Regional news 3 16 17

St. Xavier University women’s basketball team falls in national championship game: SPORTS

$1 Newsstand

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

Thursday, March 16, 2017

Serving Palos, Orland and Worth townships and neighboring communities

76th Year, NO. 11 • 2 Sections

New cinemas to be featured in Orland Park Residential, commercial developments booming

By Dermot Connolly Staff Reporter

Mayor Dan McLaughlin has revealed that new upscale cinemas are likely to be developed in the village. McLaughlin hinted at the pending development during a State of the Village address last Thursday that was also designed to build support for a new sports complex.

Assistant Village Manager Joe La Margo said this week that the theater proposal will be voted on during the Orland Park Village Board meeting on Monday, March 20, when representatives of the Photo by Anthony Caciopo “upscale” theater company will Paul Petraski of the Public Works Department loads a salt spreader in preparation for the snowstorm that hit the area Tuesday. Employee compensation, be present to discuss their plans. vehicles and equipment, seasonal supplies and the city’s physical plant are all part of the 2017 Palos Heights budget.

More than 400 people attended the State of the Village presentation held in Sandburg High

Heights approves balanced 2017 budget

By Anthony Caciopo Regional News Editor

The Palos Heights city council has approved a balanced $11.8 million spending plan for 2017 that provides for more than a million dollars in infrastructure improvements.

Approved last week at the most recent council meeting, the new budget is a blueprint for the coming year in this community of almost 13,000 residents.

Mayor Bob Straz and City Administrator Dan Nisavic met separately with The Regional News this past week to offer insight into the budget.

“It’s not real razzle-dazzle,” said Straz when asked about highlights for 2017. “We’re going to do $300,000 to $400,000 in road improvements on our side streets.

We do that every year. Over a period of 15 to 20 years, all the streets in town will get redone.”

The city has 43 miles of streets.

This year, like previous years, a good portion of capital expenditures will be spent on aspects of city operations that are unseen, but vital.

“We’ll spend quite a bit of money, maybe a million dollars, in capital improvements in water and sewer enhancements,” Straz explained. ‘It’s not going to be visibly improving anything, but it’s necessary. This town is more than 50 years old and some (underground) pipes are starting to

crumble.”

Straz explained that the water and sewer fund is called an enterprise fund, separate from the general fund.

“It’s mostly self-sustaining,” he said, based on revenue the city takes in and then bills residents.

In addition to underground piping, water and sewer infrastructure includes the city’s pumping station and four water towers.

Capital improvements that

By Anthony Caciopo Regional News Editor

Members of the Palos Park Woman’s Club won’t supply as many Easter baskets to needy children this year as in past years, and that’s a good thing.

With the sounds of cellophane crackling and the voices of almost 40 industrious women carrying across the room, club president Lucy Crocilla explained the happy circumstance.

“Every year we work with Palos Township and they tell us how many children are in need, and this year there were 28,” she said.

“It was down quite a bit from last year because people became employed and we didn’t have to provide as much.”

Twenty-eight children, 28 gift baskets. The room buzzed with activity as each basket came together carefully. Multiple hands on each basket contributed toys, treats, games and more until the entire package was ready to wrapped in clear plastic, topped with a pink or purple ribbon. Upon completion, each basket was worthy of display in a retail catalog.

It’s an annual club effort so

Per Month††

Correspondent

said. “This referendum came about because we just want to see what the community thinks about the idea. It’s non-binding but if we get a positive response, then at least we can start taking the next steps on this.”

The general plan behind the referendum is to construct a large, artificial-turf field with bleachers and possibly restroom and concession facilities which could be used to host tournaments and possibly playoff or championship games for soccer, football, and lacrosse leagues. No location for the suggested facility has been selected yet, though it would be installed on existing village park land. McLaughlin said that several locations are being considered.

See FACILITY, Page 2

Photo by Anthony Caciopo

long-running that no one in the room could quite remember its date of origin. One of the members said it has been taking place more than 20 years; another member guessed as many as 40. In fact,

319

$

By Jessie Molloy

Julie Pietrzak (left) and Linda Nyberg put the finishing touches on an Easter basket donation of toys, games and gifts.

New 2017 Dodge Durango

Lease for

See CINEMAS, Page 2

Orland Park voters to decide next step for proposed sports facility

A proposed outdoor multi-purpose sports facility may become a reality following a referendum vote April 4.

Orland Park Mayor Dan McLaughlin hosted an informational meeting at the village Civic Center See HEIGHTS, Page 2 Monday night about the Sports Center Referendum, championed by local youth sports organizations.

The referendum is for the “creation of an outdoor multi-purpose sports facility” and, according to McLaughlin, it has his support as well as the support of the other trustees.

“I’m very positive about this moving forward,” McLaughlin

Palos Park women fill Easter baskets with gifts and love

School’s Performing Arts Center.13300 S. LaGrange Road. Preceding the mayor’s address was a reception and art exhibit in the lobby, featuring performances by the Sandburg String Quartet and Jazz Combo. Culinary arts students also prepared and served an assortment of hors d’oeuvres.

School District 230 Superintendent James Gay introduced McLaughlin, who began by saying that the $147 million budget for 2017 is the 23rd annual balanced budget. It is also the sixth consecutive year in which the village did not raise its tax levy.

The mayor also pointed to FBI crime statistics that he said shows “we have one of the lowest crime levels in the country.” He said

the charitable undertaking doesn’t even have an official name.

“We just call it the Easter basket project,” said Crocilla. “I can’t even tell you how long this project has been in effect but everyone

has a lot of fun with it.”

For at least 20…or maybe 40… or maybe even longer, the tradition had been the same.

See BASKETS, Page 2

Photo by Jessie Molloy

Brian Cooper, soccer and baseball director of the Orland Youth Association, hands out yard signs to residents attending Monday’s referendum meeting.

8355 W. 159TH ST., TINLEY PARK | 888-835-5933 SALES HOURS: Mon-Fri 7:30am-8pm, Sat 7:30am-6pm SERVICE HOURS: Mon-Thurs 7:30am-8pm, Fri 7:30am-6pm, Sat 7:30am-4pm

BETTENHAUSENAUTO.COM Let Our Brand Managers and their staff Change Your Mind about Car Buying

††Lease a new 2017 Durango SXT AWD for $319 per month, plus tax, title, license and doc fee. $2999 due at signing. 36 month closed end lease with 10,000 miles maximum per year. .20 cents for every mile over 30,000 at conclusion of lease.

Lesses’ responsible for all maintenance and insurance throughout term of lease. Not all consumers will qualify as determined by financial lender. See dealer for complete details. Dealer not responsible for typographical or printing errors. Images are for display purposes only and may not represent vehicle purchased.

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

2 Thursday, March 16, 2017

The Regional News

POLICE BLOTTER: ORLAND PARK Charge Oak Forest man with DUI Orland Park police charged Oak Forest resident Arnulfo Alameda-Sanchez, 38, with DUI after they curbed his car in the 15100 block of South Teebrook Drive at 3:27 a.m. Feb. 23. The vehicle was towed and impounded, and Alameda-Sanchez is due in court in Bridgeview on March 28. His passenger, Tinley Park resident Jose E. Santamaria-Sanchez, 37, was taken into custody after police reportedly learned that he was wanted on warrants from Orland Hills and Cook County.

Gas station employee admits swiping lottery tickets, police say Police charged Kankakee resident Brian P. Walker, 45, with felony theft after he allegedly stole $750 worth of instant lottery tickets from his employer, a

gas station in the 9300 block of West 159th Street. Police said that store surveillance footage showed Walker taking the tickets out of a drawer on Feb. 18. Gas station representatives contacted police four days later, and Walker reportedly confessed to the crime.

Police added that Walker was wanted on a fraud warrant from Pike County.

Charged with shoplifting, pushing security guard Hickory Hills resident Jeremy L. Lentz, 25, was charged with retail theft and aggravated battery to a private security officer after he allegedly stole four men’s shirts from a department store in Orland Square Mall at 7:11 p.m. Feb. 24. The battery charge was added after Lentz allegedly pushed a security guard trying to apprehend him. The police report did not indicate a court date.

Heights Concealed swag in stroller, police say Calumet City resident Jose Raul Hernandez, 44, and Chicago resident Yessica Patino-Medina, 31, were charged with retail theft after they allegedly stole $763 worth of merchandise from two stores in Orland Square Mall at 7:40 p.m. Feb. 21. Police said the pair stashed the swag in a baby stroller and that Hernandez was holding a one-year-old child. Both were due at a hearing at the Orland Park Civic Center on Tuesday.

Oak Lawn teen charged with shoplifting Police charged Oak Lawn resident Margaret M. O’Shea, 18, with retail theft after she allegedly stole $60 worth of clothing from a department store on Orland Park Place at 7:02 p.m. Feb. 23. O’Shea was due at a hearing at the Orland Park Civic Center on Tuesday.

Continued from Page 1 residents will be able to see, enjoy and benefit from this year are varied.

“We’re going to finish the sidewalks on Harlem Avenue,” said Straz. “On 127th Street, across from the Recreation Center, we’re going to put in a crossing path.

There will be additional signage in town, directional signs for different points of interest. The whole idea is to upgrade the entire Harlem Avenue area.”

Coming next year, but in the planning stage for 2017, is construction of a multi-purpose path on the west side of Ridgeland Avenue connecting the Cal-Sag Trail on the north to the Tinley Creek recreation path at 135th Street.

Other capital improvement expenditures for 2017 include city parks, landscaping, the demolition of a building at 12221 S. Harlem and subsequent construction of a parking area. The city is also responsible for capital improvements at Lake Katherine.

“The Lake Katherine Board is charged with running the operation, but the capital improvements fall upon the city,” said Straz.

The entire budget-making process in Palos Heights is one of “grassroots up,” as described by Straz.

“Dan (Nisavic) sits down with all the department heads, and they come up with their budgets,” he said. “They then meet with the aldermen, who share their ideas and review.

“We ask ‘What are you going to need next year?’ We ask the Recreation Department what they will need as far as staffing. What are we going to need as far as the physical plant? Same with the Public Works Department.

Do they need more people? It (budget) grows from the grassroots up, instead of saying ‘Here it is, down’.”

“Some of the things are statutory and we can’t change” the mayor continued. “The police pension contributions are set. Our police officers are union employees as are public works people, so those expenses are contractual.”

Straz said that City Administrator Nisavic handles negotiations for different aspects of city operations.

“Dan negotiates the health insurance for the city. We put a number in the budget; we think it’s going to go up 10 percent.

Hopefully, we may get a little bit under that,” said Straz.

Nisavic said “We’re right in the middle of that process now. We have a broker that will shop all the major health insurance companies every year. We use the completion to drive down healthcare costs.”

The City of Palos Heights em-

ploys 65-70 full-time staff and a couple hundred more part-timers, according to Nisavic. “The Recreation Department uses a lot of summer help,” he said.

In addition to the capital improvements detailed by Straz, Nisavic added “We have a recreation project to do. We acquired land from the school district to build the Recreation Center and part of that process was that we would improve a park behind the building,” he said.

“We’re going to create a playground and a ball field and a shelter area there. We just went out for bids,” said Nisavic.

The city obtains revenue from a variety of sources, as detailed by Straz and Nisavic, including real estate tax, sales tax, state income tax, utility fees, motor fuel tax, permits and vehicle stickers.

“We’re down a little bit in real estate tax revenue from last year because proper values were, down,” said Straz. “But in this year’s budget we built in about $300,000 to $400,000 of additional income because of the Spectrum (senior living) project.”

The Spectrum project will be built on the northeast corner of Harlem and College Drive (Route 83).

“Part of that (fee income projection) will be spent doing inspections and plan review,” he said, “but that’s a source of income for us.”

Photo by Dermot Connolly

Mike Lorenzo (left), owner of Papa Joe’s Italian Restaurant, receives the 2016 Business of the Year Award from Orland Park Mayor Dan McLaughlin during McLaughlin’s State of the Village address last Thursday at Sandburg High School. Papa Joe’s is located at 14459 S. Lagrange Rd., Orland Park.

Cinemas

Continued from Page 1 the village is ranked 13 out of the state’s 50 safest communities, according to the FBI crime statistics.

“The village also saw tremendous growth and development in 2016,” said McLaughlin, citing the new University of Chicago Medical Center that opened last fall at 143rd Street and LaGrange Road as one of the biggest success stories. He pointed out that 300 new businesses opened in the last three years, and 674 in the last five years, including 90 new businesses in 2016 alone.

“There is only a 5.09 percent vacancy rate in our commercial properties, compared to 20.8 percent for the Chicago metropolitan statistical area,” said the mayor.

He noted that residential development is booming once again also, with the Townhomes of Colette Highlands among the new subdivisions scheduled to be built this year.

“I see the Ninety7Fifty luxury apartment building now has a waiting list,” he added.

The mayor cited the village’s many summer festivals, concerts and other attractions as some of

Facility

Continued from Page 1 “We’ve been hearing for the last few years that some of our fields aren’t in as great a shape as they should be and that our kids are used to,” McLaughlin said. “In addition to voting on this new facility, we are currently in the process of improving the fields that have fallen below our standards and getting them back up to snuff.”

The village of Orland Park currently has one football field, three lacrosse fields, 23 soccer fields and 33 baseball/softball fields across 14 of its 63 parks. Some of the issues the fields have had in recent years include drainage problems and increasingly rough surfaces from constant use.

The groups which organized Monday’s meeting, and are primarily lobbying for the referendum to pass, are the local sports teams: The Orland Park Pioneers football team, the boys and girls chapters of the Orland Youth Association (OYA) and the Orland Soccer Club, whose leadership believes the deteriorating quality

the reasons drawing people to Orland Park.

“You no longer have to leave Orland Park to find entertainment,” he said.

“We have 63 parks and 329 acres of open space and 25 miles of off-street walking and biking paths among the amenities that make Orland Park a strong, safe and growing community. Every year we set money aside to add more paths. We want to eventually connect the whole village,” he said.

Looking toward the future, in addition to getting a new movie theater, McLaughlin said that completion of the Interstate 80 Corridor Plan is a main goal of the administration. The regional mixed-use campus bordered

by I-80, LaGrange Road, 107th Avenue and north of Orland Parkway is intended to develop as a high-intensity, inter-connected district with commercial and residential properties among a network of public plazas.

McLaughlin concluded his remarks by pointing to the newly minted village symbol, an O set into a green octagon shape, saying it was a fitting symbol because Orland Park indeed is “gem of the prairie.”

Before the night was over, Mc-

Laughlin presented awards to two volunteers of the year, and to Mike Lorenzo, whose family-owned Papa Joe’s was named business of the year. The Lorenzo family was honored for their involvement and generosity with community events, especially Special People’s Day held during Orland Days.

Grace Rost, a senior at Providence Catholic High School, received a student volunteer of the year award for, among other things, starting the Chicago Bookworm Foundation, dedicated to bettering the lives of disadvantaged children in underfunded school systems. In addition to earning a 4.54 GPA, she also gives more than 100 volunteer hours of service each year.

“With that resume, you should be 60 years old,” McLaughlin joked with Grace.

The adult volunteer of the year was Dan McMillan, chief financial officer of Rizza Enterprises who has raised more than $350,000 for local groups with his annual Gridiron Golf Outing. He is very involved with St. Baldrick’s, the Pioneer Football team, Palos Village Players and is known for playing Santa at community events.

of the fields has played a role in their inability to host tournaments or championship games in recent years.

In addition to being a benefit for the children involved in the organizations, the groups and McLaughlin said they believe bringing larger sporting competitions to the village will draw revenue into village businesses from families of competing teams.

No cost has yet to be set for the planned complex, though McLaughlin said estimates for the field alone are between $300,000 and $400,000. The mayor said the village plans to defer this cost by going to local businesses and corporations to seek sponsorship, and possibly a naming rights purchase, for the “stadium.”

“The idea is to have the taxpayers pay as little as possible for this,” McLaughlin said. “Hopefully our biggest bill on this whole project will be the annual maintenance on it, which will be reduced because of the artificial turf. It would be great to have a field that is always in great shape.”

When McLaughlin had finished taking questions a few representatives from the teams stepped

forward to speak.

“This is important to all of us and a lot of people in the village who have young kids playing sports like we do,” said Brian Cooper, OYA director of boys soccer and baseball. “A bunch of us grew up playing on Orland Park fields and we want our kids to have that same great experience and to be able to host tournaments and stuff, but we need the village’s help to do this.”

Dan McMillan, a coach for the Orland Park Pioneers, also gave his thanks to the support of all the residents who came out to attend the meeting as well as to the board members for getting the initiative on the ballot. “This is going to be great for the kids. I encourage you all to, please, talk to your neighbors and put out yard signs to support this referendum.”

If the referendum passes on April 4 the village board will move ahead with planning the new field, with an anticipated availability date of summer, 2018. Either way, the village plans to move forward with the park improvement plans on the existing fields for the 2017 summer seasons.

Photos by Anthony Caciopo

Members of the Palos Park Woman’s Club display this year’s completed Easter basket project. The baskets will soon be on their way to households in Palos Township.

Baskets

Continued from Page 1 “We provided everything,” explained Crocilla. “The club would pay for the baskets, the candies and the outer fixings and the members provided the gifts for the insides.”

That changed a couple of years ago, however, with a helping hand from outside the ranks of the club members.

“Last year, Julie Pietrzak, the president of the Palos Heights Garden Club came forward and said she’d like to provide the baskets and the cellophane wrap,” said Crocilla.

Another benefactor to the effort is the daughter of club member Alma Fremarek, Michelle Maxia, who operates Toy Box Connection in Orland Park. Toy Box Connection contributed games, toys, stuffed animals and other goodies for each basket.

“We’re a non-profit that connects with other non-profits,” explains Maxia. “We love to help add to what these groups already do in order to bring that much more joy to children in need.

“I think the members of the Palos Park Woman’s Club are amazing,” Maxia said. “They’re not just going out and buying stuff, but they’re creating something with love.”

Some club members are aware of Maxia’s effort with Toy Box Connection.

“She gives to needy kids all year ‘round,” said club member Kathy Close as she worked on one of the 28 baskets. “She’s done a marvelous job of helping our kids.”

The gestures were so well-received a year ago that Pietrzak and Toy Box Connection pitched in again this year.

That generosity hasn’t diminished the contributions to each basket made by club members, however.

“The suggested purchase limit is $15, but most members spent way more than that,” said Crocilla.

Each member assigned to a child knew the age and gender of the recipient, which was crucial for shopping for just the right items.

With relatively few gift baskets requested his year, and with many more than 28 club members willing to shop and put together a basket, the assembly process took

Phyllis Guentner assembles one of 28 Easter baskets destined for children in need living in Palos Township.

on a collaborative, workshop-style air in the meeting room at the Palos Park Presbyterian Community Church, 12312 S. 88th Ave. At least 10 folding picnic-type tables were set up as workstations.

As the basket assembly began to wind down, the aroma of an

Irish-themed luncheon began to fill the air.

“This is a blast, a lot of fun,” said Kathy Cane, putting on the final touches of a gift basket. “I hope the kids will be as pleased getting the baskets as we are wrapping them up.”

D IDSI SCCOOUUNN TT RRAT ATEESS withoutdiscount discount service. without service.

It’s accident no accidentmore morepeople people trust It’s no trustState StateFarm.

Farm.

ErikR RNelson, Nelson, Agent Agent Erik 10200S SRoberts Roberts Road Road 10200 Palos Hills, Palos Hills,ILIL60465-1539 60465-1539 Bus: Bus:708-430-7575 708-430-7575 erik.nelson.hr35@statefarm.com erik.nelson.hr35@statefarm.com

P040036 P040036 02/04 02/04

StateFarm FarmMutual Mutual Automobile Insurance Company in NJ), Bloomington, IL State Automobile Insurance Company (Not in (Not NJ), Bloomington, IL

The Regional News

Thursday, March 16, 2017

Roadside trash in Palos Park gets a ‘Rid Litter Day’

By Michael Gilbert Correspondent

Even a village known for its rural splendor is not immune to unsightly trash being left in public places.

