Property transfers p. B6
October 14, 2020
Homes
Powered by the Oak Park Area Association of Realtors
LITTLE HELP? Hemingway Foundation board chairman John Berry says the birthplace museum’s revenue this summer due to the pandemic was unsustainable.
ALEX ROGALS/Staff Photographer
House museums hit hard times
Hemingway, Wright attractions saw revenue shortfalls of 80% this summer By LACEY SIKORA
W
Contributing Reporter
ith the COVID-19 pandemic hitting Illinois just as spring began, local house museums found themselves in desperate times. Typically, spring and summer are the busiest seasons for both tourists and fundraising for the Hemingway Birthplace, the Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio and Pleasant Home. This year, stay-at-home orders shuttered the house museums, and social distancing guidelines, on top of tourists wary of travel, curtailed the number of visitors who were
able to visit this summer. Decreased revenue from ticket sales has led the local organizations to get creative with their fundraising efforts. On Sept. 28, the Hemingway Foundation announced a fundraising campaign called – to make no mistake about its purpose -- “Help Us Keep the Doors Open” for the Hemingway Birthplace Museum, 339 N. Oak Park Ave. Keith Strom, the foundation’s executive director, said in a press release that the campaign is directly tied to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic during which state-mandated closures for most of the spring and summer had a severe economic impact on revenues. The Frank Lloyd Wright Trust, meanwhile, was forced to cancel its largest annual fundraiser, the Wright Plus Housewalk, this spring. In May, the trust laid off 25 percent of its workforce. Faced with steeply declining revenues from tours at the Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio, 951 Chicago Ave.,
and purchases at the gift shop, the trust sent out its annual appeal out in August, roughly two and a half months early. They also doubled their planned fundraising goal to $200,000. Tom Gull, director of development for the FLW Trust, says that generous donations from board members and others helped them in the spring, but the trust is still looking to raise roughly $160,000 by the end of the year. While both the Hemingway Foundation and the FLW Trust applied for and received some aid in the wake of pandemic, it was not enough to make up for the lost revenue. John Berry, chairman of the board of the Hemingway Foundation, said that revenue dropped close to 80 percent. “From April to August in 2019, we had revenue of $92,662,” he said. “In 2020 for that same period, it was $16,786. You can’t sustain that.” The story was the same at the Frank Lloyd Wright Home See MUSEUMS on page B4
October 14, 2020 ■ Wednesday Journal/Forest Park Review
B1
608 Lathrop Ave, River Forest Beautiful home in the heart of town. Large, light filled rooms, master with ensuite, plus a family room and deck. All within walking distance to shops, trains, and schools. 4 BR 3 BA .................................. $669,000 John Haagenson | 773-230-6995 john.haagenson@cbexchange.com
Priced to sell! 243 S. Maple Ave., Unit C, Oak Park Great value in this bright, spacious, brick townhome w/2 ensuite BD/BA. 2 rooftop decks, 1 car garage. Quarterly HOA. Great location! 2 BD 2.5 BA ................ $365,000 Sara Faust | 708-772-7910 sara.faust@cbexchange.com
Just Sold! 407 Wisconsin Ave, Unit D, Oak Park Stunning townhouse with updates throughout including a 2 car garage. Walk to town location! 2BR 2.2 BA..... $399,000 Sandi Graves | 708-752-6540 sgraves@cbexchange.com
New Price! 504 Park Ave, River Forest Spacious townhouse with over 3,000 sf located on quiet residential street. 3BD + Office, 2.2 BA ................. $499,000 Shea Kiessling | 708-710-5952 shea@cbexchange.com
Just Sold! 1210 N. Marion Street, Oak Park Updated split-level on a wide lot with 2 garages, a large family room and 2 dens. The space and light and flow will surprise you in this house. 4 BR 2.5 BA .. $525,000 Stephanie Eiger | 708-557-0779 Stephanie.eiger@cbexchange.com
1017 S. Oak Park Avenue, Oak Park Spacious Arts and Crafts bungalow with beautiful crown molding original woodwork and hardwood floors. First floor bedroom & a full bath on each level. So many possibilities! 4+1 BD 3 BA ........ $350,000 Lisa Andreoli and Meredith Conn 708-557-9546 | 708-743-6973 Teamgo2girls@gmail.com
Coming Soon! 225 S. Clinton Ave, Oak Park Center of town location. 4 Bedroom, 3 Bath .................... $739,000 Joe Langley | Cell 708-243-0330 jlangley.realtor@gmail.com
Just Sold! 435 William Street, #602, River Forest In unit w/d, balcony, plus 2 garage spaces. Centrally located! 2 BD 2BA ................................... $325,000 Patty Melgar Hooks | 708-261-2796 patty.melgarhooks@cbexchange.com
Interested in a real estate career?
Steady and Proven Professional Interest rates are amazingly low, and the market is hot. Now is the time to make your real estate wish a reality. Call for a free analysis and advice on the current market. Kirstin Gloor | 708-351-8977 Kirstin.Gloor@cbexchange.com
Under Contract! 7251 Randolph Street, Unit C3, Forest Park Walking distance to both Oak Park and Forest Park downtowns! Charming condo with an open dining/living room and a large primary bedroom. Great rooftop deck! Parking included. 2 BR 1.1 BA .. $156,900 Andrea “Bonnie” Routen | 708-544-8440 Andrea.bonnie@cbexchange.com
New Price! 1215 Linden Avenue, Oak Park Great opportunity to own this gorgeous Mediterranean-influenced home in awardwinning Mann School district. Spacious rooms including 3 bedrooms (one has a sitting area, one with a tandem) and 1 full/2 half baths. 3 BR 1.2 BA ............ $459,000 Sue Canepa 312-203-0848 suecanepahomes@gmail.com
Contact Lewis Jones
Designated Managing Broker 708-851-2223
lewis.jones@cbexchange.com
COLDWELLBANKERHOMES.COM Oak Park 114 N. Oak Park Avenue, Oak Park | 708.524.1100 The property information herein is derived from various sources that may include, but not be limited to, county records and the Multiple Listing Service, and it may include approximations. Although the information is believed to be accurate, it is not warranted and you should not rely upon it without personal verification. Real estate agents affiliated with Coldwell Banker Realty are independent contractor sales associates, not employees. ©2020 Coldwell Banker Realty. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker Realty fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act. Owned by a subsidiary of NRT LLC. Coldwell Banker and the Coldwell Banker Logo are registered service marks owned by Coldwell Banker Realty LLC.
B2 View more at OakPark.com/Real-Estate ■ October 14, 2020
Generations of Excellence since 1958
708.771.8040 • 7375 W. North Ave., River Forest DonnaAvenue Barnhisel 7375 West North Dan Bogojevich MANAGING Anne Brennan River Forest, Illinois 60305 BROKER/OWNERS Karen Byrne Calkins 708.771.8040 Kevin Tom Carraher Andy Gagliardo
Tom Poulos
1403 FRANKLIN • RIVER FOREST
Pat Cesario Joe Cibula
Don Citrano Alisa Coghill Kay Costello Maria Cullerton Julie Downey Kurt Fielder Yvonne Fiszer-Steele Ramona Fox
Laura Gancer Lisa Grimes Dan Halperin Sharon Halperin Greg Jaroszewski Vee Jaroszewski Noa Klima Jack Lattner
Iris McCormick Vince McFadden Elizabeth Moroney Colleen Navigato John Pappas Rosa Pitassi Sue Ponzio-Pappas Jenny Ruland
Laurel Saltzman Laurie Shapiro Tom Sullivan Debbie Watts George Wohlford Nancy Wohlford Randy Ernst • 773-290-0307
1527 MONROE • RIVER FOREST
1226 BELLEFORTE • OAK PARK
808 S SCOVILLE • OAK PARK
N EW LI S T I N G!
N EW LI S T I N G!
STUNNING FRENCH NORMANDY house that has been remodeled and refinished from top to bottom. New wiring, plumbing, hvac, all floors, generator, roof work, and more. Just drop in your furniture and enjoy, from the fantastic front entrance all the way to the basement. .............................................................. $1,349,000
CHARMING BRICK HOME located on a quiet Cul-De-Sac. This 4 BR, 2-½ bath home offers a spacious LR with fireplace, a family room with Walls of Glass, and a 1st-floor office. Lower Level has a Rec Room with another fireplace, workshop area, laundry room with tons of storage space. ................................................ $549,500
SUPER CHARMING light-filled home on extra-large lot. Delightful front porch, spacious foyer, formal LR & DR all with beautiful hardwood floors. Efficient galley kitchen opens to family room. Gazebo area out back surrounded by natural landscaping. Vintage barn off alley with a loft. ......................................$475,000
CITY LIVING CONVENIENCE in a charming village atmosphere. This large Cape Cod is not a drive-by. Ten large rooms with four bedrooms, four full baths, and a huge 1st-floor family room with a wet bar. Three-season room, and a kitchen with 42” oak cabinets. ..............................................................................$550,000
1147 JACKSON • RIVER FOREST OPEN SUNDAY 13
LOVELY BRICK HOME offers wonderful space with beautiful views of the spectacular lot! Original details with two story foyer and hardwood floors throughout. This elegant home is beautifully constructed and large enough to accommodate family and friends for years to come............................................................................................. $1,299,000 BEAUTIFUL, CLASSIC HOME offers everything for today’s modern living. Custom-built home has the highest quality finishes. No detail was missed. Brick and stone exterior, wrap-around porch, eleven-foot ceilings and oversized windows. LL has 2,000 feet of living area............ ........................................................................................................$1,295,000 ELEGANT CRAFTSMANSHIP can be found throughout this 5 BR French Normandy home. Sophistication is evident from the moment you walk in the door. Impressive foyer, formal LR with fireplace and built-in benches, family room, separate formal DR, updated kitchen, home office. ...................................................................................$999,000 STATELY HOME located on a picturesque River Forest block! This 5 bedroom, 3 full/2 half bath home includes four floors of living with two finished family rooms, a large study and three fireplaces. Large sundrenched rooms with elegant cove molding and windows. In-ground outdoor pool. ..................................................................................$819,000 SPLITLEVEL HOME offers newly refreshed contemporary style and wonderful space. Home offers three bedrooms, three brand new bathrooms, beautiful front entryway, vaulted ceiling family room, sunroom, game room, deck, spectacular backyard, attached two-car garage .............................................................................................. $599,000 BRING YOUR IDEAS! Brick bungalow offers a lot of potential. Centrally located, this house sits on a 75 X 157 lot. Open floor plan, outside side deck, 3 bedrooms, 3 full bathrooms, finished family room in the basement with plenty of storage. Renovate or build new. Many options available..............................................................................$539,000 CENTER ENTRANCE COLONIAL offers wonderful space! Deep lot, large deck, and original details throughout the home. Features include large living room, sunny sitting room, hardwood floors, updated kitchen, family room, full finished basement, and a two-car garage. ...........................................................................................................$440,000
OAK PARK HOMES
831 HOME • OAK PARK OPEN SUNDAY 13
GRAND SPRAWLING HOME with an abundance of interior and exterior living areas. 5 BRs, upstairs laundry, 3 full & 1 half BAs, 3 fireplaces, full basement with recreation room. Grand two story family room incorporated into an open plan kitchen. Hardwood floors throughout main level. ............................................ $787,000
RIVER FOREST HOMES
FRENCH COUNTRY ESTATE built for flexible living. Fully renovated and expanded to preserve the feel and charm of a 1946 home, with all the conveniences of modern amenities and finishes. Sits on a private, double lot. Large pool, 5 BRs w/BAs, 2nd Fl laundry, private office, finished basement. ...........................................................$1,749,950 MODERN DREAM HOME centrally located on a corner lot with fenced in yard has plenty of entertainment space! Designer touches throughout the 6 bedroom, 6 full and 1 half bath home with beautiful LR, DR and large kitchen with open floor plan to the family room. So much more to see! ...................................................................... $1,699,000 STATELY SOUTHERN COLONIAL blends old world craftsmanship with elegant modern updates ideally located. Grand foyer, elegant LR with fireplace, recently remodeled gourmet kitchen, mudroom, family room, large basement with den/office. Meticulously maintained and ready to move in. ........................................................................ $1,599,000 EXQUISITE, UPDATED HOME with luxurious finishes throughout, walk to EVERYTHING location! Four full floors of renovated space including massive, open, chef’s kitchen that opens to family room, French doors, amazing basement living space and home gym. Move in and enjoy! .................................................................................... $1,299,900
COLONIAL REVIVAL STYLE with Tudor Revival influences built in 1909. This stunning six-bedroom home displays sophistication and tasteful elegant décor. It offers wonderful space for family and entertaining with beautiful views of the spectacular oversized corner lot. ..... ........................................................................................................ $1,395,000 THREE STORY GRAND VICTORIAN on 100 x 218 lot in the heart of the Frank Lloyd Wright district. This estate features 6 Bedrooms, 2 Full baths, 3 fireplaces, many historic details including double front entry doors sourced from the Historic Pullman Estates section of Chicago. ..........................................................................................$650,000 BEAUTIFUL SIDE ENTRANCE COLONIAL with 4 BRs, 2 full & 1 half baths features a spacious center family room, cooks’ kitchen with mud room, gas fireplace, built-in shelving & art glass windows. Beautiful woodwork & hardwood floors throughout. Finished LL. Front & back heated walkway. ............................................................... $639,000 ARCHITECTURAL INTEGRITY of this 4 BR, 3BA farmhouse has been preserved whenever updates were completed. Double door entry, antique light fixture, hardwood flooring, art glass windows, natural trim work and high ceilings are found throughout this home. $625,000 RARELY AVAILABLE, “Cavalcade of Pride” award-winning home on 50 x 170 ft lot. Includes high ceilings, oak staircase, marble fireplace, separate formal dining area, spacious den/family room with stained glass and built-in bookcases, eat-in kitchen, and a large full basement with storage. ................................................................................... $599,000 TURNKEY LIVING awaits you in the 3 BR, 2 bath ranch all made up and ready to go! All new stainless steel appliances and granite counters highlight the twenty-foot long eat-in kitchen. The expansive finished lower level practically doubles the size of the living space. Two car garage ...............................................................................................$299,900 DUTCH COLONIAL with rehab already started, already gutted. Originally 2 bedrooms, but now open to new floor plan and added bedrooms and baths. Could be a flip or a great home to live in.$185,000
MELROSE PARK HOMES
WELL CARED FOR BEVERLY in great location! Features beautiful hardwood flooring in most rooms, remodeled master bath, updated kitchen, and finished basement with second kitchen for those large family parties! Freshly painted. Fenced yard. Absolute move-in condition!....................................................................................................$329,900
P R IC E R E DUC E D! GREAT MOVEIN READY HOME with 3 bedrooms and 1st Fl office. Features include a screened-in front porch with new hardwood floors, enclosed back porch that doubles as a mud room, all BRs with hardwood floors, finished basement with large living area, fenced yard, 2-1/2 car garage. ..................................$425,000
CONDOS/TOWNHOMES/2 FLATS RIVER FOREST 2BR, 2BA. Completely updated. .................$264,000 OAK PARK Two Flat ...................................................................$699,000 NEW LISTING OAK PARK 3BR, 3-1/2 BA. .........................$569,900 OAK PARK Two Flat ...................................................................$550,000 OAK PARK 3BR, 2 full/2 half BA. Move-in ready...................$425,000 NEW LISTING OAK PARK 2BR, 2BA...................................$379,000 OAK PARK 3BR, 2 full/1 half BA. Vintage beauty................. .$285,000 OAK PARK 3BR, 2 full/1 half BA. Downtown OP. ...................$257,000 NEW LISTING OAK PARK 2BR, 2BA. ..................................$249,900 OAK PARK 1BR, 1BA. Parking space included. .......................$124,500 OAK PARK 1BR, 1BA. Vintage building....................................$110,000 OAK PARK 1BR, 1BA. No stairs!...................................................$97,500 FOREST PARK 1BR, 1BA. Rare find. ..........................................$89,900 CHICAGO 2BR, 2BA. Chic, move-in ready! .............................$534,950 CHICAGO 2BR, 2BA. Vibrant Wicker Park!.............................$429,000 CHICAGO 2BR, 2BA. Secure gated lot. ....................................$209,900
Shop for homes online at GagliardoRealty.com October 14, 2020 ■ Wednesday Journal/Forest Park Review
B3
MUSEUMS
Steep revenue decline from page B1 and Studio, according to Gull. “This summer compared to last summer, we’re operating at about 20 percent of what we normally do,” he said. While tourist traffic is picking up at the Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio, Gull reports that they have reduced tour sizes from 18 guests to eight. Roughly one-third of their volunteers have not felt ready to return to lead inperson tours. Berry said that tourists from outside the Chicago area are the biggest visitors to the Hemingway Birthplace, and says the international interest in both Hemingway and Wright brings a lot of tourist dollars to the two house museums. “About 30 percent of our normal annual visitors are from outside of the USA,” Berry said. “I think those numbers are similar or higher at the Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio.” The problem is not limited to Oak Park. House museums across the country rely on foot traffic for ticket sales, and the stay-at-home orders followed by sharply diminished travel wreaked havoc on the normally busy summer tourist season. Berry points out that the for-profit Hemingway museum in Key West, Florida laid off 50 percent of its staff in August. “They do a huge amount of business with cruise ships,” Berry said. “Their revenues fell about 80 percent, like ours.” Both the Hemingway Birthplace and the Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio are members of the At Home in Chicago consortium of house museums, and Berry says that all 20 member homes saw steep declines in revenues this summer, and all of the home museums are preparing for a rough winter. Berry noted that house museums in northern climates typically see a large drop in attendance during the winter. Oak Park’s Pleasant Home, 217 Home Ave., is also a member of the consortium. Pleasant Home Foundation Presi-
Pleasant Home, 217 Home Ave., Oak Park
B4 View more at OakPark.com/Real-Estate ■ October 14, 2020
Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio, 951 Chicago Ave., Oak Park dent Raeann Spencer says that like all other homes, Pleasant Home was forced to close for a few months, but is now offering free, self-guided tours on Thursdays and expanded paid docent-led and behind-the-scenes tours by reservation. Spencer said the foundation, which operates the museum, lost revenue due to lack of tours. However, Jan Arnold, executive director of the Park District of Oak Park, which owns the property, notes the pandemic hasn’t threatened the livelihood of Pleasant Home. The upkeep and maintenance of the home are funded through the park district, not through ticket sales. Berry says the Hemingway Foundation is hoping that the
April 2021 PBS airing of a Ken Burns and Lynn Novick biopic on Hemingway will provide a big bump in interest in the birthplace. “We’ll certainly try to leverage that into a renewed interest into Hemingway in 2021,” Berry said. “With this [fundraising] campaign, we’re trying to make sure we make it 2021.” Within the first week of the campaign, the Hemingway Foundation raised roughly 20 percent of its initial $75,000
Want to donate? Gifts to the Frank Lloyd Wright Trust can be made at flwright.org/annualappeal while the Hemingway Foundation has established a GoFundMe fundraiser at is charity.gofundme.com/o/en/campaign/keep-thehemingway-birthplace-doors-open/ernesthemingwayfound
goal. Berry says Hemingway Foundation members continue to think outside the box in terms of fundraising to keep the lights on. The Michigan Hemingway Society reached out and offered to help, and Berry says the foundation is reaching out to others as well, including Hemingway scholars, friends and other Hemingway sites. “We are trying to mine these contacts,” Berry said. “We still have a lot of fishing lines out in the ocean, but we’d be very happy if someone made a large donation.” As they look ahead into fall and beyond, Berry says he can’t help but look to the past. “We’re all in this together,” he said. “We don’t have a choice but to try to work a way around this pandemic. It’s like nothing we’ve ever seen. We do have a story on our website about the 1918 flu pandemic and how that Hemingway basically sheltered in place in the center of France with Hadley.” He notes that the flu pandemic killed a lot more people, but says that for our generation, this pandemic is a new phenomenon. “It’s all new to us,” Berry said. “We’re hoping that by April, our visitor numbers will begin to come back up. The virus will determine how and when we can reopen.”
300 Linden Ave, Oak Park
1140 Schneider Ave, Oak Park
$1,290,000 | 5BR | 4BA | 1HBA
$360,000 | 2BR | 2BA | 1HBA
Magnificent grand Colonial features 4 levels of living, luxurious
Beautiful central Oak Park townhome with both bedrooms having
finishes & modern updates on a huge park-like lot!
their own en suite bath!
300 N Taylor Ave, Oak Park
913 Wenonah Ave, Oak Park
$420,000 | 4BR | 1BA | 1HBA
$516,000 | 1 - 3BR unit | 1 - 2BR unit
Impressive Prairie inspired classic Oak Park home with so much
Fantastic solid brick two-flat in south Oak Park the perfect
original architectural detail!
investment on a great lot!
Steve Scheuring Realtor and Local Expert, Oak Park & River Forest steve.scheuring@compass.com 708.369.8043
101 N Euclid Ave, #30, Oak Park $540,000 | 3BR | 3BA | 1HBA Bright and beautiful TRUE 3-bedroom townhouse in the heart of downtown Oak Park!
Steve Scheuring is a Real Estate broker affiliated with Compass. Compass is a licensed Real Estate broker with a principal office in Chicago, IL and abides by all applicable Equal Housing Opportunity laws. All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only, is compiled from sources deemed reliable but is subject to errors, omissions, and changes without notice. All measurements and square footages are approximate. This is not intended to solicit property already listed. Nothing herein shall be construed as legal, accounting or other professional advice outside the realm of Real Estate brokerage. 1643 North Milwaukee Avenue, Chicago, IL 60647.
October 14, 2020 â– Wednesday Journal/Forest Park Review
B5
P R O P E R T Y
River Forest home sells for $1,540,000
The following property transfers were reported by the Cook County Recorder of Deeds for July 2020. Where addresses appear incomplete, for instance where a unit number appears missing, that information was not provided by the recorder of deeds.
T R A N S F E R S FOREST PARK ADDRESS
PRICE
SELLER
BUYER
7541 Brown Ave
$280,000.00
Rogers Daniel S
Shirlee Jermaine
1023 Marengo Ave
$465,000.00
1023 Marengo Llc
Schassen Michael Ryan
831 Belvidere Ave
$365,000.00
Kernkamp Daniel J
Fontana Melissa L
917 Harlem Ave
$107,000.00
Silveri Patricia
Chicago Title Land Trust Co Trust
7401 Roosevelt Rd
$250,000.00
Jmcc Rlty Grp Llc
Terra Building Inc
1337 Elgin Ave
$250,000.00
Safranski Eric T
Wiegmann Aaron Lee
7314 Randolph St
$170,000.00
Dioguardi Joan J
Tejada Raul
7416 Warren St
$345,000.00
Metzger Scott Tr
Lejcar Phillip D
905 Lathrop Ave
$407,000.00
Laurentiu Claudiu L
Zaliagiris Joseph
315 Burkhardt Ct
$305,000.00
Modimby Llc
Tiburtini Marissa A
251 Marengo Ave
$205,000.00
Schaaf Mary Jane Tr
Rummel Carol
1312 Circle Ave
$155,000.00
Griffin Leon Ind Extr
Figueroa Victor B
315 Des Plaines Ave
$105,000.00
Concannon Paul V
Barrett Dennis W
923 Ferdinand Ave
$252,000.00
Feczko Nicholas G
Castillo Daniel
820 Elgin Ave
Unknown
Intercounty Judicial Sales Corp
Deutsche Bk Natl Trust Co Tr
OAK PARK ADDRESS
1023 Park Ave., River Forest
ADDRESS
PRICE
RIVER FOREST SELLER
BUYER
1423 Lathrop Ave
$618,000.00
West William L Tr
Kluskens David L
1535 Park Ave
$240,000.00
Ayyagari Swati
Johnsen Steven R
121 Thatcher Ave
$745,000.00
Menacho Julie A
Kranz Kevin
314 Franklin Ave
$585,000.00
Mcdermott Michael
Metzger Scott Tr
1410 N Harlem Ave
$190,000.00
Carr Vincent John
Zayed Noor
407 Ashland Ave
$250,000.00
Chicago Title Land Trust
Christensen Mark E
7501 North Ave
$8,050,000.00
7501 W N Ave Llc
Rf Grocery Llc
414 Clinton Pl
$150,000.00
Coolidge Roberta A Tr
Jorge Joseph
45 Park Ave
$180,000.00
Ferro Mario J
Harris Phoenix N
742 Bonnie Brae Pl
$1,000,000.00
1023 Park Ave
$1,540,000.00 Moore Noel G
Lefevour John T
B6 View more at OakPark.com/Real-Estate â– October 14, 2020
Ruhaak Martin Chreonis Andrea M
PRICE
SELLER
BUYER
708 Wesley Ave
$335,000.00
Costello Nora
Mcdermott Michael
634 Clarence Ave
$350,000.00
Moroney Colleen
Broy Keecia
1226 N Marion St 1126 S Highland Ave 623 N Elmwood Ave 728 S Scoville Ave 302 N Oak Park Ave 839 N Lombard Ave 1019 Division St 819 Clarence Ave 722 Erie St 726 N Grove Ave 723 Hayes Ave 223 S Maple Ave 1180 S Elmwood Ave 607 Wesley Ave 228 N Oak Park Ave 936 Wesley Ave 542 N Marion St 808 S Lyman Ave 1201 N Kenilworth Ave 641 Clarence Ave 1047 N Harlem Ave 1025 Randolph St 121 Le Moyne Pky 704 S Humphrey Ave 1132 Fair Oaks Ave 412 N Scoville Ave 1130 Ontario St 222 N Grove Ave 808 Wisconsin Ave 708 S East Ave 900 N Harvey Ave 105 S Euclid Ave 600 N Lombard Ave 901 Mapleton Ave 1204 Linden Ave 941 Linden Ave
$440,000.00
Rojas David A
Mcdonald Ryan
$435,000.00
Tseng Ben J Tr
Hill Patrick A
$886,000.00
Ritten Christopher P
Hollinder Thomas E
$659,000.00
Thomas Peter A
Hull Daniel P Tr
$242,000.00
Smith Bradon J
$304,500.00
Gold Susan J
Maliff William C Lynch Dylan John Facklis Derek L Thomas Matthew Smith Michelle Chapman Johne P Santos Jude Anthony Macis Candice A Wiley Sean M Cummings Jonathan C Proskey Lindsay Therese Gluck Paul Gros Sebastien A Ych Lisa C Chicago Title Land Trust Co Tr Homan Patrick Mirabile Phillip Meyer Sandra Vadakara Tom P Gough Kateland M Haigh Michael J Hall Christopher M Thomas Krysti Ohara Mary Kathleen Tr Cernak Michael G Chang Eva Unell Amy Rebecca Danahey Amy O Connor Nicole Gardner Joshua James Lenz Mary Catherine Tr Ball Caroline
$351,000.00
Mandrew Phllip
$394,000.00
Riley Michael E
$180,000.00
Butts Grace E
$370,000.00
Reistroffer Douglas Extr
$405,000.00
Cohen Kevin B
$220,000.00
Heberlein Joel M
$241,500.00
Olugenga Kathlee N
$275,000.00
Martin John William
$153,000.00
Vance William S
$436,000.00
Linne T Marc
$520,000.00 $865,000.00
Schlichting Donna L Hernandez Odin Staszak Edward L
$425,000.00
Boyer Christopher R
$125,000.00
Lako Enea
$170,000.00
Lisuzzo Peter G Tr
$375,000.00
Jtpv Corp
$625,000.00
$375,000.00
Ih2 Prop Il Lp
$595,000.00
Blair Kenneth Morris
$995,000.00
Milburn James
$168,000.00 $465,000.00
Triveri James Jr Teclaw Nancy K Tr Kallish Adam
$580,000.00
Ashton Harry Earl Iv
$605,000.00
$484,000.00
Jbc111 Pholdings Llc Whitaker Ronald David Davis Stanley L Jr Tr Collins Kimberly Jacobs Randal B
$515,000.00
Landis Robert Bruce
$210,000.00
$350,000.00
$390,000.00 $412,500.00
P R O P E R T Y
T R A N S F E R S
OAK PARK ADDRESS
PRICE
SELLER
BUYER
1025 Randolph St 830 Forest Ave 329 S Oak Park Ave 926 N Ridgeland Ave 837 N Marion St 720 Forest Ave 532 Carpenter Ave 318 S Cuyler Ave 839 S Taylor Ave 622 Wisconsin Ave 619 S East Ave 621 S Humphrey Ave 931 N Marion St 720 N Austin Blvd 949 Fair Oaks Ave 831 Hayes Ave 104 N Oak Park Ave 232 N Scoville Ave 843 S Highland Ave 1017 N Harlem Ave 950 Washington Blvd 216 N Oak Park Ave 1101 N Harvey Ave 521 South Blvd 929 S Oak Park Ave
$129,000.00
Lund Erik James Extr
$150,000.00
Totzke Lynn R Tr
$239,000.00
Siddiqi Lamia Farha Tatum James Mark O Neal Jared P Tenuta James-Paul Caesar Swanson James Dean Joshua Thomas Gustin Katherine C Kopelow Daniel Avi Beyer Jonathan A Herrington Gary Brandt Morton Samuel H Sellers Joseph Thompson John Wesley Iii Martin Erick Roque Dario Lopez-Hisjos Nicolas Mcmahon Jason Leibowitz Alex K De Santiago Martha Mason Patrick A Winters Daniel C Wesen Lauren A Walker Samuel H Us Bk Maddela Edward A
$62,000.00
Bongiorno Martha Chicago Title Land Trust CoTr May Ryan P Walton Robert Uribe Marcella King Stanley P Tr Reaves Walter B Giovingo Linda L Tr Kitson John S Ryan Thomas P Frank Rebecca S Tr Spearman James Sobti Vikram Kallen Jason S Tr Schalin Daniel
$782,000.00
Buchbinder Paul W
$260,000.00
Woywod Kathryn A
$387,000.00
Vil Nichayette
$277,500.00
$550,000.00 $740,000.00
$279,000.00 $380,000.00 $422,500.00 $435,000.00
$441,000.00 $444,000.00
$680,000.00 $75,000.00 $900,000.00 $452,000.00
$100,000.00
Quilici Alexandra
$160,000.00
Flinn Karina
$460,000.00
Hull Daniel P Tr
Unknown
Judicial Sales Corp
Unknown
Federal Home Loan Mtg Corp
JUST LISTED
Leaves Fall, Interest Rates Fall It’s time to Fall in Love with a New Home! Oak Park | NEW LISTING
This 5 BR, 2.1 BA Tudor has only had 2 owners. Refinished hardwood floors, Master Suite, the huge walk-up attic offers another 804 sq. ft. Beautifully maintained & much character throughout ...................... $850,000
Oak Park
UNDER CONTRACT IN 5 DAYS
Victorian home with 4 BRs, 2.1 BAs, with open floor plan and a 31’ x 12’ Family Room right off the kitchen! The exact floor plan you’ve been waiting for! Master suite, hardwood floors and more! .............................. $625,000
Oak Park | NEW PRICE
Gorgeous 4+ BR, 2.1 BA, center entrance Colonial with charm galore: hardwood floors, natural woodwork, Palladian windows, stained glass, woodburning fireplace & large 2nd floor office. ....................................... $648,000
River Forest
Luxurious 2BR, 2 BA condo, with a Den, gas fireplace, hardwood floors, and new carpeting, eat-in kitchen, and 2 garage parking spaces. 2165 sq. ft., and full size laundry room in the unit!.............................. $525,000
Elmwood Park | NEW LISTING 4 BR, 1.1 BA Cape Cod in River Forest Manor! Spotless home with hardwood floors, natural fireplace, fresh decor, eat-in kitchen, and lower level Family Room with 4th Bedroom. Lovely yard, too. ................... $377,500
River Forest | NEW PRICE 7310 HOLLY, RIVER FOREST $899,000 :: 6 BED :: 5.5+ BATH Close to train.
JUST LISTED
Custom-built 4 BR, 3.1 BA. Island Kitchen opens right up to the 21’ x 20’ Family Rm with fireplace, bar sink & refrigerator. Incredible master bath with heated floors, steam shower & jacuzzi! ............................ $775,000
Oak Park | SOLD IN 1 DAY
2-Flat in the heart of town! Both units have 1 BR and an office, hardwood floors, dining rooms and separate furnaces. Parking for 3 cars, storage and shared laundry in the basement.......................................... $390,000
Call me at 708.218.8102 for a Market Evaluation of your home. I’m here for you, for every move you make! 1119 OAK PARK, OAK PARK $723,500 :: 4 BED :: 2.5 BATH Designer kitchen. Awesome yard.
KATHY & TONY IWERSEN 708.772.8040 708.772.8041 tonyiwersen@atproperties.com
October 14, 2020 ■ Wednesday Journal/Forest Park Review
B7
GLEN ELLYN
5 BR, 2.2 BA ..................................$729,000
OAK PARK
OAK PARK
Michael O’Neill & Bridget O’Neill 708-267-8995 or 312-337-0200
1 BR, 1 BA .....................................$145,000
2 BR, 1 BA .....................................$199,000
OAK PARK
OAK PARK
4 BR, 2.1 BA ..................................$723,500
3 BR, 1.1 BA ..................................$449,000 Catherine Simon Vobornik • 312-501-4048
Catherine Simon Vobornik • 312-501-4048
3 BR, 3.1 BA ..................................$489,000 Liz O’Connell • 708-772-0337
Catherine Simon Vobornik • 312-501-4048
OAK PARK
2 BR, 2 BA .....................................$259,000 Catherine Simon Vobornik • 312-501-4048
OAK PARK
3 BR, 1.1 BA ..................................$439,000 Catherine Simon Vobornik • 312-501-4048
OAK PARK
Kathy & Tony Iwersen 708-772-8040 or 708-772-8041
House Hunting? Find a Realtor. Find a home.
OAK PARK The iconic Bishops Hall on an estate-sized lot in the heart of the Frank Lloyd Wright Historic District.
4 BR, 4.2 BA ............................................................................................................... $1,550,000 Greer Haseman • 708-606-8896
Get a list of Open Houses.
RIVER FOREST Light and bright 3 story farmhouse. This house offers multiple home office options including a beautiful library.
6 BR, 4.1 BA .................................................................................................................. $849,000 Greer Haseman • 708-606-8896
Every week, every day in
RIVER FOREST
3 BR, 2.1 BA ..................................$494,000 Greer Haseman • 708-606-8896
RIVER FOREST
6 BR, 5.1 BA ..................................$899,000 Kathy & Tony Iwersen 708-772-8040 or 708-772-8041
Want to see your listings in Distinctive Properties? Contact Marc Stopeck at 708.613.3330 or marc@oakpark.com B8 View more at OakPark.com/Real-Estate ■ October 14, 2020
You depend top-selling Why test yourcan LUCK when you canon depend on top-selling Broker, Sarah O’Shea Munoz? Munoz! Broker, Sarah O’Shea UNDER Experienced,UNDER Well-Qualified Professional CONTRACT CONTRACT Responsive, Resourceful & Thorough Efficient, Empathetic & Compassionate
FOR SALE
Our Community Needs Community Journalism It’s not just about crime reports and board meetings. We also need inspiring, funny, heartwarming and, at times, heartbreaking stories about our friends, neighbors and children. Perhaps now, more than ever.
Let's build community!
Read and Support Wednesday Journal.
Work with someone who treasures you!!! 125 N. Euclid #304 Oak SOLD! Park 1 BR/ 1 BA + Bonus Space…$178,900
SOLD!
SOLD!
915 Monroe River Forest 3 BR/ 1.1 BA…$599,000
SOLD! 936 Forest - River Forest 3BR/ 2BA - $529,000
SOLD!
838 N. Elmwood - Oak Park 3 BR/ 2.1 BA - $594,900
633 Ashland River Forest 5 BR/ 3 BA & 1st Floor Family Room….$787,700
SOLD!
1227 Jackson - River Forest 4BR/ 3.1 BA - $899,000
415 Franklin #4B River Forest 2 BR/ 2 BA…$244,900
Partner with us. Donate at GrowingCommunityMedia.org
915 William SOLD! River Forest 4 BR/ 3.2 BA & 1st Floor Family Room…$1,025,000
SOLD!
7651 Monroe - Forest Park 5BR/ 2BA 2-flat - $374,977
SOLD!
1234 N. East Avenue Oak Park 2 B/ 2 BA - $374,700
SOLD!
415 Franklin #3E River Forest 4BR/ 2 BA…$310,000
SOLD!
River Forest
415 Franklin #3D & 415 Franklin #2F 3BR/ 2BA $267,000 2BR/ 2BA $269,000
Under Contract in 415 Franklin #4C 14 days!
River Forest 2 BR/ 2 BA….$239,000
314 Wisconsin #1S Oak Park 2 BR/ 1 BA…$289,900
With low interest rates, 643 Garfield #3 - Oak Park it’s a great to Buy & Sell! 2BR/time 1 BA - $134,900 Contact Sarah to plan for your home purchase or sale! Sarah O’Shea Munoz
ASP (RE), CNE, e-PRO, GRI REALTOR®
Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Chicago SOMunoz@BhhsChicago.com OSheaMunozHomes.com Growing Community Media NFP is a 501(c)3 not-for-profit organization
708.359.1570
© BHH Affiliates, LLC. An independently operated subsidiary of HomeServices of America, Inc., a Berkshire Hathaway affiliate, and a franchisee of BHH Affiliates,LLC. Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices and the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices symbol are registered service marks of HomeServices of America, Inc.® Equal Housing Opportunity.
October 14, 2020 ■ Wednesday Journal/Forest Park Review
B9
542 THATCHER AVENUE, RIVER FOREST
542THATCHER.INFO
1016 ERIE STREET, OAK PARK
1016ERIE.INFO
Exquisitely gorgeous home with stunning curb appeal, close proximity to the
Elite, award-winning two-story Victorian situated close to downtown Oak Park
Metra. This stately historic home has 4 levels of living. $1,098,000
and all the shops, restaurants and parks it has to offer.
CLAUDINE CANTU
DORENE FLIGER
•
708.848.0200
•
claudine@atproperties.com
•
708.822.2947
•
$890,000
dorenefliger@atproperties.com
1011 SOUTH BOULEVARD
555 ASHLAND AVENUE, RIVER FOREST
555ASHLANDAV.INFO
644 N OAK PARK AVENUE, OAK PARK
644NOAKPARKAVENUE.INFO
This bright 3-story farmhouse checks all the boxes! The gracious foyer, complete
A true opportunity awaits you from this beautiful, bright and sunny brick
with a fireplace, sets a welcoming tone for the entire house. $849,000
Colonial on a corner lot in a central location. $750,000
HASEMAN/CURRAN
LISA PASQUESI
•
708.606.8896
•
greer.gps@atproperties.com
•
708.848.0200
•
lisapasquesi@atproperties.com
Stop looking, start finding® atproperties.com
B10 View more at OakPark.com/Real-Estate ■ October 14, 2020
Distinction
(di stingk’ shen) noun. The act of distinguishing excellence; making a difference
Tom Carraher redefines the essence of real estate service.
SINGLE FAMILY HOMES
Sunday, October 18th
ADDRESS
OFFICE
LISTING PRICE
TIME
831 Home Ave, Oak Park. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Gagliardo Realty Associates. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$425,000. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-3 319 S. Maple Ave, Oak Park . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Baird & Warner Oak Park/River Forest. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$574,900. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12-2 732 N. Kenilworth Ave, Oak Park . . . . . . . . . . Baird & Warner Oak Park/River Forest. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$650,000. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2:30-4:30 1215 N. Grove Ave, Oak Park . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Baird & Warner Oak Park/River Forest. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$650,000. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2:30-4:30 1147 Jackson Ave, River Forest. . . . . . . . . . . . Gagliardo Realty Associates. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$787,000. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-3
It is extremely rare to find real estate professionals who set themselves apart with distinction in everything they do... ...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.
CONDOS
ADDRESS
OFFICE
LISTING PRICE
TIME
1209 N. Harlem Ave. UNIT 10, Oak Park. . . . Baird & Warner Oak Park/River Forest. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $119,000. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-3 166 N. Humphrey Ave. UNIT 1N, Oak Park. . Beyond Properties Realty Group . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $219,900. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12-2 210 S. Lombard Ave. UNIT B, Oak Park . . . . Baird & Warner Oak Park/River Forest. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$224,000. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-3 1133 Chicago Ave. UNIT 3E, Oak Park . . . . . . Baird & Warner Oak Park/River Forest. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$625,000. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12-2
Tom Carraher
This Directory brought to you by
Realistic Expectation–Proven Results
mrgloans.com
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
7375W. West NorthAve. Avenue 7375 North River Forest, Illinois River Forest 60305 708.771.8040 708.771.8040
http://tomcarraher.realtor.com
October 14, 2020 ■ Wednesday Journal/Forest Park Review
B11
WE’RE BY YOUR SIDE 940 Bonnie Brae Pl River Forest | $1,139,000 Ed Bellock
822 Jackson Ave River Forest | $999,000 Sheila Price
732 S Taylor Ave Oak Park | $679,000 Swati Saxena
154 N Euclid Ave Oak Park | $665,000 Maya Puentes
1215 N Grove Ave Oak Park | $650,000 Keller Group Chicago
1224 Columbian Ave Oak Park | $579,900 Steve Green
710 Lyman Ave Oak Park | $545,000 Patricia McGowan
320 S Maple Ave, Unit D Oak Park | $489,000 Liz O’Connell
835 N Cuyler Ave Oak Park | $474,900 Ann Keeney
1207 Rossell Ave Oak Park | $439,000 Catherine Simon-Vobornik
328 N Cuyler Ave Oak Park | $399,000 Carla Taylor
1014 Hayes Ave Oak Park | $379,000 Bobbi Eastman
522 Grove Ln Forest Park | $339,900 Swati Saxena
339 Home Ave, Unit 2F Oak Park | $315,000 Heidi Rogers
1858 Norfolk Ave Westchester | $289,900 Bill Geldes
3505 Grove Ave Berwyn | $263,999 Sandra Dita Lopez
164 N Humphrey Ave, #3S Oak Park | $249,000 Catherine Simon-Vobornik
1109 Erie St Oak Park | $249,000 Ken Van Santen
715 Washington Blvd, #2D Oak Park | $225,000 Bethanny Alexander
210 S Lombard Ave, Unit B Oak Park | $224,000 Peggy Letchos
Baird & Warner Oak Park/River Forest | 1037 Chicago Ave. Oak Park, IL 60302 | 708.697.5900 | oakpark.bairdwarner.com Source: BrokerMetrics® LLC, 1/1/2019 - 12/ 31/2019Detached and Attached only. Chicagoland PMSA
B12 View more at OakPark.com/Real-Estate ■ October 14, 2020
2
Wednesday Journal, October 14, 2020
OAKPARK.COM | RIVERFOREST.COM
S P O N S O R E D
Savor a side of sparkle at Crepas Culichi
C O N T E N T
Berwyn gem, Crepas Culichi celebrates the sweet side of life As soon as a customer takes a seat at Crepas Culichi in the delightfully decorated diminutive space, a glass of pink lemonade and chocolate dipped marshmallows magically appear on the table. What follows is a dining experience worthy of such a sweet start -- it’s time to engage your inner princess. “We are very girly Food Writer and love anything glam,” said co-owner Estefany Garcia of the business built on word of mouth and located at 2713 Ridgeland Ave. The decidedly feminine space is decked out in hues of pink, gold and Tiffany and Co. blue. Crystal chandeliers, floral arrangements and vintage dishes round out the aesthetic. The attention to detail in the space was intentional — Crepas Culichi was designed with Instagram in mind and even features a prominent photo wall for guests looking to capture the moment. Sisters and co-owners, Yency and Estefany Garcia, who are also in business with their mother, took inspiration from coffee shops and crepe stands located in their hometown in Mexico when they opened Crepas Culichi in April 2019. Quick bit of history -- French fare took root in Mexico’s culinary history when the French invaded the country in the mid 1800’s. Mexico eventually rid itself of its hostile French visitors but held onto French cooking techniques. As a result, crepes are a vibrant and authentic part of Mexican cuisine to this day. Building on history, the Garcia sisters take things a step further and bring their signature sparkle to each plate of crepes. Hand-milled flours form the base for an array of crepes served at Crepas Culichi. Special flavorings are added to the flour that result in colorful batters. Rosy-hued sweet strawberry crepes, filled with indulgent chocolate mousse
Close knit sisters, Yancy (left) and Estefany Garcia bring their love of girly things to life at Crepas Culichi
Melissa Elsmo
Cake shakes are on the menu at Crepas Culichi
Melissa Elsmo
MELISSA ELSMO
No sweet tooth? Savory poblano crepes are festive and filling.
Colorful crepes, like the sweet Strawberry shown here, are standard fare at Crepas Culichi.
Melissa Elsmo
Melissa Elsmo
and jam, are garnished with fresh raspberries, strawberry, granola, Nutella and strawberry ice cream. Elaborately decorated shakes are also standouts at Crepas Culichi. A glitter-garnished churro shake or whipped-cream topped cake shake are sure to make any day feel like a special occasion. If you are looking for something savory, turn your attention to the satisfying poblano crepe. Filled with chicken, peppers, corn and cheese, the plate is both filling and festive. Even the chilaquiles at Crepas Culichi come with pink bread
and heart shaped ham. The restaurant, open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, takes coffee service seriously at any hour of the day. “We have always been coffee lovers and want every cup we serve to be worth savoring,” said Yancy Garcia. “We also wanted a space where girls could come for brunch with their friends.” The Garcia sisters are currently in the process of expanding into the space next door and hope to open a second location in a year. They credit the success of their woman-powered business to their close relationship and ability to work
through conflict. Their shared principles, morals and dedication to hard work makes them fearless in the face of a challenge. “In the United States everyone is in a rush. In Mexico people take time to enjoy a coffee and talk with friends,” said Yancy. “Crepas Culichi is a place to slow down and value the small things in life.” From décor to food, Crepas Culichi has a distinct point of view and brings confident and smile-inducing fare to Ridgeland Avenue. Just don’t forget your tiara!
October 14, 2020 ■ Wednesday Journal/Forest Park Review
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14
Wednesday Journal, September 16, 2020
OAKPARK.COM | RIVERFOREST.COM
S P O N S O R E D
C O N T E N T
Cafe Cubano serves nostalgia in every dish
Honoring a culinary legacy is on the menu at the North Ave. eatery
7426 W North Ave., Elmwood Park, IL 60707 Mon-Thu: 11am - 9pm • Fri-Sat: 11am - 10pm • Sun: 12 - 9pm
Call 708-456-6100 to make a reservation.
MELISSA ELSMO Food Writer
For 20 years owners of Café Cubano, Mayra and Javier Fernandez Jr., have been honoring Javier Fernandez Sr. by bringing authentic Cuban fare to North Ave. in Elmwood Park. The restaurant, at 7426 W. North Ave., uses nostalgia and comfort as key ingredients in every dish pushed out of their kitchen. Mayra and Javier Jr. learned everything about largebatch cooking from Fernandez Sr. who served as a cook in the Cuban army. He was a master of high-volume cooking and used his
Café Cubano co-owners, Mayra and Javier Hernandez Jr.
Melissa Elsmo
vast experience to set up the family run restaurant for success. Fernandez cooked in the Café Cubano kitchens until 2009 and the restaurant relies on his recipes to this day. “He was here cooking until the day he died,” said Mayra of her beloved father-inlaw. “He loved food, especially Oxtail Stew. That’s why we were serve it today. And God forbid we run out; customers love it!” Dishes like Rabo Encendido, oxtails braised with tomato and sweet peppers, are made in 35-pound batches when the weather begins to turn colder. Lechon, a seasoned roast pork served with Cuban style rice and beans called arrzo congri, is another autum-
We ARE LIVE ONLINE! Your Table is READY For sponsorships or advertising
call lourdes at 708-613-3330 lourdes@oakpark.com Served fresh by
The Tapa Combo at Café Cubano features two papa rellenas, two empanadas, three ham and cheese croquetas, tostones rellenos and yuca frita.
Melissa Elsmo
B14 View more at OakPark.com/Real-Estate ■ October 14, 2020
Wednesday Journal, September 16, 2020
OAKPARK.COM | RIVERFOREST.COM
S P O N S O R E D
C O N T E N T
Cuban lechon with arrzo congri and boiled yuca with garlic.
donnygs.com
Melissa Elsmo
Book your Holiday Parties at Donny G’s! Corporate Events Private Parties Holiday Parties Birthday Parties Christenings Showers Rehearsal Dinners Funeral Luncheons Offsite Catering
The Ropa Vieja Jibarito is the only fusion item on Café Cubano’s menu
Melissa Elsmo
nal favorite at Café Cubano. If Mexican food is spicy, Cuban food is milder, but no less complex. That less intense flavor is what attracts people to Cuban food according to Mayra. “People love our food because it is very authentic,” said Mayra. “There is no fusion here. We serve straight up Cuban food. Well, except the jibarito.” The jibarito, created by a friend of the Fernandez family, is a Chicago creation with Puerto Rican roots. Pressed and fried plantains stand in for bread in this unusual sandwich traditionally filled with meat and garnished with mayonnaise, lettuce, tomato and American Cheese. To give the jibarito a decidedly Cuban flair, the restaurant offers a ropa vieja jibarito. Ropa vieja, a braised beef and vegetable dish, is among the national dishes of Cuba. “For Cubans our food reminds them of home or the food their grandma used to feed them,” said Mayra. “For non-Cubans our food is often new and unexpected, but also comforting.” The Fernandez family is trying to stay safe
15
A sampling of appetizers including tostones rellenos—picadillo filled plantains.
Melissa Elsmo
and survive the pandemic. After remodeling the interior to add a counter area and new flooring, the restaurant opened for indoor dining two weeks ago. A robust catering business and family dinner specials support Café Cubano through these unusual times. “The Village of Elmwood Park has been phenomenal. They are always offering help and support,” said Mayra. “The support of the community helps us stay busy. There is nothing like everyday sales to keep you afloat.”
7308 W. North Ave. Elmwood Park, IL 60707
Call 708-456-3644 to book your event! October 14, 2020 ■ Wednesday Journal/Forest Park Review
B15
presents
A Wednesday Journal & A Tribe Called Aging Production
wabi sabi F I L M F E S T I V A L
Our Covid-19 free gift to the community - watch it free on ZOOM in your own home
Appreciating the beauty of impermanence, a quarterly Film Series encouraging everyone to embrace and respect our aging population and the transformation of our society.
Here
Awhile
Friday, October 16 • 10am In this sweet and beautiful film, Anna returns home to Portland to reconnect with her estranged brother after 15 years apart and what feels like a lifetime of guilt. Under the guise of reconnecting, Anna needs her brother’s support to make an important life decision that puts a new strain on their recently repaired relationship. Terminally ill Anna has returned in order to use the Oregon death with dignity law. By spending time with her grown brother, his girlfriend, her own life partner and a quirky neighbor, Anna and the group form a bond that strengthens their relationships more than she could have ever expected. In each of their own ways, they learn to celebrate life, love and maximize the time that they have together. JOINING US FOR POST-FILM Q+A/DISCUSSION IS DIRECTOR/CO-WRITER TIM TRUE AND CO-WRITER CSABA MERA.
Signature Sponsors
Non Profit Patron Sponsors
Oak Park Township/River Forest Township
Learn more and register at: wabi-sabi-here-awhile.eventbrite.com B16 View more at OakPark.com/Real-Estate ■ October 14, 2020