WednesdayJournal_062525

WEDNESD AY JOURNAL

St. Catherine-St. Lucy Church hosts one last Mass

By GREGG VOSS Contributing Reporter

Prior to Sunday’s final mass at St. Catherine of Siena-St. Lucy Catholic Church, organ music settled over dozens of cong re gants as they filed in, joining their voices with hundreds more in the nave

Here stood the statue of St. Lucy, holding an olive branch and staring down at the sheer throng of people, an estimated 800 who made the trek from around the area and even across the country to partake in the Eucharist one last time at the church

Greeter George Jones, a kindly Black man pushing 90 years, smiled brightly and shook hands with virtually everyone who entered. Rev. Carl Morello, pastor of St. Catherine-St. Lucy and St. Giles, darted around, making sure final preparations were coming to gether.

Over there was a man with his arms

Emilia Merchen and other St. Catherine-St. Lucy parishioners who were baptized and con rmed in the church stand to be reco gnized. e church is being closed by the Chicago Archdiocese.

By BRENDAN HEFFERNAN Staff Reporter

One of Oak Park’s oldest village government institutions has some new work ahead of it. The Community Relations Commission, a citizen commission established in 1963 to promote good neighbor relations as the village began inte grating, had its description in the village code updated earlier this month to bring

ERICA BENSON

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Pete’s Fresh Market track for winter openin

Project manager told Oak Park’s village board that the project is moving along on pace for opening in ‘December or Januar y’

By BRENDAN HEFFERNAN Staff Reporter

Building a grocery store at Madison Street and Oak Park Avenue has been in the works for the better part of a decade. For the past several years that ef fort focused on building a second Oak Park location for Pete’s Fresh Market. Now, after many delays, Pete’s says an opening day is

about six months away.

The grocery store planned 640-728 Madison St. has been in development since 2018, three years after the chain store’s first location opened in Oak After years of construction delays and pe mit extensions attributed to the Covid pandemic, supply chain issues, the loss of the site’s original architect and other factors.

Project manager Eugene Grzynkowicz said that construction is moving at a pace that will allow the grocery store to open in either December or January.

“You all have seen the progress, a lot of vertical steel standing now and masonry, we completed our north wall, I don’t want to get contentious with our neighbors but we are just about at the end,” Grzynkowicz said at a village board meeting earlier this

month. “We are on our next phase, which will be topping of f with the top of the roof and we will be proceeding with the exterior masonry on Madison Street. Our parking lot is complete, as you see to the west. We have artwork up, which is looking nice. Once it is done it will close it up and decorate that corner. That is where we stand. We are on schedule and happy to open up as soon as possible.”

The grocery store chain’s other location in the village is located at 259 Lake St

Animal Care League holds dog ‘speed dating’ event

After being 50% over capacity, ACL will host adoption event June 26.

By BRENDAN HEFFERNAN Staff Reporter

Oak Park’s Animal Care League (ACL) is hosting a dog speed-dating event this week after re porting it was over capacity with many pets needing help finding new homes.

The event is the latest in a series of community eng agement ef for ts the shelter has pushed recently. ACL hoped to host an open house community event on its campus, June 21, and waived adoption fees last weekend, but a blown transformer forced cancelation.

Thursday’s adoption event will invite prospective dog owners to the shelter’s fa-

cility, at 1009 Garfield St., to meet adoptable pets and enjoy family-friendly games and activities. The event will last from 5 to 7 p.m., according to the shelter.

Last month, Animal Care League Executive Director Renee Harlor told Wednesday Journal that the shelter was 50% over capacity, housing 65 dogs on a site designed to ideally house 41. Caring for the extra animals puts pressure on the shelter’s staf f,

Harlor said.

“Even though we are over capacity, and even though that makes the team work harder, we are very, very, very for tunate to have a team that will work extra, stay longer, work extra days to make sure that the animals all get the proper care,” Harlor said. “It’s a lot on the team … but they do it, and they do it happily because they know it helps the animals.

WEDNESD

AY

k Park and River Forest

Interim Executive Director Max Reinsdorf

Senior Audience Manager Stac y Coleman ter Brendan He ernan

ewpoints Editor Ken Trainor

Real Estate Editor Lacey Sikora

ntributing Editor Donna Greene

Marc Bleso , Nicole Chavas, Jack Crowe, Vincent Gay, Mary Kay O’Grady, John Stanger, Josh VanderBerg

Shrubtown Cartoonist Marc Stopeck

Design/Production Manager Andrew Mead

Editorial Design Manager Javier Govea

Designers Susan McKelvey, Vanessa Garza

Senior Media Strategist Lourdes Nicholls

Marketing & Adver tising Associate Emma Cullnan

Development Manager Mary Ellen Nelligan

Circulation Manager Jill Wagner

Operations Associate Susan Babin

Special Projects Manager Susan Walker

Chairman Emeritus Robert K. Downs

Senior Advisor Dan Haley

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Chair Eric Weinheimer | Treasurer Nile Wendor f Deb Abrahamson, Mary Cahillane, Steve Edwards, Judy Gre n, Horacio Mendez, Charles Meyerson Darnell Shields, Audra Wilson

JAVI GOVEA

Pete’s Fresh Market const ruction site

Scaman appoints Derek Eder to Oak Park trustee seat

Eder, a local tech developer and entrepreneur, will take over Susan Buchanan’s vacant seat

By BRENDAN HEFFERNAN Staff Reporter

Oak Park has filled the vacant seat on its Board of Trustees and is ready to move forward on various issues including sustainability.

At Tuesday June 17’s board meeting, Village President Vicki Scaman nominated Derek Eder to take over the trustee seat that Susan Buchanan resigned from last month. Eder’s appointment was approved unanimously by the other trustees.

Buchanan resigned in May shortly after the April municipal election, saying that she was bur ned out from the job

In his introductory remarks as a new trustee, Eder thanked Buchanan for her service and leadership on sustainability issues and he would continue this emphasis.

“I thank Dr. Susan Buchanan for her many years of service to Oak Park and as a tireless leader for climate action in our village,” he said. “I am here to continue Susan Buchanan’s climate action leadership at the village board. “

He added: “I would also like to thank President Scaman for her faith in me to assume this great role in public service, and her continued leadership of our village, and to the village board, my new fellow colleagues.”

Scaman said that with Eder signed on, the village board is ready to make more progress on its goals with his help.

“Derek is compassionate, patient, knowledgeable in government processes and he will be an incredible asset serving along-

side the talented trustees elected by the residents of Oak Pa a brilliant addition to our board. most definitely ready to go.”

Last month, she told that she wanted to prioritize appointing someone with a similar qualities and commitment to sustainability as Buchanan to take over the vacated seat.

“I don’t know that I’m going to rush to make a decision,” Scaman said “Last time, I did an actual process and I sought to try and put some real ef fort into listening to munity was voting for the trustee that had resigned, and so in this case I will reflect upon that with Susan and the gap that she might be leaving from the community’s perspecti

Eder is a member of the Oak mate Action Network volunteer which Buchanan was a co-founder. Eder’s work to electrify his Park Home” was highlighted in a short documentary by the village he has followed with a series of og p outlining how his family has worked to run their home as green as possible.

“Oak Park is already a leader on climate action, but we still have so far to go. According to our own climate action plan we have less than five years to reduce our climate pollution by 60%,” he said. “We have amazing, dedicated staf f and several promising programs, like the Energy Efficiency and Electrification Grants and Building Benchmarking, that will help us get there, but we need to move faster. But we must do

Derek Eder explains the heat pump hot

during an ‘open houses’ tour in April.

so equitably, providing grants and education while removing barriers so we can all benefit from the clean energy transition.”

Eder is a tech developer and entrepreneur, with many of his projects foc used on building civic technolo gy platfor ms –tech tools that help citizens understand and eng age with their gover nments. He’s worked on projects focused on carbon emissions, legislative transparency, zoning and mass incarceration.

“I have dedicated the past 15 years of my life to serve the public good through community organizing, policy, data and technolo gy,” he said. “It has been through the lens of technolo gy and data that I have gained a deep and valuable education on civics, gover nment operations and policy I believe that technology can be a positive lever for good in our society, as long as it is centered in transparency, democracy, justice and equity.”

One project Eder developed compiled Oak Park’s village budg ets from 2013 to 2023, breaking down department-by-de-

partment spending in an easily accessibl e format

Eder r uns DataMade, a civic technolog y firm he founded. DataMade’s clients include the Los Angeles Metropolitan Transportation Authority, the Illinois Department of Public Health and the City of Chicago.

He also founded Chi Hack Night, a non-profit built around a weekly event in which people from a variety of backgrounds work to g ether to turn public data into helpful civic technolo gy tools.

He is raising two children in Oak Park with his par tner, Aya, Eder said.

“We love Oak Park for its active community, excellent schools, beautiful parks, wonderful facilities and its values and commitment to advancing racial equity and social justice,” Eder said. “As a village trustee, I will strive to live up to these values, to plug into the work that is already underway, and to join the movement that continues to guide our Village into a brighter future for all its residents.”

water heater in his all-electric Oak Park home

A NOTE FROM THE EDITOR

A huge paper, a $15K Match. What are you waiting for?

Dear Wednesday Journal readers, It is a big week here at the Journal and Growing Community Media, our nonprofit newsroom.

We are closing out our Spring Fund Dr ive as June 30 approaches. No we have n’ t reached our c ritical dollar goal yet. But we have a little time and a brand new $15,000 Match from a ve ry generous supporter, wh ich is up, running and already wo rk ing.

Th at makes this your moment to invest in local news if you see it s value and understand just how fragile a moment this is for inde p endent, authentic local re po rt ing.

To day’s paper is also chock full of news, letters to the editor, prep spor ts and three special sections. Tumbling out of the paper will be our annual An swer Book. This wonderful guide to Oak Pa rk and Rive r Fo rest is full of surprises and tops out at 108 page s. T he annual Pride section is tucke d in at the end of the news section. Urge you to read a ve ry thoughtful essay by a junior at OPRF about coming out to f amily as transgender. A remarkable piece of writing that we are honored to share. And there is also a special section from Austin Coming To g ether, one of the most impactful org anizations on the West Side. Want to shatter some of your perc ep tions of Austin?

Ta ke a look at this celebration of the opening of the Aspire Center fo r Wo rk force Innovation. It’s at Madison and Laramie and is a stunner

Because of all the ener gy (and hard wo rk and adve rt ising) in this issue, we are also mailing an extra 5,000 copies of the Jour nal to people across Oak Pa rk and Rive r Fo rest. If you are one of them, if you say, “Did not know my hometown had an honest-to-God news-

paper!” or “Why did I ever let my subscription lapse? ” then take action. Re -u p our sub. Details are just to the right of this column. Or if you’d rather have our news in your inbox that is great. Sign up for our newsletters at OakPark. om/newsletters and we will ke ep you in the know. And at some point we will ask you to invest in thi s hard-wo rk ing, awardwinning, always innovating nonprofit newsroom. We ’ve got 6 days to the end of this fiscal year. Ye s, we know you do n’ t really care about our fiscal year. But it is important to us. An d with this $15K Match, every dollar d onated by a reader will be doubled. Th at is a lot of positive impact fl owing into our small newsroom. And be clear, every reader dollar goes straight to suppo rt a re porter ’s salar y, a freelancer fee, an assignment for our p hoto gr apher

We know you are reading our storie s. We need you to help pay for them. We sell ad s. We sell subscriptions We sell sponsorships. And now we need to sell you on becoming an investor in our newsroom. Reader suppo rt is the f uture of a thriving local nonprofit newsroom.

You know that local news is under stress. Whether it is the intentional under mining of a free press in a fragile democra cy or the challenges of reinventing how we do business, our needs are genuine and immediate. If you value wh at we do, then join in right now. It is easy and it will connec t you even more with your hometown. Th at ’s wh at we do . Connect. So donate. Right now. OakPark .com/Donate With gratitude,

Dan Haley Interim Editor

CRC Rede ning Community Relations

its work in line with village staf f’s broader DEI goals. The next week, the village board approved a work plan for the group that tasks the commission with helping Oak Park’s new DEI chief make progress on several early priorities.

The update to the commission’s enabling ordinance follows a series of workshops with village leaders and CRC members.

“It was a great experience to get aligned with leadership in the village to make sure the CRC has the space and support to be able to support the board goals,” Yoko Terretta, the commission chair, told the village board.

The new work plan for the commission gives it a budget of $10,000 and directs its ef for ts towards a variety of projects. One project will be helping the village’s new DEI chief make progress on updates to the village’s human rights ordinance and racial equity action plan. The CRC has five vacancies, according to the most recent citizen commission staf fing re port

The village has budgeted $8,000 for 8 commissioners to receive special training on community building methods.

“The purpose of these workshops was to create role clarity, update duties and functions in line with current needs of the community, and inform the commissioner recruitment process,” village documents

said. “Since 2020, commission membership has fluctuated, at least in part due to a lack of alignment between commission expectations, staf f expectations, board expectations and the enabling village code language that outlines the commission’s duties. These workshops aided all stakeholders by not only creating intentional and mutually agreed upon ordinance revisions, subject to the board’s approval, but by identifying and clarifying CRC commissioner responsibilities in relation to Community Relations and DEI staf f responsibilities.”

Village Manager Kevin Jackson said the village board will see work from the CRC commissioners soon that reflects its newly ratified alignment with village staf f.

“I want to just say from the outset that these contemplated code changes reflect our interest in trying to find a modern alignment with the cur rent operations of community relations activities out of the DEI office, but also alignment with the vision for future operations of the office,” Jackson said. “This is really important because as you will see with the code changes, you will star t to see operational activities that you review in the near future that may be new and different, but yet, still in alignment with the updated code changes.”

“I just think this is a really important item to pay attention to because there’s a lot that comes after this.”

The updated enabling ordinance clarifies the roles of commissioners, updates key definitions, and emphasizes the importance of experience with “community eng agement, mediation, facilitation, project management, and cultural compe-

tence,” for commissioners, according to Assistant Village Manager Kira Tchang. The commission will move forward on these goals after several years in flux, and with several open seats still available on the commission.

In July 2020, six of the CRC’s commissioners resigned all at once saying that the village board had “made their position clear by dismissing the work of the CRC and failing to demonstrate reasonable,

measurable progress on racial equity,” according to their joint resignation letter. Several of the commissioners who resigned at that time are back serving on the CRC, including Terretta.

Kellye Keyes’ first official day as DEI chief was June 23. She comes to the village with decades of legal experience and a stint as head of Illinois’ statewide Commission on Equity and Inclusion.

West Sub admits patients from Weiss a er AC failure

Right coverage. Right price. Right here in town.

Owners report West Sub’s HVAC was fully replaced in 2024

By DAN HALEY Interim Editor

Co lin F ane, A gent

212 S Marion Street Fl G Oak Park, IL 60302

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With its sister hospital, Weiss Memorial, suffering a “catastrophic loss” of its air-conditioning system just as Chicago entered an extreme heat wave, West Suburban Hospital Medical Center admitted 22 Weiss patients beginning June 17.

Resilience Healthcare, the owner of both West Sub and Weiss, blamed the failure of the HVAC at Weiss on neglect by the previous owners. Like West Sub, Weiss has cycled through a series of owners in recent times. Resilience was for med two years ago to purchase the two hospitals out of bankruptcy from its most recent owner.

Forest, has been much in the news locally with re ports of deteriorating physical conditions, including chronically failing elevators and some medical equipment.

In response to an inquiry last week, though, a spokesman for Resilience said the entire HVAC system at West Sub was re placed in 2024. T hey declined to provide the cost of that upgrade.

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CBS2 News re ported that a half-dozen trucks from HVAC contractors were in the parking lot, June 17. In a statement, the Uptown-based hospital said it expected it would take from several days to a couple of weeks to restore the cooling system. Other re porting indicated delays were expected as hard-to-find parts needed to be located and shipped.

West Sub, a safety-net hospital serving the West Side and Oak Park and River

Here’s the deal. The right insurance should help you feel confident and comfortable. I’m the right good neighbor for that. Call me today.

Asked about Jour nal re porting of ongoing elevator and, more recently, cooling issues at West Sub’s River Forest campus on Lake Street, the spokesperson said two of the three buildings there are not experiencing either elevator or HVAC issues. However, the statement, attributed to Dr. Manoj Prasad, Resilience CEO, acknowledged that the third building in River Forest has had HVAC issues, which “get addressed as they arise and the landlord is working on a more permanent solution.” Prasad said West Sub “often loans our clinical space” to other tenants when there are HVAC issues.

Like a good neighbor, State Farm is there.®

Colin Fane, Agent

Colin Fane, Agent

212 S Marion Street Fl G

212 S Marion Street Fl G

Oak Park, IL 60302

Oak Park, IL 60302

Bus: 708-383-3163 www.colinfane.com

Bus: 708-383-3163 www.colinfane.com

Monday & Friday 9am-5pm Tues/Wed/Thurs 9am-7pm Saturday 9am-12pm

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At Weiss all patients were transfer red out last week and ambulances have been diver ted from its ER, which remains open for walk-ups.

Right coverage. Right price. Right here in town.

Right here in town.

Colin Fane, Agent

212 S Marion Street Fl G

Oak Park, IL 60302

Bus: 708-383-3163

www.colinfane.com

Here’s the deal. The right insurance should help you feel confident and comfortable. I’m the right good neighbor for that. Call me today.

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JESSICA MORDACQ

West Suburban Medical Center

Rush expands but not on Oak Park campus

Nor th and Harlem outpatient facility opens in July

By GREGG VOSS Contributing Reporter

As a youngster, Dr. Dino Rumoro used to visit the now-demolished Sears store at 1601 N. Harlem Ave. It was the trendy place to buy everything from Toughskins jeans to corduroy pants.

“Sears was always so cool,” Rumoro recently reminisced. “You could get candy, snacks, you could sit on a lawn mower. It was great.”

Now, as president of Rush Oak Park Hospital, he’s on the eve of the opening of a three-story, 60,000-square-foot outpatient center on the same property, called Rush North and Harlem. The first patients are scheduled for July 1, with all doctor and coordinator offices opening July 7.

He’s looking forward to what the facility will bring for the Austin and Galewood neighborhoods, but so is Ald. Chris Taliafer ro of the 29th Ward

“It really provides an opportunity to have quality healthcare services right in the neighborhood,” Taliafer ro said. “I supported the project at its onset. I thought it was a wonderful opportunity for Austin and the Galewood neighborhood. There was a lot of space to work with due to the demolition of the Sears site.”