“Sadly there is a lot of litter in the village,” Commissioner Nicole Milovich-Walters said. “It is especially noticeable on the heavily traveled roads like McCarthy, 119th Street, Southwest Highway and 86th Avenue. People just seem to throw stuff out their windows when they are driving.

It’s disgusting and sad.”

In an effort to remove some of that unsightly rubbish, Milovich-Walters told the council and a handful of residents Monday the Palos Park Beautification Committee is once again organizing Rid Litter Day in Palos Park. This year’s event is to be held at 9 a.m. on Saturday, April 22. Those interested in participating should arrive at the Palos Park Recreation Center, 8901 W. 123rd St., to pick up garbage bags and gloves. Attendees will also be given a list of roads in particular need of cleaning, but Milovich-Walters said residents are welcome to clean any street they want.

The event, which is celebrating its 20th anniversary this year, has been responsible for removing more than two tons of litter in Palos Park. Several dozen residents have been known to participate in past years, Milovich-Walters said.

“There have been years where we’ve had 50 or so people show up,” she said. “We usually have a nice little turnout, and these are all people who are volunteering their time. They are not getting paid for this.”

Those coming out to remove refuse from the roadway are both young and old. Milovich-Walters noted that while the event draws many adults, several members of area scouting organizations, including a large contingent from Girl Scout Troop 60349, partake in the clean-up project, she said.

“I love the event every year,” Milovich-Walters said. “I take my Girl Scout troop out there rain or shine. It’s a great sense of accomplishment when you see all the garbage bags you’ve filled up.”

While the event may be scheduled for the morning of April 22, Mayor John Mahoney mentioned picking up litter does not need to limited to that sole timeframe. He encouraged those who are unable to participate in the morning to pick up garbage when it is more convenient that weekend.

“We are not asking that you do it any specific time just that weekend,” Mahoney said. “Pick as small an area as you want — even if it is just your block. It’s maximum participation that we are looking for. We are not looking for one person to clean up all of Palos Park.”

Those interested in participating in the event should gather at the Recreation Center at 9 a.m. For more information, call the Kap-

tur Administrative Center at (708) 671-3700.

In other news, Commissioner Dan Polk told the council and a handful of residents in attendance at the meeting that the police department will once again be offering free bicycle helmets to children in Palos Park as part of the National Children-N-Safety program.

The helmets are expected to be available at the police department, 8999 W. 123rd St., beginning in mid-April, Polk said. The department has been offering the helmets for around 15 years, Police Chief Joe Miller said.

“Each year we order about 60 [helmets] and we give most all of them out,” Miller said. “Some years we’ve had to reorder.”

The program seems to work as one would be hard-pressed to find a youth riding a bike in Palos Park without the protective gear.

“In Palos Park very rarely do you see a kid not wearing a bike helmet,” Miller said. “We think that’s because of this program, and also because parents are talking to their children about safety.

“Head injuries and falls from bicycles are often times the main reason children visit emergency rooms during the summer months.

We hope by issuing the helmets we can prevent head injuries to children riding bicycles.”

Those interested in obtaining a free children’s helmet are encouraged to contact Miller at (708) 671-3770.

Gaelic Park offers activities to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day A full day of activities will be held in honor of Ireland’s patron saint, St. Patrick, on Friday, March 17 at Gaelic Park, 6119 W. 147th St., Oak Forest.

The St. Patrick’s Day Luncheon will feature beef and cabbage.

Entertainment will be provided

by Joe Cullen along with an exhibition of Irish step dancing by the Cross Keys School of Irish Dancing. Doors open at noon and lunch is served at 1 p.m. Tickets are $25 and must be purchased in advance.

The Carraig Irish Pub will open for lunch at 11 a.m. offering corned beef and cabbage lunches, shepherd’s pie, Irish sausage, fish and chips and more. The Carraig offers a selection of refreshments. Entertainment will be provided by Billy O’Donohue and Jimmy Keane starting at 2.30 p.m., followed by Gerard Haughey at 6.30 p.m.

The Tara Room will provide a family atmosphere including children’s entertainment featuring Jan’s Clans Puppet Show at 4.30 p.m. and Magic Matt at 5 p.m.

3

Winter wonderland The first measurable snow in the Chicago area since Dec. 17 area hit the Palos-Orland communities with at least five inches Monday night and Tuesday. Enjoying a walk in a winter wonderland (above) on 126th Street near 84th Avenue in Palos Park, sisters Linda Evon (left) and Laura Nash are accompanied by their dogs Skylar and Luigi.

Mark Schultz (right) of Larkspur Lane in Orland Park clears his driveway with the help of a snow blower while Dan Heimerdinger (below) heaves snow the old-fashioned way on 73rd Court in Palos Heights. He was shoveling for a neighbor.

Photos by Anthony Caciopo

Dancers from The Lavin Cassidy School of Irish Dancing will perform at 6.30 p.m., followed by musical performer Joe Monahan.

Admission is free. A hot food buffet will be available for purchase.

The Emerald Room will feature Cullen at 6.30 p.m., with dancers from McCormack Fay School of Irish Dance performing at 7.30 p.m. More information can be obtained by calling Gaelic Park, (708) 687-9323, or visit the website at www.chicagogaelicpark.org.

Rush opposes committee’s vote to repeal Affordable Care Act South Side Irish queen

Photo by Joe Boyle

Shannon Zofkie, the South Side Irish parade queen for 2017, smiles as she passes 103rd and Western Avenue during the annual event Sunday afternoon in Chicago.

AREA PROPERTY TRANSFERS Following are the property transfers in the area, according to the latest report, as received from the Cook County Recorder of Deeds Office. The Regional News does not attempt to correct errors made by that office.

Orland Park Chicagoland Home Remdl LLC-Homes to Torres Jose L, 8842 Fairway Dr, $222,000; Bruketta Samuel to Tanevski Blagoj, 15700 Orlan Brook Dr, Unit #171, $130,000; Pawlicki Robert E Tr to Bovenkerk Bruce, 8819 Maple Ave, $295,000; Hecht Robert A to Ayyad Mohammed Alrahman, 8821 163rd St, $138,000; MTGLQ Inv LP to Gashi Nexhmi, 14785 Lakeview Dr, Unit #104, $62,000; Smith William D to Culbreth

Dawn M, 15110 109th Ave, $184,000; Standard B&T Co Tr to Salah Mohammad, 9090 Carlisle Ln, $175,500; Fannie Mae to Balziene Raimonda, 7306 Evergreen Dr, Unit #51B, $86,000; Markett Kristen M to Abelseth Ryan E, 13533 84th Ave, $251,000; Rompala Thadd W to Schillaci Leonard C, 17811 Bernard Dr, Unit #152, $230,000; Brown William R to Thompson Nicholas, 11647 Brookview Ln, $290,000; Sotiropoulos Dimitrios to Sotiropoulos Anastasios, 15749 Chesterfield Ln, $150,000; Pratt Mary Beth to Rutka Krystyna, 7335 157th St, Unit #73351C, $60,000; Gondek Michael F to Doherty Robert J, 11913 Durnee Ln, $185,000.

Palos Heights Claus Daniel A to Reif Nancy M, 13030 S 70th Ct, $275,000; First Midwest Bk Tr to First Midwest Bk Tr, 12503 S 73rd Ct, $160,000; Myslinski Trista A to Modschiedler Brian, 12960 S Forestview Rd, $305,000; Polinski Slawomir to Zavala Ricardo, 12873 S Cedar Ln, $395,000.

Palos Park Doyles Const & Design Inc to Valcarcel Anthony J, 12100 S 86th Ave, $515,500; Wittenberg Jeff A to Budz Anna D, 12621 Regina Ln, $245,000; Kramer Raymond C Tr to Strokovas Arturas, 9755 Creek Rd, Unit #E1L22, $85,000; Thomas P Casey Trust to Morris Richard Jr, 1 St. Moritz Dr, Unit #18201, $145,000.

Cong. Bobby Rush (D-1st) said he opposes the House and Energy Committee passing the Republican’s “Pay More for Less” repeal bill in an effort to upend the Affordable Care Act. “This draconian effort by the Republicans has a long way to go before this becomes law of the land,” Rush said. “Although “Pay More for Less” passed the Energy and Commerce Committee (and will likely get through the Budget Committee), this assault on American health care will face a difficult challenge when it reaches the full House of Representatives.

“The American people will not sit by and have their rights reduced while the wealthy secure increases,” added Rush. “Elimination of the Medicaid expansion will strip medical coverage from 637,056 Illinoisans and $3.2 billion in federal Medicaid funding from the State of Illinois. Abolishing the Medicaid expansion will prevent 55,000 of my constituents from accessing affordable health care and will have a detrimental impact on them and our society as a whole.

These once-again newly uninsured individuals will be forced to rely on the already overburdened community health centers and other public health providers where the cost will ultimately be borne by every other American.”

The congressman said he would oppose any legislation that punishes poor people, the elderly, the

disabled, women and children.

Illinois ranked 48th in receiving Medicaid matching funds, with

more than 212,022 enrollees in the 1st Congressional District alone, Rush said.

IT’S TAX TIME ARE YOU READY? CALL A PROFESSIONAL

LIST YOUR TAX SERVICES HERE! Call 708-448-4000 and ask for Donna Brown for pricing, sizes and more information!

4 Thursday, March 16, 2017

Lipinski says ‘Buy American’ bill is needed to boost jobs

OPINION

The Regional News

By Cong. Dan Lipinski (D-3rd) When President Trump mentioned his plan for a transportation infrastructure program in his speech to a joint session of Congress, he said, “we will follow two simple rules: Buy American and Hire American.” But these simple rules are often violated not only on transportation projects but with other federal spending, and that will continue unless and until we change our laws.

That’s because our current Buy American laws are full of too many loopholes, and too much federal spending is not covered by these laws. That is why I have introduced the comprehensive, bipartisan Buy American Improvement Act, H.R. 904, to ensure that in the future the federal government really does “buy American and hire American” when spending taxpayer dollars, thereby helping create good-paying middle-class jobs.

The original Buy American Act that required the federal government to give preference to American products when making purchases became law in 1933. Buy America was introduced in the Surface Transportation Assistance Act in 1983 to place domestic content requirements on projects funded by the federal government but administered by states and local governments.

But these laws don’t always work, so my bill does three things: (1) extends domestic content requirements to federal programs that currently are not covered, (2) closes loopholes that make it too easy for federal agencies to get waivers and avoid these requirement, and (3) makes Buy American waiver requests transparent so American companies know where they can sell to the federal government.

Among the loopholes that would be closed by this bill include breaking up a large project into smaller segments in order to avoid Buy American requirements. This is what happened when the state of California took federal money for the San Francisco-Oakland Bay Bridge rebuild project, applied the federal money to one segment of the project, and then bought pre-made pieces of the bridge for the non-federal portion from China.

This practice would be stopped by this bill. In addition, Buy American requirements currently do not apply to some purchases made to be used overseas. This waiver would no longer be automatic.

Some of the programs that Buy America requirements would be extended to under this bill include the Federal Highway Administration’s Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality Improvement program, the Rural Water Supply program, Community Development Block Grants, grants under the Economic Development Administration, and the spending of Passenger Facility Charges by airports. Also included are projects funded by the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund, which was a contentious issue in the debate about funding for Flint, Michigan, drinking water last year.

Finally, the transparency requirements help ensure that if there are companies that can put Americans to work making products that federal money was going to be spent on to import, they will be able to easily find the opportunities. For example, the bill would require a Federal Register notice and 15-day comment period for any waiver request from Buy America requirements, better enabling American companies to identify business opportunities. This would have prevented an incident in 2013 when an American manufacturer that produces converted paratransit buses belatedly found out that the Federal Transit Administration had granted a waiver so that these buses could be purchased from a foreign supplier.

While so many Americans are still struggling to find good jobs and our manufacturing sector continues to need a boost, it is only common sense to ensure that taxpayer dollars put Americans to work rather than those outside our borders. The Buy American Improvement Act will do just that. I look forward to working with my colleagues from both sides of the aisle on this key legislation that will ensure that we do what the president said, “Buy American and Hire American,” and help create good jobs for middle-class Americans.

New policy for letters The Regional News encourages letters to the editor. Local content is strongly suggested and will be preferred. Letters must be signed and the name of the writer will be published. Include your address and telephone number for verification purposes.

Limit letters to no more than 300 words. We reserve the right to edit letters.

E-mail letters to: theregional@comcast.net

Consumers ripped off by cell phone companies In December, I decided to switch cell phones from Sprint to T-Mobile. I was upset over Sprint’s TV ads promoting a low-cost service for “new customers.”

For $90 ($22.50 each) you could get four phones with unlimited data from Sprint. Sprint spent a fortune to lure away the “Test Man” from Verizon (Paul Marcarelli) to do their new “new customer” commercials.

I’ve been a loyal Sprint customer for 15 years, but the discount didn’t apply to me.

I was paying $276 a month for my four cell phones and unlimited data.

We take our cell phone services for granted, blinded by the excitement of the “smart phone” technology that allows us to waste our time playing Candy Crush and other stupid games all day.

So I started to look at my Sprint bill and I was in shock.

I have lived in Orland Park, a Chicago suburb, for nearly 40 years. So I was surprised when I discovered that I was paying a tax of about 10 percent on my bill to the City of Chicago.

Basically, when I set up the phone, I included my daughter who was a student living in an apartment in Chicago to attend school at DePaul.

Years ago after she graduated and married, I removed her name. But Sprint and Chicago didn’t want to see it that way.

Chicago wasn’t going to lose $27 a month in taxes and Sprint cared more about Chicago than me, the “loyal customer.”

It angered me more when I discovered I was also paying eight percent in “Sprint Surcharges,” and $21.88 to the State of Illinois and $10.07 in taxes to the Village of Orland Park.

RAY HANANIA After getting nowhere with Sprint, I told them I was moving my cell service to another carrier. They told me to go ahead.

I went to T-Mobile, which charged me a flat rate of $160 for four phones including all taxes. The savings by switching from Sprint to T-Mobile was more than $100 a month.

How many of you are like me and trusted your cell phone service provider?

Sprint wasn’t too happy losing all that free money. Although they are required to transfer my phones and numbers to the new carrier, they don’t have to do it efficiently. They tied up two of my four phones, including one that my disabled sister relies on to stay in touch with me from her care center, for weeks with no service.

Sprint refused to release the two phones, even after I paid the balance on the remaining “two year contracts.”

After going through two excruciating weeks of poor communication with my disabled sister, I learned that the cell phone I bought for her to use from Best Buy didn’t work with other carriers except Sprint.

Best Buy said they didn’t care either.

The Samsung phone I bought from Best Buy to use with Sprint was “branded” by Sprint and was non-transferable.

I ended up buying my disabled sister a new Samsung phone.

The hassles were not over. Within a few weeks, Sprint sent me a new bill claiming I owed them $940.14 because I switched to a new carrier. I battled with them in five telephone conversations arguing their information was wrong. I paid off all balances due, $450, on the two remaining “contracts.”

Finally, after weeks more of hassles, a polite Sprint operator acknowledged I was right. She said she posted a “note” on my file showing the charges were inaccurate and removed and gave me the note reference number.

Like I trust them. You shouldn’t trust Sprint either. Wouldn’t it be nice if someone in Illinois thought it worth investigating how cell phone companies overcharge customers? Maybe public hearings to invite people to share how they have been ripped off?

How about investigating whey Chicago is collecting taxes on cell phone users living in the suburbs?

In the end, it cost me more than $1,200 to leave Sprint, buying a new Samsung phone to replace the useless one from Best Buy, and paying off the outstanding “contracts.” But I don’t care. It was the best $1,200 I have ever spent knowing I escaped an operation like Sprint.

But I don’t think Sprint should be off the hook for those Chicago tax charges.

You need to complain, too.

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

READERS WRITE Trump mess keeps getting worse

Dear Editor, How to insult a former President: have Mr. Trump hurl an unsubstantiated insult at him by accusing President Obama of wiretapping him [Trump] at Trump Tower. And, he says that this happened just before the November election.

President Trump offered no proof of this wild accusation.

Accusing President Obama of a crime like this is preposterOwned and operated by Southwest Regional Publishing Co. ous!

Mark Hornung, Chief Operating Officer Why does he do this, you wonder? Well, there is an easy The Business Side The News Side answer. Mr. Trump wants to Donna Brown, Sales Director Anthony Caciopo, Editor take the attention he is getting Monica Cotter, Finance Director Dermot Connolly, Reporter from all the Russian connecDebbie Perrewe, Classified Manager Jeff Vorva, Sports Editor Mike Russell, Production Director Lauren Ziemann, Art Director tions off himself, along with Rita Crosley, Pre-press Manager Chuck Ingwersen, Designer many members of his staff and cabinet. President Trump can’t take the heat! As President Southwest Regional Publishing Truman once said, “If you 12243 S. Harlem Ave. can’t take the heat, get out of Palos Heights, IL 60463 the kitchen!”

Phone: (708) 448-4000 The newest Attorney General Fax: (708) 448-4012 of the USA already got caught Website: www.theregionalnews.com lying publicly about his conemail: TheRegional@comcast.net nection with Russian ambasOffice hours: Monday-Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. sador Sergei Kislyak. Now Attorney General Jeff Sessions Deadlines has recused himself from any Editorial: Noon, Saturday • Advertising: 5 p.m., Monday Trump-Russian investigation Subscription rates: Local, delivered by mail, $48 a year in advance. Out-of-State, $58 because he had spoken twice a year. Single copies, $1. Postmaster: Send address changes to THE REGIONAL NEWS, with the Russian ambassador 12243 S. Harlem Ave., Palos Heights, IL 60463 and additional post offices. and kept this silent during his The Regional News cannot be responsible for the return of unsolicited material. USPS 419-260 Periodical postage paid at Palos Heights, IL 60463 and additional post offices. confirmation before the Senate.

I believe Mr. Sessions should Entered as periodical mail at the Post Office at Palos Heights, IL, 60643 and not be holding this position additional post offices under the Act of March 3, 1879. of Attorney General anymore. © Entire contents copyright 2015 Southwest Regional Publishing When you openly lie and deny about talking with the RusThis newspaper is dedicated to the memory of those who gave their lives to protect America’s sians, how can the American freedom of the press, whenever and however it people trust you anymore? It may be threatened. is time for a new Attorney

General!

It is evident that we need an independent commission to investigate this “tapping” incident fairly. A chairman like Colin Powell would be a good start. Other members of like personalities could be added to the commission. It would not be prudent to have senators or representatives of either party to be on this commission. It probably will take an independent commission to untangle the “Russian connection” also.

Come on, Congress, work a 5-6 day week like most Americans do!

Each week, the American people see an example of a person who is not qualified to be a President of the USA. Mr. Trump does not have a clue on how to run a government! He got there by hurling a long list of insults to all the candidates for who ran for president, and the public must have liked what they heard.

He has over 500 positions to fill in the offices of our government, which should have been filled a month ago. He is in over his head! It bothers me to witness our government disintegrate. Congress must take action to stop him. The people of the USA deserve a real president!

— Dean Koldenhoven, Palos Heights

The Failed ToughSentencing Deterrent

Dear Editor, In May 1995, Chicago police seized a record-breaking

two-ton shipment of cocaine (1,600 kilos) and marijuana (the remainder). A resident of Chicago’s Gage Park community, remembering the Oklahoma City bombing perpetrated

by Timothy McVeigh and Terry Nichols just two months before, became suspicious and called police when a Ryder rental truck was spotted in the neighborhood.

