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THE REGIONAL NEWS Named best small weekly in Illinois five times by the Illinois Press Association

Thursday, February 8, 2018

Serving Palos, Orland and Worth townships and neighboring communities

77th Year, NO. 6 • 2 Sections

PALOS HEIGHTS

Fire consumes classroom at Navajo Heights School No one injured in early morning blaze

By Anthony Caciopo Regional News Editor

Fire broke out Monday morning in a 5th grade classroom at Navajo Heights School, destroying the room and its contents but causing no injuries to students or staff.

Navajo, at 12401 S. Oak Park Ave. in Palos Heights, had not

yet opened for the day when the fire occurred. Flames were spotted through a window by John Meier, the first-shift custodian, who was clearing snow outside the building. He called 911.

“Everything (the emergency equipment) worked perfectly—the sensor in the classroom, the alarm, the strobe lights, the notification

to the fire department—but John certainly helped by calling,” said Dr. Dawn Green, School District 128 superintendent. “Plus, he was there to let everyone in, to point to exactly where it was, in sub-zero wind-chill temperatures, I might add.”

The blaze was reported at approximately 6:40 a.m. It was struck out in about 30 minutes, according to Chief Tim Sarhage of

the Palos Heights Fire Protection District.

The fire was confined to a single classroom but the 5th grade wing of the school where the classroom is located suffered smoke damage, said Sarhage in a media report.

The origin of the fire is under investigation.

In the destroyed classroom, the loss included furniture, books, an overhead projector, iPads and oth-

er electronic devices, said the superintendent.

Navajo School will be closed until at least early next week, she said. Navajo students are being accommodated at other schools in the district.

“Starting at 9 a.m. tomorrow, they’re going to be going at it, hard,” Green said late Tuesday afternoon about the repair crews.

“From Wednesday until when-

ever it takes,” she said. “If it’s not Monday (when the building can be occupied again) it’s OK because what I know is that we respond quite well in emergency situations—our students, our staff, our parents.

“I’ve emphasized over and over again, to our insurance company, to two different restoration companies we’ve talked to, that See FIRE, Page 3

ORLAND PARK

Board weighs options to rehab athletic fields

By Dermot Connolly Staff Writer

Photos by Anthony Caciopo

Above: Katie Kelly tastes one of 23 soups that were part of the Orland Township Souper Bowl Challenge. Below: Ruth Korkus stirs her organic Italian chicken sausage soup, her personal recipe.

Game on! ‘Souper’ Bowl kicks off

By Anthony Caciopo Regional News Editor

If the Philadelphia Eagles and New England Patriots were on the minds of any of the 200+ people who packed the Activity Center at Orland Township headquarters Saturday, it didn’t show.

Something else was cookin’ instead.

The township’s inaugural “Souper” Bowl Challenge kicked off—pun definitely intended—at 2 p.m. as soup chefs and soup lovers took the field to compete, judge and of course, taste which recipes would bring home the trophies.

“It’s a great crowd and a great cause,” said Joe Snaidauf, Orland Township public relations and community outreach coordinator as he took a break from the bustle of the room and the DJ music at the event. “It’s a cold Saturday afternoon and what better way to appreciate

soup more than a day like this.”

Twenty-three cooks, about half from local food establishments and half private individuals from the greater Orland area, whipped up their best batches of signature soups in an effort to score major points with judges.

“It’s really great,” said Katie Kelly of Tinley Park as she enjoyed a sample. “It’s nice to get a wide range of soups and have a taste of everything.”

Just as visitors began to flow into the room, Ruth Korkus of Orland Park was busy tending to her piping hot batch of organic Italian chicken sausage soup.

“It’s made up,” she said with a smile. “I don’t have a recipe, only in my head.

“One day, I was looking at a bunch of See SOUPER BOWL, Page 2

PetSmart suspends Animal Welfare League adoptions Mayor, trustee meet with AWL representatives

By Dermot Connolly Staff Writer

Allegations of poor treatment of animals, and an outbreak of dog flu at the Animal Welfare League in Chicago Ridge, has led to at least one national pet store chain suspending the adoption program it had with the shelter.

The outbreak of dog flu in January had already led to the Animal Welfare League suspending its adoption program for dogs and cats, and that has been extended to other animals in the shelter as well. As part of the adoption program that PetSmart had with AWL, some cats available for adoption through the shelter had

been housed at PetSmart locations in the Chicago area. But they have all been brought back to the shelter at 10305 Southwest Hwy. Animal rights activists, and former AWL volunteers and employees who have held several protests outside the shelter since the adoption program was suspended, claim that the flu outbreak was caused or worsened by management and poor care

of the animals over many years.

Numerous photos allegedly taken at the site, showing dogs housed in unclean conditions in the facility have been circulating online. The conditions shown in the photos is graphic.

As part of the adoption program that PetSmart had with AWL, some animals up for adoption See PETSMART, Page 3

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Village staff and the Orland Park Parks and Recreation Committee discussed at a meeting on Monday ways to rehab sports fields at the John Humphrey Complex, while limiting the disruption to the teams that use the fields now.

When the issue first came before the Village Board’s Parks and Recreation Committee in December, village officials explained that $600,000 had been set aside in the 2018 budget to make needed improvements to four main baseball and softball diamonds in the John Humphrey Complex at 14825 West Avenue, plus several smaller diamonds used by young players.

But the original plan was roundly criticized at the meetings by leaders of the Orland Park Pioneers football teams, Orland Youth Association and other organizations that use football fields alongside the diamonds because they would be forced to move.

The Pioneer organization, in particular, with its 180 football players and 114 cheerleaders, rejected the original offer to move permanently to Schussler Park, at 14609 Poplar Road, asserting that even with $30,000 in improvements, that site is not suitable.

Village board members agreed with that assessment, and asked village staff to bring alternate solutions to the Feb. 5 meeting. Assistant Village Manager John Keating outlined a few other options that were part of a proposal that village staff received from Kreshmore Group, a locally owned consulting group familiar with the sports teams affected.

Keating told the three-member committee led by Trustee Dan Calandriello that the Kreshmore Group proposed a $30,000 feasibility study that would look at other ways to make the needed field improvements in 2019 with the least amount of disruption.

“They will bill us hourly, not to exceed that amount,” he noted.

The first option, referred to as 1a, would keep the same basic layout of the four baseball and softball diamonds, and an adjacent football field. Work would begin in October or November this year, and Pioneer and the other football programs

would relocate to Sandburg High School facilities for practice and games for 2019. The baseball and softball teams would play their home games at Centennial Park for that year.

Pointing out the pros of the plan, Keating said all the teams could return to John Humphrey in 2020, and turning the park into a “premiere baseball/softball facility” would lead to increased revenue from more regional tournaments.

Doing all the work at once would also be a cost-savings. The disadvantages would be the cost of underground drainage needed between the fields, and the risk of damage to the newly improved baseball and softball fields caused by use of the adjoining football fields.

Keating said Option 1b, aimed at protecting the diamonds, would be to replace the main football field used for games with a smaller 80yard field for flag football only.

Football practices would also rotate between the Humphrey Complex and fields at the adjacent High Point School and Orland Junior High, giving the Humphrey fields time to recover.

Another choice, referred to as Option 2, would be more involved and costly. It would include elimination of two of the four main diamonds, improving the others, and building a multi-purpose artificial turf game field that could be used for football, lacrosse and soccer, as well as baseball and softball practice.

The current scoreboard and lighting would have to be relocated, but all the teams could still return in 2020, with some restrictions on practices on the grass fields.

“My recommendation would be to have the multi-purpose turf field,” said Trustee Patricia Gira.

“We have increased numbers for lacrosse and soccer,” she pointed out. “I know there is an increase in flag football, (while participation in tackle football is dropping).”

The next step in the process will be for the full village board to consider the feasibility study, and all the options available.

“I think the consultant’s report is very valuable,” said Trustee Michael Carroll, the third member of the Parks and Recreation Committee.

“I don’t think any teams are going to be moved this year,” he said.

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Visit us on the web at www.theregionalnews.com • email: TheRegional@comcast.net • To advertise, call 708-448-4000

2 Thursday, February 8, 2018

The Regional News

POLICE BLOTTER: PALOS PARK DUI Lloyd DJ Barnes, 33, of Worth, was charged with driving under the influence of alcohol following a traffic stop at 2:30 a.m. Jan. 28, at Southwest Highway and Route 83. Police said he failed field sobriety tests and registered .122 blood-alcohol content on a breath test. He was also cited for two counts of improper lane usage.

He is due in court on March 21.

Driving without insurance Danielle Krall, 30, of Chicago Heights, was charged with driving without insurance following a traffic stop at 7:54 p.m. Jan. 31, at Route 83 and 119th Street. Police said she was also cited for driving a car with expired registration and possession of drug paraphernalia.

They said a marijuana pipe and grinder were found in the car. She is due in court on March 21.

Suspended license Latasha A. Shelton. 39, of Lockport, was charged with driving with a suspended license following a traffic stop at 10:01 a.m. Jan 29, in the 12300 block of South Forest Glen Boulevard. Police said she was also cited for driving without brake lights. She is due in court on March 21.

Aggravated speeding Sultan Mohammed Saleh, 19, of

Joshua Olvera, 33, of Chicago, was issued a local adjudication ticket for possession of cannabis following a traffic stop at 9:36 p.m. Jan. 28, in the 13100 block of South Mill Drive East. Police said he was a passenger in the vehicle, and was carrying between five and eight grams of cannabis. The driver of the vehicle, a 25-year-old woman, was given warning tickets about an obstructed windshield and improper lane usage. Olvera is due at a hearing in Palos Park Village Hall on March 3, Brandon D. Patterson, 25, of Chicago, was issued a local ordinance ticket for possession of cannabis following a traffic stop at 8:08 p.m. Jan. 27, in the 13000 block of South LaGrange Road.

Police said a cigar wrapper filled with six grams of marijuana was found in the car, and an open bottle of bourbon. He was also cited for illegal transportation of alcohol. Court information was not available.

POLICE BLOTTER: ORLAND PARK DUI William F. Mildice, 60, of Tinley Park, was charged with driving under the influence of alcohol following a two-car traffic accident at 4:23 p.m. Dec. 21, in the 9400 block of Sunrise Lane. Police said this was his third DUI arrest, and he refused to take field sobriety tests or submit a breath sample.

He was also cited for failure to yield at an intersection, and driving without insurance. He was taken to Silver Cross Hospital after being charged, and was due in court on Feb. 1.

Michael S. Hamilton, 47, of Orland Park, was charged with driving under the influence of alcohol at 6:50 p.m. Dec. 23, in the parking lot of Marcus Orland Park Cinema, 16350 S. LaGrange Road. Police said a motorist reported seeing his vehicle strike a parked car, and then drive to another parking space, where he fell out of his car. Police found him unconscious lying next to his vehicle. Police said an open can of beer and a bottle of vodka were found in the car. He was also cited for driving without insurance, and taken to hospital for observation.

He was due in court on Feb. 1.

Hit-and-run Frank D. Labudzik, 64, of Orland Park, was charged with leaving the scene of an accident following a hit-and-run accident in the 15600 block of Sunset Ridge Drive at 10:06 p.m. Jan. 10. Police said Labudzik’s vehicle struck a parked car, and his front bumper and license plate were found nearby. When he was apprehended at his home, two blocks away, he was also cited for driving without

insurance. He is due in court on March 13.

Theft

Sandra M. Cuevas, 50, of Orland Park, was charged with aggravated speeding following a traffic stop at 10:15 a.m. Feb. 1, in the 14000 block of South 84th Avenue. Police said she is due in court on March 15.

Hit-and-run Michael Birnbaum, 35, of Alsip, was charged with leaving the scene of an accident at 10:38 p.m. Jan. 31, at the PowerMart gas station, 6400 W. 127th St. Police said witnesses reported seeing the driver flee the scene after striking one of the gas pumps, and he was tracked down using license plate information provided by the clerk.

He is due in court on March 15.

Tristan Ruzich, 22, of Palos Hills, was charged with leaving the scene of an accident after several parked cars were struck in a parking lot in the 11900 block of South Harlem Avenue at 11:51 a.m. Friday. Police said she was arrested at her home. She is due in court on Feb. 28.

DUI Lacey Fagan, 20, of Palos Heights, was charged with driving under the influence of alcohol and drugs at 2:45 a.m. Friday, in the 7400 block of West 131st Street.

Police said she was also cited for speeding, driving without insur-

The crowded Palos Heights City Council meeting room was perhaps the safest place to be for many miles around Tuesday evening as more than a dozen police officers and department brass, along with families, gathered to watch two of their own.

Gerard Wodka received a promotion to the rank of sergeant.

Kevin Pomper was sworn in as a police officer.

Wodka and Pomper took their respective oaths from City Clerk Thomas Kantas. Wodka was kissed by his wife, Meredith, after she attached the sergeant’s badge to his uniform.

Both men were given a round of applause.

Police-related news continued when Mayor Bob Straz presented a Lifesaving Award to Community Service Officer Jeffrey Heffernan, who responded in January to a call of a choking infant. A photo of Heffernan and additional details of his meritorious actions will be published in the Feb. 15 edition of The Regional News.

The City Council approved a motion made to approve the reappointment of Trustee George Jasinski to the Police Pension Board for a term of two years, expiring on Feb. 4, 2020.

The recent total remodeling of the City Council meeting room provided for a modernization of TV coverage by Palos Heights Channel 4. No longer do camera operators with bulky equipment occupy a platform in the meeting room during live coverage. Instead, discrete cameras mounted on a wall are operated remotely with joysticks in the nearby control room.

Alan Fulkerson, 3rd Ward al-

Ashley M. Ellis, 24, of Hazel Crest, was charged with felony theft at Toys R Us in Orland Square Mall at 8:22 p.m. Dec. 27. They said staff discovered that Ellis had created 14 false merchandise returns, using employee IDs left in the lost and found, between Dec. 6 and Dec. 27, totaling $1,957.91. Police said she was also charged with felony retail theft, for allegedly “under-ringing” several customers she knew.

This was done by voiding sales, allowing customers to leave with merchandise they had not paid for, Continued from Page 1 totaling $2,231.92. Court information was not available. recipes and I said, ‘I love spinach, I love tomatoes and the broth and Suspended license sausage’ so I just tried to put it Pierre A. Augustin, 19, of Chi- together into something. cago, was charged with driving “There was some trial and erwith a suspended license following ror,” she admits. Korkus said she a traffic stop at 4:58 p.m. Jan. 5, has been making her signature in the 9100 block of West 151st soup for at least three years.

Her good friend, Joyce BakotStreet. Police said he was also cited for using an electronic communi- ic, didn’t have her own soup to cation device while driving, not cook but instead was at the event wearing a seatbelt, and possession to help.

“I’m here to support Ruth and of drug paraphernalia because two marijuana pipes were found in the the township events,” she said car. He is due in court on Feb. 13. as she poured popcorn into the hood of a sweatshirt she was Driving without insurance wearing backward. Her unique Adrian Ortiz, 25, of Chicago, fashion style put the hood—and was charged with driving without the munchables—just below chin insurance following a traffic stop level where she had easy access to at 9:10 p.m. Jan. 3, in the 13900 the popcorn as she walked, talked block of South LaGrange Road. or helped out at the table.

As DJ music blared in the room Police said he was also cited for and tasters moved from station to driving with only one headlight, station, Dawn and Brandon Murand issued a municipal violation phy stood near the middle of the for possession of cannabis after 1.5 floor, each with a sample cup of grams of it was found in the car. soup in hand.

He was due in court on Feb. 1.

“We’re supporting my mom

derman and chairperson of the Ad Hoc Cable TV Committee, delivered Channel 4’s 2017 Activity Report.

“During 2017, Channel 4 undertook several capital improvement projects. One exciting aspect of the project was the installation of two remote-controlled cameras in the newly renovated Council Chamber,” he said.

“In addition, as part of the improvement project, the Channel 4 recording studio was equipped with additional lighting and a new camera to replace a unit that was failing due to hours of usage beyond its expected lifecycle.”

Fulkerson said Channel 4 had originated and produced more than 200 programs during 2017 “with a focus on transparency in local government, community awareness and economic development.”

The production volume, he explained, “is creating a high demand on existing equipment and, in the future, will require the Cable Committee to consider the purchase of additional, highend broadcast equipment.”

Fulkerson noted two additional volunteers were added to the Channel 4 operation last year, for a total of five.

“All volunteers participated in program production and accumulated over 1,000 combined hours of volunteer activities to produce the programming offered to our viewing public,” he said.

“We continue to welcome anyone in the Channel 4 viewing area who is interested in becoming a member of the volunteer staff,” Fulkerson said. “Volunteer time may qualify for community service credit for high school students over the age of 16 who are interested in learning more about television programming and production.”

More information about oppor-

Photos by Anthony Caciopo

Gerard Wodka of the Palos Heights Police Department, newly promoted to sergeant, kisses his wife, Meredith moments after his official swearing-in.

Meredith pinned the sergeant’s badge to her husband’s uniform as part of the ceremony. Looking on are Ald. Donald Bylut (right) and Ald. Jeffrey Key, both of the 1st Ward.

Palos Heights’ newest police officer, Kevin Pomper, is sworn in by City Clerk Thomas Kantas at the start of the City Council meeting.

tunities at Channel 4 TV can be obtained by calling (708) 4803013 or emailing PHTVChannel4@gmail.com

The Palos Heights City Council meets at 7 p.m. on the first and third Tuesdays of the month at City Hall, 7607 W. College Drive.