Rumoro said there is a need for Rush North and Harlem due to the simple fact

that Rush Oak Park Hospital is landlocked, by Harlem Avenue and Madison Street on the west and north and residential neighborhoods to the east and south. Lack of parking is a major issue; essentially, Rush Oak Park wasn’t designed for the volume of patients there, he said.

“It’s a very old campus,” he said. “The first buildings are from the early 1900s.”

Conversely, Rush North and Harlem has about 90 rooms, including examination, consultation and procedure rooms, and surface parking with nearly 200 spaces. Rumoro said there will be “a lot of new and advanced technology,” including an MRI unit, a 3 Tesla (3T) MRI unit, a CAT scan unit, ultrasound and advanced breast cancer screening.

There will also be an urgent care at Rush North and Harlem that will open at 7 a.m., which should handle low-acuity cases.

Geofencing is another plus, he said, and should create efficiencies.

“When you download the Rush app, you can complete your re gistration before you go up to the doctor’s office,” he said. “It’s like passing through a fence. You should be able to go to your appointment, and you can hopefully get right into your patient room.

“The patients are going to notice this is going to be a seamless process.”

There will also be an onsite pharmacy, which is another way to increase efficiencies.

“If a doctor prescribes a medication, you can get it from the pharmacy before you even leave,” Rumoro said. “We want to make sure you have your first prescription.”

Rush Oak Park Hospital President Dino Rumoro, with 29th Ward Alderman Chris Taliaferro (le ) and 78th District state Representative Camille Lilly, speaks at a press conference announcing const ruction of a new outpatient facility at the site of the old Sears store at North and Harlem avenues in Chicago in 2023.

David Osta, one of the leaders of Center West Oak Park Neighborhood Association, said that while “we think it’s great their expansion didn’t involve taking more residential housing that they’ve done in the past,” there are “definitely still concerns” about Rush Oak Park Hospital.

“Over the years they have expanded the campus by buying properties and bulldozing them, making them parking lots,” Osta said. “The newest piece of the puzzle is they bought the currency exchange at Harlem and Madison. They own it now and they will eventually have a plan for that. I would imagine they would make it parking.”

“There are some old facilities to be upgraded or re placed, so some of our biggest concerns have been about building heights, if they were to expand within their current campus,” he said.

Over the years, the association has en-

gaged directly with the hospital re garding allowable building heights, including a text amendment with the village of Oak Park that would have established a by-right height of 60 feet, requiring a variance for any building over 60 feet. That measure ultimately failed in a 4-3 vote in June 2023.

“We’ve tried to work with the village and Rush to get a resolution from that point of view, changing the by-right height to 60 feet,” Osta said, adding West Suburban Medical Center came to a 50-foot by-right height ag reement in an eng agement with the neighbors and the village in 2017.

“If the neighborhood and hospital can’t do it, then the village should step in,” he said. “It’s in the village’s interest to balance the needs of the hospital and the neighborhood.

“To date, the village has not done that and we’re hopeful they will do that in the future.”

USDA cuts are impacting Beyond Hunger

But potential cuts from ‘One Big Beautiful Bill Act’ are equally concerning

By GREGG VOSS Contributing Reporter

Federal cuts to the United States Department of Agriculture are indirectly affecting Beyond Hunger, the Oak Park-based food pantry.

But cuts to Medicaid and the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) that could come in wake of passage of some form of the Trump administration’s One Big Beautiful Bill Act are equally concerning.

According to Jennie Hull, the new Beyond Hunger executive director, about 65% of the food pantry’s food comes from the Greater Chicago Food Depository. Of that, nearly 30% is considered food from USDA.

“When there are cuts to USDA, that impacts the food that food pantries receive,”

Hull said. “Now we have to purchase that food.”

Laura Gutier re z, Beyond Hunger board president, added that USDA cuts have created a domino effect locally.

“A good portion of our food comes from GCFD, which comes from USDA,” Gutierre z said, noting that the food pantry sometimes serves 300 families on Saturdays and up to 200 families on Wednesdays.

“Since Covid, our numbers have only increased in need,” she said. “We don’t want to serve people less food. We want to provide as much nutritious food as possible.”

Hull, who has worked for a decade in food pantries, said it remains to be seen how the One Big Beautiful Bill Act could create further issues for

pantries receive. Now we have to purchase that food.”

JENNIE HULL Executive Director

Beyond Hunger, located at 848 Lake St.

SNAP, she said, is a food stamp ogram that is designed, in part, to work with food pantries.

“When people use SNAP, it stretches the amount of money further,” Hull said. “Grocery stores would get money back through SNAP and that suppor ts the local economy.”

One in four people in Illinois are on Medicaid, she added, so cuts to that program could place families in a position of deciding whether to pay for medications or food.

“If you force people to make that hard decision (it will) increase demand for Beyond Hunger,” she said. “If they lose any of those benefits, suddenly that need goes up.

“It’s harder and harder to keep up with demands in a

dignified way. We’re already seeing a giant need due to inflation.”

Gutier re z said the potential of SNAP and Medicaid cuts are “deeply concerning.

“We won’t know what affects us until something gets pushed through,” she said. “We just hear there are going to be major cuts. There’s only speculation.

“Until GCFD sees any concrete cuts, that means we’re going to have to do more purchasing power on our end.”

Both Hull and Gutier re z said community support is welcomed, and that can be achieved multiple ways beyond cash donations.

For example, residents could host a food drive and deliver the acquired items to Beyond Hunger.

“Donating is great, but dollars are hard for everyone, not only for the residents we’re serving,” Gutier re z said. “We rely a lot on volunteers. They have their children even volunteering. Also, participating in advocacy; calling your lawmakers. SNAP and Medicaid go hand in hand with getting families nutritious foods.”

Village hires Oak Parker as new DEI leader

Kellye Keyes brings experience leading a statewide agency on DEI e orts

By BRENDAN HEFFERNAN Staff Reporter

Oak Park has found a new leader for its Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion.

Months after the resignation Danielle Walker, the first person to ever hold the position, Oak Park has named Kellye Keyes as its new Chief Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Officer. Keyes, an Oak Parker and a licensed attorney with decades of public sector leadership experience, will head up Oak Park’s DEI ef for ts including “the development and implementation of the village’s first-ever Racial Equity Action Plan,” the village said in a press release. Her first day with the village is set for

June 23.

“As someone who calls Oak Park home, I’m truly honored to step into this role and build on the important underway,” said deeply about this community and believe in the po equity to drive forward to listening, learning, and working together with village leadershi and business owners to ensure that equity and inclusion are not just values we uphold, but practices we embed across every aspect of our village operations.”

KELLYE KEYES

Keyes previously served as the first ever chairperson and executive director of the Illinois Commission on Equity and Inclusion, where she was appointed by Gov. JB Pritzker to launch and lead a new state agency tasked with dismantling systemic barriers to equity in public contracting and hiring, according to the village.

She held that post from January 2022 to June 2023, according to her LinkedIn profile.

yes has also held senior leadership roles with the State llinois Executive Ethics Commission, the Chief dge’s Office of the Circuit ook County and the Chicago Housing Authorshe led multimillion, directed complilanning departments and helped establish the Restorative Justice Community Court of the Circuit Court of Cook County, according to the village

“We are thrilled to welcome Kellye to Oak Park,” said Village Manager Kevin Jackson. “Her extraordinary combination of legal expertise, public sector leadership and demonstrated commitment to advancing equity makes her uniquely qualified to lead this work here in Oak Park She is the right leader at the right time to help us continue

to build a more inclusive community.”

Keyes holds a law de gree from American University and an undergraduate de gree from Emory University. She is licensed to practice law in Illinois, she is a trained Restorative Justice Practitioner and holds a Project Management Certification from Loyola University Chicago, according to the village

Keyes’ predecessor Walker resigned after two years as the village’s DEI chief. Her projects in the role included leading cultural competency training sessions for the village board, sponsoring and promoting Oak Park’s Juneteenth celebration and helping the village create a racial equity assessment, although that report has not been released and the Engage Oak Park page associated with the project hasn’t been updated since December 2023.

In the role, Keyes will also work as the village’s “human rights ordinance administrator” and as the staff liaison to several citizen commissions, according to the village

ART BEAT

Forest eatre, Madison Street eater partner on year-round plays

The theater group and event space are launching their rst year-round season together

By JESSICA MORDACQ Staff Reporter

If you haven’ t already, dust of f your picnic blankets and lawn chairs in preparation for the upcoming fifth annual Shakespeare in the Park, which will mark the end of Forest T heatre Company’s 20242025 run.

After this Shakespeare in the Park, Forest Theatre Company will launch its first year-round season – and its first in collaboration with Madison Street Theater in Oak Park – bringing together the only two yearround nonprofit theater organizations in the area to build up professional theater in the western suburbs.

“We can do a lot more than we can solo,” said Richard Corley, founder of Forest T heatre Company, of the new partnership. Madison Street T heater, which rents its space to other organizations, provides stage and administrat ive support to Forest T heatre Company’s acting and production work

Shakespeare in the Park Aug. 8, 9, 10, 15, 16 and 17

“We both bring different points of view to the table and are looking to maximize what we can do for our community,” said Lisa Green, managing director at Madison Street Theater. “We can’t do this many productions from the ground up. We don’t have the resources,” Green added. “This is a known value to us. We know the work they produce is good.”

Their partnership started last year, when Forest Theatre Company, then Forest Park Theatre, put on “The Misanthrope” at Madison Street Theater. It was the group’s first indoor production since Corley started Shakespeare in the park in 2021 and nearly sold out.

Marking the end of the 2024-2025 season, this year’s free Shakespeare in the Park play will be “The Two Noble Kinsmen,” performed outside at the Altenheim. The play is thought to be Shakespeare’s last, written just a few years before his death in 1616.

“It’s a beautiful play about friendship and the effects of war on love, friendship and mar riage. It’s also the queerest thing I think Shakespeare ever wrote,” Corley said. “He was open to love in all its forms,” he added, exploring “love between people of the same sex, how is that love different from loving a person of the opposite sex, how is it similar, how do we measure that?”

STEPHEN GREEN PHOTOGRAPHY

Richard Corley and Lisa Green on stage at Madison Street eater.

“The Two Noble Kinsmen” centers on two lifelong best friends who “talk to each other like they’re in love,” Corley said. It also stars Emilia, who’s only ever had one love in her life – a woman who died. When the two friends both fall in love with Emilia, she’s forced to choose

Taking place in a patriarchal, miso gynistic world, the play explores the power of women and explores questions Corley said society is still asking itself today: “We’ re still unsure about things like sexuality, gender and what part the political system should play,” Corley said. “That’s why I want to do it right now.”

Electra

Nov. 13 - 23

Come fall, Forest Theatre Company will launch its first year-round season with Sophocles’ “Electra,” a play about justice and the law, Corley said. In “Electra,” a woman’s father kills her mother, and her brother is exiled. The woman waits for her brother to come back to avenge their mother.

Corley said he’s been wanting to put on the Greek tragedy for years, specifically the rarely produced version adapted by American poet Ezra Pound, who lived much of

his life in Europe. Pound was arrested for treason in his support for Hitler and Mussolini, pled insanity, and helped translate “Electra” while in a United States hospital.

The

Illusion  Jan. 29 - Feb. 8

At the start of next year, Forest Theatre Company and Madison Street Theater are putting on their first co-production with “The Illusion.” This play follows a lawyer who drives his son away, then travels to find a wizard, who tells the father visions of his son’s adventurous and perilous life.

Corley said “The Illusion” covers themes of loss and longing but is romantic and funny with lots of sword fighting and mystery. It’s also a re presentation of the company and theater’s new partnership.

Green – who spent two decades as a photo grapher and has danced her whole life –doesn’t have a theater background but says she’s excited to learn more about the production side of things, especially through “The Illusion.”

“It’s an interesting story and you don’t know where it’s going,” Green said. She added that Madison Street Theater puts on many musicals. And though she’s a selfproclaimed “musical nut,” Forest Theatre

Company’s plays aren’t as for mulaic.

Arms and the Man  April 23 - May 3

Next spring, Forest Theatre Company is producing “Arms and the Man,” a comedy by George Bernard Shaw set in 1885 at the end of the Serbo-Bulgarian War. The play tells the story of an eng aged Bulgarian woman who comes face-to-face with a soldier fighting for Serbia, becoming torn between two men.

Corley said “Arms and the Man” is a story about the absurdity of war and patriotism. He chose the play with input from the cast of “The Misanthrope,” who will all star in “Arms and the Man.”

Supporting local theater

In its 2026-2027 season, Forest Theatre Company will launch Classics Now, “our opportunity to find Chicago playwrights, support their work and bring their work to the western suburbs,” Corley said. Forest Theatre Company will call for submissions of new plays. Throughout the season, Corley said there will be several evenings where the company and its actors work with a chosen playwright on

WHEN MEMORY FADES HOPE DOESN'T.

their script – all to develop Forest Theatre Company’s identity and support emerging Chicagoland playwrights.

The ef fort is an expansion of local theater at a time when other institutions are struggling. For example, Dominican University announced this year that it’s ending admissions to its theater arts program.

“This attack on free speech and the arts and trans rights – which are all a piece of a plan to centralize power – has a chilling effect on everyone’s ability to create opportunity for the arts,” Corley said. He added that, historically, “theater is one of the first things autocrats shut down.”

But Corley and Green aren’t too worried about their future, as long as they have community support and funding. So, the two are working on “building a patron base that is as excited about what we’re doing as we are,” Green said.

Corley said each play that Forest Theater Company produces costs about $30,000, including funds to pay all actors and crew members.

“If the communities that we’re discussing want year-round high-quality professional theater in their lap, they have to support it,” Corley said. “We’ve got the art, the space, now we need the community.”

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Visit Cantata.org for more senior living advice or call (708) 387-1030.

LAST MASS

‘Holy Spirit

showed from page 1

crossed and a somber countenanc in realization that the end was finally here after the announcement March church at 27 Washington Blvd. in Oak would be closing.

But for the most part, this was a day of celebration, of reuniting with family old friends and classmates from St. Catherine-St. Lucy School.

Of tears, yes. But of laughter and handshakes and hugs as well.

“The sadness we feel is real,” Morello proclaimed during his homily. “We cannot rush past it. But today, let’s honor it. Let’s also let it open up to what is next. Because God is not done with us yet. Amen?”

And in one voice, of those in the congreg ation and perhaps also the many who flowed through its doors since the current church building opened in 1931, everyone responded.

“Amen!”

St. Catherine-St. Lucy Church choir leads a packed church in song and chee r.

Later, Morello asked that everyone who had been baptized at St. Catherine-St. Lucy please stand. Dozens upon dozens did so, everyone from the young to many with nests of gray hair.

There were also plenty who had gotten married in the crowd, like Kari and John Pechous, who did so back on Dec. 15, 2007. There was a big snowstorm that day, which contrasted with Sunday’s sweltering mid90s heat.

“There are a lot more people here today than there were at our wedding,” Kari Pechous deadpanned after services were complete and dozens still milled about in front of the altar, taking final photos. In chatting with the couple and their young son, it was clear that St. Catherine-St. Lucy’s impact transcended both time and space. The Pechouses are from La Grange and made the trek over. But there was more.

“My parents actually got married here, so it had extra meaning to us,” John Pechous added.

The two who had perhaps the best view of the proceedings were the brother-andsister server team of Aaron and Ava Konecki.

What was it like being on the altar and realizing this was it?

“Lots of waterworks,” said Ava Konecki, who attends Xavier University in Cincinnati. “I took a lot of it in, like looking at the stained-glass windows and just how intri-

cate, and I remembered back to when I was a kid, and sitting and looking at the lights.

“Growing up here,” she added, fighting back tears, “it made me really emotional. It was hard, but I pulled it together.”

Ditto for her brother.

“It was very surreal, because I kind of grew up in this church, and my dad, he’s been here since he was a kid, and now I’ve been there, and it’s very sad to see it go,” said Aaron Konecki, who attends Oak Park and River Forest High School.

Valerie Jennings, who lives in Austin, has been a parishioner at St. Catherine-St. Lucy since the 1980s, after St. Catherine of Siena and St. Lucy merged in 1974. She spoke at the be ginning of the service.

“I found myself having to just hold it down,” Jennings said, adding she broke down and cried at communion. “That’s why we come. We come to feast upon the table, and I look at that table one last time … I’ll never be able to eat at that table again.

“I’ll eat at the table of God, somewhere. At St. Giles and other places. But this is home. It was tough at communion.”

After the service, in the sacristy, with robes and vestments put away one last time, Morello reclined on a chair and let his own emotions catch up with him over months of prayer and preparation.

“Being the celebrant, you try to hold it all to g ether, spiritually, because as I said there is the bitterness and the sadness,

but there is also the hope of who we are as a people of faith,” he said. “So it’s a lot of pressure.

“But as a man of faith, I count on the Holy Spirit, and I would say at the end of it all, the Holy Spirit showed up.”

Morello was buoyed by the bigger moments of the service, like during the offertory, when the praise choir sang a joyful song titled, “Every Praise.” Morello stood and be g an clapping, and suddenly everyone stood and joined in, which concluded with thunderous applause

While the St. Catherine-St. Lucy church building is now closed, Morello pointed out to the cong re gation that its le gacy will continue.

St. Catherine-St. Lucy School will remain open, while SisterHouse, which offers a temporary home to women seeking recovery from substance abuse, will remain in the church’s for mer convent building. T he Neighborhood Bridge and the Faith and Fellowship Ministry will continue to operate out of the re purposed rector y, along with Housing Forward, an emergency over night shelter

And as the cong re gation united their voices in St. Catherine-St. Lucy one last time, they sang a closing hymn of hope.

“I got a feeling, everything’s gonna be all right.

“Be all right.

“Be all right.”

ERICA BENSON

Oak Park to expand requisites, training for property managers

Changes address concerns over following fair housing policies in the village

By BRENDAN HEFFERNAN Staff Reporter

The Oak Park Village Board reviewed a series of staf f recommendations that update local housing policies after a civil rights group’s investigation uncovered a pattern of incomebased discrimination last year.