Despite fear of tough new drug penalties, the lure of huge drug profits is always greater.

The seizure of record-sized drug caches and cash found in courier cars had become so commonplace as not to be news at all. What has become of the tough punishment deterrent? The penalty is tough but the deterrent failed even for mega-drug traffickers in Illinois.

In 1995, the Illinois criminal law provided that a defendant convicted of the delivery or manufacture of 900 grams of cocaine was guilty of a “Class X” crime, and a Class X crime required incarceration for a period of not less than 15 years and not more than 60 years. Gov. Jim Thompson led the Madison Avenue-styled, “get-tough-on-crime” product.

But Illinois’ tough criminal laws never contemplated larger-sized drug deals; say, delivery or manufacture of a hundred pounds, a ton or a truckload of drugs.

A few calculations demonstrated that the 1,600-kilogram, Gage Park seizure equals 1,600,000 grams, requiring a cumulative prison sentence of

between 266 centuries minimum and 1,066 centuries maximum (1,600 kilos⁄900-gram increment), based on the time a defendant is sentenced for each 900-gram unit. These calculations assume the prosecutor ignored a few bales of marijuana.

The beleaguered taxpayer may shudder knowing that the cost of incarcerating just one drug dealer in this case, computed at $16,000 a year, an Illinois Criminal Justice Information Authority figure, would cost $426 million minimum and $1.7 billion maximum.

Conceptualized another way, the prison cost for this one drug defendant would equal two to eight times the entire projected deficit of the Chicago Board of Education for the 1996 school year.

Lordy help taxpayers, if more than one defendant was caught and incarcerated at that cost.

Recalling this drug-sentencing deterrent story should have taxpayers worried about Chicago Police Department Supt. Eddie Johnson’s call in Springfield last Thursday (March 9) for tougher sentencing for repeat gun offenders to stop gang violence, because criminal penalties less than death cannot compete with the lure of drug prohibition profits.

And as Supt. Johnson says, “the drug trade drives Chicago gang violence.” To stop that violence, we need new drug laws not new gun laws.

— James E. Gierach, Palos Park

The Regional News

FINANCIAL FOCUS

BUSINESS

Time for financial spring cleaning Spring is in the air, even if it’s not quite there on the calendar. This year, as you shake off the cobwebs from winter and start tidying up around your home and yard, why not also do some financial spring cleaning?

Actually, you can apply several traditional spring cleaning techniques to your financial situation. Here are a few ideas: • Look for damage. Damage to your home’s siding, shingles and foundation can eventually degrade the structure of your home. Your investment portfolio is also a structure of a sort, and it, too, can be damaged. Specifically, you may have deliberately constructed your portfolio with an investment mix — stocks, fixed-income vehicles, cash instruments, etc. — that’s appropriate for your goals and risk tolerance. But over time, your portfolio can evolve in unexpected ways. For example, your stocks may have grown so much in value that they now take up a larger percentage of your holdings than you had intended, possibly subjecting you to a higher degree of risk. If this happens, you may need to rebalance your portfolio.

• Get rid of “clutter.” As you look around your home, do you see three mops or four nonfunctional televisions or a stack of magazines from the 1990s?

If these items no longer have value, you could get rid of them and clear up some living space. As an investor, you also might have “clutter” — in the form of investments that no longer meet your needs.

If you sold these investments, you could use the proceeds to fill gaps in your portfolio.

• Consolidate. Do you keep your lawnmower in a shed, a rake in your garage, and your gardening tools in the basement? When working on your outdoor tasks, you might find it more efficient to have all these items in one location. You could also have your investments scattered about — an IRA here, a new 401(k) there, and an older 401(k) someplace else. But if you consolidated all your investments

5

COMINGS & GOINGS

Jim Van Howe Edward Jones

in one place, you might cut down on paperwork and fees, and you wouldn’t risk losing track of an asset (which actually happens more than you might think). Even more importantly, when you have all your investments with one provider, you’ll be better positioned to follow a single, centralized investment strategy.

• Prepare for a rainy day. As part of your outdoor spring cleaning, you may want to look at your gutters and downspouts to make sure they are clear and in good repair, so that they can move rainwater away from your home. Your financial goals need protection, too, so you’ll want to ensure you have adequate life and disability insurance.

• Seal leaks. In your home inspection this spring, you may want to investigate doors and windows for leaks and drafts. Your investment portfolio might have some “leaks” also. Are investment-related taxes siphoning off more of your earnings than you realize? A financial professional can offer you recommendations for appropriate tax-advantaged investments.

This spring, when you’re cleaning your physical surroundings, take some time to also tidy up your financial environment. You may be pleased with the results.

Jim Van Howe is a financial advisor with Edward Jones in Palos Heights. His office is at 7001 W. 127th St. He can be reached at 361-3400. This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor.

FASHION CHAT

Just can’t get enough Depeche Mode In 1980, an electro-pop band formed in the east London town of Basildon in the county of Essex.

It is 37 years and 14 studio albums later. After selling well over 100 million records world-wide, that band is still filling staggeringly vast arenas of passionate fans around the globe, all unifying to sing along to cherished anthems like “Enjoy the Silence,” “I Feel You,” “Policy of Truth” and “Never Let Me Down Again,” while the band continues to turn out brand new material today. That band is Depeche Mode.

Legend avows that singer Dave Gahan spontaneously gave the band its name after the manager of a small venue phoned him up to confirm their performance spot and ask how to announce them.

Gahan, studying in art school at the time, looked down at the name of the French magazine on his desk and responded “Dépêche Mode,” which translates to “Fashion Update.” Appropriately, their look and fashion style have certainly been cutting edge over the years, along with their music.

This Friday, March 17th will see the release of their new album Spirit supported by the band’s official “Global Spirit Tour.” To truly elucidate how far they have come, let us journey now through Depeche Mode’s fashion career through an unabashedly adulating examination of their music videos.

In 1982, their video “See You” presents a baby-faced Dave Gahan donning a thoroughly nerdchic ensemble. With high-waist trousers tucked into his socks, a narrow burgundy bowtie, and a leather bomber jacket, Gahan ambles about a department store longing to see his mysterious dream girl, a store employee. His bandmates are scattered throughout the store wearing their ties, wool sweaters, and suit jackets, pushing machinery and calculator buttons along with the music. This quirky and utterly eighties fashion display exemplifies Depeche Mode’s early sugary pop-synth sound.

1983’s “Love Itself” denoted a pivot point for Depeche Mode’s music and a transition of their fashion. Gahan appears with spiked platinum hair, tanned skin and nude lipstick. Guitarist Martin Gore contrasts him by wearing a harness and bullet belt over a white tee and leather pants. They wander through a cave while singing, clapping, and blowing into trumpets.

In 1985, the video for “It’s Called a Heart” ushers the band into electronic powerhouse status. On the brink of international superstardom, we see Depeche Mode take up experimental fashions in hair with frosted tips, tanned skin and caked-on makeup for Gahan, while Martin Gore wears an androgynous ensemble of a cowboy hat, leather skirt, black lipstick, and a pearl necklace. This phase also marks the start of their hearty embrace of the black leather motorcycle jacket.

The 1986 video for “Stripped” presents the band in a foggy and dusty night of Berlin engrossed in a truly melancholic aesthetic of blue, pink and yellow light. They encircle a flower-strewn, dilapidated car as they sing and smash it with sledge-hammers to the beat of the music. The darkness of the visuals coalesces with the darkness of the fashion.

Dave, Martin, Andy Fletcher, and then member Alan Wilder are all decked out in black leather jackets, black gloves, black everything.

The 1987 video premiere of “Strangelove” likely set off a mad rush of women to purchase off-shoulder

Thursday, March 16, 2017

CAROLINE FOREMAN body-conscious dresses and over-the-elbow gloves similar to the video’s stylish main female character. Auteur Anton Corbijn created a high-end world of stylish sleaze to perfectly accompany the song about the darker, tragic, and quirkier side of love. The band is dressed in their then-uniform of black leather and sunglasses. Women appear in skintight latex, at times on a midday stroll with a chic little bulldog.

The epic, sepia-toned western that is the “Personal Jesus” music video of 1989 offers fashion with attitude. Again, Anton Corbijn managed to transform a rundown Spanish desert hotel into an imagined paradise of beautiful women in high-waisted bell-bottoms, fringed tops, and chandelier earrings.

The band wears elaborate ensembles of cowboy boots, bandanas, and cowboy hats. Martin Gore’s ensemble of a black leather fringe jacket paired with a metallic shirt and conch belt is notably and utterly chic.

Anton Corbijn’s 1994 video for “In Your Room” visually summarizes his work with the band thus far through an artfully color-saturated expression.

Dave Gahan wears all black and shows his grunge influence at the time in his long, dark hair and facial hair. The most memorable aspect of the video, however, is Martin Gore’s silver sequined shorts, silver top and matching pair of silver, midcalf Doc Martens.

The last video of historical fashion significance is Depeche Mode’s 1997 video for “It’s No Good.”

The video light-heartedly jokes about fame and the performer lifestyle. Gahan wears a green sequined suit, gold baubles and a cocky bouffant hairstyle.

Martin is black-clad and sporting a side-shaved and slicked-back hairstyle that is still completely relevant to modern fashion.

Today, Depeche Mode are modern and sleek with an undeniable flair. When Dave Gahan is not sporting smart suit looks, he opts to perform wearing slim-fit black trousers and a black suit vest, often with a sheen or sparkle. He tends to add pops of color with the vest’s backside in bright yellow or lavender satin. Andy Fletcher opts for dark separates and quirky graphics. Martin Gore continues to choose exciting options, now with feathers, monochromatic white ensembles, metallics, sequins, eyeliner and combat styling.

It is truly poetic to experience the fruits of a long musical relationship, and Depeche Mode’s fashion progression echoes its maturation. Everything from technological developments, politics, and changing inspirations, to personal growth and strengthened skills contribute to the fluctuating sounds of a musical group. Along with its sound, Depeche Mode continue to musically and sartorially prove a creative and evolving force.

Photo by Bob Bong

The Chill N Grill Spot opened in the former Tastee-Freez at 9348 S. Roberts Road in Hickory Hills.

Culver’s owner receives company’s highest honor

Guy Hollis, owner of six Culver’s restaurants, is the recipient of the 2016 GM Culver Award.

The award, named after the father of co-founder Craig Culver, is the highest honor in the organization which recogGuy Hollis nizes individuals who have demonstrated long-term visionary leadership and success.

“Guy is deserving of this honor,” said Culver in presenting the award at the company’s convention in Chicago last month. “His growth and success is the culmination of high business acumen as well as the ability to attract, retain and develop strong, ambitious and motivated leaders.”

Hollis opened his first Culver’s in 2004 in Bridgeview. Over the next 13 years, he developed multiple restaurants and created a recipe to create opportunities to keep his best team members and provide them an opportunity to make a good living and grow as individuals. Since 2015 alone, he has developed five mentees who now operate their own restaurants.

“We are thankful for the opportunity to be a part of the Culver family and to pass on our good fortune to others who helped in our successes. We plan on continuing our growth to include even more team members within our organization,” said Hollis.

Hollis owns restaurants in Berwyn, Bridgeview, Evergreen Park, Franklin Park, Lyons and Oak Lawn.

He is now planning a new restaurant for the Midway Airport area.

The city has approved selling him a vacant lot at 6400 S. Cicero Ave. The 4,000-square-foot eatery is expected to break ground soon and open near the airport early next year.

Hollis also is working on a Culver’s at the 6 Corners area in Chicago’s Portage Park neighborhood and another in north suburban Evanston.

Reader likes new Hickory Hills restaurant

Reader Linda Kierzek passed on this note recently about the Chill N Grill Spot restaurant that took over the old Tastee-Freez location at 9348 S. Roberts Road in Hickory Hills.

“Very, very good. Surprisingly good. My husband had the gyro plate and he had enough for two more meals out of the one order.

Also, he thought the gyro meat tasted better than the meat at the other two gyro places he has been going to in the area. I had the fish sandwich. It came on a large sesame seed bun (toasted!), the fish was nice and firm, served very hot (temperature, which is fine since a lot of fast food is lukewarm), fish breading was crispy, with a nice homemade tartar sauce and fresh tomato slices and crisp lettuce. Their french fries were crispy, done nicely on the inside, and not at all greasy. Staff was friendly and my husband said he was impressed with how clean it was (compared to a lot of “hot dog” places). He took the food — Caroline Foreman is a fashion model, writer carry-out and the food was all and critic. still nice and hot when he got

Ross opens in Homewood

BOB BONG home. We will go back again.”

Burger King reopens in Orland Park The Burger King restaurant at 14601 S. LaGrange Road in Orland Park reopened last month after undergoing an extensive remodeling.

The eatery has a drive-through lane and dining room, which are both open from 6 a.m. to midnight Monday to Friday and from 7 a.m. to midnight on Saturday and Sunday.

RadioShack closing in Frankfort Troubled electronics retailer RadioShack has been holding a store closing sale at its Frankfort location in the Frankfort Crossing plaza at U.S. 30 and LaGrange Road.

The Frankfort location is one of nine stores in Illinois being closed and the only one in the south suburbs. Other locations are in Willowbrook and LaGrange.

Liquidation sales at the stores are expected to be completed by March 28.

The company filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection last week, its second such filing in two years. The company is looking to close at least a third of its remaining locations and possibly turn over some to Sprint.

As many as 365 locations could be transferred to Sprint, which operates stores inside some RadioShack stores, the company said in court filings. Among that second group are stores in Chicago’s McKinley Park neighborhoods.

RadioShack said it is still considering its options for the retailer’s remaining 1,000 stores.

Ross Dress for Less, the nation’s largest off-price apparel and home fashion chain with more than 1,100 stores, expanded its presence in the Chicago area with the grand opening Saturday, March 4, of three new stores in the southern suburbs.

New stores opened at 17910 S. Halsted St. in Homewood, at 1101 Fifth Avenue in North Hammond, Ind., and 1470 N. Larkin in Joliet.

The retailer opened 20 new stores nationwide on March 4.

The new stores bring the total number of Ross Dress for Less locations to more than 40 in the Chicago area. The California-based chain only arrived in the area a few years ago with the opening of its first Illinois store in Orland Park.

Hours at the new stores are 9:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday to Thursday, from 9 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday and from 9:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. Sunday.

Chipotle opens in Mokena A Chipotle restaurant opened last month in a new retail development at 19130 S. Lagrange Road in Mokena.

The Chipotle opened Feb. 15 and has a drive-through lane as well as a liquor license.

The restaurant is open from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily.

Also coming to the development is a Starbucks coffee shop, which will be adjacent to the Chipotle.

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

You can also catch up on Comings & Goings in other parts of the Southland at www.southlandbusinessnews.com and www. southlandsavvy.blogspot.com

Mortgage Rates Around the Area First Midwest Bank (as of March 13)

30-year fixed

RATES APR POINTS 4.375 4.410 0

15-year fixed

3.625

3.680

0

30-year fixed Jumbo

4.375

4.420

0

United Trust Bank (as of March 13)

30-year fixed

RATES APR POINTS 4.375 4.396 0

15-year fixed

3.625

3.662

0

10-year fixed

3.500

3.553

0

Prospect Federal (as of March 13)

30-year fixed

RATES APR POINTS 4.250 4.296 .25

20-year fixed

4.000

4.062

.25

15-year fixed

3.500

3.562

.25

All rates subject to change daily. Equal opportunity lenders.

6 Thursday, March 16, 2017

The Regional News

Carolyn Rush, wife of Cong.

Bobby Rush (D-1st), dies Carolyn Rush, 68, the wife of Cong. Bobby Rush (D-1st), died Monday morning of congestive heart failure at the University of Chicago Hospital.

“Today I have lost my best friend, the love of my life, my confidant and my best half,” said Rush, who was at her bedside, along with her children, when she died. “This is one of the most difficult days of my life. If there is any comfort at all, it is in knowing that Carolyn is no longer suffering and that she has returned to our Father in Heaven. I will always cherish her. She was everything to me. I am devastated.”

Rush wanted to thank people for their love and support over the

last several months as his wife’s health faded. He also commended the staff at the University of Chicago’s medical staff for what he described as their excellent care for his wife during her illness.

“I also express my sincerest appreciation to my colleagues in Congress, and to my constituents for understanding why it was so important for me to be with my wife when I also had to be in Washington,” said Rush. “Choosing to be with her until the very end was really no choice for me at all. As her husband, it was my duty and as a man of God it was also my responsibility to be by her side. Carolyn never left my side when I was diagnosed

BILLY GRAHAM'S "MY ANSWER"

Don’t live in constant fear of the future. Instead, by faith put your life and your future into Christ’s hands. He alone is our hope, and He alone is our security. The Bible says, “Neither the present nor the future... will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord” (Romans 8:38-39).

We commit far more sins than we could ever list!

Q: My friend says he doesn’t need to confess his sins very often, because he keeps a mental checklist of his actions and believes that he seldom sins. Do you think he’s right? — M.M. A: Your friend may sincerely believe this about himself, but he is not correct. A friend of mine met someone like this once, and later his wife whispered to him, “Just ask me how perfect he is!”

One problem is that your friend seems to have a shallow view of sin. Yes, he has a list, and it probably includes most of the things we rightly label as sins. But what about the sins we overlook, such as evil thoughts or wrong motives?

Jesus was concerned not only with what we do, but with what goes on inside of us. Or what about the things we fail to do — show-

ing compassion to others, helping those who are hurting, witnessing for Christ? The Psalmist prayed, “Who can discern their own errors? Forgive my hidden faults” (Psalm 19:12).

Your friend concerns me for another reason, however. When we fail to realize how sinful we are, pride takes over, and pride is a sin. Jesus condemned those who believed they were more righteous than anyone else, because they were blinded by their own pride.

But pride not only blinds us to our sin; it also blinds us to our need for Christ and His forgiveness.

The Bible warns, “In his pride the wicked man does not seek him; in all his thoughts there is no room for God” (Psalm 10:4).

Be honest about your own sins, and turn to Christ for the forgiveness you need. Then pray for your friend, that he too will realize the depth of his sin - and the even greater depth of Christ’s mercy and love.

Send your queries to “My Answer,” c/o Billy Graham, Billy Graham Evangelistic Association, 1 Billy Graham Parkway, Charlotte, N.C., 28201; call 1-(877) 2-GRAHAM, or visit the Web site for the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association: www.billygraham.org.

Jesse White’s legislation to expand Organ/ Tissue Donor Registry passes House Secretary of State Jesse White’s legislation that would allow 16and 17-year-olds to register for the state’s First Person Consent Organ/Tissue Donor Registry when they receive their driver’s license or identification card passed the Illinois House of Representatives last week.

House Bill 1805, sponsored by state Rep. Deb Conroy (D-46th), now goes to the Senate for consideration. A similar measure — Senate Bill 868, sponsored by state Sen. Mattie Hunter (D-3rd) — passed a Senate Committee on Feb. 16.

“Our goal is always to save lives,” White said. “Thousands of Illinoisans are waiting for an organ. Many of those who wait are someone’s mother, father, daughter or son. This legislation, which the vast majority of other states have implemented, is an important step in reducing the number of those on the waiting list.”

The legislation amends the Illinois Anatomical Gift Act allowing 16- and 17-year-olds to join the First Person Consent Organ/Tissue Donor Registry. Under current law, an individual must be at least 18 years old to join the registry.

Those who join the registry will receive a letter from the Secretary of State’s office thanking them for joining. White encourages 16- and 17-year-olds to use this letter as a basis for discussing their decision with their parents.

By joining the First Person Consent Organ/Tissue Donor Registry, 16- and 17-year-olds will be giving consent to donate their organs and tissue at the time of their death, with a single limitation. The procurement organizations, Gift of Hope Organ and Tissue Network and Mid-America Transplant, must make a reasonable effort to contact a parent or guardian to ensure that they approve of the donation. The parent or guardian will have the opportunity to overturn the child’s

decision. Once the 16- or 17-yearold turns 18, his/her decision would be considered legally binding without limitation.