Souper Bowl

POLICE BLOTTER: PALOS HEIGHTS Aggravated speeding

Police news takes center stage at Palos Hts. council meeting

Worth, was charged with aggravated speeding following a traffic stop at 12:24 p.m. Jan. 27. In the 12700 block of Southwest Highway. Police said he was driving 70 mph in a 40 mph, and in the wrong the lane. He was also cited for improper lane usage and is due in court on March 21.

By Anthony Caciopo Regional News Editor Cannabis possession

ance and improper lane usage. She is due in court on Feb. 28.

Melvin D. Miles, 53, of Chicago, was charged with driving under the influence of alcohol at 9:43 p.m. Friday, in the 12300 block of South Harlem Avenue.

Police said he failed field sobriety tests. He was also cited for driving without insurance and improper lane usage. He is due in court on March 23.

Alonso Carrera, 23, of Berwyn, was charged with driving under the influence of alcohol following a traffic stop at 5:15 a.m. Sunday, in the 12900 block of South Harlem Avenue. Police said he failed field sobriety tests and was also cited for improper lane usage. He is due in court on March 23.

Criminal damage Raymond Menard, 29, of Joliet, was charged with criminal damage to property following an incident in the 12900 block of Sycamore Lane, Palos Heights, at 10:38 a.m.

Jan. 30. Police said he broke a rear window on a vehicle after an argument, and was arrested at his home later that day. He is due in court on March 15.

Vehicular burglary Construction tools were reported stolen out of an unlocked car that was parked overnight between midnight and 9 a.m. Friday on Spyglass Circle.

and brother, owners of Blissful Banana Café (in Orland Park),” said Dawn. “We’ve sampled 4-5 soups so far and we’re going to try everybody’s.”

Township Supervisor Paul O’Grady talked about how the Souper Bowl Challenge originated.

“My staff and I were trying to come up with a creative idea to bring back the idea of helping the food pantry and shelters in the area,” he said.

“After the holidays, there’s a little bit of a letdown. People tend to give around the holidays. What can we do after the first of the year to remind people that there are those in our area who are in need?”

O’Grady and township staffers, including Nora Tuzmin, Lisa Gordon, Mary Hastings and Lindsay Trost, launched the Souper Bowl Challenge.

“We’re going to help the Catholic Charities homeless shelter/ soup kitchen in Joliet as well as the domestic violence center (in the southwest suburbs),” he said.

“Just a perfect idea.”

As members of the Bulldogs Cheer Team from Tinley Park performed a “halftime” routine on the crowded floor space, Katie Kelly was finishing her taste sample.

“This is a great first impression,” she said of the inaugural event. “It’s a great place to start and it can only go up from here.”

Orland Township released the following game stats: 23 cooks:

Photos by Anthony Caciopo

Left: Joyce Bakotic uses her hood to hold Super Bowl-type snacks at the Souper Bowl Challenge. Right: Bill Hurley (right) prepares to serve Hurley’s Hearty Chicken and Dumpling Soup to fellow soup cook Bill Brady, who brought his beef barley soup to the competition.

(12) culinary MVPs (restaurants) (3) public service pro bowlers (local government employees) (5) senior hall of famers (seniors 55+ years of age) (3) rookies (citizens age 12-54)

Winners: Rookie quarter: The “Golden Ladle” or Judge’s Trophy: Kate Hastings (lasagna soup) People’s Choice: Kate Hastings (lasagna soup) Best Decorated: Kate Hastings Senior Hall of Famer quarter: The “Golden Ladle” or Judge’s Trophy: Donna McIntyre (cream

of cauliflower soup) People’s Choice: Fran DuFrenne (chicken noodle soup) Best Decorated: Fran DuFrenne Public Service Pro Bowler quarter: The “Golden Ladle” or Judge’s Trophy: Renee Crews, President, Orland Park Area Chamber of Commerce (The Bohemian Grandmother” – chicken and dumpling soup) People’s Choice: Marie Ryan, President, Park District Board of Commissioners in Tinley Park (Italian soup) Best Decorated: Bill Brady, Tinley Park trustee

Culinary MVPs The “Golden Ladle” or Judge’s Trophy: Doc’s Smokehouse (smoked chicken and sausage gumbo) People’s Choice: Chuy’s Tex Mex (chicken tortilla soup) Best Decorated: Chuy’s Tex Mex The three awards are defined: The Judge’s Trophy or “Golden Ladle Award”, which is the winner as chosen by our celebrity judges The People’s Choice Award, chosen by the soup tasting guests The Best Decorated Award, also chosen by our celebrity judges, for the best decorated table or station

The Regional News

Thursday, February 8, 2018

3

Cook County GOP Chairman endorses Rauner for re-election Cook County Republican Party Chairman Sean M. Morrison is personally endorsing Gov. Bruce Rauner for re-election, citing Rauner’s “tireless efforts to rebuild the Republican Party in Illinois and fight one-party rule in Springfield” as the two central reasons for the endorsement.

Morrison said he “believes, without a doubt, that Rauner gives Illinois Republicans the best chance to retain the governor’s

office and win vital additional seats in the Illinois House of Representatives and State Senate.

“We must continue to work Morrison to end the unfair political advantage of one-party rule of government,” said Morrison. “We need equal represen-

tation. When one party controls the political policies for 30-plus years, we end up with the current financial catastrophe Illinois finds itself in.”

Under Governor Rauner’s leadership, the commissioner noted, Illinois Republicans have won back five house seats in the last election cycle which eliminated a one-party super majority—“a much needed step forward for Illinois Republicans,” he said.

Morrison said that Rauner has also made substantial economic investments in the Illinois Republican Party and has been instrumental in rebuilding a political infrastructure for Republicans to compete across the entire state.

Moreover, the 2018 general election will be critical to the longterm future of Illinois as the next governor will play a critical role in the upcoming remap of the General Assembly districts, he said.

“Let’s be honest, we have a terrible exodus occurring in Illinois and it’s because government has been failing the residents of our great state for too long,” said Morrison. “Our state government cannot continue on its current course if we’re to break this awful trend and improve the quality of life for all of our residents.”

For multiple consecutive years, he said, Illinois has lost more residents than any other state in the

country.

“Bruce Rauner has shown a fierce commitment to fighting against the entrenched bureaucracy and special interests that have controlled Springfield for decades, said Morrison. “Gov. Rauner is the best-equipped person to continue to lead this fight for reform and that is why I fully endorse his candidacy for re-election.”

Fire

Continued from Page 1

Looking for some real page-turners

Photos by Anthony Caciopo

Book lovers browsed tables, carts and boxes of reading material Saturday at the twice-yearly Friends of the Palos Heights Library book sale. Bill Poore, president of the Friends, reported the sale took in $4,000, “the second-best total for the Winter Book Sale in the past 10 years.” Poore thanked all the volunteers “who spent countless hours sorting, setting up and staffing the event.” Poore also thanked the library patrons who contributed the books.

Unsold books and periodicals, said Poore, will be given to an organization that sorts and distributes the materials to charitable organizations. The next Friends of the Library Book Sale will be held Aug. 3 to 8. Clockwise from top: Jean Freeman, her son Max, 5 and daughter Penny, 3, all of Palos Heights, staked out a spot on the floor at the Palos Heights Library looking for children’s books. The kids selected books about drawing and books about dinosaurs.

John and Tammie Jones of Oak Lawn dropped by the book sale held by the Friends of the Palos Heights Library.

Palos Heights resident Mari Sobieski searches for books for her granddaughter and cooking books for her daughter.

PetSmart

Continued from Page 1 through the shelter, mainly cats, had been housed at PetSmart locations in the Chicago area. But over the past week, they have been brought back to the shelter.

A manager at the PetSmart store at Chicago Ridge Commons referred all questions to the corporate headquarters in Phoenix, Ariz.

There are also PetSmart locations in Evergreen Park and Burbank.

PetSmart officials issued a statement saying, “Through our PetSmart Charities In-store Adoption Program, we work with local animal welfare organizations to help homeless pets get adopted. The Animal Welfare League (AWL) was part of the PetSmart Charities’ In-Store Adoption Program for 19 years. After learning of allegations of animal mistreatment, PetSmart Charities immediately suspended the organization from our adoption program and launched an internal investigation.

“We are currently waiting for the results of the investigation. Out of respect for all of our adoption partners, we do not discuss the details of our partnerships, including the reasons for suspending a relationship.”

There have been reports that Petco also has suspended its relationship with AWL, but that could not be confirmed. On Monday, a manager at the Petco at 6220 W. 95th St., in Oak Lawn, said that store had not been working with Animal Welfare League.

“I read online that we had suspended our relationship with them, but I checked with corporate and they weren’t aware of it,” said the woman.

Chicago Ridge Mayor Chuck Tokar and Trustee Ed Kowalski had a lengthy meeting with AWL executive director Linda Estrada and several other representatives

Photo by Dermot Connolly

Pet stores have suspended adoption programs they have had with the Animal Welfare League at 10305 Southwest Highway in Chicago Ridge, following an outbreak of dog flu and accusations of mistreatment of animals.

on Monday. Some of the activists rallying against Estrada were invited to speak at the Chicago Ridge Village Board meeting on Tuesday.

“We had an hour-and-a-half meeting with four Animal Welfare League representatives,” said Tokar, explaining that in addition to Estrada, the group included two members of the AWL board, and an attorney for the shelter.

The mayor said Kowalski, who planned to give an update on the situation at the village board meeting on Tuesday, also “touched base” with five representatives of the activists opposing the leadership of the shelter.

“Some of their ideas did seem very reasonable,” said Tokar.

“I’m pretty happy about the meeting with the AWL officials.

Together we came up with some plans for moving forward. They are looking forward to having a meeting with at least some of the

activists.”

For the time being, the suspension of animal adoptions and surrenders is continuing at the Animal Welfare League, where signs were still posted Tuesday on the doors notifying the public that the adoption and drop-off of animals was still suspended. In addition to dogs and cats, rabbits, other small mammals and birds are often available for adoption there, but a receptionist said Tuesday that they are all under the suspension now. The veterinarian clinic onsite remains open.

The receptionist, who did not want to give her name, said the suspension is expected to continue at least through the end of this week.

“We’re waiting for cultures to come back, to see what we’re dealing with,” she said. “It is dog flu, but just to be on the safe side, we have expanded the suspension to include all animals.”

CORRECTION In the Feb. 1, 2018 edition of The Regional News, the husband of Patricia Bailey, Michael, was incorrectly named.

The Regional regrets the error.

yes, we want to be back in the building as quickly as we can, but before that we want it to be safe. No smell of smoke or any of that.”

Green said she got the call about the fire at 7 a.m. from Officer Kevin Apostal of the Palos Heights Police Department.

“I missed the call; he left me a message,” Green said. “I called the police department, they affirmed that information and I began calling my principal at Navajo and the other principals.”

District 128 has four schools: Navajo Heights, Independence Junior High, Chippewa Elementary and Indian Hill. Displaced Navajo 5th grade students are currently being accommodated at Independence. Navajo 4th graders are attending Chippewa.

“I was shocked at the level of damage,” said the superintendent.

“I’ve never been that close to fire damage before.”

Green said she spent the entire day Monday at the school, most of the time with staff in the fire department’s mobile command vehicle.

“We’re not 100 percent sure, but it looks like some fluky thing,” she said about the origin of the fire.

“We know where but we don’t know why. We’re still waiting for that. I’ve been assured by our insurance company and the investigators that there’s been no foul play.”

Green said that shifting the Navajo students to Independence and Chippewa required “some moving around. Some teachers (at the receiving schools) had to give up their rooms. They held their classes in the common areas, in the library.

“We’ve made it work,” she said. “We’re using the music

Photos courtesy of the Police Heights Police Department

The fire-gutted classroom and the damaged hallway at Navajo Heights School, where a blaze broke out Monday morning before students and staff arrived.

room, we’re using the art room.

There’s been a lot of juggling. Our staff is fantastic. Not only those who are being impacted, the 4th and 5th grade teachers, but also those who welcomed them with open arms.”

“The Navajo principal, Lynn Adamonis, has been phenomenal,” said Green. “She’s handled it great, just how positive she’s been. Our teachers, our administrators, different people who took over and who all helped out tremendously.

“Our students, our staff and our parents have just been fantastic,” said Green. “I’ve not heard one negative thing about an inconvenience here, a difficulty there.”

The superintendent also praised the Parent-Faulty Association.

“Whatever the kids and the teachers need, come to us and we’ll get it for them,” Green said she was told by the PFA. “The number of parents who

have emailed me, offering money for books, money for iPads—it’s a huge reminder of how supportive and compassionate and caring the kind of community we have, willing to help out however they can,” she said. “It’s amazing.”

4 Thursday, February 8, 2018

Don’t be so quick to count out Rauner A little perspective may be in order. Lots of political junkies, media types, etc. went ga-ga after a recent Chicago Tribune editorial board faceoff between Republican Gov. Bruce Rauner and State Rep. Jeanne Ives.

Within 24 hours, 28,000 Facebook users had viewed the first segment of the debate. Several more likely watched the forum on the Tribune’s website, although that video feed started late and had some streaming problems. Both video feeds conked out a couple of times, so just 7,500 watched Part Two on Facebook, while 6,000 watched Part Three by the following morning.

It’s important to remember that average voters pay almost infinitely less attention to state politics as they do national politics, when half the country typically tunes in to debates. Now 28,000 Facebook views sounds pretty respectable; and it is, but about 820,000 people voted in the 2014 Republican gubernatorial primary. And Facebook has come under fire in recent months for counting a video as being “viewed” after a mere three seconds.

That’s not to say Rep. Ives didn’t help herself with her almost complete thumping of Gov. Rauner. She most certainly did. She won that debate hands down, and Rauner’s supporters have to be flabbergasted at the way he handled himself.

Personally, I was most amused at how the governor kept telling Ives to stop interrupting him because it was rude, and then in almost the next breath he’d interrupt her when she said negative things about him.

The same man who has spent the past three years in office painting everyone around him as corrupt and/or incompetent finally got publicly called out to his face. I’d bet good money that a sizable chunk of those Facebook viewers were Democrats who tuned in to see if Ives could whup the man. They likely weren’t disappointed.

The editorial board meeting received a bunch of very intense media coverage, and Ives’ supporters will certainly be talking up her performance in person and on social media. There will be a multiplier effect.

Two days after their joint appearance, I gave a speech to about 75 people who were in Springfield for a state legislative conference. Just by dint of being at that conference, those folks demonstrated that they were interested in state government.

I asked them who had watched the debate. Just two people raised their hands. I asked who had read or seen news coverage of the debate. Only about 10 people raised their hands.

Remember, these folks were in Springfield for a legislative conference. Their interest in state stuff is far greater than that of the average person in Illinois.

It’s entirely possible, though, that Ives’ performance could help prime the pump to bring in more cash from small and large donors.

And speaking of money, Rep. Ives reported receiving $500,000 from former Rauner supporter Dick Uihlein last week. By the end of the week, the Ives campaign said it would start running two different TV ads.

One of Ives’ new ads is a real doozy, featuring various people “thanking” Gov. Rauner for things like “paying for my abortions” and also has a man dressed as a woman saying, “Thank you for signing legislation that lets me use the girls’ bathroom.”

As I write this, it’s unclear if that explosive ad will air; but if it does, it will certainly get noticed.

A week of Chicago broadcast TV ads costs about $660,000, and Illinois has a ton of other media markets, from Rockford all the way down to the Kentucky border.

It’s not yet known whether Uihlein will give Ives any additional money. Ives ended 2017 with $404,000 in the bank and, including Uihlein’s check, has reported raising another $619,000 in January. So, she has some money, but it won’t last long if she wants to go big.

The last public poll in this race showed that 68 percent of likely Republican primary voters had never even heard of Jeanne Ives. Gov. Rauner was leading Ives by 45 points in that survey and he is refusing to ever debate her again. So, it’s gonna take a lot more than a few thousand Facebook views, a day of positive earned media coverage and a million bucks to put Rep. Ives over the top. A lot more.

I’m not saying it can’t happen. Weirder stuff has most certainly happened in politics. I’m just saying people should take a breath here and see how this all plays out before making any sort of predictions.

OPINION

The Regional News

RICH MILLER

Rich Miller also publishes Capitol Fax, a daily political newsletter, and CapitolFax.com.

Pritzker, Brannigan and the ‘politics’ of apologies Back in 1998, J.B. Pritzker was hoping to be elected congressman in one of Illinois’ most important “Jewish” districts, the 9th congressional district succeeding the venerable Rep. Sidney Yates.

Yates was ill and was retiring from office. To ingratiate himself with Jewish voters, Pritzker slammed an Arab Muslim group that was frequently criticizing Israel, the American Muslim Council. Pritzker called them “terrorists,” a falsehood that drew much support from the racist, anti-Arab news media in Illinois.

Pritzker lost, and the inspiring and progressive Jan Schakowsky was elected. She continues to represent that district.

In the race for governor, Pritzker is being challenged by Chris Kennedy.

Unlike in 1998, Arab American and Muslim voters have become more and more influential in deciding elections in Illinois. Politicians have been reaching out for their support, being more mindful of the emotions that often drive the nasty name-calling between pro-Israel extremists and pro-Palestinian extremists. There are extremists on both sides, but there are more moderates who support peace and who are willing to compromise on both sides, too. They are constituents that Schakowsky represents, by the way.

One of the leading Arab American organizations, the Arab American Democratic Club, reached out to both Kennedy and Pritzker. Kennedy responded enthusiastically but Pritzker refused to meet with them, organizing another group of Arabs and Muslims to secure their support.

Pritzker’s apology came in the form of a statement from Jordan AbuDayyeh to an online publication called “Capitol Fax” and was not issued publicly. Pritzker met with some leaders of the Arab American

With absolutely no regard for solid facts or evidence from other states, lawmakers are set to legalize and tax marijuana. They are actually willing to put our children’s future at great risk for an insignificant amount of revenue. In Colorado, pot brings in 0.08 percent of their annual budget. Have we really sunk this low?

Recreational marijuana has affected Owned and operated by Southwest Regional Publishing Co. every part of society in states that have Mark Hornung, Chief Operating Officer legalized it.

The increase in adolescent and teen use The Business Side The News Side is staggering. In Colorado, it’s the number Donna Brown, Sales Director Anthony Caciopo, Editor Monica Cotter, Finance Director Dermot Connolly, Reporter one problem in schools. Medical research Debbie Perrewe, Classified Manager Jeff Vorva, Sports Editor has found that youth who use marijuana Mike Russell, Production Director Lauren Ziemann, Art Director regularly risk losing eight IQ points or Bonnie Hesik, Pre-press Manager Chuck Ingwersen, Designer more.

In states with recreational marijuana, Southwest Regional Publishing employers are having difficulty find12243 S. Harlem Ave. ing employees who aren’t high. Traffic Palos Heights, IL 60463 fatalities have doubled. Homeless populaPhone: (708) 448-4000 tions have skyrocketed. Marijuana-related Fax: (708) 448-4012 hospitalizations and calls to poison control Website: www.theregionalnews.com centers have escalated through the roof. email: TheRegional@comcast.net Will this be Illinois’ future?

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and Muslim community, including many who are part of the highly publicized protests against Palos Township Trustee Sharon Brannigan.

Brannigan got into trouble with these Arabs and Muslims who dug up postings she made on her personal Facebook page and her Palos Township Trustee page about the need to enforce immigration laws.

In her social media postings (now all deleted), she questioned what she claimed is a growing number of Muslim children enrolled in schools who lack documentation. During a visit to the Middle East by President and First Lady Melania Trump, Brannigan posted “(I) am particularly proud that our women are not wearing the headscarves. We American women are represented with dignity.”

Brannigan apologized for those and similar postings three separate times, but the activists refused to accept her apologies.

Pritzker’s quiet, “silent” apology was accepted without hesitation by many of the same Arab Americans who are criticizing Brannigan.

Why? Well, it’s all about politics. Brannigan is a Republican trustee in the powerful, wildly influential and Palos Township board. Pritzker is a Democrat running for the obscure, little influential position of Illinois Governor.

READERS WRITE Avoiding a dangerous ‘pot’ hole

Subscription rates: Local, delivered by mail, $49 a year in advance. Out-of-State, $58 a year. Single copies, $1. Postmaster: Send address changes to THE REGIONAL NEWS, 12243 S. Harlem Ave., Palos Heights, IL 60463 and additional post offices.

RAY HANANIA

I’m being sarcastic, of course. The only reason anyone cares about Palos Township, other than the thousands of people who benefit from its medical services, property tax services, and food pantry, is because Palos Township is the home of Cook County Board Commissioner and Township Committeeman Sean Morrison who almost singlehandedly forced the County board to revoke the oppressive one cent tax on sweetened drinks and soda pop.

County Board President Toni Preckwinkle is very angry with Morrison. She has singled him out for political attacks.

Preckwinkle is also close to many of the people involved in the attacks against Brannigan.

I’m Arab but I am also American. A proud American. I served during the Vietnam War. I pay my taxes. And, I support many progressive and forward-thinking elected officials, mostly Democrats but some Republicans, too.

Party affiliation shouldn’t be the only reason why we support someone. I support elected officials who respect my community. Because if you can respect Arab Americans, then you truly believe in diversity and fairness, and you stand against racism.

Sharon Brannigan apologized three times. I accept it. And I would accept Pritzker’s apology, too, if he did it publicly rather than quietly behind closed doors to a small handful of friends.

That says a lot.

Ray Hanania is an award-winning columnist, author and former Chicago City Hall reporter. Email him at rghanania@ gmail.com.

entire state in November, voters will be asked whether marijuana should be legal.

If these referendums pass, lawmakers will be emboldened and Illinois’ future and the future of our children will go up in smoke.

Kathy Valente Director of Operations Illinois Family Institute Tinley Park

Rebuild our depleted military The Budget Control Act of 2011 necessitated budget cuts for the Defense Department, which had a huge negative effect on the readiness of our military.

I quote from Alan Dowd’s article in the February 2018 issue of The American Legion Magazine: “In 2011, the Air Force had 333,370 active duty airmen. By 2017, it had fallen to 310,000. In 2013, 31 squadrons stood down. In 2014, 500 planes were to be eliminated. Just 12 percent of America’s aging bomber fleet will be able to penetrate and survive enemy air defenses.”

Alan Dowd continued: “In 2011, the Army’s active-duty end strength was 566,000; by 2016, it had fallen to 476,000. Only 25 percent of the Army’s combat aviation brigades are ready to deploy. Of the Army’s 58 brigade combat teams, only three could be called upon to fight tonight.

“Before sequestration, the Marine Corps fielded 202,100 active-duty personnel; by the end of 2016 there were only 184,000 Marines. By the end of 2016, only 41 percent of Marine aircraft were able to fly.

“Today’s Navy has only 277 active deployable ships. According to former CNO Adm. Jonathan Greenert, we need a Navy of 450 ships. Fifty-three percent of Navy aircraft cannot fly. “ We need to fund the Defense Department with adequate budgets, probably on the order of $700 billion to $750 billion per year to rebuild our military and meet our national security requirements. President Trump is on board with the funding needs.

Donald Moskowitz Londonderry, N.H.

Letters Policy The Regional News encourages letters to the editor. Local content is strongly suggested and will be given first consideration. Letters must be signed and the name of the writer will be published. Include your telephone number for verification purposes. Limit letters to no more than 350 words. We reserve the right to edit letters.

E-mail letters to: theregional@comcast.net

BUSINESS

The Regional News

FINANCIAL FOCUS

Thursday, February 8, 2018

5

Consider financial gifts for all your valentines Valentine’s Day is almost here — and it’s a pretty big business. In fact, U.S. consumers spent about $18 billion on their valentines in 2017, according to the National Retail Federation. Of course, recipients certainly appreciate flowers, candy, jewelry and so on, but this year, consider going beyond the traditional favorites to give your loved ones something more long-lasting — a financial gift.

And, while you’re doing so, why not also go beyond the traditional definition of a “valentine”?

After all, not all that $18 billion went to spouses or significant others. A sizable amount also went to non-romantic connections, including children, parents, friends, teachers — even pets. So, in the spirit of ecumenical Valentine’s Day gift-giving, here are some suggestions for financial gifts for your loved ones: • For spouse or significant other – One valuable gift to your spouse or significant other might be an IRA contribution. While you can’t directly contribute to someone else’s IRA, you can certainly write a check to that person for that purpose. This gift is particularly valuable because many people have trouble coming up with the maximum annual IRA contribution, which, in 2018, is $5,500, or $6,500 for individuals 50 and older. As an alternative to an IRA contribution, you could

Matthew Van Howe Edward Jones

give shares of a stock issued by a company whose products or services are enjoyed by your spouse or significant other.

• For your children – It’s never too soon to start saving for college for your children. Fortunately, you have a few attractive college-funding vehicles available, one of which is the 529 Savings Plan.

You can generally invest in the plan offered by any state, even if you don’t live there. If you do invest in your own state’s plan, you might receive a tax incentive, which could include a deduction, match or credit. Plus, all withdrawals from 529 Savings Plans will be free from federal income taxes and, in most cases, state income taxes as well, as long as the money is used for qualified college or graduate school expenses of the beneficiary you’ve named. (If a withdrawal is taken from a 529 Savings Plan but not used for a qualified expense, the portion of the withdrawal representing earnings is subject to ordinary income tax and a 10% federal penalty.)

• For your parents – You can probably find a number of thought-

ful and valuable financial gifts for your parents. You could, for example, offer to pay a month’s worth of their premiums for their auto or health insurance. Even if they are on Medicare, they may still be paying for a supplemental policy, so your gift may well be appreciated. But you might want to go beyond helping them with just a single component of their financial situation and instead provide them with assistance for their “big picture.” To do so, you could arrange a visit with a trusted financial professional, assuming your parents aren’t already using one. This person could look at all issues, including investments, retirement accounts, long-term care and estate-related financial strategies, and then make appropriate recommendations and even referrals to other professionals.

Everyone likes the hearts, flowers and sweets of Valentine’s Day. Nonetheless, give some thought to making financial gifts — they can make a difference in your loved ones’ lives long after the chocolates are eaten and the roses have faded.

Palos Area Chamber recognizes achievers The Palos Area Chamber of Commerce held its annual dinner Jan. 26. Local leaders were recognized and awarded. In the photo above, Jeff Prestinario (left) of Presto Marketing, Inc. and Mel Diab (right) of Running for Kicks were awarded the Eugene Simpson Award for Outstanding Community Leadership for their work on the Southwest Half Marathon. They are pictured with Chamber President Barb Bergamo of CNB Bank and Trust.

The McCord Gallery and Cultural Center in Palos Park received the Eugene Simpson Award for Outstanding Civic Improvement for the completion of the Anderson Annex for the Arts. Nancy Mitchell, Co-Chair of the Capital Campaign Committee, accepted the award. She is also pictured with Chamber President Barb Bergamo.

Tom and Kara Mintle (not pictured) from Schmaedeke Funeral Home were given the Eugene Simpson Award for Outstanding Community Leadership for their constant service to the community.

This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor.

Supplied photos

COMINGS & GOINGS

Wingstop franchise in Tinley Park closes The Tinley Park Wingstop franchise has been closed by the Illinois Department of Revenue.

The storefront at 15960 S. Harlem Ave. in the Park Center Plaza has a note on the front door that says the restaurant is temporarily closed. There also are two green business license-revoked notices from the Illinois Department of Revenue posted on the front door.

Calls to the Department of Revenue were not returned.

The Tinley site also has been removed from the Wingstop website list of locations in the Chicago area.

Calls to the location are being routed to a voice mailbox that is full.

The nearest Wingstop locations are in Matteson and Crestwood.

Wingstop is a national chain that was started in 1994 and specializes in chicken wings. It began franchising locations in 2002.

Booza closes in Palos Heights A combination ice cream parlor and juice bar has closed at 11906 S. Harlem Ave. in Palos Heights.

The owners of Booza, who had originally announced they would be closing in October, had been trying to sell the business. In October, they announced they would stay open while trying to find a buyer for the business.

The shop closed at the end of December. There was no notice that a sale had occurred.

Lolly’s opens second location Lolly’s Wine Café and Slots, a video gaming café that opened its first location in March in Bridgeview, opened a second recently at 13225 S. Cicero Ave. in Crestwood.

Owner Dan Damaschke also owns Lacy’s gaming cafes in Bridgeview and Summit.

The Crestwood cafe has five video machines, offers complimentary juices and soft drinks and sells beer and wine from Happy Vines.

Import and domestic beer is available for purchase with a different craft beer featured at each location.

On weekends, Lolly’s serves fresh pastries from Talerico-Martin Bakery in Summit.

The cafe has a 5 Star rewards program that sends players emails or texts with free cash play rewards.

The cafe is open from 7 a.m. to 2 a.m. Sunday to Thursday and from 7 a.m. to 3 a.m. on Friday and Saturday.

For information, call Lolly’s

BOB BONG at 708-926-2685.

Banquet hall celebrates 25 years Mayfield Banquets recently celebrated its 25th anniversary at 6072 S. Archer Ave. in Chicago’s Garfield Ridge community on the Southwest Side.

The business is a family affair.

Frances Gawlik is manager and co-owner with her husband Christopher. Their daughter Monica is assistant manager and oversees day-to-day activities.

Mayfield opened in 1992 and was remodeled in 2011.

“Our banquet hall is unique because we emphasize the importance of great service, reasonable prices, and, of course, delicious and fresh home-cooked food,” Frances said.

For more information, call 773284-2675 or visit www.mayfieldbanquets.com.

Countryside group rebrands as Countryside Chamber The Countryside Business Association celebrated the new year in January by rebranding itself as the Countryside Chamber of Commerce.

Carmelo Scarpace, general manager of Westfield Ford, is the new chamber president.

“The decision to rebrand from

Photo by Bob Bong

Wingstop in Tinley Park was closed by order of the Illinois Department of Revenue.

the CBA to the new CCC stemmed from the board of directors’ desire for the association to continually evolve and improve to provide members with more meaningful benefits and support,” he said in a news release. “The CCC board of directors and executive director have been working on a strategic plan to assess the organization’s past, present, and future, and to meet the needs of local businesses and the Countryside community as a whole.”

West Suburban Chamber names new president Suzi Wirtz has been named the new president and CEO of the Hodgkins-based West Suburban Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

“The board is very excited to welcome Suzi to this position.

She served as interim executive director for the majority of 2017 and, after considering several candidates, we are confident that this strategic decision will help lead the organization toward its vision for

Mortgage Rates Around the Area First Midwest Bank (as of February 5)

30-year fixed 15-year fixed 30-year fixed Jumbo

RATES APR POINTS 4.375 4.420 0 3.875 3.930 0 4.240 4.295 0

30-year fixed 15-year fixed 10-year fixed

RATES APR POINTS 4.375 4.396 0 3.990 4.027 0 3.990 4.027 0

30-year fixed 20-year fixed 15-year fixed

RATES APR POINTS 4.250 4.366 0 4.000 4.158 0 3.625 3.826 0

30-year fixed 20-year fixed 15-year fixed

RATES APR POINTS 4.5 4.585 0 4.25 4.365 0 3.875 4.010 0

United Trust Bank (as of February 5)

Prospect Savings Bank (as of February 6)

CNB Bank & Trust, N.A. (as of February 5)

All rates subject to change daily. Equal opportunity lenders.

the future,” Cindy Perkins, board chairman and owner of Little People’s Country Academy of Arts & Education, said in a release.

“Suzi very successfully kept the chamber on track last year, along with a conscientious board, staff and committees by engaging businesses, municipalities and the community at large as well as keeping a close eye on the budget and our strategic plan. We look forward to the chamber’s continued and future success under her leadership.”

Wirtz was hired in August 2016 as the chamber’s director of marketing and events, before accepting the interim position in March 2017.

Prior to joining the chamber, she was executive director for LG Celtics Soccer Club for three years, playing an instrumental part in growing the club from 10 to 36 teams, representing more than 400 families in the west suburban communities and elevating the brand to a well-known commodity.

If you see a new business in town or wonder what happened to an old favorite, drop me a line at bobbong@hotmail.com.

6 Thursday, February 8, 2018

The Regional News

DEATH NOTICES Irene A. Bandstra

Irene A. Bandstra (nee Stoll), 91, died Jan. 31.

Mrs. Bandstra was a homemaker who lived in Palos Park. She is survived by her daughters, Cheryl Deckinga and Deborah Lanenga; sister, Diane Johnson; seven grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.

Services were Monday at Colonial Chapel in Orland Park followed by interment at Chapel Hill Gardens South.

Florence H. Bulkema

Florence H. Bulkema, nee DeBoer, died Jan. 30 at 87 years of age.

Mrs. Bulkema lived in Orland Park and was a retired salesperson for Chicago Extruded Metals, where she worked for more than 30 years.

Survivors include her husband, Ralph; daughter, Cynthia Bos; son, William; brothers, John DeBoer and William DeBoer, as well as seven grandchildren.

Services were Saturday at Colonial Chapel in Orland Park. Burial took place at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery.

B. Joyce Kohn

B. Joyce Kohn (nee Coffey),

PICK OF THE LITTER

Bit of ‘gaba’ smooths cat’s vet visit

85, died December 24.

Mrs. Kohn lived in Palos Park for more than 40 years. During the mid- to late-1950s, she worked as a flight attendant/stewardess at American Airlines in Chicago.

She is survived by her husband of 60 years, Ernest H.; daughter, Carol Olszowka; four grandchildren and many nieces DVM • Prairie and nephews.

StateVet.com Services were December 29 at Moraine Valley Community Dear Readers, Church in Palos Hills. Interment Yesterday we sent out a note took place at Fairmont Willow Hills Cemetery in Willow Springs. to our email clients and thought what we had to say was worth sharing.

Maria Sue Raibley I saw my first “gaba” cat yesterMaria Sue Raibley (née Zanis), day. For some time, the veterinary 37, died Jan. 28. profession has started recommendMrs. Raibley lived in Palos Park ing giving fractious cats a little at the time of her death. She is sprinkling of gabapentin on their survived by her husband, Mark; food one hour before traveling to parents, Greg and Susan Zanis; their veterinary appointment. It is siblings, Chris Zanis, Catherine said that 37 percent of cat owners Oliver, Susie Zanis and Gregory are anxious about a vet visit and Zanis, along with many nieces 58 percent of owners believe their cat is also anxious and stressed. and nephews.

Yesterday I saw a cat from Funeral service was held MonHickory Hills who hasn’t been day at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Interment fol- to a vet in many years. The cat freaked out, got aggressive, was lowed at Orland Memorial Park. hard to impossible to work with Arrangements were entrusted to and worried the owner that a vet Thornridge Funeral Home, Orland or his technician will get injured.

Park.

Most cat bites get infected.

When we get bit here by a dog, we wash the wound and watch it. When we get bit by a cat, we wash the wound and immediately begin a short course of antibiotics. a.m. and 7 p.m.

We no longer wait until we see the During the rest of the Lenten swollen hand and the red streaks season, Thursday communion ser- streaming up our arms. vices will meet at 11 a.m. (a lunch Jane had come to the clinic a after) and 7 p.m. Feb. 22, and couple of days ago and picked March 1, 8, 15 and 22, under the up the magic gaba powder and theme: “Prayers of the Passion.” sprinkled a little on Bob’s morning The evening Lent services will breakfast. In the exam room, we take place in Duehr Memorial placed the cat carrier on the exam Chapel.

JOHN FLEMING

HOUSES OF WORSHIP Lenten services set at Christ Lutheran Three Communion services with Imposition of Ashes are set for Wednesday, Feb. 14 at Christ Lutheran Church, 14700 S. 94th Ave., Orland Park.

The first will be conducted at 6:20 a.m. with others set for 11

Retired Orland firefighter Chris Smith will provide instruction and information on the importance of knowing CPR at a public event set for 9 to 11 a.m. Thursday,

Feb. 22 at the Orland Fire Protection District’s Administration Building Board Room, 9790 W. 151st Street, Orland Park.

The event is free of charge and features coffee and snacks for attendees.

Heights Police Department offers tips to protect yourself from the ‘grandparent scam’ The Palos Heights Police Department is alerting residents to an ongoing fraud that some senior citizens have fallen victim to. The con is often referred to as the “Grandparent Scam.”

Characteristically, the scam starts with an unexpected call or an email from someone who claims to be a friend or relative.

This often happens to grandparents with the caller claiming to be their grandson or granddaughter. The caller says there’s an emergency and asks for money to be sent immediately. There’s a good chance this is an imposter trying to steal your money, said police, who recommend the following tips to avoid becoming a victim of fraud. * How do these scammers choose you to contact? Sometimes they contact people randomly. They also use marketing lists, telephone listings and information from social networking sites, obituaries and other sources.

Sometimes they hack into people’s email accounts and send messages to everyone in their contact list. * How do these scammers know the names of your friends or relatives? In some cases, they don’t. For instance, the scammer may say “Hi grandma,” hoping that you actually have a grandson. If you ask, “David, is that you?” the scammer will say “Yes!” Often these crooks will call in the middle of the night and take advantage of the fact that you may not be awake enough to ask more questions and you may not want to disturb other people by calling them to confirm the information. Sometimes the scammers do know the names of your friends or relatives. They can get that information from a variety of sources. Your relatives may be mentioned in an obituary or on social media. Your email contact list may contain the names of friends and relatives. * What do these scammers usually say? They might say something like, “I’m in Canada and I’m trying to get home but my car broke down and I need money right away to get it fixed.” Or they may claim to have been mugged, to have been

Purrrr? Meet Sweetie who is looking forward to biting you.

table. He walked out and sat like a prince and was as sweet as a cup of coffee and a donut. As I told our other readers yesterday, I was stunned.

When we finished the exam, he turned and walked back into his carrier. I wonder if we will be so lucky with future GABA cats.

Stop the presses! I just finished writing this article and was about to send it to The Regional when I got called into the exam room for an appointment. Carol was there with her older dog to check a lump.

During the exam, she told me that her daughter is doing well as a second-year student in veterinary school. She said her daughter had a stressful little period recently.

Apparently, our young future colleague, who shadowed here in our clinic, was bitten by a cat during an exam at the vet school. She ignored the bite and two days lat-

Supplied photo

er ended up in the local hospital downstate on IV antibiotics for four days. Also, surgeons had to operate on her hand, something about trying to save the ligaments.

Gabapentin (Neurontin) is an anti-seizure drug that consists of a gabapentin molecule covalently bound to a lipophilic cyclohexane ring. Years ago, I had a friend who had a brain tumor and the doctor had him on gabapentin.

Gabapentin is also used for the treatment of migraine, chronic pain and bipolar disorders. We use a lot of gabapentin as adjunctive therapy for refractory or complex partial seizures in dogs.

We also employ it to treat chronic pain. I believe equine vets use it in horses when treating laminitis.

If you have a cat that is difficult to take to the vet, call your veterinarian and ask him or her about this. You will like it and your cat and veterinarian will appreciate it.

Dear Readers, Recently I was in Indiana at my son’s house. His wife likes to bake and I noticed that she had a bag of artificial sweetener on the counter that she had purchased through Amazon. It was a pound of xylitol, enough to kill most of the dogs in Northwest Indiana.

Xylitol is a sweetening substitute made popular in Europe during WWII due to the sugar shortage. Recently, new methods have been discovered that make the production of xylitol more economically feasible and the product is finding its way into our chewing gums, baked goods and even into our peanut butter.

Two sticks of xylitol-sweetened chewing gum can take down a medium-sized dog. In dogs only, xylitol causes the release of large amounts of insulin from the pancreas. The blood sugar can drop like a rock and the dog can seize and go into a coma. In many dogs that survive, liver failure ensues about two weeks later with signs of jaundice, lethargy and abnormal bleeding. Read your labels.

And just what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God. Micah 6:8

Property tax assistance available to seniors SENIOR NOTES

HEALTH BEAT Public invited to CPR event

On another note, over the past two weeks I have seen at least three dogs for spinal cord disc problems that came into the clinic already having been on aspirin for “some days now.” By doing this you preclude allowing your vet to treat your dog with more appropriate medication until the aspirin is out of the dog’s system.

in a car accident, to need money for bail or to pay customs fees to get back into the United States from another country. They may also pose as an attorney or law enforcement official contacting you on behalf of a friend or relative. No matter the story, they always want you to send money immediately. * If you realize you’ve been scammed, what can you do?

These scammers ask you to send money through services such as Western Union and MoneyGram because they can pick it up quickly, in cash. They often use phony IDs, so it’s impossible to trace them. Contact the money transfer service immediately to report the scam. If the money hasn’t been picked up yet, you can retrieve it, but if it has, it’s not like a check that you can stop. The money is gone. * How can you protect your email account from being used by scammers? Use a firewall, anti-virus and anti-spyware software. Many computers come with these features already built-in.

They are also easy to find on the internet. Keep your software updated. Don’t open attachments in emails from strangers, since they can contain programs that enable crooks to get into your computer remotely. * What else can you do to protect yourself? If you get a call or email from someone claiming to know you and asking for help, check to confirm that it’s legitimate before you send any money.

Ask some questions that would be hard for an imposter to answer correctly, such as the name of the person’s pet, for example, or the date of their mother’s birthday.

Contact the person whom they claim to be directly. If you can’t reach the person, contact someone else — a friend or relative of the person. Don’t send money unless you’re sure it’s the real person you know.

If you believe you have been victimized by one of these con-artists, or have any questions regarding this alert, contact the Palos Heights Police Department at emergency 911 and non-emergency at (708) 448-5060.

Seniors having difficulty paying their Cook County property taxes may be eligible for the Senior Citizen Exemption, Senior Freeze, or Senior Tax Deferral program.

PLOWS Council on Aging, 7808 W. College Drive, Palos Heights, can assist seniors in completing the applications. Seniors should note that the 2016 income eligibility limit increased to $65,000 for the Senior Freeze.

Each program has a unique application and the benefits of each differ. Seniors are asked to review program qualifications.

For more information, call PLOWS at (708) 361-0219.

PLOWS is the non-profit senior service agency helping seniors in all suburban Cook County towns within the townships of Palos, Lemont, Orland and Worth.

The Senior Citizen Exemption reduces the equalized assessed evaluation of an eligible residence.

The rules state that a senior citizen must apply annually. Seniors must

be 65 years of age or older for the tax year for which they are applying. For example, in 2018, tax year 2017, seniors must be born in 1952 or prior. Seniors must own the property, or have a lease or contract, which makes them responsible for the real estate taxes. The property must be the senior’s principal residence.

The Senior Freeze Exemption freezes the (EAV) equalized assessed value of their property for the year preceding the year in which they first applied and qualified for this exemption. It does not freeze tax amount. Seniors must meet all of the above requirements for Senior Citizen Exemption.

Other guidelines include having a total household income of $65,000 or less for the income tax year prior to the property tax year for which seniors are applying.

(If back-applying for property tax years prior to 2016, the household income limit is $55,000). Seniors

must have used the property as their principal place of residence for the prior year.

The Senior Citizen Tax Deferral provides tax relief for qualified senior citizens by allowing them to defer all or part of their property tax, up to $5,000.

Seniors must apply annually.

They must be 65 years of age or older by June 1 of the year applying. Total Household Income for the prior year must be $55,000 or less. Property must be owned by a senior citizen alone, or jointly with a spouse. The senior citizen must have occupied the property for at least three years. Property taxes must be paid for all prior tax years.

Seniors must provide current proof of insurance for the property. Condominium owners must also provide condominium association proof of insurance for the entire building, in addition to their individual unit coverage.

Palos Heights Seniors Club welcomes new members this month The Palos Heights Seniors Club has opened membership to residents of Palos Heights during January and February. The club meets at 1 p.m. on the 2nd and 4th Wednesday of each month throughout the year at the Palos Heights Parks & Recreation Center, 6601 W. 127th St. Membership is open to senior men and women for annual dues of $20. Meetings offer an opportunity for socializing as well as live entertainment, speakers and occasional luncheons.

In February, escorted trips will be offered on the 4th Wednesday of each month. Tickets are currently being sold for the musical, “Joseph” on Feb. 21 at Drury Lane Theatre in Oak Brook.

For more information, call Edna Craig, club president, at (708) 448-7498.

The Regional News

Thursday, February 8, 2018

7

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

Shepard cheerleaders place 10th in state

Supplied photo

The varsity cheerleaders from Shepard High School closed a season of achievement by placing 10th in the Co-Ed Division at the Illinois High School Association (IHSA) state finals at Illinois State University. The Astros advanced to the final round on Saturday after placing seventh out of 25 teams in the preliminary round on Friday. Highlights from the season included taking third at their IHSA Sectional to qualify for state and winning first place at the Andrew Invitational. Coached by Shepard graduate Nicole Staehlin, the Astros have qualified for the IHSA state finals for five consecutive years and 19 out of the last 22.

ACROSS 1. Elaborate silk garment 5. Fleet 11. Egyptian deity 12. Hundredth anniversary 16. Chew the fat 17. Doctor of Medicine 18. Large, edible game fish 19. Revitalization 24. Personal computer 25. Unfettered 26. Clumsy persons 27. Japanese classical theater 28. Part of a ship 29. Rate of movement 30. How much 31. Image taken with a camera 33. Sharp mountain ridge 34. Czech capital 38. One who treats poorly 39. By right 40. Relating to odors 43. As soon as possible 44. Israeli Olympic swimmer 45. Scored perfectly 49. Financial ratio (abbr.)

50. Unpleasant emotion 51. Sign of the zodiac 53. Promotional material 54. Your parents’ parents 56. Monetary unit 58. Farm state 59. One of Hollywood’s Bridges brothers 60. Not the plaintiff 63. “Night Train” novelist 64. Martens valued for their fur 65. Discount DOWN 1. Bone in the lower back 2. Goddess of wisdom 3. Comedic honors 4. A way to grasp 5. Apex 6. British soldier 7. Manganese 8. Indicates position

9. Decompressions in scuba diving (abbr.)

10. Soon 13. Blood type 14. Clever reply 15. One who travels by luxurious boat 20. Once more 21. Rural delivery 22. Mexican dish 23. Nigerian City 27. Is not (Span.)

29. Italy’s longest river 30. Grand __, vintage 31. Monetary unit 32. The man 33. Basics 34. Poster 35. Small remains 36. Gelatinous substance

37. A narrow opening 38. Artificial intelligence 40. Algerian coastal city 41. Canned fish 42. Milligram 44. Carrot’s partner 45. Single-celled animals 46. Movie theater 47. Necessitate 48. A state of not being used 50. Small folds of tissue 51. Gallium 52. Trauma center 54. Commands to go faster 55. New England’s football team 57. Pianoforte 61. Unit of loudness 62. Atomic number 13

(Answers on page 8)

SUDOKU Chicago Christian competes at MVCC

More than 40 Chicago Christian High School DECA (Distributive Education Club of America) students competed in a regional competition hosted by Moraine Valley Community College. A total of 31 students in 23 separate events qualified to advance to the state competition in February. The students that advanced and the events they competed in are Matt Wolterink and Trenten Riemersma (Sports and Entertainment Marketing), Danny Litton and Alex Kruzich (Hospitality Services), Casey Starostka (Human Resources Management), Dan Ferrusquia (Retail Merchandising), Bella Shan (Food Marketing), Nicholas Kadela (Sports and Entertainment Marketing), Anthony Luciano and Mark Kamp (Marketing Management), Joey Mavrogiannis and Connor McCraw (Business Law and Ethics), Rachel Sather (Business Services Marketing), Annee Mattson (Principles of Marketing), Lindsey Sather (Marketing Communications), Anna Schnyders (Apparel and Accessories Marketing), Hannah Dieck and Blake VandeKamp (Buying and Merchandising), Mark Schaaf and Matt McCarthy (Travel and Tourism), Jordan Drenth (Principles of Hospitality and Tourism), Danny Litton, Alex Kruzich and Joey Mavrogiannis (Start Up Business Plan), Jordan Dryfhout and Ellie Gallman (Business Services Operations Research), Lindsey Sather, Rachel Sather and Kara DeBlecourt (Financial Services Operations Research), Leah Kuipers and Emily Damstra (Advertising Campaign), Abby Sytsma and Leah Robinson (Fashion Merchandising Promotion Plan), Joey Mavrogiannis (Entrepreneurship Promotion Plan), Anthony Luciano, Mark Kamp, Blake VandeKamp (Advertising Campaign), Kelsey Wolterink and Maddie Dryfhout (Financial Literacy Promotion Plan), Connor McGraw (Start Up Business Plan), Matt Wolterink and Trenten Riemersma (Business Innovation Plan) and Josiah Vis, Annee Mattson and Lindsey Sather (Business Innovation Plan).

A team of students from U.S. Air Force JROTC program at Shepard High School has qualified for the regional finals of the Civilian Marksmanship Program.

Andrew Alheim, Dominic Estrada and Trevor Mikos will compete in the regional competition in Port Clinton, Ohio, over Presidents Day weekend. It’s the second year in a row that a team from Shepard advanced to the regional finals.

They will compete for a spot in the JROTC national championship Shepard High School students (from left) Andrew Alheim, Dominic Estrada and Trevor Mikos pause for a photo. in March.

STUDENT NEWS Cody Smith of Orland Park earned a spot on the dean’s list for the fall at Central College, Pella, Iowa.

The honor is awarded to fulltime students who achieve a 3.5 grade point average or higher on a 4.0 scale while taking 12 or more graded credit hours for the semester.

to graduate students or undergraduate students who take less than a full course load.

Students named to the president’s list include Mia DeMarco, Madeline Hirschfield and Casey Krzeczkowski, all of Orland Park.

Earning dean’s list honors were Kevin Casey, Curtis Fortin, Madelyn Haugh, Daniel Houlihan, William Kolpak, Kyle Struck and Leah Warchol, all of Orland Park and Trevor Piper of Palos Park.

Palos Park man earns spot on dean’s list

Univ. of Wisconsin honors for Palos Heights woman

Garrett Bartle of Palos Park was named to the fall dean’s list at Hofstra University, Hampstead, NY. Bartle achieved a grade point average of at least a 3.5 to earn a spot on the dean’s list.

Local students named to dean’s list A number of area students were named to the president’s and dean’s lists at The University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, for the fall semester.

Those named to the dean’s list earned an academic record of 3.5 or above. Students achieving president’s list honors earned a grade point average of 4.0, which is all As. The UA dean’s and president’s lists recognize full-time undergraduate students. The lists do not apply

(Answers on page 8)

SCHOOL NOTES Full-day kindergarten coming to Dist. 118

Shepard JROTC marksmen advance to regional finals

Orland Park student earns dean’s list honors

Sudoku puzzles are formatted as a 9x9 grid, broken down into nine 3x3 boxes. To solve a sudoku, the numbers 1 through 9 must fill each row, column and box. Each number can appear only once in each row, column and box. You can figure out the order in which the numbers will appear by using the numeric clues already provided in the boxes.

The more numbers you name, the easier it gets to solve the puzzle!

Supplied photo

Palos Heights resident Katie Sherman was named to the fall dean’s list at the University of Wisconsin-Madison.

Students who achieve at a high level academically are recognized by the dean at the close of each semester. To be eligible for the dean’s list, students must complete a minimum of 12 graded degree credits in that semester.

Iowa degrees for two from Orland Orland Park residents Alexandra Miuccio and Taylor Vennetti recently earned bachelor’s degrees from the University of Iowa, Iowa City.

Miuccio’s degree is in Mathematics, while Vennetti earned a

degree in Communication Studies.

Heights woman earns Marquette U. degree Palos Heights resident Cassandra Bilek recently earned a bachelor of science degree in Athletic Training from Marquette University, Milwaukee.

The Palos 118 Board of Education has announced that it has approved a tuition based, full-day kindergarten program for the 20182019 school year. The board has set the tuition for the full-day program at $3,250 per child. Low-income families may qualify for a discounted rate.

In order to be guaranteed a spot in the full-day program, registration must be fully completed, including providing required documentation no later than Feb. 16. A $500 deposit is also required at that time. After Feb. 16, a waiting list will be compiled at Palos East and Palos West Elementary Schools, and admission to full-day will be provided dependent upon availability.

The half-day kindergarten program will continue to be offered for free. Whether parents elect the full-day or half-day program, every kindergarten student will receive the core kindergarten curriculum aligned to the state’s kindergarten learning standards. The learning standards mandate what every kindergarten student should know and be able to do by the end of the academic year, regardless of the program in which they are enrolled.

Kindergarten registration week is Feb. 5-9 at Palos East and Palos West. For more information, contact Dr. Ron Cozza at (708) 761-5803.

Photo by Joe Boyle

WHATIZIT? The clue for this week’s Whatizit photo (above) is: Step into history.

Send your responses with your name and hometown by noon Monday to thereporter@comcast.net.

The correct answer to last week’s photo quiz is St. Michael Elementary School, 14355 S. Highland Ave., Orland Park. Oak Lawn resident Steve Rosenbaum knew it was St. Michael’s, which he added is the home of the Wildcats. Palos Park resident Ron Wagenhofer also knew it was St. Michael’s and added that a portion of the National Blue Ribbon Award banner could be seen in the photo. Worth residents Jerry and Carol Janicki also guessed correctly that is was St. Michael School.

St. Michael School was originally founded on Sept. 29, which is the feast of St. Michael the Archangel, in 1867 in an area called Goodings Grove, located at 159th and Will Cook Road. In 1924, the parish moved to its current location because of the emergence of the railroad. The school that stands today opened in 1949.

8 Thursday, February 8, 2018

The Regional News

LIBRARY NOTES Palos Heights library to explore Valentine’s Day Several activities for the week ahead have been announced at the Palos Heights Public Library, 12501 S. 71st Ave. For more information or to register for a program, call (708) 448-1473.

• The Rich and Romantic History of Valentines will be celebrated at 2 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 11. Patrons can celebrate the history of Valentine’s Day with Ellie Carlson in this part historical talk, part Valentine-making workshop. Participants will create a unique Valentine.

Supplies will be provided. Carlson will also share her own collection of vintage Valentines and all are invited to bring their own collection of Valentines to share.

• Lunch Bunch Book Discussion will take place at noon Monday, Feb. 12. This nonfiction book discussion group will meet to discuss “Evicted: Poverty and Profit in an American City” by Matthew Desmond. Copies are available at the Circulation Desk. New members are always welcome.

• Book and Film will be held at 2 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 15. Patrons can join the library staff for a brief discussion and then watch the movie based on the book. All participants will be entered into a raffle to win a paperback copy of the book. The library will be showing the film “The Lost City of Z” based on the true story by David Grann and it has a runtime of 141 minutes.

• Winter Night Hike is planned for 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 15.

Participants can discover nature’s nightlife on a one-mile hike around Lake Katherine guided

by Operations Manager Gareth Blakesley. This winter night hike will include a campfire and hot coco. Individuals should dress for hiking in winter weather conditions. Everyone should meet at Lake Katherine’s Nature Center.

• Smart Art: Valentine Pom-Pom Making will be held at 4 p.m. Tues-

day, Feb. 13. The program is for children in kindergarten through fourth grade.

Each month Smart Art allows patrons to create their creative masterpiece using different media.

Valentine Pom-Pom making is this month’s creation.

Love is in the Air beginning at 6 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 14. Children of all ages can enjoy stories about love and friendship, and make a unique Valentine’s Day craft.

Game Night for students in grades six and older is set for 4 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 15. The library will provide the games and snacks.

Orland Park library offers to digitize VHS tapes For more information or to register for a program, call (708) 428-5100.

• Digitizing Your VHS Tapes will take place at 6 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 15. Adults can save their memories in a digital format using the equipment in the library’s SMART Lab to convert VHS to DVDs. • Showcase in the Lobby with Clarence Goodman is scheduled for 7 p.m. Friday, Feb. 16. Singer/songwriter Clarence Goodman has trod the path of the American troubadour for a number of decades now. He has been called a cross between Sam Cooke and Bob Dylan and his original compositions span the breath of Americana, from pop to soul to folk.

• Super Smash Bros. Tournament will be held at 1 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 17. The battle is on for children in kindergarten through eighth grade to find the library’s best Smash player in a one vs. one tournament.

Register to compete or drop in to watch and cheer. Registration is required with teen’s Orland Park Public Library card.

• Pages and Pastries Book Discussion is set for 10 a.m. Monday, Feb. 19. This is an offsite adult book discussion hosted by the Orland Park Public Library. Readers meet at Panera Bread, 15252 S. La Grange Rd. Members will be dis-

cussing “Cutting Back” by Leslie Buck. New members are always welcome. Books are available at the library for checkout.

• Murder, Mayhem, Mystery and the Birth of Motion Pictures will take place at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 20. Patrons will travel back 120 years to the birth of motion pictures, an Industrial Revolution tale filled with international intrigue, mechanical marvels, fabulous flops and even some murder and mayhem, too. Participants will see rare clips of the earliest motion pictures and learn how inventors such as Thomas Edison established the path leading to today’s blockbusters.

• Building Blocks for Babies is scheduled at 9:30 and 10:30 a.m.

Wednesday, Feb. 21. The program is for children age birth through 23 months with parent or caregiver.

Parents and caregivers will spend time interacting with their baby during this story time designed especially for the youngest audience.

Storytellers will lead the group in stories and songs, both familiar and new.

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CLUB ACTIVITIES The Sauk-Calumet Sierra Club Group will meet at 7:15 p.m.

Feb. 12th at the Frankfort Public Library, 21119 Pfeiffer Rd. in Frankfort.

The program will highlight a father-daughter team who backpacked the John Muir Trail in California this past summer. Mel Tracy and his 17-year-old daughter Molly will share slides and tell

tales of their joy-filled 250-mile backpack trip hiking north on California’s John Muir Trail from 30 miles south of Mt. Whitney to the Yosemite Valley. Their threeweek experience included snow, then floodwaters, and finally fire danger.

All meetings are open to members and the general public. More information about the meeting or the club in general can be obtained by emailing Patrick Coffey at patrick.coffey@illinois.sierraclub.org.

Answers

Sudoku

Father, daughter tell tales of backpacking the Muir Trail in California

Puzzle on Page 7

Puzzle on Page 7

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SPORTS The Regional News • The Reporter

Ken Karrson, Sports Editor • sports@regionalpublishing.com Jeff Vorva, Sports Editor • sports@regionalpublishing.com

Thursday, February 2018 Thursday, March 5,8,2015

Southwest Section Southwest • Section•2, Page 1 2, Page 1

Photo by Tim Hadac

Photo by Ally Eames/USA Hockey

Palos Heights native Kendall Coyne is participating in her second Olympics. She brought home an Olympic silver medal (above) in 2014, and this year she hopes to bring home a gold.

Many sides to this Coyne Olympian keeps her balance as she manages school, work, social life and, of course, hockey

By Alison Moran Correspondent

Those who have time management issues in their lives might want to talk to Olympian Kendall Coyne.

The Palos Heights native is about to make her second Olympics appearance as a forward on the United States Women’s National Hockey Team. Opening ceremonies in Pyeongchang, South Korea begin on Friday. The first game for the U.S. women’s squad is against Finland at 1:40 a.m.

Central Time on Sunday.

Coyne, nicknamed “The Sidecar of Team USA Hockey” by NBC Sports, was one of a handful of U.S. Olympic team hockey players announced live on Jan. 1, during NBC’s Winter Classic.

“It was a special moment to be named to the Olympic team for a second time, and to be in New York as a representative of our team,’’ she said. “However, I wish every member of the team could have been there.”

People usually see the 5-foot-2, 125-pound Coyne, who earned

a silver medal in Sochi, Russia, in 2014, on TV on the ice and during local appearances. What they don’t see is the time and effort she puts into the game with practices while trying to balance life in the real world.

School. Hockey. Work. Hockey. Social life. Hockey.

Coyne says she manages her extraordinary life with one mantra: Balance.

“As an elite athlete, balance is so important,” she said. “It’s important to eat right, sleep a lot and get the proper body work when needed.”

Coyne learned the need for balance the hard way.

Last year, she told The Athletic, “Growing up, I was always hockey, hockey, hockey. I didn’t have a balance. I started to feel like I was going to get burnt out if I didn’t find that balance within myself. When I graduated college, I knew my priority was going to be my family, my friends, my fiancé (pro football player and Orland Park native Michael Schofield).

And hockey was right up there, but I also needed that balance

Living life at warp speed

By Alison Moran Correspondent

Photo by Tim Hadac

Kendall Coyne, making one of her numerous school appearances after winning a silver medal in the 2014 Winter Olympics, has been busy on and off the ice the past four years.

because of the lifestyle that we’re living.”

Schofield has been a key to helping manage Coyne schedule and workouts. The two knew each other at Sandburg High School and reunited while working out at a gym in 2014. Romance blossomed, according to her Olympic profile, when Schofield said he was “blown away” that she was working out with her good hand,

with her left hand still in a cast, having just had surgery on her wrist. Both have said they motivate each other to be their best in their respective sports. Throughout their courtship, Schofield has joined Coyne on the ice for speed drills.

Schofield talked about motivation in a story in the Denver Post: “We do a good job motivating each other and pushing

Kendall Coyne earned an Olympic silver medal for women’s hockey in Sochi in 2014, and since then, she seems to have lived her life at warp speed. Since the last Olympics, Coyne has: • Made numerous appearances in the area at schools and other functions, showing off her medal and delivering inspiring messages.

• Led the NCAA her senior year (2016) in goals, goals per game, points per game, shorthanded goals and hat tricks, earning the nation’s top women’s hockey honor, the Patty Kazmaier Memo-

each other,” he said. “She’s pretty strong, so there’s a couple of times I’ll grab a weight and I see her picking up a heavier one and I’m like... OK, I’m picking up an even heavier one.”

The two were engaged in January 2017, at The Plush Horse ice cream shop in Palos Park, which Schofield had decorated with rose petals and pictures of their courtship.

rial Award, while playing for Northeastern University.

• Led Northeastern’s hockey team to its first NCAA playoff berth, as the team’s captain.

• Earned her Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Organizational Communications from Northeastern.

• Won a Globie Award from the Boston Globe for Best Female Athlete of 2016.

• Netted two goals and was named the U.S. player of the game in the Americans’ 7-0 drubbing of Russia in the International Ice Hockey Federation’s Women’s World Championships in 2017, two See WARP, Page 2 Their wedding is set for July 7.

Recently, Coyne shared her upper-body workout on the Olympic Channel. During the threeminute video, she demonstrates both neutral grip and overhang pull-ups and chin-ups, which she says are important for developing her strength.

“As the smallest player on the See COYNE, Page 2

Sibling revelry: Palumbos win regional titles at Lemont R

ichards sophomore wrestler Rocco PaMia, a freshman seeded second, won the lumbo admits that on occasion he shoves 106-pound championship in the Class 2A around his younger sister, Mia. Lemont Regional title on Saturday while But that’s a good thing.

Rocco, who was seeded first, took care of “I shove her around to make her tougher,” he business at 145. said. “But I help coach her because she knows Mia also made history when she became I know a lot about the sport. She watches my the first freshman girl to win a wrestling matches. We’re a good duo, I guess.’’ regional title. She is believed to be the fourth A good duo, he guesses? regional champ in state history joinJEFF VORVA female Actually, this duo is much better than that. ing Mohamet-Seymour’s Mary Kelly (2002), This is a history-making duo. And there is no Making the Glenbard North’s Caitlyn Chase (2005) and guesswork there.

Extra Point Carbondale’s Alli Ragan (2010).

The Palumbo siblings are just the second By the way, Mary Kelly, a senior at the brother and sister combination to ever win time, won the 103-pound title the same day Illinois High School Association regional wrestling her brother, Chris won at 112. Mary and Chris Kelly’s titles on the same day, and the first bro/sis combo to See VORVA, Page 3 accomplish this has a Richards connection.

Photo by Jeff Vorva

Rocco and Mia Palumbo became the second brother/sister duo to win IHSA regional wrestling titles on the same day after they both won championships at Lemont.

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2

Section 2 Thursday, February 8, 2018

The Regional News - The Reporter

AREA SPORTS REPORT

RedHawks take second in state in competitive cheerleading

By Jeff Vorva

Bethany Senico plus Mother McAuley’s Rebecca Jiricek and Kristen Scheffler) qualified for the Bolingbrook Sectional on Saturday at the Brunswick Zone in Woodridge.

At the Argo Regional at El-Mar Bowl in Bridgeview, St. Laurence’s Paige Totosz and Emilia Flores each qualified for the Glenbard East Sectional the Brunswick Zone in Glendale Heights.

Sports Editor

Marist’s competitive cheerleaders won their third Illinois High School Association state trophy in seven years as the RedHawks claimed second place in the large school division of the state tournament Friday and Saturday at Grossinger Motors Arena in Bloomington.

Joliet West won the event with 94.44 followed by Marist’s 90.13. Sandburg finished fourth with 88.72.

Marist finished third in 2012 and second in 2013.

In the coed team division, Shepard took 10th with an 80.34, well behind Belvidere North’s championship score of 93.97.

Sandburg swimmers win SouthWest Suburban Blue Sandburg scored 242 points Saturday to win the SouthWest Suburban Blue conference meet while Stagg took third with 183.

Sandburg’s Kyle Fox won the 200 free (1 minute, 47.47 seconds) and 100 free (:48.46), while Eagles Carter Thoss won the 100 butterfly (:50.70) and Peter Bukiri claimed the 500 free (5:41.33). Stagg won the 200 free relay with a 1:28.99.

Wrestlers pin down sectional bids It is old hat that Sandburg’s wrestling team won another regional title.

But it never gets old for new crop of Eagle wrestlers and it certainly is new for Clinton Polz, who is in his first year at the helm. Since 2001, the Eagles have won 14 IHSA regional titles including Saturday’s Class 3A championship at Marist.

Pat Nolan (132 pounds) and Alex Hirschfield (182) won regional titles for Sandburg, which racked up 184.5 points, while Sam Wojcik (126), Tyler Villa (145), Tim Houston (152), Nate Goodman (195) and Mike Amedeo (220) took second. Third-place finishers Dom Iannantone (106), Jimmy Ferguson (120), Mike Bosco (170) and Joe Boyce (285) will join the others at the Hinsdale Central Sectional Friday and Saturday.

Marist’s Michael Leveille (106) and Jacobs Dado (138) plus Stagg’s Domenic Zaccone (120) Peter Radev (160) and Tommy Doyle (195) earned regional championships from the area.

In Class 2A, Richards’ Mia (106) and Rocco (145) Palumbo won regional titles at Lemont while Brother Rice’s Hassan Johnson (120), Dominic Murphy (160), Paul Gilva (170) and Myles Ruffin (285) also won crowns.

It’s already been a huge year for Murphy’s family as his sister, Abbey, won a gold medal for the USA U18 team in the International Ice Hockey federation Women’s World Championships in Russia in January. She is a 15-year-old sophomore at Mother McAuley.

All-SSC dancers

Supplied photo

Marist’s competitive cheerleading team claimed second in the state in the large team division on Saturday.

Hampton to guest at Brother Rice Sports Night Brother Rice is hosting a Sports Night at 6 p.m.

March 3 at the school’s Carmody Center. Dan Hampton will be the guest speaker. Tickets, which include dinner drinks and raffle starter tickets, are $60. For more information, contact Mike McShane at 773429-4343 or visit brotherrice.org.

Oak Lawn Baseball/Softball registration Oak Lawn’s Baseball and Softball League is accepting registration for the coming season for players age 4 to 18. For more information, visit oaklawnbaseball.com for more information.

Shooters tryouts The Southside Shooters boys basketball organization will be holding tryouts for the spring season March 5 at the Moraine Valley Community College G Building, 9000 College Parkway, Palos Hills.

Fifth and sixth graders will try out from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. while seventh and eighth graders will try out from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. The season will feature approximately 22 games with shootouts and league play.

For more information, contact Bill Finn at 708508-0170 or at finn@morainevalley.edu.

Area bowlers are high rollers

Sandburg’s girls bowling team won its first regional in school history with a 5,611 Saturday at the Brooks Regional at Castaways Bowl in Calumet City. Richards finished second and Oak Lawn fourth.

Senior Emily Schrader led Sandburg (which won four sectional titles since 2007 but never a regional) with 1,192 for six games while Karlie Colbert (1,190), Alyssa Novak (1,137), Vanesa Perez (1,058), and Jill Richmond (1,034) contributed to the championship.

Defending state Wheelchair Division state champion Sophia Jablonski qualified for sectional.

Sophomore Mia Jones led Richards with 1,230 while Caitlyn Solomon (1,163), Katie Strache (1,138), Jacy Rogers (675), Alexis Huscher (485), Kamari Hayes (475) and Hailey Kolarik (303) helped the Bulldogs to the runnerup finish.

Oak Lawn senior Allison Hebel led her squad

The South Suburban Conference announced its all-conference competitive dance team.

Shepard is represented by Ariel Villareal and Elizabeth Martinez, Oak Lawn’s members are Cat Heneghan and Casey Ostrowski, Evergreen Park is represented by Dominique McBride and Shiobin Moran and Richards is represented by Tajiah Jones and Jalin Ramsey.

Photo by Jeff Vorva

Brother Rice’s Myles Ruffin (top), scores a victory over Richards’ Marquis Hall for the 285-pound title at the Class 2A Lemont Regional on Saturday.

with 1,122 followed by Mia DiGrazia (1,064), Jayna Greiman (1,054), Veronika Sopczak (779), Hailey Gershon (565) and Jessica Sauerwein (510).

Evergreen Park’s Morgan Markowicz, Katrina DelRosario and Kiara Smith, Stagg’s Ava Saraz and Laila Hammad, Shepard’s Katie Lazowski and

Hills Baseball Softball registration The Hills Baseball Softball Association will have a registration Wednesday from 5 to 8:30 p.m. at the Hickory Hills Community Center, 7800 W. 89th Place in Hickory Hills.

For more information, contact Johnny Rivas at 708-296-1974.

CHICAGO FIRE NOTES

Rodriguez named team president but will also keep GM job

By Jeff Vorva

of the club.”

Rodríguez joined the Fire as General Manager in September, 2015, and improved the club with hires and signings, helping the club reach the MLS Cup playoffs for the first time since 2012.

Notable acquisitions include the addition of coach Veljko Paunovic in 2015, and subsequent signings of World Cup winner and ex-German national team captain, Bastian Schweinsteiger, Hungarian international forward Nemanja Nikolic, and U.S. national team midfielder, Dax McCarty.

“I am grateful to Andrew for his continued trust and support as we grow a world-class organization,” Rodríguez said. “Serving as president and general manager of this club is a great honor and privilege and I will do my very best to continue building a sustainable, championship program for our city.”

Sports Editor

Chicago Fire General Manager Nelson Rodriguez will wear a second hat in his role in upper management.

Rodriguez was named the team’s president last week and will continue to serve as general manager.

John Urban will serve as the club’s new chief operating officer.

“After a thorough review of our operations and completing a comprehensive search process, we believe Nelson and John are the perfect duo to lead our club,” said Chicago Fire Owner and Chairman Andrew Hauptman. “From the moment I met Nelson, I knew he was the right leader for the club. Over the past several years, he has created an exceptional foundation and culture for a top-tier club, on and off the field.

I am delighted that he is taking on this expanded role, and am equally thrilled that John is joining as our chief operating officer.”

Urban will oversee the club’s business operations. Most recently, as vice president of the attractions division at Legends (a partnership of the New York Yankees and Dallas Cowboys),

Coyne

Continued from Page 1 US National team, it’s important for me to do these (neutral grip) exercises every day, especially having had a wrist injury,” she said.

Coyne is keenly aware of her status as a role model.

Warp

Continued from Page 1 days after turning in a 60-page paper as a part of her Master’s degree.

• Fell in love and got engaged to Orland Park native/fellow Sandburg High School alum Michael Schofield, now an offensive tackle for the Los Angeles Chargers • Relocated to Colorado to live and train with Schofield, who won a Super Bowl ring as a starter for the Denver Broncos.

Photo by Jeff Vorva

Nelson Rodriguez will serve as the Fire’s general manager and president.

Fire beats South Florida 2-0 to open preseason

he oversaw the launch and operations of One World Observatory atop One World Trade Center in New York.

“I am excited to join Chicago Fire Soccer Club and Major League Soccer,” Urban said. “I was immediately

The Fire opened the preseason schedule with a 2-0 victory over South Florida on Saturday at Corbett Stadium in Tampa.

Goal-scoring wizard Nemanja Nikloic, who earned the Golden boot in Major Soccer League action with 24 goals in

attracted by ownership’s vision of the club, commitment to winning and to my family’s own affinity for the city. I look forward to working with Nelson, the staff, our partners and fans, adding to the rich tradition and success

“I embrace all the different roles being an Olympian provides,’’ she said.

“My favorite one is being a role model to the younger generation. I remember the sense of empowerment and inspiration that (Hockey Hall of Famer) Cammi Granato gave me when I was seven years old. If I can be that for girls today, it is an honor for me to do so.”

The current goal is earning a gold medal. But after that…

She’s not saying, despite several questions posed regarding a third Olympics in 2022, playing professional hockey, or her plans to return to work. Part of the balance she needs, perhaps, is to focus on one thing at a time.

“My only post-Olympic plan at the moment is my wedding,” she said.

• Earned three straight gold medals (2015, 2016, 2017) competing in the International Ice Hockey Federation Women’s World Championships.

• Was selected third in the National Women’s Hockey League’s draft, by the Boston Pride • Opted instead to play for the Minnesota Whitecaps, an independent professional women’s team, which worked better with her schedule.

• Created her own hockey camp for young skaters, at the rink where she began — the Arctic Ice Arena in Orland Park.

• Worked as an ambassador for the Chicago Blackhawks alongside Jonathan Toews and Jamal Mayers, promoting the sport in schools and communities.

• Became an ambassador for Ronald McDonald House Charities.

• Led the 2017 Four Nations Cup Tournament with seven points in four games, leading the U.S. to a gold medal, Coyne’s fifth since 2010.

• Lived through Hurricane Irma while training in Florida with the U.S. Women’s National Team, where water was a foot deep. She called it a “bonding experience” for teammates.

2017 scored the first goal of the preseason while SuperDraft selection Elliott Collier added the second.

Goalies Richard Sanchez and Stefan Cleveland each played a half to score the shutout.

The Fire returns to preseason action tonight, Thursday, against the Philadelphia Union and former Fire star David Accam at the Joe DiMaggio Sports Complex.

Kickoff is 10 a.m. CT with a livestream available at Chicago-Fire.com.

Roughnecks come to town The Fire will play a rare preseason game at Toyota Park in Bridgeview when it hosts its USL affiliate, the Tulsa Roughnecks FC, at noon March 3.

Admission for fans is a suggested donation of $10 with all proceeds benefiting the Chicago Fire Foundation, specifically the growth of the award-winning P.L.A.Y.S. Program currently implemented in 20 Chicagoland public schools.

All seating will be general admission in sections 127-129. Parking will be free and concessions, including beer, will be sold. Parking lots open at 9 a.m. with gates opening at 11 a.m. The Chicago Fire Fan Shop will open during the match.

FOCUS ON AREA COLLEGES

Seventh heaven: MVCC men on a roll

By Jeff Vorva Sports Editor

Moraine Valley Community College’s men’s basketball team is red-hot as it entered this week with a seven-game winning streak to improve to 15-8 overall and 7-1 in the Illinois Skyway Collegiate Conference.

One of those victories was a 75-68 triumph over Prairie State College Jan. 30 as Deshawn Wilson had 15 points, Nick Holmes 14 and Liddell Davis and Lawrence Porter each scored 10.

Women’s basketball: After a lull in which the Cyclones dropped three out of four they earned a dominant 94-47 home win over Oakton on Thursday. Ashley Hunter had 28 points and Creighton Fed added 25 and Kristin McGee 23.

St. Xavier University Women’s basketball: The Cougars

whipped Trinity International 101-42 Saturday at home to improve to 21-2 overall and 16-0 in the Chicagoland Collegiate Athletic Conference. Senior Kara Krolicki had 20 points, eight assists and seven steals in 23 minutes.

Men’s basketball: Jack Brody had 20 points and 12 rebounds but the Cougars suffered an 86-84 setback to Trinity International University on Saturday at the Shannon Center. It was Brody’s 10th double-double of the season but the Cougars fell to 14-11 overall and 8-8 in the CCAC.

Trinity Christian College

Women’s track: Maubon Paye finished 13th in the long jump and 16th in the triple jump in the Olivet Nazarene Invitational, an indoor meet with NAIA and NCAA teams. Olivia Hoekstra took 12th in the 400 with a time of 1 minutes, 01.99 seconds.

The Regional News - The Reporter

Thursday, February 8, 2018 Section 2

3

AREA HOOPS AT A GLANCE BOYS Brother Rice Chicago Christian Evergreen Park Marist Oak Lawn Richards Sandburg Shepard St. Laurence Stagg

W-L STREAK NEXT 15-9 12-10 9-13 21-3 16-6 10-12 15-7 14-6 16-8 8-13

L1 L1 L1 W2 W6 W3 L1 W6 L2 W1

Marquel Porter and his Shepard teammates will visit Oak Lawn on Friday night in a huge South Suburban Conference Red showdown.

at DePaul Prep, Sat. at Walther Christian, Fri.; hosts Elmwood Park, Tues. at Eisenhower, Fri.; vs. TBA in Indian Creek Shootout at Marquette Academy, Sat.; hosts Richards, Tues. at St. Viator, Sat. hosts Shepard, Fri., hosts Reavis, Tues. hosts Agricultural Science, Fri.; at Evergreen Park, Tues. at Lincoln-Way East, Fri. at Oak Lawn, Fri. hosts St. Francis, Fri.; at Andrew, Tues. at Bolingbrook, Fri.; vs. Jones Prep at Homewood-Flossmoor Shootout, Sat.

Photo by Jeff Vorva

* Records through Sunday, Feb. 4; compiled by Randy Whalen

GIRLS

W-L STREAK NEXT Chicago Christian 10-15 W2 vs. TBD in Class 2A Corliss Regional, Fri. Evergreen Park 22-3 W3 vs winner of Perspectives/Leadership vs. Thornridge game at Class 3A Brooks Reg., Wed. Marist 21-5 W2 vs. winner of Bloom Twp. vs. Bremen game at Class 4A Bloom Township, Regional, Tues.

Mother McAuley 20-7 L1 hosts Simeon, Fri.; vs. winner of Sandburg vs. T.F. South game at Sandburg Class 4A Regional, Tues.

Oak Lawn 16-8 W6 at Evergreen Park, Thurs.; vs. T.F. North at T.F. North Class 4A Regional, Mon.; If win, vs. Lincoln-Way W. Wed. Richards 17-7 L3 at Eisenhower, Thurs. vs. Thornwood at Bloom Township Class 4A Regional, Tues.

Sandburg 9-16 L5 at Joliet Catholic, Thurs.; hosts T.F. South in Sandburg Class 4A Regional, Mon.; If win, host McAuley Shepard 6-16 L4 at Argo, Thurs.; vs. Thornton in Lincoln-Way E. Class 4A Regional, Mon.; If win, vs. host L-W E., Tues.

St. Laurence 14-12 W3 hosts winner of Instituto Health Science Charter vs. Little Village in St. Laurence Class 3A Regional, Tues.

Stagg 14-10 L4 hosts Reavis, Thurs.; vs. Crete-Monee at Lincoln-Way-East in Class 4A Regional, Tues. * Records through Sunday, Feb. 4; compiled by Randy Whalen

FOCUS ON GIRLS BASKETBALL

FOCUS ON BOYS BASKETBALL

Streaking Stagg stuns Sandburg

By Jason Maholy and Jeff Vorva

Southwest Regional Publishing

By Jeff Vorva Sports Editor

Evergreen Park has had a banner season, racking up 20 wins and picking up a top-10 ranking in the Associated Press state poll.

And the respect continues.

The Mustangs were given the No. 1 seed in of the Illinois High School Association Class 3A Rich East Sectional sub-sectionals. There are nine teams in this sub-sectional with Morgan Park picking up the second seed, Chicago Vocational grabbing the third and Brooks picking up the fourth.

EP will take on either Perspectives/Leadership Coop or Thornridge at the Brooks Regional at 7:30 p.m. on Wednesday.

Bishop McNamara, Kankakee, Hillcrest and Providence are the top four seeds in the other subsectional.

In other 3A action, St. Laurence will host a regional and drew the No. 3 seed in the 20-team Little Village Sectional. Bogan and Lindblom drew the top two seeds.

The Vikings host either Instituto Health Science Charter or Little Village at 6 p.m. Tuesday.

In Class 4A, seven area teams are in the 21-team Mother McAuley Sectional as Marist drew the second seed and McAuley is seeded third. Lincoln-Way East drew the top seed. Fifth seed Marian Catholic and sixth-seed Homewood-Flossmoor also could be dangerous.

Vorva

Continued from Page 1 names might not be widely recognizable around these parts, but their father is Jerry Kelly, who won Class AA titles for Richards in 1977 and 1978. Their uncle, Bill, won a couple of state titles as well and an NCAA championship, while uncles Jim and Paul were also strong on the mat.

So, the Palumbos do not make up the first family of Richards wrestling, but they are still pretty darn good.

Jason Maholy, a longtime journalist who wrestled at Lockport High School and is not one who throws out hyperbole very much, said Mia winning the South Suburban Red conference championship as a freshman girl was “an amazing story.’’

“A freshman girl winning a conference championship is one of the greatest individual accomplishments I have ever heard of in any high school sport,” he said.

Mia took it to another level on Saturday after beating Brother Rice’s Michael Loughney in the semifinals 8-4 and top-seeded St. Rita’s Noel Rosales, 3-1, in the finals to improve to 25-3.

“This is the best feeling,” she said. “My matches were close and I never worried about losing — I just kept going and going.’’

Rocco is a pretty cool name for a wrestler, and in the semifinals he pinned a kid with an even cooler name — Lemont’s Connor Stomp — in 2 minutes, 27 seconds. Rocco won the title with a 6-1 victory over St. Rita’s Nate Bennett to improve to 27-3.

He might be a little overshadowed by his sister’s success but the sophomore is poised for a huge career. Last year, Rocco won a re-

this season.

“It was awesome. We haven’t had a game like this in a while so I think this is going to be really great for the team,” he said. “The intensity of the game really got us going and we were running and playing hard on defense, getting steals, finding the open guy. One thing led to another and we got things done.”

Photo by Jeff Vorva

Evergreen Park coach Bruce Scaduto and his team drew a top sub-sectional seed at the Class 3A Sectional, which opens next week.

Stagg drew the eighth seed, Richards is 10th, Oak Lawn 13th, Sandburg 14th, and Shepard 18th.

Marist faces either Bloom or Bremen at 6 p.m. Tuesday at the Bloom Regional.

McAuley faces either Sandburg or Thornton Fractional south at 6 p.m. Tuesday at the Sandburg Regional. Sandburg squares off against 20th-seeded TF South at 7 p.m. Monday.

Stagg faces ninth-seeded CreteMonee at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday at the Lincoln-Way East Regional.

Richards battles seventh-seeded Thornwood at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday at Bloom.

Oak Lawn takes on 17th-seeded Thornton Fractional North at 6 p.m. Monday at the T.F. North Regional.

Shepard challenges 16th-seeded Thornton at 7 p.m. Monday at the Lincoln-Way East Regional.

McAuley second in tournament Mother McAuley lost a tough 50-49 contest against visiting Loyola Saturday in the final game of the McAuley/Loyola Tournament. Grace Hynes had 16 points for the Mighty Macs. gional title and qualified for state.

A year later, he is now a target.

“It’s fun to have that target on your back to prove that you are worthy,’’ he said. “I lost the first round at state but it was a great experience. Richards did a great job buying us hotels and team apparel.’’

Rocco sported a United State Marines cap at the regional after he was done wrestling and said if he can’t find a collegiate fit, he’s going right into the Marines.

“It tough and I love to push myself,” he said. “I would love a chance to defend my country.’’

Growing up, he said he played several sports but he is concentrating on wrestling now.

About the only thing that didn’t go Richards’ way was winning the team championship. The Bulldogs (158.5 points) finished behind champion St. Rita (191) and runnerup Lemont (181).

But they will still bring a solid number of individuals to at Hinsdale South on Friday and Saturday.

Aside from the champion Palumbos, Jason McIntyre (132), Marty Cosgrove (220) and Marquis Hall (285) finished second and Adam Alkilani (113), Basil Muhammad (126) and Andre Jefferson (195) finished third and all will be heading to Darien.

Bulldogs coach Nick Grabarek was hoping his team could win its first regional since the Kelly boys were dominating in 1979.

But he was happy with the way his team competed. The Bulldogs won conference titles on all three levels so the future is bright.

“This is the toughest regional — St. Rita and Lemont have great programs,” he said. “Our program is getting better and better. Mia and Rocco met or exceeded their expectations. The kids are buying in and we hope to be strong for a while.’’

Stagg coach Marty Strus was waiting all season for his squad to put together a full 32 minutes of all-around good basketball.

A rivalry game against Sandburg and the chance to avenge a two-point loss in December may have been just the motivation the Chargers needed.

Stagg took a one-point lead at the end of the first quarter and never again trailed, and closed the game with a dominant fourth quarter as the Chargers topped Sandburg, 46-28, on Friday in Palos Hills. The victory was the Chargers’ third in fourth games after enduring a five-game losing streak.

Strus said the effort was “by far” Stagg’s most complete game and is hopeful the Chargers (813, 2-4 in SouthWest Suburban Conference Blue) can use the performance as a springboard to better things down the stretch and into the postseason.

Senior forward John Mahoney led all scorers with 17 points, and senior point guard Josh Blim added 10 for the victors.

Sandburg (15-7, 2-4) was led

by Jake Pygon’s nine points.

“Our whole team was dialed in...there was just an attention to detail about what we’re trying to do offensively and defensively,” Strus said. “It’s not hard to get these guys motivated for this game, but regardless of the opponent, we just needed a game like this. We’ve been close, we’ve been playing hard, we’ve been getting better, we just haven’t

Red-hot excitement The South Suburban Red is still wild and three area teams crowded at the top.

Heading into this week’s action, Shepard and Richards are tied at 7-3 with Oak Lawn right behind at 6-3. Oak Lawn already beat Richards in January. On Friday night, Shepard visits Oak Lawn. Richards visits Shepard on Feb. 16.

Tight games continue to rule in the conference as Richards beat Argo 64-58 and Shepard beat Evergreen Park 64-55 on Friday night.

Trevon Jones had 15 points to lead Richards against the Argonauts.

Chris Harrison had 34 points for Shepard and Marquel Porter added 15 against EP.

Saturday matinee Photo by Jason Maholy

Stagg’s high-flying Nick Harper goes up for a shot against Sandburg on Friday night in a 46-28 Chargers victory on Friday night in Palos Hills.

quite gotten over that hump.

I’m really hoping they see this is something two really great practices and a focused effort can do for us against anybody, not just Sandburg.

“This was fun. I couldn’t be

more proud of our effort, and just our grit and our toughness tonight was outstanding.”

Blim agreed with his coach that the effort, which included a 16-0 run to open the fourth quarter, was the Chargers’ best

One of the biggest games in the East Suburban Catholic Conference is scheduled for 3:30 p.m. on Saturday, when Marist (5-1 in the league and tied with Benet entering this week’s action) visits St. Viator (6-0).

On Friday, Marist had to scramble with a 44-37 overtime win over Notre Dame as Morgan Taylor scored 16 points.

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EP, Marist and McAuley pick up high sectional seeds

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73rd Pl. 74th St. 74th Pl.

75th St.

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Section 2 Thursday, February 8, 2018

The Regional News - The Reporter

Officiating is a great way to connect with sports and community Editor’s note: The following was written by Bob Gardner, executive director of the National Federation of State High School Associations and Craig Anderson, executive director of the Illinois High School Association. We added a few photos of officials in action in recent years.

They don’t make the headlines, their names are not in the box scores and they don’t make the all-star teams, but perhaps the most important individuals in high school sports are the contest officials.

These individuals are so important

that, in fact, there would be no organized competitive sports at the high school level without the men and women who officiate these contests every day across the country. Subtract the dedicated men and women who officiate high school sports and competitive sports would no longer be organized; they would be chaotic.

In some areas, high school officials are retiring faster than new licenses are being issued. And junior varsity, freshmen and middle school games are being postponed – or even cancelled – because

there are not enough men and women to officiate them.

Anyone looking for a unique way to contribute to the local community should consider becoming a licensed high school official. For individuals who played sports in high school, officiating is a great way to stay close to the sport after their playing days have ended. Officiating helps people stay in shape, expands their social and professional network and offers parttime work that is flexible, yet pays. In fact, officiating is a form of community service, but with compensation.

Another benefit of officiating is that individuals become role models so that teenagers in the community can learn the life lessons that high school sports teach. Students learn to respect their opponents and the rules of the game and the importance of practicing good sportsmanship thanks, in part, to those men and women who officiate. And the objectivity and integrity that high school officials display is an example that every young person needs to observe firsthand. In short, communities around the country will be stronger

because of the life lessons that high school officials help teach the next generation.

Officiating is a great way to stay connected to sports and to give back to the local high school and community.

We need dedicated men and women to become involved so that high school sports can continue to prosper for years to come.

Individuals interested in learning more about becoming a high school official, and even begin the application process, can do so at www.HighSchoolOfficials.com.

Officials and umpires are in step with the sports they cover as a referee (left photo) stays in step with Evergreen Park’s Jalen Lynch in October and an umpire matches St. Xavier University softball player Amanda Ruskowsky stride for stride in a game in April.

Occasionally, referees have to cool off hot situations, like this one during a high school basketball game last season.

Once in a while players and refs can share a laugh in the heat of battle.

This umpire got a kick out of his game as he danced to the “Y.M.C.A” song between innings of an Illinois Power League at the Ballpark in Rosemont in July.

Sometimes (OK, a lot of times) officials and umps get involved in arguments, like this one during the high school baseball season in the spring.

Photos by Jeff Vorva This official signals a touchdown for Marist in the Marist-Brother Rice game, which kicked off the prep football season in August.

High school association executives Bob Gardner and Craig Anderson say that without officials there would be no high school sports. They say they are concerned there is a shortage of officials nationally.

The Regional News - The Reporter

The Reporter Newspapers Call 448-6161 Deadline 5 p.m. Monday Hours M-F 9 to 5

Thursday,February 8, 2018 Section 2

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Property Listings

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

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT - CHANCERY DIVISION MOREQUITY, INC Plaintiff, -v.ANDRZEJ KULIKOWSKI, RENETA KULIKOWSKI, PNC BANK, N.A. S/I/I TO MIDAMERICA BANK, FSB Defendants 13 CH 5764 8115 WEST 90TH STREET HICKORY HILLS, IL 60457 NOTICE OF SALE PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above cause on May 26, 2015, an agent for The Judicial Sales Corporation, will at 10:30 AM on February 23, 2018, at The Judicial Sales Corporation, One South Wacker Drive, CHICAGO, IL, 60606, sell at public auction to the highest bidder, as set forth below, the following described real estate: Commonly known as 8115 WEST 90TH STREET, HICKORY HILLS, IL 60457 Property Index No. 23-02-209-027-0000.

The real estate is improved with a two story, single family home with an attached garage.

Sale terms: 25% down of the highest bid by certified funds at the close of the sale payable to The Judicial Sales Corporation. No third party checks will be accepted. The balance in certified funds/ or wire transfer, is due within twenty-four (24) hours. 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: Visit our website at service. atty-pierce.com. between the hours of 3 and 5pm.

McCalla Raymer Leibert Pierce, LLC, Plaintiff’s Attorneys, One North Dearborn Street, Suite 1200, Chicago, IL 60602. Tel No. (312) 416-5500. Please refer to file number 11143.

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.

McCalla Raymer Leibert Pierce, LLC One North Dearborn Street, Suite 1200 Chicago, IL 60602 (312) 416-5500 E-Mail: pleadings@mccalla.com Attorney File No. 11143 Attorney Code. 61256 Case Number: 13 CH 5764 TJSC#: 38-706 I3075111

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT - CHANCERY DIVISION WELLS FARGO BANK, N.A. Plaintiff, -v.DANNY KATEEB, STATE OF ILLINOIS - DEPARTMENT OF REVENUE Defendants 16 CH 016474 16787 91ST AVENUE ORLAND HILLS, IL 60487 NOTICE OF SALE PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above cause on March 22, 2017, an agent for The Judicial Sales Corporation, will at 10:30 AM on March 7, 2018, at The Judicial Sales Corporation, One South Wacker Drive, CHICAGO, IL, 60606, sell at public auction to the highest bidder, as set forth below, the following described real estate: Commonly known as 16787 91ST AVENUE, ORLAND HILLS, IL 60487 Property Index No. 27-27-206-015-0000.

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 in certified funds/ or wire transfer, is due within twenty-four (24) hours. 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 14-16-16007.

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. 14-16-16007 Attorney ARDC No. 00468002 Attorney Code. 21762 Case Number: 16 CH 016474 TJSC#: 38-933 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.

I3076057

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT - CHANCERY DIVISION WELLS FARGO BANK, N.A. Plaintiff, -v.NANCY M. LEMPERA A/KA NANCY MAE LEMPERA, THOMAS J. LEMPERA, UNKNOWN OWNERS AND NON-RECORD CLAIMANTS Defendants 16 CH 7404 8037 LINDER AVENUE BURBANK, IL 60459 NOTICE OF SALE PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above cause on December 4, 2017, an agent for The Judicial Sales Corporation, will at 10:30 AM on March 20, 2018, at The Judicial Sales Corporation, One South Wacker Drive, CHICAGO, IL, 60606, sell at public auction to the highest bidder, as set forth below, the following described real estate: Commonly known as 8037 LINDER AVENUE, BURBANK, IL 60459

U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION Plaintiff, -v.MATTHEW J. HAJER, SECRETARY OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT, ILLINOIS HOUSING DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY Defendants 2017 CH 8792 9238 S. 49TH CT Oak Lawn, IL 60453 NOTICE OF SALE PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above cause on December 4, 2017, an agent for The Judicial Sales Corporation, will at 10:30 AM on March 6, 2018, at The Judicial Sales Corporation, One South Wacker Drive, CHICAGO, IL, 60606, sell at public auction to the highest bidder, as set forth below, the following described real estate: Commonly known as 9238 S. 49TH CT, Oak Lawn, IL 60453 Property Index No. 24-04-428-021-0000.

The real estate is improved with a single family residence.

The judgment amount was $94,990.66.

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 in certified funds/or wire transfer, is due within twenty-four (24) hours. The subject property is subject to general real estate taxes, special assessments, or special taxes levied against said real estate and is offered for sale without any representation as to quality or quantity of title and without recourse to Plaintiff and in AS IS condition. The sale is further subject to confirmation by the court.

Upon payment in full of the amount bid, the purchaser will receive a Certificate of Sale that will entitle the purchaser to a deed to the real estate after confirmation of the sale.

The property will NOT be open for inspection and plaintiff makes no representation as to the condition of the property. Prospective bidders are admonished to check the court file to verify all information.

If this property is a condominium unit, the purchaser of the unit at the foreclosure sale, other than a mortgagee, shall pay the assessments and the legal fees required by The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/9(g)(1) and (g)(4). If this property is a condominium unit which is part of a common interest community, the purchaser of the unit at the foreclosure sale other than a mortgagee shall pay the assessments required by The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/18.5(g-1).

IF YOU ARE THE MORTGAGOR (HOMEOWNER), YOU HAVE THE RIGHT TO REMAIN IN POSSESSION FOR 30 DAYS AFTER ENTRY OF AN ORDER OF POSSESSION, IN ACCORDANCE WITH SECTION 15-1701(C) OF THE ILLINOIS MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE LAW. You will need a photo identification issued by a government agency (driver’s license, passport, etc.) in order to gain entry into our building and the foreclosure sale room in Cook County and the same identification for sales held at other county venues where The Judicial Sales Corporation conducts foreclosure sales.

For information, contact Plaintiff s attorney: MARINOSCI LAW GROUP, P.C., 134 N LaSalle St., STE 1900, Chicago, IL 60602, (312) 940-8580 Please refer to file number 17-07814.

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.

MARINOSCI LAW GROUP, P.C. 134 N LaSalle St., STE 1900 Chicago, IL 60602 (312) 940-8580 E-Mail: mlgil@mlg-defaultlaw.com Attorney File No. 17-07814 Attorney Code. 59049 Case Number: 2017 CH 8792 TJSC#: 38-185 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.

Houses For Sale IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT - CHANCERY DIVISION HSBC BANK USA, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE FOR FREMONT HOME LOAN TRUST 2005-D, MORTGAGE-BACKED CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2005-D; Plaintiff, vs.

MARJORIE D. ADAMS; WAYNE A. ADAMS; CITIBANK, N.A.; DIRECTOR OF EMPLOYMENT SECURITY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS; ILLINOIS DEPARTMENT OF REVENUE; FIA CARD SERVICES, N.A.; VILLAGE OF ARLINGTON HEIGHTS; MARJORIE D. ADAMS AS TRUSTEE OF THE VICTORIA LAND TRUST; UNKNOWN HEIRS AND LEGATEES OF MARJORIE D. ADAMS, IF ANY; UNKNOWN HEIRS AND LEGATEES OF WAYNE A. ADAMS, IF ANY; UNKNOWN OWNERS AND NON RECORD CLAIMANTS; Defendants, 15 CH 12854 NOTICE OF SALE PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above entitled cause Intercounty Judicial Sales Corporation will on Monday, February 26, 2018 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. 23-27-402-007-0000.

Commonly known as 12401 South 91st Avenue, Palos Park, IL 60464.

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 Clerk at Plaintiff’s Attorney, The Wirbicki Law Group, 33 West Monroe Street, Chicago, Illinois 60603. (312) 360-9455 WA15-0500.

INTERCOUNTY JUDICIAL SALES CORPORATION Selling Officer, (312) 444-1122 I3073939

The Regional News Call 448-4000 Deadline 5 p.m. Monday Hours M-F 9 to 5

Real Estate

Houses For Sale

Houses For Sale IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT - CHANCERY DIVISION BANK OF AMERICA, N.A.; Plaintiff, vs.

JOAN RUNDLE; UNKNOWN OWNERS AND NON RECORD CLAIMANTS; ORLAN BROOK CONDOMINIUM OWNERS’ ASSOCIATION; UNKNOWN SUCCESSOR TRUSTEE (S), UNDER THE TERMS AND PROVISIONS OF A CERTAIN TRUST AGREEMENT DATED APRIL 28, 2014 AND DESIGNATED AS THE RUNDLE LAND TRUST; Defendants, 17 CH 7342 NOTICE OF SALE PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above entitled cause Intercounty Judicial Sales Corporation will on Monday, March 5, 2018 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. 27-14-302-018-1097 and 27-14-302-0181198.

Commonly known as 15713 Orlan Brook Drive, Unit Number 97, Orland Park, IL 60462.

The mortgaged real estate is improved with a condominium residence. The purchaser of the unit other than a mortgagee shall pay the assessments and the legal fees required by subdivisions (g) (1) and (g)(4) of Section 9 of the Condominium Property Act Sale terms: 10% down by certified funds, balance, by certified funds, within 24 hours. No refunds. The property will NOT be open for inspection.

For information call Sales Department at Plaintiff’s Attorney, Manley Deas Kochalski, LLC, One East Wacker Drive, Chicago, Illinois 60601. (614) 2205611. 17-017501 F2 INTERCOUNTY JUDICIAL SALES CORPORATION Selling Officer, (312) 444-1122 I3074641

PUBLISHER’S NOTICE All Real Estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Fair Housing Act which makes it illegal to advertise “any preference, limitation or discrimination.” Familial status includes children under the age of 18 living with parents or legal custodians, pregnant women and people securing custody of children under 18.

This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. To complain of discrimination call HUD toll-free at 1 (800) 669-9777. The toll-free telephone number for the hearing impaired is: 1 (800) 927-9275.

Property Index No. 19-33-116-013-0000.

The real estate is improved with a single family home with no garage.

Sale terms: 25% down of the highest bid by certified funds at the close of the sale payable to The Judicial Sales Corporation. No third party checks will be accepted. The balance in certified funds/or wire transfer, is due within twenty-four (24) hours. 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: Visit our website at service. atty-pierce.com. between the hours of 3 and 5pm.

McCalla Raymer Leibert Pierce, LLC, Plaintiff’s Attorneys, One North Dearborn Street, Suite 1200, Chicago, IL 60602. Tel No. (312) 416-5500. Please refer to file number 256176.

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.

McCalla Raymer Leibert Pierce, LLC One North Dearborn Street, Suite 1200 Chicago, IL 60602 (312) 416-5500 E-Mail: pleadings@mccalla.com Attorney File No. 256176 Attorney Code. 61256 Case Number: 16 CH 7404 TJSC#: 37-11162

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IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT - CHANCERY DIVISION THE BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON FKA THE BANK OF NEW YORK AS TRUSTEE FOR THE CERTIFICATEHOLDERS OF CWMBS, INC., CHL MORTGAGE PASS-THROUGH TRUST 2005-22, MORTGAGE PASS-THROUGH TRUST 2005-22, MORTGAGE PASS-THROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2005-22 Plaintiff, vs.

JANE BLANKSHAIN; THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, OFFICE OF THE DEPARTMENT OF THE TREASURY; UNKNOWN OWNERS AND NON-RECORD CLAIMANTS; CEDAR CROSSING III Defendants, 16 CH 2969 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, March 6, 2018 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. 27-02-201-079-0000.

Commonly known as 13701 Trafalgar Court, Orland Park, IL 60462.

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 Sales Department at Plaintiff’s Attorney, Manley Deas Kochalski, LLC, One East Wacker Drive, Chicago, Illinois 60601. (614) 2205611. 17-030504 F2 INTERCOUNTY JUDICIAL SALES CORPORATION Selling Officer, (312) 444-1122 I3074643

Houses For Sale IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT - CHANCERY DIVISION NATIONSTAR MORTGAGE LLC DBA MR. COOPER; Plaintiff, vs.

KERRY VINKLER; JPMORGAN CHASE BANK, N.A.; MATTHEW VINKLER; Defendants, 17 CH 12477 NOTICE OF SALE PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above entitled cause Intercounty Judicial Sales Corporation will on Monday, March 5, 2018 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. 23-02-313-012-0000.

Commonly known as 9260 South 86th Avenue, Hickory Hills, IL 60457.

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 Sales Department at Plaintiff’s Attorney, Manley Deas Kochalski, LLC, One East Wacker Drive, Chicago, Illinois 60601. (614) 2205611. 17-030301 F2 INTERCOUNTY JUDICIAL SALES CORPORATION Selling Officer, (312) 444-1122 I3074640

5 ACRES RT. 45 IN PEOTONE 600 ft. frontage x 400 ft. deep 40 ft. x 60 ft. pole barn CALL 815-450-0004 Houses For Sale IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT - CHANCERY DIVISION THE BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON; Plaintiff, vs.

MARK J. HOLDA, ET AL; Defendants, REPUBLIC BANK OF CHICAGO; Counter-Plaintiff, vs.

MARK J. HOLDA AKA MARK HOLDA AKA MARK J. HOLDA; LYDIA MICHELLE HOLDA FKA LYDIA ROJAS AKA LYDIA MICHELLE HOLDA; HOLDA ENTERPRISES, INC.; FIRST MIDWEST BANK, SUCCESSOR

BY MERGER TO PALOS BANK AND TRUST COMPANY, AS TRUSTEE UNDER TRUST AGREEMENT DATED DECEMBER 13, 2000 AND KNOWN AS TRUST NUMBER 1-5000; LOMA VISTA NURSERY; CHRYSLER FINANCIAL SERVICES AMERICAS LLC DBA CHRYSLER FINANCIAL FKA DAIMLERCHRYSLER FINANCIAL SERVICES AMERICA, LLC; STATE OF ILLINOIS; CAPITAL ONE BANK, (USA), N.A., CITY OF PALOS HEIGHTS; THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA; DEPARTMENT OF TREASURY; UNKNOWN BENEFICIARIES OF TRUST AGREEMENT DATED DECEMBER 13, 2000 AND KNOWN AS TRUST NUMBER 1-5000; UNKNOWN OWNERS AND NON RECORD CLAIMANTS; Counter-Defendants 12 CH 8082 NOTICE OF SALE PUBLIC NOTICE is hereby given that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure entered in the above entitled cause Intercounty Judicial Sales Corporation will on Friday, March 9, 2018, at the hour of 11 a.m. in their office at 120 West Madison Street, Suite 718A, Chicago, Illinois, sell to the highest bidder for cash, the following described mortgaged real estate: P.I.N. 24-31-107-010-0000.

Commonly known as 6833 West 127st Street, Palos Heights, IL 60463.

The mortgaged real estate is 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. THE SALE SHALL BE SUBJECT TO GENERAL TAXES, SPECIAL ASSESSMENTS AND TO A PRIOR RECORDED FIRST MORTGAGE. Sale terms: Bidders must present, at the time of sale, a cashier’s or certified check for 10% of the successful bid amount. The balance of the successful bid shall be paid within 24 hours, by similar funds. The property will NOT be open for inspection.

For information call Mr. Brandon R. Freud at Plaintiff’s Attorney, Ruff, Freud, Breems and Nelson, Ltd., 200 North LaSalle Street, Chicago, Illinois 60601.

(312) 263-3890.

INTERCOUNTY JUDICIAL SALES CORPORATION Selling Officer, (312) 444-1122 I3075066

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Section 2 Thursday, February 8, 2018

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Your Guide to Arts and Events in the Southwest Suburbs and Beyond

OUT & ABOUT

The Regional News • The Reporter

Thursday, February 8, 2018

Southwest • Section 2, Page 7

BROADEN YOUR HORIZONS Art League hosts oil painter for demo tomorrow

Supplied photo

The Michael Walters Band.

The Center announces activities The Center, 12700 Southwest Highway, Palos Park, has announced a slate of activities for the days ahead.

For more information or to register for a program, call (708) 361-3650.

• Family Service Sunday will be held at 10 a.m. Feb. 11. Participants will gather indoors inside the Lodge on the west side of Southwest Highway for this family friendly service. Hospitality will be shared.

• Motown Disco Valentine’s Dance is scheduled from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 11. Fresh from their triumphant performance at last summer’s Motown in the Pines, the Michael Walters Band comes back to perform Motown, disco, and timeless classics. The Great Hall of the Lodge, including the balcony, will be set with nightclub tables and a large dance floor. Everyone is invited to enjoy a Valentine’s evening with a buf-

fet prepared by Chef Jeremy and attended by Winnie Brock and her wait staff. The cost is $52 per person. Space is limited. Advance tickets are required.

• Luncheon: “The Myths and Magic of the Japanese Garden” with Ron Karlic will be held from noon to 2 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 13. Karlic has fashioned a program from his six trips to Japan. It is a compilation of photos and video that takes the audience through many of the 80 gardens Karlic has visited in Japan. The program discusses the six myths about Japanese gardens, deconstructs them, and discusses their components. Karlic will also discuss what makes a good garden and will show a very bad example of a Japanese garden from Argentina.

Luncheons cost $22 and advance reservations are necessary.

• Ash Wednesday Service will be held at 7:30 a.m. and 6:30 p.m.

Feb 14. Rev. Chris Hopkins will

offer a brief prayer service with the distribution of ashes in the Wayside Chapel as the Lenten Season begins. All are welcome.

• Camp Scholarship Benefit: A Night to Linger is scheduled from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 15 at Hackney’s, 9550 W. 123rd St. Palos Park. The Center invites the community to join in a night honoring Farm and Ranch Camp. The night will be filled with a silent auction, raffles, hors d’ oeuvres and a slideshow. Proceeds benefit the Camp Scholarship Fund, helping send children to camp who otherwise would be financially unable to attend.

Last year, more than one-third of The Center’s 300-plus campers received camp scholarships amounting to more than $60,000 in need-based awards. $20 advance tickets are required and are available in The Center office.

Bridge Teen Center wonders ‘Will it Bowl?’

The Bridge Teen Center, 15555 S. 71st Ct., Orland Park, offers several free events for teens in seventh through 12th grade.

For more information, call (708) 532-0500.

• Will it Bowl? will be held from 7:30 to 10:30 p.m. Friday, Feb. 9. Teens in seventh through 12th grade can take turns bowling all sorts of objects including coconuts and more while taking down the competition and becoming the Bridge Bowling champion.

Live music will be heard from punk rock band The Magnifiers.

Burger 21 will provide the food.

• DIY Beauty: Benefits of Coconut Oil is scheduled from 4 to 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 13. Virgin coconut oil is made from freshly picked coconuts that are cold-

pressed within hours of shelling.

The light, sweet coconut flavor and scent is known to enhance recipes and a person’s body care routine.

Individuals can use it on their skin and hair, as a deodorant and in cooking. Teens will be making a sweet-smelling coconut oil sugar scrub to take home.

• The Science of Chocolate will be explored from 4:15 to 5:15 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 14. This program is for those teens who love chocolate and think about how chocolate is made or why they like it. Chocolate is a complex product that starts as a bean on a tree. Then it is harvested, fermented and mixed with a few ingredients. It takes this specialized process to perfect chocolate.

Chocolate has its own unique com-

TAURUS - Apr 21/May 21 Focus on fun experiences that will pop up this week, Taurus.

They will brighten your mood and make you more inclined to interact with the people you love.

GEMINI - May 22/Jun 21 Gemini, someone you haven’t seen in a while makes an appearance in your life. You don’t know if you should be excited or just a tad cautious about what to expect.

CANCER - Jun 22/Jul 22 Someone at work or home cannot get an accurate read on how you are feeling, Cancer. This may lead to some communication issues. Be as open as possible to avoid confusion.

LEO - Jul 23/Aug 23 Leo, you are called on to be a leader this week, so make sure you do your homework on pertinent issues. This way you can make

McCord hosts silk painting class

A silk painting workshop led

by Carolyn Thomas-Davidoff is set for 1 for 3 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 17 at McCord Gallery and Cultural Center, 9602 W. Creek

VIRGO - Aug 24/Sept 22 Virgo, even when you think you know best, you may want to let others voice their opinions. You never know the value of another’s perspective until you hear it.

LIBRA - Sept 23/Oct 23 Surround yourself with your closest friends and family members, Libra. These are support pillars you can lean on in tough times and the people to laugh alongside when things are good.

SCORPIO - Oct 24/Nov 22 The next few days provide opportunities to relax and have fun, Scorpio. With no pressing matters on the calendar, you can relinquish some responsibilities.

SAGITTARIUS - Nov 23/ Dec 21 Sagittarius, getting your point across may seem like your primary goal, but you can let things simmer for a little bit. Others have things that they want to share as well.

CAPRICORN - Dec 22/Jan 20 Capricorn, romantic notions are

popping into your head lately, and they may only be spurred on by the Valentine’s Day magic. A relationship gets to the next level.

AQUARIUS - Jan 21/Feb 18 Aquarius, you can be the voice of reason if family life has gotten a bit chaotic. You may be called on to sort things out and put a plan in place.

PISCES - Feb 19/Mar 20 Pisces, whether you are attached or not, feelings of love are blooming inside of you. Romance may pervade your daily interactions.

FAMOUS BIRTHDAYS

FEBRUARY 11 Jennifer Aniston, Actress (49) FEBRUARY 12 Tara Strong, Actress (45) FEBRUARY 13 Robbie Williams, Singer (44) FEBRUARY 14 Danai Gurira, Actress (40) FEBRUARY 15 Alex Borstein, Actress (45) FEBRUARY 16 Elizabeth Olsen, Actress (29) FEBRUARY 17 Billie Jo Armstrong, Singer (46)

Orland Park Public Library, 14921 S. Ravina Ave., will be hosting an award-winning blues band at 7 p.m. Thursday, March 15 in room 104.

The band, Donna Herula and Tony Nardiello, are a Chicagobased blues duo that has a passion for performing Delta blues and Chicago blues. This husband and wife duo has performed at blues festivals in the South and Midwest.

Herula was inducted into the Chicago Blues Hall of Fame in October 2016. Herula, known for her slide guitar skills, plays National Steel resonator guitars.

She has been inspired by blues

Stagg Music Boosters looking for crafters

The Stagg High School Music Boosters organization is accepting applications from crafters and artists for the Art for the Season show being held Saturday and Sunday, March 17 and March 18 at the high school, 8015 W. 111th St., Palos Hills.

The cost is $85 per 80 square foot booth space for the two-day run of the show.

For more information or to receive an application, call (708) 974-7520 or (708) 361-8298.

Homemade desserts can be a great way for men and women to show their significant others how much they’re loved on Valentine’s Day. While the following indulgent recipe for “Devil’s Food Layer Cake” from Elisabeth M. Prueitt and Chad Robertson’s “Tartine” (Chronicle Books) takes a little effort, the results are well worth the work.

cream • 1/2 cup plus 1 tablespoon caramel

decisions with confidence.

Orland Library to feature blues duo

men and women from Son House and Memphis Minnie to Johnny Winter.

Herula was the winner of the Chicago Blues Challenge solo-duo category two years in a row and was a semi-finalist at the 2012 International Blues Challenge. She also placed in the top six of the “blues guitarist” category in the 2012 Yamaha Six String Theory International Guitar competition, among competitors from 58 countries.

Nardiello, a singer and guitarist, has gained inspiration from the music of Mississippi John Hurt and Blind Blake. Together, Herula and Nardiello bring harmony, heart and driving rhythm to the blues tradition.

For more information, call (708) 428-5100.

Whip up a devilish indulgence to impress this Valentine’s Day

DEVIL’S FOOD LAYER CAKE Yields 1 10-inch cake; 12 to pound that acts similar to caffeine 16 servings and it contains antioxidants that can be beneficial to a person’s Cake layers health. Teens will participate in a • 13/4 cups all-purpose tasting to discover the difference flour between milk chocolate and dark • 41/2 tablespoons chocolate. cornstarch • Soul Café: Choose to Care • 1 teaspoon baking with Michelle Krepps, LCSW is powder a girls-only program slated from • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda 5 to 6 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 15. • 11/4 cups cocoa powder Participants will decorate a potted • 1 teaspoon salt cactus with inspirational words • 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature and bring it home to care for. Cacti come in all different sizes, shapes • 23/4 cups sugar and colors and they are all beauti- • 5 large eggs ful because of their uniqueness. • 11/4 cups full-fat buttermilk This program celebrates the beauty of diversity. Girls will join in a Chocolate Ganache discussion with other girls about • 24 ounces or 32 ounces what makes them beautiful, all bittersweet chocolate while being creative.

• 3 cups or 4 cups heavy

HOROSCOPES ARIES - Mar 21/Apr 20 It can be difficult to focus with so many things running through your mind, Aries. Give it your best shot, especially at work where it counts the most.

The Town and Country Art League will hold its monthly meeting at 7 p.m. tomorrow, Feb. 9, at the Palos Heights Recreation Center, 6601 W. 127th St. George Ceffalio, an oil painter, will do a demonstration of this media. He has pursued art education with the Palette and Chisel Academy. Ceffalio is a member of the Oil Painters of America.

He conducts oil painting classes and workshops throughout the Chicago area and he teaches at the Brigantine Gallery in Downers Grove.

A competition for members will be held in any style, media or three-dimensional work. The public is invited to attend the meeting. A donation of $5 is asked of guests.

More information about tomorrow’s meeting and the Town and Country Art League can be obtained by calling Vi Elli at (708) 349-1274. Carol Chirafisi is the League president.

Road, Palos Park.

“When you paint elegant habotai silk using non-toxic dyes, and then microwave the scarf before it dries, amazing blends of color are produced,” according to a publicity blurb. “Your one-of-a-kind scarf will be ready to wear home after you dye-set and press it.”

One scarf is provided. An additional blank scarf will be available for purchase, for those who have time to paint a second scarf.

All supplies are included; participants are asked to wear clothing suitable for painting. Cost for the workshop is $40/50 (member/nonmember). Call (708) 671-0648 to reserve a spot.

Preheat the oven to 350 F. Butter and lightly flour the sides of two 9-inch cake pans, knocking out the excess flour. Line the bottom of each pan with parchment paper cut to fit exactly.

To make the cake layers, sift together the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, baking soda, cocoa powder, and salt into a bowl and set aside. In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat the butter on mediumhigh speed until light and creamy.

Slowly add the sugar and continue to beat on the same speed light in color and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition until incorporated before adding the next egg. Stop the mixer and scrape down the sides of the bowl with the rubber spatula. With the mixer on low speed, add the flour mixture in 3 equal batches alternately with the buttermilk in 2 batches, beginning and ending with the flour mixture.

Stop the mixer, scrape down the sides of the bowl and then mix again for another few seconds.

Divide the cake batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.

Bake until the top springs back when lightly touched or a cake tester inserted in the center comes out clean, about 45 minutes. Let the cakes cool completely in the

pans on a wire rack.

When the cakes are cool, turn them out by inverting the pans, and then turn the cakes upright.

Using a serrated knife, slice off the domed portion from the top of each cake to make the tops flat.

If you want to decorate the cake with crumbs as described in the headnote, reserve the slices for making the crumbs.

To make the crumbs, preheat the oven to 250 F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a nonstick liner. Break up the cake slices and spread on the lined baking sheet. Place in the oven and toast until completely dry, about 1 hour. Let cool completely, then transfer to a food processor or blender and process until finely ground. Sift the crumbs through a medium-mesh sieve. (Don’t use a sieve with fine mesh or the crumbs won’t pass through.) Set aside.

To make the ganache, place the chocolate in a heatproof bowl, using the smaller amount of each ingredient if you will be decorating the cake with crumbs and the larger amount if you will not.

Bring the cream to just under a boil in a small saucepan. Pour the cream over the chocolate. Let the mixture sit for a few minutes without stirring until the chocolate is partially melted, and then stir with a rubber spatula until smooth and shiny.

To assemble the cake, split each cake into 2 layers to make 4 layers in all. Transfer 1 layer

to a serving plate. Using an offset spatula, spread 3 tablespoons of the caramel evenly over the cake layer. Spread a thin layer of ganache (about 1/4-inch thick) over the caramel. Top with a second cake layer, and again spread with 3 tablespoons caramel and then a thin layer of ganache. Top with the fourth cake layer. Refrigerate the cake until the center seems firm, 1 to 2 hours. Cover the remaining ganache with plastic wrap and leave at room temperature for finishing the cake.

Remove the cake from the refrigerator. Using the rest of the ganache, frost the top and sides of the cake with the offset spatula.

If you are going to coat the cake with the toasted cake crumbs, the cake must be evenly frosted and the ganache must be soft enough for the crumbs to adhere. If the ganache has hardened, use a kitchen torch to soften it slightly, or put the whole cake into a 400 F oven for 10 seconds or so, just until the chocolate looks shiny. Sprinkle the crumbs evenly over the top of the cake, then tilt and turn the cake so that they spill over the sides, adhering to them as they fall. If you are using only the ganache and not the crumbs, the ganache will be thicker on both the top and sides.

Serve the cake at room temperature. To store, cover tightly and keep in a cool place for up to 4 days. It is not necessary to keep this cake in the refrigerator.

OUT & ABOUT

The Regional News • The Reporter

Thursday, February 8, 2018

Southwest • Section 2, Page 8

Serving Oak Lawn & SOuthweSt Side FOr Over 60 YearS

Winterfest at Lake Katherine and Mother Nature’s snowfall missed one another by only a day but the lack of white stuff didn’t deter more than 400 children and adults from enjoying a variety of activities in the cold weather.

Clockwise from top: Candle-making drew a steady stream of children fireside to alternately dip a weighted string into molten wax, then cold water, repeating the process as many times as desired until a roughly shaped candle was formed. Other activities at Winterfest included hayrides, marshmallow toasting, crafts, face-painting, a petting zoo and a rescue demonstration in the icy lake water by the Palos Heights Fire Protection District. Adalyn Zubaty, 8, doesn’t let the absence of snow stop her from getting a feel for snowshoes at Winterfest. Mack, 6, shows how to work a hula hoop even while wearing winter clothes. Mack’s mother requested his last name not be published, but we couldn’t resist capturing his considerable talent.

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Do dessert at home this Valentine’s Day Dining out is a Valentine’s Day tradition. Couples new and old typically make Valentine’s Day into date night at nice restaurants, making this holiday that much more special.

Couples who want to add a special twist to Valentine’s Day date night can enjoy a nice meal out before returning home for some homemade dessert. Whether couples prepare it together or surprise their significant others, the following recipe for “Coffee Crisp” from Bob Blumer’s “Surreal Gourmet Bites” (Chronicle Books) can make for the perfect ending to a Valentine’s Day date night.

COFFEE CRISP Yields 12 bites • 6 egg yolks • 8 tablespoons sugar • 2 tablespoons instant espresso or coffee powder • 11/2 cups heavy cream • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract Preheat the oven to 300 F. In a medium bowl, whisk egg yolks and 6 tablespoons of the sugar for 1 minute, or until smooth

and pale yellow in color. Reserve.

In a second medium bowl, add espresso granules and 1/4 cup of the cream. Whisk until smooth, then add remaining cream and vanilla, and whisk until well blended.

Very gently, fold espresso cream mixture into egg yolks.

Use a ladle to pour custard mixture into espresso cups, filling them three-fourths of the way to the top.

Place cups in a baking dish or roasting pan and transfer to oven.

Fill a pitcher with warm tap water.

Before closing oven door, pour water into pan (but not into the cups themselves!) until it reaches halfway up the sides of the cups.

Bake for 40 minutes, or until the custards jiggle just slightly when you shake the pan. Remove pan from oven and leave out on counter, allowing the residual heat of the water to finish the cooking process.

When custards have fully solidified, refrigerate for 2 hours Just before serving, sprinkle 1/2 teaspoon of sugar evenly overtop each custard. Use a small blowtorch to caramelize the sugar. Alternatively, place cups 1 inch below oven broiler under a watchful eye for approximately 2 minutes, or until sugar caramelizes.

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