At its June 17 meeting, the board heard from Oak Park Neighborhood Services Director Johnathon Burch during a study session covering updates to a series of village ordinances involving tenant and landlord relations, many of which focus on how rental staf f must be trained on tenants’ rights issues. The session followed a re port submitted to the village board last October by HOPE Fair Housing Center, which said its independent investigation had found that intake processes at several local housing providers discriminated against people receiving housing voucher assistance.

The discussion was an early step for the village as it looks toward for malizing a set of refor ms to its residential rental licensing code, which it hopes will promote fairer tenantlandlord relations in the village, in line with its stated commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion.

process, the village’s residential rental license revocation and suspension processes for negligent property managers, and rules on what information landlords are required to provide to tenants about community resources.

“The intention is to keep those things moving,” Burch said.

The staf f recommendations were developed with feedback from HOPE, village housing providers, and other stakeholders, such as Housing Forward, Burch said.

“The HOPE recommendation is that ever ybody should receive training because the people who would be violating fair housing laws might not just be the owner or the agent.”

JOHNATHON BURCH Neighborhood Services Director

In addition to new requirements for training programs, the package that will go before the board also involves code changes updating onthe-books provisions related to such issues as landlord responsibilities in the eviction

ONLINE & IN-PERSON JULY 3–4

DEEPEN YOUR SPIRITUAL PATH AND ACTIVATE MORE CREATIVE POSSIBILITIES IN YOUR LIFE.

Bill Planek, president of artments, which manages and operates over 60 buildings in and rk, said the suggested updates to the code sense in terms of the vil-

e trying to create a better procedure to keep property owners in the loop on new trends that they see,” Planek said. “I think it’s important that the village tries to stay on top of that to make sure that they’ re able to interject when they see things aren’t going the way they think it should, to make sure things stay in balance, and that the tenants and prospective residents’ rights are respected. With the training they want to do, they want to make it more approachable and comprehensive and that’s a good thing.”

In February, HOPE received another village contract to conduct testing of Oak Park housing providers’ screening processes and other potential barriers to prospective tenants. HOPE’s village contract asks them to conduct that testing with dozens of Oak Park housing providers.

The proposed updates follow the recent appointment of Kellye Keyes as the vilSee FAIR HOUSING on pa ge 19

What’s happening behind those groovy walls on Harlem?

Pretty Original Thing, fast food infused with cannabis, blocked from opening by state health o cials

By MICHAEL DRAKULICH Contributing Reporter

A bakery/restaurant specializing in cannabis-infused baked goods was scheduled to open at 123 S. Harlem Ave. sometime this month. It is the site where a Mr. Beef once operated and that is most notable now for the retro mural now covering the exterior. But the opening has been delayed and the business owners, parent company, and the village of Forest Park have provided little meaningful of ficial information about what has stalled the opening . T he new restaurant, called Pretty Original Thing, bills itself on its Insta gram page as the first federally le gal restaurant that features a “4twenty (cannabis) infused savory menu.” This would be the second area location for Pretty Original Thing. It has another location at 1659 W. Division St. in Chicago.

According to its Insta gram page, Pretty Original Thing is an of fshoot of Wake N Bakery, a business that offers a variety of cannabis-infused baked goods, as well as cannabis-infused drinks and packaged goods. Wake N Bakery has locations throughout the country including on Lake Street in Oak Park.

Despite some info rmation being available online about the business, the business owners and Forest Park village officials have said very little. Forest Park Review, Wednesday Journal’s sister paper, reached out to village officials, including Village Administrator Rachell Entler and Steve Glinke, head of public health and safety, multiple times collectively over the past several weeks, and neither retur ned our calls for comment.

Freedom of Information requests filed by the Review with the village government have also not yielded much information.

However, a subsequent FOIA request of the Cook County Department of Public Health yielded more than just health violations. According to records, the state department of public health has prevented the business from

Pretty Original ing Bakery, 123 S. Harlem Ave., Forest Park.

opening. The documents don’t detail a reason why the state is apparently preventing the opening, but the owners of the new business, who are apparently the same people who own Mr. Beef, appealed to the county health de partment to override the state’s decision. According to Alisha Patel, assistant general counsel for Cook County Health, the county is not able to do what the business owners requested.

“Please be advised that, pursuant to 20 ILCS 2310/231015, CCDPH as a certified local health department, does not have authority to act contrary to determinations made by IDPH,” Patel wrote in an email. “CCDPH may only ‘administer and enforce the minimum program standards promulgated by the [Illinois Department of Public Health]’ within its local jurisdiction,” the email stated.

The Review’s comprehensive FOIA request to Village Clerk Vanessa Belmonte, asked for info rmation on any zoning changes made, special use permits granted, information on the specifics of the business type/purpose, info rmation on the parent company, and any indicatio n when the business would open. Ms. Belmonte provided two documents, both health inspection re ports from Aug. 2024 and Jan. 2025 when the site operated as Mr. Beef According to the January health inspection, the Cook County Department of Public Health found numerous violations, including not having the proper resources to deal with sick patrons, no handwashing signs for employees, an inadequate supply of hand soap, improper maintenance of equipment, and an inadequate supply of sanitizing test kits. T he owners will have to correct

those issues in time for subsequent inspections prior to opening

Attempts to reach officials at Pretty Original Thing directly yielded nothing. T heir website is still under construction. Howeve r, the site did take requests for information. We reached out several times on the website, as well as reached out through its social media pages and have not heard back. T he company does have someone monitoring its social media pages and have responded to comments from its audience.

Forest Park Review had also reached out to Pretty Original Thing’s parent company, Wake n Bakery. Its owner, Dr Mohamed Lotfy, said the company is happy to be operating in Forest Park soon.

“We’re thrilled to introduce Pretty Original Thing, the new brand from Wake N Bakery that brings our passion for quality into the world of savory comfort food,” he said “Forest Park felt like the perfect spot,” he said, “and the village has been incredibly supportive as we work through the final approval steps. Once the paperwork is squared away, we’ ll polish up the space and get the ovens humming.”

According to Pretty Original Thing’s Insta gram page, the opening was tentatively scheduled for the second week of May.

Several residents have taken to Reddit with their curiosity about the business. The exterior has changed significantly as the business readies to open. Artists have painted a colorful mural, somewhat reminiscent of graffiti-style art.

TODD BANNOR

Annual Oak Park book sale opens Ju

Friends of Library readies 53rd fair; this year held in the main librar y

By LEAH SCHROEDER Contributing Reporter

The doors of the Oak Park Library, 834 Lake St., burst open and hundreds of community members stream through the door, spreading out across the three floors of the library to find their books of choice

This is how Kathleen Bell, vice president of the Friends of the Oak Park Public Library, describes her favorite moment of the annual Friends of the Oak Park Library book sale: the first day the sale opens to the public.

“That first day energy. … there’s something special for a lot of the volunteers, about opening the doors the first time and seeing the people really kind of flood in and start to look for their finds,” Bell said.

This year, the used book sale will be held for the 53rd time from Friday, July 11 until Sunday, July 13. The sale, Bell said, is one of the largest not just locally, but also in the Midwest and attracts book lovers from all over the Chicagoland area.

“It’s just a great way that we keep getting books into the hands of the Oak Park community and get the right book to the right person at the right time,” Bell said.

With around 50,000 books collected in the month prior to last year’s sale, and “books on every possible topic,” from fiction to nonfiction to children’s books, Bell is certain that everyone who attends the sale will be able to find a book that interests them.

Almost 200 volunteers have been collecting these book donations for the past six weeks and working to sort and organize displays of the books for the sale. This team ranges from people who have been volunteering for years to brand new volunteers, Bell said.

“The thing that all the volunteers share in common, the thing that brings us together, is a love of books,” Bell said. “Whether it’s a new best seller that we’re all gushing over and lining up to read, or a vintage book that just has a beautiful cover and great illustrations, it’s amazing to have this community of people who love books, who love the library.”

Sponsored Content

Happy 10th Birthday, Oak Park Friends School!

As we celebrate our 10th anniversary, we’re reflecting on our growth over the past decade. Oak Park Friends School began in 2007 as a small home daycare, founded by Talley Hann. Soon after, Chloe Cunningham joined her, running a preschool program out of her home. The popularity of the program quickly grew, and in 2015, OPFS moved to its current location—marking the official start of our school as we know it today.

Elizabeth Latterell is a v She grew up going to the sale with her mother, mother and siblings she has always greatly enjoy sale and wished more people in the nity were aware of it

“Books carry knowledge should be accessible to ev said. “I just think it’s important to ha place where people can access stories and information for not as high a price as you would normally have to pay.”

Community members peruse books at last year’s Friends of Library sale

All funds raised through the sale will go towards the library, which Bell said is important “this year, more so than ever, given the cuts to some of the programs that are funded at a larger level.”

Adult books will be sold for $2 for hardcovers, $1 for trade paperbacks and 50 cents for mass market paperbacks. Children’s books will be sold for $1 for hardcovers and 50 cents for paperbacks and boardbooks. DVDs and CDs will be available for purchase for $1 each and games and puzzles will be sold for $2

While we are not a Quaker school, we are deeply inspired by Quaker values of community, kindness, and service. These principles guide everything we do, from how we care for children to how we engage with families.

each. Rare books will be priced individually. On Sunday, books will be free for nonprofits and teachers to “give back to the community,” Bell said.

“Oak Park Library is really an amazing place,” Bell said. “It’s a beautiful physical space, and it has so much more than books. I think they’ve really built the spirit of community, and a spirit of community that is reaching out into the Oak Park community as well.”

10 Reasons We Love Oak Park Friends School

1. Play-Based Curriculum –Research shows kids learn best through play—and we live that truth every day.

2. Loose Parts Play – Openended materials spark creativity and imagination.

7. Risky Play Encouraged –Climbing, jumping, swinging— kids need movement and challenge to grow.

We’re proud not only to have weathered the challenges of the pandemic, but to have expanded during that time— doubling our space and the number of students we serve. Today, we’re honored to nurture and educate more than 250 children each year through our full-day care, part-day preschool, and afterschool programs.

We look forward to continuing to serve the greater Oak Park community for the next 10 years and beyond!

3. Thatcher Trips � We regularly hike and explore the beauty of Thatcher Woods.

4. Outdoor Play in All Weather – Rain, snow, or shine—outdoor play is always on the agenda!

5. Exceptional Teachers & Staff – Dedicated, nurturing, and truly the heart of our school.

8. Engaging After-School Program – Big kids have big fun too, with thoughtful and active programming.

9. Flexible Scheduling – We offer options to meet the diverse needs of busy families.

10. Chickens! � We’re raising baby chicks in our courtyard coop!

Oak Park Friends School

6300 Roosevelt Rd, Oak Park, IL 60304 • 708-686-2030 • opfs.org

6. Supportive Parent Community � Our families help make OPFS a strong, connected community.

COURTESY OF KATHLEEN BELL

Language & Music School celebrates 30 years in Oak Park

The sound of music will continue at the Burton Hales Mansion

By SUSAN MONTGOMERY Contributing Reporter

The beautiful Burton Hales Mansion at Chicago and Oak Park Avenues has changed owners several times in the past 30 years, but the current owners say they are here to stay.

The mansion houses The Language & Music School, owned by Maria Emilia Fermi and her son, Brando Crawford.

The school is celebrating its 30th anniversary, the first 24 years in a storefront on Oak Park Avenue and the last six years in the Burton Hales Mansion. During this time, the mansion has been renovated to add a second staircase to meet village code re gulations for a school. But apar t from that, the owners have honored the building’s magnificent Tudor Revival architecture with Arts and Crafts features, leaving

Purchasing the mansion and expanding their programming took a leap of faith, according to Fermi. (She is a relative of famed scientist Enrico Fermi, for whom FermiLab in west suburban Batavia is named.)

She and her son purchased it in 2019, months before the COVID 19 pandemic began. During the pandemic, they pivoted to offer music lessons, world language instruction and academic tutoring online. They continue to offer online learning as an option, in addition to lessons taught on site.

When you enter, the sound of music – piano, violin, guitar and other instruments –flows throughout the building.

On the first floor, the living room, dining room and for mer billiards room each serve as classroom space. The living room is also set up as a recital hall that can seat about 50 people. The expansive third floor accommodates about nine individual music studios for students to work one on one with their instructors. The school teaches children and adults, including one adult student who first enrolled at the school 30 years ago. Some for mer music students who have now started their own families have returned to

Crawford says that wherever his mother goes in the village, she invariably meets up with current and for mer students, parents and other longtime friends, who are attracted to her warm and engaging personality

In addition to music lessons, the school teaches languages of the world and provides a “home school in school style program” for students from kindergarten through grade 12. Mensa, the international society for individuals with high IQs, has recommended the program to gifted students, and some Mensa members have enrolled. The academic curriculum began years ago when Emilia hired tutors to work with her own son, while he performed in a production for Broadway in Chicago.

Describing the day school students, Fermi said that all are very talented, but don’t necessarily excel in a traditional, structured classroom environment. Here, each student works with tutors who are warm and engaging and who customize the curriculum according to each student’s needs, allowing each student to excel at their own rate.

A native of Argentina, Fermi attended the renowned Conservatorio de Musica Julian Aguirre and came to Oak Park to learn English. She enrolled in the English as a Second Language (ESL) program at Concordia University, in River Forest, and lived with a local host family in Oak Park

That first Christmas, she was invited to a holiday party at the home of another Oak Park family. Upon entering the home, she

saw a piano and immediately sat down and began to play. Although she felt her English language skills were still weak, her music immediately connected her with the family hosting the party. Not long after, they invited her to give piano lessons to their children. Soon she was teaching music to their children’s friends at the family’s home. The bilingual experience enlivened her spirits and created the spark that led to the school today Early on during her stay in Oak Park, Fermi joined the Steckman School of Music (now closed) in Oak Park and became well acquainted with the owner. Although she did return to Argentina for a time, she later returned to Oak Park to stay. She reconnected with. Steckman and infor med him she wanted to open a language and music school in Oak Park. He encouraged her to make the transition. She knew many fellow students at the ELS program at Concordia and reached out to them to teach languages of the world at her school. She also brought in many local musicians whom she knew to teach as well. Both mother and son are passionate about their work and strongly feel that Oak Park, with its rich cultural diversity, is the perfect place for their school to grow

“I love what I am doing,” said Fermi. “Our vision for the future is about continuing to provide all students a space in which to develop their full potential.”

Learn more about the school at www.lmschool.com.

TODD BANNOR

e Burton Hales Mansion houses e Language & Music School

TODD BANNOR

Maria Emilia Fermi and her son, Brando Crawford, owners of e Language & Music School

Man shatters Oak Park grocery store’s window with headbutt

A man wearing a helmet broke glass in a t rage, according to police

By BRENDAN HEFFERNAN Staff Reporter

A man wearing a helmet headbutted his way through an Oak Park grocery store’s plate glass window in a fit of rage last week, according to Oak Park police

Shor tly before 11:30 p.m. June 14, a man wearing a helmet struck his head against the 5- by 7-foot plate glass window of a grocery store in the 400 block of Madison Street, according to police The man then fled west bound on Madison Street while riding a black moped, according to police.

The incident caused an estimated $2,500 in damage, according to police

Car theft

Police are investigating an incident in which a man re por tedly rented a car from an Oak Park vehicle rental service and never retur ned it, according to police.

The man re por tedly rented the 2024 Honda Acord from a business in the 100 block of Chicago Avenue on May 30, with the vehicle contracted to be retur ned by June 2. The car was re por ted stolen June 17, according to the police.

The vehicle has an estimated value of $30,000, according to police.

OAK PARK MOVING SALE

Domestic batter y arrest

rested an Oak Park man on domestic battery charges the mor ning of une 17, according to police. rested the 49-year-old man in the 100 block of Nor th Kenilwor th Avenue in connection with an alle ged attack that une 6 at the same location, according to police

The man was processed and held for his bond hearing, according to police

Tool theft

Oak Pa rk p olice are investi ga ting several incidents of tool theft that we re repor ted last week.

S hor tly before 1:50 p. m. on T hursd ay, June 19 someone stole a c hainsaw and wet saw from a B ristol, IL r esident wh o was wo rk ing in the 200 b lock of Harlem Avenue. T he tools are v alued at an esti -

mated $4,000, according to police.

On the mor ning on We d nesd ay June 18, someone stole two nailer s, two saws, two drills and a set of tool batteries from a Berwyn r esident’s v an wh i le it was pa rked in the 600 b lock of Wesely Avenue, a ccording to p olice T he tools ar e v alued at an estimated $1,790, a ccordin g to police.

These items we re o btained from Oak Pa rk ’s Po lice De partment re ports date d Ju ne 14–23 and re present a portion of th e incidents to wh ich police responded. Anyone named in these re ports has only been charged with a crime and cases ha ve not yet b een adjudicated. We re port the ra ce of a suspect only wh en a serious crim e has been c ommitted, the suspect is still at la rg e, and police ha ve provided us with a detailed a description of the suspect as th ey seek the public’s h elp in making an ar re st .

PROPER TY TR ANSFERS

River Forest home sells for $2M

RIVER FOREST

FOREST P ARK

Cap Llc

FAIR HOUSING

requirements from page 13

lage’s new DEI Chief. The work on the residential rental licensing code is meant to go hand-in-hand with planned updates to the village’s wide-reaching Human Rights Ordinance, an early priority for Keyes, according to Village Manager Kevin Jackson.

“The fair housing testing will be iterative and I think what we want to do as quickly as we can is follow up from the last set of recommendations to try to get some updates to the ordinance so we can get moving on what we found last time,” Jackson said. “We will be coming back with the human rights ordinances as we bring on the DEI staff to look at that as well, doing that in partnership with neighborhood services. I think what we have here was kind of a milestone point where we got some specific recommendations to enhance our ordinance provisions, so we wanted to get those back in front of you guys and get feedba ck and try to get those adopted and keep moving.”

One of the main recommendations to come out of HOPE’s report last fall was making revisions to village policy about who within property management companies are required to undergo training on tenant rights from the village, extending it past organizational leaders, Burch said.

“The HOPE recommendation is that everybody should receive training because the people who would be violating fair housing laws might not just be the owner or the agent; it might be the leasing person, it might be the janitor you run into in the building,” he said. “A variety of folks operate on behalf of the owner or agent who are directly interacting with tenants or potential tenants. They also

need to be versed in fair housing laws.”

The recommended ordinance would require all new hires at Oak Park property management companies to receive training on fair housing laws.