There are 47 states that have enacted this legislation, including Colorado, Indiana, Kentucky, Maine, Missouri, New York, North Carolina and Wisconsin.

In 2016, 121,553 16-year-olds and 132,852 17-year-olds were issued driver’s licenses as well as 41,250 16-year-olds and 54,362 17-year-olds were issued identification cards, according to White’s

office.

Approximately 4,700 people are on the waiting list and about 300 people die each year waiting for an organ transplant. One person can improve the quality of life for up to 25 people. Currently, 6.1 million Illinoisans are registered with the state’s registry.

Residents can register with the Secretary of State’s Organ/Tissue Donor Registry at LifeGoesOn. com, by calling (800) 210-2106 or visiting their local Driver Services facility.

Answers

Sudoku

Puzzle on Page 7

Raymond S. Brigel Raymond S. Brigel age 96 of Palos Heights, Veteran U.S. Navy Pilot WWII. Loving Husband for 72 years of the Late Dorothy R. Brigel nee Martin.

Dear Father of Suzanne (Tom) Laydon, Melinda Newtson, Richard Brigel, Patricia Wilson and the late Lawrence W. Brigel.

Grandfather of 7 Great Grandfather of 10.

Brother of the Late George (Ruth) Brigel, the late Ruth (the late Stewart) Anderson & the late Alice (the Late John) DeFore.

Brother in Law of Ann (the late Tom) McKenna, the late Robert (Janet) Martin & the late Mary Jo (the late Rex) Shirkie.

He made everyone who met him feel welcome

with cancer. She’s the reason I’m still here. I will forever miss my friend.”

Carolyn Rush was born on May 27, 1949 in Memphis and moved to Chicago at an early age.

She graduated with high honors with a bachelor of art degree in Organizational Leadership from Roosevelt University. Rush said his wife served as a community organizer, precinct captain, political strategist and was active in the civil rights movement.

Leonard Fieroh The Rushes had a blended Leonard R. Fieroh, 96, a Palos Park resident, family of seven children and 11 died March 3 at Sunrise of Palos Park. grandchildren. The couple was Mr. Fieroh was a retired superintendent of a conmarried for 36 years. Funeral struction and masonry company. arrangements are pending.

Survivors include daughters, Kathy Lombardi and Elise Pollard; son, Jon Fieroh; and two grandchildren.

Services were Friday from Schmaedeke Funeral Home to Lutheran Church of The Good Shepherd.

Inurnment followed at Fairmount Wills Memorial Park.

Instead of fearing the future, put your life in Christ’s hands Q: How will the world come to an end, according to the Bible? I worry about things like nuclear war, asteroids crashing into the earth, and things like that. Is this the way the world will end? — Mrs. L.T. A: The Bible doesn’t say exactly how the world will come to an end, but it does stress that someday this will happen, and when it does, the destruction will be total and absolute. The Bible says, “That day will bring about the destruction of the heavens by fire, and the elements will melt in the heat” (2 Peter 3:12).

But the Bible says two other things that are equally important.

First, it tells us that this will happen only at God’s command, and in God’s time. Wars may rage; power-hungry despots may terrorize; accidents and natural disasters may destroy, but the future is in God’s hands, and He alone will bring an end to the world.

Second, the Bible tells us that the end of the world — will not be the end! God will create a new world, one that’s perfect and free from sin, sickness, death and fear.

“In keeping with his promise we are looking forward to a new heaven and a new earth, where righteousness dwells” (2 Peter 3:13). All this is possible because of Christ’s victory over death and hell.

DEATH NOTICES

Puzzle on Page 7

Thomas McCormick

Thomas J. McCormick, 88, a Palos Heights resident, died March 6.

Mr. McCormick was stationary engineer for Chicago Public Schools.

Survivors include a daughter, Patricia Lehnhardt; sons, Thomas, Timothy and Terrence; nine grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.

Visitation is from 3 to 8 p.m. today (Thursday,

March 16) at Becvar & Son Funeral Home, 5539 W. 127th St., Crestwood. Services are at 10:30 a.m. Friday from the funeral home to Incarnation Catholic Church, 5757 W. 127th St., Palos Heights, for 11 a.m. Mass. Interment will be held at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery.

Josephine Hucko

Josephine A. Hucko (nee Spaltis), 92, a former longtime Palos Heights resident, died Friday at Palos Hospital.

Mrs. Hucko was a homemaker. A graduate of St. Casimir Academy (later Maria High School), Mrs. Hucko was a fishing enthusiast, an avid gardener and a lifelong traveler. She was also a longtime resident of Key Largo, Fla. Survivors include her sons, Jody and Bill; and longtime companions, Sandy Claws and Kino.

Visitation is from 4 to 8 p.m. today (Thursday, March 16) at Palos-Gaidas Funeral Home, 11028 Southwest Highway, Palos Hills. Services are at 11 a.m. Friday, March 17 at the funeral home. Interment will follow at St. Casimir Lithuanian Cemetery.

Author discusses story on overcoming dyslexia at SXU presentation An author will share his story on how he overcame dyslexia and being illiterate during a presentation from 3 to 5 p.m.

Saturday, March 18 at St. Xavier University, 3700 W. 103rd St., Chicago.

The SXU School of Education’s presentation of “Life Alby Lee Lewis with No Words: A Book Signing” with author Alby Lee Lewis will take place in the Warde Academic Center’s Butler Reception Room. The event is free. Light refreshments will be served.

Lewis spent his whole life keeping his illiteracy a secret from everyone he knew, even his own daughter. Through the love of his mother and wife, he was able to successfully navigate difficult moments such as filling out job applications and reading street signs. After 29 years as a

precision grinder at Illinois Tool Works, Lewis retired and started taking adult literacy classes at the College of DuPage using the Barbara Wilson Reading Program.

He worked diligently for eight years to improve his reading abilities until he made his life-long dream a reality. He overcame what was later diagnosed as dyslexia and now reads at a 5.5 reading level. He loves sharing his story with the hope of inspiring others.

He has served as a guest speaker multiple times at North Central College as well as other venues. In 2014, a colleague of his daughter made the suggestion he write a book to share his story with others. Lewis accepted this challenge and began writing his book “Life with No Words.” He officially became a published author in October 2016.

“Life with No Words” is an autobiography of a man who overcame overwhelming odds to achieve success in life. The story portrays some sad realities, but

also shows the humorous aspects of Lewis’ life. It is a personal story of coping with and overcoming dyslexia.

As a precursor to Lewis reading an excerpt from his book, Dr. Meg Carroll, professor of education, and Dr. Tara Joyce, associate professor of education, will provide information on dyslexia. Carroll will highlight the characteristics of children with dyslexia and what they need, and Dr. Joyce will focus her remarks on adults with dyslexia, particularly related to what Lewis wrote in “Life with No Words.”

A limited number of books will be available for purchase at the event. Paperback and hard cover books can be purchased in advance at either Lulu.com or Amazon. com.

For more information on the event or author, contact Dr. Jaclyn Murawska at (773) 298-3398 or murawska@sxu.edu.

LEGAL NOTICE F17020011 STB IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT, CHANCERY DIVISION Statebridge Company, LLC Plaintiff, vs.

Marta Bajaczyk aka Marta Bakaczyic; Mill Creek Homeowners Association; Krzysztof Bajaczyk aka Krysztof Bajazyk; Unknown Owners and Non-Record Claimants Defendants.

CASE NO. 17 CH 2354 12825 South Mills Road, Palos Park, Illinois 60464 Spratt Calendar 64 NOTICE FOR PUBLICATION

The requisite affidavit for publication having been filed, notice is hereby given you, Marta Bajaczyk aka Marta Bakaczyic, Mill Creek Homeowners Association, and UNKNOWN OWNERS and NON-RECORD CLAIMANTS, defendants in the above entitled cause, that suit has been commenced against you and other defendants in the Circuit Court for the Judicial Circuit by said plaintiff praying for the foreclosure of a certain mortgage conveying the premises described as follows, to wit: LOT 100 IN MILL CREEK, A PLANNED UNIT DEVELOPMENT OF PART OF THE NORTHEAST 1/4 OF SECTION 33, TOWNSHIP 37 NORTH, RANGE 12 EAST OF THE THIRD PRINCIPAL MERIDIAN, IN COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS. P.I.N.: 23-33-205-014-0000

LEGAL NOTICE

with his positive and fun loving personality. No wonder we always said “Everyone Loves Raymond”.

Raymond was an avid Reader & Bridge Player also serving on the board of the Palos Heights Library.

Visitation Sunday, March 12, 2017 from 2:00 pm until time of Military Honors at 6:00 pm at the Kerry Funeral Home 7020 W. 127th St. Palos Heights, Il. Interment Holy Sepulchre Cemetery will take place in private at a later date.

In Lieu of Flowers Memorials to the Palos Heights Library 12501 S. 71st Ave. Palos Heights, Illinois 60463 would be appreciated.

Said property is commonly known as 12825 South Mills Road, Palos Park, Illinois 60464, and which said mortgage(s) was/were made by Marta Bajaczyk and recorded in the Office of the Recorder of Deeds as Document Number 0725054003 and for other relief; that Summons was duly issued out of the above Court against you as provided by law and that said suit is now pending.

NOW THEREFORE, unless you, the said above named defendants, file your answer to the complaint in the said suit or otherwise make your appearance therein, in the Office of the Clerk of the Court at Cook County on or before APRIL 10, 2017 a default may be taken against you at any time after that date and a Judgment entered in accordance with the prayer of said complaint.

This communication is an attempt to collect a debt and any information obtained will be used for that purpose.

Steven C. Lindberg ANSELMO LINDBERG OLIVER LLC 1771 W. Diehl Rd., Ste 120 Naperville, IL 60563-4947 630-453-6960 | 866-402-8661 | 630-428-4620 (fax) Attorney No. Cook 58852, DuPage 293191, Kane 031-26104, Peoria 1794, Winnebago 3802, IL 03126232 foreclosure@ALOLawGroup.com THIS LAW FIRM IS DEEMED TO BE A DEBT COLLECTOR.

Selected “Finest Funeral Service”

Palos-Gaidas FUNERAL HOME 11028 Southwest Hwy. Palos Hills

708-974-4410

www.palosgaidasfh.com

The Regional News

Thursday, March 16, 2017

7

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

Shepard musicians earn honor

Supplied photo

Eleven students from Shepard High School recently earned selection to the South Suburban Conference Honors Band. Students and their instruments are Khalil Harper, percussion; Jocelyn Jamieson, clarinet; Jacob Kalabich, baritone saxophone; Megan Karas, French horn; Patty Medina, flute; Julian Ortiz, euphonium; Isabel Plasencia-Contra, bass clarinet; Rebecca Ruger, tenor saxophone; Nick Smeraldo, trombone; Ryan Smith-Lesniak, trombone; and Meghan Travis, French horn.

Across 1 Did a gondolier’s job 6 Wedding planner’s contact 13 Like antique watches 15 Freshwater flatworms 16 Hiker’s challenge 17 Caboose 18 Knockoff cereal?

20 Swift’s medium 21 Runner in the Alps 22 Expire 26 “And if __, no soul shall pity me”: King Richard III 28 Cold cereal?

32 Charged wheels 35 With 24-Down, course for future pundits 36 HŠgar creator Browne 37 Recalled cereal?

40 “Get off the stage!”

43 Corrida figure 44 Philosophers’ subject 48 Prohibited cereal?

51 “Ex’s & Oh’s” singer King 52 MetLife competitor 53 Span of note 56 Court mulligan 57 Mystery cereal?

62 Disorganized 65 Emmy-winning role for Julia 66 Mooring hitch, for one 67 More thoughtful 68 Deal on a lot 69 Round components, maybe

Down 1 Baskin-Robbins offering 2 Enjoying the amusement park 3 Brand that’s swirled, not swallowed 4 Eero Saarinen and others 5 They’re forbidden A Fine Arts Shadow Day was held March 2 at Chicago Christian High School in Palos Heights. Students were able

Fine Arts Shadow Day

6 Little nipper 7 Frolic 8 How some deliveries are paid 9 Brought up 10 Choler 11 Mr. Bumble, to Oliver Twist 12 __ Bo 14 “The Big Bang Theory” figure 15 Freebie from Adobe 19 Go down 23 Prop up 24 See 35-Across 25 “That’s scary!”

27 Middle-earth figure 29 __ point: with limitations 30 Rock’s __ Fighters 31 Penguin’s perch 33 Edible thistle 34 “Just another minute” 38 Spheroid 39 Ewe or sow

to observe fine arts classes including theater, band, choir and art. The day featured a pizza lunch that included presentations from faculty and staff, and a special presentation from the Chicago Christian High School IMPROV Team. Pictured in the photo above are the shadow day guests for the day.

ranking in Class A and Best Brass in its class.

The State of the Art Catholic Band Competition brings together high school bands from the six Dioceses of the State of Illinois and the Diocese of Gary, Ind. The Knights of Columbus have supported this event since its beginning in 1981.

The Brother Rice and Mother McAuley Band is comprised of approximately 140 students from

er 46 Dry __ 47 English and Irish 49 Like some beauty contest winners 50 Neighbor of Homer 54 Be offensive, in a way 55 Response to a heckler 58 Indian royal 59 “The most private of private schools,” to Hugh Laurie 60 Rizzoli of “Rizzoli & Isles”: Abbr.

61 Decrease 62 NYC subway 63 “__ will I” 64 IRS employee (Answers on page 6)

SUDOKU

Brother Rice-Mother McAuley Band wins Wind Ensemble first-place trophy For the first time since 1999, the Brother Rice and Mother McAuley Band captured the Grand Champion trophy with a first place performance in the Wind Ensemble category.

The band of musicians also earned first place in Class AAA and the Best Percussion in its class.

The Symphonic Band claimed the third place award in Class AA. The Concert Band rose to the challenge, earning a third place

40 It may be wired 41 Boor 42 Peanut product 45 Offer to a potential seek-

The object of the game is to fill all the blank squares with the correct numbers.

Each row of 9 numbers must include all digits 1 through 9 in any order.

Each column of 9 numbers must include all digits 1 through 9 in any order.

Each 3 by 3 subsection of the 9 by 9 square must include all digits 1 through 9.

both high schools. This music program will welcome students into an unprecedented four music classes: Beginning Band, Concert Band, Symphonic Band and Wind Ensemble.

Any student in the seventh or eighth grade interested in joining the Brother Rice-Mother McAuley Band should contact Rendak at arendak@brotherrice.org or Rallis at arallis@mothermcauley.org for more information.

(Answers on page 6)

Seat belts on school buses bill passes House committee Legislation supported by Secretary of State Jesse White requiring seat belts on school buses in Illinois passed the House Transportation Vehicles and Safety Committee last week and now moves to the full House of Representatives.

House Bill 3377, sponsored

by Cong. Lou Lang (D-16th), requires 3-point seat belts on school buses. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) supports 3-point seat belts in school buses.

“Nothing is more important than the lives and safety of our children,” said White. “I served

with Rep. Lang in the House and appreciate his commitment to this issue over the years. With improvements in the technology of seat belts, along with NHTSA’s recommendation, now is the time to pass legislation pushing for a significant change in protecting our children on school buses.”

In late 2015, NHTSA endorsed seat belts on school buses due in large part to improved technology with 3-point safety belts.

Up until NHTSA’s endorsement, federal and state safety organizations have largely remained neutral on the issue, with expressed

concerns on whether 2-point lap seat belts improved the overall safety of a child riding a school bus. However, 3-point safety belts better protect children due to their ability to diffuse the forceful and sudden movement the body sustains during a crash over the chest, waist and shoulder areas.

Six states — California, Florida, New Jersey, New York, Louisiana and Texas — have passed laws requiring seat belts in school buses.

To obtain the school bus permit, an applicant must possess a valid driver’s license that has not been revoked or suspended for at least

three years prior to application. In addition, they must pass written and road school bus driver permit exams and must submit to and pass an Illinois-specific FBI criminal background check. The school bus permit must be renewed each year and requires an annual refresher classroom training course. The applicant must pass an annual physical examination, which includes drug testing.

“My mission is to make Illinois roads the safest ever,” said White.

“This new legislation will help us accomplish this goal.”

STUDENT NEWS Locals earn honors at U of I

Several local students are among those making the dean’s list last semester at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign.

Palos Heights residents on the list are Maxwell Barry, Jeffrey Borza and Alexander Puhar.

Orland Park residents earning the distinction are Daphne Beckrakis, Joan Brown, Michael Celani, Sarah Cunningham, Alexander Di Giovanni, Cortney Eiers, Daniel Harris, Omar Moquit, Zachary Niemiera, Matthew Piper, Haadi Shakir, Gabija Staninaite and Matthew Szott.

Palos Park residents on the list are Joseph Adamo, Themio Christy and Sarah Olson.

Lewis University honor achieved by locals

A handful of local students were

named to the dean’s list at Lewis University for the fall semester.

More than 1,400 students earned the distinction.

To be eligible for this honor, students must have completed a minimum of 12 semester hours of credit with a grade point average of 3.5 out of a possible 4.0 and with no “D” or “F” grades.

Palos Heights residents earning the distinction were Jonathan R. Kalabich, Brenna N. Neumann, Sydney Phillips, Elizabeth M. Richardson and Alyssa J. Siwek.

Palos Park residents earning the honor included Adaliz O. Benitez, Timothy A. Fitzgibbons and Julia O. Olexa.

Orland Park student earns speech honor

Mason France of Orland Park was one of 13 students at Moraine Valley Community College to earn distinction at the

Illinois Intercollegiate Forensic Association’s State Speech and Debate tournament, held recently at Northern Illinois University in DeKalb.

France captured second place in the Novice Poetry category.

Under the direction of John Nash, director of the forensics program and communications professor, assistant coaches Amanda Pettigrew and Krista Appelquist along with volunteer coaches Chris Cox and Jeff Rieck, the MVCC team took home 17 awards in 13 categories, including a fifth place overall top speaker award earned by team captain Curtis Griffin, of Richton Park.

“I am extremely proud of the hard work and dedication the students put into researching, writing and practicing. We compete against four-year colleges and universities and it’s a huge challenge for a first-year student to compete

against a senior, but we do it,” Nash said. “Placing at the state tournament is proof of how truly amazing our college and student body are.”

The team will travel to Virginia in April to compete in the Phi Rho Pi National Speech and Debate tournament.

Orland Park resident is selected to dean’s list at Monmouth College

A local student has been selected to the dean’s list Monmouth College in Monmouth, Ill., for the fall 2016 semester.

Orland Park resident Mary Kate Luzzo, the daughter of John and Janine Luzzo of Orland Park, has been selected to the dean’s list.

The junior is a business administration and public relations major.

Photo by Joe Boyle

WHATIZIT? The clue for this week’s Whatizit photo (above) is: Lake drive.

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

We had several readers who knew last week’s Whatizit photo quiz.

The correct answer is St. Patricia. A statue of her is present outside the school and church at 9000 S. 86th Ave., Hickory Hills. We would have gladly accepted St. Patricia School or Church.

Palos Hills resident Roseanne Arnold said it was St. Patricia Parish.

Donna Brehovsky, of Palos Hills, said it was St. Patricia Church and the statue of the saint must be St. Patricia. Hickory Hills resident Cindy Douglas had no problem identifying the school she graduated from. Palos Hills resident Barb Marion and Oak Lawn resident Steve Rosenbaum also answered correctly.

The Regional News

Call 708-448-4000!

Monday-Friday | 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

COMMUNITY NEWS

8 Thursday, March 16, 2017

The Regional News

COMMUNITY NOTES

Palos Park police sell pink patches

Pink patches to promote breast cancer awareness are on sale now at Palos Park Police Department headquarters, 8999 W. 123rd St. The patches, identical to ones worn by Palos Park police officers, are priced at $10 each. Cash is preferred, and all proceeds will benefit the Cancer Support Center in Mokena and Homewood, according to a PPPD statement.

The Pink Patch Project is a collaborative effort between the Los Angeles County Police Chiefs’ Association and public safety agencies from across the nation.

These agencies have partnered to combat breast cancer by raising public awareness and by raising funds for breast cancer education, research and treatment using a common theme and message.

Supplied photo

A turtle at Lake Katherine.

Lake Katherine hosts snakes, turtles and more Snakes, turtles and other reptiles will be the guests of honor this month at Lake Katherine Nature Center & Botanic Gardens, 7402 W. Lake Katherine Drive, Palos Heights.

Throughout March curious children and adults will be invited to get out their comfort zones by venturing up close to the resident critters of Lake Katherine during a series of nature programs.

A Junior Explorers program on Wednesday, March 22 will give children from kindergarten to second grade an opportunity to hold and feed turtles and compare their

similarities and differences.

Likewise, a choice of three Little Explorers programs between Thursday, March 23 and Saturday, March 25 will give preschoolers the chance to get up close to resident turtles.

Admission to all children’s programs is $6 per child. Space is limited, and pre-registration is required. For details, phone (708) 361-1873.

Inquisitive grown-ups can also learn about local reptiles and amphibians by attending an adult education evening on Wednesday, March 22. Natural Resources

Committee Member Melissa Drozd will lead a “Snakes n’ Such” adult class and introduce some of Lake Katherine’s captive snakes and turtles.

The creatures “sometimes elicit a fear or uneasy response, but empathy for our natural world only comes with knowledge and interaction,” said Lake Katherine operations manager Gareth Blakesley. “We hope that inviting people of all ages to get up close to our critters will help encourage an understanding of what truly beautiful, fascinating and essential creatures they really are.”

LIBRARY NOTES New programs added at Palos Heights Library A slate of activities for the week ahead has 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.

• As part of its “Book & Film” series, the library will show the film “The Light Between Oceans” at 2 p.m. Thursday, March 16. It is based on the bestselling book

by M.L. Stedman. Michael Fassbender, Rachel Weisz, and Alicia Vikander star in the film about a lighthouse keeper and his wife living off the coast of Western Australia and the dilemma they face when a precious cargo washes ashore. Runtime is 103 minutes.

All participants will be entered into a raffle to win a paperback copy of the book.

• A St. Patrick’s Day drop-in story time for all children is set for 10 a.m. Friday, March 17. Celebrate the popular holiday with greenthemed stories, crafts and snacks.

No registration is necessary.

• A “Piggie & Elephant Party” for all children starts at 10 a.m.

Saturday, March 18. Celebrate the 10th anniversary of the release of the very first “Piggie & Elephant” book by Mo Wilems. Registration is required.

• “Sunday @ the Cinema: Hell or High Water” is scheduled for 2 p.m. Sunday, March 19. Jeff Bridges and Chris Pine star in this Oscar-nominated film about

a divorced father and his ex-con older brother who resort to a desperate scheme in order to save their family’s ranch in West Texas.

Runtime is 102 minutes.

• “A to Z World Travel” will start at 2 p.m. Monday, March 20.

It is an education session for those thinking of traveling abroad. Learn how to use A to Z World Travel, an online database of travel guides to more than 200 cities worldwide.

• “Tuesday Evening Book Discussion” is set for 7 p.m. Tuesday, March 21. Join in the discussion of the award winning book “News of the World” by Paulette Jiles. In post-Civil War Texas, a 10-yearold girl makes an odyssey back to her aunt and uncle’s home after living with the Kiowa warriors who had killed her parents four years earlier. Copies of the book are available at the front desk. New members are welcome.

• “Getting Started on AncestryLibrary” will begin at 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, March 22. Not sure where to start your family history journey? Figure out how to get started and find what you need to know to get the most from AncestryLibrary.

Additionally, the Needle Club, (for knitting and crocheting), Scrabble Club and Mah Jongg Club meet weekly at the library.

Call ahead for times and dates.

Orland Park Public Library sets slate A number of activities are sched-

uled for the week ahead at the Orland Park Public Library, 14921 S. Ravinia Ave. For details on all activities, call (708) 428-5205.

• “Bright Starts Family Storytime” starts at 10 a.m. Saturday, March 18 for children of all ages and their families. Children participate by repeating words or phrases or making animal sounds. These books enforce vocabulary, word recognition, rhythm and rhyme.

• The Teen Book Club will discuss “Hour of the Bees” by Lindsay Eagar at 2 p.m. Saturday, March 18 at 2 p.m. Youngsters in grades 6-12 will examine the novel that explores family, roots and the line between magic and reality. Mexican-style food will be served. Registration required with the child’s Orland Park Library card.

• “On the Home Front: An Intro to the Great War” is set for 1:30 p.m. Sunday, March 19 and is suitable for students in grade 3 and up. The program will examine how the lives of Americans were affected during the Great War. See original artifacts and hear stories of everyday life turned upside down.

• “World War I and America Roundtable II” is scheduled for 7 p.m. Tuesday, March 21. The Illinois chapter of the Warrior Writers, Orland Park Veteran’s Commission, and the Orland Park Vet Center come back to discuss key points of the “World War I and America” exhibit featured for the month of March. Area veterans are invited to attend and participate.

Your Bank Dropping Its Standards?

it’s time for a CooL change.

Make a Switch.

5 Reasons to Switch Your Banking to CNB Bank & Trust eVantage - a personal checking account that pays interest!

Online banking 24 /7 - We’ve got you covered!

FREE mobile deposit app - bank from anywhere!

Convenient Bill Pay Superior Rating in Customer Satisfaction Surveys

Village of Orland Park announces event slate

Orland Park officials have announced two events in the days ahead.

• The Village of Orland Park Theatre Troupe presents Disney’s “Beauty and the Beast” for three performances: 7 p.m. Friday and Saturday, March 24-25, and 2 p.m.

Sunday, March 26 at the Sandburg High School Performing Arts Center, 13300 S. LaGrange Road.

Tickets must be reserved and are priced at $18/adults; $16/seniors and students; $14/children under 12. Tickets may be purchased at the Recreation Administration Office, 14600 S. Ravinia. For more information, call the Recreation Department at (708) 403-7275.

• The Orland Park Special Rec-

reation Indoor Garage Sale will run from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, March 25 at the Orland Park Civic Center, 14750 S. Ravinia.

Described as one of the largest indoor garage sales in the region, this fundraiser for Orland Park’s Special Recreation Program invites area residents to sell their wares with table rental fees benefitting the program. Those interested in selling at the sale must reserve a table for $30 each. Set-up for sellers begins at 7 a.m. the day of the event. For more information, call the Recreation Department at (708) 403-7275.

Volunteers are needed for Park Lawn’s Tag Days

Volunteers are being sought for Park Lawn’s Bucket Brigade for the annual Tag Days on Fridays and Saturdays, April 7 and 8 and April 14 and 15.

Residents who volunteer are needed for two-hour shifts at street intersections and storefronts in the southwest suburbs to collect donations for Park Lawn. The event informs the local community about the work of Park Lawn, which provides programs and services for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Safety vests, collection buckets and handouts with Park Lawn’s logo will be provided. To volunteer, contact Cynthia San Miguel at (708) 425-6867 or email csanmiguel@parklawn.com. Residents can also visit www.parklawn.com.

Fishing fundraiser set at Lake Katherine

Fishing enthusiasts can cast away along Lake Katherine’s en-

www.cnbil.com | Like Us on Facebook

Volunteers are being sought at Neat Repeats

Volunteers are being sought to volunteer for five hours a week at one of two Neat Repeats Resale stores in the southwest suburbs.

Last year, volunteers gave over 40,000 hours of time to make a difference in the lives of clients.

Residents will be given a tour of Neat Repeats Resale stores at 9028 W. 159th St., Orland Park, or 7026 W. 111th St., Worth.

More information can be obtained by calling the Orland Park store, (708) 364-7605, or Worth, (708) 361-6860.

All sales at Neat Repeats Resale benefit the clients served by the Crisis Center for South Suburbia.

The Crisis Center for South Suburbia is a non-profit community organization that provides emergency shelter and other services for individuals and families victimized by domestic violence.

CLUB ACTIVITIES SCHOOL NOTES Widowed will meet

The Southwest Suburban Widow/Widowers Social Club will meet from 7 to 9 pm Friday, April 7 at Zion Lutheran Church, 17100 S. 69th Ave., Tinley Park.

The social club offers support to widowed of all faiths and ages. Some of its activities include monthly general meetings, restaurant outings, dances, trips and theater outings.

For more information, call Danell Chmura at (630) 728-9368 or Bill Dolehide at (708) 342-6820.

Palos Fine Arts offers scholarships

Palos Fine Arts is offering scholarships to local high school juniors and seniors studying music, visual arts, theater, creative writing or dance.

Five scholarships—One for $1,000 and four for $800 will be awarded.

Applicants must reside within the

boundaries of high school Districts 230 or 218.

Completed applications must be received by April 8. For information, call (708) 448-5332 or email kathy@swsmontessori.com.

Palos Fine Arts was founded in 1984 to stimulate, promote and present the arts in the Palos area. Palos Fine Arts has been awarding scholarships since 1991.

Papa Joe’s of Orland Park Presents...

St. Joseph’s Day Table March 19th • 1:00 p.m. $1995 Adults • $1095 Age 10 & Under Includes coffee, tea, milk and pop

Portio proce n of e will ds donatbe ed.

*Tax excluded We will have a traditional St. Joseph’s Day table that includes a variety of Italian specialties to honor our Patron Saint.

Please join us for this joyous occasion honoring St. Joseph.

Buffet Bruschetta • Cheese Pizza • Eggplant • Baked Ziti • Escarole & Beans Baked Cod with Vegetables • Breaded Whitefish • Chicken Oreganato Four Cheese Lasagna • Garlic Mashed Potatoes • Zucchini Medley

Pasta Station Sauces: Red & White Clam Sauce • Marinara (Red Sauce) Alfredo Sauce • Salas Cruda • Butter & Parmesan Pasta: Linguini • Fettuccini • Mostaccioli • Bow Tie • Spaghetti

Desserts An Assortment of St. Joseph’s Day Cakes, Pastries & Fruits

AWARD WINNING ITALIAN CUISINE! Catering & Banquet Rooms Available For…

Us Call Your l l For Atering Ca ds!

Nee

Communions • Corporate Meetings • Showers • Graduations • Business Gatherings • Birthdays • Memorial Luncheons • Holidays

Any Occasion!

Bo Your ok Pa Now rty !

Orland Park 14459 S. LaGrange Rd. (708) 403-9099

Convenient Locations OAK FOREST PALOS HEIGHTS 12727 S. Ridgeland Ave 5459 W. 159th St. 708.535.8905 708.293.0121

tire shoreline during the annual spring catch-and-release fundraiser set for Saturday, April 8 at the nature center in Palos Heights.

It will take place between 7 a.m. and noon. Anglers can fish the entire shore for muskie, channel catfish, walleye, bluegill and bass.

A donation of $100 per competitor includes lunch at noon. There will be cash prizes for the largest fish.

Each year, the event raises about $2,000 for restoration, education and animal care.

Space is limited to 125 fishermen. Registration forms for the 2017 event can be found in the nature center and on Lake Katherine’s website lakekatherine.org.

Since 1982 • A Lorenzo Restaurant Celebrating over 30 years in the Southwest Suburbs!

Stop in now for 25% off Pizzas on Mondays and 2-for-1 Pasta on Tuesdays!

Hours: Mon-Thurs 10am-10:30pm Fri-Sat 10am-11:30pm • Sun 10am-9:30pm

Lockport 1001 S. State (815) 838-9099 Carry Out, Delivery & Catering only Hours: Mon-Thurs 10am-9:30pm Fri-Sat 10am-10:30pm • Sun 12pm-9:30pm

www.papajoesrestaurant.com

SPORTS The Regional News • The Reporter

16,2015 2017 Thursday, March 5,

Vorva,Sports SportsEditor Editor••sports@regionalpublishing.com sports@regionalpublishing.com KenJeff Karrson,

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

National treasures SXU finishes 2nd in nation in NAIA DII tournament

By Jeff Vorva Sports Editor

St. Xavier’s women’s basketball team started a long trip to Sioux City, Iowa, on a bus on March 8, and there was some slow going on the way there because of hail.

The Cougars were hoping for a long stay in Sioux City with the end result of being hailed as the NAIA Division II champions.

A bookend of hailing, so to speak.

They did stay in Iowa a long time. And for the first half of Tuesday night’s championship game at the Tyson Events Center, it looked like they were about to grab that title as they owned a 30-23 lead.

But the Cougars were pelted by baskets and were outscored 24-8 in the third quarter as they dropped a 66-52 decision to defending national champion Marian (Ind.) to finish in second place.

It is the best finish ever by coach Bob Hallberg and his program.

SXU (34-3) and its fans saw a little of everything on this five-game journey. They saw a 30-30 quarter. A 6-6 quarter.

They saw a couple of blowouts, a couple of come-from-behind victories and, ultimately, a loss after holding the lead as late as 3 minutes, 10 seconds in the third period in front of a crowd of 1,600 at the Tyson facility and a large crowd watching the feed of the game at the Shannon Cen-

SITTIN’ PRETTY IN SIOUX CITY The five games SXU played in the nationals as it finished second in the nation in NAIA Division II: Thursday: Beat Indiana University-Kokomo 100-61 Friday: Beat Friends University (Kan.) 96-66 Saturday: Beat the College of the Ozarks (Missouri) 69-53 Monday: Beat Concordia (Neb.) 91-83 Tuesday: Lost to Marian (Ind.) 66-52

ter in Chicago.

Brittany Collins led the Cougars with 14 points and eight rebounds. Junior Kara Krolicki was limited to 10 points but after the game was named the NAIA Division II Player of the Year.

“You can’t judge (the season) off of one game,” Krolicki told reporters after the game. “I had a great time playing this season.

I loved playing with all these girls and this is the game that everybody wants, but this time it didn’t come out in our favor. . .

We are hoping that we can come back here next year and get what we want. I couldn’t ask for more this season.”

To get to the final, the Cougars trailed Concordia University (Neb.) 28-11 early but went on to dominate the rest of the way

Photo by MyNAIATourney.org

Marian players celebrate while St. Xavier players watch in the background after Tuesday’s NAIA Division II National Championship game.

in a 91-83 triumph. Unlike Tuesday night, when the Cougars had their share of woes in the third quarter, the third quarter of the semifinal game saw them outscore their opponent 25-9.

“It’s amazing; just an unbe-

lievable feeling,” said Krolicki, who had 26 points.

“We went into halftime with the lead cut down. We knew we could do it. We had another 20 minutes of basketball left. The first half we had to get used to

what they were doing and settle down and see what worked for us. We were a little calmer.”

Freshman guard Maddie Welter connected on a pair of threepointers in under a minute in the third to give the Cougars the lead

for the first time. Senior guard Mikayla Leyden drained a longrange shot at the third-quarter buzzer to head into the final 10 minutes ahead, 61-53 and the See SXU, Page 3

Cyclones ready for deep run in NJCAA tourney

By Jeff Vorva Sports Editor

Moraine Valley Community College’s women’s basketball team hasn’t been to the National Junior College Athletic Association National Championship Tournament since 1989, so there is only one goal for the Cyclones.

“Our mindset is to go in and win a national championship,” said Evergreen Park native and Mother McAuley graduate Erin Drynan, who had 34 points, 22 rebounds and eight blocked shots in a 92-72 victory over Illinois Valley on Saturday as Moraine won the Region IV Tournament at Waubonsee Community College in River Grove.

“We want to win — we just beat every team in the region by 20 (or more points),’’ sophomore Michelle Borgen said. “We’re ready to go. We’re just ready. It’s exciting.’’

The 16-team Division II tournament opens up Tuesday at Pioneer Pavilion in

So, what the heck is Moraine’s record?

By Jeff Vorva Sports Editor

Moraine Valley is heading into Tuesday’s National Junior College Athletic Association National Championship Tournament with a record of…

Well, it’s not clear.

What’s certain is that the Cyclones played 33 games this season and were 31-2 on the court.

But the team was penalized either 14 or 15 games for using ineligible players and had to forfeit those games. After the Harrison, Ark. Other Illinois teams in the field are Kankakee and Parkland.

The Cyclones picked up the 10th seed and will face seventh-seeded Kalamazoo Val-

team won the Region IV Tournament on Saturday, the official box score said Moraine’s record was 17-16. However, the NJCAA website listed the Cyclones with a 16-17 mark.

What’s the real record?

“You know what? We’ve chosen to ignore it,” Cyclones coach Delwyn Jones said. “We don’t even talk about it. We don’t know if it’s 14 or 15 (games forfeited). I had us at 17-16. Now its 16-17.

But we only talk 31-2 around here.’’

See RECORD, Page 3 Photo by Jeff Vorva

ley, Mich. (28-3, 20-game winning streak) Erin Drynan, an Evergreen Park native and Mother McAuley graduate, is at 1 p.m. Tuesday. The only unbeaten team congratulated by her coach, Delwyn Jones, for winning the Region IV MVP award after scoring 34 points in Moraine Valley’s 92-72 win over

See CYCLONES, Page 3 Illinois Valley Saturday to qualify for the NJCAA National Tournament.

CHICAGO FIRE 2, REAL SALT LAKE 0

Despite being c-c-c-old, Niko was hot, hot, hot

By Jeff Vorva Sports Editor

Photo by Jeff Vorva

The Fire’s Nemanja Nikolic emerges from the shadows to an adoring crowd after scoring a goal in the 11th minute against Real Salt Lake.

The new star complained it was too cold.

But he warmed up some Chicago Fire fans’ hearts quickly.

New Fire forward Nemanja Nikolic, who scored 41 goals in 56 games for Legia Warsaw, made his Toyota Park debut and, at 28 degrees, it was the coldest home opener in the history of the team.

“The conditions were very difficult for me,’’ he said. “It’s a lot of wind, it’s too cold. I need to adapt to this. It’s not the same as in Europe.’’

Imagine how good this guy might be when the weather warms up. He warmed up to the crowd in Bridgeview

right away in the 11th minute as he scored his first MSL goal to help the Fire beat Real Salt Lake 2-0 in front of an announced crowd of 13,024.

Nikolic’s one-on-one finish was aided when Michael de Leeuw carried the ball forward near midfield, and Real Salt Lake midfielder Sunny (yes, that’s his name) stepped in to make a tackle, but hit the ball past his back line and into the path of Nikolic. While most on the players stopped with an offside call on their mind, Nikolic continued forward and slotted his shot past goalkeeper Nick Rimando.

“I think it was very important for him and the team to score his first goal on his first opportunity,’’ Fire coach Veljko Paunovic said. “We believe that he is doing a huge job and effort to help

Commercial Loans Made Easy We have a variety of loans to fit your banking needs. Contact our Loan Officers to discuss your options today!

• Letters of Credit • Lines of Credit

• Building Expansion • Building Acquisitions

• Commercial Mortgage Loans • Auto and Truck Loans

Contact John Hyland, President; Kenneth Shapiro; or Robert Holik today!

12330 S. Harlem Ave., Palos Heights, IL 60463 • (708) 728-9900 • Fax (708) 728-9270 • UTBHome.com

the team when the team is in a situation where we have to defend, we have to press, and his commitment is great and it is very important to see him have a good game. We also believe that as the season will start moving forward, we believe he will become even sharper and have more opportunities and maybe he can get one more goal.”

The Fire (1-0-1) received its other goal from Arturo Alvarez at the 15-minute mark after the ball hit an RLS defender and deflected away from Rimando, whose team fell to 0-1-1.

The Fire defense stayed busy the rest of the way and goalie Jorge Bava earned his first MLS shutout.

But it’s Nikolic who is giving fans See FIRE, Page 2

2

Section 2 Thursday, March 16, 2017

The Regional News - The Reporter

CHICAGO FIRE NOTEBOOK

FOCUS ON AREA COLLEGES

It’s no misprint: Cyclones baseball team wins 26-24

By Jeff Vorva Sports Editor

Photos by Jeff Vorva

The Fire’s starting 11 pose before the home opener at Toyota Park before beating Real Salt Lake 2-0 Saturday, giving the team its best two-game start since 2012.

Fire takes four-point stance after two matches

By Jeff Vorva Sports Editor

After two games this season, the Chicago Fire has racked up four points thanks in part to Saturday’s 2-0 victory over Real Salt Lake in the home opener at Toyota Park.

It’s the first time the Fire opened the season with four points in its first two games since 2012, when it tied Montreal 1-1 on the road and beat Philadelphia 1-0 at Toyota Park.

That was the last time the Fire made it to the Major League Soccer playoffs.

No one is predicting a playoff appearance for a team that has had the worst MLS record in the past two seasons, but the Fire is feeling pretty good after forging a 1-1 tie at Columbus on March 4 and winning at home.

“We keep growing,’’ second-year coach Veljklo Paunovic said. “I think confidence is important and I think it’s there but I think we still need to keep growing and I think it’s important in the next coming games to repeat the game performances that we have in the first two games but be even more solid, more dangerous, and efficient in attack.

“We have to know how to play these kinds of games and I think we showed that we have the maturity.’’

On the shelf Shortly before the home opener, the Fire received bad news that midfielder John Goossens will miss five or six months after he had surgery Friday to repair an Osteochondral defect of the talus and deltoid ligament sprain in his right ankle.

“John’s injury is cruel, particularly given the effort he was making on the play in added time (in a 1-1 tie at Columbus on March 4),” said Fire general manager Nelson Rodríguez. “We’re sure he will work to return to the field this season and find ways to contribute to the team in the interim.’’

David Arshakyan (right thigh strain) and Matt Polster (right knee strain) were also unavailable for Saturday’s game.

The new guys Three Fire players made their club debuts — Juninho and second-half substitutes Brandt Bronico and Homegrown Player Djordje Mihailovic.

Juninho missed the Columbus game as he was serving a suspension for a red card he received in a match in Mexico. He was able to tag-team with newcomer Dax McCarty for the first time in an official MLS game.

“I think their leadership, their commitment and consistency in hard work and winning all these drills and battles we had in the midfield were rewarding,’’ Paunovic said. “They are contagious, Juninho and Dax, for the rest of the team. And that mentality — it’s getting all over the team and

Arturo Alvarez moves the ball around seconds before scoring the Fire’s second goal of the game in a 2-0 victory over Real Salt Lake.

CHICAGO FIRE AT ATLANTA UNITED WHEN: 3 p.m., Saturday WHERE: Bobby Dodd Stadium, Atlanta FIRE RECORD: 1-0-1 ATLANTA RECORD: 1-1-0 NOTEWORTHY: This is the first meeting between the Fire and the expansion Atlanta club. Atlanta scored a 6-1 victory over Minnesota on Sunday as Josef Martinez scored three goals.

it’s very important for us.

“Everyone else understood when we were up 2-0 how we had to play and what we had to do and I love that determination that we had when we were up 2-0, we aren’t going to concede goals and concede chances and the team worked hard, no matter what.”

Coaching staff gets stronger The Fire named Raphael Fevre as strength and conditioning coach.

Fevre joins the Fire from Ligue 2 side Paris FC, having spent time in France’s top flight with SC Bastia, Valenciennes FC, Stade Brestois 29 and Paris Saint-Germain.

Fevre’s experience also includes time with the Oman Men’s National Team in the side’s preparations for FIFA 2014 World Cup Qualifying matches.

Moraine Valley Community College baseball coach Hugh Dennehy watched his team give up 24 runs in a road game March 8 against Triton.

He also watched his team celebrate a victory — his first as a collegiate coach.

This is no misprint: The Cyclones beat Triton 26-24 in a four-hour game on a cold and windy day in River Grove.

“That was insane,” the coach said. “In all my life, I have never seen anything like that. I’m 50 years old and I’ve played ball since I was eight and never saw a game like that. It was an incredible game. I’m telling you I will never forget this game for the rest of my life.’’

The Cyclones had 24 hits, nine stolen bases and five extra base hits.

They had an 18-5 lead in the top of the fifth inning and allowed 12 runs in the bottom of the frame to set up a wild ending.

Matt Richards, a Sandburg graduate, went 3-for-4 with two doubles, five runs, five RBI, and three stolen bases. Robert Peterka (Shepard), Alan Sanchez (Richards), Jack Collins (St. Rita), Alex Guerra (LincolnWay Central), Gil Loza (Reavis), Lael Robles (Reavis), and Liam Dennehy (Mt. Carmel) each had multi-hit games.

The Cyclones came off of two trips to Tennessee and Indiana and played a stacked field of teams and finished 0-8.

“I wanted these boys to play the best,” the coach said. “We have a pretty good team but I think we need to get a little bit better mentally. But we’re starting to see improvements. I think we will have a good season.’’

Softball: The Cyclones held a preseason clinic for young players at the Oak Lawn Park Dis-

Supplied photo

Moraine Valley softball player Kortney Chase helps teach a young player about baserunning during a recent clinic.

trict in late February.

More than 100 players ages 5 to 14 learned from coach Natalie Wigginton and her troops during the two-hour clinic.

“I want to be a teacher and it’s my favorite thing to be able to show what I’ve learned throughout the years from my amazing coaches and to pass it along,’’ freshman Hayley Franks, a Marist graduate, said. “I think it was really great that the whole team helped because we are such a close group and getting better at working together this season. This was another thing we can use to our advantage to communicate and work together in a different way than just on the field.’’

Trinity Christian College Baseball: The Trolls wrapped up a spring Florida trip with a 5-3 mark and are 12-10 overall after splitting with Concordia (Mich.) by winning the first game 7-5 and losing the second, 11-4 on Sunday. Tyler Sroczynski drove in three runs in the first game and Austin Wood drove home

two in the win.

Men’s volleyball: Trinity finished 1-2 in the Campbellsville Invitational with the win coming in a wild five-set battle with the hosts. The Trolls (8-10) were led by Nick Costa’s 17 kills in the victory. Johnathan Poortinga had eight blocks.

St. Xavier University Men’s volleyball: The Cougars fell to 5-12 after dropping two matches at the Graceland University Triangular on Saturday. Sean Barry had 18 kills on the day while Evergreen Park native Dan O’Keefe hade eight kills and nine digs. Aaron Kummer (a Marist graduate) had 35 assists.

Softball: SXU, which was ranked second in the nation in the preseason, finished competition at the PFX Spring Games in Clermont, Fla., beating Cornerstone University 8-1 and losing to Grace College, 6-0 on Saturday. Pitcher Callie Brown struck out 13 hitters in the opener while Amanda Ruskowski had four hits including a grand slam for the Cougars (9-7).

FOCUS ON HIGH SCHOOL AND COMMUNITY SPORTS

Olympians come to Southwest CC Southwest Chicago Christian School in Oak Lawn welcomed Olympians, Shannon Boxx and Tucker Dupree Feb. 27 to the school as part of the Proctor and Gamble Golden School Year Sweepstakes.

A grandparent of a student of the school entered the school in the sweepstakes, and the school received a $10,000 check from Proctor and Gamble, as well as the visit from Boxx and Dupree to discuss their time in sports

Get The BEST GUN PRICES In Illinois!

Don’t Pay “Crook” County Taxes of $25 per gun and 5¢ per bullet?

and school, overcoming obstacles, and their Olympic experiences with students.

Palos Park rec softball Palos Park is offering a 14inch coed softball league.

This non-competitive league will consist of an eight-game regular season schedule, with the top four teams advancing to the playoffs. Each team is required to have four female and five male players on the field at all times. Rosters are limited to 18 players.

The fee is $500 per team.

Games will be played in the evenings at Centennial Park located at 12216 S. Will Cook Rd. on Wednesdays from April 12 to May 31. The registration deadline is March 31. For additional information, call 708-671-3760.

Sandburg creates athletic hall of fame Carl Sandburg High School created an Athletic Hall of Fame

to recognize and honor Eagle athletes, coaches, and supporters who have excelled in their respective sports or coaching and supporting roles.

School officials invite members of the community to nominate former athletes, coaches, and supporters who should be considered. Nomination forms can be found on the Carl Sandburg High School website, http:// sandburg.d230.org, under the Athletics tab. All nominations should be submitted electronically and must be submitted no later than May 1. A selection committee made up of nine individuals will meet to vote on each nominee at the end of May and the first class of inductees will be notified in June.

The inaugural class of inductees will be recognized at a ceremony at the school on Nov. 3.

— We welcome community news at sports@regionalpublishing. com

S H OP

o AlmostWholesaleGuns.com WE NOW OFFER GUNSMITHING!

Install Sights • Gun Repair • Cleaning Cerakote Coatings any color you want Fast 1 Week or Less Turnaround • Done On Site

NEED CASH? We Buy, Sell, Trade & Transfer Guns

AR-15 s IN STOCK! 7545 S. Madison St., Burr Ridge, IL 60527

Enter through front main entrance Just a few minutes from I-294 & I-55 or Rt. 53 & I-55

Glock G17 Supplied photo

Olympians Shannon Boxx, back-row left, and Tucker Dupree pose with kindergartners at Southwest Chicago Christian during a recent visit.

Springfield X

Ruger LC380

630-863-1379

sales@almostwholesaleguns.com

Hours: Mon. 9-6; Tues. 9-8; Wed. Closed; Thurs. 9-8; Fri. 9-6; Sat. & Sun. 9-2

Fire

Continued from Page 1 the most hope after the team finished with an MLS-worst record two years in a row. When he arrived in Chicago, dozens of fans greeted him at O’Hare International Airport in January.

“MLS is a new challenge for me,” he said. “I wanted to try something new. I decided to come here because of the project, because I spoke with our coach Pauno and with (general manager) Nelson Rodriguez.

They were really motivated and they wanted to achieve something this year, they want to invest in the club. After the conversation with Pauno, I was sure I wanted to come here and help him. I look forward to achieving good results here.

“This was my first game in Toyota Park, and my first goal and first victory in Chicago is wonderful. I expect more of this.

It is very important to win at home. We start the season with four points, it gives us confidence. We need to stay focused, we need to work, we need to have an identity.’’

The Regional News - The Reporter

3

Thursday, March 16, 2017 Section 2

Season’s over for area hoops teams

Several teams flipped the switch in 2016-17

Verge’s surge helps Thornton knock out Brother Rice

T

By Jeff Vorva Sports Editor

Brother Rice was on the verge of something big this season as the Crusaders were eyeing a spot in the sectional finals for the first time since 2005.

But Thornton star Alonzo Verge had other ideas.

While he didn’t torch the Crusaders for 43 points as he did to Bloom in the Class 4A Richards Regional final, Verge had a steal-turned-layup and a couple of free throws in the final 12 seconds of Thornton’s 64-58 victory over Brother Rice on March 8 at the Thornwood Sectional semifinals.

One moment, the Crusaders (25-6) had the ball with a chance to either win the game or send it to overtime. After Verge’s surge, they walked off the court stunned.

“It was a great basketball game and that’s what you want in a sectional final,” Brother Rice coach Bobby Frasor said. “But it stinks being on this side of it. I was proud of our guys, the way they got back into it. We had some good looks late in the game and they just didn’t go down.

Sometimes the shots just don’t go down like they normally do.’’

Verge who missed nine 3-point attempts and threw up some air balls against the Crusaders, finished with 25 points, 11 rebounds and seven assists.

He had just two points after the first quarter.

The lead changed hands a number of times and Brother Rice led 34-30 at halftime and 47-46 heading into the final frame.

Mike Shepski, who is heading to Bemidji State next year, closed his high school career with 25 points, including four 3-point baskets, and added three steals.

Josh Niego, who is undecided about his college choice, finished with 12 points and four assists. It was Niego who was the key in the Crusaders winning their first regional title since 2008 as he scored 15 of his 27 points in the fourth quarter of a 57-50 victory over host Homewood-Flossmoor, but the points were not coming as easily for him against Thornton.

Top-seeded Simeon, which knocked out Shepard in regional play and Marist in the sectional semifinals on March 7, beat Thornton 69-52 in the sectional final Friday.

The Crusaders are hoping this season is the start of something big, but next season will present some questions that need to be answered because they graduate quite a bit of firepower.

Aside from Niego and Shepski, the Crusaders will graduate Tyler Houston, Jack O’Connor, Griffin Leslie, Sheldun Benn, Shelby Benn and Vito Calace.

Juniors on this year’s roster who could make an impact next season are Ryan Kellogg, Josh Boulanger, Mike Furlong Matt Fitzpatrick, Brendan Coghlan,

he final seconds ticked off the clock and Brother Rice, the last area high school basketball team alive, was trailing 64-58 to Thornton in the Class 4A Thornwood Sectional and Josh Niego had the ball.

Rather than fire a downJEFF VORVA pass court to a Making the teammate Extra Point for a possible quick score, Niego just flipped the ball behind him as the buzzer signaled the end of the 2017-18 season for high school hoops teams in the Reporter-Regional area.

Speaking of flipping — when all was said and done, many boys and girls teams flipped their fortunes for the better in 2016-17 compared to 2015-16.

I don’t like to overload people with numbers, but this is worth the overloading. The improvements were remarkable.

As a whole, our 10 boys teams finished 178-115 — a .608 winning percentage — as opposed to 147-135 (.521) a season ago.

The girls had an even bigger spike. After going 127-164 (.436) in 2015-16, the 10 girls teams rocketed up to 180-120 (.600) this season.

The boys had six teams — Brother Rice, Evergreen Park, Marist, Sandburg, Shepard and Stagg — post better records this season. The girls had eight — Chicago Christian, Evergreen Park, Marist, Mother McAuley, Oak Lawn, Queen of Peace, Shepard and Stagg — enjoy better ledgers.

The biggest flip for the boys was Evergreen Park, which went from 10-17 to 18-10.

The biggest flip for the girls was Chicago Christian, which went from 8-20 to 19-9, but Evergreen Park was not far behind, flipping from 12-15 to 21-8.

While only Marist won 20 or more games for the girls in the area last season, this season found four teams with 20 or more — Marist, Mother McAuley, Evergreen Park and Queen of Peace.

Kudos to both of Shepard’s teams for remarkable improvements from season to season.

The Astros boys suffered

Photos by Jeff Vorva

Dejected Brother Rice players Josh Boulanger, left, and Mike Shepski leave the court after the horn sounds in their sectional semifinal loss to Thornton on March 8.

Alonzo Verge of Thornton struggled in the first quarter but became a force the rest of the way including scoring four points in the final 12 seconds of his team’s 64-58 victory over Brother Rice.

Nick Bowes and Matt Plumb.

Frasor, a former Brother Rice hoops star who completed his second year as coach, said that a box out here or a fallen shot there would have made a difference in the Thornton game, but he didn’t dwell on it. He said that looking back on a successful season was the way to go.

“That’s all I was talking about in there (the locker room),’’ he said. “I talked about how proud I am and how much fun it was to come back and coach on the high school level. I’ve had so much fun the past two years.

“Brother Rice has such a storied history in basketball that to be up there in those ranks — winning 25 games, winning the Catholic League (South) championship and winning the regional — it’s pretty cool and pretty special for them. Hopefully they can look back and one day say how much they enjoyed it.’’

Cyclones

Continued from Page 1 in the field is top-seeded Kirkwood (Iowa), which heads into the tournament with a 33-0 mark and is averaging 82 points per game.

“We feel we can win it — we really, really feel that,” MVCC coach Delwyn Jones said. “We’re not satisfied with just winning a regional. I’ve had a chance to see Kirkwood play and we feel we can play with them. They present a lot of different challenges. It will be difficult but, hey, we have some players who can play a little bit, too. We really do. I would not label us a favorite but we’re good enough where we can beat them.’’

The sixth-seeded Cyclones (16-17 due to 15 forfeits mandated by the NJCAA for using ineligible players) beat Waubonsee 86-66 on Feb. 28 and Morton 87-64 in the first two Region IV tournament games but had a week layoff before tackling No. 1 Illinois Valley (which finished 21-10).

Record

Continued from Page 1 So let’s go with 16-17… for now.

The Cyclones picked up the 10th seed and will face seventh-seeded Kalamazoo Valley, Mich.

(28-3, 20-game winning streak) at 1 p.m. Tuesday.

The only unbeaten team in the field is top-seeded Kirkwood (Iowa), which heads into the tournament with a 33-0 mark and is averaging 82 points per game.

Jones is not happy. He said the school was not

SXU

Continued from Page 1

Brother Rice’s Josh Niego scored 12 points against Thornton but the Wildcats never made it easy on him in the sectional semifinal at Thornwood.

“It was a long time — we were getting pretty anxious,” Drynan said. “This was one of the best games I’ve played. I wanted to go out there and give it my all.’’

“Honestly, I think the layoff was a little too long,” said Borgen, who had 22 points and five rebounds in the Region IV title game. “After the semifinal, we were like ‘OK, we’re ready for the championship.’ It was hard to keep our focus all week. We had good practices. Some were better than others. That’s just a given.’’

There wasn’t much rust for the Cyclones against Illinois Valley as they led 20-12 after the first period and 47-34 at halftime.

Drynan was named the tournament’s MVP and joined Borgen and guard Diamond Dortch on the all-tournament team. Jones was named District IV Coach of the Year.

This is the third time in school history the Cyclones made it to the nationals. Their previous trips were back-to-back appearances in 1988 and 1989. trying to cheat and that the problem was a paperwork error.

“We don’t think it’s fair,” Jones said. “We always do things the right way and there was no (bad) intent whatsoever. It took a lot away from these young ladies. They have fought and have never given up.

We feel the world is against us and tried to take away some things we felt we earned legitimately. ’’I’m disappointed in the NJCAA. Hey, these are very minor infractions and I’m still a little bitter about it to be honest with you — I’m bitter for these young ladies who have worked so hard only to have it taken away from them.’’

Cougars never looked back.

Junior center Collins continued to be a force on the glass as she pulled down a teamhigh 11 rebounds — 10 on the defensive end. She also scored 18 points on the night to log her 20th double-double of the season.

Concordia, making its second national semifinal in three years, was led by junior Dani Andersen who recorded a team-high 21 points.

Collins had 21 points and a career-best 23 rebounds in a 69-53 victory over the College of the Ozarks in the quarterfinals Saturday to reach the Final Four.

SXU never trailed and led by as many as 24 points (33-9) in the second quarter. Collins became just the second player in Saint Xavier women’s basketball history to grab 20 or more rebounds and score 20 or more points in a game.

Freshman forward Chanel Fanter added 12 points, six rebounds and three blocks to aid the victory.

The Cougars set all kinds of records and milestones in a 96-66 over Friends University (Kan.) in the second round on Friday night. The team set a record for wins (32) and Krolicki became just the second player in program history to go over 2,000 points for her career as she scored 29 points. Morgan Stuut (2011-15) is the only other player in Cougar history to hit that mark. Senior Leyden set a single-game Cougars record for assists with 13 and broke the SXU career mark with 511.

The Cougars got off to a slow start falling behind by as many as seven points (12-5) near the midpoint of the first quarter but the team righted the ship and dominated the rest of the way.

Photos by Jeff Vorva

Evergreen Park’s Kyree Hannah, left, and his teammates went from 1017 in 2015-16 to 18-10 and won the South Suburban Red title this year.

FINAL AREA HOOPS RECORDS BOYS

W-L Streak

Brother Rice 25-6 Chicago Christian 20-8 Evergreen Park 18-10 Marist 27-4 Oak Lawn 11-18 Richards 13-15 St. Laurence 13-16 Sandburg 13-14 Shepard 13-15 Stagg 18-9 GIRLS

L1 L1 L1 L1 L1 L1 L1 L5 L1 L1

W-L Streak

Chicago Christian 19-9 L1 Evergreen Park 21-8 L1 Marist 28-5 L1 Mother McAuley 22-9 L1 Oak Lawn 17-14 L1 of Peace Queen 28-4 L1 Jill Van Dyke and Chicago Christian Richards 13-14 L1 enjoyed a 19-9 fin sh this year after Sandburg 11-18 L1 an 8-20 mark last season.

Shepard 10-22 L1 through a 5-22 campaign last Stagg 11-17 L1 season and improved to 13-15.

— Compiled by Jeff Vorva The girls went from 2-27 to 10-22. Stagg’s girls went from 3-25 to 11-17.

So it’s been a good step up I’ve been harping on the for our teams. It would be great fact that the boys have come if they can ratchet it up for an up with just one regional title even bigger improvement in in the previous three years, 2017-18, but that might be askand this year we had two, with ing for too much. There are too Marist and Brother Rice. many teams losing big-time We also had three girls teams players to expect that. win regionals — Mother McAuBut in this area, you never ley, Marist and Queen of Peace. know.

The team opened the nationals with a 100-61 victory over Indiana University-Kokomo as Collins had 24 points and 12 rebounds. The team shot

63 percent from the field, with Collins dropping 11 of her 12 shots. It was the 12th time this season the Cougars scored in triple figures.

708-422-8000

9204 S. Western • Evergreen Park thecrazycrabchicago.com

Traditional Cajun Seafood Boil Crab • Lobster Shrimp • Crawfish

Variety of Original Appetizers and More!

• CRAFTED WITH LOVE • FAMILY OWNED • OVER 10,000 CUSTOMERS SERVED!

OPEN DAILY 12 p.m. to 10 p.m.

WE’RE HIRING!

10% Off ANY SIZE ORDER MONDAY – WEDNESDAY

4

Section 2 Thursday, March 16, 2017

The Regional News - The Reporter

Images from Fire home opener and fired-up MVCC hoops team

Flags dominated the Latino section of Toyota Park during the Fire’s home opener.

Nemanja Nikolic tries to control the ball in the Fire’s home opening victory Saturday at Toyota Park in Bridgeview.

Left photo: Fire fans at the north end of Toyota Park cover themselves seconds after Nemanja Nikolic scores in a 2-0 victory over Real Salt Lake. Above: While it wasn’t quite a St. Patrick’s Day parade, this parade formed in the west parking lot at Toyota Park before Saturday’s Fire home opener.

Fire players escorted kids to the field at Toyota Park before Chicago’s home opener with Real Salt Lake.

Hair is flying as Chantel Brown, a former Argo standout, and her teammates celebrate Moraine Valley’s Region IV tournament title.

Moraine Valley players huddle and shout “Nationals!” after winning the Region IV Tournament Saturday at Waubonsee Community College in Sugar Grove.

Michelle Borgen of Moraine Valley was named to the All-Region IV Tournament Team.

Photos by Jeff Vorva Moraine Valley guard Diamond Dortch was named to the All-Region IV Tournament Team.

The Regional News - The Reporter

Thursday, March 16, 2017 Section 2

448-6161

POTENTIAL TO BECOME SPECTACULAR! SUPERB QUALITY, GRACEFUL DETAILING California style ranch on wooded AND .8+ acrePERFECTION across from Forest THRUOUT EACH ROOM!

Save this ad for a FREE Market Analysis!

This outstanding Park hillside home Preserves awaits Palos your talents!

4 bdrms, 3 baths, 35x25 master w/5 bdrms, 5-1/2walkout baths, gorgeous bsmtw/own w/office.

Being soldwalk-in “As Is� closets suite deck, sauna, $319,900 in 4 bdrms, plus out-of-this world kitchen, will meet every expectation! $990,000

5

448-4000

HAVE A HOUSE FOR SALE? PLACE AN AD TODAY!

34

A Palos resident since 1963

708.448.6100

BHHSBlount.com Serving the Palos area for over 50 years

Your Palos Realtor

708-369-9327

“Follows Me Everywhere!�

For Sale

For Sale

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

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT - CHANCERY DIVISION GREEN TREE SERVICING LLC Plaintiff, -v.SIE KHALIL Defendants 12 CH 39434 10619 SOUTH TOD DRIVE PALOS HILLS, IL 60465 NOTICE OF SALE PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above cause on March 10, 2016, an agent for The Judicial Sales Corporation, will at 10:30 AM on April 26, 2017, at The Judicial Sales Corporation, One South Wacker Drive - 24th Floor, CHICAGO, IL, 60606, sell at public auction to the highest bidder, as set forth below, the following described real estate: Commonly known as 10619 SOUTH TOD DRIVE, PALOS HILLS, IL 60465 Property Index No. 23-13-113-006-0000. The real estate is improved with a red brick split level single family home; two car 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, including the Judicial sale fee for Abandoned Residential Property Municipality Relief Fund, which is calculated on residential real estate at the rate of $1 for each $1,000 or fraction thereof of the amount paid by the purchaser not to exceed $300, in certified funds/or wire transfer, is due within twenty-four (24) hours. No fee shall be paid by the mortgagee acquiring the residential real estate pursuant to its credit bid at the sale or by any mortgagee, judgment creditor, or other lienor acquiring the residential real estate whose rights in and to the residential real estate arose prior to the sale.

The subject property is subject to general real estate taxes, special assessments, or special taxes levied against said real estate and is offered for sale without any representation as to quality or quantity of title and without recourse to Plaintiff and in \�AS IS\� condition.

The sale is further subject to confirmation by the court.

Upon payment in full of the amount bid, the purchaser will receive a Certificate of Sale that will entitle the purchaser to a deed to the real estate after confirmation of the sale. The property will NOT be open for inspection and plaintiff makes no representation as to the condition of the property.

Prospective bidders are admonished to check the court file to verify all information. If this property is a condominium unit, the purchaser of the unit at the foreclosure sale, other than a mortgagee, shall pay the assessments and the legal fees required by The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/9(g)(1) and (g)(4). If this property is a condominium unit which is part of a common interest community, the purchaser of the unit at the foreclosure sale other than a mortgagee shall pay the assessments required by The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/18.5(g-1). IF YOU ARE THE MORTGAGOR (HOMEOWNER), YOU HAVE THE RIGHT TO REMAIN IN POSSESSION FOR 30 DAYS AFTER ENTRY OF AN ORDER OF POSSESSION, IN ACCORDANCE WITH SECTION 15-1701(C) OF THE ILLINOIS MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE LAW. You will need a photo identification issued by a government agency (driver’s license, passport, etc.) in order to gain entry into our building and the foreclosure sale room in Cook County and the same identification for sales held at other county venues where The Judicial Sales Corporation conducts foreclosure sales. For information: Visit our website at service.atty-pierce.com. between the hours of 3 and 5 pm. PIERCE & ASSOCIATES, Plaintiff’s Attorneys, One North Dearborn Street Suite 1300, CHICAGO, IL 60602. Tel No. (312) 476-5500.

Please refer to file number 12339.

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.

PIERCE & ASSOCIATES One North Dearborn Street Suite 1300 CHICAGO, IL 60602 (312) 476-5500 E-Mail: pleadings@pierceservices.com Attorney File No. 12339 Attorney Code. 60489 Case Number: 12 CH 39434 TJSC#: 36-12989 I713562

WELLS FARGO BANK N.A., AS TRUSTEE, FOR CARRINGTON MORTGAGE LOAN TRUST, SERIES 2006-NC4 ASSET-BACKED PASSTHROUGH CERTIFICATES Plaintiff, -v.MICHAEL HOLDEN, ANGELA BOROWSKI, HOUSEHOLD FINANCE CORPORATION III, CITY OF CHICAGO, MIDLAND FUNDING LLC, CHASE BANK USA, N. A Defendants 15 CH 3521 10635 LOMBARD AVENUE Chicago Ridge, IL 60415 NOTICE OF SALE PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above cause on January 23, 2017, an agent for The Judicial Sales Corporation, will at 10:30 AM on April 24, 2017, at The Judicial Sales Corporation, One South Wacker Drive - 24th Floor, CHICAGO, IL, 60606, sell at public auction to the highest bidder, as set forth below, the following described real estate: Commonly known as 10635 LOMBARD AVENUE, Chicago Ridge, IL 60415 Property Index No. 24-17-122-010-0000.

The real estate is improved with a single family residence.

The judgment amount was $254,816.57.

Sale terms: 25% down of the highest bid by certified funds at the close of the sale payable to The Judicial Sales Corporation. No third party checks will be accepted. The balance, including the Judicial sale fee for Abandoned Residential Property Municipality Relief Fund, which is calculated on residential real estate at the rate of $1 for each $1,000 or fraction thereof of the amount paid by the purchaser not to exceed $300, in certified funds/or wire transfer, is due within twenty-four (24) hours.

No fee shall be paid by the mortgagee acquiring the residential real estate pursuant to its credit bid at the sale or by any mortgagee, judgment creditor, or other lienor acquiring the residential real estate whose rights in and to the residential real estate arose prior to the sale. The subject property is subject to general real estate taxes, special assessments, or special taxes levied against said real estate and is offered for sale without any representation as to quality or quantity of title and without recourse to Plaintiff and in AS IS condition. The sale is further subject to confirmation by the court.

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

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

If this property is a condominium unit, or a 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 and the legal fees required by The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/9(g)(1) and (g)(4). In accordance with 735 ILCS 5/15-1507(c)(1)(h-1) and (h-2), 765 ILCS 605/9(g)(5), and 765 ILCS 605/18.5(g-1), you are hereby notified that the purchaser of the property, other than a mortgagee, shall pay the assessments and legal fees required by subsections (g)(1) and (g)(4) of section 9 and the assessments required by subsection (g-1) of section 18.5 of the Illinois Condominium Property Act. IF YOU ARE THE MORTGAGOR (HOMEOWNER), YOU HAVE THE RIGHT TO REMAIN IN POSSESSION FOR 30 DAYS AFTER ENTRY OF AN ORDER OF POSSESSION, IN ACCORDANCE WITH SECTION 15-1701(C) OF THE ILLINOIS MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE LAW. You will need a photo identification issued by a government agency (driver’s license, passport, etc.) in order to gain entry into our building and the foreclosure sale room in Cook County and the same identification for sales held at other county venues where The Judicial Sales Corporation conducts foreclosure sales.

For information, contact the sales department, ANSELMO LINDBERG OLIVER LLC, 1771 W. Diehl Road, Suite 120, NAPERVILLE, IL 60563, (630) 453-6960 For bidding instructions, visit www.fal-illinois.com. Please refer to file number F14100121.

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.

ANSELMO LINDBERG OLIVER LLC 1771 W. Diehl Road, Suite 120 NAPERVILLE, IL 60563 (630) 453-6960 E-Mail: foreclosurenotice@fal-illinois.com Attorney File No. F14100121 Attorney ARDC No. 3126232 Attorney Code. 58852 Case Number: 15 CH 3521 TJSC#: 37-1038 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.

Printed on recycled paper— Please recycle your Newspaper

ÂŽ

“10 in the Park�

NEW as of 7/7/11 For Sale

5 ACRES RT. 45 IN PEOTONE 600 ft. frontage x 400 ft. deep 40 ft. x 60 ft. pole barn CALL 815-450-0004 For Sale

ORLAND PARK RESIDENTIALÂ LOT (.47 acre)

13520 South Elm Ideal for ranch walk-out build High elevation with stunning sunset views Topo available - must see to appreciate $149,900 Contact Owner @ (312) 835-1245

DumpsterNP_5_6875x7.indd 1

5/6/11 2:21 PM

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.

We’re P art Part of Y our Your Community We understand what this community means to you and your family.

It means security.

Togetherness. Strength. Caring. Friendship.

This community is a place where you matter.

This community is where you make a difference in peoples’ lives. We share these values. It’s our job to make sure you understand what’s happening in your community by bringing the issues that matter most to you clearly and responsibly.

It’s a job we take seriously.

We’re proud to be a part of your community and prouder still to call you our neighbor.

Call Today For Your Mail Subscription!

THE The

Regional News REGIONAL NEWS Serving this area since 1941 The Reporter

12243 South Harlem Avenue Palos Heights, Illinois 60463-0932 Call (708) 448-4001

708-448-4000 | 708-448-6161

OpenOpen Monday-Friday 9 a.m.-5 Mon.- Fri. 9-5 — Sat. 9-Noon p.m.

40% OF FOOD IN AMERICA IS WASTED

ngs� x 7�

12

6

Section 2 Thursday, March 16, 2017

448-6161

The Regional News - The Reporter

448-4000

Wanted

Advertise in the classifieds!

SNOWBLOWERS,

small engines, regular and riding lawnmowers, bicycles.

Call today 448-4000

Reasonably priced or free.

Call (815) 450-0004

Asphalt Paving

Construction

C&C

LUSKEY CONSTRUCTION

Family Owned & Operated Business Since 1982

27 Years Experience Licensed and Bonded

Asphalt Paving Inc. Complete Residential & Commercial Service Your Complete Paving Contractor (708)

425-0410

MEMBER BETTER BUSINESS BUREAU

CHOOSE CAR SEAT:

BY AGE & SIZE

Cleaning Services

WHO ACTUALLY DO.

(312) 437-3969 Landscaping

NEED LAWN SERVICES?

Prompt and Reliable Customer Service

THEY HAVE THEIR CHILD IN THE RIGHT SEAT.

KNOW FOR SURE

IF YOUR CHILD IS IN THE RIGHT CAR SEAT.

count!

Reasonable Dis Town in Lowest Prices

BROTHERS TREE SERVICE Stump Removal - Tree Removal Licensed and Bond 773-239-3570 Senior Citizen Discount 708-913-8968

GEORGE’S GEORGE’S

PLUMBING & SEWER

Flood Control Specialists All Types of Plumbing Repairs • • • • • •

Hot water tanks • Bathroom installations Toilets, Tubs, Sinks & Faucets Sewers rodded • Sump pumps Sewers inspected by camera Foundation leaks repaired Battery back-up systems

FREE ESTIMATES (most cases) Quality Work - Reasonable Prices 40 years experience -Lic. #SL574

708.952.1833

Snowblower Repair

Snow Blowers Lawn Mowers

Reasonable Rates

www.threebrotherslandscaping.net

Tree Service

Plumbing & Sewer

Will fix at your house

Certified • Fully Insured Licensed • Bonded

Stan’s Hauling

Repair/Tune-Up

No Hidden Costs or Fees

Removal of all unwanted items.

From homes, offices, storage areas, garages, apartments, condos, etc.

7 days 773-206-9309 www.stanscleanout.com

Depend on an accredited company with the qualifications, resources, and professional management that has been getting the job done right for nearly 30 years

Clean-out Services

WHO THINK

448-4000

Garages • Decks Additions • Oak Floors

Commercial & Residential Maintenance Experts

THE ONES

THE NUMBER OF PEOPLE

448-6161

Help Wanted

(708)-687-8091

Call: (815) 450-0004

Lawn Maintenance

RELIABLE LAWN CARE Your Full Lawn Care Company Commercial & Residential Service Weekly Cuts • Fertilizing Power Raking • Hedge Trimming Cuts starting at $10 Senior Citizen Discounts Servicing Chicago & The Southwest Suburbs Over 16 Years Free Estimates • Top Quality Work Fully Insured

Call Jim 773-818-8235 or 779-245-3569

VISIT SAFERCAR.GOV/THERIGHTSEAT

Advertise in the Business & Service Directory!

Call today 448-4000

Plumbing & Sewer

This Newspaper is Recyclable Remodeling

AGX-2A002E 5.6875x7 BWNP.indd Version Paper Proof# Line Screen Edit Round Print/Export Printed at: Galley: PDF Sent To:

FPO until convert Newsprint 0 85 8 5-2-2012 11:58 AM 0.6% 1

Initials

Studio Manager Proofreader Art Director Copywriter Creative Director Production Manager Account Executive Client

S. Gordon Henry N. Chambers S. Lundberg None J. Adler-Kerekes S. Pollitt Ad Council

Fonts: None Placed Images: AGX-2A002E stacking rings 5.6875x7_BW_Ć’.ai (Up to Date; 100.05%)

Notes: None

Date

FATHER & DAUGHTERS REMODELING

This Advertisement Created by

Not affiliated with Ron Kafka & Father & Sons

WINTER Special 1/3 OFF • Bathrooms • Kitchens • Rec Rooms • Attics • Flooring

• General Repairs • Garage Repairs • Decks • Windows • Doors

• Porches • Dormers • Roofs • Concrete • Tuckpointing

• Siding • Soffit Fascia • Gutters • Electrical • Plumbing

FREE Architectural Drawings and Permit with Room Addition Purchase Free Estimates Guaranteed Work Full Insured

708-795-6940

Senior Discount Veteran Discount Licensed & Bonded

STARTING A BUSINESS? NEED ADVERTISING THAT WILL STRETCH YOUR DOLLAR? LET US HELP SPREAD THE WORD! Newspaper advertising works! Your business picks up when our readers pick up our newspaper.

Call our Advertising Department Today!

The Regional News | The Reporter 708-448-4000 | 708-448-6161 Open Monday-Friday 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

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

OUT & ABOUT

The Regional News • The Reporter

Thursday, March 16, 2017

BROADEN YOUR HORIZONS

Southwest • Section 2, Page 7

WOLFGANG PUCK’S KITCHEN

McCord hosts gelatin mono printing workshop

A gelli printing plate class that uses a mono print technique without the use of a press is scheduled for 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, March 18 at the McCord Gallery and Cultural Center, 9602 West Creek Road, Palos Park.

Students will learn to apply acrylic paint to a gel printing plate, creating designs by pressing textured objects into the wet paint. Paper is then laid directly onto the painted surface, rubbed to transfer and removed to reveal a unique print, which can be used as a stand-alone print or paper for the collaging course.

The public is invited, and space is limited. Registration is $115 for members of McCord and $125 for non-members. For more information or to make a reservation, call (708) 671-0648.

Enjoy Rodgers and Hammerstein favorites at Trinity College

Tickets are still available to see and hear the Southwest Symphony Orchestra, the Grande Prairie Chorale and the Moraine Chorale performing favorites by Rodgers and Hammerstein at 4 p.m. Sunday, March 26 at the Trinity Christian College Ozinga Auditorium, 6601 W. College Drive in Palos Heights Soloists are Desirée Hassler, soprano; Samantha Attaguile, mezzo; John Concepcion, tenor; and Brad Jungwirth, baritone.

Tickets can be reserved by calling 708-802-0686 for will-call pickup, or by visiting the SSO website, www. southwestsymphony.com. Credit card orders can be placed by calling 1-800838-3006. Ticket may also be purchased at the door, if available.

Ticket prices in the Artist’s Circle are $26 for adults; $21 for seniors and $6 for students.

Open seating ticket prices are $21 for adults, $16 for seniors and $6 for students.

Children 12 years of age and under are free.

Landscape painting exhibit at McCord

“Natural, Supernatural, Artificial: The Landscapes of Stephen Moss” runs from Monday, March 20 to Monday, May 1 at the McCord Gallery and Cultural Center, 9602 West Creek Road, Palos Park.

Admission is free.

A reception to celebrate the exhibit of Moss’ works will be held from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Friday, March 31, 6:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.

Moss is an established landscape painter from Hammond, Ind. Besides painting, he has taught art in the southwest suburbs for the past 30 years, most of those years at Andrew, Stagg and Sandburg High Schools. His work is in numerous collections including the Indiana State Museum and has appeared in a variety of publications, including Art in America.

“One of the many amazing things about a Steve Moss landscape is how realistic it appears until one gets within about 15 feet of the painting… at which point it begins to deconstruct into a veil of colorful crystalline marks and

A student works on a creation in a stained glass class at The Center.

shapes,” according to a McCord publicity blurb.

The Center sets event slate

The Center, 12700 Southwest Highway, Palos Park, is offering several events in the days ahead.

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

• A “Lenten Labyrinth Journey” starts at 9 a.m. Saturday, March 18.

In preparation for Easter, participants will walk through the Forty Days of Lent and are invited to explore a spirituality of subtraction (a phrase coined by Fr. Richard Rohr). A spirituality of subtraction is a spirituality of letting go so that all might see what our hearts and souls truly desire. Free-will donations are accepted. Pre-registration is required.

• A Zentangle workshop runs from 2 to 4 p.m. Saturday, March 18. The Zentangle Method is said to be an easy-to-learn, relaxing and fun way to create beautiful images by drawing structured patterns. Workshop fee is $17, plus a $5 materials fee.

• A family worship service starts at 10 a.m. Sunday, March 19. Participants will gather indoors inside the Lodge on the west side of Southwest Highway for the service. Hospitality will be shared, because Jesus always ate with his friends.

• A “Spring Friendship Mandala Workshop” runs from 1 to 3 p.m. Monday, March 20. The first hour of class will be spent with instructor Robin Neumann learning the basics of mandala making and creating a small one.

The second hour all will create mandalas―round robin style. Each student will start a mandala and then pass it around for others to add to it. No experience is necessary, and all supplies will be provided.

Workshop fee is $17, plus a $5 materials fee.

• “Men’s POV” starts at 7 p.m.

Tuesday March 21. Steve Nold will be the discussion leader for the book “Inferno: The World at War, 1939-1945” by Max Hastings. New members are welcome.

• A stained-glass class runs from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Thursday, March 23 and continues for a total of six Thursdays. Instructor Harry Meneghini will help participants create stained-glass pieces, by learning the principles of glass design and color and the techniques of cutting and soldering, using both lead came and copper foil to join the pieces of glass.

Starting with simple projects, eventually students will design their own windows, pictures and lamps. Class fee is $100. A list of glass and supplies which will need to be purchased will be distributed the first day of class, or may be obtained at The Center office, but students are asked to wait until after the first class to make any purchases.

Bridge Teen Center provides free events

The Bridge Teen Center, 15555 S. 71st Ct., Orland Park, is offering several free events for teens in seventh through 12th grade in the week ahead. For more information on activities, call (708) 532-0500.

• “Around The World: English Tea Party” is scheduled for 4 to 5 p.m. Tuesday, March 21. Students will sample traditional scones, tea, sandwiches and desserts as they learn about tea etiquette and English culture.

• “The Science of Motion” will run from 4 to 6 p.m. Wednesday, March 22. Students will construct a Newton’s Cradle device by applying the concepts of conservation of momentum and energy, using a series of swinging spheres.

• “Drums” is set for 5 to 6 p.m.

Thursday, March 23. Students will play the drums and learn about how to keep a consistent tempo.

• “The Voice Night with open mic” starts at 7:30 p.m. Friday, March 24. Students will be able to sign up for a fusion of “The Voice,” and “Name That Tune.”

Free food samples will be provided

by TruGurt. This is a “high school after hours night. Grade school students must leave by 10:30 p.m., but high school students are invited to stay until midnight.

OMARR’S WEEKLY ASTROLOGICAL FORECAST

By Jeraldine Saunders ARIES (March 21-April 19): Your social instincts and intuitions might be at a low point in the first part of the week. Avoid making major purchases that require good taste. Put romantic notions on hold for a few days and focus on moneymaking activities.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): Make the most of your business acumen by working toward the achievement of long term goals in the upcoming week. Don’t pursue an impossible dream or a fantasy when a sure thing is sitting right under your nose.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): Live up to the challenge. Responsibilities at work or in the family can put you through your paces in the week ahead, but the rewards will be well worth it. Don’t let minor criticisms undermine your confidence.

CANCER (June 21-July 22): You may be inspired to expand creative efforts or make more peaceful choices in the week ahead. Your friends may influence your ideas and persuade you

to choose lasting values over immediate gratification.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): You have a flair for friendliness. Express brotherly love in all the right places to successfully blend business with pleasure in the week to come. Avoid impulsive buying sprees and you can turn talents and skills into cash.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): There is a Full Moon in the skies in your sign that can trigger selfexamination in the week ahead.

Avoid making purchases of personal items in the first half of the week when you are somewhat susceptible to flattery.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Get ready to wear your lucky shamrock. Some friendships must shift so that you can regroup within a more comfortable structure.

Forming a new friendship may be more practicable than pursuing a romantic hookup this week.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Decoding the wants and needs of a significant other might seem difficult in the early part of the week to come. You might read too much meaning into something that would seem commonplace in

other circumstances.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): In the week ahead you could brim with creative ideas to improve your surroundings. If you focus fully on your tasks you will find ample opportunities to use ingenuity on the job. Avoid a passing temptation.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): You may be so busy looking for a four leafed clover that you ignore something important going on in the home. You may realize that you have only seen what you wanted to see as this week unfolds.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Today’s Full Moon might rivet your attention on financial matters. In the week ahead you might benefit from meditation or time spent on your own. You might not be aware that someone is being supportive.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): Negative thinking can lead to negative results. Today’s Full Moon is in your opposite sign so you may become more aware of the flaws in a relationship or a partner. Focus on being a friend in the week ahead.

To shell fava beans, press down with your thumbs along the seam of each pod to split it open.

Dreamstime.com

Bean there, done that: Transition to spring with an easy recipe

By Wolfgang Puck For so many of us, winter has been far too long and cold this year. Snow across the Northeast and Midwest. Heavy rains on the Pacific Coast. Tornadoes across the South. It can be hard to believe that springtime is less than two weeks away.

Farmers’ markets are on the verge of the new season, and soon we’ll be savoring all kinds of fresh green vegetables that announce its arrival. But it still feels a little bit early, too early, be cooking the kinds of lighter, more delicate dishes that so many people associate with the season of renewal.

Fortunately, Mother Nature provides us with a perfect transition between winter and spring: fresh fava beans. Very soon, piles of those big, plump, slightly flat grayish-green pods will begin appearing in market stalls, inviting us to enjoy a vegetable that combines a robust, earthy texture and taste that pushes the cold days behind us with a bright color and freshness that hint at the warmer, sunnier days to come.

Many home cooks, however, find fava beans challenging to prepare, put off by those big, tough pods and the false impression that the seeds inside them are tough and chewy. So, let me share the simple truth: They’re surprisingly easy to prepare.

To shell fava beans, press down with your thumbs along the seam of each pod to split it open; then, flick out the beans. I like to blanch the peeled beans briefly in boiling water, followed by a quick cooling in ice water, to help preserve their bright color before adding them to a recipe. It also makes them easier to peel by using a thumbnail to split the opaque skin on each bean, peeling off and discarding it.

Once all that’s done, the fava beans need very little more in the way of cooking. You could toss them in a saute pan with melted butter and chopped herbs or add them to a stew or soup. Or, as I do in the following recipe, combine them with other fresh vegetables and pasta to make a main dish that combines the heartiness of winter fare with the brightness of the new season.

Of course, if you like you can substitute another vegetable for the fava beans in this recipe. Use 1/2 pound (250 g) of small snow peas, for example, or 1-inch (2.5-cm) pieces of asparagus, or coarsely chopped broccoli, blanching them all as you would the fava beans and adding them toward the end of cooking the sauce.

I hope you’ll go on enjoying this recipe long into the spring and continue to adapt it as new crops arrive in the farmers’ market.

PASTA WITH SHIITAKE MUSHROOMS, FAVA BEANS, ONION-ANDGARLIC SOUBISE AND FRESH THYME Serves 4 • 1 2/3 pounds (725 g) fresh fava beans in the

•

• • • •

• • • •

•

• •

pod, to get about 1/2 pound (250 g) shelled and peeled fava beans 1 1/2 cups (375 mL) organic low-sodium vegetable or chicken broth 2 tablespoons extravirgin olive oil 2 tablespoons minced shallot 1 tablespoon minced garlic 1/2 pound (250 g) assorted fresh shiitake mushrooms, or cultivated white or cremini mushrooms, wiped clean with a damp paper towel, trimmed and cut into bite-sized pieces 1/4 cup (60 mL) onionand-garlic soubise (recipe follows) Kosher salt Freshly ground black pepper 1 tablespoon minced fresh thyme leaves, plus 4 sprigs fresh thyme for garnish 12 ounces (375 g) whole-wheat spaghetti or other whole-grain pasta strands 2 heaping tablespoons coarsely chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Fill a mixing bowl with ice cubes and water and set it near the stove.

Meanwhile, shell the fava beans, discarding the pods. When the water boils, add the shelled beans. Boil for 1 minute. With a wire skimmer, remove from the boiling water and transfer immediately to the ice water to cool.

When cooled, peel them, using a thumbnail to split their skins and removing and discarding the skins. Set the peeled beans aside.

In a saucepan, bring the broth to a boil over medium-high heat, and then reduce the heat to very low and keep warm.

In a large nonstick skillet or saute pan, heat the olive oil over high heat. Add the shallot, garlic

18TH ANNUAL

and mushrooms, and saute, stirring continuously, until fragrant, about 2 minutes.

Add the hot broth and stir and scrape with a wooden spoon to deglaze the pan. Stir in the onionand-garlic soubise and continue to cook for 2 minutes longer. Season to taste with salt and pepper.

Stir in the chopped thyme. Continue cooking until the liquid has reduced by half, about 10 minutes.

Add the pasta to the pot of boiling water and cook until al dente — tender but still slightly chewy — following the manufacturer’s suggested cooking time. A few minutes before the pasta is done, add the fava beans to the sauce to heat them through briefly.

Drain the pasta and add it, still slightly dripping, to the sauce, tossing to mix well. Stir in the parsley and remove the pan from the heat.

To serve, divide the pasta among four large heated plates or bowls, spooning the mushrooms, fava beans and sauce equally over the pasta. Garnish with thyme sprigs and serve immediately, passing Parmesan at the table, if desired.

ONION-AND-GARLIC SOUBISE Makes about 3/4 cup (185 mL) • 1/2 tablespoon extravirgin olive oil • 1 medium yellow onion, thinly sliced • 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped • 1 tablespoon dark brown sugar • Kosher salt • Freshly ground black pepper • 2 tablespoons organic low-sodium vegetable broth or chicken broth In a medium nonstick skillet or saucepan, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the onion and the garlic. Sprinkle in the sugar, salt and pepper to taste. Cook, stirring frequently, until the mixture has turned a deep caramel brown, 10 to 15 minutes.

Transfer to a blender or food processor and add the broth. Pulse until pureed. Transfer to a nonreactive container and refrigerate until ready to use.

SPRING CRAFT & VENDOR SHOW

FREE ADMISSIO

Saturday, March 25, 2017 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Founders Community Center 140 Oak St., Frankfort (1 Block South of Nebraska St. on Oak St.) (815) 469-9400 www.frankfortparks.org

N

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

OUT & ABOUT

The Regional News • The Reporter

Thursday, March 16, 2017

Southwest • Section 2, Page 8

LIZ SMITH

Remembering Nora Ephron’s Palm Beach daze

By Liz Smith

“It’s certain that fine writing women eat a crazy salad with their meat,” wrote William Butler Yeats.

ONCE upon a time, I went to Palm Beach, as a typical lowly aspiring reporter. I didn’t know anybody who was rich and/or famous. Yet here I was trying to cover the rich and famous as an outsider.

The only person I knew in Palm Beach was The New York Times’ ace correspondent Charlotte Curtis. We just happened to be there at the same time. She was a first-class name for the Times, eventually vaulting to the top of publishing and the editorial pages. Back then in the ‘60s, Charlotte took a shine to me and also took pity on me. She liked to teach and frequently corrected me. (“Liz, in Palm Beach, people don’t wear blue jeans or Levi’s as ‘informal wear!’”) She introduced me around and also encouraged so-called “Society’s” much-feared and acerbic Jerome Zipkin to adopt me. (Thereby, I was given “access” to certain circles I could never have received on my own. For instance, in the far off future, Zipkin’s backing meant that I’d creep into the Nancy-Ronnie crowd.)

It amused Mr. Zipkin to force other uppity souls to accept me.

He himself was so critical that he once criticized the Colony Hotel, forcing them to tear down and replace closets so that they no longer crushed the shoulders of his suits. When it was done, Jerry sniffed and never patronized the hotel again.

With this tiny basic foundation, I began to write a bylined column for an unassuming publication named The Palm Beach Social Pictorial. This was a local little publication that used lots of pictures and pleased advertisers

and people who were, I guess, climbing. (I should explain that this slim beginning gave me the eventual boost to land a runaway real column in The New York Daily News.) I was lucky enough to reap the whirlwind of its Hearst founder Walter Winchell. This fame as a byline lasted 40 years.)

It may be all ancient history, but just the other day I was weeding books out of my library. I picked a bestseller from the early ‘70s by my pal Nora Ephron titled “Crazy Salad.” The book was only the beginning of Nora’s wicked witty output. It ended with her untimely death in 2012. This, after she’d become a successful screenwriter, movie director and world-class social critic.

In “Crazy Salad,” Nora examined The Palm Beach Social Pictorial. That was the last word from Nora on the playground of the rich, now reverberating down the years at Mar-a-Lago - the current president’s winter White House.

Oh, if only Nora Ephron were alive today to give us her 2017 viewpoint.

However, I do want to print the end of Nora’s chapter on Palm Beach — I wish I could reprint the entire thing, but that would be three columns, and I try to resist being quite that lazy! Here’s Nora: “The rich are different from you and me; we all know that even if some people in Palm Beach don’t.

But it is impossible to read the Social Pictorial without suspecting that the rich in Palm Beach are even more different. One of my friends tells me that Palm Beach used to be a rather nice place and that now it has become a parody of itself; I don’t know if she’s right, but if she is, the Social Pictorial reflects this perfectly. If there were more communities like it, I don’t think I would find The Palm Beach Social Pictorial so amusing. But

there aren’t, so I do.”

Oh, and Nora did me the favor, in her chapter, of writing nicely about my column and how I covered Palm Beach and its goings on. She also included this quote which I am repeating, because I want to remind my readers that this column was never “just about” show biz: Here’s Liz: “So here are the most fascinating and frightening statistics I’ve read recently, from The New Republic — it’s liberal, left, and riddled with integrity, but even so, don’t ignore the statistics.”

I HAD dinner the other evening with a person who has a lot of inside dish on Oscar Night. I wish I could spill, but I was sworn to secrecy. Actually, another scribe will soon be printing up many of these tidbits, and it would be wrong of me to scoop a competitor.

Sigh! Why must we have values at this point? Nobody else does!

Anyway, some of this stuff is hilarious, and as soon as we can, we’ll be repeating it.

Over baby lamb chops and steak au poivre, white wine and margaritas, we wheedled and tried to bargain a bit — just one story! — but we gave up. We’re stuck on the high road. That’s why sometimes when we indulge in a bit of snark, we’ll receive the occasional “how could you?” email. Uh, because we’re human.

READING: Late in noting this article, but please go and find it online. I mean Lauren Collins’ big story on the child refugee crisis in Europe. (Kids fleeing war-torn Mid-East for Europe, trapped in miserable camps, displaced, embittered, depressed, victimized - but still hoping for a better life.) This appeared in the February 27 issue of The New Yorker. I have been haunted ever since by the ghastly

sweep of the piece, and one boy, Wasil, from Afghanistan, whom writer Collins chronicles. This is an important human document. I hope to read, at some point, the rest of Wasil’s story. I hope it’s a happy ending. ...I ALWAYS love Taffy Brodesser-Akner’s celebrity profiles in GQ. They are vivid and perceptive and the writer is so clever at getting her subjects to display delightful aspects of themselves. In her current cover piece on Tom Hiddleston, Taffy shares Mr. Hiddleston’s homemade spaghetti Bolognese. It was actually left over from the night before, and Hiddleston heated it up, before he and the journalist headed out for another day of wandering and chat. It’s a terrific article, Tom sounds like a lovely guy. That he can cook, too, is almost more than we can stand. ...FINALLY, I picked up something at the newsstand titled “100 Women Who Changed Our World.” All the usual suspects were on the cover - Mary, mother of Jesus, Mother Teresa, Billie Holiday, Amelia Earhart, Gloria Steinem, Michelle Obama, Joan Rivers, Ellen DeGeneres, Hillary, Jackie, Diana, Madonna, Director Nora Ephron.

Marilyn, Oprah, Aretha, Nefertiti, (an innocent 14 when she arrived Hatshepsut, Sappho, and on and in France, from Austria) who was on. (One cover cavil — Megyn brought up to be a queen, insulated Kelly, really?) and isolated from reality. (If you The brief capsule bios inside want to talk real indulgence, read were okay — broad sketches of up on Madame Du Barry.) each remarkable woman, easy Antoinette’s husband, Louis listening reading. But the MaXVI, was a nice guy, but weak, rie Antoinette bio annoyed me, particularly the final graph: “The unkingly and unable to consumcrude brutality of her death more mate their marriage for seven than offsets the indulgences of a years. While waiting, she shopped. life lived principally for pleasure After Louis got over it, and Marie began having children, her attiand vanity.”

We are big Marie apologists tudes changed quite a bit. She was here, and feel it our duty to point still a queen, however, and lived out that her “indulgences” were no liked a queen. (She did NOT, howgreater, actually, than any other girl ever, suggest the starving common

people “eat cake,” since bread was in short supply.)

Her life was filled with tragedies, and she was victimized constantly by what we would refer to as “fake news.” In her final years, as France dissolved into rebellion and revolt, she acquitted herself with courage and nobility. She died — after horrible suffering and indignities — with splendid courage.

Don’t mess with us Marie Antoinette fans. Oh, and that goes for Mary, Queen of Scots, too.

E-mail Liz Smith at MES3838@ aol.com.

21): Jessica Chastain plays a lobbyist whose own past could influence her approach to a controversial issue. (R: AS, P) “FANTASTIC BEASTS AND WHERE TO FIND THEM’’ (March 28): The J.K. Rowling story casts Eddie Redmayne as a “magizoolgist’’ who loses several of his fantastic beasts in mid-1920s

New York. (PG-13: V) “A MONSTER CALLS’’ (March 28): A troubled youngster (Lewis MacDougall) with an ill mother finds a very unexpected ally in a tree monster. (PG-13: AS) FAMILY-VIEWING GUIDE KEY: AS, adult situations; N, nudity; P, profanity; V, violence; GV, particularly graphic violence.

Nicolas Khayat/Abaca Press/MCT

VIDEOVIEW BY JAY BOBBIN NOTICE: Ratings for each film begin with a ‘star’ rating — one star meaning ‘poor,’ four meaning ‘excellent’ — followed by the Motion Picture Association of America rating, and then by a family-viewing guide, the key for which appears below.

STARTING THIS WEEK:

“FENCES’’: Denzel Washington and “How to Get Away With Murder’’ star Viola Davis earned easily justifiable raves — and Academy Award nominations — for bringing their earlier stage performances in the August Wilson work to the screen, in a version also directed by Washington. Also Oscar-nominated for best picture, the entry in the playwright’s “Pittsburgh Cycle’’ casts the clearly sterling stars as a 1950s couple beset by numerous problems, some financial, others about personal goals not met, and still others about the strife that can develop between parents and children ... and spouses. The cast also includes Jovan Adepo (also a standout as the couple’s footballprone son), