive Director Bids will be received until 2:00 P.M. on Thursday, March 2, 2023, at which time the bid proposals will be publicly opened and read aloud at 401 Thatcher Avenue, River Forest, Illinois, 60305.

The River Forest Park District Board of Park Commissioners reserves the right to waive all technicalities, to accept or reject any or all bids, to accept only portions of a proposal and reject the remainder. Failure to make such a disclosure will not result in accrual of any right, claim or cause of action by any Bidder against the River Forest Park District. Bids shall not include federal excise tax or state sales tax for materials and equipment to be incorporated in, or fully consumed in the performance

of, the Work. An Exemption Certificate will be furnished by the River Forest Park District on request of the Bidder, for use in connection with this Project only.

The Work of this Project is subject to the Illinois Prevailing Wage Act, 820 ILCS 130/0.01 et seq. A prevailing wage determination has been made by the Park District, which is the same as that determined by the Illinois Department of Labor for public works projects in Cook County. The Contract entered for the Work will be drawn in compliance with said law and proposals should be prepared accordingly and provide for payment of all laborers, workers, and mechanics needed to perform the Work at no less than the prevailing rate of wages (or the prevailing rate for legal holiday and overtime work) for each craft, type of worker, or mechanic.

The Contractor selected will also be required to comply with all applicable federal, state and local laws, rules, regulations and executive orders including but not limited to those pertaining to equal employment opportunity. A Certified or Cashier’s check payable to the Owner, or a Bid Bond in an amount equal to Ten Percent (10%) of the total bid amount must accompany each bid. In addition, each Bidder shall submit a proof of insurance demonstrating the Bidders insurability. Failure to provide a Bid Bond or proof of insurance shall render the bid incomplete and rejected. The Owner will require the successful bidder to furnish a satisfactory Performance and Materials Bond for the total contract amount. Once submitted, no bids will be withdrawn without written consent from the Owners Attorney.

Published in Wednesday Journal February 15, 2023

PUBLIC NOTICE

LEGAL NOTICE/PUBLIC NOTICE

UCP Seguin is soliciting bids for a GENERAL CONTRACTOR to renovate a kitchen and an ADA bathroom at one of our residential homes located in the Village of Oak Park, Illinois. Complete Bid Packet can be obtained by contacting Inga Sandoval at: Isandoval@ucpseguin.org.

Pre-bid site inspection is mandatory, and is scheduled to occur by appoint-

ment only. Please contact Inga Sandoval at (708) 222-5641 to schedule an appointment.

Bid Deadline is 10 am on 3/17/23

This is a Federally-Funded (Community Development Block Grant) Project and is subject to all applicable Federal rules, regulations and guidelines, including but not limited to payment of Prevailing Wage.

MBE and WBE contractors are encouraged to bid on this project

Published in Wednesday Journal February 15, 2023

PUBLIC NOTICE

NOTICE TO BIDDERS

The Northern Illinois Independent Purchasing Cooperative will be receiving Offers on its Request For Proposals for the following:

Primary Distribution of Food Products and Miscellaneous Non-Food Supplies

Primary Distribution of Bread Products

Primary Distribution of Fresh Produce Products

RFP’s must be received by Thursday March 16, 2023 at 9:00 AM, in the Business Office, Room 270A, of The Oak Park and River Forest High School, 201 North Scoville Avenue, Oak Park, Illinois.

RFP documents may be obtained by contacting Micheline Piekarski at niipcinfo@gmail.com or (708) 4343142. RFP’s should be placed in a sealed envelope marked according to the response: Primary Distribution of Food Products and Miscellaneous Non-Food Supplies OR Primary Distribution of Bread Products OR Primary Distribution of Fresh Produce Products. ATTENTION: Micheline Piekarski, Food Service Director.

Published in Wednesday Journal February 15, 2023

VILLAGE OF OAK PARK, ILLINOIS HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION

LEGAL NOTICE

PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY

GIVEN that a public hearing will be held by the Village of Oak Park Historic Preservation Commission on March 15, 2023, at 7:30 p.m. in Council Chambers at the Oak Park Village Hall, 123 Madison Street, Oak Park, Illinois on the Historic Landmark nomination for 1201 Fair Oaks Ave, Oak Park, Illinois (P.I.N.: 16-06-204-031-0000).

The public hearing is being held in accordance with the requirements of the Oak Park Historic Preservation Ordinance. The Historic Preservation Commission will take public testimony during the hearing and make and forward their recommendations to the Village Board of Trustees following the conclusion of the public hearing. For further information on this matter contact the Department of Development Customer Services, Planning Division, Village of Oak Park, 123 Madison Street, Oak Park, Illinois Monday-Friday 8:30AM-5:00PM in person, by telephone at (708) 358-5413, or by email at historicpreservation@ oak-park.us

Published in Wednesday Journal February 15, 2023

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

VILLAGE OF OAK PARK PLAN COMMISSION

DOCKET NUMBER: PC 23-01

(Zoning Ordinance Text Amendment-Adaptive Reuse Permit)

HEARING DATE: March 2, 2023

TIME: 7:00 p.m. or as soon thereafter as the agenda permits.

LOCATION OF HEARING: Village of Oak Park, 123 Madison Street (Room 201 - Council Chambers) Oak Park, IL 60302

PETITIONER: Village of Oak Park, 123 Madison Street, Oak Park, IL 60302

REQUEST: The Petitioner seeks text amendments to the Oak Park Zoning Ordinance as follows: (1) an amendment to Article 2 (“Definitions & Rules of Measurement”) by adding a definition of a “Teaching and Learning Center”; (2) an amendment to Article 8 (“Uses”) by adding Teaching and Learning Center to the list of uses; and (3) an amendment to Article 14 (“Zoning Approvals”) by adding a new Section 14.10 (“Adaptive Reuse Permit”).

A copy of the proposed text amendment is on file and available for inspection at the Village Hall, Development Customer Services Department, 123 Madison Street, Oak Park, Illinois 60302, during regular business hours, Monday through Friday, between 8:30 a.m. and 5:00 p.m.

The Plan Commission may continue the hearing to another date without further notice by public announcement at the hearing setting forth the time and place thereof.

ALL INTERESTED PERSONS ARE INVITED TO BE HEARD OAK PARK PLAN COMMISSION Oak Park, Illinois 60302

Published in Wednesday Journal February 15, 2023

ORDER THE PRESIDENT AND BOARD OF TRUSTEES VILLAGE OF BROOKFIELD, ILLINOIS

REAL ESTATE FOR SALE

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT - CHANCERY DIVISION NEWREZ LLC DBA SHELLPOINT MORTGAGE SERVICING; Plaintiff, vs. ROSALIE ZAYIA; OAK PARK TERRACE CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION; UNKNOWN OWNERS, GENERALLY AND NONRECORD CLAIMANTS; Defendants, 22 CH 4330

NOTICE OF SALE

PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIV-

EN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above entitled cause Intercounty Judicial Sales Corporation will on Monday, March 13, 2023 at the hour of 11 a.m. in their office at 120 West Madison Street, Suite 718A, Chicago, Illinois, sell at public auction to the highest bidder for cash, as set forth below, the following described mortgaged real estate:

P.I.N. 16-05-320-040-1005.

Commonly known as 914 N. Austin Blvd, Apt A5, Oak Park, IL 60302.

The mortgaged real estate is improved with a condominium residence. The purchaser of the unit other than a mortgagee shall pay the assessments and the legal fees required by subdivisions (g)(1) and (g) (4) of Section 9 of the Condominium Property Act

Sale terms: 10% down by certified funds, balance, by certified funds, within 24 hours. No refunds. The property will NOT be open for inspection.

For information call Mr. Matthew C.

Abad at Plaintiff’s Attorney, Kluever Law Group, 225 West Washington Street, Chicago, Illinois 60606. (312) 236-0077. ADC SMS000539-22FC1 INTERCOUNTY JUDICIAL SALES CORPORATION intercountyjudicialsales.com

I3212746

REAL ESTATE FOR SALE

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT - CHANCERY DIVISION

JPMORGAN CHASE BANK, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION

Plaintiff, -v.MELANIE MARTIN, 300 CHICAGO CONDOMINIUM, UNKNOWN OWNERS AND NONRECORD CLAIMANTS, UNKNOWN HEIRS AND LEGATEES OF HAZEL J. ANTHONY, GERALD NORDGREN, AS SPECIAL REPRESENTATIVE FOR HAZEL J. ANTHONY (DECEASED)

Defendants 2022 CH 04036

300 CHICAGO AVE 4N OAK PARK, IL 60302

NOTICE OF SALE

PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above cause on January 17, 2023, an agent for The Judicial Sales Corporation, will at 10:30 AM on March 1, 2023, at The Judicial Sales Corporation, One South Wacker, 1st Floor Suite 35R, Chicago, IL, 60606, sell at a public sale to the highest bidder, as set forth below, the following described real estate:

Commonly known as 300 CHICAGO AVE 4N, OAK PARK, IL 60302

Property Index No. 16-05-321-0341007

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

REAL ESTATE FOR SALE

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) 7949876

THE JUDICIAL SALES CORPORA-

REAL ESTATE FOR SALE

TION

One South Wacker Drive, 24th Floor, Chicago, IL 60606-4650 (312) 236-

SALE

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. 14-22-03237

Attorney ARDC No. 00468002

Attorney Code. 21762

Case Number: 2022 CH 04036

TJSC#: 43-258

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 # 2022 CH 04036

I3212613

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT - CHANCERY DIVISION

WELLS FARGO BANK, N.A.

Plaintiff, -v.-

MORRIS SMITH, HUMPHREYWASHINGTON CONDOMINIUMS, UNKNOWN OWNERS AND NON-RECORD CLAIMANTS, UNKNOWN OCCUPANTS

Defendants 22 CH 4119 341 S HUMPHREY AVE UNIT 3N OAK PARK, IL 60302

NOTICE OF SALE

PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIV-

EN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above cause on November 30, 2022, an agent for The Judicial Sales Corporation, will at 10:30 AM on March 3, 2023, at The Judicial Sales Corporation, One South Wacker, 1st Floor Suite 35R, Chicago, IL, 60606, sell at a public sale to the highest bidder, as set forth below, the following described real estate:

Commonly known as 341 S HUMPHREY AVE UNIT 3N , OAK PARK, IL 60302

REAL ESTATE FOR SALE REAL ESTATE FOR SALE

Property Index No. 16-08-316-0301015

The real estate is improved with a condominium. The judgment amount was $125,375.04.

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, contact The sales clerk, LOGS Legal Group LLP Plaintiff’s Attorneys, 2121 WAUKEGAN RD., SUITE 301, Bannockburn, IL, 60015 (847) 291-1717 For information call between the hours of 1pm - 3pm.. Please refer to file number 22-096166.

THE JUDICIAL SALES CORPORATION

One South Wacker Drive, 24th Floor, Chicago, IL 60606-4650 (312) 236-

SALE

You can also visit The Judicial Sales Corporation at www.tjsc.com for a 7 day status report of pending sales. LOGS Legal Group LLP 2121 WAUKEGAN RD., SUITE 301 Bannockburn IL, 60015

847-291-1717

E-Mail: ILNotices@logs.com

Attorney File No. 22-096166

Attorney Code. 42168

Case Number: 22 CH 4119

TJSC#: 42-4789

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 # 22 CH 4119 I3212084

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT - CHANCERY DIVISION

THE BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON FKA THE BANK OF NEW YORK, AS TRUSTEE (CWALT 2005-56); Plaintiff, vs. CELESTE MARIOTTI; MORTGAGE ELECTRONIC REGISTRATION SYSTEMS, INC.; THE BANK OF NEW YORK, AS TRUSTEE FOR THE CERTIFICATEHOLDERS OF CWALT, INC., ALTERNATIVE LOAN TRUST 2005-56, MORTGAGE PASSTHROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2005-56; UNKNOWN OWNERS AND NON RECORD CLAIMANTS; Defendants, 18 CH 10982

NOTICE OF SALE PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above entitled cause Intercounty Judicial Sales Corporation will on Monday, March 20, 2023 at the hour of 11 a.m. in their office at 120 West Madison Street, Suite 718A, Chicago, Illinois, sell at public auction to the highest bidder for cash, as set forth below, the following described mortgaged real estate: Commonly known as 634 South Scoville Avenue, Oak Park, IL 60304. P.I.N. 16-18-213-013-0000.

The mortgaged real estate is improved with a single family residence. If the subject mortgaged real estate is a unit of a common interest community, the purchaser of the unit other than a mortgagee shall pay the assessments required by subsection (g-1) of Section 18.5 of the Condominium Property Act.

Sale terms: 10% down by certified funds, balance, by certified funds, within 24 hours. No refunds. The property will NOT be open for inspection

For information call Mr. Andrew Houha at Plaintiff’s Attorney, Johnson, Blumberg & Associates, LLC, 30 North LaSalle, Chicago, Illinois 60602. (312) 541-9710. IL 21 8605

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.

e 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.

is newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. All persons are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised are available on an equal opportunity basis. Restrictions or prohibitions of pets do not apply to service animals.

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

Kris Sagan Linda Rooney

Kyra Pych

Patti Sprafka-Wagner Harry Walsh

Erika Villegas, Managing Broker/Owner Mike Becker Laurie Christofano Marion Digre Morgan Digre Leticia Cruz