Part of HOPE’s work in the future will include ensuring that training session materials are up to date and relevant to Oak Park, he said.

“The intention is that HOPE is providing us a re port every six months, so we are always changing the testing and the training that we are doing to be in response to the issues we are identifying locally,” Burch said.

In feedback sessions, housing providers also asked for more robust training from the village, Burch said. The proposed ordinances would put a greater emphasis on in-person training sessions.

“We asked for feedback from a current housing provider of what they thought the effectiveness of the training we provided in the past,” Burch said. “They have not been especially high grade really since COVID.

“The intention is to move to a much more small-group eng agement set of trainings where we can talk about what are the issues specifically being identified through Hope’s testing and talking through scenarios with providers so they are aware of how to be able to handle that in the future and address those challenges.”

Planek said Oak Park is historically a lot more proactive than most neighboring communities when it comes to training initiatives, so this step is not surprising in light of the issues the HOPE study uncovered.

“In the face of that, I think they said let’s change this up a bit and make sure that the message gets out,” he said.

The recommended ordinances will come back before the board for a first reading before they are voted on by the board.

NEED TO REACH US?

email: dhaley@wjinc.com

Home design duo debuts wallpaper and vanity designs

Nor th & Madison adds new wrinkle to bathroom update

By LACEY SIKORA Real Estate Reporter

Robin Flaherty and Jess Milburn are the pair behind the local firm North & Madison. they founded that company in 2017, Milburn were both raising their Park and River Forest and after wo homes, decided to share their talents through ing homes for others.

The duo cut their teeth on the area’s historic housing stock, adding color and texture to make the vintage structures live well tion. Before too long, they we dos, homes and the occasional commercial project, and their work took them throughout the area and to other states.

This spring, they took their design other direction and launched a new line of semicustom bathroom vanities. They created four designer styles that come in multiple vibrant palette of colors and two choices counter tops.

“We started this because we Flaherty says. “There really is no solution to bathroom vanities. There’s a huge cost, custom-designed vanities and a big box store vanity made of MDF (fibreboard).”

She goes on to say that one of ents want them to remodel in their older homes ar the bathrooms. Milburn chimes bathrooms!”

Their color palette includes b two favor in their designs, which they thought was missing from the marketplace.

See NORTH & MADISON on pa ge 21

TWO WOMEN AND A VANIT Y: Robin Flaher ty and Jess Milburn have added new products to their design work

NORTH & MADISON

Not quite custom

from page 20

are also available for those who might be a bit color-averse.

The entire process has been percolating for quite some time. Flaherty notes that they began thinking about creating a line of vanities almost seven years ago. Then in the past three years, they began actively meeting with manufacturers from around the world. They found a partner close to home in a Bensenville-based cabinet maker Milburn says, “It ended up making sense to work with our cabinet company that we’d worked with for years on kitchen cabinets. They are great quality.”

Flaherty and Milburn sketched their concepts, turned them into CAD (computer aided design) drawings and then had those drawings translated into shop drawings. They hammered out the details, and then had their manufacturer create samples.

North & Madison currently has several sample cabinets available to peruse on their website www.northandmadisonhome.com , and Flaherty and Milburn note that they’ve already been using the vanities with clients.

“We try to put a special vanity in each project,” says Milburn. There’s more to their new creative ven-

ture than vanities. North & Madison collaborated with artist and print designer Melissa Johnson to create a line of wallpapers in colors that perfectly match the vanity colors.

Milburn says, “The idea was to have the whole design experience available -- sort of a choose your own adventure.”

Flaherty says having vanities that coordinate with wallpapers allows consumers to create “amazing Pinterest bathrooms” all on their own.

Several years ago, when North & Madison was busy with full-service design clients, they launched a Design Concepts service, in which they helped clients choose their designs, and clients executed those designs on their own. Milburn says the vanity and wallpaper pairing breaks this process down even further, letting clients use tried and true combinations to elevate their homes.

The process is relatively quick for a custom design solution. Lead time is four to six weeks, with rush orders available, for vanities. Wallpapers can be ready in about two weeks. There is free vanity delivery in the Oak Park and River Forest area, and customers can order everything, including cabinet color samples, online.

Client feedback has been great according to Milburn and Flaherty. “It’s the manufacturer we’ve been using for years and that we use in our personal house and in clients’ houses. It’s tried and true, and great quality,” says Flaherty.

All our public art topic of Preservation event

Preservation Oak Park is hosting its next 360 Oak Park event on June 25 at One Lake Brewing Company on Lake Street at Austin Blvd. in Oak Park. This summer’s theme is “Art Around Us.”

Like previous 360 Oak Park events, presenters will be given 360 seconds to share their expertise on a topic. The speakers for the June event include:

1. Andrzej Dajnowski, speaking on Conservation Studio

2. Carolyn Elaine and Hasani Cannon, speaking on Mosaics and the Of f the Wall Prog ram

3. Bryan Northup, covering the hidden gem that is the Oak Park Art League

4. David Patterson, giving a personal testament to the impact of the arts in Oak Park

5. Laura Shaeffler, discussing local

gallery and artist space Compound Yellow

6. David Sokol, speaking on Oak Park sculptor Geraldine McCullough

7. Laura Thompson, covering the Motif Rhythm Theory, George Washington Maher and the Arts & Crafts movement

8. Camille Wilson-White, discussing the CTA’s Mural Prog ram

Doors open for the event at 6:30 and the presentations begin at 7:30. While the event is free, tickets are required, and registration is available at: https://ow.ly/vOQ050WcWmQ

PHOTO S COURTESY OF NORTH & MADISON

MIX AND MATCH: Wallpaper and vanity combos from North & Madison

If your child comes out as transgender

One OPRF student’s advice on talking about coming out and how to hear the responses

By TEDDY N.

(Editor’s note: This essay was written by a rising junior at Oak Park and River Forest High School.)

Introduction

Every once and a while, I will get asked about how I came out as trans. Or why. Or what it’s “like.”

I’m not the best at describing this experience, but one analogy I’ve heard (that I think is pretty solid) is to imagine one day you wake up, and when you put on your shoes, you realize they are on the wrong feet. Every attempt to fix them fails. Maybe throw a rock in them for good measure. And all of a sudden, you are left to deal with this perpetual feeling of wrongness. With every step, you are reminded of this situation you’re in, and you think everyone can notice how you walk funny. Somedays, you can get used to it.

Your friends tell you they don’t even notice the mix-up. But then there are those other days, when all you can think about is those freaking Converses (Conversi?). All you want is to rip them off, because anything would be better than another step in those Doc Martens (I’m realizing how few shoe brands I know). And to make matters worse, many in society view the procedure to fix the shoes as something abhor rent. There are those attempting to ensure it is illegal to fix your shoes.

I can only imagine how you are feeling right now. But with all my heart, I thank you for taking this step. If anything, I hope these suggestions can provide a broad idea of your first thoughts if your child comes out to you, to help them feel safe and loved.

Suggestion #1

Your child is not dead, so do not mourn. I understand the feelings overflowing when such an event happens. When I came out to my mother, just the two of us present, there was a pause. Potent and fragile. At that moment, all I wanted was to weep, because the last thing I ever wished to do was cause her pain. Gently, I remember her looking up and asking:

“Do you not like being a girl?” In retrospect, the answer is pretty clear

now. But even then, while I was still reeling in my decision, I understood her meaning. Did she fail as a mother? Did she teach me to be ashamed of womanhood, to think of femininity as something to avoid?

No. I wasn’t able to find that simple word. But by presenting and pretending to be something I wasn’t, I only solidified my understanding: the life I knew was built of glass.

I am so grateful to have been gifted with the most incredible mother I could ever ask for, who’s compassion has guided me through this tumultuous experience more times than I can count. But I know others have not been so lucky. Time and time again I have heard stories from other queer youth, whose parents’ tears did not stop, who they would see clutching to baby photos or reminiscing on songs they played when their children were young. At that moment, all these kids wanted was to turn back time, hide in a closet and have everything go back to the way it was

But they knew that wasn’t possible. Grieving won’t bring your child back, because they never left.

I have been to a few funerals in my life. Loss can be a feeling that never truly goes away. Maybe you spent years planning a name, a future, and it all feels like it is slipping away

to consider -- as they are a major dispute regarding youth -- they are, simply put, not something to worry about right now. Because if your child tells you at dinner they are actually male, they are not coming home the next day with top surgery, a beard, and the heavenly voice of a prepubescent boy, cracks and all. Because being transgender does not equate to having surgery

And yet, it is often one of the only factors considered when a youth discusses aspirations for transitioning

What your child is actually asking for might be so much smaller than you imagined

Transitioning, a majority of the time, is social. It can be choosing a new name, using new pronouns. I hate to use the term “boy and girl clothes”, but maybe your child would like outfits associated with their newfound gender identity. Maybe they just want a haircut. I cannot encourage you enough to let them.

“Their smile, their jokes, the way they hug you? That will not change.”

TEDDY N.

But please understand, your child is the same one that loved dinosaurs when they were five, or who came to you in the middle of the night because of a monster under their bed. They are now simply telling you something bigger than their favorite extracurricular, or where they want to go to college. Their smile, their jokes, the way they hug you? That will not change.

They are asking you to hold their hand as they cross a new road, and to instead act as if you are viewing their eulogy is a stab in the heart. The baby you raised is still here, and you are meeting them more than ever before

Suggestion #2

Your child is not going to undergo a sex change operation overnight. In the mainstream media, I recognize fear mongering on this topic is widespread, with even the current president implying you can have a gender-affirming surgery at school. While the medical procedures commonly linked to a transgender identity are viable

Even if it doesn’t make sense right away, to look in the mirror and finally recognize your reflection? To know your parents and friends see you for who you are? It is as if you finally found a missing puzzle piece, and the picture is finally whole

And yes, more likely than not they will eventually want to discuss more impactful options, and when they do, I implore you to listen to them. But that takes time. Doctors. Consultations.

Right now, they don’t need a medical evaluation. They need you.

Being transgender is not just about your body or future procedures. Even if you think you’re considering their wellbeing, to only focus on hypothetical medical risks is to completely ignore what they are telling you, and what they’re asking for right now. So be here in the present with them.

Suggestion #3

Know your child is scared.

It was one of the most monumental decisions I ever made, and I know the same is true for others I’ve talked to. However much you imagine your perfect coming out, and whatever media tells you about how rewarding it is, you never know what the reaction will be

Even if all they said was one sentence, understand how much bravery it takes. Behind “I think I’m a girl” is months of self-reflection as they determine who they are. Behind “I’m actually a boy” is time spent stressing about whether it was worth it to tell you.

Behind “I’m trans” is the decision that the potential consequences are insignificant to the opportunity to accept their intrapersonal identity

So recognize that. Be proud -- you have raised a child brave enough to value themselves even when the outcome may appear dire.

But also acknowledge this decision comes with fear, because they don’t know if you will still love them.

They’ve seen the news. They know there are those in power trying to erase their existence and diminish their identity as nothing but mental illness. And they know some of their classmates echo this sentiment. There is a chance to be public about who they are, classmates would isolate them, family members might harass them, all alongside an imbued understanding current politicians would prefer if they didn’t exist.

Try to imagine if when you turned on the TV there was an elected official arguing healthcare that could save your life should be prohibited. That your existence should be criminalized (though unfortunately, this reality applies to more than just those in the LGBTQ+ community).

Your child fears you agree with these sentiments. So make it abundantly clear you do not. Do not ignore what is circulating in the media but ensure this fear does not define them. Treat them as they are: not as your transgender kid, but your son or daughter who happened to be born in the wrong body They are not trying to confuse or har m you. They just need to know that they are still yours. That you will support them even when the world does not. That you will hold their hand

Queer youth founded safe summer space with OPALGA+ support

Local LGBTQ+ students and allies join the organization in the Youth Council’s

rst summer

By ELIZABETH SHORT Contributing Reporter

School pride clubs can provide an important safe space for LGBTQ+ youth. Queer students can find support and inclusion in these communities, which they might not find at home or elsewhere. These groups can also offer opportunities for LGBTQ+ youth and allies to org anize, become involved in activism, and connect with the larger queer community. During the summer months, however, many of these groups become inactive and some queer

students are left without crucial support systems.

In April, colle ge students Emma Costello-Wollwage and the LGBTQ+ Youth Council of County to tackle exactly this issue. The Oak Park Area

L esbia n and Gay Association + (OPALGA+), which has a dvo cated for LGBTQ+ equality and acceptance in the Chicago area since 1989, sponsors the gr Kennedy are both previous the OPALGA+ Scholarshi dents in reco gnition of their a partnering with a Youth Council will

ing LGBTQ+ advocacy projects and groups while approaching these issues from a specifically youth-oriented perspective.

ich already has es to provide local LGBTQ+ youth with vital support systems during these summer months.

The group hopes to create a more sustainabl e and consistent commu-

LGBTQ+ students, who might also struggle with losing a familiar safe space ile transitioning between schools.

“Through the OPALGA+ Youth Council, a lasting space where LGBTQ+ youth feel supported, heard, and emto lead,” said Kennedy. “Our goal

is to create opportunities that reflect our community’s needs, encourages meaningful connection, and gives young people the tools to get involved — whether through service, advocacy, or simply showing up for one another.”

These groups become especially important during times of political uncertainty. As the federal government strips programs providing critical support to queer youth — the federal government announced it will be ending the national suicide hotline’s specialized support for LGBTQ+ youth starting next month — local organizations and communities can step in and provide a safety net.

The Youth Council “can be the time where queer students can re gain strength, hope, and feel a sense of community in the midst of a world that doesn’t always ensure LGBTQ+ safety and equality,” said Costello-Wollwage

Celebrating 30 years at this location

EMMA COSTELLO-WOLLWAGE (she/her)

RF proves inclusive nature as 500 join 4th annual Pride Walk

‘Live authentically and be celebrated’

By LEAH SCHROEDER Contributing Reporter

For River Forest Village Trustee Erika Bachner, the months of planning that preceded the fourth annual River Forest Pride Walk were all worth it when she was approached by a young volunteer who shared that this was their first ever Pride event and the amount of support that they felt moved them to tears.

The Pride Walk, held June 2, was attended by over 500 community members and several community organizations, in-

cluding the River Forest Library and several religious groups. The event involved the raising of the rainbow Pride a walking parade beginning at Vi and ending at Keystone Park.

“Every year when we raise tha always emotional for me, and I think lot of people,” Bachner said. “It shows that River Forest is a place where people can live authentically and be celebrated who they are.”

Bachner said the event had an energetic and joyful atmosphere, with attendees waving Pride flags and enjoying Kona Ice from a nearby snow cone truck. But she also ognized the undeniable event saying that it wasn tion,” it was a “time

and supported in the area.”

Megan Keskitalo, newly elected as a River Forest village trustee, has participated in the planning process for the event each year since it began. Each year, more and more community members come to the walk, Keskitalo said.

“It tends to be a highlight of my year, because I feel like there’s so much acceptance and love and excitement in the community for the event and for the sense that everyone belongs and everyone has a place

here,” Keskitalo said.

As an openly LGBTQIA+ elected official, Bachner reflected on her own experience growing up and said that has shaped the way that she leads initiatives in the community.

“We know the importance of being seen,” Bachner said. “When I was a kid, I didn’t really have that in the same way. … To be able to see kids in the streets with the pride colors and feeling confident and strong and feeling like they can be an ally to somebody, all of that is just really, really important to instill.”

Keskitalo echoed this sentiment, saying she f eels “honored” and “grateful” to be pa rt of a “community that treasures our differences so much.” Going forward, Keskitalo said she hopes to include more c ommunity organizations in the P ride Walk and broaden outreach prior to the event.

“I feel deeply grateful to live among the people of River Forest and to live in a community where everyone is welcomed, accepted and celebrated,” Keskitalo said. “It’s especially important to see families and children at these events and to see how we’re teaching the next generation that love is stronger than hate, and that everyone deserves to be appreciated and

PROVIDED

PROVIDED

ends, Bachner said. The ef for ts are ongoing and year-round.

Bachner confirmed the Pride Walk will be held again next year. Year after year, Bachner said River Forest receives feedback from community members about how

Bachner said. “Seeing the hundreds of families, seeing the openly LGBTQIA+ elected officials in River Forest and then all the neighbors and allies, it’s a pretty clear message that everyone belongs here in our community.”

VIEWPOINTS

We don’t deserve bike lanes

Ilove biking. I’m not a hardcore cyclist with a four-figure bike, but I do enjoy the challenge of an annual century ride. As a for mer marathoner (eh, one and done!), biking has become my favorite way to unplug from screens and reconnect with friends. When I retire, I long to join that crew of 60-something cyclists who hang out at Fairg rounds on weekday mor nings, sipping coffee and flipping through the New York Times — the print edition, of course.

As for the current debate over the local bike plan — let’s be honest, even if it passes, we’re probably 2-3 years away from seeing full implementation. I’ve read and listened to both sides of the recent bike plan debate, channeling the late, great Judge Wapner from The People’s Court. After weighing the don’t deserve bike lanes

Hold your applause, anti-bike plan folks — here

hanks to the speed and convenience of same-day ry residential street now feels like a ommercial thoroughfare. Cars, trucks, and newly licensed teens fly down our streets, treating stop suggestions than rules. There’s no oubt our neighborhood roads are less safe and more congested than they were a decade ago. kering over bike lanes, what if we gy on something more foundational requiring helmets for anyone under 18? Evanston passed such an ordinance in 2012. Somehow, become “cool” for kids to ride with their helmets angling from their handlebars, technically following the “bring your helmet” rule, but missing the we’ve got kids riding no-hands, while biking.

By the time kids hit high school, they’ve been war ned about the dangers and driving under the influence. It’s time biking safety joined that list. Wearing a helmet can reduce the risk of serious head injury by up to 85% — yet only about 15% of teens consistently wear one. Here’s a simple proposal for an Oak Park Bike Safety Ordinance:

■ Under 18: Must wear a helmet while biking

■ First offense: Warning and a mandatory bike safety course

■ Second offense: $100 fine or 100 burpees — your choice

Parents, we also have to do our part. It’s not enough to leave helmet safety to others. I like to believe that if we found out our newly licensed teen was driving the family minivan without a seatbelt, there would be swift consequences — probably the loss of driving privileges. I’d argue that we should treat the helmet dangling from the handlebars with the same urgency as a missing seatbelt.

Obviously, an ordinance won’t fix everything. But it will shine a spotlight on the risks of riding without a helmet. We shouldn’t have to wait for a tragic accident and a candlelight vigil in Scoville Park to act on something so simple and sensible.

The bike lane debate is a distraction. Let’s start by making sure our kids wear their helmets. Then we can say we deserve bike lanes.

Vince Gay has 20+ years in education, classroom teacher to administrator. The proud parent of two school-age children is an active member of the Oak Park community.

e tattoo-spiderwort intersection

Last fall, at the age of 43, was diagnosed with breast cancer. No family histor no genetic markers. I ended up being the luckiest of the unlucky — my lump was small and not growing, and after my lumpectomy, it was deter mined could forgo radiation and chemo in favor of regular MRIs. It almost felt unfair to be so lucky

As a woman of a certain ag a decade of having children and navigating unexpected health challenges drives home how little control you ha body. When I walked out of Prentice Women with a clean bill of health, I decided that, for once, I was goin to make a choice that I had complete control ov I was going to ge my first tattoo.

CHAVAS

and other pollinators. And the more se the ecosystem, the more resilent and generous it becomes

What better metaphor for the kind community I want to be a part of here in Oak Park?

As a relatively new native gardener, ned my job is not to contain or onstrain my plants. I’ve had to accept ves can sometimes be wild and unpredictable, like our lives — or our children. Once established, they don’t need much watering, but that doesn’t mean they don’t need attention. When a plant struggles, I’ll see if

I’d never been opposed to a tattoo, but I’d also never had an image I felt compelled to make permanent. (Like how I once said I wasn’t opposed to li in Oak Park but could imagine life outside the city — and yet, here haul.)

Middle age changes your perspective in unexpected ways. And in that moment, this middleaged suburban mom knew exactly what tattoo I wanted: my favorite native plant, the Common Spiderwort.

In an urban environment, native plants are the ultimate community builders. There is a native plant for every type of soil, no matter how rich or degraded, and every light condition, from full sun to full shade. Find them the right home, and they thrive. From there, they build deep roots that help them withstand drought and soak up water during heavy rains. They offer food and shelter to butterflies, bees,

blossom lasts just one day, opening in the mor ning and folding up by evening, short-lived but unmistakable. Yet the plant produces enough buds to flower for weeks, bringing new surprises every mor ning.

I got my tattoo on May 23. My tattoo artist remarked on my ability to sit calmly through 3.5 hours of what had been described to me as “cat scratching on sunburn” (accurate). I told her it was nothing compared to childbirth.

Later that week, the spiderwort in my front yard bloomed for the first time

Nicole Chavas runs a sustainable planning and design firm in Oak Park. Her kids run everything else.

ADOBE STOCK

OUR VIEWS

What my 83-year-old says Rush’s smart expansion

It is very good news that Rush University Medical Center continues to invest in its satellite Rush Oak Park Hospital. Even better that the latest major expansion of the Rush Oak Park footprint is not actually in Oak Park. Instead, Rush is putting the finishing touches on a from-theground-up, 60,000-square-foot outpatient center at the cor ner of North and Harlem in Chicago’s Galewood neighborhood.

That space will include examination rooms, consultation and procedure spaces and an urgent care facility. Dr. Dino Rumoro, president of Rush Oak Park, says it will also bring a raft of up-to-date medical technology to these communities. And it will have a 200-car surface parking lot.

This investment is aimed at continuing to grow the Rush Oak Park share of medical services provided locally while taking the pressure for physical expansion off of its landlocked campus at Madison and Harlem.

That campus abuts residential neighborhoods on its east and south sides. Tensions between those neighbors and previous hospital administrators have been intense over decades. The village gover nment worked to intervene but mostly gave in to Rush’s plans to incrementally grow its footprint.

Neighbors in Oak Park remain wary with a focus now on getting the village to sign off on height restrictions on the existing campus. That is a project that all sides should work to complete

Meanwhile, in what we hope is Rush Oak Park’s final land acquisition adjacent to its campus, we cheer its purchase of the longtime currency exchange right on the corner of Madison and Harlem. That site has long been coveted by Rush as a way to open a vista to its campus from both busy streets.

Re ning housing regulations

Some issues with broad and critical impact need to be sorted out in the weeds. That is the case with Oak Park’s pending changes to its residential property licensing code. The changes focus on how owners and managers of multifamily housing must prepare to interact with tenants and potential tenants with subsidized housing vouchers, and clarifies the process for how negligent property managers’ licenses can be suspended or revoked.

Rightly, the village is looking out for the rights of tenants – a huge percentage of our neighbors – especially after an independent investigation uncovered discrimination against low-income renters by several providers. But the village must also work to consider the complications of running apartment houses in a well-regulated world.

It appears that the recommendations coming from the village’s Neighborhood Services Department are threading that needle. The focus of the proposed changes is to improve mandatory village training for both building owners and their staff members. The village says it has been consulting with local building owners and housing providers, such as Housing Forward, and with its hired consultant Hope Fair Housing.

All agree that village training has fallen of f track since COVID. Going forward the training will reach deeper into each organization’s staff, will be in person, and will involve smaller groups at a time

These are welcome changes

Last week a friend, who enjoys nudging me (thank goodness), asked, “What would your 83-yearold self say to your 73-year-old self ?” As happens every time someone asks a question like that, my mind went blank.

The following day (standard percolation time), my 10-year plan heaved into view, as I imagined my 83-year-old self saying, “You’ve got 10 years. It’s a gift. What are you going to do with it?”

At my age, 10 years is all I can reasonably gift myself. And it isn’t guaranteed. But for the sake of this thought exercise, let’ say I get my full 10 years. What will I do with that gift? Writ spend time with my grandkids, write, watch my money bu spend some of it on cultural enrichment, write, spend some more on occasional travel (preferably with grandkids), write, love those whose destiny is intertwined with mine, write.

KEN TRAINOR

one 10-year plan at the age of 73. You have to make two. The first is if you stay healthy. The second is if you’re physically ill or impaired. How can I make life meaningful and even enjoyable if I’m limited or in decline?

Between 73 and 83, how many funerals will I attend, how many dear friends and family will I lose? Will I be a fuller human being despite the suffering I may have to endure — or maybe because I suffer? Will I become kinder, more understanding, more patient, wiser?

The 83-year-old on my shoulder says, “If there’s anything you need to accomplish, now is the time Everything you’ve lived for, lived through, and evolved into will culminate in the next 10 years. Don’t dawdle. Procrastination at your age is deadly. Don’t wait for the future. Be the future.”

Well, he would know, wouldn’t he?

“What will you regret if you don’t do it now?” he says. “Identify what’s most important to you and spend enough time to do each justice. Loved ones, activism, maintaining friendships? What will you regret if you shortchange something or someone? It’s not just about you and your immediate circle. There is also your country and your planet. Your destiny is intertwined with everyone. This 10 years will be unlike any decade before. The world will be a very different place in 10 years. Take my word for it. What will you contribute to the good? What can you do — because your doing will diminish. You’ve imagined this since you were 10 years old. Imagine you have 10 years left. Make it happen.”

In what shape will the world be 10 years from now? What mayhem will climate change wreak? Will democracy exist in name only, as it always has? What shape will I be in? You can’t make just

I have a short bucket list: visit some national parks, see my grandsons graduate from high school and college (and hand each a collection of the columns I’ve been writing about them since they were bor n), leave behind a couple of other manuscripts that may or may not ever see the light of publication. I pray that my list of satisfactions exceeds my list of regrets, that the account in my memory bank earns more interest than my monetary accounts, that my wealth is calculated based on how well and deeply I have loved, and that I keep writing till I drop. I would be pleased if they found me face down on the keyboard, or if the pen pried from my cold dead hand leaves a line of ink trailing off the written page, preferably not in the middle of my greatest thought.

My 83-year-old keeps reminding me:

“You’re in time compression now. The urgency of now becomes even more fierce as you approach 83.”

I want my 83-year-old self to say, not that I did “my best,” but that I did “my most,” the most I could. And if I come up short, as I surely will, it’s not for lack of trying but because I set my bar just a little too high.

I want to hear him say, “No excuses, no regrets, you tried.” But what I hear him say is, “Keep going. Don’t stop. It’s worth the effort. And keep writing, no matter what. You’ll be glad you did.”

And then, if I’m really blessed, my 83-year-old self will turn and start up that long incline toward my 93-year-old self

I wonder what he might have to say.

We need empathic, responsible leaders

Thank you, Ken Trainor, for “Unchecked, unbalanced, un-supreme” [Viewpoints, June 18]. Your well-researched overview of the history of the Supreme Court and the shifts you describe toward the court becoming more gover ned by ideology and partisanship are thought-provoking for me. If I understand it correctly, this third branch of our gover nment was designed to be above politics, a group of erudite jurists with deep knowledge of the Constitution and the law, the least corruptible branch. Now we see that it has become dominated by the conservative majority with mostly 5-4 or 6-3 decisions, depending on whether Justice Barrett joins the other three women to rule on the liberal side.

I think back to 2000 when Al Gore conceded the election to George W. Bush despite winning the popular vote by more than half a million votes Not only did Gore have years of experience in the Senate and House of Representatives, plus eight years as vice president, but he had dedicated himself to a study of the environment and had knowledge of climate change, which the country so needs. Instead, Bush’s presidency, which I think of as the Cheney-Rumsfeld presidency, gave us the misguided and enormously costly war in Iraq. The election came down to that one-vote majority by the Supreme Court, stopping the recount of votes in Florida. What a difference that one vote made.

Even more grievous was the 2016 election that

put Donald Trump in the White House despite the fact that Secretary of State Hillary Clinton won the popular vote by three million votes. This time it was the Electoral College that made the decision. The difference between what might have been with Clinton’s leadership and the reality of what has been with Trump’s administration is impossible to calculate

It has changed the nature of our country by ripping apart gover nment institutions built over decades to serve our needs and regulate our economic system. As dedicated civil servants are casually dismissed, our gover nment is drained of institutional knowledge and human capital.

The campaign to deport immigrants strikes me as the epitome of injustice We are living now with fear and fragmentation, a contest between democracy and autocracy

Most troubling to me is the marriage of wealth and power, and concentration of both in the hands of a small number of people, predominantly men, who are empowered to make decisions that impact the lives of millions of others. This is not a new thing in human history. The scale of it must be greater than ever now, if only because of the scale of the human population.

Nothing is more important than finding mature, knowledgeable, empathic, responsible leadership to head our gover nment and communities.

Stephanie Ferrera Oak Park

End the use of Flock cameras

As a reproductive rights advocate and civil rights attorney, I urge the village to end the use of Flock cameras in our community.

In the last 30 days, Oak Park’s Flock automatic license plate readers detected over 400,000 vehicles, saving most of this information in a database. In this country’s current climate, the collection of so much data about people who may be moving through Oak Park to access, help people access, or provide reproductive health care puts all of those people at risk.

It was recently reported that a Texas sheriff hunted through Mount Prospect’s license-plate data to dig for evidence about a woman who had an abortion. Pregnancy criminalization is undeniably on the rise. Just last week, a Pennsylvania mother and her teen daughter were arrested in connection with her daughter’s abortion. And a Texas man tried to sue his wife’s friends for helping her end an unwanted pregnancy so she could leave her abusive partner.

It is true that we have state laws that should

guard against the use of the Flock data to interfere with protected health care. But as the Mount Prospect example shows, such protections are not foolproof. And once this data has been released, it is difficult if not impossible to undo the harm. The best protection against misuse of this information is not collecting it in the first place.

More people who are forced to travel for abortion care come to Illinois than any other state. Of course, members of our own community also rely on access not just to abortion care, but also a range of reproductive health care that is under attack, such as contraception and fertility care

Our village has affir med the fundamental right under Illinois law for us to make our own decisions about our reproductive health. Ending the Flock contract would allow the exercise of these rights in our community, free from unwarranted gover nment surveillance.

Ameri Klafeta Oak Park

e bene ts of bike lanes

The Oak Park Village Board meeting on June 3 included an important discussion about the impacts of the proposed bike lane on Harvard Street. The lane would connect multiple schools, parks, and churches and be the only East/West route south of 290 with lighted intersections to cross both Oak Park and Ridgeland, part of the village ef fort to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 60%.

Three themes emerged from those opposed to the plan: parking, cost, and community engagement. The primary argument against the bike lane is that it removes access for homeowners to park. However, homes with frontages on Harvard have frontages on nor th/south streets and garages, so those with multiple cars can still access their homes, even if it takes a few more steps.

Furthermore, improving bike infrastructure will improve parking in the village: the more trips taken by bike, the fewer parking spots are needed, increasing accessibility for drivers. Residents need look no further for evidence than bike corrals near the Green Line stations and OPRF High School. Bicycle storage takes up a fraction of the space of car parking.

The second argument concer ned the cost of the striped bike lane The estimate for the current plan is $156K, roughly $3/resident. The estimate for the second phase increases to $1.57M ($30/resident). Importantly, this phase is not under consideration now and will require further community engagement and board approval.

While these costs may seem high

compared to a do-nothing alternative, they are significantly more restrained than costs to maintain parking infrastructure. The board approved up to $665K in repairs for the garage on North Boulevard and overall in 2024, the Parking Fund in Oak Park lost over $1.7M.

The final argument focused on the community engagement process (or perceived lack thereof) regarding this plan. The Transportation Commission devoted two meetings to this topic that each had multiple hours of public comment. The commission also demonstrated willingness to listen to residents and recalibrate their plans based on feedback, e.g. the proposed Ridgeland and Le Moyne bike lanes

However the board proceeds, it will not have done so by ignoring the voices on either side.

Sources:

■ The para graph star ting “The second argument” is sourced from the bike plan: https://engageoakpark.com/25161/widgets/84902/ documents/66850

■ The Avenue info: https://www. oakpark.com/2024/08/28/avenueparking-garage-safety-repairs

■ On parking garages 2024: https://www.oak-park.us/files/ assets/oakpark/v/1/finance/ budgets/oak-park-village-fy2025adopted-budget-book-with-pagenumbers.pdf

■ On the transportation commission, the relevant minutes are from January, February, and March: https://www.oak-park.us/Government/Citizen-Boards-and-Commissions/Transportation-Commission

Justin Vlasits Oak Park

Harmon’s move is unacceptable

Re: the Chicago Tribune article on June 8, “Ethics legislation stalls in Springfield as Senate president tries ‘brazen’ move that would have helped his election case,” this move

from Don Harmon seems unacceptable Will anyone try to primary him next year?

Brady Hurlburt Oak Park

SHRUB TO WN by Marc Stopeck

Falsehoods of the Harvard bike plan

The Harvard Street bike plan has drawn much attention the last few months. Here is my ef fort to correct some misinformation.

1) Residents whose homes face Harvard are anti-bike. False. Many of us (including me) ride bikes on Harvard re gularly We are not anti-bike, but rather pro-compromise. How about a fair discussion about leaving parking on one side of the street? Let’s drop the all-or-nothing posture.

2) Harvard is unsafe for bike riders. False. Bike advocates have not yet pointed out any accident their plan would have prevented. There have been accidents but from cross-traffic and other causes. The bike plan would have prevented none of those accidents. Many of us bike safely on Harvard now.

3) Only a small group of people oppose the plan. False Upward of 40 of us have shown up to meetings to make our case. Rarely have even 10 people shown up to support the plan. There are over two dozen households with their

main entrances facing Harvard. That’s a lot of affected people. Why should the bike plan accommodate bike riders only, rather than a compromise accommodating many tax-paying residents?

4) Ending parking on all of Harvard is a minor inconvenience. False. A minor inconvenience for bikers who don’t live on Harvard, yes. Easy to take away other people’s parking in front of their homes. This ignores the needs of people with disabilities who come to our homes. It ignores the need of service people, like plumbers, electricians and others who must park their equipment trucks close to a job site. It ignores the safety of families with small children who need to park close to their front door.

As the Oak Park Village Board considers the bike plan, I hope they will use reason, facts, and consideration for Harvard residents in their deliberations. Please consider fair compromise.

Rich Pokorny Oak Park

WEDNESD AY

of Oak Park and River Forest

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e goal of the Viewpoints section is to foster and facilitate a community conversation and respectful dialogue. Responsible community voices are vital to community journalism and we welcome them. Space is at a premium and readers’ attention is also limited, so we ask that Viewpoints submissions be brief. Our limit for letters to the editor is 350 words. For One View essays, the limit is 500 words. Shorter is better. If and when we have su cient space, we print longer submissions, but when space is limited — as it o en is — we may ask you to submit a shorter version or hold the piece until space allows us to print it.

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anks for speaking truth to power

Loved Wednesday Jour nal last week. Very rich in the coverage of Juneteenth and reporting on the No Kings Rally. Really thrilled by the large response and the enthusiastic and respectful crowd on Saturday, June 14.

Congregations Networking for Social Justice urges local clergy to see this as an MLK moment when the representatives of many faiths inclusively demonstrate their leadership. Their presence gives courage to individuals. Our collective

power multiplies.

Many thanks to the Park District of Oak Park and the Police Department. It is marvelous to see support for public protest.

We know our neighbors will join with Oak Park again, to swell the throngs speaking truth to power.

Thank you.

Cynthia Breunlin Oak Park

Oak Park vs any other a ordable suburb

In response to the first “Boomer-coded” letter [Oak Park vs. Forest Park, Viewpoints, June 4] and the subsequent response [Getting his and getting out, Viewpoints, June 18], I would like to add my own perspective.

We just celebrated 50 years in our one-and-only home in Oak Park We loved raising our children here and being part of, and contributing to, such a wonderful and diverse community. But our real estate taxes have grown significantly from $800 in 1974 to $18,000 in 2025 (the majority of the money goes to the school districts). Our children have been out of the school system for 25 years, and I think there has to be some tax reform/relief regarding longtime owners and retired folks whose retirement income does not keep pace with working salaries.

My proposal would be to grant homeowners who have lived a minimum of 25 years in one home (if you move to a different house in Oak Park the clock starts over) and have no kids in the schools system a freeze. When the home is sold, it could be reassessed for current levels. Long-ter m residents with no children or retired folks who no longer have children in the school system are not a drain on the village coffers but provide our community with age diversity, volunteers and perspective.

We don’t all want to move to Forest Park because we love it here, but I do agree the parking signs could be a lot simpler … ; )

Mary Vostal Oak Park

My three years at

June 8 marked the 20th anniversary of the graduation of the Julian and Brooks middle school classes of 2005. We were distinguished as the first group of students to be there for three years and the first to start as sixth graders in the current middle-school buildings, upon completion of their construction in 2002.

While all experiences in our lives influence and shape us in some way, my three years at Julian had an enormously positive impact on me and defined me into the person I am today. I engaged my interests in an enhanced way, especially in the National Geographic Bee competition. And I experienced the diversity of Oak Park more deeply. As a significant example, meeting so many Jewish people among my classmates and lear ning about their religion and culture helped me to reflect on and appreciate my own. So even at a public middle school, I experienced a surge of faith and it inspired me on a journey from middle-schooler to middle-school catechist, a role I’ve had for the past 12 years at Ascension Parish. In that light, it was so fitting that June 8 this

Julian

year was Pentecost Sunday, a major Christian holy day, celebrating the descent of the Holy Spirit that brought the Church alive. During middle school, the Holy Spirit was truly at work in me. Furthermore, red is the liturgical color for Pentecost, and the color of the graduation attire I wore.

The Catholic tradition includes a Novena leading to Pentecost Sunday. It began this year on May 30, which was the day I returned to Julian to be a presenter at their Career Exploration Day. I had such a fabulous time, sharing with current students what I do for my work as a library cataloguer. I experienced such great hospitality and I enjoyed seeing how the students engaged with the activity I gave them and the questions they asked.

During my three years at Julian, it became a beloved place and for the past two decades, it has continued to bring me great joy.

Paul Rubio Oak Park

Republicans vs. Trumplicans

Donald Trump is not a Republican. He is a Trumplican. Currently “Republican” has two contradictory meanings. It could mean conservative GOP members or fearful irrationalists. All Republicans are being blamed for Trump’s actions. Using “Trumplican” allows citizens to attack Trumplicans, not all Republicans. Silenced Republicans want their name and honor back

Let’s differentiate Republicans from Trumplicans, so the sheep and the goats can be separated during the next election. Congressional GOP members may have their spines recalcified. Trumplicans will embrace the title to enhance their loyalty credentials

e Book Fair needs more books!

The Friends of the Oak Park Public Library are getting ready for their Annual Book Fair, July 11-13. Volunteers have been busy sorting books but we are running out of books to sort. We need more books to make this year’s sale a success Oak Parkers have always been generous supporters of our library. Please take the opportunity to clean out your bookshelves and donate those books that you have already read and do not want to keep You can also donate DVDs, CDs, puzzles and games. You will be helping your library to continue its excellent community programs and services through the funds raised at the sale. And you will also be making room

for the new-to-you books that you can find at the sale at great prices. You can bring your donations to the main library any time it is open through June 28. You can also drop your books in the Open Books bin located in the alley behind the library at any time and those books that you donate through June 30 will go to the sale. Finally, you can drive up to the library’s loading dock on Saturdays between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. through June 28 and volunteers will unload your donations from your car. Please donate and please come to the Book Fair. Details can be found at oppl.org/fair.

Anne Polaski Oak Park

Our pendulum swings only halfway

Your column last week was fabulous [Unchecked, unbalanced, unsupreme, Ken Trainor, Viewpoints, June 18]. I was recently involved in a dispute with a neighbor who said, “Well the pendulum swings back and forth, left and right.” This pendulum metaphor is one of my pet peeves. In my life I have seen swings from right to middle, then farther right, back toward the middle, but never ever progressive.

And now we are living in a fascist

Middle Ages, with half the country cheerfully burning witches and believing the Earth is flat. Your analysis of the Supreme Court proves my point.

And your conclusion about Al Gore conceding the presidency to G.W. Bush despite Gore having, in fact, won, is right on: Democrats really need to stop being such good sports about all of this!

Tom DeCoursey Oak Park

Robert Kleps Oak Park

Catherine Wirtz, 89

Worked at OPRF High School

Catherine Mary (Freund) Wirtz, 89, died peacefully, on pril 15, 2025 with her family by her ide. A for mer resient of Oak Park and Ottawa, she worked at Oak Park and River Forest High School for 15 years.

Catherine was the wife of the late John Wirtz; the mother of Ray (Julie) Wirtz, Jeff (Kathy) Wirtz, Mark (Diane) Wirtz and Mary (Cary) Shinsako; as well as 12 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren.

There will be a visitation on Saturday, July 5 from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. at Ascension Church, 808 S. East Ave., Oak Park, followed by Mass at 10:30 a.m.

Arrangements were handled by Sciaraffa Funeral Directors. For information, call 773-889-1700.

Ginny Cullen, 82 Avid golfer and card player

Virginia “Ginny” Cullen (nee Gaul), 82, of Oak Brook, former longtime resident of River Forest, died on June 11, 2025. Bor n on Dec. 20, 1942, she was a graduate of St. Vincent Ferrer grammar school and Trinity High School, then attended Marquette University and graduated from Rosary College (now Dominican University). She was active in St. Vincent Ferrer Parish in the Mother’s Club, where she knitted over 160 Christmas socks. An avid golfer, she served as treasurer of women’s golf at Butterfield Country Club and was the favorite check-in lady for the Butterfield Invitational Golf Tournament for many years. She also served as a board member for the Chicago Women’s District Golf Association. She worked at Alioto’s Gift Shop for many years and enjoyed playing cards, especially the weekly Spite and Malice card group. Always up for a party, and often the life of the party, she will be greatly missed.

Ginny was the wife of Frank “F.J.” Cullen

for 60 years; the mother of Elizabeth “Liz” (David) Langlois, Catherine “Cathy” (Bill) Kane, Frank “F.J.” (Kathleen) Cullen and the late Patrick Cullen; grandma of Matthew and Abby Langlois, Patrick, John and Maureen Kane, F.J. and Peter Cullen and P.J., Riley and Hunter Cullen; sister of Patricia (Tom) Dorian, Bob (Cathy) Gaul, Terry (Lisa Tasner) Gaul and the late Dr William (Patty) Gaul; aunt of many and countless friend to many more.

Visitation was held at Conboy-Westchester Funeral Home, 10501 W. Cermak Road, Westchester on June 16. A funeral Mass was celebrated at St. Vincent Ferrer Church, 1530 Jackson Ave., River Forest with private inter ment at All Saints Cemetery. Memorials to Trinity High School, 7574 Division St., River Forest, IL 60305, are appreciated

Arrangements were handled by Peter B. Kennedy & Co., Funeral Directors.

Lon Dring, 91

Minister committed to civil rights

Rev. Lincoln Selwyn Dring Jr., 91, died on Sunday, June 15, 2025, in Pompton Plains, New Jersey. Bor n on April 16, 1934, to Lincoln and Margaret (May) in Oak Park, he graduated from Oak Park and River High School in 1952 and was honored with the Tradition of Excellence Award in 1995. In 1956, he graduated from Dartmouth University and went on to study theology at Union Theological Seminary, which fueled his passions for civil liberties, social justice and dignity for all. He was ordained in the Presbyterian Church in 1960.

As an associate pastor at the Church of Good Neighbor in East Harlem, he galvanized his commitment to civil rights and became an active presence in civil rights marches throughout New York City and the country. He believed the principles of Gandhi and MLK and occasionally was arrested for civil disobedience.

Activism also led to his appointment as Chaplain at Howard University in Washington D.C. While serving for six years, he said a white minister had no business trying to provide leadership at a predominantly Black school during a period of tremendous growth in Black pride. What people need more than anything else, he said, is their

own empowerment.

Out of the emotions generated by the Vietnam War, he saw community ministry making sense and co-founded the Community Ministry of Montgomery County (CMMC) in 1972. What began as a collection of Protestant churches, grew to more than 120 faith-based organizations spanning all religions of the Washington D.C. suburban areas. Through economies of scale, CMMC was able to feed more, shelter more and advocate more, ensuring all voices were heard.

For nearly 30 years, he led CMMC. His vision, storytelling abilities, and leadership nurtured many programs to meet the growing needs of disenfranchised people. A food voucher program grew into Manna Food Center, serving over 50,000 pounds of food a month, an accomplishment recognized by the Washingtonian Magazine which awarded him their Washingtonian of the Year Award in 1984.

He was among the early adopters of Habitat for Humanity. For years, he guided rezoning, financing, development, and support affordable projects throughout the DC area. His work with mixed-use, affordable housing was recognized by naming a large project in Silver Spring, Maryland after him, Dring’ Reach, because his reach was far and wide He especially appreciated the Martin Luther King Humanitarian Award for “li ing the dream” and continuing King’s lega on behalf of the citizens of Montgomery County

shall and Jeffrey (Grace Leung) Marshall; the grandfather of Jennifer Marshall; the brother of Pam Gorman, Ken Marshall, Gay (David) Ryder, Jim (Pam) Marshall and Amy (Skip) Choate; and the uncle of many nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be held at Conboy-Westchester Funeral Home, 10501 W. Cer mak Road, Westchester on Tuesday, June 24 from 2 to 7 p.m. A funeral Mass will be celebrated at 10 a.m. on Wednesday, June 25 at Ascension Church in Oak Park, followed by interment at Oakridge Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are appreciated to the American Diabetes Association (www.diabetes.org) or the charity of your choice

Ed O’Brien, 62 Bird watcher, librarian

Lon was married to Janice (Farmer/Park) for 51 years until she died in 2019. He is survived by his brother Bill and Bill’s wife Janet (Barton) for merly of Oak Park, and his children Cheryl Park Kupersmith and David Dring. He had three grandchildren.

Bill Marshall, 86

Former Oak Park trustee

William T. Marshall, 86, of Oak Park, died on June 20, 2025. Bor n on July 14, 1938, he was the publisher for the American Bankers Association for many years and was a for mer trustee for the village of Oak Park. An avid reader, he loved classical music and doing crossword puzzles and enjoyed spending time in South Haven, Michigan and Venice, Florida. Bill was the husband of Suzanne (nee Rokos); the father of Melissa (Michael) Mar-

Edward M. O’Brien, 62, died suddenly on June 12, 2025. Born on Jan. 13, 1963, he earned a BA from Northeaster n and an MLIS from Dominican University. He was also in the U.S. Navy, PO3, rk Public Library er 35 y th generation Oak Parker, he enjoyed engaging with other Oak Parkers from their childhood into adulthood, knowing them their whole lives in Oak Park He was the library’s Local History Librarian, helping patrons near and far research and lear n about Oak Park.

He enjoyed bird watching, traveling, spending time with family and socializing with friends. He was a lifelong socialite and active member of the community. He will be best remembered for his love and highest affection for nature, the outdoors, and traveling to exotic locations for birding. He enjoyed time with his “brothers and sisters of the stacks” at Oak Park library.

Ed was the brother of Paul (Mary Ostrega) and the uncle of Justin, Connor and Garett. He was preceded in death by his father, Edward Sr. and his mother, Mary Ellen (Collopy) Visitation was held on June 22 at Woodlawn Funeral Home, 7750 W. Cermak Road, Forest Park. A Celebration of Life followed at the Oak Park Conservatory, 615 Garfield St., Oak Park. Private inter ment at Queen of Heaven.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions are appreciated to the Nature Conservancy https://preserve.nature.org.

OPRF seniors Topel, Chambers are throwing, walking miracles

Pitchers defy injuries to help softball team take third in Class 4A

By BILL STONE Contributing Reporter

Senior pitcher Anna Topel was hit by a pitch near her right throwing hand, March 26, during the Oak Park and River Forest High School softball team’s last spring-break game in Tennessee. She immediately sensed something bad, probably a broken wrist.

“One of the fingers couldn’t move,” she recalled.

After Topel’s fears were confirmed at Urgent Care, she shared the news at the hotel with senior suitemates Sofia Ayala, Maura Carmody and Gloria Hronek.

“I just remember we were sitting there wondering what happened. And she walked into our room with a sling and we all just teared up,” Hronek said. “At first, I didn’t think she would (play at all). Just seeing her in that room was so sad. [Afterward] just watching her work, I knew she’d be back. She was so deter mined.”

not even come [then] just being her Topel said. “I cal miracle, my butt off back. I’m so happy it all paid of ing I could ha If Topel is the thr pitcher Molly Chambers is the walking mira cle. Spraining her right knee on the rainy conditions, tinued pitching knee ligament.

Chambers said she “felt a pretty big pop” in r nal loss to Os son MRI scheduled “[OPRF athletic trainer Katie McGee] was telling me, ‘I really don’t recommend you playing.’ I said, ‘I have two weeks left in my softball career. I’m going to play on it. As long as I can walk, I’m going to play,’” Chambers said.

Seven screws were inserted to ensure her wrist healed with proper alignment. The rate of recovery was in Topel’s hands – and ar m.

“Our pitchers have the story of the tournament,” senior catcher Julia Mattiace said. “They are the most gritty, determined, passionate pitchers I’ve ever worked with.”

On Saturday, the four Huskies were the last to leave the award ceremony at the Class 4A state tournament in Peoria. They posed with medals and team trophy after all started and contributed to finishing third for the second time in three years with a 6-5 victory over Lockport

And yes, that included Topel, who pitched all seven innings to climax her unbelievable return. She finished with a 10-1 pitching record and six playoff appearances since retur ning to pitch with one inning on May 12. “Being told from the beginning that I would

Teamwork off the field made Topel’s miracle possible. The mother of freshman starting right-fielder Charlie Terry works at Rush University Medical Center. She connected Topel and renowned Rush orthopedic surgeon John Fer nandez, who regularly operates on professional athletes

The father of senior shortstop Elyssa Hasapis drove Topel from Tennessee through the night for consultation the next morning Topel underwent surgery the following day (March 28).

“That, itself, is a medical miracle, if you know anything about [scheduling] surgery,” Topel said.

“We’d be at practice, games, and she’d be in the corner, kind of right behind the dugout, working on her spin,” Hronek said. “After everything we’ve been through, especially Anna’s injury, we didn’t really think we’d make it this far but she did amazing coming back, getting us here.”

For merly a power pitcher, Topel and OPRF coach JP Coughlin re-invented her approach. Frustrated at first, Topel worked with her pitching coach three times a week.

“I lost a lot of spin, speed, everything. I kind of went from being a strikeout pitcher to inducing popups, anything [for outs],” said Topel, who had 46 strikeouts in 61 innings this season. “I have to put all of my trust in my defense and they pulled through [Saturday] for me.”

For her third straight outing, Topel had no strikeouts but allowed just six hits to Lockport. She retired the last seven hitters in order.

Coughlin said Topel, whose “best” pitches

were a rise ball and change-up before the injury, used only one each Saturday.

“I think I took the spor t for granted so badly and now every time, I’m just grateful to be out there with my teammates, especially the team we have,” Topel said. “I think that was the hardest thing because I knew this was going to be such a good team. This is the most positive team ever. That’s my favorite part.” Topel pitched into the fourth inning Friday until she was relieved by junior Carolyn Rainey. Chambers entered in the sixth and got the final two outs

Afterward, Chambers was in so much pain walking that she required a golf cart to reach the team bus.

Miraculously, Saturday was business as usual.

“I woke up, I taped it up a bunch and I think the adrenaline’s taken over and I’m able to walk on it,” Chambers said.

“She greeted me this morning and she’s like, ‘I’m ready for an inning or two if you need me,’” Coughlin said. “I was ready to put her in, but Anna was so good down the stretch.”

PHOTO S COURTESY OF MARK C. REGAN OPRF High School’s Anna Topel pitches against Oswego in an IHSA Class 4A so ball semi nal, June 13.

MOLLY CHAMBERS

Fenwick’s Williams resp onds well to adversity

Earns All-State at state track meet in spite of major injur y

By MELVIN TATE Contributing Reporter

Not long ago, when an athlete tore his or her ACL (Anterior Cruciate Ligament) in the knee, it was considered a debilitating injury that required a lengthy recovery period following surgery. It ruined many careers.

Today, however, advances in medicine and rehabilitation have significantly reduced the recovery time of an ACL injury, allowing athletes to return to competition sooner

During the football season last fall, rising Fenwick High School senior Aiden Williams tore his ACL. But through intense rehabilitation, he was able to return in time for the track and field season. Williams’ perseverance and determination paid off as he earned All-State honors in last month’s IHSA Class 2A state meet thanks to his sixth-place finish in the 110-meter high hurdles (time of 14.73 seconds).

“It meant everything,” Williams said in a phone interview with Wednesday Journal,

“especially with my took a lot of work to g I was; I didn’t expect to make it that far to state.”

It’s the second consecuti Williams has been an Last season, he placed sixth in the 300 low hurdles with a time of 39.86 seconds, a school record

Williams says he likes the high hurdles better because he feels those races are f paced. He credits hard the reason for his quick reco

“I wasn’t surprised,” he said. “I wanted to get back quickly, so I spent more time in the weight room and in physical one else was surprised, but I wasn Count Fenwick boys’ cross-country/trac and field coach David Rill as among those surprised.

“To be honest, when he tore his knee in football, we were sure the wasn’t going to happen,” Rill said. “It was unbelievable to see how quickly back. I know he was wo and doing everything he needed to do to back, and he proved us wrong, which was great.”

Avani

Rising sophomore is one of state’s top girls basketball prospects

By MELVIN TATE Contributing Reporter

Rising sophomore Avani Williams of Fenwick High School finds herself among the state’s top girl basketball prospects in the Class of 2028 – fifth, in fact, according to Prep Girls Hoops. She is humbled by the distinction.

“I think it’s crazy that I’ve come this far,” Williams told Wednesday Journal in a phone interview. “I feel like I’ve gotten so much better since last season. It all comes down to confidence.”

As a freshman on Fenwick’s varsity last year, Williams averaged 11.3 points and 4.6 rebounds per game and was named the Friars’ Most Valuable Player. She also made the Girls

Catholic Athletic All-Conference T

“I really li she said of her decision to go to Fenwick. “I also knew a lot of friends who we I knew a lot of ketball team alread

Williams admits she had some challenges playing on the level. But she also ence will help impr

“It was a good experienc said. “I did ha I’d never played gone a little bit were really good.”

Fenwick head

ticipated Williams having ups and downs last season, but thought she acquitted herself well overall.

Rill said coaching Williams is

s really smooth over the hurdles,” he said. “Watching him in practice, some days I’m amazed. He’s a quality kid all-around, and it’s fun to work with kids like him.”

lliams, a River Forest resiho attended Roosevelt Middle School, also shines on ridiron for Fenwick. A safety, he played in four games the injury and had 27 tackles (11 Honorable Mention on the League/East Suburban Catholic Conference White All-Conference

e missed him a lot last year,” said Fenootball coach Matt Battaglia. “Having as a senior with Tommy [Thies], e going to be a strong duo and one of the better ones in the league.”

Athleticism runs in Williams’ family His ed football at the Unillinois Urbana-Champaign, and Avani, who also attends Fenwick, is one of the state’s top girls basers in the Class of 2028.

“She’s one of those kids who’s starting to understand her talent level and how good she can be as long as she puts in the work,”

Travis, who is Fenwick’s defensive backs coach, is proud of Aiden’s g rit and determination in the rehab process

“He’s bounced back so well,” Travis said, “doing things that people never thought he’d be able to do. Also, prayer changes things. Aiden is a very driven kid, but I told him I need you to trust me and your mom. We’re going to hit this thing hard so you can get ba ck on the track. The training and physical therapy, I’ll need you to buy in, and he did. Supporting him through this has been great; I’m very proud of him.”

While Aiden Williams said he doesn’t have any colle ge offers yet, he knows he’ll have an interesting decision to make regarding which sport to play as he has potential to be successful with either.

“I want to do a sport in colle ge,” Williams said, “but I’m not sure which one yet.”

“That’d be a great problem to have,” Travis Williams said. “If he wants to go down the track route, he’ll have some opportunities. If he g ets [football] offers from [NCAA] Division I, II, or a little smaller, or if he g ets opportunities to play football and run track and that’s what he’d love to do, he’ll have some options come the next six months.”

h at Fenwick

rgerson said. “She’s always in before and after practice ing on her craft. Avani is a who doesn’t complain, ks hard, really wants to learn

She’s a great program id, and her family is really supwhat we’re trying to ry fortunate to have ani in our program.”

lliams likes playing for

“She knows the potential our lliams said, “and she’s a really ood coach who knows how to push us.” ppreciates the support and ets from her coaches Elite Express, one of the area’s ams, as well as from her utumn, father Travis, and brother Aiden.

Travis played college football at the University of Illinois and is Fenwick’s defensive backs coach, while Aiden, a rising senior, is a

two-time All-Stater (300 hurdles last year, 110 hurdles this year) in track and field as well as a safety for the Friars football team.

“It’s not a sibling rivalry with Aiden,” Williams said. “We push each other to see who’s going to do best each day.”

Like Aiden, Avani is a well-rounded athlete. She qualified for the IHSA Class 2A girls track and field championships in the high jump last month.

“I’ve been doing it since seventh grade,” she said. “I went to state in both seventh and eighth grades. It’s fun.”

Williams, who carries a 3.87 grade point average, is not sitting on her accolades. She’s striving to get better as she looks to play her part in helping improve Fenwick’s fortunes

“I just want to find a routine for myself, going as hard as I can and playing with much effort Trying to focus, and if I mess up, going on to the next play,” Williams said. “For my team, we didn’t win a [GCAC] game last season, so we want to do that this year and continue to get better.”

Willi

AIDEN WILLIAMS

AVANI WILLIAM

NOTICE OF OPEN HOUSE AND PUBLIC HEARING VILLAGE OF OAK PARK BIKE PLAN UPDATE

OPEN HOUSE AND PUBLIC HEARING DATES, TIMES, AND LOCATIONS�

� July 14, 2025, 6�00 p.m. to 8�00 p.m. at Carroll Center, 1125 S. Kenilworth Ave., Oak Park, Illinois 60304

� July 16, 2025, 6�00 p.m. to 8�00 p.m. at the Park District of Oak Park’s Community Recreation Center, 229 Madison St., Oak Park, Illinois 60302

PURPOSE� The Village of Oak Park (“Village”) will conduct two open houses and public hearings on the Bike Plan Update which is a Village-wide transportation planning study that includes recommendations for the installation of on-street bicycle accommodations which may require the removal of on-street parking at multiple locations. A copy of the draft Bike Plan Update document is on file and are available for inspection at Village Hall, Village Manager’s Office, 123 Madison Street, Oak Park, Illinois 60302, Monday through Friday between 8�30 a.m. and 5�00 p.m., or can be

found on the Village’s website https://engageoakpark.com/ bike-plan.

Information will be shared at the open house regarding the Bike Plan Update. Additionally, all interested persons will be given an opportunity to make comments of up to three minutes each at the public hearing, which will be recorded by Village staff by audio or video. Interested persons may also submit public comment by emailing transportation@oak-park.us or submitting the comments in writing to: Village of Oak Park, Attention: Village Engineer, 123 Madison Street, Oak Park, Illinois 60302. Comments made at the public hearing and received via email or in writing will be shared with the Village Board for their review.

If you require assistance to participate in any Village program or activity, contact the ADA Coordinator at 708.358.5430 or email ADACoordinator@oakpark.us at least 48 hours before the scheduled activity.

Published in Wednesday Journal, June 25, 2025

Legal Notice for River Forest Public Library Community Room

By authority of the Board of Library Trustees, sealed bids will be received until 2:00 p.m., prevailing time, on July 15, 2025, by the Board of Library Trustees of the River Forest Public Library for the Community Room. Any bids received after 2:00 p.m. will not be accepted. The project consists of the renovation of the existing community room and workroom and the creation of a new family restroom in the youth department. The work includes but is not limited to: demolition, millwork, doors, partitions, interior finishes, fire protection, plumbing, mechanical, electrical, low-voltage systems, and Audio Visual.

Responses shall be submitted in duplicate on or before the specified closing time in an opaque sealed envelope marked as noted within the Bidding Documents on the outside and addressed to: Emily Compton, Library Director, River Forest Public Library. Responses are to be mailed or hand delivered to the River Forest Public Library, 735 Lathrop Avenue, River Forest, IL 60305

A mandatory pre-bid site conference and walk-through for contractors will be held on July 1, 2025 at 9:00 a.m. at the River Forest Public Library, 735 Lathrop Avenue, River Forest, IL 60305.

Bid security in the form of a bid bond or certified check made payable to the River Forest Public Library equal to 10% of the base bid amount shall be submitted with the bid. Performance and Labor and Material Payment Bonds, and Certificate of Insurance will be required from the successful bidder.

The River Forest Public Library Board of Trustees reserves the right to reject any or all documents submitted or parts thereof, to waive any irregularities or informalities in the prequalification procedures and to approve trade contractors and vendors to bid in a manner serving the interest of the River Forest Public Library.

All bidders must comply with the applicable Illinois Law requiring the payment of prevailing wages, and bidders must comply with the Illinois Statutory requirements regarding labor and bidding, including Equal Opportunity Laws. All bidders must comply with requirements listed in the documents.

Bidding documents which include Project Manual and Project Plans will be on file and may be obtained by bidders on June 23, 2025, after 12:00 p.m., for electronic distribution through BHFX Planroom website: http://www.bhfxplanroom.com. All communication should be directed to Shaun Kelly, Engberg Anderson, 8618 W. Catalpa Avenue, Chicago, IL 60656. (PH: 312-846-7646; EM: shaunk@engberganderson. com). Hard copies are available for purchase through the BHFX Planroom. All costs associated with printing will be borne by the bidding contractor or vendor.

Published in Wednesday Journal June 25, 2025

Legal Notice Village of River Forest Development Review Board River Forest, Illinois

Public notice is hereby given that a Public Hearing will be held by the Development Review Board of the Village of River Forest, County of Cook, State of Illinois, on Thursday, July 10th, 2025, at 7:30 p.m. in the Community Room of the River Forest Village Hall, 400 Park Avenue, River Forest, Illinois on the following matter:

Application # 26-0001: Amending Planned Development Ordinance No. 2643 Regarding Priory Park: Application to construct a splash pad, expand the south end of the Priory Center, and construct a picnic shelter.

The address of the property is as follows: 7354 Division Street, River Forest, IL 60305.

The applicant is: River Forest Park District

Legal Description:

Park District Property –Sub Parcel “E”

The easterly 200.00 feet of the westerly 505.00 feet of the following described tract: Of that part of the south half of the east half of the northeast quarter of Section 1, Township 39 North, Range 12, east of the third principal meridian, in Cook County, Illinois, described as follows: Commencing at the southwest corner of the south half of the east half of the northeast quarter of said Section 1; thence south 90 degrees east along the south line of said northeast quarter of Section 1, a distance of 221.12 feet; thence North 00 degrees east at right angles to the last described line a distance of 40.00 feet to the point of beginning, said point also being on the northerly right-ofway line of Division Street, as per document No. 8265055; thence north 00 degrees 10’ 00” east parallel with the west line of the east half of said northeast quarter of said Section 1, a distance of 661.14 feet; thence south 89 degrees 50’ 00” east a distance of 381.00 feet; thence south 00 degrees 23’ 06” west a distance of 105.71 feet; thence south 08 degrees 45’ 24” east a distance of 129.68 feet to a point of curvature, thence along a curve to the left having a radius of 150.00 feet, an arc length of 212.70 feet, thence south 75 degrees 14’ 32” east, a distance of 82.05 feet; thence south 00 degrees west, a distance of 22.50 feet; thence south 90 degrees east, a distance of 68.00 feet; thence south 00 degrees west, a distance of 255.60 feet to the northerly right-of-way line of said Division Street; thence north 90 degrees west along the northerly right-of-way line of said Division Street, a distance of 607.54 feet to the point of beginning.

All interested persons will be given the opportunity to be heard at the public hearing, the purpose of which is to take evidence on the Application for the Development Review Board and Village Board to consider. A copy of the application and meeting agenda will be available to the public at the Village Hall, 400 Park Avenue, River Forest, or at www.vrf.us.

Clifford Radatz Secretary Development Review

Board

Published in Wednesday Journal June 25, 2025

PUBLIC NOTICES

PUBLIC NOTICE

ADVERTISEMENT OF BIDDING For: 229 Madison Solar PV and Canopy Installation for the Park District of Oak Park.

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

The Park District of Oak Park seeks bids for the Solar PV and Canopy installation at the parking lot of the Community Recreation Center, 229 Madison St., Oak Park, IL. The Park District of Oak Park will receive sealed Bids until 2:00 pm (Chicago time) on Monday, July 21 , 2025 at 218 Madison St., Oak Park, Illinois. The bidding documents and requirements will be available on the Demand Star website as of 5:00pm on Thursday, June 26, 2025. A non-mandatory pre-bid walk-thru of the facilities will be held on Tuesday, July 8th at 2:00 pm starting at the Community Recreation Center, 229 Madison St., Oak Park, IL. Copies of the bidding specifications are available via the Demand Star website at: https://www.demandstar.com/ app/buyers/bids/503253/details For additional information, contact Chris Lindgren at chris. lindgren@pdop.org or 708-7252050. This contract bid must adhere to the Prevailing Wage Act of 2025. Only the bids in compliance with the provisions of the bidding specifications will be considered. Minority and Women Owned businesses are strongly encouraged.

Park District of Oak Park

By: Sandy Lentz, Secretary Park District of Oak Park 218 Madison Oak Park, IL 60302

Published in Wednesday Journal June 25, 2025

REAL ESTATE FOR SALE

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT - CHANCERY DIVISION US BANK TRUST NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUT SOLELY AS OWNER TRUSTEE FOR VRMTG ASSET TRUST Plaintiff vs. UNKNOWN HEIRS AND LEGATEES OF WILLIE G. HENRY; FLORENCETTA HENRY; TCF NATIONAL BANK; ANITA HENRY; COURTNEY HENRY; EBONEE HENRY; MERCEDES HENRY; TIARA HENRY; JACK LYDON, AS SPECIAL REPRESENTATIVE OF WILLIE G. HENRY; UNKNOWN HEIRS AND LEGATEES OF FLORENCETTA HENRY, IF ANY; UNKNOWN OWNERS AND NON RECORD CLAIMANTS; Defendant 17 CH 13529 CALENDAR 61 NOTICE OF SALE

PUBLIC NOTICE is hereby given that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure entered in the above entitled cause Intercounty Judicial Sales Corporation will on July 21, 2025, at the hour 11:00 a.m., Intercounty’s office, 120 West Madison Street, Suite 718A, Chicago, IL 60602, sell to the highest bidder for cash, the following described mortgaged real estate: P.I.N. 15-09-315-063-0000.

Commonly known as 635 Rice Avenue, Bellwood, IL 60104. The real estate is: 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: At sale, the bidder must have 10% down by certified funds, balance within 24 hours, by certified funds. No refunds. The property will NOT be open for inspection. Prospective bidders are admonished to check the court file to verify all information.

For information call Sales Department at Plaintiff’s Attorney, Codilis & Associates, P.C., 15W030 North Frontage Road. Suite 100, Burr Ridge, IL 60527. (630) 794-5300. 14-23-01315

INTERCOUNTY JUDICIAL SALES CORPORATION

intercountyjudicialsales.com I3267950

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

ATHENE ANNUITY & LIFE ASSURANCE COMPANY

Plaintiff vs. UNKNOWN HEIRS OF JOYCE A. ROBINSON, CITY OF CHICAGO, CAPITAL ONE, N.A. SUCCESSOR IN INTEREST TO CAPITAL ONE BANK (USA), N.A., MIDLAND FUNDING LLC, RONALD ROBINSON, JUVONA ROBINSON, AMIR MOHABBAT AS SPECIAL REPRESENTATIVE, UNKNOWN OWNERS AND NON-RECORD CLAIMANTS

Defendant 23 CH 1793

CALENDAR 59

NOTICE OF SALE

PUBLIC NOTICE is hereby given that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure entered in the above entitled cause Intercounty Judicial Sales Corporation will on July 21, 2025, at the hour 11:00 a.m., Intercounty’s office, 120 West Madison Street, Suite 718A, Chicago, IL 60602, sell to the highest bidder for cash, the following described mortgaged real estate: P.I.N. 15-17-113-013-0000. Commonly known as 236 N. FOREST AVE., HILLSIDE, IL 60162. The real estate is: 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: At sale, the bidder must have 10% down by certified funds, balance within 24 hours, by certified funds. No refunds. The property will NOT be open for inspection. Prospective bidders are admonished to check the court file to verify all information.

For information call Sales Department at Plaintiff’s Attorney, Law Offices of Ira T. Nevel, 175 North Franklin Street, Suite 201, Chicago, Illinois 60606. (312) 357-1125. 2300555

INTERCOUNTY JUDICIAL SALES CORPORATION intercountyjudicialsales.com I3267963

Submit events and see full calendar at oakpark.com/events

AUSTIN FORWARD. TOGETHER. 2025 QUARTER 1

June 25, 2025

THE AUSTIN COMMUNITY PUBLISHED ITS FIRST QUALITY-OF-LIFE PLAN CALLED AUSTIN FORWARD. TOGETHER. (AFT) IN 2018.

THIS QUARTERLY PUBLICATION DESCRIBES HOW AUSTIN COMING TOGETHER (ACT) IS SUPPORTING THE COMMUNITY TO IMPLEMENT AFT AND OTHER EFFORTS.

FREEDOM

TO ASPIRE

Delivering on our promise to the community

COMING FULL CIRCLE PAGE 3 | MEET THE ACWI TENANTS PAGE 4 | HOLISTIC MODEL AT ACWI PAGE 6 | COMMUNITY VIOLENCE INTERVENTION IN AUSTIN PAGE 7 MEET YOUR AUSTIN OUTREACH WORKERS PAGE 10

Special thanks to these Austin Forward. Together. quality-of-life plan legacy investors: THIS ISSUE INCLUDES A SPECIAL FEATURE PROFILE OF SCALING COMMUNITY VIOLENCE INTERVENTION FOR SAFER CHICAGO (SC2) STARTING ON PAGE 7

Since 2010, Austin Coming Together (ACT) has facilitated collaboration to improve education and economic development outcomes in Chicago’s Austin neighborhood.

Today, we serve a network of 50+ organizations committed to improving the quality of life in the Austin community. Our strategic plan is called Thrive 2025 and outlines how we will mobilize our resources to achieve four impact goals by the year 2025: Quality Early Learning, Safe Neighborhoods, Living Wage Careers, and Stable Housing Markets.

ACT BOARD

OF DIRECTORS

Officers

CHAIR

Larry Williams

Broker, State Farm Insurance

VICE CHAIRMAN

Bradly Johnson

Chief Community Officer, BUILD Inc.

SECRETARY

Jerrod Williams

Law Clerk, Illinois Appellate Court

ACT STAFF

Leadership

Darnell Shields

Executive Director

Research & Evaluation

Andrew Born*

Senior Director of Community Impact

Mia Almond

Research Associate

Operations

TREASURER

LaDarius Curtis

Senior Director of Community Engagement & Health, West Side United

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Darnell Shields

Austin Coming Together

Directors

Sharon Morgan

Director of Graduate Support & Community Outreach, Catalyst Schools

Reverend Reginald E. Bachus Pastor, Friendship Baptist Church

Deirdre Bates*

Director of Operations

Dearra Williams

Executive Operations Lead/ Assistant to the CEO

Londen Mance

Office Administrator

Strategic Initiatives

Sandra Diaz*

Service Delivery Enhancement Manager, Austin Community Hub

Emone Moore

Engagement Coordinator, Austin Community Hub

Dollie Sherman

Engagement Specialist, Austin Community Hub

Tenisha Jones

Executive Management Professional

Reginald Little

Business Development Specialist, Great Lakes Credit Union

Dawn Ferencak

Senior Marketing Strategist, Chicago Parent

Deborah Williams-Thurmond

Founder & CEO, D.W. Provision Consulting Services

Saenovia Poole

Community Resources Coordinator, Austin Community Hub

Clara Bonnlander

Social Services Coordinator, Austin Community Hub

Ethan Ramsay*

Planning and Investment Manager

Grace Cooper Lead Organizer

*Also part of the ACT Leadership Team

ACT MEMBER ORGANIZATIONS

A House in Austin

Academy of Scholastic Achievement

Austin Childcare Providers Network

Austin Community Family Center

Austin Weekly News

(Growing Community Media)

Be Strong Families

Beat the Streets Chicago

Bethel New Life

Beyond Hunger

BUILD Inc.

By The Hand Club For Kids

Cara Catholic Charities

Chicago Austin Youth Travel Adventures

Chicago Community Loan Fund

City of Refuge

Defy Ventures Illinois

Erikson Institute

Friends of the Children

Friendship Community Development Corp. of Austin

Greater West Town Community Development Project

Housing Forward

Ruth Kimble

Founder & CEO, Austin Childcare Providers Network

Max Komnenich

Associate Principal, Lamar Johnson Collaborative

In Memoriam

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Jack Macnamara 1937–2020

FOUNDING BOARD CHAIR

Mildred Wiley 1955–2019

Nyla Larry

Project Coordinator

Arewa Karen Winters

Community Organizer

Natalie Goodin

Special Projects Manager

Strategic Initiatives

La’Shawna Bundy

Community Land Trust Coordinator

Marketing & Development

Jon Widell

Marketing and Development Specialist

Sydni Hatley

Marketing and Development Coordinator

i.c. stars

IFF

Institute for Nonviolence

Chicago

Jane Addams Resource Corporation

Kids First Chicago

KRA Westside American Job Center

Learning Edge Tutoring (fka Cluster Tutoring)

Legal Aid Chicago (fka LAF)

Manufacturing Renaissance

Mary Shyrese Daycare

Maryville Academy

Mercy Housing Lakefront

New Moms

OAI, Inc.

Oak Park Regional Housing Center

Open Books

PCC Community Wellness Center

Project Exploration

Renaissance Social Services, Inc.

Sarah’s Inn

South Austin Neighborhood Association

St. Joseph Services

St. Leonard’s Ministries

Stone Community

Development Corporation

The Catalyst Schools

The Journey Forward

The North Avenue

District, Inc.

Towers of Excellence

UIC Jane Addams College of Social Work

VOCEL

Westside Health Authority

West Side Forward

Worldvision

Youth Guidance

Coming Full Circle

By Darnell Shields Executive Director, Austin Coming Together

In 2013, 50 Chicago Public Schools were closed by then Mayor Rahm Emmanual, with the largest number, four, being located in Austin. Low-income areas across the city that already were facing disinvestment, crime, and dwindling opportunities were hit the hardest. These closures removed even more access to necessary resources to the people of Austin. When the former Emmet School (now the Aspire Center for Workforce Innovation (ACWI)), first became available ACT and Westside Health Authority (WHA) knew that this was an opportunity to reclaim what was lost in the community. A rare chance to not only have a physical and permanent space to serve as a reminder of the freedoms that had been taken away, but to also show how the future is shaping up for Austin and the Westside. To further illustrate this point and to drive home what the Aspire Center symbolizes, Juneteenth (6/19/2025) was chosen for the grand opening date.

Community buy in and input was key to the success of this project, in determining what was needed and what this needed to look like. From the start, we worked alongside

community members to provide residents with the wraparound resources they need to move from workforce development to building wealth. The community built this for itself, and the Aspire Center stands as a testament to the power of community organizing and collective vision. Built on the efforts of passionate advocates and community trailblazers, this project reflects a legacy crafted by and for the people it serves.

Located at Madison and Central, along two main commercial corridors, ACWI is part of a broader effort to revitalize our local economy and increase home ownership. When residents walk past the building, we want them to feel pride, and when they walk in, we want them to feel supported.

ACWI not only represents visible and physical change, but reclaiming a physical asset in the community serves as a reminder of the hope and the change that is possible, and that it is happening right now. While the Aspire Center is a new structure, it was important that much of the original structure, built in 1893, was preserved. It was key to show an ode to the past while pushing the boundaries forward, reimagining what was once thought possible, challenging the status quo and telling our youth their futures matter, but remembering where we came from.

Decades of disinvestment in the area have brought and shaped radical change, and this day and moment we hope serves as a point of liberation. The northeast corner of Madison and Central Avenue is no longer a reminder of Austin’s inequitable past, but an engine of new opportunities for generations of Austin families. After nearly a decade of planning and imagining, the Aspire Center has opened its doors to the community. n

Meet the ACWI Tenants

Tenants Austin Coming Together, Westside Health Authority, Jane Addams Resources, and BMO

Since 2010, Austin Coming Together (ACT) has facilitated collaboration among its member network to collectively impact education and economic development outcomes in Austin. ACT assisted the community in creating its first-ever quality-of-life plan and manages its ongoing implementation, in addition to engaging with residents to get them connected to resources.

As the lead for the Austin Quality-of-Life Plan, ACT supported Westside Health Authority (WHA) in working with community leaders to make the Emmet School building a focal project of the plan. This led to partnershing with WHA and other organizations to submit a proposal for the CHicago Prize called the ASPIRE Initiative. While it was ultimately not selected for the prize (1 of 6 finalists), ACT became a co-developer and anchor tenant of the project to ensure the resources for construction and mobilization of the center into operations could be raised.

While mobilizing the center for operations, anchor tenants identified ACT’s role as lead for service coordination, community organizing, and evaluation. The Hub @ ACWI will play a central role in guiding the implementation of the Aspire Centers Operating Model, coordinating with all Anchor Tenants to connect residents and enhance their awareness of available services and resources. In addition, The Hub @ ACWI will also continue to support service providers and organizations in strengthening their relationship with one another and with the community, while ACT’s P&I team will leverage the center to facilitate high quality action planning sessions and host trainings that will build our collective power to realize the Austin Forward. Together. Quality-of-life plan.

For over 30 years Westside Health Authority (WHA) has been providing support to residents through community reentry, youth development, and employment services. They focus on economic development projects that revitalize and rebuild the Austin community by leveraging the power of its citizens. In 2018, WHA purchased the property of the former Emmet School, now Aspire Center for Workforce Innovation, in a continued effort to create opportunities for the citizens of the Greater Westside on the recommendation of community stakeholders who desired to see the site redeveloped into a safe, attractive space for residents to access commerce and community services.

WHA has sought out to revive the once-bustling intersection of Madison and Central, and the repurposing of the Emmet School is a giant step in that mission. The Aspire Center will serve as a centralized location for Austin’s youth and unemployed and underemployed adults seeking career training and support. WHA is moving their reentry work to ACWI, in addition to their main operations and media and property management teams to make their work more accessible for the community.

Anchor

Since 1985, Jane Addams Resource Corporation (JARC) has trained low-income adults in manufacturing, and will be continuing their free on-site skills training at the Aspire Center. Austin residents will have access to Computer Numerical Control machine operation, welding, and mechanical assembly.

JARC has served as a Strategy Lead for the Austin Quality-of-Life Plan since 2019, on the Economic Development task force. They have sought to disrupt the traditional industry of manufacturing by investing in workers, targeted skills training, comprehensive support services and industry collaboration. With the goal of helping low-income workers, job seekers, and community residents attain financial selfsufficiency through manufacturing skills training and wrap-around supportive services.

JARC will be moving their main offices to ACWI, which will allow them to have a prominent and easily accessible location in Austin for the first time, to further their commitment to bringing wealth opportunities to Austin through their FOC work and continue reshaping the manufacturing industry’s relationship with its workforce.

The Freedom Defense Center of Austin fosters accountability and trust between the Public Defender’s Office and the community it serves. The Freedom Defense Center was founded in direct partnership with Austin residents, standing with and advocating for this community to reduce the impact of the carceral system and fight for justice. It works to change the narrative around harm and safety by honoring community members’ experiences and prioritizing their autonomy.

The Freedom Defense Center provides services aligned with their values: Collaboration, Transparency and Courage.

Through its partnership with United Way of Metro Chicago, BMO was a legacy investor in the Aspire Center and United Way’s ongoing work in supporting the Austin community. Through BMO’s own initiatives, it partners with organizations that drive social change, celebrate and support our local communities and families in providing financial wellness, and bring communities together. Through their community outreach sponsorship program with Aspire, their Zero Barriers to Business program, and their Bank at Work Initiative, they will play a key role in ensuring Austin residents have a clear path to equitable, sustainable wealth creation.

In conjunction with the organizations located within the Aspire Center, as well as those in ACT’s expansive member network, a partnership with BMO will ensure residents have access to integrated services of income support, financial coaching, and other banking products/services.

Legal Aid Chicago addresses legal areas that cover basic human needs. They have a vision that poverty will not be an impediment to justice in Cook County. Legal barriers that perpetuate poverty and inequality will be dismantled. Laws and legal systems will be open and equally effective for all who need their protection, especially those who experience unfair and disproportionately unjust treatment due to personal or community characteristics.

Their involvement with ACWI began with a partnership with Westside Health Authority in 2020, focusing on re-entry work. They offer an array of legal services and provide high quality civil legal aid to people living in poverty and other vulnerable groups. Their move to ACWI will allow them to help even more people in the community.

Meeting People Where They Are: A Holistic Approach to Building Community Wealth

By Natalie Goodin Special Projects Manager, Austin Coming Together

Programming at the Aspire Center will foster strong connections with the community, strengthen partnerships with industry leaders, and develop innovative solutions to address gaps in small business development. These efforts will also create pathways into high-demand economic sectors, advancing our workforce development goals. As we pursue this work, it is essential that our approach to engaging individuals is as robust, thoughtful, and comprehensive as our strategy for collaborating with high-level partners.

In our commitment to meeting people where they are and providing the most effective support, we recognized a broad spectrum of stability among residents. This ranges from individuals in crisis, facing unemployment or urgent basic needs, to those who are gainfully employed and actively investing in their long-term success and the well-being of the broader community.

At the heart of our programming model is a holistic approach to equitable wealth creation, which focuses on individuals. This

approach is not only comprehensive but also intentional, ensuring that each resident is met with the resources and strategies most relevant to their journey toward selfsufficiency and success.

Through this lens, we identified six core components that make up our Comprehensive Scope of Services: job/ career, financial, legal, emotional, life/ family, and aspiring. These components reflect the full range of needs for individuals striving to reach their highest potential, aligning directly with our vision for the Aspire Center.

While we recognize the importance of all six, we have prioritized job/career, financial, and legal services as foundational. These priorities guided our initial partnerships and shaped the commitments from tenant organizations at the time of our Grand Opening, laying a strong groundwork for meaningful, long-term impact.

Alongside the development of the building, tenant teams spent more than a year working together and collaboratively building this holistic programming approach. The team built a coordinated intake system to be used at the center, overhauled existing processes and procedures to streamline referrals, and together, collaboratively evaluated partnerships positioned to meet the more outlying needs of the comprehensive scope. In areas that did not have a clear program or service to connect residents with, we successfully identified new opportunities and forged new partnerships, ensuring pathways for residents.

The true innovation of this holistic approach, and the comprehensive scope of services we offer, lies in its power to inspire. It instills a sense of worth in every individual who walks through our doors, encouraging residents to envision more for themselves, their families, and their

community. It provides the motivation to dream boldly and the support to turn those dreams into reality.

We have a beautiful facility, a dedicated team, and a trusted network of partners committed to delivering impactful programming. Through this integrated and person-centered model, we aim to see more than just higher incomes and stable employment. We envision residents progressing through career pathways, setting and achieving aspirational goals such as homeownership, long-term financial planning, entrepreneurship, and civic engagement.

This freedom to dream, this freedom to aspire, can ignite a renewed sense of value, purpose, and determination. Our holistic approach represents more than a set of services; it embodies the intention and commitment behind the Aspire Center: to serve as a catalyst for transformation in the Austin community. n

COMMUNITY VIOLENCE INTERVENTION

Delivering on our promise to the community

In 2018, Austin Forward. Together. (AFT) leaders identified the need to expand violence intervention initiatives in Chicago. In 2024, AFT leaders and organizations seized an opportunity to meet this need by partnering with a citywide collaborative known as Scaling Community Violence Intervention for a Safer Chicago (SC2). Our goal is to substantially reduce the annual number of shooting incidents in Austin by 2027.

Community Violence Intervention in Austin

WHAT IS COMMUNITY VIOLENCE INTERVENTION OR CVI?

A community-based approach to addressing violence

Engages individuals most at risk of being a victim of or committing an act of gun violence

Goal is to prevent and disrupt cycles of violence and retaliation

Provides services that save lives, address trauma, provide opportunity and improve the physical, social and economic conditions that drive violence

OUR APPROACH TO CVI IN AUSTIN

We’re creating a holistic suite of services for Austinites who are most at risk of perpetrating or being a victim of violence. This includes:

Street Outreach & Victim Services

Outreach workers build relationships with those most at risk of perpetrating or experiencing gun violence. When violent incidents occur, they work with victims and perpetrators to prevent retaliation and repair harm.

Mental and Behavioral Health

Counseling

Outreach workers connect the young men and women that they work with to mental health professionals, who provide counseling, therapy, and other supports for their mental well-being.

Employment

Our Employment and Workforce programming is designed to prepare participants for the workforce through learning both traditional soft skills as well as cognitive behavioral skills to increase job retention.

Education

Outreach workers also help connect individuals who want to go back to school or further their education.

Spiritual Counseling, Mentorship, & Case Management

Counseling and connecting people at risk of violence to new resources, social networks, and spiritual knowledge is a key component of Austin’s CVI work.

Community Mobilizations

Our faith-based partners mobilize the community to show up in both proactive and reactive ways, providing public displays of solidarity for victims, families, and neighbors.

ORGANIZATION AND LEADER

BUILD Chicago

Adam Alonso

Heartland Human Care Services

David Sinski

HOPE CDC

Pastor Steve Epting

Institute for Nonviolence Chicago

Teny Gross

Jehovah Jireh Outreach Ministry #1

Pastor Jody Bady

Together Chicago

Jonathan Banks & Mark O’Halloran

What About Us Charitable Enterprises

Dorin McIntyre aka “Pastor Mac”

Westside Health fAuthority

Morris Reed

Meet Your Austin Outreach Workers

Outreach workers are the heartbeat of CVI in Austin. Their heroic actions save lives. Whether it involves responding to violent incidents late at night, caring for victims and their families when violence occurs, or helping to negotiate non-aggression agreements between groups in conflict, the job of a CVI outreach worker never stops. We wanted to introduce you to some of Austin’s best and brightest outreach workers helping to foster peace in our community.

Marcus Simpson Institute for Nonviolence Chicago, Lead Outreach Worker

I’m a Lead Outreach Worker in Austin and proud of it. I lead by example and focus on building real connections between the community. I act as the glue between communities and the organization, making sure everyone feels seen and heard. I’m passionate about what I do, and I believe I am one of the best people to do it. People in the community know and respect me because I show up and follow through, whether that means helping resolve conflict, supporting a family in crisis, or just being there when it counts. Outside of work, I’m into football, basketball when the playoffs heat up, and enjoy pro wrestling. I can’t wait for Summer Slam this year.

EdBrown

Together Chicago, Street Outreach Supervisor

I lead my team with boots on the ground. My job as Outreach Supervisor is to try and slow down any street violence. I lead with safety first. I personally connect with the perpetrators, giving them information that can help them do better with their life. I stay in tune with the streets to know what’s going on in the streets. I lead my team with grace. We move as one, to better our community and to show there is a better, safe way to live. Why do I do this? I was once running in the streets in my past life. I am a true example that demonstrates that anyone can change.

I love to eat at Jays Backyard BBQ, love hanging at Galewood Park where I play basketball with my family. I love sports and family time. I love going to Pastor Mac’s church to hear him speak.

PabloGalvez BUILD Chicago, SC2 Manager

“Gangs were everywhere when I was growing up,” says Pablo Galvez, SC2 Manager in Austin with BUILD. “I got exposed to a lot of it.” When he lost a close friend to violence and saw the impact of outreach workers in his neighborhood, he found his calling. For more than twenty years Pablo has led street outreach and violence intervention teams from the front lines, earning the trust and love of youth, mediating conflicts, answering calls in the middle of the night and never giving up on anyone. “Peace to me is a state of mind, and a way of living. It’s much harder to be in control of your emotions, and make peace,” says Pablo. “But peace is possible, one person at a time.” When not out on the streets you can find Pablo playing softball, checking on his friends, and staying close to his family.

With the release of the AFT Highlighted Agenda, ACT is going “on the road!” Our team will be on tour and available to co-host discussions about the new phase of Austin’s AFT quality-of-life plan and its vision and strategy, with block clubs, churches, community organizations, coalitions, etc. Other ways we’ll ensure to update the community on the progress of implementing the Highlighted Agenda are through newspaper sections like this, emails, and social media.

Plan Leaders

Community

Narrative

TASK FORCE CHAIRS

Kenneth Varner

Healthy Schools Campaign

Dearra Williams

Austin Coming Together

Reesheda Graham

Washington

The Kehrein Center for the Arts

STRATEGY LEADS

Suzanne McBride

Austin Talks

Cindy Gray Schneider

Spaces-n-Places

Maria Sorrell

Community Resident

Megan Hinchy

Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago

Andraya Yousfi By the Hand Club for Kids

Jai Jones

PSPC, The Chicago Community Trust and Community Resident

Adrienne Otkins

Community Resident

Michael Romaine The Culture

Keli Stewart Front Porch Arts Center

Maiya Sinclaire

The Kehrein Center for the Arts

Economic Development

TASK FORCE CHAIR

Roxanne Charles West Side Forward

STRATEGY LEADS

Erica Staley Manufacturing Renaissance

Emily Peters Jane Addams Resource Corporation

Tina Augustus

Community Resident

Melissa O’Dell Defy Ventures

Baxter Swilley Community Stakeholder

Education

TASK FORCE CHAIR

Charles Anderson

Michele Clark High School

STRATEGY LEADS

Ruth Kimble

Austin Childcare Providers Network

Cata Truss Community Resident

Housing

TASK FORCE CHAIRS

Athena Williams Oak Park Regional Housing Center

Allison McGowan Community Resident

STRATEGY LEADS

Shirley Fields Community Resident

Rosie Dawson Westside Health Authority

Public Safety

TASK FORCE CHAIRS

Bradly Johnson BUILD Inc.

Marilyn Pitchford Heartland Alliance

STRATEGY LEADS

Edwina Hamilton BUILD Inc.

Jose Abonce The Policing Project

Ruby Taylor Taproots, Inc.

Youth Empowerment

TASK FORCE CHAIR

D’elegance Lane

Community Stakeholder

STRATEGY LEADS

Aisha Oliver Root2Fruit

Helen Slade Territory NFP

Dollie Sherman

Austin Coming Together

Chris Thomas YourPassion1st

Civic Engagement

TASK FORCE CHAIR

Deborah Williams-Thurmond

D.W. Provision

Consulting Services