WednesdayJournal_121416

W E D N E S D A Y

December 14, 2016 Vol. 35, No. 17 ONE DOLLAR

JOURNAL of Oak Park and River Forest

Huskies defeat Lions Sports, page 38

@O @OakPark

Marshall Field building proposals in limbo

Plans for Bank of America, Harken Health appear stalled, dead, respectively

By TIMOTHY INKLEBARGER Staff Reporter

ver ginkgo trees.

The couple is no stranger to the world of high-stakes philanthropy, but their most recent act of charity may rank among their most intimate.

Last week, St. Giles School, located at

The one-block stretch of commercial space at Harlem and Lake, starting with the former Marshall Field building, has struggled for years to attract the kind of retail storefront businesses Oak Park leaders would like to see in a downtown area — businesses that not only serve local Oak Parkers but attract shoppers regionally and produce lucrative sales tax revenue for the village.

Now it appears that plans for two nonconforming businesses approved for the retail business district — which would have been located in the former Field’s building at 1144 Lake St. — have either stalled or been cancelled completely.

Nicholas Karris, owner of Water Tower Realty, which owns the Marshall Field building, appeared twice before the Oak Park Board of Trustees this year seeking variances from the local zoning ordinance. He was given approval by the board to locate a Bank of America branch and, separately, a health insurance provider, known as Harken Health, in the building that has sat empty since Borders bookstore left in 2011.

Those two businesses are nonconforming in the downtown commercial corridor because the lo-

See ST. GILES on page 15

See MARSHALL FIELD‘S on page 17

WILLIAM CAMARGO/Staff Photographer

MAKES YOU WANNA JUMP: Buoyant St. Giles students react to the announcement of a $1 million donation by Jack and Peggy Crowe during a short break in class on Dec. 9.

St. Giles receives $1 million donation The Jack and Peggy Crowe Catholic Education Fund will go toward scholarships

By MICHAEL ROMAIN Staff reeporter

Google search Jack and Peggy Crowe and among the first results to turn up are photos taken of the couple at various benefit galas, balls and high society shindigs.

There they are, Jack donning a tuxedo and Peggy some fur number that regally drapes her small frame, at an opening night performance at the Lyric Opera in Chicago in 2011. Here, at a benefit gala in Chicago that surpassed its $1 million fundraising goal. There in New York City at a benefit ball decorated with sil-

NEW YEARʼS EVE LIVE MUSIC & SPECIAL MENU Reserve at mayadelsol.com

708.358.9800 | 144 s oak park ave

2

Wednesday Journal, December 14, 2016

OAKPARK.COM | RIVERFOREST.COM

Every Story Deserves a Great Beginning.

Naturally.

The Alternative Birthing Center at West Suburban Medical Center gives mothers more choices –– from nitrous oxide for pain control to water births.

Our certified nurse midwives and staff provide a safe, highly personalized experience for your and your family. We also offer round-the-clock obstetrics and anesthesiology.

And should the need arise, neonatal experts from Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago are always available.

Begin your story your way at the Alternative Birthing Center.

To learn more, visit WestSubMC.com/NaturalBirth or call (866) 938-7256.

Client ID: WSMC Component: 10.25x11.33 Space Ad WSMC 10.25x11.33 Nayurally 10.25x11.33 Space Ad 012116.indd Project Number: WSMC012116 Colors: cmyk1

Flat Size: 10.75x11.83 Finished Size: 10.25x11.33

1/21/16 3:01 PM

Wednesday Journal, December 14, 2016

OAKPARK.COM | RIVERFOREST.COM

I N S I D E

R E P O R T

Rush Oak Park named a top hospital Rush Oak Park Hospital has been named one of 56 top general hospitals in the nation by the hospital watchdog nonprofit Leapfrog Group.

Rush was among 115 hospitals recognized – in the categories of children’s hospitals, general hospitals, rural hospitals and teaching hospitals – by the group, which surveys hospitals across the nation for hospital performance in the areas of safety, surgical outcomes, maternity care and leadership.

Only 10 hospitals in Illinois were given a top hospital award by Leapfrog.

Bruce Elegant, president and CEO of Rush Oak Park, said in a press release that the award “shows the deep commitment of our team of clinicians and staff who continue to deliver highquality and compassionate care for the community we serve.”

The hospital noted that Leapfrog gave Rush an “A” grade for safety at the hospital, although it was among one of several factors considered by Leapfrog in giving the award.

“Providing this level of care to pa-

tients in and around Oak Park requires motivation and drive from every team member,” Leapfrog president and CEO Leah Binder said.

In November, Rush Oak Park also was a recipient of the Pinnacle of Excellence Award and the Guardian of Excellence Award for Quality by Press Ganey Associates, which measures patient experience.

The local hospital also was honored in April with Magnet status by the American Nurses Credentialing Center, which is part of the American Nurses Association, for excellence in nursing and quality patient care.

Timothy Inklebarger

WILLIAM CAMARGO/Staff Photographer

Anxiety antidote Kenia Balboa cuddles with Bodi, a therapy dog brought to Dominican University on Dec. 12, to help students release stress during finals week.

In Santa visit, a lesson in diversity

Oak Park resident Pem Hessing and Suburban Unity Alliance Director Anthony Clark teamed up to host a toy drive and holiday stuffing event on Saturday at the Oak Park Public Library.

More than 100 people donated toys, toiletries, gloves, hats and other items that will go to Housing Forward and Mercy Home.

The children at Saturday’s effort, which featured hot chocolate, holiday music and donuts, also enjoyed a surprise visit from an African American Santa. The event, Clark said, is the first of what he hopes to be many more to come.

Michael Romain

Courtesy of Hephzibah Home

RELIEF PITCH: Former Chicago Cubs pitcher Kerry Wood visited children at Hephzibah Home earlier this month, signing autographs, decorating holiday cookies and hobnobbing with the kids and staff. Wood is known for tying the Major League record of striking out 20 hitters in one game. Hephzibah Home serves children who were removed from situations of abuse and neglect.

“With the children giving you a tour, you get a look at their daily life and what’s offered to them here,” Wood said in a news release. “I’m so glad a place like this exists. It’s amazing.”

3

4

Wednesday Journal, December 14, 2016

Community Renewal Christmas Concert Saturday, Dec. 17 at 7:30 p.m., Euclid Avenue United Methodist dist Church: The Community Renewal Chorus reimagines the Christmas story in “To Certain Poor or Shepherds.”

Works by Charpentier and Schubert bert and carol arrangements from Renaissance to Gospel plus standbys like “It’s the Most Wonderful derful Time of the Year.” Admission is $20 ($15 senior citizens and students). Tickets can be purchased rchased at the door. For additional information, n, please visit www.crchorus.org.

OAKPARK.COM | RIVERFOREST.COM

Dark Side of the Yule

On civil liberties

Friday, Dec. 16 at 8 p.m., Dominican University Performing Arts Center: Classic Rock meets Christmas with Classical Blast. Admission is $15. Visit events.dom.edu/dark-side-yule.

7900 W. Division St., River Forest.

Sunday, Dec. 18 at 10 a.m., Third Unitarian: Rachel Murphy, a legal fellow with thee American Civil Liberties Union, will speakk on current challenges to civil liberties looking ahead to a new administration. The presentation will be followed by a question-and-answer session. Third Unitarian is located at 301 N. Mayfield, two blocks east and one block south of Austin Boulevard and Lake Street (Green Line). For more information, phone 773-626-9385 or visit www.

HHolidays a cappella

A weekend of theater eater

Sunday, Dec. 18 at 4 p.m., Pilg Pilgrim Congregational Church:

Friday, Dec. 16; Saturday, Dec. 17;; and Sunday, Dec. 18 at 7:30 p.m., Julian Auditorium: uditorium: The CAST performing arts program att Julian Middle School will present a Festival of Theater, ater, three plays on three nights: The Westing Game ame on Friday, Playground Mahabharata onn Saturday, and Crunch Time on Sunday..

Tickets ($10 for adults; $5 for studentss 13 and under and seniors) may be purchased in advance through the CAST website, www.op97.org/CAST hy or at the door. For more, contact Kathy p97.

Simon at 708-524-7848 or ksimon@op97. org. 416 S. Ridgeland Ave., Oak Park.

Chicag Chicago a cappella invites members of the communit community to come together for songs of peace and hop hope from around the world. Tickets range from $15 to $43. Call 773-281-7820 or visit www.chicagoacappella.org/concerts. Pilgrim www.chicago Church is located at 460 Lake St.

Dec. 14-21

Wine and Cheese Tasting

Sunday, Dec. 18 at 4 p.m., Novo in Oak Park: Novo, located in downtown Oak Park’s historic Hemingway District, hosts a one-hour tasting event that features four cheeses and eight wines. The fee to participate is $25 per person. Reservations may be made by calling the restaurant at 708-628-3454. Novo is located at 734 Lake St. For more, call 708-628-3454 or visit NovoOakPark.com.

thirdunitarianchurch.org.

BIG WEEK An Evening of Tzedakah & Sadaqah

Oak Park Funnies Thursday, Dec. 15 from 7:30 to 9 p.m., Connolly’s Public House, Oak Park: Clean, convenient comedy hosted by Chris Hauri (you’ve seen her at Olive & Well and Ten Thousand Villages) and featuring Doug Deuchler, theater critic for Wednesday Journal; film raconteur Doug Stevenson of iO and Second City, Amanda Cohen, who has a new bit on answering phones (when they were real phones!) and Barbara Legan with a new holiday story. Baby Boomer Humor and a laugh break for the holidays. Doors open at 7. Cover is $5. For more info, contact Chris at 708-533-2888. 1109 South Blvd., Oak Park.

Saturday, Dec. 17 from 5 to 8:30 p.m., Oak Park Temple: “Kindness, Empathy & Respect: What does God want from us?” is an evening of learning, sharing and service, co-sponsored by the Muslim Leadership Academy and Oak Park Temple. Come at 5 p.m. for the optional observance of a Havdalah ceremony, followed by a discussion of the expectations for living a Jewish or Muslim life. The service project will be making “blessing bags” for the homeless. This is a family-style interfaith event. Kids of all ages are welcome. Prof. Omer Mozaffer and Rabbi Max Weiss lead the adult session. 1235 Harlem Ave., Oak Park.

Advent lecture Wednesday, Dec. 14, reception 5:45 p.m., lecture 6:30-7:30, Q&A 7:30-8: The St. Luke Parish Transformation team hosts a talk by one of the foremost authorities in biblical studies, Rev. James McIlhone on how the Bible and its different translations came to be, what makes up the Canon of Sacred Scripture, the concept of Inerrancy, and any questions you have. Free admission. St. Luke School Gym, corner of Lake Street and Ashland Avenue, River Forest.

Becoming Dr. Ruth Sunday, Dec. 18 at 3 p.m., Nineteenth Century Club: The Free Readers Ensemble will perform the play Becoming Dr. Ruth, by Mark St. Germain. Everyone knows Dr. Ruth Westheimer from her career as a pioneering radio and television sex therapist. Few know the rest of the story. Directed by ensemble member and co-founder, Paulette Cary, this performance features well-known Oak Park actor Mercita DeMonk.

Parking is free on Sundays in the high-rise just south of the Nineteenth Century building. 178 Forest Avenue in Oak Park.

CALENDAR EVENTS ■ As you’ve likely noticed, our

Calendar has changed to Big Week.

Fewer items, higher profile. If you would like your event to be featured here, please send a photo and details by noon of the Wednesday before it needs to be published. We can’t publish everything, but we’ll do our best to feature the week’s highlights.

Email calendar@wjinc.com.

Jazz Christmas Carols Friday, Dec. 16 at 7:10 p.m., Good Shepherd Lutheran Church: Jazz Prayer Christmas carols is a way to unwind from the stress of the holiday season.

Instrumental riffs will feel like the Charlie Brown Christmas. Pre-performance refreshments start at 7:10. Stay after to interact with the musicians. Good Shepherd hosts monthly live jazz programs on the third Friday of each month. The non-denominational events create an opportunity for reflection and meditation in an ambiance of quality jazz music. All are welcome. Good Shepherd (www.GoodShepherdLC. org) is located at 611 Randolph (corner of East and Randolph) in Oak Park. There is no admission fee, but free-will donations to support the jazz concert program are appreciated.

Wednesday Journal, December 14, 2016

OAKPARK.COM | RIVERFOREST.COM

ART BEAT

‘C

A euphoric euphonious Tuba Christmas

arol of the Bells’ is my favorite,” said Jax Bukalski, seventh-grader at Brooks Middle School. What seem like ordinary holiday songs represent a special opportunity for a group of musicians at Brooks, as well as Julian Middle School and OPRF High School: Tuba Christmas.

“I played ‘Carol of the Bells’ in elementary school, but I played it on my trumpet,” he said. “Now I get to do it on euphonium!” Bukalski is one of five Photo by Michelle Dybal trumpet players from Brooks who are trying a new instrument, playing eu- OPRF high school musicians are student-led as phonium for the annual Tuba Christthey rehearse for Tuba Christmas, which takes mas event.

Two other seventh-grade trumpeters place on Dec. 17. chimed in.

Tuba Christmas is in its 43rd year and is “It’s a thrill to play another instrument held across the U.S. and internationally. Chiand you don’t get to play this low.” The cago’s Tuba Christmas is on Saturday, Dec. other adds, “I could do this every week!” 17 at the Palmer House Hilton at 12:30 p.m.

A euphonium is a large tenor brass instru- in the Grand Ballroom. Woolley emphasizes ment, whereas a tuba is for playing bass that the room is beautiful and the acoustics notes. Both are needed at Tuba Christmas are really great. to play the different parts of compositions.

But for the local musicians, Tuba ChristBrooks’ director of bands, Jayme Barnard, mas starts in Oak Park at the Harlem/Lake purchased some inexpensive euphoniums Green Line station at 8:30 a.m. From there, on eBay years ago to give more students the the musicians go to area businesses such chance to participate. as Old Navy and The Gap, then on to River Euphonium and tuba students also get a Forest to Starbucks, Men’s Warehouse, and chance to do something different. As one Whole Foods, wrapping by 9:15. This is part Brooks eighth-grade tuba player pointed of what Woolly likes about Tuba Christmas. out, they are usually in the background “You’re out in the community,” she said, of the band. This concert changes that. As “playing your instrument in Old Navy. WithMitch Brumirski, seventh-grade euphoout Tuba Christmas, you’d never do anynium player, put it, “It’s really fun because thing like that.” you get to play the melody.”

The idea of playing locally before heading At the middle schools, the band directo Chicago started 12 years ago. Anywhere tors lead the students through practices. At OPRF, the rehearsals are student-led. The from 30 to 50 local musicians may take part. group there plays tubas and euphoniums Besides the students, the band directors also but also baritones, which are the equivalent play along, and there are some alums and of a euphonium made for marching. Like community members who join in.

Once they spread joy here, they take the el the middle schools, this is an opportunity for students who usually play other instru- downtown, large instruments in tow, for rehearsal and to perform with, on average, 400 ments to join in the fun. other musicians of all skill levels, including At the high school rehearsal, the drumheads in the band room vibrate with the professionals. A retired commander of the low brass tones of “We Wish You a Merry U.S. Army Band directs the performance.

Christmas.” Leading the group are junior Farnham lights up at the memory of past Gracie Farnham and senior Lydia Woolley. concerts at the Palmer House.

“It’s overwhelming performing with that During rehearsal, the students played and were directed by Farnham while Woolley many musicians playing the same instrugave suggestions between pieces. The group ments, where in band at school, there is usuis interactive, chiming in on what they want ally, a max of two tubas,” she said. “When to play next and having a laugh now and we’re all playing at Tuba Christmas, I feel then. Farnham, a tuba player, is a longtime the vibration inside. The sound is really gorparticipant in Tuba Christmas, having done geous.”

The concert is free; seating is limited. it for six years. She likes having the chance Non-perishable food donations are requestto lead.

“No matter what level you’re at,” she said, ed for the Greater Chicago Food Depository. “you can do this and I’ve enjoyed reaching out to musicians at all levels.”

Michelle Dybal

HAPPY

s y a d i l o H From Your Friends at

Forest Park National Bank & Trust Co.

7348 West Madison Street 7331 West Roosevelt Road 708-222-2800 | forestparkbank.com

101 S. Marion St., Oak Park 708.383.9695

5

6

Wednesday Journal, December 14, 2016

OAKPARK.COM | RIVERFOREST.COM

Notice of Proposed Property Tax Increase for Oak Park and River Forest High School District 200 I. A public hearing to approve a proposed property tax levy increase for Oak Park and River Forest High School District 200 for 2016 will be held on December 22, 2016 at 7:30 p.m. in the Board Room of the high school. Any person desiring to appear at the public hearing and present testimony to the taxing district may contact Tod Altenburg, Chief School Business Official, at 201 N. Scoville Ave. at (708) 434-3264.

II. The corporate and special purpose property taxes extended or abated for 2015 were $65,581,941 .

The proposed corporate and special purpose property taxes to be levied for 2016 are $66,620,000.

This represents a 1.58% increase over the previous year.

III. The property taxes extended for debt service and public building commission leases for 2015 were $0.

The estimated property taxes to be levied for debt service and public building commission leases for 2016 are $0.

This represents a 0% increase from the previous year.

IV. The total property taxes extended or abated for 2015 were $65,581,941.

The estimated total property taxes to be levied for 2016 are $66,620,000. This represents a 1.58% increase over the previous year.

How to Keep in Touch with Us in 3 Steps

1

2

3

Sign up for Twitter!

Follow us on Twitter

Get your daily dose of your local news straight from home!

twitter.com/OakPark

Eco-successes touted at PlanIt Green forum

By CASSANDRA WEST Contributor

Community solar is on its way to Oak Park and River Forest. More than 1,200 Oak Park households, 18 institutions and all District 97 schools are composting their food scraps. Rush Oak Park Hospital now has a healing garden filled with native plants.

Maple Place at corner of Chicago and Maple avenues will be the first LEED-registered luxury condominium building in all of the western suburbs. Third-graders in River Forest want to see their communities work harder for cleaner air.

These were among the updates and revelations shared when more than 60 sustainability leaders, eco-champions and municipal officials from Oak Park and River Forest gathered on Thursday morning, Dec. 8, at the 19th Century Club.

The occasion was PlanItGreen’s fifth Annual Institutional Leaders Forum, put on to highlight the progress that has been made toward achieving specific environmental goals over the preceding 12 months. Oak Park and River Forest leaders get time to proclaim their eco-successes along with representatives from schools, nonprofits and grass-roots groups.

All together in one room, they also shared ideas on collaborating across communities and institutions to drive systemic change.

Taking note of the post-election “political climate” that has given rise to “a time of uncertainty” nationally, speakers stressed the importance of local eco-activism.

“So much of what happens with sustainability happens at the local level, happens at state level,” said Gary Cuneen, executive director of Seven Generations Ahead, before representatives of 15 projects and initiatives shared brief success snapshots. “It gives us the impetus collectively to dig deeper and try hard to figure out ways to blend economic development with environmental conservation and social equity.”

Green leaders in both villages have been advocating for community solar, which now looks pretty much assured after the recent passage and signing by Gov. Rauner of the Future Energy Jobs Bill, Mark Burger, a solar consultant for PlanItGreen, told the audience. Expect first installation sometime in 2018, he said.

But implementing that renewable energy platform will require some creative thinking, said Kristin Carlson Vogen, president & CEO of the Oak Park-River Forest Community Foundation. The many old-growth trees that residents love create a challenge for solar. “All that shade can keep from absorbing the sun’s energy,” Vogen said.

In his remarks, Oak Park Mayor Anan Abu-Taleb shared the village’s 2016 environmental accomplishments:

■ Nearly 11 million gallons of water saved through water-saver kits distributed to public.

■ Nearly $300,000 in disposal fees saved by diverting almost half of residential waste from landfills.

■ About 130,000 pounds of electronics recycled from nearly 3,000 households.

■ More than 20,000 pounds of used paint, clothing and paper collected from nearly 1,000 households.

■ Nearly 1,600 tons of yard waste and food scraps composted from 1,000 households, 18 institutions.

And next year, Abu-Taleb said, “Oak Park will step up its green game.” A new contract with Waste Management will offer safer disposal of common hazardous household waste such as garden chemicals, automotive fluids, household cleaners and electronic items.

River Forest Village President Cathy Adduci said the village’s environmental practices have become more visible in the last two years. River Forest became the second community, after Oak Park, to offer curbside composting. It also installed permeable pavers in its alleys and a commuter parking lot to control storm water, switched to LED lighting, and has been an active supporter of the One Earth Film Festival.

Adduci said a presentation she gave earlier this year to third-graders at Lincoln School in River Forest caused her to see why the village needs to do more on the sustainability front. When she asked the students what they wanted to see done in the village, their answers took her aback. They wanted to see less litter and more efforts to improve air quality. The moral of that story, she said, shows “why we need to do more about environmental and sustainable issues. And River Forest will.”

There’s a push to make that happen. Passionate River Forest residents who have led multiple eco projects want to see sustainability fully integrated into village affairs.

They may soon get their wish.

“The village is looking at making its Sustainability Committee more into a permanent commission,” Adduci said. “Look for more on that next year.”

Wednesday Journal, December 14, 2016

OAKPARK.COM | RIVERFOREST.COM

ARTFUL URBAN RESIDENCES IN THE HEART OF OAK PARK

Single-level 3 bedroom +den residences $649,900 –$899,900

Help support our friends in need this holiday season by donating canned goods at our sales center for the Oak Park River Forest Food Pantry.

VISIT OUR NEW SALES CENTER! Open daily 12–6pm • 805 Lake Street in Oak Park

Frank Vihtelic

708.386.1810__ fvihtelic@jamesonsir.com

DistrictHouseOakPark.com

7

8

Wednesday Journal, December 14, 2016

OAKPARK.COM | RIVERFOREST.COM

River Forest advances Lake and Lathrop project Keystone Ventures submits redevelopment application following extension

By TIMOTHY INKLEBARGER Staff Reporter

The proposed mixed-use development at the corner of Lake Street and Lathrop Avenue in River Forest is moving forward with the developer, Keystone Ventures, submitting a long-awaited redevelopment application.

The project, which would bring a fivestory, mixed-use building across three lots to the corner of Lake and Lathrop, appeared to be in limbo earlier this year, when village trustees gave Tim Hague, principal of Keystone Ventures, a 90-day extension to submit the development application.

Hague, who was named as the preferred developer of the project in 2010, did not return phone calls requesting an interview.

River Forest Village Administrator Eric Palm told Wednesday Journal that village staff has begun reviewing the application and identified steps to come, including a traffic study and details concerning how the project would be financed.

Keystone, Palm said, did submit a detailed fiscal impact study that projects tax revenue expected from the project, along with costs to the village. “[The fiscal impact study] looks at it from a global perspective and what expenses it generates for the municipality,” Palm said.

Courtesy Keystone Ventures

KEYSTONE MILESTONE: Keystone Ventures has submitted its redevelopment application to the village of River Forest for a mixed-use development at the corner of Lake and Lathrop. Village leaders say they are reviewing the plan that they hope will be sent to the Development Review Board sometime next year.

Palm said it is not unusual for redevelopment applications to be short on details concerning financing.

“That’s not, to me, a deal-breaker,” he said. “They’ll wind up coming into compliance with that.”

He said Hague and village staff will meet with officials from the local police and fire departments, among other interested parties, early next year to further discuss the potential impacts the project will have on River Forest.

Details of the application were not immediately available but will be released to the public as the village gets closer to send-

ing the proposal to its Development Review Board, Palm said.

“I’m pleased the development team put forth a good faith effort to try to get this application moved forward,” he said, noting that the application assumes construction of the project would begin in the summer of 2018.

“The big caveat to that is they need a letter of no further remediation from the state of Illinois,” Palm said.

That’s because the three parcels, located at 7613 and 7617 Lake and 423 Ashland, are located on land contaminated by a dry cleaner business that operated for years in the existing building.

The village already has committed $1.9 million in funds from the Lake Street Tax Increment Finance District to clean up the environmental contamination from the dry cleaner. The agreement to use TIF funds has been extended multiple times.

Hague still must purchase the two Lake Street properties. Public documents show the parcel at 423 Lake was purchased by Keystone in September.

River Forest Village President Cathy Adduci noted that the redevelopment application was “not as complete as we would normally like it,” but she was encouraged that the long-stalled project was moving forward.

She said the missing information was “not unusual.”

The Lake and Lathrop project is not the only development Keystone has planned for the block. Hague and company have been negotiating with the village for several years on another mixed-use project at the corner of Lake Street and Park Avenue.

Adduci, however, said the village has put that project on hold, so Keystone can focus on the Lake and Lathrop development. That project would be built on a village-owned parking lot.

The Lake and Lathrop development is a priority for the village over Lake and Park because of the TIF dollars committed and the added complexity associated with getting approval from environmental regulatory authorities.

“We want to get the more complex project out of the way,” she said. “That doesn’t take away the desire for Lake and Park.”

CONTACT: tim@oakpark.com

Tasty Dog flattened, District House moves forward

Developer aims to complete project by next winter

By TIMOTHY INKLEBARGER Staff Reporter

It’s been over a month since Ranquist Development Group broke ground on its 5-story mixed-use condo building at 700 Lake St., and construction teams have already completed demolition of the former Tasty Dog fast-food restaurant.

Cory Robertson, director of developer services for Jameson Sotheby’s International Realty, said the District House project – 28 luxury condominiums and 4,500 square feet of ground-level retail – is expected to be completed by late 2017 or early 2018.

“You’ll start seeing the skeleton of the building in early spring,” he said.

He says over a third of the units have sold.

Robertson, an Oak Parker who does deal analysis for developers, said District House is one of the smoothest development deals he’s ever done.

“This is one of those projects where everything went like it was planned and that almost never happens,” he said.

Robertson said Ranquist and its development partner, Campbell Coyle Real Estate, have only made a couple of minor adjustments to the project: the addition of dens and powder rooms to all 28 units. Seven of the first eight sales were for units that included dens, he said.

“It was a market indication of preference, so we went back and designed them all to have dens,” he said.

Robertson said now all 28 units include 3-bedrooms, one den and a minimum two and a half bathrooms and are selling from $650,000 to $900,000.

He said the development team already has signed letters of intent with retailers for the commercial space, but Robertson said they are not yet ready to divulge the names. He said the 14-foot-tall ceilings on the ground floor “brings new players to the table that would have otherwise looked [elsewhere] in the Hemingway District.”

PHOTOGRAPHER/Title

DISTRICT HOUSE RISING: The 5-story District House mixed-use condominium project at the corner of Lake and Euclid is moving ahead. Ranquist Development hopes to have the building occupied by late 2017 or early 2018.

Wednesday Journal, December 14, 2016

OAKPARK.COM | RIVERFOREST.COM

9

Township trustee candidate proposes new ideas

River Forest needs a fresh, open-minded approach, says Economos

By DEBORAH KADIN Contributing Reporter

It’s time for River Forest Township to start thinking long-term to meet the needs and aspirations of the community’s senior population, says Holly Economos, a candidate for township trustee.

The township needs to set out a strategic plan that would guide its future course.

They should do more publicity on what’s available and move meetings to other venues so they are easier to access and provide visibility.

Programs and services are already good, but officials may need to look at them to see if they are effective and efficient from cost and service standpoints, she added, and be open to changing them if necessary.

“We need to be open-minded. What we are doing now is fine, but there may be more effective ways of doing things. We need to check,” Economos said. “We have to ask the big questions and see where we need to expand or tweak services.”

The 56-year-old teacher assistant at Willard Elementary School is seeking a four-year term as township trustee as an independent in the April 4 election.

Economos has lived in River Forest HOLLY ECONOMOS about a decade and Candidate for township has two children, a trustee son who’s a freshman at the University of Wisconsin and a daughter who’s a junior at Oak Park and River Forest High School.

She became tuned in to seniors while playing bridge with them around the community. Economos applied to be township clerk when the position opened earlier this year but was unsuccessful. After attending different meetings and thinking about it more, she decided that running for township trustee would be a better fit because of her concerns for seniors.

One thing that surprised her was that seniors didn’t know about the township or what it did. There are ways to do that, she said. That means “getting … in your face,” she said, becoming more visible. Maybe it’s a lack of publicity. Perhaps the township trustees need to move meetings to a more centrally-located site away from the River For-

“We need to be open-minded.

What we are doing now is fine, but there may be more effective ways of doing things. We need to check.”

est Community Center on Madison Street, which may be hard for people to get to.

To find out what seniors need, Economos said she would love to be a worker bee, knock on the doors, hear the voices, see which services they use and if they are helpful.

She also would look at whether Oak Park and River Forest townships could combine programs, especially those that seniors in her community are not using. Joining programs could save some of the $110,000 that River Forest Township pays to Oak Park for programming.

Another way to save money and put that toward more programs and services is to collaborate with the village. That topic arose more than two years ago; after the village and township exchanged words over legislation on a merger, both entities sat down and agreed to work together. Since then, information on township programs and disabled parking placards can be picked up at village hall.

“Let’s find ways we can collaborate more than we already do,” she said. “We can do more.”

Economos will be running as an independent against a slate consisting of three of the four incumbent trustees: Mark Kelty, Anna Romeo and Helene Connolly. Karen Taubman, who stepped down this summer as township clerk, will run for a term as trustee. Kelty would be running for his fourth term; Romeo for her fifth.

So far, Supervisor Carla Sloan will be running unopposed for her second term, Assessor Pam Kende for her second term. Abby Schmelling who replaced Taubman as clerk, will run for a full term for that position.

FUR . . . A Holiday Gift with Presence FUNctional Fashion

Hooded Reversible Shearling & Knit Cashmere Jacket with Norwegian dyed Fox Trim

Make Someone’s Holiday REALLY HAPPY! For him or her, yourself or a very special someone, discover Chicagoland’s most extensive selection of gorgeous furs, sporty fine outerwear and awe inspiring accessories.

Stocking Stuffers to stylish coats, find the perfect gifts to make both gift giver and recipient look AMAZING! The York Holiday Collection is ON SALE NOW! Gift Ideas start at $24!

Visit: www.YorkFur.com/catalog Call for extended Holiday SALE hours.

Elmhurst City Centre 630-832-2200

Deer Park Town Center 847-550-2200

Connect: www.YorkFur.com/subscribe Furs . Shearlings . Cashmeres . Leathers . Handbags . Accessories

10

Wednesday Journal, December 14, 2016

OAKPARK.COM | RIVERFOREST.COM

Tasers for OP cops in 2017

School board candidates begin filing

The D97 and D200 board races are slowly taking shape

By MICHAEL ROMAIN Editor

With the first day of candidate filing passed, the races for seats on the elementary and high school boards are coming into focus.

As of Tuesday morning, three candidates submitted filing papers in order to run for the four open seats on the District 200 school board in the April 4 election, according to the Cook County Clerk’s office.

Business executive Craig D. Iseli, sitting board member Tom Cofsky, and current D200 board President Jeff Weissglass had all filed. Current Oak Park Public Library board President Matt Baron, who announced his intention to run late last month, had not yet filed. Sitting D200 board member Steve Gevinson, whose term is up, announced in a statement last

Village budget next year includes $90K for Tasers

week that he won’t seek re-election.

In a statement released this week, Cofsky said he offers his “continued support in executing the district’s strategic plan.”

“I have worked with the administration and board to put into place the foundations of much-needed compensation discipline,” Cofsky said. “This has started with a compensation structure for our administration while outlining a compensation philosophy to assure consistency. There remains plenty of work to do in this critical area.”

As of Tuesday morning, four candidates have submitted filing papers to run for the three open seats on the District 97 school board. Sitting D97 board President James Gates, Heather B. Claxton-Douglas, Charity Caldwell, and Bernett Deena have all filed.

Gates publicly announced his bid for re-election last week and is the only incumbent who will seek another term.

His colleagues, Amy Felton and Graham Brisben, will not run next year.

Candidates have until next Monday, Dec. 19 to turn in their filing papers.

CONTACT: michael@oakpark.com

By TIMOTHY INKLEBARGER Staff Reporter

The assault of Oak Park Police Officer Samantha Deuchler, who was struck, choked and bitten at a CTA Green Line-Metra station in September, prompted a renewed debate over whether Oak Park cops should carry Tasers.

The issue appears to have cleared a hurdle with village leaders approving $90,000 in 2017 to equip officers with the devices that cops say can protect them from dangerous individuals.

Oak Park’s police department is the only one in the area that does not currently equip officers with Tasers.

Oak Park Police Chief Anthony Ambrose said in early September that he was considering using them but could not definitively say whether cops would be car-

rying them next year. The municipal budget, however, approved on Dec. 5 by the board of trustees, states that Ambrose “has advised his intent to deploy Tasers to on-duty sworn staff, subject to the budget appropriation and proposed to improve officer safety and reduce lost work time due to injuries.”

The budget also notes that

the weapons are not intended as a shortcut for cops.

“The use of less lethal munitions, such as a Taser, are not intended to reduce time spent de-escalating a situation or negotiating with an individual to comply with the lawful directions of an officer to stop potentially dangerous behavior,” the budget states.

CONTACT: tim@oakpark.com

Sponsored Content

Health insurance nightmare: wake-up call!

By DR. INGRID LIU, Wellcome MD Family Care, Oak Park

T

he health system is getting uglier, and you are responsible for more and more of the cost. Those out-ofpocket health expenses are growing fast. More than 25 percent of American families have insurance deductibles of $5,000+ per year.

But families and small businesses can save on health care costs by teaming up with a savvy membership medical practice. If you visit a doctor a few times a year -- or if you have routine tests and scans -- it all adds up. For many, cutting these outlays can easily cover the fees at a membership practice and save much more besides. If you’re in “open enrollment” now or soon, there are even more advantages.

At my Oak Park family practice we limit the number of patients to a fraction of what’s typical, so we know them well. We can often make decisions about treatment with just a call or an email, and our patients can contact us 24/7 for that service. Most traditional practices have to insist that you come in to be seen, though, even for rather small problems -- otherwise, they won’t be paid by insurers. That costs you time and money, not to mention convenience.

Dr. Ingrid Liu

Prescriptions add up, too. I can offer free samples of pharmaceuticals on a trial basis

to see whether they are effective for the patient. Large medical practices may only make money when they issue a prescription.

Some independent and private practices like ours have arrangements with labs for a lower rate, too.

And our practice subscribes, at no cost to you, to an online service called Health Engine that analyzes your insurance to calculate ways to save out-of-pocket costs for surgery or radiology. This service also compares costs among facilities in our area, to show you to the least expensive option for the treatment you need.

For example, if you need your tonsils out I can refer you to an excellent surgeon who may practice at several different hospitals. Health Engine picks the option with the least cost for you. It sometimes contracts with the facility to provide lower costs, too.

As Dr. Eric Crall has written, “Insurance is only intended to ‘insure’ us against low probability, high-cost events. Our car insurance hasn’t spiraled out of control because we still pay for oil changes and tire rotations out-of-pocket.

So the strategy moving forward to lower cost, for both individuals and employers, is to buy a low cost monthly membership” -- like a gym membership, he adds -- “and complement that with a true catastrophic insurance plan.”

Amen.

Call 708-386-1658 to arrange a visit with Dr. Ingrid Liu at WellcomeMD, 1100 Lake St., Oak Park, and visit us at wellcomemd.com

Wednesday Journal, December 14, 2016

OAKPARK.COM | RIVERFOREST.COM

brought to you by

Let It Snow We’ll Get the Job Done!

Remember two Sundays ago, when about a half-foot of snow came down? (Much like this past Sunday!)

Courtesy of the Village of Oak Park

DEFICIT SPENDING: The Oak Park $135 million budget for 2017 spends about $2 million more than last year. Oak Park Board of Trustees members are searching for ways to eliminate the structural deficit present in 12 of the last 15 budgets.

Oak Park OKs $135 million budget, triggering tax hike

Trustees to take aim at structural budget deficit in 2017

By TIMOTHY INKLEBARGER Staff Reporter

The Oak Park Board of Trustees approved a $135 million budget for next year, but members of the board argued that the structural deficit, putting the budget $2 million higher than 2016, needs to be fixed.

The expanding budget, expected to increase the village’s portion of Oak Park’s property tax bill — about 15 percent of the overall bill — by 8.9 percent, is the result of an increase of $468,510 in the village’s contribution to the Police Pension Fund; a $2 million increase to the Firefighters Pension Fund; $400,930 in new debt service and a $2.1 million jump in general operating expenses.

The board voted 6-0 to approve the budget, with Trustee Peter Barber not present.

Though Barber did not attend the meeting, he sent a text message to Trustee Glenn Brewer stating that he would have voted against the proposal had he been able to attend.

“He just wanted to express his view that he’s not in support of the budget proposal as he wishes we had been able to consider all of the alternatives that would not result in as high an increase as we’re ending up with for our tax rate,” Brewer told the board.

Oak Park Mayor Anan Abu-Taleb was crit-

ical of the statement.

“Well, he needs to be here to express that opinion or call in,” he said after Brewer read the text.

Trustee Colette Lueck said the increased pension contributions are mandated by the state and mainly unavoidable, but the $2.1 million increase to general operating expenses should not be repeated in future budgets.

The “structural deficit” — the village has spent more money than it received in revenue for 12 of the last 15 budget cycles — occurred over a number of years, Lueck explained.

“I don’t understand how that could happen but I certainly want to ensure it doesn’t happen moving forward,” she said. “When I joined the board, it was a policy that every department, if you went over your department budget, you had to come back to the board and get approval.

“That didn’t happen,” she noted.

Lueck said the village should again require department heads to return to the board on a quarterly basis for such requests as needed. She also argued that the budget document itself does not make it easy for trustees or the public to see where spending has increased. Charts with trend lines going up or down should be included with department budget reports, so the public can see who’s spending more or less year over year.

“That way you would have a visual of your budget that would be very easy for the public to understand, as opposed to hundreds of pages which are not easy to understand,” Lueck said.

Trustee Adam Salzman said increasing

the payments to the police and fire pensions was a “difficult issue” to address but necessary. Those pensions are severely underfunded, meaning the funds only hold a fraction of the money needed to pay out full benefits. The funded status of the firefighters pension is 37 percent, while the police pension is at 51 percent.

“We’re not out of the woods in terms of the pressure on our budget and on our property tax levy due to this state situation,” he said, referencing changes to accounting practices from the state requiring greater contributions to the funds this year.

He urged the board and other taxing bodies in the village, such as the school districts, library and parks, to better coordinate before taking on major projects that would increase the tax levy moving forward.

Such an intergovernmental agreement could help save taxpayers moving forward.

“Because the pressures we face on our budget and our property tax levy are not going away, and we need to start dealing with them cooperatively,” he said.

Mayor Abu-Taleb apologized to the public for the tax increase, but said, “There was no other way to do it at this point,” due in part to mandated pension expenses, among other things.

“The village cut 20 to 25 percent of the staff about six or seven years ago; right now we are working in a very efficient manner,” AbuTaleb said. “The services we provide are expensive, and the community deserves the best possible services and we’re here to do that.”

CONTACT: tim@oakpark.com

That night, shortly after 10 o’clock, one of our subcontractors needed “to call it a night” without getting to one of our clients, a Catholic grade school.

Within 20 minutes, Scott my dad had begun McAdam Jr. an impromptu, grueling four-hour shift that included shoveling nine sets of stairs totaling 120 steps as I worked on another snow removal job. A short time later, students and staff—who had been sleeping as we got the job done—safely got their week started.

When snow comes, we can’t just let it pile up. It’s an emergency service that people have entrusted us to deal with professionally—and that includes meeting certain deadlines.

Convenience isn’t what has enabled us, since 1980, to build a snow removal and management practice across more than 400 square miles of Chicagoland. In fact, the more stressful the scenario, the greater the opportunity to come through for our clients.

So, when Monday afternoon rolled around, you can imagine how we felt when the school’s maintenance director let us know what he thought of our effort: “It looks great!”

Follow us on

2001 Des Plaines Ave. Forest Park 708-771-2299 www.mcadamlandscape.com

11

12

Wednesday Journal, December 14, 2016

OAKPARK.COM | RIVERFOREST.COM

Oak Park housing grants coordinator announces clerk bid

Gallegos promises open-door policy, greater interaction with public

By TIMOTHY INKLEBARGER

An Oak Park village government housing grants coordinator and former banker has announced her plans to run for the open village clerk seat in the April 2017 municipal election.

Elia Gallegos has spent the last eight years as coordinator for the Community Development Block Grant program. She says her experience at the village working with the public perfectly positions her for the clerk position.

Gallegos notes that as housing grant coordinator she also has worked with Oak Park’s housing-related partner agencies including the Oak Park Regional Housing Center and the Oak Park Housing Authority.

“I decided to run because as a public servant, I am passionate about what I do as an employee of the village,” she said, noting it is her first time to run for public office.

She said she would have an “open-door policy” with the public and aim to provide greater access to residents looking for infor-

mation from their municipal government.

She praised the village for recent advances in technology – village hall recently installed a new IT platform known as Village View – that has made it easier for various departments within village hall to communicate with one another and for the public to gain access to village services such as permit applications.

“The village has made great progress recently in improving customer service by making many of its services available online and simplifying procedures,” Gallegos said in a prepared statement. “I am proud to have been a part of the transition and look forward to expanding the online services offered by the village clerk’s office.”

Gallegos said in a telephone interview that additions to the village website such as an “Ask the Clerk” page, could further help customer relations with the public and improve communications.

“Communication is always going to be key,” she said, noting that the Ask the Clerk concept “would allow me to direct concerns to the appropriate directors.”

Gallegos is running as an independent candidate and did not seek the endorsement of the Village Manager Association, a local group that vets and slates candidates for

“The village has made great progress recently in improving customer service by making many of its services available online and simplifying procedures.”

ELLA GALLEGOS

Village clerk candidate

public office.

Prior to her time at the village, she spent 12 years in the banking industry, starting out as a teller with First National Bank of Chicago in 1996 and rising up through the ranks as a banker, client relations officer, mortgage processor and loan officer and ultimately transitioning to Citibank before signing on with the village.

“I’ve always been on the front lines working with customers,” she said.

Gallegos currently faces two other candidates for the position – Lori Malinski, director of development at Oak-Leyden Developmental Services, and James RobinsonParran, a professional musician.

Ella Gallegos Teresa Powell, who has served two terms as village clerk, announced earlier this year that she does not plan to run for reelection.

CONTACT: tim@oakpark.com“[There would be]

D97 examines referendum request amounts

Board narrows down to three scenarios

By MICHAEL ROMAIN Editor

Oak Park District 97 school board members are closing in on how much money they’ll request from taxpayers in a referendum that will be on the ballot during the April 4 election. The impact on tax bills could be steep.

During a Dec. 6 regular meeting, district officials narrowed down to three possible funding scenarios, all of which, they said, are determined by how large the district would want its fund balance to be five years out.

Board member Graham Brisben said the district’s fund balance is projected to drop below 25 percent of its operating expenses in 2017 — putting D97 in violation of its own financial policy. By 2018, he said, the fund balance is projected to go negative. “[There would be] nowhere to go from there without something changing,” Brisben said. “Either new revenue or drastic cost reductions.”

The first, and least expensive, referendum scenario calls for increasing the district’s operating levy to $63.3 million, an increase of $10.1 million. That would get the district’s

fund balance to a target level of 15 percent The facilities referendum would fund nonof operating expenses — still 10 percent less mandatory maintenance, such as fire alarm than the district’s policy of 25 percent. This maintenance and roof repairs, totaling scenario would entail an additional $562 for nearly $38 million between 2019 and 2021. a homeowner with a $10,000 annual tax bill.

It would also fund numerous upgrades and The second scenario would increase the renovations to district buildings, such as district’s operating levy to the expansions of Lincoln $67 million, an increase of and Longfellow, and the in$13.9 million. That would stallation of updated classget the district’s fund balroom technology, totaling ance to a target level of 30 nearly $20 million from percent of operating ex2018 to 2021. penses and would entail an District officials exadditional $770 for a homeplained that a sharp inowner with a $10,000 ancrease in the student popunual tax bill. lation has put pressure on The third scenario calls everything from programfor increasing the district’s ming needs to personnel operating levy to $69.3 milto the wear-and-tear on falion, an increase of $16 cilities. Since 2010, officials million. That would get the said, the district has been district’s fund balance to a spending at least $2 million GRAHAM BRISBEN target level of 45 percent of below the amount necesD97 board member sary to keep up with inflaoperating expenses. This tion and rising enrollment. scenario would entail an Brisben said that the disadditional $895 for a hometrict’s revenue growth has owner with a $10,000 anbeen limited by the state’s nual tax bill.

The school board is also considering “highly regressive” tendency to fund public whether to authorize a separate facilities education through local property taxes and referendum that could run in conjunction a Cook County law that strictly limits how with, or at a date later than, the April oper- much districts can tax in order to raise revenue. ating funds referendum.

“[There would be] nowhere to go from there without something changing. Either new revenue or drastic cost reductions.”

He added that the district’s surging enrollment levels further complicates matters.

Since the district’s last referendum in 2011, average daily attendance has increased by nearly 9 percent, or 486 kids — 300 more than district officials had projected. Since 2007, district officials said, average daily enrollment has increased nearly 24 percent, or 1,065 students.

“Our revenues have nothing to do with the number of kids we’re serving for the most part,” Brisben said. “So you have a flat-lining revenue situation against a surging enrollment situation.”

The school board will meet on Dec. 19 for another discussion on the referendum scenarios. District officials have until Jan. 17 to approve a referendum question and file it with the Cook County Clerk’s Office.

CONTACT: michael@oakpark.com

W E D N E S D A Y

JOURNAL of Oak Park and River Forest

To run an obituary Please contact Ken Trainor by e-mail: ktrainor@wjinc.com, or fax: 708/524-0447 before Monday at noon.

Please include a photo if possible.

Wednesday Journal, December 14, 2016

OAKPARK.COM | RIVERFOREST.COM

13

HANDCRAFTED GIFTS FROM A WONDERFUL WORLD

Bring Joy

ICY WHIRLPOOL COCKTAIL GLASS Hand-blown enchantment from West Bank

There’s Power in Code

WILLIAM CAMARGO/Staff Photographer

The Hour of Code, an international movement that allows people across the world to organize one-hour tutorials in coding for would-be techies of just about all ages, passed through Horace Mann Elementary in Oak Park on Dec. 8.

25%

OFF ONE ITEM

Multicultural collection now housed at Dole branch Former D97 center’s items available for public browsing and borrowing

By MICHAEL ROMAIN Editor

The Multicultural Center collection, formerly housed at Oak Park School District 97, has a new home inside of the Oak Park Public Library’s Dole branch, 255 Augusta Blvd.

The library hosted a public preview of the collection last month and plans on holding a formal grand opening ceremony on Jan. 27.

“More and more, we’re a global society,” said Kathleen Spale, OPPL’s assistant manager of materials services, in a statement.

“Research has shown that talking about diversity and reading books about cultures different from our own has tangible benefits.”

Founded more than 30 years ago and formerly located at Julian Middle School, the Multicultural Center collection features thousands of items — such as traditional clothing, artifacts, films and books — from around the world.

Most of the items, said library officials, will be available for library cardholders to borrow for up to four weeks and are searchable through the library’s online catalog. Some, like a rare Aztec calendar stone or a 6-foot-tall sarcophagus modeled on that of Egyptian Pharaoh Tutankhamen, are only for display.

Earlier this year, the Multicultural Cen-

ter had to move from its longtime home in Julian, where surging enrollment levels demanded more instructional space. Over the summer, the library purchased the center’s extensive collection — which its longtime sole staff member, Lynn Allen, said numbered around 15,000 items — from the school district for a nominal fee.

“Thanks to this partnership, the community will enjoy greater access to the collection’s valuable resources,” said District 97 Superintendent Carol Kelley in a statement posted on the library’s website. “It will also further foster critical conversations about topics such as race, ethnicity, and diversity, and help teach people of all ages about the importance of cultural sensitivity, tolerance, civic action, and mutual respect.”

“From all perspectives — the district’s perspective, the library’s perspective — this is a win-win,” said D97 board President James Gates during an interview last week.

“You’re going to see the items showcased in a way that they hadn’t been able to be showcased in the past. It makes it much easier for the community to access.”

Most of the collection will be organized by continent, with sub-categories, such as human rights, family diversity and immigration.

“Having access to unique, three-dimensional artifacts — tactile items families can interact with — will create memorable opportunities for learning, especially with children,” said Spale.

CONTACT: michael@oakpark.com

WITH THIS COUPON

121 N. Marion St Oak Park 708-848-4572 Use this logo for reductions only, do not print magenta. Do not reduce this logo www.tenthousandvillages.com/oakpark more than 35%. Magenta indicates the clear area, nothing should print in this space.

You may reduce the logo to 30% without the tag and strap lines.

Color of Wood Block Motif critical match to Pantone 1805.

Letters print Pantone Process Black.

Offer valid at the Oak Park store until 12/21/16. Not valid with other offers or discounts, purchase of gift cards, Oriental rugs, Traveler’s Finds items or consumables. One coupon per store per customer.

For Best Selection, Call & Order Ahead!

We’ll be offering a Variety of Items for your Holiday Entertaining, including • All Butter Cookie Trays and 1 pound Boxes • Large Christmas Sugar Cookies • Stollen • 1 pound Rumball Trays, • Yule Logs • Christmas Tree Cakes • Fruit Cakes • plus our Everyday Fresh Baked Goods

We’ll be open on Saturday/Christmas Eve 5am - 3pm 904 South Oak Park Ave. | Oak Park, IL 60304 | 708/383-1712 We’ll be closed for Winter Vacation 12/25/16 - 1/09/17.

We will reopen on Tuesday, January 10 th.

14

Wednesday Journal, December 14, 2016

OAKPARK.COM | RIVERFOREST.COM

SHOP FOR YOUR FAVORITE

CHICAGO CUBS FANATIC AT

1024 NORTH BOULEVARD WWW.CAREFULPEACH.COM

Wednesday Journal, December 14, 2016

OAKPARK.COM | RIVERFOREST.COM

15

ST. GILES

Unprecedented give from page 1 1034 Linden Ave. in Oak Park, announced that they received a $1 million donation from the Crowes. The couple, who currently lives in Chicago, both attended the Catholic school and were married at St. Giles Catholic Church. Jack Crowe is the cousin of Wednesday Journal columnist Jack Crowe.

Beth Linnen, the school’s director of development, explained that the Crowes, who couldn’t be reached for comment, were motivated to make their unprecedented donation after a recent visit to their alma mater.

“They came for a visit and they loved seeing the kids in the classroom,” she said. “I think they just were tickled by the kids and what we’re doing here.”

The unprecedented donation, the largest in the school’s history, will go toward the creation of the Jack and Peggy Crowe Catholic Education Fund, which will help provide “need-based tuition assistance to families who may not otherwise be able to send their children to St. Giles School,” according a statement released by the school.

“We are thrilled and grateful to the Crowes for their generosity,” said Linnen,.

“Through the Catholic Education Fund, the Crowes are giving back to help other families receive a Catholic education like they did. The future of Catholic education depends on this kind of support from alumni of our schools.”

According to school officials, the number of families who need assistance with tuition has increased sharply in recent years, which has required school officials “to make difficult decision about allocating the historically limited funds available for assistance,” the statement reads.

Nancy Zver, St. Giles’ principal, said the recent donation will allow the school to expand its purpose.

“Our mission is to partner with families and provide a high quality Catholic education to all who desire one,” Zver said. “In the past our resources have limited the number of families we were able to support. … This visionary gift … will help the school mission be realized for many more dedicated families long into our future.”

There are currently 470 students enrolled in preschool through eighth grade at St. Giles. Tuition is around $5,500 a year for each child. The Crowes’ donation will allow the school to award up to $50,000 a year for new tuition assistance, district officials said in the statement.

In an interview last Friday, Zver said the $50,000 is the anticipated interest that the Crowes’ donation is expected to generate.

Linnen said that the school receives around $300,000 a year in donations, most of that, she added, coming from families who are already paying tuition. She said that the school also relies on major donors, many of them alumnae, who give up to $10,000 a year.

WILLIAM CAMARGO/Staff Photographer

HIP, HIP: St. Giles students celebrate the announcement of the Crowes’ $1 million gift.

Many of the students stand to benefit from the donation, which will go toward scholarships.

And at the Altenheim, you’ll be able to protect it with rent that is reasonable.

But the Altenheim is so much more… it is surrounded with beautiful grounds and wildlife, seniors who look out for one another and apartment selections and activities to suit your lifestyle.

You’ll be as happy as a lark here; come visit us to find out why.

Arborwood 2 bedroom apartments now available.

7824 West Madison Street Forest Park, IL 60130 708.366.2206 www.thealtenheim.com

For sale

by owner Submitted photos

FULL-CIRCLE: Jack and Peggy Crowe, bottom left, both attended St. Giles School and were married at the parish. Middle, a photo of Jack’s graduating class of 1942.

It helps that St. Giles, unlike many other Catholic institutions across the country, doesn’t appear to be going anywhere anytime soon.

This summer, St. Edmund Catholic School in Oak Park closed its doors after roughly a century in operation due to what the Arch-

diocese of Chicago described as declining enrollment and fiscal difficulties.

“Prior to this [donation], we were very stable,” said Zver. “The parish has no debt, we have just over 470 students and so we’re considered a very healthy Catholic school.”

CONTACT: michael@oakpark.com

643-3 Ontario St, Oak Park $175,000 LIGHT AND AIRY 1 Bedroom/one bath unit in vintage Prairie /John VanBergen building at Ontario and Linden, Linden Landmark Condominiums. This unit has original finished woodwork throughout including bathroom, enclosed sun porch and kitchen porch, rear deck and stairs to landscaped generous yard, storage and laundry rooms in well maintained basement. Generous living and dining rooms are divided by original leaded glass doors on four bookcases. Kitchen has Poggenpohl cabinetry, 2015 new Liebherr built in refrig/freezer, new DW, cooktop, oven within last 6 years; new casement windows installed in 2008. Parking rented off alley next door.

For sale by owner: 630-215-6213.

See LindenLandmark.org

16

Wednesday Journal, December 14, 2016

OAKPARK.COM | RIVERFOREST.COM

LASER AVAILABLE FOR FUNGAL NAILS

RIVER FOREST

• Mention this ad for FREE initial consultation (new patients only) • Medicare covers shoes for diabetics

YOUTH BASEBALL SOFTBALL

REGISTER NOW!

Happy Feet... begin with gentle, friendly care for your feet

Registration ends February 1st.

Late fees apply after the 1st Louis J. Chi, D.P.M.

Mary M. DiSomma, D.P.M.

Ruth A. Chi, D.P.M.

Open Monday-Saturday • Free Initial Exam for Laser Fungal Nails

www.disomma.com Register online at RFYBS.COM FHS_2015_JournalAd_Oct_R4.pdf

1

10/14/15

9:58 AM

708-383-5554

Most Insurances & PPO’s Accepted Outpatient Foot Surgery Affiliated with Rush Oak Park Hospital

Get the

Fenwick Friar Experience!

C

Entrance Exam

M

Y

Saturday, January 14, 2017 at 8 a.m.

CM

at Fenwick High School

MY

Students MUST take the Entrance Exam at Fenwick in order to be considered for admission.

CY

CMY

K

Fenwick graduates include a Skylab astronaut, Heisman Trophy winner, general counsel to two U.S. presidents, a former governor of Illinois, a Pulitzer Prize winner, numerous CEOs of Fortune 500 companies, professional athletes, and many recognized leaders in education, medicine and law.

FENWICK HIGH SCHOOL

505 Washington Blvd | Oak Park, IL 60302 fenwickfriars.com

A Dominican College Preparatory High School Established in 1929

Wednesday Journal, December 14, 2016

OAKPARK.COM | RIVERFOREST.COM

MARSHALL FIELD’S Projects in limbo from page 1 zoning ordinance aims to attract retail businesses and restaurants that bring shoppers to the district, rather than businesses that provide services but don’t sell anything and don’t generate sales tax dollars.

Over the last two years, a handful of new businesses have popped up along Lake between Harlem and Marion, some of which business leaders have praised and others not so much.

The announcement in late November by Clark Street Real Estate that Target would be the anchor retail tenant of its 271-unit, mixed-use development, Elevate Oak Park, expected to open in 2017, has potentially changed the dynamic of the corner. The space on the north side of the Field’s building that would have been occupied by the health-care provider recently appeared on the sublet market, which suggests that Harken secured a lease with Karris at the location but decided to pull out.

A Harken spokesman declined requests for an interview but released a statement by email which neither confirmed nor denied that the group had reversed its decision to locate in the building.

“Harken Health is focused on expanding our innovative model of pairing health insurance with access to relationship-based

File

MARSHALL FIELD’S STALLED?: Water Tower Realty has not responded to requests for an interview on the status of two proposed businesses — Harken Health and Bank of America — that would occupy the ground floor space of the former Border’s bookstore at 1144 Lake St. care to more businesses throughout Chicago during 2017,” reads a statement from Jeff Shoemate, chief marketing and communications officer for Harken. “With that in mind, we are listening closely to our current and potential business members as we finalize new Harken Health Center locations for the coming year. We are excited to announce a new location opening in Skokie next year and will share additional information as more Health Center locations are finalized.”

The Bank of America branch, which was expected to open on the Lake Street side of

the Marshall Field building, also appears stalled. Diane Wagner, a spokesman for Bank of America, said the bank still is conducting due diligence on the location but could not say definitively if the bank still plans to open a branch at the location.

Both deals are private, so the village’s local business development organization, the Oak Park Economic Development Corporation, has had little to do with the proposals. But John Lynch, OPEDC executive director, said he has heard that the Bank of America deal is on hold.

“It’s our understanding that Bank of

America is taking a close look at all their potential new location announcements,” Lynch said in a telephone interview. “My understanding is that our location was still in the mix of potential locations.”

If the Harken Health and Bank of America deals fall through, it wouldn’t be the first time a nonconforming tenant at the location pulled out after being given approval by the village to occupy the site. Karris was given the OK to locate an Ultimate Fighting Championship Gym at the Harken Health site in 2014, but the business never opened.

Getting another zoning variance for a nonconforming business could prove increasingly difficult with the announcement that Target is opening across the street next year. Karris has argued that it has been difficult to find a retail tenant to occupy the former Border’s space.

The OPEDC executive board declined to give a recommendation for the bank proposal in July. Lynch told the Oak Park Board of Trustees at that time that the organization’s executive board was split on the project, with half preferring a retail store or restaurant in that location.

“There were certainly folks who look at the [business district] and who feel very strongly that a retail use or a restaurant use or a café or a store, traditional retail, is a desirable use there,” Lynch told the board of trustees in July. “I think many of us would agree with that. In an ideal world, that would be the case.”

CONTACT: tim@oakpark.com

NOTICE OF PROPOSED PROPERTY TAX INCREASE OAK PARK ELEMENTARY SCHOOL DISTRICT 97

Thrive Counseling Center, located in the heart of Oak Park, is OUR Community Mental Health Center. Hope, resilience and recovery form the heart of our programs and services.

Thrive provides…

• counseling for youth and adults • psychiatric care and medication management • 24/7 crisis intervention • in-home counseling for older adults • case management and supportive housing • psycho-social recovery day program • stress reduction courses To learn more or to make an appointment, please visit

www.thrivecc.org. or call 708-383-7500

17

I. The corporate and special purpose property taxes extended or abated for 2015 were $ 53,130,148.

The adopted corporate and special purpose property taxes to be levied for 2016 are $70,000,000. This represents a 31.75 % increase over the previous year.

II. The property taxes extended for debt service and public building commission leases for 2015 were $8,210,790.

The estimated property taxes to be levied for debt service and public building commission leases for 2016 are $ 7,931,413. This represents a 3.4% decrease under the previous year.

III. The total property taxes extended or abated for 2015 were $ 61,340,938.

IV. The estimated total property taxes to be levied for 2016 are $77,931,413. This represents a 27.04 % increase over the previous year.

18

Wednesday Journal, December 14, 2016

OAKPARK.COM | RIVERFOREST.COM

SPONSORED CONTENT

Getting Down To Business

with the Oak Park - River Forest Chamber of Commerce December 12th, 2016

Big and Little

By CATHY YEN, Executive Director “What is the biggest challenge of your job?” people ask me often.

My answer: serving a local economy that is increasingly split between small, independently-owned businesses and the growing number of national brands. National versus independent is a challenge for chambers, because the national retailers, restaurants and even some franchises typically do not join local chambers.

We are working hard to modify our business model to create benefits that appeal to the managers of the national-brand stores. But the current model of networking, continuing education, advocacy and the opportunity to make local connections tends not to resonate.

Large corporate-owned companies rely on national brand, central marketing and corporate efficiencies to succeed and deliver on

customer promise. National brands may take advantage of local festivals and may donate to local charities or schools. But they do not consistently engage locally the way the independents do.

Still, new and planned construction in our downtown and eventually Madison Street is good for our overall local economy. Development will continue to attract regional and national brand concepts to our area, which both helps and hampers the little guys.

As a community, we like our independent restaurants, quirky boutiques, mom and pop stores, locally-owned service businesses and unique small businesses. We want to retain our small-town charm and culture. We want that neighborhood feel from knowing our shopkeepers and owners. But we also want the convenience, product, name-brand items, familiarity and service that the big companies offer.

On the one hand, more regional and national brands in our commercial districts attract

more customers. We’ll see more vibrancy, foot traffic, leased space and revenue. On the other hand, we’ll see higher rents than independents can afford, competing product offerings, convenience shoppers defaulting to the big brands and a level of marketing that independents cannot match.

I am confident that big name companies and small town businesses can thrive side by side.

Our Chamber welcomes the big guys and will do its best to continue providing resources to the little guys to help them compete. Together, large and small businesses create an interesting, sustainable economy that can leave us all better off.

Friday, Jan. 27, 2017

5:30pm-9:30pm at the Nineteenth Century Club, Oak Park, IL

Bite Nite tickets are now on sale! www.foodiefest.net Foodie Fest, our local “restaurant week,” is Jan. 27 - Feb. 9

Restaurant Owners: Contact Alicia to take advantage of this FREE opportunity! aplominspitler@oprfchamber.org

19

Wednesday Journal, December 14, 2016

OAKPARK.COM | RIVERFOREST.COM

C R I M E

BP armed robber arrested

These items, obtained from the Oak Park and River Forest police departments, came from reports, Dec. 5-11, and represent a portion of the incidents to which police responded. Anyone named in these reports has only been charged with a crime and cases have not yet been adjudicated. We report the race of a suspect only when a serious crime has been committed, the suspect is still at large, and police have provided us with a detailed physical description of the suspect as they seek the public’s help in making an arrest.

— Compiled by Timothy Inklebarger

MSRP†

Available select 20 on 2017 mod16 & els!

ON ALL REMAINING 2016’s!

0 84 % x APR

NEW 2017 SONIC

LS

11,998 $99

$

**

/mo

x 36 Months* or Lease For *10,000 miles/year. $2500 due at signing + $0 sec. dep. plus tax, title, license, and doc fees. Mileage charge of $0.25/mile over 20,000 miles. Stk. #B2592

NO PAYMENTS FOR

NEW 2017 CRUZE

LS

13,497 $99

$

**

/mo

x 36 Months* or Lease For *10,000 miles/year. $2500 due at signing + $0 sec. dep. plus tax, title, license, and doc fees. Mileage charge of $0.25/mile over 30,000 miles. Stk. #B2245

90 DAYS!

NEW 2016 MALIBU

16,998 $109

$

+

LS

**

/mo

x 36 Months* *10,000 miles/year. $2500 due at signing + $0 sec. dep. plus tax, title, license, and doc fees. Mileage charge of $0.25/mile over 20,000 miles. Stk. #B1576 or Lease For

W E D N E S D A Y

JOURNAL of Oak Park and River Forest

To run an obituary Please contact Ken Trainor by e-mail: ktrainor@wjinc.com, or fax: 708/524-0447 before Monday at noon.

Please include a photo if possible.

NEW 2017 TRAX

LS

17,997 $129

$

**

/mo

x 36 Months* or Lease For *10,000 miles/year. $1000 due at signing + $0 sec. dep. plus tax, title, license, and doc fees. Mileage charge of $0.25/mile over 30,000 miles. Stk. #B2996

NEW 2017 EQUINOX

18,892 $139

$

LS

**

/mo

x 36 Months* or Lease For *10,000 miles/year. $2400 due at signing + $0 sec. dep. plus tax, title, license, and doc fees. Mileage charge of $0.25/mile over 20,000 miles. Stk. #B2710

NEW 2016 SILVERADO CAB WT

REGULAR

19,988 $179

$

**

/mo

x 36 Months* *10,000 miles/year. $2500 due at signing + $0 sec. dep. plus tax, title, license, and doc fees. Mileage Nice People charge of $0.25/mile over 30,000 miles. Stk. #B1685 or Lease For

Nice People To Do Business With

Nice People To Do Business With Nice People To Do Business Nice People To Do Business With With

I always fetch the Wednesday Journal!

8401 ROOSEVELT RD.

(Roosevelt Just East of 1st Ave.)

FOREST PARK, IL

866-883-7149 TEXT US AT 708-628-5903

CurrieChevy.com

T

Nice People To Do Business

SERVICE: SALES: M-Th 7-7 M-F 9-9 Fri. 7-6 SAT. 9-7 SAT. 8-4

290 Harlem Ave.

■ The tip jar was stolen from the counter at the Starbucks coffee shop, 711 Lake St., about 8:50 a.m. on Dec. 8. The loss was unknown.

■ A man stole six packages of Flonase from the CVS pharmacy at 345 Madison St. at 5:56 p.m. on Dec. 7. He exited the store and entered a white 4-door Saturn driven by a second person. The estimated loss was $245.

■ A payroll check was stolen from the mail slot in the front door of a residence in the 400 block of N. Oak Park Ave. sometime between noon and 3 p.m. on Dec. 7.

■ A package containing Mielle shampoo, valued at $15, was stolen from the front porch of a residence in the 400 block of S. Taylor sometime between 10:06 a.m. and 2:45 p.m. on Dec. 6.

■ A package containing a black, 8-inch Sprint Galaxy tablet, valued at $100, was stolen from the front porch of a residence in the 400 block of S. Grove sometime between 3:43 p.m. and 8:33 p.m. on Dec. 6.

■ A star-shower, motion-laser light, valued at $50, was stolen from the front yard of a residence in the 400 block of S. Taylor sometime between 10 p.m. on Nov. 20 and 4 p.m. on Dec. 1.

A 17-year-old male from Chicago was arrested for possession of a stolen motor vehicle in the 500 block of W. Augusta at 7:28 p.m. on Dec. 7. Two other 16-year-old boys and a 17-year-old girl were charged with criminal trespass to a motor vehicle. All arrestees were released to their parents. No additional information was given.

20% OFF

294 Roosevelt Rd.

38

Des Plaines Rd.

Theft

Possession of stolen motor vehicle arrest

SUPER BONUS TAG CASH!

1st Avenue

Elijah Menefee, 45, of the 16000 block of Evans Ave. in South Holland, was arrested at 3:36 p.m. on Dec. 6 for an aggravated assault that occurred on Dec. 5 in the 200 block of Le Moyne. No additional information was given.

An Elmwood Park resident’s 2007 tan Jeep Commander was stolen from the 800 block of N. East Avenue sometime between 7 p.m. on Dec. 7 and 10 a.m. the next day. The vehicle was valued at $9,000.

Mannheim

Aggravated assault arrest

Theft of motor vehicle

Nice People To Do Business With

MONTHS^

Jamion Winters, 25, of the 900 block of N. Leclaire Ave. in Chicago, was arrested at 5:20 p.m. on Dec. 8 for an armed robbery that occurred at the BP Gas station, 520 S. Austin Blvd., earlier that day at 6:40 a.m.

Winters also was charged with aggravated kidnapping, reckless discharge of a firearm and possession of cannabis. No additional information was given.

We’ll Beat ANY Deal on ANY New Chevy EVERY Time! ~

Cermak

Dealer not responsible for errors in this advertisement. Photos for illustration purposes only. All rebates are in lieu of other offers.

Offers do not apply to fleet, wholesale or prior sales. Offers and prices expire two days after publication date. +Payments can be deferred for 90 days with contract payment. Must be financed through Bank of the West with approved credit. Offer ends 2 days after publication. ^0% for 84 months is not exclusively sponsored or subsidized by the manufacturer. To qualified buyer with approved credit. $10,000 maximum amount financed. Dealer buy down participation may affect final cost. †All rebates and incentive applied to qualified buyers with approved credit. Stand alone offer. Not stackable with any other offers. Valid on 2017 Spark, 2017 Sonic, and 2017 Impala. Must take delivery by 12/12/16. ~Must be an identical equipped vehicle in stock. Dealer reserves right to verify deal. **Plus tax, title, license & doc fee to qualified buyers with approved credit. Offers expire two days from publication.

20

Wednesday Journal, December 14, 2016

OAKPARK.COM | RIVERFOREST.COM Photo byDavid Hammond

Morisqueta at Suburrito

December 16th @ 9pm

JOE RENDON and

FRIENDS

December 22nd @ 8pm 773-622-5555 6966 W NORTH AVE,CHICAGO SERGIOSPLACECHICAGO.COM

TACO VIVO CHRISTMAS A TO Z

F

If I don’t recognize it, I want to eat it

Suburrito, unsurprisingly, is irst encountering Old El not offering Mexican food that Paso tacos in my teens, I challenges the palate: you’re figured tacos were probnot going to be served chapuably the best Mexico had to lines (the fried grasshoppers offer. Years later, I learned of Oaxaca), super-spicy chow that Mexico’s different regions for heat-seeking chili-heads offered an incredible range of (jalapeno, si; habanero, no) or culinary traditions, including complex sauces. Of course, you Sonoran hot dogs in the north, can’t really expect that kind seafood on either side of the of thing in Oak Park, which is country, and the wonderful mole not to say that Subarrito’s food sauces in southern Mexico. is dumbed down, though some Strolling by the newly opened of the traditional spiciness of Suburrito (1053 Lake), I glanced Mexican food is definitely modiat the menu and spotted morisLocal Dining fied a little to appeal to local queta, billed as a specialty of & Food Blogger villagers. That’s just business Michoacán, a Mexican state to and totally understandable. the west of Mexico City.

Suburrito is brought to us by Morisqueta. Hmmm. If I don’t the same folks who own Chameleon in Cirecognize a menu item, I want to eat it. So I cero (6150 W. Cermak), which offers a much had to have the morisqueta for lunch. greater range of Mexican dishes, including A very simple dish, morisqueta is white a good amount of seafood and grilled items. rice, black beans, salsa ranchera, sour Suburrito, on the other hand, is more like cream, Chihuahua cheese, tomato and a lunch or light-dinner spot, a place to grab onions, served in a bowl — kind of a decona torta on lunch hour or a quick bite before structed burrito. Many of the dishes on the a movie at the Lake Theatre (or even after: Suburrito menu — tacos, tortas, salads, etc.

Suburrito is open until 2 a.m. on Saturday — are variations on this theme, mostly the same ingredients in different configurations. and Sunday mornings). This new Oak Park restaurant itself is also a kind of chameI had the morisqueta with scrambled leon in that the more intense flavors of traeggs and chorizo, a usually piquant Mexiditional Mexican food are adjusted to match can sausage that turned out to be quite the preferences of the local audience. mild. In fact, this whole dish was mild.

My morisqueta came in under $8 (prices Almost all the sauces offered at the counter vary, based on whether you want, for were labeled “medium,” though even the one labeled “hot” was much less incendiary instance, chicken or steak in your burrito, taco, salad or morisqueta). For lunch, than I’d expected. Not that there’s anything Suburrito’s menu offers fresh, simple and wrong with that. economical veggie alternatives to some of If you’re trying to expand taste buds the fried and fattier options available at — either your own or your kids’ — with many other local lunch spots.

Mexican flavors, Suburrito is a good place My guess is that, with time and some sucto start, and tacos are probably the most commonly used training wheels on the road cess, Suburrito may test-market Mexican foods that are perhaps a bit more exciting. to understanding the depth and complexity When that happens, I’ll hurry back. of Mexican food.

DAVID

HAMMOND

Order Holiday Pies, Cookies & Peppermint Bark from Buzz Cafe this Holiday Season!

Call 660-0894 or stop in to place your order TODAY!

Grove Apartments: The naysayers were wrong p. B7

December 14, 2016

Homes

Powered by the Oak Park Area Association of Realtors

A home with a past … and a future 807 N. Kenilworth provides plenty of detail to evoke a bygone era

By LACEY SIKORA

R

Contributing Reporter

eportedly, today’s young generation is waiting longer than their predecessors to buy their first homes, and Fortune Magazine reports that homeownership rates have hit record lows.

The delay among millennials could be due to a variety of reasons: increasing home prices and stagnant wages, couples waiting longer to get married, student loan debt?

The current state of homeownership appears to bear little resemblance to how it was over a century ago. In Oak Park, for instance, a home for sale on Kenilworth Avenue reflects a simpler time, when mortgage rates and student loans played no role in the decision about when and where to purchase a home.

Family ties Built in 1899 for stone mason F.W. Vierow, the Victorian-style home at 807 N. Kenilworth started out as family affair. F.W.’s brother, E.R., built a similar house on the next block at 730 N. Kenilworth. Realtor Ann Keeney of Baird & Warner, who is listing 807 N. Kenilworth for the owners, points out the parallels: “If you look at 730, it’s actually very similar to this house in terms of construction,” she said.

Courtesy of VHT STUDIOS

EVOCATIVE: The Vierow house dates back to 1899 and its detailing evokes a simpler time.

Not only was it common for adult siblings to live close together, but it was also regular practice for children to remain in close proximity to their parents after marriage. When F.W.’s children married in the early 1900s, he took steps to make sure his children would always be close to home: he gifted each of them with a home adjacent to his own. No mortgage, no house hunting and no worrying about your children living too far away.

Vierow built three houses on Thomas

Street and on Kenilworth Avenue to the south of his own house for his three daughters, and he built a home north of his house on Kenilworth for his son. He used his stone masonry expertise to construct the brick and stone houses, and took stones from the wall that originally surrounded his home to construct the façade of the house immediately to the south.

Anticipating the importance of parking in Oak Park, he also constructed two fourcar garages for the family to share.

HELP PROGRAM (HOMEOWNER’S EDGE LOAN PLUS)

708.383.2280

PROGRAM SUMMARY • Purchase transactions: Lender will pay 5% of loan amount to assist with closing costs and/or down payment • Refinance transaction: 5% of loan amount to cover applicable closing costs • No income restrictions*

Available in Cook, DeKalb, DuPage, Lake and Kane Counties.

• Borrowers do not need to be first time homebuyers • No purchase price limit

Call today to find out if your property is an eligible census tract.

*Must follow underlying product guidelines

Modern updates Times have changed, and the five homes have long been separated and owned by different families. The current owners raised their family in the five-bedroom house and are listing the house with Keeney for $769,000.

The owners made many updates to the home, including an addition that includes See KENILWORTH on page B5

ANDREW G . PALOMO MORTGAGE PLANNER, PERL MORTGAGE, INC.

P: 708.383.2280 x101

C: 847.489.1900 F: 847.241.0061 andrew@mympgroup.com

224 S. Marion St. Oak Park, IL 60302

perlmortgage.com/apalomo PERL Mortgage, Inc is an Illinois residential mortgage licensee (MB0004358) and equal housing lender. Licensed by the California Department of Business Oversight under the California Residential Mortgage Lending Act. NMLS #19186 - Illinois Residential Mortgage Licensee Department of Financial and Professional Regulation, Division of Banking, 100 West Randolph, 9th Floor, Chicago, Illinois, 60601, 844-768-1713, 2936 W Belmont Ave, Chicago, IL 60618 MB0004358 - NMLS #19186 - NMLS #: 190447; IL: 031.0004041

Is refinancing right for you? Is now is the right time to purchase your first home? Do you want to upgrade or downsize?

At Community Bank, we offer a complimentary consultation to help you through the maze of options.

Since mortgage rates are at an all-time low we believe that every homeowner should have the information necessary that allows for the best decision on buying or refinancing, and that could save you thousands of dollars in interest.

• Lower your rate • Shorten the term of your loan

• Combine your debt into one low payment • Eliminate paying mortgage insurance

We now have the ability to offer new loan programs and products that will increase our ability to provide financing for every type of need that our clients have. Call us today!

Claude L’Heureux 708-660-7006 NMLS 802841

Phil LaGiglia 708-660-7012 NMLS 703965

Claude L’Heureux NMLS# 802841 Phil LaGiglia NMLS# 703965 Community Bank of Oak Park River Forest NMLS# 288792

B2 View more at OakPark.com/Real-Estate ■ December 14, 2016

From Our Family To Yours Happy Holidays!

Your local face of real estate since 1933.

FEATURE PROPERTY

Riverside

$1,799,000

Wrights finest example, of Prairie Style, is the Avery Coonley House. Built 1908-1912, this 5 bed, 5 bath, 6000 sq foot home, sits on over an acre of land. Fully restored to its original glory and updated for today’s living. Architectural details, reflecting pool, summer house, back terrace and sunken garden, make this site spectacular.

Catherine Simon-Vobornik - ID# 09273579

Oak Park

$839,000

Spectacular completely renovated 4 bed, 2.1 bath Traditional located in the Frank Lloyd Wright Historic District. Features of hardwood floors, formal living room with gas fireplace, large dining room, Chef’s kitchen, family room with new wood burning fireplace, large master suite and lower level that features work/craft space. Great outdoor space!

Steve Scheuring – ID# 09251411

OPEN HOUSE • SUN 1-3PM 721 ONTARIO STREET, UNIT 202

Oak Park

$640,000

Amazing space in this updated 3 bed, 3 bath home.

Great open floor plan with updated kitchen that flows into a spacious dining room, gorgeous hardwood floors throughout, family room, sunroom/office, basement with recreation room, newer HVAC, newer water heater, bluestone patio, 2 car garage with exterior 3rd parking space.

Catherine Simon Vobornik - ID# 09324568

River Forest

$595,000

Beautiful red-brick 3 bed, 2.1 bath colonial features spectacular wood floors, modern updates, original mosaic tile, huge living room/sun room combination, large dining room with built in buffet, spacious kitchen, large master with walk-in closet, large recreation room, an office and laundry area. Many more upgrades!

Steve Scheuring - ID# 09382153

NEW LISTING

7805 Greenfield Street, River Forest

Oak Park

$475,000

Duplexed 2 bed, 2.1 bath condo features elevator to the private unit entrance, gas fireplace, high-end kitchen, master suite with skylights in vaulted ceilings, 3rd level loft office space with walk-out balcony area.

The 2nd level also features the home’s large 2nd bedroom with its own en suite full bath. So much more!

Steve Scheuring – ID# 09245479

Oak Park

$469,000

Updated 3 bed, 2.1 bath home with inviting open floor plan and details of Art Glass, hardwood floors, newer kitchen, baths and replacement windows.

Awesome basement, fully remodeled in 2013, includes family room with direct vent gas fireplace.

Many mechanical updates! Spacious 3 car garage!

Vanessa Willey – ID# 09401621

Park Ridge

$400,000

Sleek urban-retro 3 bed, 2 bath remodeled home on wide lot with attached garage. Large open floor plan, master bedroom with en suite has his/her closet, freshly painted, beautiful eat-in kitchen, GORGEOUS refinished hardwood floors on main level. HUGE partially finished basement with fireplace. Outdoor grill and patio space!

Rada Burns – ID# 09354491

Oak Park

$368,000

Brick 4-Square with 3 bed, 1.1 bath, grand entry foyer, formal dining room, fantastic kitchen and large family room that opens to the back deck. Spacious lower level with space for a guest bedroom/separate office/recreation area. Great storage! Upgraded electrical!! Much More!!!

Steve Scheuring – ID# 09342113

OPEN HOUSE • SUN. 1-3 322 N LAVERNE AVE

Oak Park

$300,000

4 bed, 2 bath home with hardwood floors, enclosed front porch, large living room, formal dining room, eat-in kitchen and mud room. Large bedroom on 2nd floor offers built-in shelving and dresser; potential for master suite, recent updates - C/A, furnace, roof and privacy fence, partially finished basement and garage.

Catherine Simon-Vobornik – ID# 09195424

Berwyn

$269,000

Spacious 4 bedroom, 2.1 bath English Tudor. Newly refinished hardwood floors, formal dining room, large eat-in kitchen, finished basement featuring a family, office/bedroom and paver patio. New Roof (2015), 2 car garage with New Garage Door (2016), Concrete (2012) New Furnace (2009), New A.C. (2013) and Basement Windows (2006).

Mary Ann Bednarke - ID# 09308165

Oak Park

$219,900

Comfortable 4 bed, 1.1 bath home with several updates and throughout the years. All new in 2004; roof, soffit, fascia and gutters, thermo pane windows and glass block in basement, vinyl siding on home and garage, exterior doors, electric service upgraded to 200 amp service with panel and much more.

James Salazar – ID# 09223568

Hillside

$179,000

GREAT for a starter home! Beautiful hardwood floors, 2 bedrooms on the first floor, one could be used as a dining room. Huge lot with a gigantic fenced backyard! Loft area on the second floor (between 2 bedrooms) could be used as a family room. 2.5 car garage has tons of storage space.

Ed Bellock - ID# 09279598

NEW LISTING

Kara Keller - ID# 09386614

F E AT U R E D N E W CO N S T R U C T I O N OPEN HOUSE SUNDAY 12-2PM 319 CHESTNUT LANE, OAK PARK

60%

SOLD

NEW LISTING

Oak Park Chicago

$814,500

Sophisticated elegance inside and out! Only the finest materials and craftsmanship were used when this solid 4 bedroom, 3.1 bath home was built in 1935. The living spaces throughout are generously sized and the finishes are outstanding. All 4 bedrooms are on the 2nd floor and every bedroom has a full bathroom en-suite! The Master Suite is set privately on the south side of the house and includes a walk-in-closet, bathroom and windows on the east, west and south sides. The kitchen renovation was inspired by Williams Sonoma and is right on trend with black cabinets and cherry wood counter tops, stainless farm sink, Thermador gas range, and hood. The basement is 1/2 storage/laundry/utility and 1/2 finished family room with gorgeous plank tile flooring and a gas fireplace. The outdoor space is equally as impressive, from the stone porch in the front to the screened patio in the back!

$149,900

Just in time for the holiday season! Beautifully updated 4 bed,1 bath Classic American 4 Square in Historic Austin area. Vintage charmer with a modern twist! Open floor plan, hardwood floors, hi-end kitchen with stainless appliances, island and tile backsplash. Enjoy the spacious backyard with veranda!

Samuel Marshall- ID# 09388246

Oak Park

$144,000

Bright 2 bed, 1.1 bath end unit with recently refinished hard wood floors in master bedroom. All new recessed lighting in living room, generous sized closets and updated full bath. Storage and washer/dryer in basement. Deeded parking space! Close to shopping and transportation.

Mary Ann Bednarke – ID# 09143691

Oak Park

$140,000

Move in ready 2 bedroom condo with brand new carpeting thru-out; big closets plus an open floor plan. Parking and storage included! Easy access to 290, CTA, Metra, restaurants, parks and more are all within a few blocks of your new home. Owner has paid assessments for all of 2016!

David Stanger – ID# 09340203

Oak Park

$115,000

Bright 1 bedroom condo in well-cared for building!

New wood laminate flooring, French doors, spacious dining area, updated kitchen and beautiful tile bath with double bowl sink. Nothing to do but move in, sit back and enjoy owning at its best Final and special assessment payment paid by seller in December.

Rosemary Amani – ID# 09399414

Starting At: $529,900

The Oak Park Oasis, 22, 4 level townhomes with a fresh new approach to townhome living. Sleek and modern with a downtown flair, featuring versatile 3 or 4 bedroom layouts, 3.5 baths, open kitchens with large center island, balcony off kitchen for grilling, 1st floor office/bedroom that features an en-suite full bath, beautiful master suite, 4th level has cozy loft space - plumbed for wet bar, large private roof deck and 2 car attached garage. Many great cabinet selections with quartz closets, marble bathrooms, oak flooring, and stainless steel appliances! Buy now and pick your finishes! Great center of town location! Delivery Spring 2016! Call for details.

Patricia McGowan – ID# 09154664

Call us today to use the local knowledge and skill of our agents paired with the broad reach and power of Baird & Warner.

1037 CHICAGO AVENUE, OAK PARK I 708.697.5900 | BAIRDWARNER.COM December 14, 2016 ■ Wednesday Journal/Forest Park Review

B3

Generations of Excellence since 1958

708.771.8040 • 7375 W. North Ave., River Forest Donna Barnhisel Cibula 7375 West North AvenueJoe Dan Bogojevich Don Citrano MANAGING Anne Brennan Julie Cliggett BROKER/OWNERS River Forest, Illinois 60305 Karen Byrne Alisa Coghill Kevin Calkins JoLyn Crawford 708.771.8040 Tom Carraher Andy Gagliardo Maria Cullerton Pat Cesario

Tom Poulos

Karen Doty

Julie Downey Kurt Fielder Yvonne Fiszer-Steele Ramona Fox Chris Garvey Lisa Grimes Dan Halperin Sharon Halperin

Greg Jaroszewski Vee Jaroszewski Joanne Kelly Michael Kinnare Sherree Krisco Jack Lattner Susan Maienza Vince McFadden

Charlotte Messina Kathleen Minaghan Colleen Navigato Rosa Pitassi Katie Possley Michael Roche Sue Ponzio-Pappas Jenny Ruland

Laurel Saltzman Rob Sarvis Meg Sullivan Laurie Shapiro Tom Sullivan Debbie Watts George Wohlford Nancy Wohlford

1143 KEYSTONE • RIVER FOREST

123 ASHLAND • RIVER FOREST

530 PARK • RIVER FOREST

520 FOREST • RIVER FOREST

GREAT COLONIAL HOME on a great block! Move in condition with 3+ bedrooms, 2-1/2 baths. Eat in kitchen, den/office space, mudroom, sun/Florida room and screened in back porch. Partially finished basement. Coach house with 2 car garage. You will love the available space! ......................................................................$649,000

CHARMING, SPACIOUS QUEEN ANNE BUNGALOW in pristine condition. Art glass windows, French doors, wood trim, hardwood floors. Granite kitchen, breakfast nook. Family room and 1st floor bedroom. 3 bedrooms on 2nd floor. Finished basement, enclosed porch, 2 car garage. ...............................................$639,900

LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION!!! Spacious first floor has updated kitchen with granite counter tops and stainless steel appliances. The finished basement has 4th BR and a full bath.

Professionally landscaped yard with new brick paver patio. Nothing to do but move in...................................................................$599,000

LARGE VICTORIAN with 4 bedrooms, 2-1/2 baths has great original details including wide moldings, wood burning fireplace, beamed ceilings, large room sizes and high ceilings. Master bedroom with bath, good closet space. Large backyard with deck. .................................................................................................$385,000

638 N KENILWORTH • OAK PARK

827 N OAK PARK • OAK PARK

111 ROCKFORD • FOREST PARK

1904 N 74TH • ELMWOOD PARK

UNPRECEDENTED ESTATE in the Frank Lloyd Wright Historical district of Oak Park! This meticulously renovated 5 BR, 5 full / 2 half bath property offers exquisite details and refined finishes that boast timeless materials and over the top custom millwork. This is a showcase home! ................................................................. $2,525,000

ROOM FOR EVERYONE and stunning finishes throughout. Newly finished kitchen features 2 dishwashers and a built in bar with beverage center. Top end bathrooms. Master Suite features a deck, walk-in closet and a redone bath. Beautiful decorating. Beautiful landscaping. ...........................................................................$719,000

TOTALLY REMODELED!! All new: kitchen, hardwood floors, windows, siding, roof, light fixtures, plumbing fixtures, doors and hardware, and fenced-in yard. Master bedroom has walk-in closet, master bath, and walk out deck. 2 car garage with additional exterior parking space...................................................................$559,900

METICUOUSLY MAINTAINED BRICK GEORGIAN with 3 bedrooms, 1-1/2 bath, an open floor plan, expansive kitchen, and spacious family room. Living room has wood burning fireplace. Partially finished basement, entertainment deck, landscaped yard, two car garage. ....................................................................................$339,000

RIVER FOREST HOMES

ELMWOOD PARK HOMES

OPEN HOUSE SUNDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2016

RESTORE THIS HOUSE with fabulous curb appeal or Build your dream home on this 100’ x 184’ lot. ........................................................$1,400,000 BEAUTIFUL STYLISH UPDATED HOME with 4 BRs, 3.2 BAs on four floors of living space. Includes LR w/ frpl, new high end kitchen, Breakfast Rm, 1st FL office. LL has Fam Rm, Rec Room, Laundry, Wine Cellar and Full Bath. 2 car garage with extra storage and rooftop deck. ..........$1,049,000 PRICE REDUCED! VERY UNIQUE PRAIRIE HOME sits on a beautiful corner lot. The home suggestive of Tallmadge & Watson has a dramatic family room that opens to the kitchen. Expansive LR with fireplace.

Basement has 2nd half bath, and storage. Nice size yard with private brick patio & XL 2 car garage. ...................................................................$569,000 PRICE REDUCED! BEAUTIFUL, MOVE-IN READY REHAB in River Forest. Large open kitchen with all brand new SS. New 3/4 inch Brazilian Koa wood floors throughout. Designer baths. Wood burning fireplace.

Master suite. Full basement. Great backyard with covered patio. Close to great schools!......................................................................................$386,500

OAK PARK HOMES BEAUTIFUL ESTATE HOME in Historic Oak Park with a perfect blend of modern and vintage details including hardwood floors, leaded glass windows and a grand staircase. Large rooms, tall ceilings and a lot of windows make this 5BR, 3-1/2 BA home spacious and bright. ..$899,500

721 ONTARIO UNIT 211 • OAK PARK • OPEN SUNDAY 1-3 PRICE REDUCED! MANY EXTRA AMENITIES in this exquisite 3 bedroom, 2-1/2 bath condo. Kitchen completely renovated, original French balconies, stunning cathedral windows, and LR is highlighted by gas fireplace & built-in bookcases. Large deck. The style is a combination of Italian Renaissance & Prairie elements. .$535,000

GEORGIAN STYLE HOME boasting three levels of living space. Solid brick home sits on double lot. Basement has eight foot ceilings and is finished with bedroom and family room. Home has all new stainless steel appliances. 2.5 car detached garage with driveway and alley access.......... ..............................................................................................................$409,000

CONDOS/TOWNHOMES/2 FLATS PRICE REDUCED! BEAUTIFULLY REMODELED 5 bed/ 2 full bath home with a newly remodeled kitchen with a large attached breakfast area or family room. Bathrooms updated this year. Four large BRs on 2nd fl , 5th BR on 1st flr, perfect for company, or your private office..$478,900 VALUE MAY BE IN THE LAND. Major renovation needed to the house.

Being sold “As Is”................................................................................$250,000

FOREST PARK HOMES COMBINATION OF VINTAGE AND MODERN in this open concept home perfect for living and entertaining! Features hardwood floors, art glass windows, fresh baths, full basement. Charming front porch and backyard deck. Well maintained, move-in condition. .................$319,000 NOTHING TO DO BUT MOVE IN! Newly stained dark hardwood floors throughout, including the kitchen. Three large bedrooms. New deck and many upgrades. Don’t pass this one by.... larger inside than it looks. Sunny back yard ready for your perennial garden. Fenced yard. .............$299,900

A New Home for The Holidays?

Contact a Gagliardo Realty Associates Agent today!

RIVER FOREST 1BR, 1BA. Entertainment area............................. $99,000 OAK PARK 2 Flat. ...........................................................................$525,000 NEW LISTING! OAK PARK 3BR, 2 full – 2 half BA..................$449,000 OAK PARK 2BR, 2BA. Gorgeous interior features........................$369,000 OAK PARK 2BR, 2-1/2BA. ...............................................................$359,700 OAK PARK 3BR, 1BA. Beautifully updated. ..................................$299,000 OAK PARK 2BR, 2BA. Unique condo............................................. $289,900 OAK PARK 1BR, 1BA. Convenient location.....................................$84,900 OAK PARK 1BR, 1BA. Updated kitchen and bath. ......................... $76,300 FOREST PARK 2BR, 2BA. Spacious corner unit. .........................$289,000 FOREST PARK 2BR, 2BA. Large balcony. .................................... $178,000 PRICE REDUCED! FOREST PARK 1BR, 1BA. ............................$87,500 PRICE REDUCED! FOREST PARK 1BR, 1BA. ........................... $69,900 ELMWOOD PARK 1BR, 1BA. Separate eating area...................... $79,500

For more listings & photos go to GagliardoRealty.com

B4 View more at OakPark.com/Real-Estate ■ December 14, 2016

KENILWORTH

From the 19th to the 21st centuries from page B1 a remodeled kitchen and a renovated secondfloor bathroom. The Jean Stoffer-designed kitchen includes all of the modern conveniences for today’s cooking-obsessed families — in the guise of a grand kitchen from an earlier era.

Built-in Sub Zero refrigerator and freezers, as well as refrigerator and freezer drawers, are paneled to look like built-in cabinetry. A wall of cherry built-ins across from the island provides plenty of storage, as does hidden storage built into the walls. A farmhouse sink and striking copper range hood add to the Victorian charm. A Wolf range and Bosch dishwasher make cooking and cleanup for a family or guests less daunting.

Stoffer replicated the turret on the front of the home in designing the rounded eat-in area of the kitchen. A curved, built-in bench covers the radiator, and a table was designed for the space.

The coffered ceiling was modeled on the original coffered ceiling in the formal dining room. A newly constructed powder room and a new mudroom with a wine refrigerator and travertine flooring round out the addition on the first floor.

Historic charm While the modern updates make the home ready for today’s families, the original details that survive keep the Victorian charm alive throughout the house. In the large living room, a built-in window seat graces the turret wall. A wood-burning fireplace with original mantel warms the room, and pocket doors connect the living room to, or separate it from, the adjacent dining room.

In the dining room, two original, built-in buffets offer plenty of storage options, and the buffet was custom-built to cover the radiator and offer more storage. A coffered ceiling features original light fixtures, and the walls above the wainscot still retain the original food-centered murals.

A library at the front of the house has another original fireplace mantel and a gas fireplace. Throughout the first floor, the elaborate crown molding and original light fixtures add period charm to each room.

Upstairs and outside The second floor of the home has four bedrooms with a shared, newly-renovated bathroom with radiant-heated floors. The third floor allows room for a master suite with a sitting area in the turret of the house and a

Courtesy of VHT STUDIOS

RETAINING AND UPGRADING: Like many of Oak Park’s homes, this one has retained details from the past while adding modern amenities. full bathroom.

The outside of the house mingles both old and new to create a quintessential Oak Park modernized period piece. The slate roof and

copper finial cap on the turret speak to a bygone era. The rear wrap-around deck and the screened front porch allow plenty of options to sit outside and enjoy the neighborhood.

This is no longer the era when a father gives his four children homes as wedding gifts, but the charm of an older home and a tree-lined block in Oak Park have timeless appeal.

December 14, 2016 ■ Wednesday Journal/Forest Park Review

B5

‘Tis the season of wishes…

Don’t wait to make all of your real estate wishes come true!

Call Steve and get on the path to a successful sale or purchase. The Spring Market will soon be upon us and the time to plan is now.

Happy Holidays!

Steve Scheuring | 708.369.8043 Realtor & Local Expert

Let’s get your home sold! steve.scheuring@bairdwarner.com Visit www.OPRFhouse.com and my photographic blog: YourHouseBehindTheLens.com 1037 CHICAGO AVENUE, OAK PARK

B6 View more at OakPark.com/Real-Estate ■ December 14, 2016

|

BAIRDWARNER.COM

Grove Apartments: The skeptics had it wrong

I

t is now three years since Grove Apartments — a 51-unit affordable apartment building — opened at the corner of Grove Avenue and Madison in the Village of Oak Park. An unsightly, boarded-up two-story building was converted into an inviting four-story brick structure that helps revitalize a portion of Madison Street ripe for change.

The community is attracted to the first floor commercial space that houses Sugar Beet Food Coop, a high-quality grocery store and café that occupies the first-floor Madison frontage of this structure. In September 2016, this co-op celebrated its one-year anniversary of providing fresh, high-quality groceries to local residents.

Sugar Beet has now topped 1,500 owners; a clear indication the community has fully embraced their new local grocer.

Beginning back in 2009, Interfaith Housing Development Corporation, a nonprofit affordable housing development company, in partnership with the Oak Park Housing Authority, faced its fair share of input and upfront opposition from well-organized neighbors during the rezoning process.

Concerns voiced both before the Oak Park Plan Commission and the Village Board of Trustees included inadequate parking, the population targeted, lack of demand for new commercial space, and a widespread impression that property values would decrease in

PERRY VIETTI

One View

Submitted by Nicol Zeller

AFFORDABLE AND NICER-LOOKING: The Interfaith Housing Development Corp. proved the naysayers wrong. They restored a noteworthy building and brought beneficial retail to the ground floor. Below left, what the building looked like previously. the neighborhood.

None of those concerns has materialized.

Parking. This has not been an issue. Only one-third of 51 households own cars, easily fitting into the adjacent parking lot, with many others taking advantage of the ample public transportation options in the immediate area. Residents and Sugar Beet shoppers can park in the lot when the store is open, but only residents can park in the lot after 9 p.m. and prior to 7 a.m. Employees of the two entities park in nine spaces off the alley.

Target Population. The building is fully occupied, with the majority of current residents being original tenants at the building’s opening in October 2013. As promised, over 70 percent of the current residents either lived and/or worked in the village of Oak Park prior to occupancy. None of the horror stories told six years ago has materialized. As a fully accessible building with an elevator, the building has successfully served many persons who could not live in the vintage walk-up apartments that are common in the village.

Commercial Demand. Sugar Beet has occupied the entire commercial space after a very tasteful buildout. High-quality retail has returned to what previously was a desolate section of Madison Street.

Decreased Property Values. The beauty of the building speaks for itself. Property values are enhanced with the addition of this architectural gem.

Speaking of beauty, Grove Apartments, designed by Weese Langley Weese Architects, received the Richard H. Driehaus Foundation Award for Architectural Excellence in Community Design at the 2015 Annual Chicago Neighborhood Development Awards. The original 1927-era building, a Cadillac and La Salle car dealership, conceived by American master of industrial design Albert Kahn, featured only two floors. In 1981, the building was converted to a service center for a cable TV company by covering the red brick in faux stucco panels.

Dennis Langley, the architect chosen

by Interfaith, was pleasantly surprised to uncover much of the original façade, albeit damaged. He figured out a way to repair the façade while adding two additional compatible floors with special-order brick, Indiana limestone per the original plans, and architectural concrete restoration, all matching and preserving Kahn’s original building.

The naysayers clearly had it all wrong!

A high-income community such as Oak Park benefits from economic diversity that results from affordable housing. In fact, the village of Oak Park believes in this mission so much, they created and fostered the growth of two affordable housing entities like the Oak Park Housing Authority and the Oak Park Residence Corporation, which Interfaith was able to work with to bring this project to fruition. Quality retail space can prosper with the right tenant. Concerns about adequate parking do not need to doom new development.

Interfaith Housing Development Corporation, which next year will celebrate 25 years, touts 16 successful affordable housing developments. Their approach to affordable housing — beautiful architecture, ample natural light, space, and air — has a proven track record in a wide variety of neighborhoods in metropolitan Chicago. For more information and to see other developments, visit IHDC.org.

Perry Vietti is president of Interfaith Housing Development Corp.

December 14, 2016 ■ Wednesday Journal/Forest Park Review

B7

In The Village, Realtors®

189 S. Oak Park Ave., Oak Park, IL 60302 (708) 386-1400 HomesintheVillage.com

April Baker

THIS WEEK’S FEATURED PROPERTIES

Joelle Venzera

Mike Becker

River Forest • $1,499,000 4BR, 3.1BA Call Jane x118 Roz Byrne

River Forest • $1,450,000 4BR, 3.1BA Call Elissa x192

Oak Park • $849,900 4BR, 3.1BA Call Steve x121

Oak Brook • $589,900 5BR, 2.1BA Call Kerry x139

Forest Park • $479,000 Multi-unit Call Gary x125

Oak Park • $339,800 4BR, 2.1BA Call Kyra x145

Oak Park • $325,000 3BR, 2BA Call Kelly x113

Forest Park • $289,000 4BR, 1.1BA Call Dorothy x124

Kelly Gisburne

Linda Rooney

Oak Park • $220,000 2BR, 2BA Call Laurie x186

Forest Park • $195,000 Multi-unit Call Dorothy x124

Kerry Delaney

Oak Park • $164,500 2BR, 1BA Call Elissa x192

Oak Park • $152,500 1BR, 1BA Call Kelly x113

by our office • View all properties listed erties listed • View thousands of prop throughout Chicagoland on of Luxury Homes • View the Remax Collecti erties • View Foreclosure Prop • View Open Houses ur neighborhood • View recent sales in yo

Kyra Pych

Elissa Palermo

Equal opportunity employers. 072477 - ©2008 RE/MAX International, Inc. All rights reserved.

Each RE/MAX® real estate office is independently owned and operated.

Steve Nasralla

Marion Digre

Morgan Digre

Kris Sagan

Haydee Rosa

Tom Byrne

Laurie Christofano

Harry Walsh, Managing Broker

Anna Gillian

Dorothy Gillian

Ed Goodwin

B8 View more at OakPark.com/Real-Estate ■ December 14, 2016

Joe Langley

Dan Linzing

Gary Mancuso

Jane McClelland

Keri Meacham

Alisha Mowbray

Distinctive Properties

LIBERTYVILLE

3BR, 2.1BA ....................................$554,900 Pauline Sharpe • 708-785-1895

OAK PARK

2BR, 2BA .......................................$199,000 Steve Scheuring •708-697-5946

OAK PARK

2-Flat ............................................$325,000 Dawn Evans • 773-269-9473

View more properties at:

OakPark.com/Real-Estate

OAK PARK

3BR,1.1BA .....................................$368,000 Steve Scheuring • 708-697-5946

OAK PARK

4 BR, 2.1BA ...................................$398,000 Steve Scheuring • 708-697-5946

Hansen Realty

PRICE REDUCED!

OAK PARK

6BR, 3BA .......................................$449,900 Molly Surowitz • 312-446-6251

OAK PARK

3BR, 2.1BA ....................................$469,000 Vanessa Wiley • 708-473-2578

OAK PARK

2BR, 2.1BA ....................................$475,000 Steve Scheuring • 708-697-5946

OPEN SUNDAY 1 - 3PM 721 ONTARIO, UNIT 211

OAK PARK

OAK PARK

3BR, 2.1BA ....................................$525,000

2BR, 2.1BA ....................................$535,000

Steve Scheuring • 708-697-5946

Nancy and George Wohlford • 708-610-6298

7375 West North Avenue River Forest, Illinois 60305 708.771.8040

OAK PARK

4BR, 1.1BA ....................................$598,000 Steve Scheuring • 708-697-5946

RIVER FOREST

4BR, 2.1BA ....................................$595,000 Steve Scheuring • 708-697-5946

OAK PARK

4BR, 2.1BA ....................................$839,000 Steve Scheuring • 708-697-5946

RIVER FOREST

6BR, 2BA .......................................$649,900 Gabe Caporale • 708-456-1919

RIVER FOREST

1BR, 1.1BA ....................................$219,500 Michael Dmyterko • 708-212-8933

RIVER FOREST

4BR, 2.1BA ....................................$719,900 Gabe Caporale • 708-456-1919

RIVER FOREST

RIVER FOREST

2BR, 2BA .......................................$224,000

3BR, 1.2BA ....................................$545,000

Ed Bellock • 630-253-7000

RIVER FOREST

Steve Scheuring • 708-697-5946

5BR, 3.1BA ................................$1,049,000 Adriana Laura Cook • 312-497-2044

RIVER FOREST

4BR, 4.2BA .................................$1,900,000 Tagger O’Brien • 708-456-6400

3 0 :DOVK &2 1SVEFOUJBM 6LQFH

Search. Expllore. Discover!

WJHomes Oakpark.com/Real-Estate.com

Search by City, Realtor, ZIP code, Price, BRs, BAs and street name |

View this week’s open houses

December 14, 2016 â– Wednesday Journal/Forest Park Review

B9

Spread the Joy! TWO WAYS

to help children thrive and families flourish NOVEMBER 22 - DECEMBER 16

GIVING TREE

Stop by the Hephzibah Giving Tree at Whole Foods Market in River Forest and select a paper heart ornament with the name and holiday wish of a child on need. Return the heart with your unwrapped gift to Whole Foods by December 16.

Hephzibah Children’s Association offers a safe haven for children traumatized by neglect and abuse, services for children and families in crisis, foster care and day care on a sliding scale for families of all income levels.

THROUGH - DECEMBER 31

MATCHED GIVING

Make an online donation by December 31 and your gift will be matched by generous benefactors. Learn more about our Hephzibah Holiday Challenge at hephzibahhome.org. Double your gift today!

THANK YOU for your support!

hephzibah

Our holiday model (above) is an Oak Park elementary-school student enrolled in Hephzibah’s award-winning Day Care Program.

C H I L D R E N’ S

A S S O C I AT I O N

Happy Holidays from your friends at Paisans New look, new menu,

full service, beer and wine, Same Great Pizza You Know and Love

PAISANS

lunch specials Monday-Thursday, custom catering, delivery

LOCATIONS

and Much more!

CICERO

5840 W. 16th Street • Cicero, IL 60804 708-863-0606

BROOKFIELD

3720 Grand Blvd. • Brookfield, IL 60513 708-485-6833

B10 View more at OakPark.com/Real-Estate ■ December 14, 2016

BERWYN

6226 W. Ogden Ave • Berwyn, IL 60402 708-484-5325

MORTON COLLEGE

3801 S Central Ave • Cicero, IL 60804 708-656-8000

LISLE

2901 Ogden Ave • Lisle, IL 60532 630-922-4100

o this

Serving Our Community For Over 70 Years

114 North Oak Park Avenue Oak Park, Illinois 60301

HOURS: MONDAY-FRIDAY 9AM-5PM SATURDAY 9AM-4PM • SUNDAY 10AM-2PM

OAK PARK. CLOSE TO EVERYTHING LOCATION! 4BR, 2BA. New kitchen, family room. Large yard. Side drive. Practically maintenance free. x ...............................$507,700

OAK PARK. JUMBO 4+BR, 3BA bungalow. Chef’s eat-in kitchen - granite counters, SS applncs & large island. Family rm. Finished bsmt. x ..........................................$672,500

708.524.1100

www.gloor.com

OAK PARK. ONE LEVEL living in the 3BR mid-century brick ranch in NW Oak Park.

Hdwd flrs. C/A. Spacious LR & separate DR. Full bsmt. Great yd. 2-car gar. x...$389,000

RIVER FOREST. PERFECT ATTENTION TO DETAIL. 5BR, 2.1BA home w/coach house.

Chef’s kitchen w/over-the-top amenities.

Family rm. Much more! x ..........$1,165,000

OPEN HOUSES • SUNDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2016 OAK PARK CONDOS/TOWNHOUSES OPEN 12-2PM AT THE SHOWROOM • 139 S. OAK PARK AVE. NEW CONSTRUCTION! New standard of luxury! 1808-2200 SF units, 3 BRs, 2 indoor pkg spaces, spacious terraces, eco-efficient LEED certified. Pricing starts at ....................................................................................................................................................................................................................................$654,900

BERWYN. AM 4-SQ, 3 BR, 1.1 BA near Proksa Park & train. Huge deck & patio w/ parking for 3 cars. x .......................$259,000 OAK PARK

HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS! Stunning 6 BR, 3.2 bath Dream Home has every bell & whistle. A must see!! x.....................................................$1,460,000 QUEEN ANNE Victorian w/open front porch on large lot! 6BRs, 2.2BAs. Stunning foyer w/frplc & striking staircase w/balcony. Much more! x ....................................................................... $599,000 REDUCED! FANTASTIC RANCH w/open floor plan. 3 BRs, 2.2BAs. WBFP. Large MBR ste. 1st flr lndry. C/A. Att garage. x .........................$594,000

LIKE GREEN SPACE? Love to Entertain?

Exceptionally restored, expanded home on private park-like lot offers huge family rm/kitchen combo.

6BR, 3.2BA. x ........................................$1,925,000 GREAT VICTORIAN in Estate section. Beautiful details: wdwk, glass & hardware. 5BRs, 3,2BAs. FOREST PARK Updated kit & BAs. Newer systems. x $1,100,000 BRIMMING WITH LIGHT & comfort this elegant PERFECT 10! New kitchen, BAs, roof, furnace, 4 4BR, 3.1BA home is move-in ready. Frplc. C/A. Fin’d BRs, 2 baths waterproofed & finished basement. bsmt. Lots more! See it! x...................... $639,000 x ................................................................$379,500 EXCEPTIONAL CLASSIC Prairie-style home. SWEET 3+1BR, 2.1BA FARMHOUSE. Gleaming 3BRs, 2.1BAs. Newly remodeled kitchen. WBFP. hdwd flrs, new C/A, new W/D, finished bsmt & Family rm. 3-tier cedar deck. Enjoy! x....$599,000 huge fenced yd. Just move in. x ............$319,900 SUPERB BRICK 3BR, 3.1BA, North Oak Park OTHER AREA HOMES home. Elegant LR, DR, 2-car garage w/awesome, finished bsmt. x .......................................$599,000 BERWYN. STUNNING OCTAGON bungalow in ENJOY LIFE IN FLW Historic District. 5BRs, 1½BAs. great condition. 4+ BRs, 3 full BAs. x.. $395,000 Spacious LR w/FRPLC. Family rm. Great yard! ELMWOOD PARK. LIGHT & BRIGHT, beaux ................................................................$519,000 tiful floors, C/A & 3 BR, 1.1 BA Great space!

ORIGINAL OAK PARK HOME. Tremendous space x ................................................................$338,000 in this 5BR, 1½BA Gunderson. Beamed ceiling, ELMWOOD PARK. ROOM FOR EVERYBODY! stained glass, pocket drs, WBFP & hdwd floors. Lovely, large brick bungalow. 4BR w/3 full BAs & x ................................................................$499,000 updated kitchen. Move right in. x .........$285,000 AWESOME, SPACIOUS, romantic Queen Anne NORTHLAKE. GREAT FOR ENTERTAINING. bungalow updated. 4BRs, 2BAs. Frplc. Huge eat-in Lrg 4BR, 3.1BA home w/awesome deck & beaukitchen w/SS applncs. New roof & windows. 2-car tiful yd. 2nd kitchen in bsmt. Lots of storage. gar + pkg pad. x ......................................$399,999 ..............................................................................$69,900 x ................................................................$299,900 spacious home with REDUCED! THE ULTIMATE HOUSE. Stunning INCOME Tudor on massive lot 200x188. Rehab offers all the modern amenities. Make an appt today. x RIVER FOREST. MUCH MORE THAN A 2-FLAT. ........................................................................$309,000 Side-by-side living. 3BRs, 2.1 BAs in each unit.

Hdwd flrs. C/A. 3½-car garage. x .........$749,000 RIVER FOREST MAGNIFICENT HOME! 5BR, 4.2BA Tudor built OAK PARK. BRICK 3-FLAT close to school wih a on massive 200 x 188 lot. Rehab & addition offer big living rm, formal dining rm. Excellent condition! modern amenities. x.......................... $2,999,000 Great income!...............................................$729,000 EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY

EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY

COMMERCIAL OAK PARK. MIXED USE BLDG. 1st flr: lrg commercial spc – approx. 3000SF. 2 apts on 2nd flr: 3BR, 1BA /1BR, 1BA. 2-car gar. 1st flr handicapped access. Call for more info. ..........................$395,000

OAK PARK CONDOS/TOWNHOUSES

EXCLUSIVE 2BR, 2BA multi-level skylit condo in the Oak Park Club! Open family rm overlooks LR/ DR. Frplc. 2 deeded garage spcs. x.......$480,000 STRIKING UPDATED vintage condo w/3BRs, 2BAs. Stunning kitchen, SS applncs, in-unit lndry & parking. x ................................................ $295,000 IDEAL OP LIVING! Contemporary 1BR + den, 1½ BA condo features open plan, designer kitchen & BAs, W/D, garage pkg, balcony & C/A. x ................................................................$215,000 BRIGHT & BEAUTIFUL corner condo! 2 large BRs w/big closets, 2BAs, freshly painted, Berber carpet, eat-in kitchen, pkg! Available NOW! .........$164,900 IN THE HEART OF TOWN, 2BR, 1BA condo w/ view of lovely lndscpd courtyd. Floor-to-ceiling windows. Open flr plan. Pkg. ....................$155,000

ONLY

NICELY UPDATED eat-in kitchen in this bright & spacious 2BR condo. Great location. Parking. x ................................................................$153,000 IDEAL LOCATION close to DTOP, library, Scoville Pk, & transportation. 2BR w/new flrs. Elevator bldg.

Parking......................................................... $123,000 WELL-LOCATED STUDIO features hdwd flrs, new SS fridge, new portable washer. Murphy’s bed. .........................................................................$69,900

CONDOS/TOWNHOUSES OTHER AREAS

OAK PARK. STYLISH & SPACIOUS Decker bldg. unit on 2nd flr. 3BR, 2.1BA. Wellmaintained. Move right in! x........$279,900 FOREST PARK. SWEET 3+1 BEDROOM, 2.1BA FARMHOUSE. Gleaming hdwd flrs, new C/A, new W/D, finished bsmt & huge fenced yd. .$2,375/mo

CONDOS OAK PARK. 2 BEDROOM furnished apt has everything. Perfect for a short term rental. Includes heat, water, electric, WIFI & cable. Minimum 3 mo stay. ....................................................................$1,800/mo OAK PARK. GREAT LOCATION! 2 BRs, hdwd flrs, newer kitchen, in-unit laundry, 2 pkg spaces, storage. .....................................................$1,600/mo

ELMWOOD PARK. LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION! MBR w/BA & large living space, in-unit W/D, C/A, elevator bldg. - check it out! x ............................................................... $139,000 COMMERCIAL RENTALS LOMBARD. HIGH-END 3BR, 2BA spacious corner unit in newer building. Tons of storage. Well- OAK PARK. OFFICE SPACES in lovely Art Deco maintained. x...........................................$310,000 bldg. 2 Elevators. Entry handicap equipped. Tenants pay electric. Public pkg. Call! Rent ranges from RENTALS ...............................................$2,616/mo to $898/mo HOMES WESTMONT. CLASSIC STORE FRONT/walk in ELMWOOD PARK. SPACIOUS COLONIAL office on busy street. 2 blocks from Metra train. w/3BRs, 1.1BAs. 3 levels of living. Updated kitchen In-suite restrooms and kitchen. Great exposure. & BAs, fireplace, hdwd flrs & C/A. ........$2,500/mo ................................................................... $1,525/mo

DESIGN SHOWROOM OPEN SUNDAY • 12-2PM Located at 139 S. Oak Park Avenue, Oak Park

3

LEFT!

Starting at $669,900

A New Standard of Luxury in Oak Park.

• • • • • • •

11 spacious, deluxe residences Close to vibrant downtown Oak Park 3 bedroom units 2 indoor parking spaces 1808-2969 sq. ft. units Spacious terraces Eco-efficient- LEED certified

Don’t Miss Pre-Construction Pricing!

EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY

December 14, 2016 ■ Wednesday Journal/Forest Park Review

B11

Distinction

...unless you select the professional who has distinguished himself by making a total commitment to excellence—Tom Carraher.

Call Tom Carraher at 708-822-0540 to achieve all of your real estate goals.

Sunday, December 18, 2016 ADDRESS

REALTY CO.

LISTING PRICE

TIME

2025 N. Newland, Chicago . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Beyond Properties Realty Group . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $359,100 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-3

ADDRESS

REALTY CO.

LISTING PRICE

TIME

641 S. Maple Ave. Unit A, Oak Park . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . @Properties . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $439,000 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12:30-2

CONDOS

It is extremely rare to find real estate professionals who set themselves apart with distinction in everything they do...

721 Ontario St. Unit 202, Oak Park . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Baird & Warner Oak Park/River Forest. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $475,000 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-3 721 Ontario St. Unit 211, Oak Park . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Gagliardo Realty Associates . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $535,000 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-3 Showroom At 139 S. Oak Park Ave., Oak Park, Il . . . . . . . . . . . . Gloor Realty Co . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $669,900 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12-2 Showroom At 139 S. Oak Park Ave. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Gloor Realty Co . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $684,900 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12-2 Showroom At 139 S. Oak Park Ave., Oak Park, Il . . . . . . . . . . . . Gloor Realty Co . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $699,000 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12-2 1133 Chicago Ave. Unit 4W, Oak Park. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Gloor Realty Co . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $699,000 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12-2

TOWNHOMES

Tom Carraher redefines the essence of real estate service.

SINGLE FAMILY HOMES

(di stingk’ shen) noun.

The act of distinguishing excellence; making a difference

ADDRESS

REALTY CO.

LISTING PRICE

TIME

318 Pennsylvania Way, Oak Park. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Baird & Warner Oak Park/River Forest. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $539,900 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12-2 1025 Walnut Way, Oak Park . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Baird & Warner Oak Park/River Forest. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $549,900 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12-2 319 Chestnut Ln, Oak Park . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Baird & Warner Oak Park/River Forest. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $554,900 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12-2

Tom Carraher

Realistic Expectation–Proven Results

This Directory brought to you by mrgloans.com

7375W. West NorthAve. Avenue 7375 North River Forest, Illinois River Forest 60305 708.771.8040 708.771.8040

http://tomcarraher.realtor.com

B12 View more at OakPark.com/Real-Estate ■ December 14, 2016

Providing financing for homes in Oak Park and surrounding communities since 1989.

Conventional, FHA, and Jumbo mortgages Free Pre-approvals

7544 W. North Avenue Elmwood Park, IL 708.452.5151

Mortgage Resource Group is an Illinois Residential Mortgage Licensee.

NMLS # 207793 License # 1031

Our team of brokers is committed to your success!

Erica Cuneen

Karen Baldwin

Shalena Thomas

Martha Murphy

Vicki May

Cynthia Howe Gajewski

Stacy Cortez

Ruby Blair

Denise Espinosa

Phil Joseph

Denise Sacks

Isaac Jordan

FEATURED PROPERTY

P

Forest Park

Galewood

Erica Cuneen • 708-220-2025

ER

D!

FEATURED PROPERTY

Riverside

Need a big house? This is it! 5 BRs, 2 full BAs + first flr fam rm and many updates. 2.5 car gar, extra pkg spc. Near FP Park District, Blue Line, shopping and restaurants. A keeper!............. .............................................................$249,900

Stunning renovation! Open concept new kit, maple cab., SS apps, grnt countertops, marble tile! Two new highend BAs. New mechanicals, plmg, floor.

Large lot. Don’t miss!!. ............ $384,000

Cynthia Howe Gajewski • 312-933-8440

Martha Murphy • 857-977-3456

PR

Space! Freshly painted throughout. 2 of 4 BRs on 1st flr. SS/Corian kitchen leads to generous yard. Basement with fireplace, new carpet, ½ bath, laundry + storage.

Near Mars Metra. 4 BR/2.5 BA ..$359,100

C RI

ED

E UC

Forest Park

Adorable 3BR/2BA home. Brand new baths, refinished hardwood floors and a newer eat-in kitchen. .............. $229,900

Erica Cuneen • 708-220-2025

IC

E ER

D

E UC

D! D UN

Oak Park

$3000 closing credit! Large, beautifully rehabbed end unit in gorgeous vintage building. New kitchen and bath.

Refinished hdwd flrs. Assigned parking, free laundry. 3 BR/1 BA........... $154,600

Erica Cuneen • 708-220-2025

ER

CO

N

A TR

CT

!

D UN

Oak Park

Extreme renovation! Open kitchen, dining, and family room opens to full covered back porch. Full 2nd flr expansion. 5 BR/4.1 BA ....... $1,075,000

Cynthia Howe Gajewski • 312-933-8440

UN

DE

R

CO

NT

C RA

T!

Montclare

708.386.1366 • 109 N. Marion St., Oak Park

ER

CO

NT

C RA

T!

Oak Park

New 3rd floor master suite in a home full of Oak park charm. Updated Kit, hdwd flrs, new siding, front porch and twotiered deck enhance this house in an ideal location. 4BR/2.1BA ...... $430,000

Erica Cuneen • 708-220-2025

D! L SO

Berwyn

2-story with addition. Intact arts and crafts. Beamed DR ceiling, art glass, oak wainscoting, plate rail. Frplc surrounded by shelves. Flexible flr plan + amazing space.

Wonderful! 4 BR/2.1 BA ...............$275,000

Energy Star Silver Certificate Award Home. Beautiful hdwd flrs. Updated island kitchen with large eating area.

Recently painted throughout, brand new carpet. 3BR/2.5 BA.......... $236,000

Cynthia Howe Gajewski • 312-933-8440

Erica Cuneen • 708-220-2025

EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY

December 14, 2016 ■ Wednesday Journal/Forest Park Review

B13

•

Thank you for choosing

in 2016!

Nickel Group

Over $155 Million in sales!

708.848.5550

www.WeichertNickelGroup.com

• Barbara Kohut • Cory Kohut • Meg Kryger • Enea Lako • Alex LeGare • Linda Little • Nick Lovett • Jeanette Madock • Linda Marcangelo • Kris McCartney • Alice Fox McMahon • Adam Murphy • Tabitha Murphy •Jeffrey O’Connor • Sarah O’Shea Munoz • Jonathan Paul

B14 View more at OakPark.com/Real-Estate ■ December 14, 2016

Hann • Mari Hans • Richard Holland • Jennifer Hosty • Mark Hosty • Evelyn Humphries • Donna Karpavicius • Zak Knebel

Michael Rabichow • Jessica Rivera • Janet Rouse • Donna Serpico • Pauline Sharpe • Marcos Sierra • Patti Sprafka Wagner • Victoria Witt

John Lawrence – Managing Broker/Owner • Susan Abbott • Dale Anderson • Adriana Cook • Lorraine Cooper • Monica Dalton • Christine DeLeon • David Dieschbourg • Michael Dmyterko • Jannie Earl • Kelly Fondow • Mitch Goldstein • Trevor Good • Priscilla Haddad • Robert

December 14, 2016 ■ Wednesday Journal/Forest Park Review

B15

P R O P E R T Y

T R A N S F E R S

1139 N. Grove Ave. home sells for $850,000

The following property transfers were reported by the Cook County Recorder of Deeds from October 1 to October 31, 2016. Where addresses appear incomplete, for instance where a unit number appears missing, that information was not provided by the recorder of deeds.

OAK PARK ADDRESS

PRICE

SELLER

BUYER

631 S Maple Ave 1139 N Grove Ave 175 N Euclid Ave 221 N Taylor Ave 501 Fair Oaks Ave 1109 Wesley Ave 705 S East Ave 600 S Scoville Ave 1235 N Grove Ave 840 S Humphrey Ave 1030 Columbian Ave 1115 S Harvey Ave 1111 S Harvey Ave 804 S Maple Ave 1109 S Elmwood Ave 137 N Ridgeland Ave 1371 206 Washington Blvd 1025 Randolph St 308 200 S Kenilworth Ave 2003N 1136 Ontario St 2B 106 S Scoville Ave 3B 800 Washington Blvd 303 222 W Washington Blvd 105 643 Madison St 142 N Harvey Ave 222 N Grove Ave 1A 418 S Lombard Ave 930 Ontario St 4B 1210 N Elmwood Ave 635 S Taylor Ave 7 Division St 1A 1047 Gunderson Ave 517 N Harvey Ave 831 Home Ave 818 Linden Ave 308 S Oak Park Ave

$1,023,000 $850,000 $825,000 $675,000 $470,000 $459,000 $449,000 $440,000 $430,000 $425,000 $420,000 $357,000 $319,500 $300,000 $260,000 $235,000 $224,000 $179,000 $173,500 $161,500 $150,000 $135,000 $128,000 $107,500 Unknown Unknown Unknown Unknown Unknown Unknown Unknown Unknown Unknown Unknown Unknown Unknown

Omanagement Llc 631 Maple Pero Hess Llc Shannon Patrick H Dowd John Peter Lombardi Anne K Lang Yelena Waters Stacy Reinspired Inc Stetsenko Vadim Javor Luke Harlow Hazel Mattucci Sandra J Barnett David Maund William H Deuel William T Nelson Diane K Cavallaro Veronica A Lewis Geoffrey G Nutting Matt Denny Steven A Tr Bertaud Mary L Kneebone Sarah E Stewart Brandon Avery Bank New York Mellon Kitsos Laura Lohmann Laurens A Morris Roy David Tr Colchamiro Martin S Newton Charles J Louie Tak C Fannie Mae Olsen Bruce H Persoon Michael Marks Jordan B Seegers Dale P Tr Kincer Timothy W

Greenplan 631 Maple Lcl Mack Eldridge R Johnston Edward Burch Jonathan Mcginn Matthew David Moroney Thomas E Schwanke Sara A Sullivan Sharada S Neppel Paul A Change Christine Pompei Andrew Lattanzi Tara J Missey Sean Walejeski Jason W Gardner Kalinda Banks Debruyn Steve Hodge Amanda Burke Judith A Tr Nutting Molly Hadala Scott A Hernandez Florencio Garcia Monica Okraku Awuraa A Rios Paola Kitsos Laura Lohmann Diane E Tr Morris Clarolyn Colchamiro Martin Steven Tr Newton Charles J 635 Taylor Llc Newton Investing Llc Olsen Bruce H Tr Persoon Michael Marks Jordan B Seegers Cynde J Kincer Timothy W

ADDRESS

PRICE

SELLER

BUYER

1185 S Lombard Ave 1329 N Harlem Ave 13294 1047 Clinton Ave 1116 Wisconsin Ave 837 N Taylor Ave

Unknown Unknown Unknown Unknown Unknown

Ranker Charles K Judicial Sales Corp Puntillo Timothy Cohen Gary Housing & Urban Development

Ranker Lorna J U S Bank Tr Puntillo Timothy C Cohen Deborah Safe & Sound Inv Llc

RIVER FOREST 921 Keystone Ave 1506 Franklin Ave 7575 Lake St 5A 134 Franklin Ave 7601 Vine St 1535 Forest Ave 206

$651,000 $625,000 $438,000 $381,000 $305,000 $210,000

Neil Nancy Tr Perpich Jane Lawrence Arthur Gene Tr Hoye Troy P Midwest Resid Llc Carnahan Caroline Lee Tr

Chen Hsing Hua Eckmann Jeffrey A Wagner Patricia S Weldon-Linne C Michael 7601 Vine St Llc Ruiz Alfonso

See PROPERTY TRANSFERS on page B18

It’s YOUR home! Protect your investment.

Title insurance is much more than just paperwork at your closing. It guarantees that your home is really yours and protects the title of your home for as long as you own it. If you are buying or refinancing your home, you have a choice.

Choose Prairie Title.

Unparalleled Expertise • Reliable Service • Local, friendly environment

That’s Prairie Title.

6819-21 W. North Avenue, Oak Park, IL 60302 | 708.386.7900 | www.prairietitle.com

B16 View more at OakPark.com/Real-Estate ■ December 14, 2016

WEST COOK YMCA

44th Annual

Christmas Tree Sale

BUY A TREE CHANGE A LIFE Joiner fee is waived with the purchase of a tree

November 25–December 24

Monday–Friday 2:00–8:00 pm Saturday & Sunday 10:00 am–6:00 pm

WEST COOK YMCA

Purchase a tree and receive a delicious sample of the West Cook Y’s Christmas Blend Coffee ABSOLUTELY FREE.

255 S. Marion St., Oak Park, IL 60302 | 708 383 5200 westcookymca.org | facebook.com/westcooky | @WestCookYMCA

December 14, 2016 ■ Wednesday Journal/Forest Park Review

B17

P R O P E R T Y

T R A N S F E R S

1026 Lathrop Ave., Forest Park

1026 Beloit Ave., Forest Park

FOREST PARK

134 Franklin Ave., River Forest Continued from page B16

RIVER FOREST 410 Ashland Ave 2D

$160,000

1541 Monroe Ave 15413 7200 Oak Ave 72002SW 1434 William St 435 Williams St 702 625 Forest Ave

$84,000 $48,000 Unknown Unknown Unknown

Chicago Title Land Trust Co Tr 0000000008576 Judicial Sales Corp Espinoza Silvia Taglia Mary E Menezes Dianella Dizon Arends Charles E Tr

Allen Nancy Tr Jca Fund 11 Llc Series 1541 Rupcich Robert J Taglia Mary Tr Menezes Ralph Tr Charles E Arneds Trust

Let us know we’ll hold your paper!

B18 View more at OakPark.com/Real-Estate ■ December 14, 2016

ADDRESS

PRICE

SELLER

BUYER

7709 Roosevelt Rd 620 Ferdinand Ave 1026 Beloit Ave 1032 Marengo Ave 1026 Lathrop Ave 845 Dunlop Ave 908 Marengo Ave 140 Marengo Ave 204 7242 Dixon St 7242B 7611 Roosevelt Rd 1021 Des Plaines Ave C308 1029 Des Plaines Ave D504 320 Circle Ave 207 829 Ferdinand Ave 150 Belvidere Ave 827 Circle Ave 825 Circle Ave

$850,000 $380,000 $369,000 $290,000 $250,000 $165,000 $155,000 $155,000 $128,500 $63,000 $60,000 $57,000 Unknown Unknown Unknown Unknown Unknown

Standard B&t Co Tr 0000000020456 Barron Brian K Baker April L Warsaw-Sengenberger Robert D Rja Cap Lp Muransky Adam M Huynh John Logalbo Frank A Lancsak Craig S Bank Amer Bolarinde Samuel O Sheehan Marie Georgiou Nicholas A Tr East Marsha D&b Mgmt Prop Llc Venetucci Jim M Tr Venetucci Jim M Tr

7709 W Roosevelt Llc Arsin Cagri Icen Diaz Daniel Hutchinson Kailey L Lyons John W Iii Broz Ireneusz Hogan Timothy J Willis Ervin Dilday Benjamin J Pantoja Laura Ines Jimenez Maria D Montejo Erdman Foro Rodriguez Georgiou Trust East Marsha A Patnode Robert J Venetucci Jim M Tr Venetucci Jim M Tr

Road Trip on the Horizon?

Email: circulation@OakPark.com

HOME FOR THE

Holidays

just listed Oak Park Rehab 3 BED // 2.5 BATH

ALL NEW: roof, garage, 200 amp electric service, plumbing, sump pump/drain tiles, HVAC, kitchens, and baths. Finished basement.

NICK VIZZONE

Call Nick for a showing!

847 CLINTON PLACE, RIVER FOREST $1,149,000 :: 4 bedrooms :: 3.5 bathrooms Classic brick Colonial home overflows with elegance and charm. Spacious and stylish rooms are enhanced with crown moldings and hardwood floors. The professionally designed chef’s kitchen offers the best of form and function. Second level features master bedroom/bath, 2 additional bedrooms + a tandem room. The third floor has a bedroom, bath & large storage space. Great location - walk to the train!

KATHY & TONY IWERSEN 708.772.8040 708.772.8041 tonyiwersen@atproperties.com

REAL ESTATE BROKER

708.256.8218 nickvizzone@atproperties.com

Let us find your home for the holidays.

Happy Holidays from all of us at Classic Properties.

OAK PARK BERWYN OPEN HOUSE SUNDAY 12:302:30PM 804 S. CARPENTER

LOCATION, LOCATION. Lincoln School District. 2 blocks to blue line, restaurants & more. Good size rooms. 4 bedrooms on 2nd floor. Stop by and see this home. .............................................................................$239,900

GREAT LOCATION. Sharp large 2 flat. Huge apartments with large kitchens with breakfast nook. Being sold in “AS IS” condition. .......$279,000

Agent : Margie Bidinger

Agent.: Joni AJ Chandler

MAYWOOD

GREAT NORTH MAYWOOD LOCATION. Custom built brick quad home. Lots of space in this multi level home. 3 bedrooms, 3 1/2 baths.

Wood burning fireplace. 2 car garage & beautiful fenced yard. .... $290,000

Agent: Joni AJ Chandler

1009-11 W. Madison St. • 708.524.8400 forestparkreview.com

oakpark.com

rblandmark.com

www.classicproperties.us Serving the Oak Park/River Forest Area for Over 20 years December 14, 2016 ■ Wednesday Journal/Forest Park Review

B19

May your Home be filled with Love, Warmth and Joy this Holiday and throughout the coming year!

CALL PATTI SPRAFKA WAGNER ACCREDITED STAGING PROFESSIONAL and a CERTIFIED LUXURY HOME MARKETING SPECIALIST

(708) 218-8102 • pswagner@live.com www.PattiWagner.com www.OakParkRiverForestRealEstate.com

Nickel Group

UNDER CONTRACT WITH MULTIPLE BIDS 2BR, 2 BA CONDO, in the heart of town, includes 2 covered parking spaces! Updated maple cabinet kitchen, great closet space, and laundry is allowed to be installed in your unit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $211,500

4+ BR, 3.1 BA HOME that’s deceivingly spacious! New dream kitchen/ family room boasts every amenity, including a cappuccino machine!

Luxurious master suite & lower level guest suite . . . . . . . . . . . $711,000

3 BR, 1 BA DUTCH COLONIAL home with hardwood floors and Living Room woodburning fireplace, needs some updating to make it shine again .

Roomy master bedroom has two closets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $249,000

3+ BR, 3.1 BA VICTORIAN with amazing master suite with vaulted ceiling, walk-in closet & gorgeous private bath . Hardwood floors, fantastic island kitchen with endless cabinet space & charm! . . . . . . . . . . . . . $639,000

2 BR, 2 BA CONDO in the heart of Oak Park with brand new oak flooring throughout! Master bath, granite counter kitchen, parking space & laundry is allowed right in your unit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $178,000

3+ BR, 2.1 BA BRICK side entrance Colonial home with natural woodwork, stunning leaded glass doors & woodturning fireplace . New tear off roof, updated kitchen & 2 car garage with side drive . . .$549,000

101 N. Oak Park Avenue, Oak Park, Illinois 60301 B20 View more at OakPark.com/Real-Estate ■ December 14, 2016

A Community Giving Guide

S

The Most Wonderful Guide of The Year!

eason of Giving is a campaign organized

by Wednesday Journal and the Oak Park River Forest Community Foundation to encourage local charitable giving during the holiday season. It has long been recognized that when we shop local, our money recirculates

Animal Care League No matter how long it takes, the Animal Care League keeps an adoptable animal until we find that right loving home. We take proactive approaches to animal care and adoption as well as preventative measures to help reduce the number of homeless animals in our communities. The Animal Care League provides medical treatment for over 1,000 animals each year ranging from routine vaccinations to emergency, life-saving surgery.

Make a meaningful difference in the life of a homeless animal. Visit animalcareleague. org, where you can sign up to be a volunteer or donate. You can also donate your gently used items to the 2nd Chance shop, and attend one of many fun special events.

The Collaboration for Early Childhood The Collaboration for Early Childhood is your resource for early childhood information in Oak Park and River Forest. We provide the connections vital to every child’s opportunity for success in learning and in life. We work with more than 60 organizations so that parents and their children receive critical information and support services, children are screened for developmental delays, teachers in child care centers, preschools and family child care homes provide high quality programs and our most vulnerable children and their families experience a strong web of support.

For more information, or to make a donation, please visit us at collab4kids.org or follow us on Facebook.

Cluster Tutoring

through the local economy reaping dividends for the entire community. The same is true for charitable giving. When you donate to local nonprofits, your money goes to work in your own neighborhood.

Your donations feed local families, offer safety and learning to local children, and enrich the beauty and

potential through learning in an environment that strengthens the students, the tutors, and the community. The program’s emphasis is on reading as a means to academic success and the development of mentoring relationships between caring adults and youth.

Tutors receive training and ongoing support.

Tutoring space is donated by First United Church of Oak Park and Pine Avenue Church.

To volunteer or to donate, please contact Kara Kalnitz at 773-378-5530 and visit clustertutoring.org.

Oak Park-River Forest Community Foundation The Oak Park-River Forest Community Foundation encourages giving locally, providing donors with many ways to contribute to the sustainability and vibrancy of Oak Park and River Forest. We manage scholarships for students and provide enrichment grants for young people. We make grants to local nonprofit organizations, provide Impact Excellence seminars for them as well as manage many of their agency funds.

We accept large gifts and small gifts. We work with donors to match their philanthropic interests with needs. We create spaces for donors to collectively give for impact through our Women Leaders in Philanthropy, Entrepreneur Leaders in Philanthropy and NextGen Leaders in Philanthropy Giving Groups. All of this is possible thanks to generous and thoughtful donors who value our community. www.oprfcf.org www.facebook.org/OPRFCF Twitter: community@oprfcf 708-848-1560 1049 Lake Street, Suite 204, Oak Park, IL 60301 Donate on line at: http://tinyurl.com/kf2rcnn

College Mentoring Experience The Cluster Tutoring Program is a community-based organization that provides free, one-to-one tutoring for youth in grades K through 12 from the Austin neighborhood.

Our mission is to help students realize their

Studies show that children in mentoring programs are less likely to be engage in deviant activities and relationships with parents often increase. College Mentoring

art that surrounds us all. Over the coming weeks, we hope that you will take a moment to look over the listings in this Giving Guide. Find an organization that resonates with you. Check out their website.

Consider making a donation or volunteering. Spread the word. Don’t just shop local—give Local.

Experience is a 501c3/non-for-profit community based mentoring program servicing the Austin community. Through one-on-one mentoring to at-risk students ages 11-22, CME’s focus is to provide our mentees with the resources and tools needed to get them TO and THROUGH college; providing tutoring, career exploration and life skills development as alternatives to negative learning behaviors.

This Season of Giving, won’t you please help us by donating? For more information visit www.collegementoringexperience. org for additional information about our organization and donations. EVERY gift of EVERY SIZE matters!

Concordia University Chicago Founded in 1864, Concordia University Chicago is a comprehensive liberal arts-based Christian university in the Lutheran tradition. Through its College of Arts and Sciences, College of Business, College of Education, and College of Graduate and Innovative Programs, Concordia-Chicago offers more than 100 areas of study in small classes taught by professors who are passionate about teaching and student success. Concordia-Chicago equips men and women to serve and lead with integrity, creativity, competence and compassion in a diverse, interconnected and increasingly urbanized church and world. More than 5,000 full-time undergraduate and graduate students are enrolled at Concordia-Chicago, located in River Forest.

Oak Park Festival Theatre Since 1975 Oak Park Festival Theatre, the Midwest’s oldest professional outdoor classical theatre, has brought the magic of dramatic masterpieces to generations of our neighbors. Whether performing under the stars in beautiful Austin Gardens as we do each summer or at any of the many local venues where we partner with local philanthropic agencies (such as Housing Forward, Oak Park Housing Authority or Nineteenth Century Charitable Association), Festival Theatre breaths fresh air into timeless texts for Oak Park and beyond.

With ticket prices kept friendly for every

budget and free admission for all under 13, we rely on the generosity of our audiences to continue our dynamic community dialogue.

Donations can be made on-line at oakparkfestival.com or mailed to us: Oak Park Festival Theatre, P.O. Box 4114, Oak Park, IL 60303.

Forest Park Historical Society The Historical Society of Forest Park is dedicated to the preservation, collection and celebration of Forest Park History. We study the past so we can understand the present so we can shape the future. The Historical Society in Forest Park is an important part of the social infrastructure of our community. We partner with many groups to enhance the quality of life in our village.

1000 Elgin, Forest Park IL 60130 To make a donation, volunteer or to get more information, go to forestparkhistory. weebly.com.

Frank Lloyd Wright Trust Inspiring tomorrow’s architects today. Our D97 program has introduced thousands of students to Wright’s design legacy. Our community’s vitality is enhanced by the mission of the Frank Lloyd Wright Trust. Through its stewardship of the Home and Studio, the Trust continues to preserve an Oak Park treasure as a source of community pride and inspiration.

To learn more or donate, go to flwright.org 931 Chicago Ave, Oak Park, IL 60302

Friends of the Oak Park Conservatory The Oak Park Conservatory is a gem in our community. The Friends of the Oak Park Conservatory is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization that helps make the Conservatory a community destination. We have over 150 volunteers and a membership over 700. We offer guided tours by volun-

December 14, 2016 ■ Wednesday Journal/Forest Park Review

B21

teers, free children’s programming, including Exploration Station and Toddler Exploration Time, and host Uncorked in the Summer.

We are proud of our Discovery Garden and Rubinstein Garden and partnership with the PDOP in supporting the Conservatory.

Please visit fopcon.org to donate or volunteer. 615 Garfield, Oak Park, 60304.

Contact Beth Cheng, Executive Director at 708-725-2460.

Hephzibah

Hephzibah Children’s Association was founded in 1897. We serve more than 1,000 children and families each year through innovative, community-based programs.

Hephzibah provides a Group Home for children who have been taken from their families due to profound abuse or neglect.

Our skilled staff recruits and trains foster parents, and offers ongoing support to help all family members navigate challenges.

Our after-school Day Care operates on a sliding scale to serve working parents in Oak Park, with programs based at each elementary school.

To make a real difference in the lives of children and families, please donate today at hephzibahhome.org.

Housing Forward The mission of Housing Forward is to transition people from housing crisis to housing stability. By emphasizing prevention, supportive services, employment readiness and supportive housing, we are able to offer a comprehensive, long-term solution that moves clients into housing quickly and keeps them there.

This housing-first approach to homelessness is more efficient, more fiscally responsible and less traumatic to clients who are typically facing extraordinary hardship. It is also beneficial to the communities being served who do not have to bear the costs of homelessness in the form of expanded social services, health care and public safety costs.

We offer an attractive return on your investment — measured in terms of human lives and futures.

To donate, please visit housingforward. org/give, or contact Janet Gow, Director of Development & Communications, at 708.338.1724 ext. 262.

L’Arche Chicago L’Arche Chicago is a community where people with intellectual disabilities live together with direct support professionals, in homes, as family. We strive to merge quality care and mutual relationships, building a community where everyone has a genuine place of belonging. L’Arche seeks to be a sign of hope, revealing the truth that all people, including those with intellectual disabilities, have gifts to share.

Your contributions enable each core member (person with intellectual disability) to live an independent, full life in our vibrant homes of love and compassion in the OPRF area.

To donate or get involved, visit LArcheChicago.org/OPRF

The Neighborhood Giving Project Many parents are eager to teach their children about the importance and the rewards of helping others. The Neighborhood Giving Project is a 501c3 non-profit organization providing community service opportunities for busy families in the Oak Park-River Forest area. Our mission is to inspire our children to be better citizens of the world by providing hands-on, hands-together community service opportunities; to enrich their learning with civic responsibility, social justice, and charitable action.

Partnering with local organizations, NGP develops service projects that are developmentally appropriate for children, and also genuinely fun. Topics include hunger and homelessness, education and literacy, family health, animal care, and more.

To learn more about getting involved or to make a donation, go to neighborhoodgivingproject.org

Nineteenth Century Charitable Association The Nineteenth Century Club was established in 1891 and the spirit of the founders continues today in the work of the Nineteenth Century Charitable Association through community outreach grants, scholarships, and public programming in five areas: music, art, literature, science, and social sciences. The NCCA is the owner of 178 Forest Avenue, commonly referred to as the Nineteenth Century Club. Our charitable and cultural activities are supported by our members, volunteers, donors, and by the events held at the Club. Programs are open to all and we welcome men and women of all ages to join.

If you would like information about volunteering, joining or donating, please call us at 708-386-2729 email to info@ nineteenthcentury.org.

Oak-Leyden Developmental Services In 2016, Oak-Leyden Developmental Services helped nearly 600 children and adults with developmental disabilities reach their highest potential. Our multi-disciplinary Early Intervention Program provides therapies to help prepare young children for their years ahead, as well as education that supports the entire family. Our enriching, adult day programs offer community activities, life skills coaching, and vocational training. In our 12 group homes, adults receive residential care, social and recreational opportunities, and access to healthcare providers.

B22 View more at OakPark.com/Real-Estate ■ December 14, 2016

Transforming lives

Each year, neighbors choosing to give locally are supporting the power to transform lives. Take, for example, the recent $500 gift to the Oak Park Public Library from the Schwab Charitable Fund that was earmarked for adult literacy in memory of a loyal library patron. Twenty-six new Main Library titles in the Rapid Reads Series now offer contemporary, entertaining plots and come with

tutor tools for testing comprehension and discussion. Adult Education Librarian Rashmi Swain was thrilled to be able to fulfill an Oak Park literacy volunteer’s request with the donated funds. “The new titles are perfect for instilling foundational reading skills, and for fostering a continued love of reading,” Swain said.

Give oPRF Please volunteer, donate items on our wish list, make a contribution, or become an OakLeyden Enrichment Partner at oak-leyden.org or call 708-524-1050 x102.

Oak Park Art League Founded in 1921, the Oak Park Art League (OPAL) is one of Oak Park’s first cultural institutions and fulfills its mission through its offering of high quality art education to people of all ages and skill levels, programs and guest lectures, artist demonstrations and critiques, plus monthly exhibitions in OPAL’s historic Carriage House art gallery. On Giving Tuesday, leave your legacy of support by sponsoring a Century Club limited edition brick in OPAL’s garden courtyard. Purchase a personalized brick for yourself, a business, or honor a loved one and help pave the path to OPAL’s centennial anniversary in 2021.

720 Chicago Avenue/708-386-9853 oakparkartleague@gmail.com oakparkartleague.org

The Oak Park Education Foundation (OPEF) Strong schools are at the heart of a strong community.

Established in 1989, OPEF is a privately funded, nonprofit organization that brings artists, architects, scientists, and technology experts into K-8th grade classrooms at every District 97 school. Our professional partners share their passion for learning while conducting free, hands-on residencies with more than 4,200 students annually. OPEF also runs BASE Camp, exceptional summer and day-off enrichment. Learn more, volunteer or donate at opef.org.

260 Madison St., Oak Park, IL 60302 Contact: Deb Abrahamson, Exec. Dir., dabrahamson@opef.org. 708-524-3023

Oak Park Public Library Support literacy, learning, and community connection When you give locally, you can choose to share a gift that nurtures ideas and spreads knowledge in and around Oak Park. You can support the freedom to read, to learn, and to grow. Loyalty to your local public library helps a 113-year-old institution, dedicated to literacy and community connection, continue to be free and accessible to all.

To learn more about how you can make a difference and keep Oak Park’s center of information, local history, and civic engagement strong, contact Executive Director David J. Seleb (d.seleb@ oppl.org, 708.697.6911) or Deputy Director Jim Madigan (jmadigan@oppl. org,708.697.6909).

Oak Park Regional Housing Center The Housing Center promotes and sustains the racial integration of Oak Park. We help over 3,500 households and 250 landlords annually.

The Housing Center provides the foundation for equity and inclusion in Oak Park. Your gift helps keep Oak Park’s promise of diversity that we all cherish.

To donate visit: oprhc.org/donate or make checks payable to OPRHC, 1041 South Boulevard, Oak Park, IL 60302

Oak Park River Forest Food Pantry $1 = 3 meals, is an equation only you can make possible. With your help, Oak Park River Forest Food Pantry has been reducing local hunger for nearly 40 years.

Your support means we are able to meet the needs of nearly 16,000 families struggling with hunger each year. It means we can provide over 50 pounds of nutritious food plus access to vital programs and services to help people stretch limited food budgets in healthy ways. It means that even a little goes a long way: every $1 donated can feed a neighbor for an entire day.

To make a donation, visit oprffoodpantry. org or send checks payable to OPRF Food Pantry to Oak Park River Forest Food Pantry, 848 Lake Street, Oak Park, IL 60301.

PACCT PACTT Learning Center is committed to empowering people challenged by autism with choice in regard to where they live, learn and work. PACTT’s mission is to assist individuals with autism in becoming as independent as possible with the ability to integrate effectively into their homes and

Frank and Mary Pellegrini, Prairie Title Services

Frank and Mary Pellegrini take a personal approach in their business that assures customers a smooth process in real estate endeavors. Since 1982, Prairie Title Services provides access to talented real estate professionals who manage title transfers, escrow operations, legal, and other services that help buyers achieve their dream of home ownership. They now support nine offices serving eight counties in the Chicago area, including their Corporate Headquarters here in Oak Park.

Longtime Oak Park residents, Frank and Mary remain committed to sustaining arts and culture in this community. The Oak Park Art League (OPAL) is grateful for the Pellegrini’s ongoing support, serving as major sponsors for annual fundraisers while their Oak Park office provides a satellite gallery space for local artists to exhibit and sell their artwork. In 2017, Prairie Title will be the presenting sponsor for an Oak Park Art League regional exhibition that will showcase the Midwest’s finest artists at OPAL’s historic Carriage House gallery.

In celebration of the Oak Park Art League’s 95th milestone anniversary the Pellegrini’s are participating in

community. At the core of this mission is to see each individual as a unique gift and then provide the person-centered supports that foster learning and growth. PACTT programs include a therapeutic day school, residential services for children, transition program for older teens, vocational training/job placement and residential services for adults.

To learn more about PACTT or make a donation, go to pactt.org or call 773-3389102 ext. 2424

Pillars Pillars is the largest nonprofit provider of mental health and social services in the western and southwestern suburbs. The agency serves 10,000 people each year through direct client services, including Mental Health, Addictions, Domestic & Sexual Violence, Child & Family Services, and Community Housing.

Untreated mental illness and addiction can lead to hospitalization, encounters with law enforcement, violence, and even early death. Pillars’ programs empower people to break out of those cycles and lead healthy, productive, independent lives—which ultimately saves the community money. Stand together as Pillars, with us.

Donate online or pledge a monthly gift today at www.pillarscommunity.org/donate.

OPAL’s Century Club campaign by sponsoring a personalized, limited edition Century Club brick in OPAL’s garden courtyard. With this support, the Oak Park Art League is able to continue its mission for future generations, providing access to the arts through high quality art classes, programs and guest lectures and monthly gallery exhibitions. For more information about OPAL’s Century Club campaign, go to: oakparkartleague.org

Frank & Mary Pellegrini

Give oPRF

Ping!

PING! (Providing Instruments for the Next Generation) is an allvolunteer organization that loans musical instruments to students in need in grades 4-12 in Oak Park-River Forest school districts 90, 97, and 200 so that they can participate in their school band or orchestra. PING! also provides music enrichment for its students through workshops, mentoring, summer music camp scholarships, private lessons, and field trips.

PING! serves between 125 and 150 students each year who would not otherwise have the opportunity to participate in the music programs at school.

PING! depends on the community for donated instruments and financial contributions to maintain our instrument inventory and program funding.

For more information or to make a donation, go to pingoprf.org. If you have an instrument to donate, send us an email at pingoprf@ gmail.com.

The River Forest Library Foundation Since 1905, the River Forest Public Library (RFPL) has been transforming lives and nurturing a love of reading and learning in children, teens, and adults. Today, as a 21st century library, the RFPL not only provides the latest books and periodicals, but also digital content, remote online access, onsite computer technology, and interactive educational programs By giving to the RFPL Foundation, a 501(c)(3) organization, you can honor a parent, child, or other family member; a cherished teacher or mentor; a dear friend; or your own love of learning. Your gift will inspire others and help to ensure that the Library will always be here to grow and change with us.

Mail donations to the RFPL Foundation at 735 Lathrop Ave, River Forest, IL 60305, or go to riverforestlibrary. org/donate.

Sarah’s Inn

Pleasant Home Pleasant Home Foundation, a nonprofit organization, restores and preserves our National Historic Landmark house museum while offering a wide variety of educational opportunities, cultural programming and free community events.

Financial support is crucial to sustain Pleasant Home as an important resource for tourism and as a center for the community.

217 Home Avenue, Oak Park, IL 60302 pleasanthome.org, hruehlemay@ pleasanthome.org 708-383-2654

Pro Bono Network Access to justice should not depend upon one’s income. During this time of need, there are not enough lawyers to help people with human rights needs. These include safety from an abuser, adequate housing, and the ability to get a job. Pro Bono Network, a locally-grown and new kind of organization, has brought over 200 attorneys to pro bono work by making legal representation practical. As a result over 1000 clients have received legal aid services which often encompass human rights.

Learn more at pro-bono-network.org.

Donating will make a difference!

Since 1981, Sarah’s Inn has worked to improve the lives of those impacted by domestic violence and to break the cycle of violence for future generations. Our Intervention Program provides bi-lingual services for families affected by domestic violence in order to safely navigate crisis, effectively process trauma and ensure self-sufficiency. Our Training and Education Program creates a network of skilled bystanders to appropriately intervene as first responders and community advocates.

Our Together Strong Project was created to prevent relationship violence by teaching youth about the impact of their choices, giving them the tools to lead healthy lives, and empowering them to make a difference in their community.

To donate, visit donatenow.networkforgood. org/sarahsinn, or make a tax-deductible donation through postal mail by sending a check to: Sarah’s Inn, PO Box 1159 Oak Park, IL 60304

The Symphony of Oak Park & River Forest Each year The Symphony of Oak Park & River Forest receives support from loyal patrons and generous friends. Ticket sales provide less than half the funds needed for the Symphony’s performances. Your gift keeps this award-winning orchestra going strong, allowing us to keep our ticket prices low and provide free tickets to students through college to our concerts held at Dominican University.

This year we celebrate our 85th Anniversary and your help is needed to ensure our future.

We will reward donations of $100 (or more!) with a complementary ticket to our February 12 BEETHOVEN’s 9th concert or a free CD of our April Symphony Center concert.

Make your end-of-year tax-deductible donation at symphonyoprf.com, or: P.O. Box 3564, Oak Park, IL 60303-3564.

December 14, 2016 ■ Wednesday Journal/Forest Park Review

B23

Thrive Counseling Center

Make a difference in the lives of people with disabilities. Donate online at ucpseguin. org send gifts to UCP Seguin, 332 Harrison Street, Oak Park IL 60304

West Cook YMCA Thrive Counseling Center (formerly Family Services of Oak Park) has provided community mental health services for 118 years. Located in the heart of Oak Park, our mission is to build healthy minds, families and communities by empowering people to attain mental and emotional well-being. Hope, resilience and recovery form the heart of our programs and services. Last year we provided critical services to approximately 2,000 friends, neighbors and family members including…

• counseling for youth and adults • psychiatric care and medication management • 24/7 crisis intervention • in-home counseling for older adults • case management and supportive housing • psycho-social recovery day program • stress reduction courses To learn more or donate, please visit thrivecc.org. or call 708-383-7500, ext. 316.

Follow us on Facebook!

UCP Seguin of Greater Chicago UCP Seguin believes that all people, regardless of ability, deserve to achieve their potential, advance their independence and act as full members of the community. So we stop at nothing to provide life skills training, assistive technology, meaningful employment and a place to call home for people with disabilities, as well as specialized foster care for children.

Our goal: life without limits for people with disabilities.

It’s our passion at the West Cook YMCA that financial need should never stand in the way of anyone who wants to achieve vitality and improve their well-being.

YMCA scholarships cover everything from memberships and class fees to after-school programs and summer day camps for children. Community support makes it possible for us to provide more than $120,000 in scholarships to local residents for Y programs and memberships each year. Your holiday donation will help even more neighbors receive the gift of healthy living.

To donate, visit WestCookYMCA.org/ donate or send your check to West Cook YMCA, 255 S. Marion St., Oak Park, IL 60302,

THANK YO U !

To the sponsors of Oak Park River Forest Food Pantry’s annual concert.

708-383-5200

Wonder Works Children’s Museum Creative and imaginative play are vital to a healthy child and Wonder Works Children’s Museum provides countless opportunities for both, giving children a safe space to explore. Wonder Works is committed to providing an environment where early learning flourishes through thoughtfully designed “experience zones” and educational programming.

Rachel Rettberg CEO Wonder Works Children’s Museum 6445 W North Ave, Oak Park IL 60302 773.636.7971 rrettberg@wonder-works.org wonder-works.org www.facebook.com/ wonderworkschildrensmusem

PRESENTING SPONSORS: The Moller Family Foundation Bill & Emily Reedy

PREMIERE EVENT SPONSORS: Forest Agency Insurance

Giving Guide Sponsors:

Sober Grid

Gibbons, Fortman & Associates

Community Bank of Oak Park River Forest Kopecky Schumacher Rosenburg PC

EVENT SPONSORS: Blue Cab

Sassetti, CPA

Buzz Café

West Cook YMCA

MB Financial Bank B24 View more at OakPark.com/Real-Estate ■ December 14, 2016

We help you give back.

How is up to you.

“This is a great time for the entire community to invest in the Community Foundation.”--John & Linda Tibensky, donors

If you or your family has had a liquidity event or significant income this year, consider establishing a Donor Advised Fund with us right here in your community. We have the staff and experience to work with you to give locally and/or elsewhere around the country.

A donor-advised fund, or DAF, allows donors to make a charitable contribution and receive a tax deduction this year and then recommend grants from the fund over time. Establishing a DAF with the Oak Park-River Forest Community Foundation in 2016 is a smart move. With uncertainty on the tax front – including potential limitations on the charitable contribution deduction – 2016 is an excellent year to give into a DAF, take the deduction this year, and continue to make meaningful contributions to organizations in future years.

A donor-advised fund is like a charitable savings account: a donor contributes to the fund as frequently as they like and then recommends grants to their favorite charity when they are ready. While we can manage any size DAF over $10,000, DAF’s of $500,000+ can continue to be managed by your current Financial Advisor. Set up with us is easy and takes a minimum amount of your time.

Connect with Kristin Carlson Vogen or Rhea Yap kcvogen@oprfcf.org | ryap@oprfcf.org 1049 Lake Street, Suite 204, Oak Park | 708-848-1560 or visit us at: www oprfcf.org | facebook.com/OPRFCF

Donate to the Fund for Now https://v.gd/7cO3Kb

Donate to the Fund for Forever https://v.gd/BR71VE

December 14, 2016 ■ Wednesday Journal/Forest Park Review

B25

A GUIDE TO AREA CHURCH SERVICES

Christmas 2016

B26 View more at OakPark.com/Real-Estate â– December 14, 2016

Celebrate the Season Celebrate the Season

Unity Temple Unitarian Universalist Congregation Christmas Eve Holiday Services Winter Solstice Celebration Tuesday, December 20 :: 7 p.m.

Christmas Eve Holiday Pageant/Worship for All Ages :: 3 p.m.

Magnificat by Dietrich Buxtehude :: 7:30 p.m.

Candlelight Services :: 8 and 11 p.m.

Christmas Day 11 a.m. service

Come pray with us as we welcome the Word Made Flesh among us, He who is our hope and joy, Jesus Christ our Lord!

Christmas Eve

Saturday, December 24 3:30 pm – A Child's Christmas Traditional music featuring our children's choirs 4:00 pm – Family Mass -------6:00 pm – Mass Sounds of the Season accompanied by organ, flute and brass --------

9:30 pm – A Classic Christmas A program of festive choral music & traditional carols accompanied by organ, flute, and brass 10:00 pm – Mass -----------------

Christmas Day

Sunday, December 25 9:00 am Mass A Contemporary Christmas with guitar, flute, and brass --------

Join us at our temporary home: United Lutheran Church 409 Greenfield, Oak Park

11:00 am Mass Traditional Christmas music with organ, flute, and brass

7600 W. Lake Street, River Forest

Advent & Christmas Schedule 2016

Saint Bernardine Parish

Advent Penance Service Thursday, December 15 • 7:00 pm Christmas Eve Saturday, December 24 • Family Mass at 5:00 pm Caroling at 10:00 pm • High Mass at 10:30 pm Christmas Day Sunday, December 25 • Masses at 8:00 a.m. and 10:30 am New Year’s Eve Saturday, December 31 • Mass at 5:00 pm New Year’s Day Sunday, January 1 • Masses at 8:00 am & 10:30 am

Blue Christmas Service Sunday, December 18, 5 p.m.

United Lutheran Church 409 Greenfield Street, Oak Park

Not filled with Christmas joy and happiness?

The Blue Christmas Service offers a safe place to bring your grief, fear and loss when you don’t feel hopeful or want to celebrate Christmas.

Brief readings. Quiet and reflective music.

Concludes with communion.

All are welcome.

7246 W. Harrison St. • Forest Park, IL 708/366-0839 www.stbern.com December 14, 2016 ■ Wednesday Journal/Forest Park Review

B27

ST. GILES WE WELCOME YOU THIS

CHRISTMAS SEASON! CHRISTMAS EVE • Saturday, December 24 CHRISTMAS EVE • Thursday, Dec. 24 8:30Morning a.m. Morning No Mass Mass (No 6:30 a.m.)

3:00 p.m. Children’s Children’sChristmas ChristmasMass MassininChurch Church 3:15 p.m. Additional Additional Parish ParishChristmas ChristmasMass MassininGym Gym 5:00 p.m. Youth/Teen Youth/TeenMass Mass(with (withTeen TeenChoir) Choir)ininChurch Church 5:00 p.m.

7:30 Family Mass MassCommunity CommunityMass MassininGym Gym 7:30 p.m. p.m. Family (Carols at (Carols 7:00 p.m.) at 7:00PM) 10:30 p.m.

ChristmasVigil VigilMass MassininChurch Church(Carols (Carolsatat10:00 10:00p.m.) p.m.)

10:30 p.m. Christmas CHRISTMASDAY DAY• Friday, • Sunday, 25 CHRISTMAS Dec.December 25 9:009:00 andand 11:00 a.m.a.m.

(No(No 5:005:00 p.m.p.m.

Mass) 11:00 Mass) The HOLY HOLYFAMILY FAMILY JESUS, MARY JOSEPH The of of JESUS, MARY and and JOSEPH Friday, December 6:304:30 andp.m.

8:30 a.m.

Saturday, December30:26th: Sunday, Decemberof27th: 7:45, 9:30, a.m. of andGod 5:00 p.m.

SOLEMNITY MARY, The11:15 Mother NEW YEAR’Sof MARY, The Mother of God SOLEMNITY Saturday, December 31: 8:00 a.m., 4:30 p.m. Vigil Mass NEW YEAR’S Sunday, 1: 9:00 Thursday,January December 31st: and 6:30,11:00 8:30 a.m. a.m., 5:00 p.m. Vigil Mass (No p.m. Mass) Friday,5:00 January 1st: 9:00 and 11:00 a.m. (only) The EPIPHANY EPIPHANY LORD The of of thethe LORD Saturday, January 4:30p.m. p.m.

Saturday, January2nd: 7: 4:30 Sunday, January 7:45,9:30, 9:30,11:15 11:15a.m. a.m.and and5:00 5:00p.m. p.m.

Sunday, January3rd: 8: 7:45, Weekly WeeklyConfessions: Confessions: Saturdays 8:30-9:00AM Saturdays 8:30-9:00 a.m.

Rev. Carl CarlMorello, Morello,Pastor Pastor Rev. Rev. Resident Rev. Edward EdwardSalmon, Salmon, Resident Rev. Rev. Thomas ThomasUnz, Unz,Resident Resident

St. John Evangelical Lutheran Church Christmas Worship

To you a child is born who is Christ the King

Christmas Eve Family Candlelight Service - 5:00 p.m.

Candlelight Communion Service - 10:30 p.m.

Pre-Service Music - 10:00 p.m.

all are welcome

Jazz Prayer

Friday, December 16, 7:30p Christmas Carols

Sing along or enjoy live jazz with upbeat arrangements filled with jazz riffs. Join us at 7:10p for pre-performance refreshments.

Christmas Eve

Family Service, 5p

Christmas Day Communion Service - 10:00 a.m.

New Year’s Eve Service 7:00 p.m. (Hymn Sing)

Sunday, January 1, 2017

Child-friendly service

Traditional Candlelight Service, 11p

(Pre-service music begins 10:30p)

Service of Carols, 10:30a

St. John Evangelical Lutheran Church

St. Giles Church, 1045 N. Columbian Avenue, Oak Park, IL On the corner of Columbian and Greenfield

(Two blocks south of North Avenue - Three blocks east of Oak Park Avenue)

Ph: 708-383-3430 • Web: stgilesparish.org

Christmas Day

One Service 9:30 a.m.

305 Circle Avenue, Forest Park (708) 366-3226 Rev. Leonard R. Payton, Pastor Rev. Roney Riley, Assistant Pastor Wheelchair Access to Sanctuary

Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, ELCA 611 Randolph at East Ave. Oak Park • 708-848-4741 goodshepherdlc.org

Come home for the holidays and connect. Sunday Service is at 11:00 am.

Annual Christmas Pageant and Carol Sing • Sunday, December 18th at 5:30pm

The holidays are just around the corner!

Run your holiday service information in the most widely-read local newspapers!

Christmas Guides Mary Ellen Nelligan at 708/613-3342

or email: maryellen@oakpark.com

B28 View more at OakPark.com/Real-Estate ■ December 14, 2016

Christmas Church Guide Wednesday Journal Christmas Morning Service at 11:00am Forest Park Review Dec. 14, 2016 First Congregational Church 1/8 p, vertical

Christmas Eve Candlelight Service • Saturday, December 24th at 7:00pm

of Maywood

Please like us on Facebook

400 North 5th Avenue • Maywood, IL 60153 (708) 344-6150 www.firstchurchofmaywood.org

Keep Christmas with us.

Happy

Holidays!

Wednesday Journal, December 14, 2016

OAKPARK.COM | RIVERFOREST.COM

Integrate.

Enrich.

Empower.

DD Consortium Agencies Aspire aspirechicago.com Community Support Services cssservices.org Oak-Leyden Developmental Services oak-leyden.org Oak Park Township Senior Services oakparktownship.org/departments/seniors

Through your generous contributions, the Oak Park Developmental Disabilities Consortium achieved meaningful goals this year. Our agencies’ participants were empowered by the skills they learned through early intervention, senior and family support, employment in local businesses, volunteering opportunities, health and wellness activities, and much more.

The outreach efforts and community living arrangements our agencies provide benefit our entire community.

Let’s work together to continue to help people with developmental disabilities reach their full potential. Please consider a year-end donation to further the mission of one of our Consortium’s agencies.

Connect. Volunteer. Donate. facebook.com/OakParkDDC • cmhb.networkofcare.org riverforesttownship.org/mhservices Sponsored by the Community Mental Health Board of Oak Park Township. Funded in part by River Forest Township.

Community Mental Health Board of Oak Park Township

Opportunity Knocks opportunityknocksnow.org PACTT Learning Center pactt.org Riveredge Hospital riveredgehospital.com Seguin RCA seguinrca.org Suburban Access, Inc. subacc.org The Answer, Inc. theanswerinc.org UCP Seguin of Greater Chicago ucpseguin.org West Suburban Special Recreation wssra.net

21

22

Wednesday Journal, December 14, 2016

OAKPARK.COM | RIVERFOREST.COM

Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah, Joyous Kwanzaa, Feliz Navidad, Joyeux Noel….

Forest Agency wishes you a wonderful holiday!

Fred Arkin

Linda Carrera

Mike Frontzak Bonnie Casper

Bobbie Box

Cathy Hall

Melissa Keshen

David Klans

Nichole Hoppe

Maria Lopez Katherine Knoepke

Cristine Saucedo

Matt Sullivan

Dan Browne

Gina Robbins

Jeanine Veldman

Cecilia Saavedra

Diane Villagomez

708.383.9000 | www.forestagency.com

Wednesday Journal, December 14, 2016

VIEWPOINTS

DEADLINE FOR SUBMISSIONS IS FRIDAY 5 P.M. Call Viewpoints editor Ken Trainor at 613-3310 ktrainor@wjinc.com

23

Tom Cofsky on running for re-election to the high school board p. 27

A walk beats a drink by a mile, or two

L

ife is funny. One thing leads to another.

I’ve grown a little bit too fond of drinking an Old Fashioned before dinner. So I began a protocol of substituting a walk for a drink at dusk.

One of my promenades took me past the Dole branch of the Oak Park Library. On a whim, I decided to go in. Now I have been there a number of times, but it had been a while.

Inevitably, I compared the Dole branch to the main one. It is so much smaller, older and darker. There aren’t nearly as many books, magazines or activities. As I walked the stacks, the choice of books was pretty limited, particularly the history and philosophy sections.

As I resumed my walk, I questioned just why the village really needs the expense of two branches when we have a centrally located main facility, and if you want a book, Amazon can get it to you within 24 hours.

But as I continued my reflection, I remembered that the Dole branch had been packed that Sunday afternoon. There were lots of single individuals reading the newspaper, doing homework or on the computers. There were a number of parents there reading or checking out books with their kids. There were some older folks just sitting in the chairs.

Then it hit me. I needed to look at the experience of going to the Dole library not from my perspective but that of others. I’m fortunate to have home computer service. I have magazines and newspapers delivered to my door. I can order books online. I can drive or walk to the main library.

That afternoon, there were probably people there who did not own a computer, and could not afford to buy books. Maybe there were some too infirm to walk or drive. Maybe Dole provided a quiet and safe haven from a chaotic home life. Maybe some were lonely and just wanted to sit in the company of their fellow human beings. Maybe dad had weekend custody of the kids whose favorite thing was to go with him to the library. Maybe some just wanted to get out of the cold. Yet here we all were, as the light faded on an early December afternoon, drawn to a community space supported by the taxes of everyone and open to everyone. For any number of reasons we were drawn to this space at this time. It is what we do. Together.

It made me feel connected in some strange way.

The experience could not have existed without the space.

It was the best Old Fashioned I never drank.

JOHN

Christmas and immigrants

HUBBUCH

F. Dean Lueking, pastor emeritus of Grace Lutheran Church, is in his 62nd year as a River Forest resident and offers this reflection on Christmas, 2016:

A

t the heart of the Christmas story is the plight of a young couple forced by emergency circumstances to bring their child into the world in a cattle stall far from home.

Think of Mary and Joseph as displaced persons and their child, Jesus, as an immigrant from birth.

Such a re-imagining of the meaning of the event long ago in Bethlehem helps free Christmas from fluff and locate it amidst an issue no less urgent now than it was then: immigration.

Around 220 million people in today’s world are immigrants in some sense of the word — those who choose to move for economic benefits or are forced to flee desperate situations and seek acceptance in a new land. More often than not they are feared as the flotsam and jetsam on the ocean wave of global power and dealt with by being shooed away as much as possible for as long as possible.

To be sure, it is true that nowadays terrorists seek to slip in among the tide of immigrants and wreak havoc. They must be detected, prevented from entering, and punished for the crimes they commit.

But all immigrants must not be lumped into the category of threats and rejected before they ever have the chance to prove themselves. They are bona fide fellow human beings whose lives and well-being are at stake and who have much good to offer their new homeland.

Furthermore, those of us who will once again celebrate Jesus’ birth as the coming of the promised Savior have sound reason as his followers to obey his command to see in those who are displaced and pushed out none other than people who

embody his presence and who are to be welcomed in the name of his hospitality and supported despite the inconvenience and cost.

In order to do that demanding thing, Christians do well to see Jesus himself as a displaced person in three senses: as the heavenly One whose birth made him one with us earthlings, whose parents took him to Egypt as a newborn threatened by Herod’s murderous jealousy, and as an itinerant preacher with nowhere to lay his head throughout his public ministry.

The sooner we Christians regain the Biblical understanding of ourselves as strangers and pilgrims with a two-dimensional calling as citizens with earthbound responsibilities toward immigrants, and as possessors of a heavenly hope through a Savior who loved us and gave himself for us, the better we will flourish in the former and be strong in the latter.

One more thing about Christmas and immigration, an insight I owe to fellow preacher Sam Wells: One of Jesus’ forbears was Ruth, who lived more than a millennium before him. She was an immigrant woman from Moab, whose story of loyalty to her Israelite mother-in-law, Naomi, is not only lasting in inspiration but instructive in how immigrants become a leaven for great good in their new homeland.

Ruth married a man from Bethlehem, Boaz, and helped him face pushback as a husband with an immigrant wife. Together with him, she became not a bundle of trouble but a hope for the nation’s renewal.

Think of how that story has been replicated endlessly in our own nation’s history.

Let the immigrant theme in the Christmas story be heard, pondered, and applied as no small gift to our nation’s needs today.

F. DEAN LUEKING One View

24

Wednesday Journal, December 14, 2016

O U R

O

V I E W S

Painful tax hike

ak Park’s village government has been assiduously limiting increases in its share of the local property tax for many years.

The theory has been that the property tax is the primary method of funding for our local public schools while the municipal government, especially with Home Rule authority, has a boatload of other taxes and fees it can use to build revenue.

And Oak Park’s trustees have not been shy in creating new fees and licenses, and then raising those fees and licenses. Pay attention to a month’s worth of bills at home and look for the municipal taxes that notably increase your cable bill, your phone bill, your electric bill. Among others.

But this year, the village board has approved a hefty property tax hike that will have a notable impact on the bills received by homeowners and commercial property owners. And while it is painful, we give the board credit for facing up to its chronic revenue shortfall — spending has outpaced revenue in 12 of the past 15 years.

By necessity in the years of the Great Recession, Oak Park cut its staff by more than 20 percent, outsourced functions and limited pay increases. It has worked to boost the property and sales tax base with new development.

While you can question some discretionary spending choices, such as the interesting but not essential wayfinding sign system being planned, you have to also acknowledge that a stepped-up infrastructure spending program was overdue.

What is packing the biggest wallop this year, and into infinity, are the pension shortfalls that are finally coming due. Bad choices and overpromising by elected officials long gone are now hobbling current municipal leaders as the cost of funding retirements for cops and firefighters eat discretionary spending alive.

This year alone, Oak Park is upping its payments into depleted pension funds for those two groups by $470,000. And that is just a down payment on getting reserves headed the right direction.

This isn’t going to get any easier.

Cops and Tasers

It is the right decision for Oak Park police officers to begin carrying Tasers as they patrol our streets. The 2017 village budget includes $90,000 to purchase the devices.

A frightening incident in which an Oak Park officer was brutally attacked by a perpetrator last September seems to have been the catalyst for a change that makes Oak Park the last force in our area to adopt Tasers. While we support this change, we also understand the reticence that has held Oak Park back over the years.

We have watched in other communities we cover as Tasers have been used too readily as a method to incapacitate a suspect. While clearly a major step down from lethal force, a Taser is a serious weapon that must only be used in exceptional circumstances. We are heartened that, in the documentation supplied to the village board in support of Tasers, the department made clear Tasers are not a replacement or a short-cut to conscious efforts to de-escalate fraught confrontations.

Clear and explicit use guidelines and thorough training will be vital to Oak Park cops effectively and fairly using this new tool.

New home for Multicultural Center Kudos to our public library, to the village government’s Community Relations Commission and to curator Lynn Allen for their fruitful collaboration to find a new home for the Multicultural Center. A critical creation by the District 97 public elementary schools several decades back, this remarkable collection was in danger of losing a physical home when the schools needed its space at Percy Julian Middle School for classrooms.

Allen has long been the center’s most enthusiastic advocate. Then the commission took up the challenge and found a willing partner in the library. The center is now in place and open to the public at the Dole Library branch on Augusta. This is an outstanding solution that actually brings the collection to a more public setting than ever before.

V I E W P O I N T S

@ @OakParkSports

Have a happy, haunted Christmas I’m re-reading Dickens’ classic holiday fable, which sent me to the archives to resurrect this chestnut, which first ran on Dec. 21, 2011. It’s lightly edited, with one small update.

T

he patron saint of our modern Yuletide holiday is Ebenezer Scrooge, a literary figment redeemed by transformative visits from four spirits. If you haven’t read A Christmas Carol, it’s worth your time. Charles Dickens spins one hell of a ghost story, and there’s a lot more here than you’ll find in the various film versions.

Imagine being radically self-absorbed, alienated from your fellow man and detached from your own humanity, a worshiper of materialism, your stone-cold heart taking pride in being a razor-edged realist. Maybe like some real people you know.

Then imagine, deep in the night, you hear something slowly climb the stairs from the cellar (of your consciousness perhaps), dragging behind it the chain forged in life, and suddenly appearing before you though you’ve locked every lock on your fortress doors.

Despite feeling “the chilling influence of its deathcold eyes,” you’re not quite willing to acknowledge the existence of this phantom, a person known to you — your late business partner, in fact — who died seven years ago this very Christmas Eve. “Caustic and cold as ever,” you work up the nerve to ask, “What do you want with me?”

And the “dreadful apparition” answers with a single word that freezes the blood of listener and reader alike.

“Much!”

Now that’s a haunting. No wildly grotesque visuals supplied by special effects. This hell is far more frightening than mere fire and brimstone. This is the torture of remorse.

“It is required of every man,” the ghost tells Scrooge, “that the spirit within should walk abroad among his fellow men and travel far and wide; and if that spirit goes not forth in life, it is condemned to do so after death. It is doomed to wander through the world and witness what it cannot share, but might have shared on earth and turned to happiness! … Not to know that any Christian spirit, working kindly in its little sphere, whatever it may be, will find its mortal life too short for its vast means of usefulness. Not to know that no space of regret can make amends for one life’s opportunities misused! Yet such was I! Oh, such was I!” Such was Jacob Marley, whom Scrooge tries to butter up, assuring him he was “always a good man of business.”

“Business!” Marley retorts. “Mankind was my business! The common welfare was my business; charity, mercy, forbearance and benevolence were all my business. The dealings of my trade were but a drop of water in the comprehensive ocean of my business!”

The apparition warns Scrooge he will be visited by three more spirits that very evening — the ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Future. And while one might wish such a comprehensive haunting on, say, the President-Elect, this Christmas Eve, I can’t help feeling everyone could benefit from a little Marley therapy each December. We are not so different from

KEN

Scrooge after all, and each of us is already haunted each December by the ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Future.

Since the early bliss of childhood, Christmas has always been a struggle for me. But lately I’m beginning to think it’s supposed to be a struggle — that I haven’t done Christmas right if it doesn’t unnerve me a little.

The ghosts of Christmas Past are easy to find: a parade of memories, regrets, disappointments, joys, loneliness and warm camaraderie. I find them everywhere — in old photos, attending the church I grew up in, decorating a tree with ornaments that trace family history, thinking about the people on my Christmas card list, watching movies and listening to carols that evoke how I felt when I watched or heard them at various stages of my life.

Christmas Past can be an emotional ride: the bitter, the sweet, and the bittersweet. Melancholy comes from putting too much emphasis on what has been lost — or as Marley phrased it, “life’s opportunities misused.”

But if you face the past with grace, good humor and acceptance, you haven’t lost a thing. It is alive in you; you are the composite of all your experiences.

Christmas Present is a different kind of parade.

The challenge is to pay attention to the season as it unfolds around you. That means seeing it all — the crass consumerism, the tastefully (and tastelessly) decorated homes, the poor and the rich and the rest, the bells and smells, the spirituality and the “stuff,” evergreen trees strapped to car roofs, the incessant repetition of “Santa Baby” and “Have a Holly Jolly Christmas” and “Feliz Navidad” from speakers, the warmly lit shops, the annual formletter updates, the branches whitened with snowdust, and, best of all, the meetings and greetings as our lives briefly intersect.

This flurry of Christmases present brings the season alive in a way that cannot, and should not, be ignored.

The business of Christmas Future is laying the groundwork for Christmases yet to come. New traditions need to be established, old traditions put to rest, and some sustained because they still sustain us.

Traditions die when life moves in different directions, and meaning requires that we adjust to accommodate it.

We are haunted by the reminder of our mortality — each year docks another holiday from the number allotted. The ghost of Christmas Future demands that we think in advance about what we might regret when we reach the final tally. Yet, as Scrooge proves, these are the shadows of things that might be, not necessarily what will be. It all depends on whether, like Scrooge, we embrace necessary change.

Christmas expects of us a fully realized life review.

But it’s worth the haunting. There is plenty to be redeemed, including our occasionally misplaced humanity.

Instead of the usual question, “What is the meaning of Christmas?” the more pertinent question becomes, “What will make Christmas more meaningful and memorable for me and my loved ones?”

I would answer, “Let it haunt you.”

And what does a good Christmas haunting have to offer us? The answer comes from Jacob Marley himself.

“Much!”

TRAINOR

V I E W P O I N T S S H R U B T O W N

by Marc Stopeck

Wednesday Journal, December 14, 2016

W E D N E S D A Y

JOURNAL of Oak Park and River Forest

Editor and Publisher Dan Haley Senior Editor Bob Uphues Associate Publisher Dawn Ferencak Staff Reporters Michael Romain, Timothy Inklebarger Viewpoints/ Real Estate Editor Ken Trainor Sports/Staff reporter Marty Farmer Columnists Jack Crowe, Doug Deuchler, John Hubbuch, May Kay O’Grady, Kwame Salter, John Stanger, Stan West Staff Photographer William Camargo Editorial Design Manager Claire Innes Editorial Designers Jacquinete Baldwin, Javier Govea Business Manager Joyce Minich IT Manager/Web Developer Mike Risher Advertising Production Manager Philip Soell Advertising Design Manager Andrew Mead Advertising Designers Debbie Becker, Mark Moroney Advertising Director Dawn Ferencak Advertising Sales Marc Stopeck, Joe Chomiczewski Media Coordinator Kristen Benford

Increase participation at village board meetings

I

pation in, the discussion of the meeting’s n response to complaints that the village agenda items by the public. of Oak Park had not engaged the public On two occasions earlier this year, there in its deliberations on the Road Diet, were meetings publicized outside of the The Bend, and the designation of Jupinorm of the 48-hour requirement. Both meetter Realty as the “preferred developer” ings were reported in advance by Wednesday for re-making Madison Street, Wednesday Journal in the edition published the week Journal in its Dec. 7 editorial and in the prior to the events. The article “Jupiter picked first was the June 1 forum for Madison Project” held by the Mayor. During reported Trustee Adam that meeting, a member Salzman’s statement that of the audience asked the there had been 15 meetMayor to announce meetings on the subjects since ings on the redevelopment 2011. During the April of Madison in advance; to 15 meeting of the village which the Mayor respondboard, Trustee Salzman ed, “I am not your parent, stated that there had been look it up yourself.” The seven or eight meetings second occasion was the on the redevelopment Special Meeting of the of Madison since 2011, inProvided Village Board on June 13. cluding a study session.

A rendering of the proposed “Bend,” looking east from One hundred people atRather than quibble the corner of Oak Park Avenue and Madison Street. tended each of these two about the number of events. meetings, the focus of the The large number of residents attending should be complaints have been the lack of publicity and informathe measure of engagement by the public for the village tion about when the redevelopment of Madison Street board and all of its meetings. To rely only on the 48-hour would be on the agendas before and since April this requirement for notifying us of topics such as the exyear. And it is easy to see where that lack of engagement pected $18 million expense planned for Madison Street in comes from on the part of the village board. There is a effect suppresses public participation in that project. reliance on the state law and local ordinance requiring The result is that, at best, those meetings include pubthat the agenda for any/all official meetings doesn’t have lic comments by only “a handful of niggling critics.” to be published until 48 hours before a scheduled meetWhat can be done to increase public participation in ing; typically the agenda is posted on the village website the future meetings? at 4 p.m. on the Friday before a meeting. This in itself Chris Donovan is a resident of Oak Park. doesn’t do much to encourage awareness of, or partici-

CHRIS

DONOVAN

Inside Sales Representative Mary Ellen Nelligan Circulation Manager Jill Wagner Distribution Coordinator Caleb Thusat Comptroller Edward Panschar Credit Manager Laurie Myers Front Desk Carolyn Henning, Maria Murzyn Chairman Emeritus Robert K. Downs

One View

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

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

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

If you have questions, call Viewpoints editor Ken Trainor at 708-613-3310 or email him at ktrainor@wjinc.com.

LETTER TO THE EDITOR ■ 250-word limit ■ Must include first and last names, municipality in which you live, phone number (for verification only)

‘ONE VIEW’ ESSAY ■ 500-word limit ■ One-sentence footnote about yourself, your connection to the topic ■ Signature details as at left

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

25

26

V I E W P O I N T S

Wednesday Journal, December 14, 2016

In praise of Hines Hospital Our family is relieved and rejoicing to have my brother making a strong recovery after a lifesaving surgery at Hines Hospital. An MRI revealed that he had a very large tumor impinging on his brain. The good news was that the tumor was operable and not malignant. More good news was that he was in the hands of two superb neurosurgeons, Drs. Anand Germanwalla and Daniel Heiferman.

In a nine-hour operation, the tumor was removed, and when Bob woke up

in the ICU, he was greeted by family and a team of excellent nurses and then visited by both doctors, still there to attend him at the end of a long day.

Every staff person we met in the course of several weeks of preparation and post-operation care was kind and genuinely caring. I can’t say enough about the whole experience and how much it has meant to our family.

Stephanie Ferrera

OAKPARK.COM | RIVERFOREST.COM

It all hinges on the garage

As we move into the April 2017 village election cycle, I’ll be very interested to hear the candidates’ views on the OPRF pool issue. Any pool proposal premised on demolishing the existing parking garage requires the village to sell the garage to District 200. If the village won’t sell, the project won’t happen.

Bob Stigger

Oak Park

Oak Park

River Forest

FOOT CLINIC

7351 Lake St. (Just west of Panera Bread)

Do you wake up with heel pain?

H

Dr. Linda Lambert

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

Heel pain or plantar fascitis is caused when the foot flattens out with weight bearing. Sometimes a heel spur forms where the plantar fascia attaches to the heel bone. A heel spur can be diagnosed with an in office x-ray.

There are many ways to treat heel pain without doing surgery. Rest, ice, antiinflammatory medication, supportive shoes and stretches help in most cases.

Custom made orthotic devices or cortisone injections may also be needed.

Call Dr. Lambert, you don't have to live with foot pain.

Aetna, AARP, Blue Cross PPO, United Healthcare, Healtspring, Humana, PHCS, Medicare Assignment & most other insurances accepted • CIGNA PPO

24 Years’ Experience • Se Habla Espanol • Free Parking

708.366.FOOT (3668)

The Grand Poobah’s transparent plans

The Grand Poobah Mayor President has spoken! There is no one hiding behind the curtain! No wizardry here! The corner of Madison and Oak Park shall be what the great Jupiter wants, other ideas be damned!

The Grand Poobah is not interested in transparency. We elected an autocrat who appears pleasant enough, but it is his vision that will prevail.

This architect Hammersley, who submitted an alternate plan, is a fly in the Grand Poobah’s plan. He plans to swat him with Jupiter’s support. This deal was done a long time ago. This behavior will continue with VMA support, as their secret nominee for Grand Poobah is re-elected.

If Mr. Hammersley thinks there was no transparency, he is right. If he thinks calling it out will change it, he is very wrong. Most citizens will go with the flow. However, many may prefer his design.

Will they be heard?

As I wrote this, my Wednesday Journal arrived ... front page, Jupiter picked for Madison project ... go figure! Sorry Mr. Hammersley, the Grand Poobah and his counsel have spoken.

Be what it may, the Grand Poobah Mayor President is in control. Four more years of large high-rise buildings and promises of lower taxes.

If he can deliver the latter, he wins!

Robert Milstein Oak Park

Keep making people think

Yes, the electoral college system gave us Bush and now Trump. It is time for a change. And after reading your Nov. 30 column [The electoral college flunks Democracy 101, Ken Trainor, Viewpoints], I think you have officially created a new category — the enlightened angry white man.

As always, keep making people think — your columns are true gems.

Peace,

Lorraine Owles

A proud “nasty” woman (I have a pin; it’s official)

V I E W P O I N T S

OAKPARK.COM | RIVERFOREST.COM

A

Wednesday Journal, December 14, 2016

Why I’m running for a second term on the D200 board

fter considerable reflection and discussion with my family, I have decided to pursue a second term on the Oak Park and River Forest District 200 school board. With the hire of a new superintendent, I want to offer my continued support in executing the district’s strategic plan.

I originally ran for the board four years ago because I thought my business experience and perspective would be of benefit to the district and community. Having served now for nearly four years, I am more convinced of this.

While some try to paint the educational world as totally different from the business world, I humbly disagree. Soon after joining the school board, I participated on the Financial Advisory Committee (FAC) that provided guidance in addressing the district’s fund balance surplus, including tax relief in excess of $30 million. More fundamentally, these changes reflected a shift from a philosophy of taking the maximum tax dollars allowable to one dedicated to seeking only what was needed. As Finance Committee Chair, I have helped reshape finance policy in line with some of the FAC recommendations, and I have continuously kept the board focused on the FAC model as decisions have been made.

Developing and implementing long-term facilities plans, inclusive of addressing the pools, is a critical need of the district. That has been a major challenge and has consumed considerable energy over the past four years. The very narrow defeat in the recent referendum for facilities reminds me that there is no easy solution to this complex problem, and while we have great

27

Antique & Fine Jewelry

For this Holiday and Forever.

community support for our educational institutions, our taxpayers are tapped out. This problem needs to be solved in a collaborative and responsible way.

I have worked with the administration and board to put into place the foundations of much-needed compensation discipline. This has started with a compensation structure for our administration, while outlining a compensation philosophy to assure consistency.

There remains plenty of work to do in this critical area.

While participating on the D200 school board has been a tremendous time commitment, my overall experience has been one of learning and gaining appreciation for our students and those faculty, administrators and other public servants who dedicate their time to our students and community. I have seen the treasures that exist in our institution, while also being exposed to the multitude of challenges that still need to be tackled. I recognize and appreciate the value of seasoned school board experience.

We continue to see a gap in achievement among the different constituencies in our school. I believe that all students can succeed at OPRF. This is not simply an issue of resources, as our school is generously funded. Rather, it is one of focus and prioritization, assuring we put our resources (financial and human energy) where the greatest impact can be made.

I would greatly appreciate your support, allowing me to serve our students and community members for four more years.

Tom Cofsky is a member of the District 200 Board of Education and a resident of Oak Park.

TOM

COFSKY One View

goldhatpin.com

jewelrystudiodesign.com

Inside Crafters and Weavers 125 North Marion Oak Park • 708.445.0610

Anger and voting

The presidential elections this year gave me some insight about voters. I learned that anger is a powerful stimulant and secrecy is, ultimately, a bullet. Trump got the stimulant by talking to the voters and paying attention to their reactions. Clinton got the secrecy bullet by ignoring those who disagreed with her.

The Trump/Clinton outcome made me wonder if the same results would happen with the Oak Park village board. I wonder if the president, board and staff are so interested in their own thoughts, secrets, and opinions that they overlook the needles in the audience’s haystacks? I wonder if knowledge and experience are second to

personal friendship? I wonder if questions from the podium are answered? I wonder why 95 percent of board votes are unanimous? I wonder why there are so many consent agendas?

I wonder why interested residents get so little time to read public information before the board meets? I wonder if anger is a factor in how people vote (or don’t vote)? I wonder if more transparency by the board would result in a more productive government?

Bottom line, I think our village is way behind contemporary communications!

John Murtagh Oak Park

plus ...

Buck-a-Shuck $1 house oysters $1 $1 peel-n-pop shrimp $1

monday thru friday til 6pm!

28 Wednesday Journal, December 14, 2016 Carriage-5x5-5.qxp 11/21/2016 9:03

PM

V I E W P O I N T S

Page 2

Artistic Designs and Chicagowide Delivery Holiday Glow Centerpiece #T1153

Serving the Chicago, Oak Park, River Forest areas for 50 Years, and proud to be a part of Phillip's Flowers.

708.383.4862

CarriageFlowers.com

OAKPARK.COM | RIVERFOREST.COM

Thanks for saying yes to the pool, 17,824 times

T

he District 200 Facilities Referendum results were certified on Nov. 29. With 35,676 votes cast, the Yes side came up 28 votes short of a victory. After thoroughly investigating the options for a recount, the Vote Yes campaign committee decided not to challenge the election results, which were, essentially, a tie broken by fewer than 30 voters.

We are heartened that there is broad support for a comprehensive facilities plan that includes a 40-meter pool that fully accommodates physical education and extracurricular needs, invests in new and renovated space for the performing arts, builds new boys PE locker rooms, pilots more efficient use of existing classroom space, and preserves oncampus parking. We draw this conclusion not only from the 17,824 “yes” votes, but also from the thousands of voters we talked to on front porches and at community events. When people understood the actual plan and its actual costs, a substantial majority was supportive.

Unfortunately, many people we spoke with were confused by the blatantly false and misleading information being peddled by the anti-referendum campaign (about cost, potential savings, pool size, parking, and alternate plans, among others). There were also, of course, people who accurately understood the project and still planned to vote no, but their reasons for voting that way were diverse and often mutually exclusive. For example, some felt the D200 board was spending too much of the school’s cash reserves while others felt the board was spending too little of those reserves.

The upshot is that there was no mandate, no consensus, against a comprehensive facilities plan. There will be those who will claim that they know

what “no” voters wanted, but they will do so to forward their own political agendas. Our campaign, on the other hand, systematically asked voters and found no consensus at all among “no” voters.

So what is next? The District 200 board will, as promised, go back to the drawing board to determine how they can address the many facilities challenges facing OPRF High School. They will spend months in meetings and tens of thousands of dollars finding yet another solution to those challenges.

That’s time and money that could have been better spent on other issues facing the school.

Meanwhile, supporters of the Vote Yes campaign will continue to monitor the process, share our insights from front porches, and work to build excellent facilities for our outstanding high school. We remain committed to supporting OPRF and its students.

We would like to thank the citizens of Oak Park and River Forest for listening as we made our case. And we’d like to thank the dozens of canvassers, scores of donors and volunteers, and hundreds of supporters who gave so generously of their time and treasure to educate voters during the Vote Yes campaign. Your work was essential to combatting misinformation and helping voters understand the real facilities plan. In the event that the D200 board opts for another referendum, we hope we can count on your support again.

Thank you.

The Vote Yes D200 Facilities Referendum Committee consists of Ben Campbell, Lisa Colpoys, Wayne Franklin, Lynn Kamenitsa, Matt Kosterman, Mary Anne Montgomery, Ellen Pimentel, Peter Ryan, and Karen Steward-Nolan.

VOTE YES D200 One View

You’re just one click away from...

Getting the latest news updates dates Purchasing photos Searching past issues Searching Classified ads

www.OakPark.com

Wednesday Journal, December 14, 2016

OAKPARK.COM | RIVERFOREST.COM

O B I T U A R I E S

Miss a week…

Larisa Gehring, 20 Musician and poet

Larisa Augusta Gehring, 20, died on Dec. 7, 2016 in Chicago, apparently the victim of a drug overdose. Born in Ukraine, she was the adopted daughter of Thomas and Cathy Rae Gehring of Oak Park.

Larisa attended Whittier and Brooks schools and Oak Park and River Forest High School. She was a talented musician and poet.

LARISA GEHRING Larisa is survived by her father, Thomas Gehring; her siblings, Alexandra and Damon; her maternal grandparents, Monroe and Barbara Olson; and her paternal grandparents, Philip and Betty Gehring. She was preceded in death by her mother, Cathy Rae Olson.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, Dec. 17, at 4 p.m. at First United Church of Oak Park, 848 Lake St.

...miss a lot.

Answer Book 2016

W E D N E S D A Y

JOURNAL

AB2016_CV1.indd 1

6/8/16 1:07 PM

W E D N E S D A Y

JOURNAL

June 1, 2016 Vol. 34, No. 42 ONE DOLLAR

of Oak Park and River Forest

@O @OakPark

Special pullout section

Oak Park police to carry anti-overdose drug

Oak Park Fire Department already administers Narcan roughly once a week

If you don’t have a subscription to Wednesday Journal, you’re missing a lot. Each week Wednesday Journal covers local news, local people, local sports and the local ads you want to see. Village hall, police, OPRF, the elementary schools, business, religion, we have Oak Park and River Forest covered.

So why are you waiting—subscribe today!

By TIMOTHY INKLEBARGER Staff Reporter

Carol O’Neill, 54

A day of remembrance

St. Luke parishioner

An American Ramadan

River Forest couple says don’t make assumptions about Muslims

By TOM HOLMES Contributing Reporter

Carol Ann O’Neill, 54, a lifelong resident of River Forest, died on Dec. 10, 2016. Born on Nov. 13, 1962, she attended St. Luke School, Oak Park and River Forest High School, and then went on to earn a degree in Business at the University of Illinois UrbanaChampaign. She was a member of the St. Luke School and Fenwick High School communities and was a lifelong parishioner of St. Luke Parish.

Carol O’Neil is survived by her children, Michael, Margaret Mary (fiancé Martin Detmer), Madeline and Colleen Stephany; her siblings, Patty (Frank) Baker, John (Pat) O’Neill, Peggy (Jack) Gleason, Michael (Margie) O’Neill, Mary (Joe) Bresnahan, Molly (Van) Conroy and Danny (Cathy) O’Neill; and her many nieces, nephews and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents, John and Margaret (nee Barrett) O’Neill.

Visitation was held on Nov. 11 at Drechsler, Brown & Williams Funeral Home, and friends and family celebrated a funeral Mass at St. Luke Church on Nov. 12, followed by interment at Queen of Heaven Cemetery.

The family appreciates memorial donations to St. Luke School www. school-stlukeparish.org or Fenwick High School, www.fenwickfriars.com.

WILLIAM CAMARGO/Staff Photographer

Participants wave at the crowd during the annual Memorial Day Parade in River Forest on May 30. For more photos, page 10.

Syed Mohuddin (a.k.a. Mohi) Ahmed and his wife Nausheen Akhter will begin keeping the month of Ramadan on June 5. The River Forest residents will fast, going without food or drink, from sunrise

to sunset, every day for four weeks.

Nausheen sounds very much like a Jew on Yom Kippur or a Christian during Lent when she describes what Muslims are striving for during Ramadan.

“What people may not know,” she said, “is that the purpose of Ramadan is to bring you closer spiritually to your Cre-

ator, to develop patience, gratitude and to perfect one’s character. When fasting, a Muslim is supposed to be on their best behavior, avoid anger, bad language, lies, etc. Many people give up bad habits, for example smoking. It is a time of introspection and self-reflection on how to bet-

Oak Park police officers will soon be equipped with an anti-opioid overdose drug known as Narcan, confirmed Oak Park Deputy Police Chief Tony Ambrose.

A state law that went into effect in January mandates that all Illinois police departments begin carrying the drug in an effort to prevent overdoses from heroin and opioid-based prescription drugs.

Ambrose said in a telephone interview that the OPPD is working with the Oak Park Fire Department to receive training and grant funding for the Narcan program.

Oak Park Deputy Fire Chief Peter Pilafas said in a telephone interview that fire department paramedics have been trained to administer Narcan for some time and used it an average of four times a month in 2014 and 2015.

Pilafas applied on May 20 for the grant, which will cover 100 percent of the costs for the OPPD program, and it was approved three days later.

He said now police and fire department officials will attend a training seminar to instruct police officers on how to administer the drug.

Earlier this year, Oak Park Township SuperviSee NARCAN on page 13

See RAMADAN on page 12

Father ’ s Day | Sunday

6/19

brunch 9a-2:30p dinner 5-9pm Reservations: 708.358.9800 or mayadelsol.com

D A Y W E D N E S

JOURNAL of Oak Park and

Three easy ways to subscribe: 1) call (708) 524-8300 2) visit OakPark.com/subscribe 3) mail in the form below. *Sign up today to receive Breaking News email updates!

May 14, 2014 Vol. 34, No. 40 ONE DOLLAR

River Forest

Share the road

Faulty valve delayed firefighters

board and resiEbsen told the Hall meeting dents at a Village of suppression on Monday that the broke out on the fire, which the front porch south half of Ave. at around at 814 Clinton due was delayed 4 a.m., also of a fire engine to the failure one of the ion, a wood water hose valve on ventilat Natural that the faulty load home and a engines. He said and has balloon-frame ble material valve is regularly tested . of highly flamma ideal condisince been replaced fire was so created on the porch the on of Ebsen said rapid escalati ters were, tions for the ed one home intense that firefigh opa fire that destroy d two othany interior damage “unable to do and severely block of Clinton 17 page on ers on the 800 Oak See FIRE 4, according to Avenue May Tom Ebsen.

Park Fire Chief

’Worst conditions’ in Clinton Ave. fire

Fifth-grader Chase Thompson is amused as an Oak Park police officer crosses an intersection on a bike safety course at Whittier Elementary School on Monday. The Active Transportation Alliance provided the bikes for the bike safety class.

RGER

By TIMOTHY INKLEBA Staff Writer

Start delivery of

o Much ado abParkoufortChicazer goan Troubles pop up in Oak with zero license plate

today!

Enclosed is my payment of ¨$32 for 12 months

, city of Chicago action from the tickhim that the which assured RGER ets would stop. for about three All was quiet y the unfairwhen suddenl started a local years, tickets became parking Tom Feddor ly issued the five years ago this time from again – but celebrity of sorts nearly 200 unPark. after he received tickets from village of Oak had zero luck Feddor said he’s deserved parking for his Illiin from the village the city of Chicago is simply getting help flow of the tickets plate that stemming the nois license of vehiand models the number zero. an’s for makes not his 2006 old Chicago that he says are The 43-yearcles that outin news Records show Range Rover. plight was featured Chicago Tribune 11 page on lets such as the quick See ZERO , prompting and MSNBC

By TIMOTHY INKLEBA Staff Writer

Name _______________________________________________________

DAVID PIERINI/Staff Photographer

Patio is OPEN!

144 s. oak park

Garret Eakin on raising the for local architechture bar

W Homes

p. B11

May 14, 2014

By DEB QUANTOCK MCCAREY

F

Contributing Writer

ayadels .9800 | www.m ave. | 708.358

Powered by the Oak

Park Area Association

All Wright walk marks

orty years old is fairly young for a house, particular ly in Oak Park where many of our homes hit 100-plus. However, in terms of the Frank Lloyd Wright Home (& Studio), 40 is significant. That’s the age of the Wright Trust.

It’s a milestone, says Celeste Adams, CEO/president.

Seventeen is also a significant number. May 17 is the 40th Wright Housewalk; June Plus 17 is the nonprofit organization’s Founders Day; and July 17 marks the day in 1974 when the Home & Studio opened for its first tour.

And there is one other happy coincidenc — the 1889 Home e & Studio at 951 Chicago Ave. celebrates 125 architecturally significant years.

“Our 40th anniversar y is the beginning the next generation of of the Trust and a way to celebrate all those who have made it what we are today,” Adams said.

And what they have made it over the four decades is last … bigger. In fact, just in the past three years, she said, the Trust grown to oversee has five Frank Lloyd Wright touring/education/re storation sites in the Chicago area.

Isabel Roberts House “The Home & Studio (Frank Lloyd Wright, is the oldest Frank 1908) Lloyd Wright site in the world, and is now Society bus tour excursion a museum,” Adams attended by a noted. “For me, group of passionate this represents architects, local 40 years of welcoming all buffs, history and determined friends and talent new community activists. to the Trust and “Elsie Jacobsen building with each passing got to talking about year trying to take back [the the wonderful volunteers on the talents of Home & Studio] building who are already because at the time there. We have it was for sale,” just launched a recalled new web- John Thorpe, local preservati site, flwright.org, and are doing more on architect things and founding member and with technology former , so I hope, like Frank Lloyd of the Home & Studio Foundatio president Wright, we’re able to capture the attention Wright n (now the Trust). of a younger audience and continue to Back then, Mrs. spire all people inClyde Nooker, with these wonderful whose , origi- husband had owned the structure nal sites.” since the 1940s, was looking for a buyer. They were Wright’s clients, Mrs. Nooker and the corsage circa 1956, for a remodeling of the office, library, The mighty grass kitchen and bath roots movement and sparked this positive that had opened part of the building to the public change in Oak Park’s since 1966 for tours. fortunes began in 1972, during a Historical See ALL WRIGHT on page B3

Celebrating the 40th anniver sary

of the Wright Trust

OAK PARK 8BR, 3BA . . . . . . . . . $644,000 See page B6

*Email _______________________________________________________ Visa/MC/Discover # ____________________________ Exp Date__________

Courtesy of Frank Lloyd

Wright Trust. Photographer:

James Caulfield

Signature ____________________________________________________ Mail to: Circulation Dept., 141 S. Oak Park, IL 60302

1902)

Courtesy of Frank Lloyd

THE MOST L OCAL REAL E STATE IN PR INT AND ON LINE

OAK PARK4BR, 2.1BA . . . . . . . . $609,000 See page B5

Address ______________________________________________________ City _____________________ Zip ________ Phone __________________

of Realtors

milestone year

Arthur B. Heurtley H ouse (Frank Lloyd Wright,

OAK PARK 4BR, 2 BA . . . . . . . . . $367,000 See page B5

ol.com

OAK PARK 8 BR, 3.1 BA . . . . . . . $900,000 See page B6

Wright Trust. Photographer:

James Caulfield

RIVER FOREST 4BR, 3BA . . . . . . . .$615,000 See page B6

Offer valid for new subscribers in Cook County only.

29

30

Wednesday Journal, December 14, 2016

OAKPARK.COM | RIVERFOREST.COM

Aging together is a gift. Couples who call Belmont Village home celebrate every day in a luxurious setting alive with engaging activities, spirited friendships and award-winning wellness programs. Our licensure ensures that couples can continue to live together, even with differing care needs.

Together. Like always.

Distinctive Residential Settings | Chef-Prepared Dining and Bistro Premier Health and Wellness Programs | Award-Winning Memory Care Professionally Supervised Therapy and Rehabilitation Services Happy Holidays from Belmont Village!

The Community Built for Life.® belmontvillage.com BUFFALO GROVE 847-537-5000 | GLENVIEW 847-657-7100 OAK PARK 708-848-7200 | GENEVA ROAD 630-510-1515 Winner of the Argentum 2016 Best of the Best and George Mason University Healthcare Awards for the Circle of Friends© memory program for Mild Cognitive Impairment.

© 2016 Belmont Village, L.P. | SC License 52068, 52084, 52076, AL License 5104242

WedJournal_couplesHoliday_2016.indd 1

12/13/16 12:39 PM

OPEN WEDNESDAY - SUNDAY

6806 Roosevelt Road Oak Park, IL

Wednesday Journal, December 14, 2016

OAKPARK.COM | RIVERFOREST.COM

find your...

Home Sweet Home

real-estate

31

32

Wednesday Journal, December 14, 2016

THANK YOU Our most sincere thanks to the Kuratko-Nosek Funeral Home.

I’ve been to many Funeral Homes in my lifetime, but this was the best place ever. You were so professional and kind; the funeral home was so beautiful. Yesterday we buried my Aunt Esther, she was the last of my Aunts and Uncles who passed away, and now my Mom is the last one of nine brothers and sisters left. When that day comes for my Mom to join her family in heaven, I know what Funeral Home I will use. Thank you for your superior work of handling a very sad occasion in ourlives.

It’s nice to know that in your time of need, you can count on people that you can go to, that are there for you, befriend you, and help take care of you and your loved ones.

OAKPARK.COM | RIVERFOREST.COM

Religion Guide Check First.

400 N. Fifth Avenue (1 block north of Lake St.) Come join us for Sunday Morning Worship at 11 am Pastor Elliot Wimbush will be preaching the message.

Refreshments and fellowship follow the service.

708-344-6150 firstchurchofmaywood.org When you're looking for a place to worship the Lord, Check First.

You’re Invited to

We encourage other families to consider them in their time of need.

William S. Winston Pastor

From the Family of Esther Vasquez

A Church for All Nations A Church Without Walls SERVICE LOCATION Forest Park Plaza 7600 W. Roosevelt Road Forest Park, IL 60130

(708) 697-5000 Sunday Service 7AM, 9AM & 11:15AM

LIVE Webcast - 11:15AM Service Believer’s Walk of Faith Broadcast Schedule (Times in Central Standard Time) Television DAYSTAR (M-F)

3:30-4:00pm

Nationwide

WJYS-TV (M-F)

6:30-7:00am

Chicago, IL.

WCIU-TV (Sun.)

10:30-11:00am

Chicago, IL.

Word Network

10:30-11:00am

Nationwide

(M-F)

www.livingwd.org www.billwinston.org

West Suburban Temple Har Zion

1040 N. Harlem Avenue River Forest Meet our Rabbi, Adir Glick Pray, learn, and celebrate with our caring, progressive, egalitarian community.

Interfaith families are welcome.

Accredited Early Childhood Program Religious School for K thru 12 Daily Morning Minyan Weekly Shabbat Services Friday 6:30pm & Saturday 10:00am Affiliated with United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism 708.366.9000 www.wsthz.org

Roman Catholic

305 Circle Ave, Forest Park Sunday Worship, 8:30 am and 11:00 am Adult Bible Class, 10:00am Wheelchair Access to Sanctuary Leonard Payton, Pastor Roney Riley, Assistant Pastor 708-366-3226 | www.stjohnforestpark.org

188 South Oak Park Ave. Saturday Masses: 8:30 a.m. & 5:30 p.m.

Sunday Masses: 9:00 & 11:00 a.m.

Weekday Mass: 8:30 a.m.

Holy Day Masses: As Announced Reconciliation: Saturday 4:15 p.m.

Parish Office: 708-848-4417 School Phone: 708-386-5131

St. John Evangelical Lutheran Church

First Congregational Church of Maywood

We would like to thank the amazing family that run the Kurtako-Nosek Funeral Home 2447 Des Plaines Ave., North Riverside, IL. They went above and beyond and helped us through our time of need for our beloved aunt, Esther Vasquez, who passed away Nov. 29, 2016. Their professionalism and courtesy is remarkable.

Lutheran-Missouri Synod

Methodist

First United Methodist Church of Oak Park

324 N. Oak Park Avenue 708-383-4983 www.firstUMCoakpark.org Sunday School for all Ages, 9am Sunday Worship, 10am Children’s Chapel during Worship Rev. Jenny Weber, Pastor Professionally Staffed Nursery Fellowship Time after Worship

Lutheran—ELCA

United Lutheran Church N. Ridgeland & Greenfield, Oak Park Holy Communion with nursery care and Children’s Chapel each Sunday at 9:30 a.m.

Thomas Mass Third Sunday at 5:00 p.m. www.unitedlutheranchurch.org 708/386-1576 Lutheran-Independent

Grace Lutheran Church

7300 W. Division, River Forest David R. Lyle, Senior Pastor Phyllis N. Kersten Interim Associate Pastor Sunday Worship, 8:30 & 11:00 a.m.

Sunday School/Adult Ed. 9:45 a.m.

Childcare Available

Grace Lutheran School

Preschool - 8th Grade Bill Koehne, Principal 366-6900, graceriverforest.org Lutheran-Missouri Synod

Christ Lutheran Church

607 Harvard Street (at East Av.) Oak Park, Illinois Rev. Robert M. Niehus, Pastor Sunday Bible Class: 9:15 am Sunday School: 9:10 Sunday Worship Services: 8:00 and 10:30 am Church Office: 708/386-3306 www.christlutheranoakpark.org

Presbyterian

Fair Oaks

PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH

744 Fair Oaks Ave. Oak Park 386-4920 Rev. Daniel deBeer, Interim Pastor Sunday Schedule Christian Education for All Ages 9:00am Worship Service 10:00am

St. Edmund Catholic Church

Roman Catholic

St. Bernardine Catholic Church Harrison & Elgin, Forest Park

CELEBRATING OUR 105TH YEAR! Sat. Masses: 8:30am & 5:00pm SUNDAY MASSES: 8:00am & 10:30am 10:30 Mass-Daycare for all ages CCD Sun. 9am-10:15am Reconciliation: Sat. 9am & 4pm Weekday Masses: Monday–Friday 6:30am Church Office: 708-366-0839 CCD: 708-366-3553 www.stbern.com Pastor: Fr. Stanislaw Kuca Traditional Catholic

Child care available 9-11am

fairoakspres.org

OAK PARK MEETING OF FRIENDS (Quakers) Meeting For Worship Sundays at 10:00 a.m. at Oak Park Art League 720 Chicago Ave., Oak Park Please call 708-445-8201 www.oakparkfriends.org

Roman Catholic

Ascension Catholic Church

808 S. East Ave. 708/848-2703 www.ascensionoakpark.com Worship: Saturday Mass 5:00 pm Sunday Masses 7:30, 9:00, 11 am, 5:00 pm Sacrament of Reconciliation 4 pm Saturday Taize Prayer 7:30 pm First Fridays Feb.– Dec. & Jan. 1 Holy Hour 6:00 pm Third Thursdays

Rev. James Hurlbert, Pastor

The Traditional Catholic Latin Mass

Our Lady Immaculate Church 410 Washington Blvd Oak Park. 708-524-2408 Mass Times: Sat. 8:00am Sun. 7:30 & 10:00am Operated by Society of St. Pius X. Confessions 1 hr. before each mass

Third Unitarian Church 11am Service: “Celebration of Life” thirdunitarianchurch.org (773) 626-9385 301 N. Mayfield near Austin and Lake

Unity

UNITY CHURCH OF OAK PARK 405 North Euclid Ave.

Forgiveness brings personal freedom and true joy..

Sunday Services 9 am & 11 am Youth Education 11 am 708-848-0960 — unityoakpark.org

need a new dress code at work? find a new job in our great classified section!

Classified.

In print. Online.

oakpark.com/Classified

Upcoming Religious Holidays

Dec.16-25 14 21 Yule * Litha * 24 25

Posadas Navidenas Hispanic Christian Mawlid an Nabi * Islam Solstice Wicca/Pagan n. hemisphere Wicca/Pagan s. hemisphere Yule Christian Christmas Eve

Christian

Christmas * Christian Feast of the Nativity ** Orthodox Christian 25-Jan 1 Hanukkah * Jewish

Wednesday Journal, December 14, 2016

Ev

Er oa yth Ev k in p E r oa y arkg k p on ar E k

sh re opp s in ou ing pa th rc e yo lm e ur of ha nd

OAKPARK.COM | RIVERFOREST.COM

Check out the mobile version of Visit today!

33

Wednesday Journal, December 14, 2016

Win e

34

r Center e p Su

OAKPARK.COM | RIVERFOREST.COM

HOLIDAY LIQUOr Spec SpecIALS!

tito’s Vodka

2599

Tell your friends!!!

2 Locations!

7714 W. madison, Forest Park 708-366-2500 Mon. - Thurs. 10-10 Friday & Sat. 10-11 Sunday 10-7

105 e. Roosevelt Rd., Lombard 630-629-3330 Mon. - Thurs. 9-10 Friday & Sat. 9-11 Sunday 10-9 On sale December 14 thru December 20, 2016 Right reserved to limit quantities and correct errors.

THE ULTIMATE HOLIDAY GIFT!

Veuve Clicquot

La grande rande Dame 2006

94/100 - Wine Spectator (Competition has it at $125.00 on sale) or

Laurent-Perrier

grand siècle grand Cuvée nV 2 Flute gift set 97/100 - Wine Enthusiast (Competition has it at $115.00 on sale)

99

$

AND

99 750ml

We can ship your 750 ml bottle (wine or liquor) anywhere in the *United States.

Wheather it be 1, 2, 3, 6 or 12 bottles, you can count on Famous to get it there by the holidays!

Some restrictions apply. Please inquire for details.

1.75 L

19

seagram’s gin

13

99

750ml

99

750ml

1.75 L

Jose Cuervo

Forty Creek

especial tequila

Barrel select elect Whisky

1099

999

750ml

miller

Heineken, Dos equis, Blue moon or Leinenkugel’s

1399

YouR CHoiCe

24 PKC

Corona

miller

extra or Light

12.99

1799

750ml

Bud Light or select

12 PKB

Reposado tequila

HOLIDAY Beer SpecIALS! IALS

Budweiser

$

Cazadores

18

1.75 L

1.75 L

1.75 L

750ml

1.75 L

99

1199

1599

2199

Vs Brandy

Canadian Whisky

Vodka

Vs Cognac

e&J

LtD

skyy

Courvoisier

99

750ml

Ciroc

750ml

1.75 L

spiced Rum

2499

1.75 L

2899

Kraken

gin

2599 24

19

12 Year old scotch

99

Hendrick’s

Vodka

Vodka

8

glenlivet

spiced Rum

99

absolut

“Famous” Wine tasting 12:00 - 4:00

sailor Jerry

80 Proof Vodka

1.75 L

Join us EVERY Saturday for a

gilbey’s

30 PKC

10.99

24 PKC

moosehead

8.99

$

12 PKB

Lager

apothic

Kendall-Jackson

meiomi

699

Chardonnay 2014

Pinot noir 2015

Crush, Dark Red or White 750ml Inferno $9.99

Vintner’s Reserve

8

99 750ml

6

12 PKB

Regular or Light

$

genuine Draft

99

old style

High Life

11.99

$

11

Lite or

8.99

$

12 PKB

escapes

Cook’s

sparkling Wines......................... 4.99

martini & Rossi

asti or Rosé ..................................7.99

sonoma Chardonnay 2014 ......... 19.99

mer soleil

Reserve Chardonnay 2014.......... 24.99

90+ Cellars

Rombauer

mumm napa

Windracer anderson Valley

Prosecco ............................................ 7.99 Brut, Cuvée m or Rosé ............ 15.99

Perrier Jouët

grand Brut nV.......................... 29.99

Bollinger

special Cuvée Brut nV ............ 49.99

PLUS, we have hundreds and hundreds more wine choices!

Carneros Chardonnay 2015 .......29.99 Pinot noir 2010 ...........................34.99

Caymus

napa Cabernet 2014 ...................59.99

silver oak

alexander Valley Cab 2012 ........64.99

shafer

1.5 Cabernet 2013 .......................79.99

silver oak

napa Valley Cabernet 2011 ........99.99

6 PKB

16

750ml

sonoma Cutrer

Hard Ciders

6.99

$

Pinot grigio

99

WINE GIFT IDEAS

Cider Boy’s

santa margherita

HOLIDAY WIN WINeS SpecIALS

HOLIDAY SPARKLERS

12 PKB

seagram’s

California

15

99

EVERY DAY

Howling moon

99 750ml

PARTY SIZED

Frontera

Wines

7.99

Wines by Concha y toro $ 1.5 L

Bogle

Barefoot

$

essential Red Blend 2014 $

6.99

7.99

napa

Wines by n.a.P.a. $

Cavit

Pinot grigio $ 1.5 L

8.99

9.99

Kim Crawford sauvignon Blanc $

11.99

90+ Cellars

Lot 94 Rutherford Cabernet $

15.99

Wines

7.99 1.5 L

$

Bolla Wines

10.99 1.5 L

$

Bota Box $

Wines

15.99 3 L equal to 4 750 ml Btls

Wednesday Journal, December 14, 2016

OAKPARK.COM | RIVERFOREST.COM New local ads this week

HOURS: 9:00 A.M.– 5:00 P.M. MON–FRI

WEDNESDAY

CLASSIFIED Deadline is Tuesday at 9:30 a.m.

Place your ad online anytime at: www.OakPark.com/ClassiďŹ ed/

35

YOUR WEEKLY AD

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

Please Check Your Ad: The publisher will not be responsible for more than one incorrect insertion.

Wednesday Journal Classified must be notified before the second insertion.

The newspaper reserves the right to edit or reject any advertisement.

BY PHONE: (708) 613-3333 | BY FAX: (708) 524-0447 | BY E-MAIL: CLASSIFIEDS@OAKPARK.COM | CLASSIFIEDS@RIVERFOREST.COM HELP WANTED

HELP WANTED

Substitute Teachers Needed for River Forest Public Schools District 90. Must have Valid Illinois Teaching License; Professor Educator License with Endorsements (PEL); or, Substitute Teaching License (SUB); or Educator License with Stipulations with a Para-professional Educator Endorsement (ELS).

Required Certification: Current State of Illinois Professional Educator License or Substitute License Certificate must be registered in West Cook Region 06.

Working Conditions: Available to work on an as-needed basis for Early Childhood through 8th grade classrooms, including core subjects, art, music, physical education and special education.

Position not eligible for benefits.

Rate of Pay: $105/day for 1-20 days $115/day thereafter

SUBURBAN RENTALS

SUBURBAN RENTALS

GLA PROPERTY MANAGEMENT, INC. LaVerne Collins Managing broker

Office located at: 320 S. Wisconsin Ave. Oak Park

708-763-9927 www.glapropertymanagement.com

Properties may be broker owned.

Call us for a complete list of rentals available.

M&M property management, inc.

Application Procedure: Interested candidates should complete the on-line application available at district90.org. Please do not send hard copies of supporting documentation, i.e.; cover letters, resumes, etc. to River Forest Public Schools.

Selection Process: If your qualifications meet the District requirements, a District administrator will contact you directly for an interview and to pick up a document packet from the District office.

t XXX NNQSPQNHU DPN 649 Madison Street, Oak Park Oak Park: Studios, 1 & 2 BR from $650-$2000 Forest Park: 1 & 2 BR from $725-$1,000

Apartment listings updated daily at:

ELECTRICIAN’S HELPER PART-TIME Part-time Electrician’s Helper.

Tansportation and some tools.

Call 708-738-3848.

Pastor (job location: Chicago, IL) to plant church, preach & provide spiritual guidance for a new congregation. Master of Divinity or rel. reqd. Mail resumes to: Trinity International Baptist Mission (dba Borderless), 217 Lawndale Ave, Aurora, IL 60506.

PT NANNY FOR NEWBORN Seeking friendly and experienced PT Nanny for our newborn. Must be kind, nurturing & love kids and dogs. We need help in our Oak Park home from 1-5pm Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays, starting in mid-January. Responsibilities include keeping baby engaged and productively entertained, monitoring nap and feeding schedule, light housekeeping of baby items and meal preparation. Great references required. Must have own form of reliable transportation. Contact Lucy’s Mommy @ 312-450-5466.

TAX STAFF ACCOUNTANT Warady & Davis LLP seeks a Tax Staff Accountant. Mail resume to: 1717 Deerfield Rd, Ste 300, Deerfield, IL

CAREGIVERS Cantata Services has immediate assignments for 12/24 hr. care giving in the homes of our clients. Call 708-387-8351 or apply online at cantata.org

CITY RENTALS Augusta & Kildare: PERFECT FOR SENIORS Studio Apartment A gorgeous studio apt. features include kitchen, dining room, large living room, walk-in closet, hardwood floors, incl. heat, appliances, and laundry room, in a beautifully landscaped & well maintained building, quite, safe & secure, rent $585.00, for more information call 773-838-8471.

Augusta & Harding: Beautiful 2-bedroom condo-like apt, in a sunny, safe, secure 8 unit bldg.

Large newly tiled kitchen & bath, hardwood floors, central air, appliances included, tenant pays utilities, rent 785.00, for more information call 773-838-8471.

LARGE 1 BR IN 2 FLAT Austin Area. $700 + Background check $25 + Non-refundable $700 move-in fee.

Call 708-610-2030 after 4pm..

SUBURBAN RENTALS OAK PARK FOREST PARK Studio, 1, and 2 BDRM. Heated.

Dining room. Parking available.

Walk to El. $625-$1250.

www.oakrent.com

AUSTIN CLEAN ROOM With fridge, micro.

Nr Oak Park, Super Walmart, Food 4 Less, bus, & Metra. $116/wk and up.

773-637-5957 Large Sunny Room with fridge & microwave. Near Green line, bus, Oak Park, 24 hour desk, parking lot. $101.00 week & up. New Mgmt.

773-378-8888

SUBURBAN REAL ESTATE

7776 Lake Street, River Forest, IL 60305 708-771-8282 • www.district90.org Data Center Engineer sought by AHEAD, LLC in Chicago, IL (& othr U.S. locs as ndd). Represents Ahead in a pro manner to cust, indstry prtnr & othr Ahead psnl at all tm.

Prfm prdct intlzn & bsln tstng. Trvl on occasion per proj & based on client reqmnts. Aply at jobpostingtoday.com, ref. #89360.

ROOMS FOR RENT

Find your new apartment this Saturday from 10 am – 4pm at 35 Chicago Avenue.

Or call us toll free at 1-888-328-8457 for an appointment.

RIVER FOREST OR OAK PARK 1 BR Hardwood floors throughout.

Spacious walk-in closets. Storage.

Parking. Laundry in building. $800/ mo.

Call 708-657-4226.

CHURCH FOR RENT BEAUTIFUL CHURCH FOR RENT

in OAK PARK. Perfect for a congregation.

Other potential uses. Corner of Scoville & Adams.

708-848-5460 MAYWOOD COUNTRY CHURCH Lovely, old fashioned country church in Maywood, on corner of Fifth and Erie is looking for a roommate or tenant. We are willing to work out a flexible arrangement if you are an appropriate tenant. Various size spaces. Call 708 344-6150, leave a message.

SPACE FOR RENT OAK PARK SPACE Suitable for not-for-profit. Varied uses possible such as school, office spaces, community services center, clinic, etc. Please call 312-810-5948

OFFICE SPACE FOR RENT * RIVER FOREST * 7777 Lake St.

- 3 & 4 room suites

7756 Madison St.

- Store: 926 sq. ft.

- Medical Office Suite, 2800 sq. ft.

* OAK PARK *

6955-6957 North Ave.

- 1, 2 & 3 room office suites

6142-44 Roosevelt Rd. - 5 room office suite

Strand & Browne 708/488-0011

You have jobs. We have readers!

Find the best employees with Wednesday Classified! Call 708-524-8300

HISTORIC MAYWOOD MANOR

902 S. 3RD AVENUE (behind Aldi) Tired of renting? Why not consider buying an affordable 2BR condo w/ 1000 sq ft of living space on this historic site at less than market rents?

Savings are built in from a unique 12 year tax freeze plus lower utility costs from energy saving systems and appliances. Onsite pkg, exterior lighting and enhanced security systems included. Be among the first to benefit from this unique project in which the buyer can have input into the individual unit(s).

Call 708-383-9223.

HOLIDAY BAZAAR YARN GOODS/BAKE SALE on Dec. 17 & 18th after all masses: Sat 5:30; Sun 9 , 11 & 5:30.

St. Edmunds Church, 188 S. Oak Park Ave., Oak Park, Il. All traditional items of clothing and homemade goods. Contact JoAnn Lewandowski, 708 386 1681 lewJoann@hotmail.com

ITEMS FOR SALE HANDCARVED SANTAS Each Santa is hand cast, meticulously detailed, and hand painted to capture the old world charm of the original carving by Timothy Shelven.

Available only in this limited collection, every Santa has been signed and numbered by the original artist. For details and photos, contact LAKESHORE CARVINGS, c/o tfshelven@gmail.com. Custom works available.

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

cat calls

Oak Park’s Original Pet Care Service – Since 1986

Daily dog exercising Complete pet care in your home )PVTF TJUUJOH t 1MBOU DBSF Bonded References

524-1030

FLOORS KLIS FLOORING INC.

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

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

GARAGE/GARAGE DOOR

WANTED TO BUY

Our 70th Year

WANTED MILITARY ITEMS: Helmets, medals, patches, uniforms, weapons, flags, photos, paperwork, Also toy soldiers-lead plastic-other misc. toys. Call Uncle Gary 708-522-3400

Electric Door Openers

BICYCLES

(708) 652-9415

FOR SALE Boys’ 24� Red Magna 15 Speed Glacierpoint bike. Like New: ridden 2x. Bike Shop inspected, ready to ride! $60 Cash.

7:00 am–5:00 pm. 708-715-8834

GUTTERS

CLEANING Pam’s A+ Cleaning Service

A cleaner day is just a phone call away. For a detailed cleaning please call 708-937-9110

ELECTRICAL

Electricians serving the greater Oak Park area. Licensed, Bonded & Insured–Reasonable Pricing & Free Estimates. Kinetic’s proud to say you have never experienced service like this! 15 years experience and dedication.

No job too big or small!

(708) 639-5271

FIREPLACES/ FIREWOOD

Firewood Unlimited

Fast Free Delivery

Mixed hardwoods • $130 F.C. CBh & Mix • $145 F.C. 100% oak • $165 F.C. Cherry or hiCkory • $185 F.C. 100% BirCh • $220 F.C. Seasoned 2 years Stacking Available

847-888-9999 1-800-303-5150

Credit Cards Accepted

Garage Doors & Sales & Service Free Estimates

www.forestdoor.com

ALEX

GUTTER CLEANING Cleaned by Hand Downspouts Snaked All Work Guaranteed

Call 708-567-4680

HANDYMAN CURT'S HANDYMAN SERVICE Drywall Repair • Painting Fans Installed • Carpentry Trim Gutter Cleaning • Window Repair

FREE ESTIMATES Excellent References No Job Too Small

708-488-9411

%,%#42)#!, (!.$9-!. 3%26)#%3 !LL 4YPES OF (OME 2EPAIRS 2EPAIRS )NSTALLATIONS 0ROFESSIONAL 1UALITY 7ORK !T 2EASONABLE 0RICES 0ROMPT 3ERVICE 3MALL *OBS A 3PECIALTY

+$1'<0$1 &2175$&725

:H GR TXDOLW\ ZRUN DW DIIRUGDEOH SULFHV

:D\QH

36

Wednesday Journal, December 14, 2016

OAKPARK.COM | RIVERFOREST.COM

CLASSIFIED ELECTRICAL HANDYMAN

HANDYMAN

HAULING Appliances & Furniture Removal Pickup & Delivery. 708-848-9404

HEATING/ AIR CONDITIONING HEATING AND APPLIANCE EXPERT Furnaces, Boilers and Space Heaters Refrigerators Ranges â&#x20AC;˘ Ovens Washer â&#x20AC;˘ Dryers Rodding Sewers Lic/Bonded 25 yrs experience

FREE SERVICE CALL WITH REPAIR AND SENIOR/VETERAN DISCOUNT.

708-785-2619 or 773-585-5000

PAINTING & DECORATING CLASSIC PAINTING

Fast & Neat Painting/Taping/Plaster Repair Low Cost

708.749.0011

Small & big work. Free estimates.

Complete Plaster, Stucco & Re-Coating Services

708-409-0988 â&#x20AC;˘ 708-738-3848

Licensed, Bonded, Insured, & EPA Certified Expert craftsmanship for over 50 years

Sr. Discounts â&#x20AC;˘ 30 Yrs. Exp | Servicing Oak Park and all surrounding suburbs

H H H H H H H H H H H H H H HH

HUGHâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S ELECTRIC *REMODELING *LIGHTING *SERVICES

Furnace Tune-up *clean burner,

*check drive belts,

With this adâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;$58.00 *adjust burner, *thermostat

LICENSED* BONDED *FULLY INSURED

708/386-2951 t ANYTIME Work Guaranteed

REMODELING HOME MAINTENANCE SERVICES LBDI, Inc. Home Maintenance Services, Residential & Commercial Remodeling Ask for Barry @

630.687.3000

WINDOWS

708-612-4803 H H H H H H H H H H H H H H HH

PLUMBING

Plumbing & Sewer Service FREE ESTIMATES Service in 1 Hour in Most Cases

All Work Guaranteed Lowest Prices Guaranteed FREE Video Inspection with Sewer Rodding /P +PC 5PP -BSHF t /P +PC 5PP 4NBMM Family Owned & Operated

t Lic. #0967

Wednesday Classified 708-613-3333

CALL THE WINDOW MAN!

FAST RELIABLE SERVICE

(708) 452-8929

Licensed

Insured

Ralph Grande Elmwood Park 708-452-8929

Serving Oak Park, River Forest, Forest Park & Riverside Since 1974

PUBLIC NOTICES LEGAL NOTICE

Chertkow and Chertkow (22019) Attorneys for Petitioner 1525 East 53rd Street Chicago, Illinois 60615 STATE OF ILLINOIS) COUNTY OF COOK )ss

Illinois

Classified Advertising Network

AUCTION

HEALTH

State of Illinois Surplus Property Online Auction Equipment, watches, boats, vehicles, knives, jewelry and much more iBid.illinois.gov

Diagnosed with Mesothelioma or Asbestos Lung Cancer? If so, you and your family may be entitled to a substantial financial award. We can help you get cash quick! Call 24/7: 844-577-2347

AUTO DONATIONS

HELP WANTED DRIVERS

DONATE YOUR CAR - 888-433-6199 DRIVER - CDL A TRAINING. $500 - $1,000 IncenBuying?

Selling?

FAST FREE TOWING - 24 hr Response tive Bonus. No Out of Pocket Tuition Cost! Get Your Maximum Tax Deduction - UNITED BREAST CDL in 22 Days. 6 Day Refresher Courses Available.

Renting? Hiring?

CANCER FDN: Providing Breast Cancer Minimum 21 Years. 877-899-1293. EOE Advertise in WEDNESDAY Information & Support Programs www.kllmdrivingacademy.com

CLASSIFIED 708ď&#x161;ş613-3333

PUBLIC NOTICES

PUBLIC NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICE

Now, therefore, unless you, the said Respondent, file your response to said Petition or otherwise make your appearance therein, in the Office of the Clerk of the Circuit Court of Cook County, Illinois, Room 802, Richard J. Daley Center, 50 West Washington Street, in the City of Chicago, Illinois, on or before January 3, 2017, default may be entered against you at any time after that day, and a judgment for Dissolution of Marriage entered in accordance with the prayer of said Petition.

PUBLIC NOTICE Notice is hereby given, pursuant to â&#x20AC;&#x153;An Act in relation to the use of an Assumed Business Name in the conduct or transaction of Business in the State,â&#x20AC;? as amended, that a certification was registered by the undersigned with the County Clerk of Cook County. Registration Number: D16148978 on December 8, 2016. Under the Assumed Business Name of BLUE TRAIN with the business located at: 833 S LOMBARD AVE, OAK PARK, IL 60304. The true and real full name(s) and residence address of the owner(s)/ partner(s) is: PETER DONALD TODD 833 S. LOMBARD AVE OAK PARK, IL 60304

PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a public hearing will be held by the Zoning Board of Appeals of the Village of Oak Park on Wednesday evening, January 4, 2017 at 7:00 p.m. in the Council Chambers of the Village Hall, 123 Madison St., Oak Park, Illinois on the following matter: Cal. No. 01-17-Z: 1154 S. Lombard Avenue, Ambrosia Homes Ambrosia Homes, Applicant, is seeking variations from the following sections of the Zoning Ordinance of the Village of Oak Park to permit the construction of a new single-family residence on a vacant substandard lot of record at the premises commonly known as 1154 S. Lombard Avenue, Oak Park, Illinois; 1.

Section 4.1 (A) (2), which section states that buildings or structures shall not occupy smaller lots than the district requirement of 3,500 square feet, whereas the existing lot is 3,070.75 square feet; and

BROKEN SASH CORDS?

PLUMBING

A-All American

PUBLIC NOTICES

McNulty Plastering & Stucco Co.

We fix any electrical problem and do small jobs Fast Emergency Service | Residential â&#x20AC;˘ Commercial â&#x20AC;˘ Industrial Ceiling Free Home Evaluations | Lic. â&#x20AC;˘ Bonded â&#x20AC;˘ Ins. â&#x20AC;˘ Low Rates â&#x20AC;˘ Free Est. Fans Home Re-wiring â&#x20AC;˘ New Plugs & Switches Added Installed New circuit breaker boxes â&#x20AC;˘ Code violations corrected Serv. upgrades,100-200 amp â&#x20AC;˘ Garage & A/C lines installed

HHHHHHHHHH

BASEMENT CLEANING

PLASTERINGâ&#x20AC;&#x201C; STUCCOING

Let an American Veteran do your work

HHHHHHHHHH

708-296-2060

ELECTRICAL

A&A ELECTRIC

Mikeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Home Repair Drywall H Painting H Tile Plumbing H Electric H Floors Windows H Doors H Siding Ask Us What We Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t Do

(708) 613-3333 â&#x20AC;˘ FAX: (708) 524-0447 â&#x20AC;˘ E-MAIL: CLASSIFIEDS@OAKPARK.COM | CLASSIFIEDS@RIVERFOREST.COM

Circuit Court of Cook County, County Department, Domestic Relations Division.

In re the marriage of Jose G. Torres, Petitioner and Juanita Andrade, Respondent, Case No. 2016D-002033.

The requisite affidavit for publication having been filed, notice is hereby given to you, the above named Respondent, that a Petition has been filed in the Circuit Court of Cook County, Illinois, by the Petitioner, for Dissolution of Marriage and for other relief; and that said suit is now pending.

Now, therefore, unless you, the said Respondent, file your response to said Petition or otherwise make your appearance therein, in the Office of the Clerk of the Circuit Court of Cook County, Illinois, Room 802, Richard J. Daley Center, 50 West Washington Street, in the City of Chicago, Illinois, on or before January 3, 2017, default may be entered against you at any time after that day, and a judgment for Dissolution of Marriage entered in accordance with the prayer of said Petition.

DOROTHY A. BROWN, Clerk.

Published in Wednesday Journal 11/30, 12/7, 12/14/2016

2.

Section 3.5.4 (A) (1) (Minimum Lot Size), which section requires a minimum lot size of 3,500 square feet in the R-4 SingleFamily District, whereas the existing lot is 3,070.75 square feet; and 3.

Section 3.5.4 (B) (3) (Side Yards), which section requires a side yard setback of not less than five (5) feet, whereas the proposal features a single-family residence with three (3) foot setbacks on the north and south lot line.

Those property owners within 500 feet of the Subject Property and those persons with a special interest beyond that of the general public (â&#x20AC;&#x153;Interested Partiesâ&#x20AC;?) wishing to cross-examine witnesses must complete and file an appearance with original signatures with the Village Clerk not later than 5:00 PM on the business day preceding the public hearing.

All papers in connection with the above matter are on file at the Village of Oak Park and available for examination by interested parties by contacting the Zoning Administrator at 708.358.5449.

DATED AT OAK PARK, ILLINOIS, this 14th Day of December, 2016 Published in Wednesday Journal 12/14/2016

LEGAL NOTICE Chertkow and Chertkow (22019) Attorneys for Petitioner 1525 East 53rd Street Chicago, Illinois 60615 STATE OF ILLINOIS) COUNTY OF COOK )ss Circuit Court of Cook County, County Department, Domestic Relations Division.

In re the marriage of Maria Eusebia Zavala, Petitioner and Jesus Zavala, Respondent, Case No. 2016D-010885.

The requisite affidavit for publication having been filed, notice is hereby given to you, the above named Respondent, that a Petition has been filed in the Circuit Court of Cook County, Illinois, by the Petitioner, for Dissolution of Marriage and for other relief; and that said suit is now pending.

DOROTHY A. BROWN, Clerk.

Published in Wednesday Journal 11/30, 12/7, 12/14/2016

LEGAL NOTICE Chertkow and Chertkow (22019) Attorneys for Petitioner 1525 East 53rd Street Chicago, Illinois 60615 STATE OF ILLINOIS) COUNTY OF COOK )ss Circuit Court of Cook County, County Department, Domestic Relations Division.

In re the marriage of Oscar Chavez, Petitioner and Susana Arellano Reyes, Respondent, Case No. 2016D-011185.

The requisite affidavit for publication having been filed, notice is hereby given to you, the above named Respondent, that a Petition has been filed in the Circuit Court of Cook County, Illinois, by the Petitioner, for Dissolution of Marriage and for other relief; and that said suit is now pending.

Now, therefore, unless you, the said Respondent, file your response to said Petition or otherwise make your appearance therein, in the Office of the Clerk of the Circuit Court of Cook County, Illinois, Room 802, Richard J. Daley Center, 50 West Washington Street, in the City of Chicago, Illinois, on or before January 17, 2017, default may be entered against you at any time after that day, and a judgment for Dissolution of Marriage entered in accordance with the prayer of said Petition.

DOROTHY A. BROWN, Clerk.

Published in Wednesday Journal 12/14, 12/21, 12/28/2016

PUBLIC NOTICE Notice is hereby given, pursuant to â&#x20AC;&#x153;An Act in relation to the use of an Assumed Business Name in the conduct or transaction of Business in the State,â&#x20AC;? as amended, that a certification was regisered by the undersigned with the County Clerk of Cook County. Registration Number: D16148791 on November 22, 2016 Under the Assumed Business Name of BENZKOFER COMMUNICATIONS with the business located at: 201 N HARVEY AVE., OAK PARK, IL 60302.

The true and real full name(s) and residence address of the owner(s)/partner(s) is: STEPHAN BENZKOFER 201 N HARVEY AVE. OAK PARK, IL 60302 Published in Wednesday Journal 11/30, 12/7, 12/14/2016

PUBLIC NOTICE Notice is hereby given, pursuant to â&#x20AC;&#x153;An Act in relation to the use of an Assumed Business Name in the conduct or transaction of Business in the State,â&#x20AC;? as amended, that a certification was registered by the undersigned with the County Clerk of Cook County. Registration Number: D16148870 on November 29, 2016.

Under the Assumed Business Name of OP FP PARTNERS with the business located at: 7640 WILCOX ST, FOREST PARK IL 60130. The true and real full name(s) and residence address of the owner(s)/ partner(s) is: JULIE LOUISE THOMPSON 7640 WILCOX ST FOREST PARK, IL 60130 PATRICIA EILEEN MCGUINNESS 7640 WILCOX ST FOREST PARK, IL 60130 Published in Forest Park Review 11/30, 12/7, 12/14/2016

Published in Wednesday Journal 12/14, 12/21, 12/28/2016

REAL ESTATE FOR SALE IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENTâ&#x20AC;&#x201C; CHANCERY DIVISION CAPITAL ONE, N.A. SUCCESSOR

BY MERGER TO ING BANK, FSB Plaintiff, -v.STEVEN C. RUECKERT, MORTGAGE ELECTRONIC REGISTRATION SYSTEMS, INC. Defendants 15 CH 009679 1323 ASHLAND AVENUE RIVER FOREST, IL 60305 NOTICE OF SALE PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above cause on October 4, 2016, an agent for The Judicial Sales Corporation, will at 10:30 AM on January 6, 2017, at The Judicial Sales Corporation, One South Wacker Driveâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;24th Floor, CHICAGO, IL, 60606, sell at public auction to the highest bidder, as set forth below, the following described real estate: Commonly known as 1323 ASHLAND AVENUE, RIVER FOREST, IL 60305 Property Index No. 15-01-113-006-0000. The real estate is improved with a single family residence. Sale terms: 25% down of the highest bid by certified funds at the close of the sale payable to The Judicial Sales Corporation. No third party checks will be accepted. The balance, including the Judicial sale fee for Abandoned Residential Property Municipality Relief Fund, which is calculated on residential real estate at the rate of $1 for each $1,000 or fraction thereof of the amount paid by the purchaser not to exceed $300, in certified funds/or wire transfer, is due within twenty-four (24) hours. No fee shall be paid by the mortgagee acquiring the residential real estate pursuant to its credit bid at the sale or by any mortgagee, judgment creditor, or other lienor acquiring the residential real estate whose rights in and to the residential real estate arose prior to the sale. The subject property is subject to general real estate taxes, special assessments, or special taxes levied against said real estate and is offered for sale without any representation as to quality or quantity of title and without recourse to Plaintiff and in â&#x20AC;&#x153;AS ISâ&#x20AC;? condition. The sale is further subject to confirmation by the court. Upon payment in full of the amount bid, the purchaser will receive a Certificate of Sale that will entitle the purchaser to a deed to the real estate after confirmation of the sale. The property will NOT be open for inspection and plaintiff makes no representation as to the condition of the property.

Prospective bidders are admonished to check the court file to verify all information. If this property is a condominium unit, the purchaser of the unit at the foreclosure sale, other than a mortgagee, shall pay the assessments and the legal fees required by The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/9(g) (1) and (g)(4). If this property is a condominium unit which is part of a common interest community, the

Wednesday Journal, December 14, 2016

OAKPARK.COM | RIVERFOREST.COM

CLASSIFIED

37

(708) 613-3333 • FAX: (708) 524-0447 • E-MAIL: CLASSIFIEDS@OAKPARK.COM | CLASSIFIEDS@RIVERFOREST.COM

Let the sun shine in...

Public Notice: Your right to know In print • Online • Available to you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, every day of the year OakPark.com | RiverForest.com | PublicNoticeIllinois.com REAL ESTATE FOR SALE

REAL ESTATE FOR SALE

REAL ESTATE FOR SALE

REAL ESTATE FOR SALE

REAL ESTATE FOR SALE

REAL ESTATE FOR SALE

REAL ESTATE FOR SALE

purchaser of the unit at the foreclosure sale other than a mortgagee shall pay the assessments required

by The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/18.5(g-1). IF YOU ARE THE MORTGAGOR (HOMEOWNER), YOU HAVE THE RIGHT TO REMAIN IN POSSESSION FOR 30 DAYS AFTER ENTRY OF AN ORDER OF POSSESSION, IN ACCORDANCE WITH SECTION 15-1701(C) OF THE ILLINOIS MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE LAW. You will need a photo identification issued by a government agency (driver’s license, passport, etc.) in order to gain entry into our building and the foreclosure sale room in Cook County and the same identification for sales held at other county venues where The Judicial Sales Corporation conducts foreclosure sales. For information, examine the court file or contact Plaintiff’s attorney: CODILIS & ASSOCIATES, P.C., 15W030 NORTH FRONTAGE ROAD, SUITE 100, BURR RIDGE, IL 60527, (630) 794-9876 Please refer to file number 1415-09789. THE JUDICIAL SALES CORPORATION One South Wacker Drive, 24th Floor, Chicago, IL 60606-4650 (312) 236-SALE You can also visit The Judicial Sales Corporation at www.tjsc.com for a 7 day status report of pending sales. CODILIS & ASSOCIATES, P.C. 15W030 NORTH FRONTAGE ROAD, SUITE 100 BURR RIDGE, IL 60527 (630) 794-5300 E-Mail: pleadings@il.cslegal.com Attorney File No. 14-15-09789 Attorney ARDC No. 00468002 Attorney Code. 21762 Case Number: 15 CH 009679 TJSC#: 36-12160 NOTE: Pursuant to the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, you are advised that Plaintiff’s attorney is deemed to be a debt collector attempting to collect a debt and any information obtained will be used for that purpose.

I708371

within 24 hours. No refunds. The property will NOT be open for inspection.

For information call Mr. Kenneth M. Battle at Plaintiff’s Attorney, Quintairos, Prieto, Wood & Boyer, P.A., 233 South Wacker Drive, Chicago, Illinois 60606. (312) 5660040. 85269 INTERCOUNTY JUDICIAL SALES CORPORATION Selling Officer, (312) 444-1122

UNKNOWN OWNERS AND NON-RECORD CLAIMANTS Defendants, 16 CH 6935 NOTICE OF SALE PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above entitled cause Intercounty Judicial Sales Corporation will on Wednesday, January 4, 2017 at the hour of 11 a.m. in their office at 120 West Madison Street, Suite 718A, Chicago, Illinois, sell at public auction to the highest bidder for cash, as set forth below, the following described mortgaged real estate: P.I.N. 16-17-327-007-0000.

Commonly known as 1162 South Harvey Avenue, Oak Park, Illinois 60304.

The mortgaged real estate is improved with a single family residence. If the subject mortgaged real estate is a unit of a common interest community, the purchaser of the unit other than a mortgagee shall pay the assessments required by subsection (g-1) of Section 18.5 of the Condominium Property Act. Sale terms: 10% down by certified funds, balance, by certified funds, within 24 hours. No refunds. The property will NOT be open for inspection.

For information call The Sales Department at Plaintiff’s Attorney, Anselmo Lindberg Oliver LLC, 1771 West Diehl Road, Naperville, Illinois 60563-1890. (630) 453-6960. For Bidding instructions visit www.falillinois.com 24 hours prior to sale.

F16050106 INTERCOUNTY JUDICIAL SALES CORPORATION Selling Officer, (312) 444-1122

Property Municipality Relief Fund, which is calculated on residential real estate at the rate of $1 for each $1,000 or fraction thereof of the amount paid by the purchaser not to exceed $300, in certified funds/or wire transfer, is due within twenty-four (24) hours. No fee shall be paid by the mortgagee acquiring the residential real estate pursuant to its credit bid at the sale or by any mortgagee, judgment creditor, or other lienor acquiring the residential real estate whose rights in and to the residential real estate arose prior to the sale. The subject property is subject to general real estate taxes, special assessments, or special taxes levied against said real estate and is offered for sale without any representation as to quality or quantity of title and without recourse to Plaintiff and in “AS IS” condition. The sale is further subject to confirmation by the court.

Upon payment in full of the amount bid, the purchaser will receive a Certificate of Sale that will entitle the purchaser to a deed to the real estate after confirmation of the sale. Where a sale of real estate is made to satisfy a lien prior to that of the United States, the United States shall have one year from the date of sale within which to redeem, except that with respect to a lien arising under the internal revenue laws the period shall be 120 days or the period allowable for redemption under State law, whichever is longer, and in any case in which, under the provisions of section 505 of the Housing Act of 1950, as amended (12 U.S.C. 1701k), and subsection (d) of section 3720 of title 38 of the United States Code, the right to redeem does not arise, there shall be no right of redemption. The property will NOT be open for inspection and plaintiff makes no representation as to the condition of the property.

Prospective bidders are admonished to check the court file to verify all information. If this property is a condominium unit, the purchaser of the unit at the foreclosure sale, other than a mortgagee, shall pay the assessments and the legal fees required by The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/9(g) (1) and (g)(4). If this property is a condominium unit which is part of a common interest community, the purchaser of the unit at the foreclosure sale other than a mortgagee shall pay the assessments required

by The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/18.5(g-1). IF YOU ARE THE MORTGAGOR (HOMEOWNER), YOU HAVE THE RIGHT TO REMAIN IN POSSESSION FOR 30 DAYS AFTER ENTRY OF AN ORDER OF POSSESSION, IN ACCORDANCE WITH SECTION 15-1701(C) OF THE ILLINOIS MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE LAW. You will need a photo identification issued by a government agency (driver’s license, passport, etc.) in order to gain entry into our building and the foreclosure sale room in Cook County and the same identification for sales held at other county venues where The Judicial Sales Corporation conducts foreclosure sales. For information, contact Plaintiff’s attorney: JOHNSON, BLUMBERG & ASSOCIATES, LLC, 230 W. Monroe Street, Suite #1125, Chicago, IL 60606, (312) 541-9710 Please refer to file number 15-2479. THE JUDICIAL SALES CORPORATION One South Wacker Drive, 24th Floor, Chicago, IL 60606-4650 (312) 236-SALE You can also visit The Judicial Sales Corporation at www. tjsc.com for a 7 day status report of pending sales. JOHNSON, BLUMBERG & ASSOCIATES, LLC 230 W. Monroe Street, Suite #1125 Chicago, IL 60606 (312) 541-9710 E-Mail: ilpleadings@johnsonblumberg.com Attorney File No. 152479 Attorney Code. 40342 Case Number: 15 CH 13234 TJSC#: 3613463 NOTE: Pursuant to the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, you are advised that Plaintiff’s attorney is deemed to be a debt collector attempting to collect a debt and any information obtained will be used for that purpose.

I708988

GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above cause on October 13, 2016, an agent for The Judicial Sales Corporation, will at 10:30 AM on January 18, 2017, at The Judicial Sales Corporation, One South Wacker Drive–24th Floor, CHICAGO, IL, 60606, sell at public auction to the highest bidder, as set forth below, the following described real estate: Commonly known as 420 S. KENILWORTH AVENUE UNIT #3, OAK PARK, IL 60302 Property Index No. 16-07326-025-1003. The real estate is improved with a residence. Sale terms: 25% down of the highest bid by certified funds at the close of the sale payable to The Judicial Sales Corporation. No third party checks will be accepted. The balance, including the Judicial sale fee for Abandoned Residential Property Municipality Relief Fund, which is calculated on residential real estate at the rate of $1 for each $1,000 or fraction thereof of the amount paid by the purchaser not to exceed $300, in certified funds/or wire transfer, is due within twenty-four (24) hours. No fee shall be paid by the mortgagee acquiring the residential real estate pursuant to its credit bid at the sale or by any mortgagee, judgment creditor, or other lienor acquiring the residential real estate whose rights in and to the residential real estate arose prior to the sale. The subject property is subject to general real estate taxes, special assessments, or special taxes levied against said real estate and is offered for sale without any representation as to quality or quantity of title and without recourse to Plaintiff and in “AS IS” condition. The sale is further subject to confirmation by the court. Upon payment in full of the amount bid, the purchaser will receive a Certificate of Sale that will entitle the purchaser to a deed to the real estate after confirmation of the sale. The property will NOT be open for inspection and plaintiff makes no representation as to the condition of the property.

Prospective bidders are admonished to check the court file to verify all information. If this property is a condominium unit, the purchaser of the unit at the foreclosure sale, other than a mortgagee, shall pay the assessments and the legal fees required by The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/9(g)

(1) and (g)(4). If this property is a condominium unit which is part of a common interest community, the purchaser of the unit at the foreclosure sale other than a mortgagee shall pay the assessments required

by The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/18.5(g-1). IF YOU ARE THE MORTGAGOR (HOMEOWNER), YOU HAVE THE RIGHT TO REMAIN IN POSSESSION FOR 30 DAYS AFTER ENTRY OF AN ORDER OF POSSESSION, IN ACCORDANCE WITH SECTION 15-1701(C) OF THE ILLINOIS MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE LAW. You will need a photo identification issued by a government agency (driver’s license, passport, etc.) in order to gain entry into our building and the foreclosure sale room in Cook County and the same identification for sales held at other county venues where The Judicial Sales Corporation conducts foreclosure sales. For information, examine the court file or contact Plaintiff’s attorney: CODILIS & ASSOCIATES, P.C., 15W030 NORTH FRONTAGE ROAD, SUITE 100, BURR RIDGE, IL 60527, (630) 794-9876 Please refer to file number 1416-06735. THE JUDICIAL SALES CORPORATION One South Wacker Drive, 24th Floor, Chicago, IL 60606-4650 (312) 236-SALE You can also visit The Judicial Sales Corporation at www.tjsc.com for a 7 day status report of pending sales. CODILIS & ASSOCIATES, P.C. 15W030 NORTH FRONTAGE ROAD, SUITE 100 BURR RIDGE, IL 60527 (630) 794-5300 E-Mail: pleadings@il.cslegal.com Attorney File No. 14-16-06735 Attorney ARDC No. 00468002 Attorney Code. 21762 Case Number: 16 CH 008186 TJSC#: 36-12490 NOTE: Pursuant to the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, you are advised that Plaintiff’s attorney is deemed to be a debt collector attempting to collect a debt and any information obtained will be used for that purpose.

I708868

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT– CHANCERY DIVISION 21ST MORTGAGE CORPORATION; Plaintiff, vs.

MARY A. LENGERICH AKA M. ANGELA LENGERICH; UNKNOWN OWNERS AND NON RECORD CLAIMANTS; Defendants, 09 CH 50085 NOTICE OF SALE PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above entitled cause Intercounty Judicial Sales Corporation will on Tuesday, January 3, 2017 at the hour of 11 a.m. in their office at 120 West Madison Street, Suite 718A, Chicago, Illinois, sell at public auction to the highest bidder for cash, as set forth below, the following described mortgaged real estate: Commonly known as 612 South Humphrey Avenue, Oak Park, IL 60304.

P.I.N. 16-17-115-005.

The mortgaged real estate is improved with a single family residence. If the subject mortgaged real estate is a unit of a common interest community, the purchaser of the unit other than a mortgagee shall pay the assessments required by subsection (g-1) of Section 18.5 of the Condominium Property Act. Sale terms: 10% down by certified funds, balance, by certified funds,

I708603

THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT– CHANCERY DIVISION THE BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON TRUST COMPANY, N.A., AS TRUSTEE, IN TRUST FOR AND FOR THE BENEFIT OF THE CERTIFICATEHOLDERS OF MULTI-CLASS MORTGAGE PASS-THROUGH CERTIFICATES OF CHASEFLEX TRUST, SERIES 2007-2 Plaintiff, vs.

WILLIAM H. FARLEY, JR. AKA WILLIAM H. FARLEY, GALE FOSTER FARLEY AKA FARLEY G. FOSTER, CITIBANK, N.A, UNKNOWN OWNERS, GENERALLY, AND NON-RECORD CLAIMANTS Defendants, 09 CH 9575 NOTICE OF SALE PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above entitled cause on September 16, 2016 Intercounty Judicial Sales Corporation will on Wednesday, January 4, 2017 at the hour of 11 a.m. in their office at 120 West Madison Street, Suite 718A, Chicago, Illinois, sell at public auction to the highest bidder for cash, as set forth below, the following described mortgaged real estate: P.I.N. 16-06-119-019-0000.

Commonly known as 1023 North Oak Park Avenue, Oak Park, IL 60302.

The mortgaged real estate is improved with a single family residence. If the subject mortgaged real estate is a unit of a common interest community, the purchaser of the unit other than a mortgagee shall pay the assessments required by subsection (g-1) of Section 18.5 of the Condominium Property Act. Sale terms: 10% down by certified funds, balance, by certified funds, within 24 hours. No refunds. The property will NOT be open for inspection.

For information call Ms. Kimberly S. Reid at Plaintiff’s Attorney, Kluever & Platt, L.L.C., 65 East Wacker Place, Chicago, Illinois 60601. (312) 236-0077. SPSL.0299 INTERCOUNTY JUDICIAL SALES CORPORATION Selling Officer, (312) 444-1122 I708657

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT– CHANCERY DIVISION WELLS FARGO BANK, N.A. Plaintiff, vs.

CHARLES L. MOORE AKA CHARLES MOORE; PATRICIA A. MOORE AKA PATRICIA ANN MOORE AKA PATRICIA MOORE; US BANK, N.A.;

I708706

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT– CHANCERY DIVISION BAYVIEW LOAN SERVICING, LLC Plaintiff, -v.DUSTIN M. PARK, SARAH R. MILLER, MORTGAGE ELECTRONIC REGISTRATION SYSTEMS, INC., AS NOMINEE FOR PERL MORTGAGE, INC., AN ILLINOIS CORPORATION, CAPITAL ONE BANK (USA), N.A., VILLAGE OF LANSING, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA Defendants 15 CH 13234 1013 S. HARVEY AVE. Oak Park, IL 60304 NOTICE OF SALE PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above cause on November 17, 2016, an agent for The Judicial Sales Corporation, will at 10:30 AM on January 17, 2017, at The Judicial Sales Corporation, One South Wacker Drive–24th Floor, CHICAGO, IL, 60606, sell at public auction to the highest bidder, as set forth below, the following described real estate: Commonly known as 1013 S. HARVEY AVE., Oak Park, IL 60304 Property Index No. 16-17-310-026-0000 Vol. 143.

The real estate is improved with a single family residence. The judgment amount was $319,106.13.

Sale terms: 25% down of the highest bid by certified funds at the close of the sale payable to The Judicial Sales Corporation. No third party checks will be accepted.

The balance, including the Judicial sale fee for Abandoned Residential

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT– CHANCERY DIVISION MTGLQ INVESTORS, L. P. Plaintiff, -v.JEANELL P. EDWARDS, 420 SOUTH KENILWORTH CONDOMINIUM BUILDING ASSOCIATION Defendants 16 CH 008186 420 S. KENILWORTH AVENUE UNIT #3 OAK PARK, IL 60302 NOTICE OF SALE PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY

MORTGAGE DIRECTORY

MORTGAGE RATE DIRECTORY LENDER COMMUNITY BANK OF OAK PARK - RIVER FOREST

(708) 660-7006 1001 Lake St., Oak Park IL 60301 www.cboprf.com

AMOUNT

RATE/YR

80% 80% 80% 80% 80% 80%

4.125% / 30 yr. fixed 3.875% / 20 yr. fixed 3.375% / 15 yr. fixed 3.500% / 5 yr. ARM 3.625% / 7 yr. ARM 3.875% / 10 yr. ARM

POINTS/ APP. FEE 0%/$550 0%/$550 0%/$550 0%/$550 0%/$550 0%/$550

A.P.R.

4.194% 3.970% 3.496% 3.808% 3.825% 3.944%

· Approved IHDA Mortgage Program Lender · Financing available up to 97% LTV Construction Loans and Home Equity Lines of Credit available – call for terms.

Mortgage rates are accurate as of Monday afternoon. Due to the fluctuation of mortgage rates, the rates may vary before publication. Contact your mortgage lender for complete details. Mortgage rates vary in APR and other qualifying factors.

To Advertise your Mortgage Rates, call Mary Ellen Nelligan: 708/613-3342

38

S P O R T S

Wednesday Journal, December 14, 2016

OAKPARK.COM | RIVERFOREST.COM

Surging Huskies pick up three more wins Scott, Gross and Fuller power offense; formidable defense has been a team effort

Senior forward Cameron Gross oss contributed nine points and sophomore guard Dashon Enoch had six.

OPRF (7-1, 1-0 West Suburban n Silver) excelled defensively by forcing the Lions into 20 turnovers. novers.

By LAUREN RECCHIA “Coach (Matt Maloney) always ys tells us that if our offense Contributing Reporter isn’t scoring then our offense will come from our defense,” Gross said. “When we turn our defense up, that’s how we The Oak Park and River Forest High School basketball get all of our points.” team should be in the thick of the West Suburban ConferWhile their style of play is known as “Huskie ence Silver Division race this season. Based on their confer- Havoc,” this season’s version includes dashes of ence opener, a 66-53 win over host Lyons Township, it could maturity and grittiness. be argued (albeit prematurely) the Huskies even have the In other games last week, Gross oss (18 points, 5 relook of conference favorite. bounds) and Enoch h (16 points, 3 asThe Huskies’ impressive win at Lyons Townsists) starred in a 53-50 win against ship Friday in La Grange provided a perfect Brother Rice, while ile Scott scored 18 launching point for conference play. points and hauled down 7 rebounds in For more sports news a 69-55 victory overr Crete-Monee at the Trailing the Lions 18-13 lead early in the second quarter, OPRF went on a 15-3 run to take Derrick Rose Shootout. otout. Gross chipped LOG ON TO OAKPARK.COM a 28-21 lead at halftime. The Huskies went on a in 16 points and five ve boards.

7-0 spurt to start the fourth quarter, extending “We have had thee most difficult early their lead to 57-42 with about three minutes left in the game. schedule we’ve had in years and d are one possession Senior forward Jared Scott and junior guard Isaiah Fuller away from being 8-0,” Maloney y said. “We still have scored 18 points apiece for the Huskies. The 6-foot-6 Scott, in a long ways to go to compete with the top teams in the midst of a superb senior campaign, also hauled down 12 our conference, Pontiac and our ur sectional which is rebounds, went 4-for-4 at the charity stripe and had a spec- always the toughest in the state.” e.” tacular slam (rapidly becoming a common occurrence durThe team’s only loss (Fenwick ck beat OPRF 63-57 in ing games). Scott has one dunk in each of the Huskies’ last overtime) even served a valuable le purpose. four games.

“We use the loss to Fenwick k as a fuel to our fire,”

Gross said. “We’re going to play every game like it’s our last. Our senior leadership with Jared Scott and myself, along with the younger guys stepping up, have been our strong points this season.

“We just have to learn from our mistakes, move on to each game and keep getting better every day.”

The Huskies have three straight road conference games this week at York (Tuesday, Dec. 13 at 7:30 p.m.), at Glenbard West (Friday, Dec. 16. at 7:30 p.m.) and at Proviso West (Saturday, Dec. 17 at 1:30 p.m.).

WEB EXTRA

WILLIAM CAMARGO/Staff Photographer

HUSKIES

Set bar high

EDGE

from page 40 all-arounders and I think the next couple of places we’re going to bump them back and forth (between varsity and junior varsity) until it’s time for the state series,” Wright said.

At Saturday’s seven-team invite, Jochaniewicz won vault (9.4) with a solid pike Tsukahara and was fourth on floor (9.2) and seventh in all-around (33.85).

Against LTHS, Jochaniewicz won allaround (35.775), beam (9.025) and uneven bars (9.025) and was second on floor (8.925) and vault (8.8). Wright said Jochaniewicz probably would have broken 36.00 if the dual hadn’t used the average score of two judges.

“She was on fire Wednesday. She was amazing. It was just an awesome performance,” Wright said. “She’s poised to have an amazing year. Alyona’s getting real consistent. She’s really, really focused. She’s just your ideal gymnast. I’m really hoping she has an awesome year.”

Luptak tied for seventh on uneven bars Saturday (8.45). Weeks was 10th in allaround (32.85), 11th on vault (8.7) and tied for 11th on floor (8.65).

Taking third at LTHS were Preys on uneven bars (8.3) and beam (7.9), Phillpotts on floor (8.55) and Moore on vault (8.55).

At the season-opening Rolling Mead-

OPRF senior forward Cameron Gross’ leadership has guided the Huskies to a 7-1 record.

Photo by Deb Patnode

OPRF senior Alyona Jochaniewicz finished 26th in all-around (35.50) at the state meet last year. ows Invite Dec. 3, OPRF was fourth (65.65) with Jochaniewicz third on beam (8.85) and Weeks and Shainis eighth (8.5) and 10th (8.35). Teams enter just two gymnasts per event with each gymnast only competing once.

This season, Jochaniewicz feels that floor, not uneven bars, could be her strongest event. She’s added higher difficulty with a handspring, layout, layout to complete her second tumbling pass. She also wants to upgrade her vault.

“I think just staying together as a team (is important) and really bonding and just getting to know each other and pushing each other through everything,” Jochaniewicz said. “(My advice is) just have the heart and dedication in gymnastics and you can do anything.

DEVELOPMENT ACADEMY

Winter Soccer

Training Academy

Details and online registration available at chicagoedgesc.com or call 978-799-5840

January 15 thru March 19 at Beye School Edge Academy is a weekly soccer training program for players in Kindergarten through 5th grade.

Chicago Edge professional coaches help players develop their skills in a camp-like atmosphere.

OAKPARK.COM | RIVERFOREST.COM

S P O R T S

Wednesday Journal, December 14, 2016

39

OPRF hockey excelling on and off ice

Huskies continue remarkable resurgence under Dyson

By MARTY FARMER

R

Sports Editor

ap and pop music are typically the tunes played during an Oak Park and River Forest High School boys hockey game at the Paul Hruby Ice Arena at the Ridgeland Common Recreation Complex.

Like the Chicago Blackhawks, the Huskies’ favorite song is “Chelsea Dagger” by the Fratellis since it’s played every time OPRF scores a goal.

The Scottish band’s signature hit was played five times during a game against Sandburg on Dec. 11. Unfortunately, the visiting Eagles scored six goals sans musical accompaniment en route to a 6-5 victory.

The Huskies blew a 3-0 lead en route to their fifth loss in six games.

Despite the recent skid, relax OPRF hockey fans. The Huskies are 19-13-1 overall with an 11-5 record in the Illinois West High School Hockey League.

More importantly, their best hockey is likely still to come.

“We’re in a little bit of a slump but we’ll pick things back up,” OPRF forward Liam Burns said. “We are a pretty young team and started off the season really well.

We’re looking forward to finishing strong in the second half of the season.”

Burns’ optimism makes sense considering the Huskies talented roster and recent track record of success. Last season, OPRF upset Brother Rice and Stevenson in the playoffs before succumbing to eventual state champion New Trier in a spirited quarterfinal.

Burns leads the Huskies with 17 goals and 21 assists.

“I think Liam is sort of wagering an AllState campaign,” OPRF coach Dave Dyson said. “He’s a forward but we move him around a bit on the power play.”

Burns is supported by freshman forward sensation RJ Jones, who has a team-high 18 goals along with 11 assists and PJ Gonzalez (10 goals, 8 assists). Forwards Harrison Proctor, Hank Burkett and Pat Schmidt have scored eight goals apiece.

Defensively, OPRF features a pair of ter-

Photos by Dawn Gonzalez

(Above) OPRF players, left to right, Sam Pecenka (#2), Hank Burkett (#9), and RJ Jones (#77) collaborate to score a goal against Sandburg Dec. 11.

(Left) Addison Ditzel, Ben Ostler, Sam Guillot and Glendon Opalski at the Huskies’ “Hunger Checks Hockey” event. and Sam Guillot.

“Last year we were very strong up front and scored a lot of goals,” Pospisil said. “The team dynamic is different this season as we are very strong defensively. We have seen a lot rific goaltenders in Ben Ostler of good things on the ice from and Owen Bell. Ostler has 393 everybody. saves and allowed 53 goals.

“Even in our (6-5) loss against “When Ben is on his game, Stevenson, we were down 5-3 and he’s incredible,” OPRF defenscored two goals in two minutes seman Spencer Smith said. to tie the game. We have the ca“I think he had like 44 saves pability to play against good against Stevenson in the state teams.” playoffs last year.”

OPRF will benefit from an exA senior-laden group of detended holiday break in order to fensemen including CJ PospiSPENCER SMITH rest and practice. sil, Paul Kovatchis and Eric OPRF defenseman “So far, so good,” Dyson said Mulshine along with Smith about the Huskies’ position. (team captain) anchor the unit.

“We’re a pretty talented group. I Avery Anderson, another notathink we are still working on what I would ble defenseman, is out with an injury. call hockey immaturity.”

Other contributors include Sam Pecen“After the holidays, we will look to turn ka, Addison Ditzel, Riley Moran, Andrew it up in both conference play and the state Johnson, Adam Susman, Glendon Opalski

“Now our goals are to win conference and make a deep run in the playoffs.”

playoffs.

Off the ice, OPRF remains committed to making a difference in the community. The Huskies took part in their annual “Hunger Checks Hockey” event this month. The team distributed flyers and then picked up donations from houses across the OPRF community. The players, along with some parents, spent about two hours delivering, sorting and shelving the donations at the Oak Park Food Pantry.

“I didn’t get a final number but I think we collected about 25,000 pounds of food to the local community,” Dyson said. “Being part of this team goes beyond just playing hockey. Our guys help people in the community and make sure they take care of their academics.”

As for the remainder of the season, the Huskies have high expectations.

“I remember coming into the program as a freshman and hoping we could just win a couple of games,” Smith said. “Now our goals are to win conference and make a deep run in the playoffs.”

40

Wednesday Journal, December 14, 2016

Surging Huskies pick up three more wins 38

@ @OakParkSports

SPORTS

OPRF Hockey 39

Success becoming routine for OPRF Led by state qualifier Jochaniewicz, Huskies’ expectations remain on the rise

By BILL STONE

L

Photo by Deb Patnode

OPRF gymnast Natalie Weeks is a three-time sectional qualifier. She advanced individually last year in all-around and uneven bars.

Contributing Reporter

ast girls gymnastics season, Oak Park and River Forest senior Alyona Jochaniewicz qualified for her first state meet as an all-arounder even after suffering a concussion and then a sprained finger at regionals.

“I’m still kind of surprised,” Jochaniewicz said. “I know all of my hard work has paid off and I’m glad I made it there. Just experiencing that was amazing and I’m hoping to experience it again.”

The breakthroughs for Jochaniewicz and the Huskies could be even bigger this season.

They capped their best season in years by qualifying for sectionals as a team. Senior Natalie Weeks and sophomores Grace Luptak and Cecilia Doyle also return from that lineup and senior Camille Moore. Add to that Sophia Preys and Zion Phillpotts, two new sophomores to the program, and freshman Jenna Shainis.

Last season’s Huskies scored as high as 137.70 points and were sixth at the Glenbard West Sectional (136.025) after a qualifying 135.90 at the Glenbard East Regional.

In their first two regularly-scored meets, the Huskies beat Lyons Township for the second year in a row 131.475 - 128.925 Dec. 7 in La Grange and were fifth at Saturday’s

FREE* Personal Training $99* Enrollment

*3 training sessions. New members only. Restrictions apply. Offer ends 12/31/16.

Gift Certificates Available 301 Lake St., Oak Park

(708) 386-2175

www.TENandFiT.com

Hinsdale Central Invitational (130.80) with several absences.

“I’m excited when everybody is healthy and we can put our good lineup on the floor,” OPRF coach Kris Wright said Saturday. “I think we could be a really strong team as everyone puts it together.”

At state, Jochaniewicz finished 26th in all-around (35.50) after her 35.875 at sectionals edged the 35.825 at-large state cut. She also qualified for sectionals on all four events and her sectional scores on uneven parallel bars (9.025) and floor exercise (9.125) just missed the respective state cuts of 9.05 and 9.2.

“I think (reaching state) just made me stronger as a gymnast, as a person. I want to stick everything (now),” Jochaniewicz said. “As a senior, I want to pull everything out, do everything I can. I want to try to make it as a team for state. That’s my motivation because I love these girls.”

Jochaniewicz and Weeks are three-year sectional qualifiers. Weeks advanced individually last year in all-around and uneven bars and Luptak qualified in all-around, vault and floor.

The team graduated all-arounder and sectional qualifier Riley Patnode. Shainis competed all-around at LTHS. “We’re always going to have a solid three See HUSKIES on page 38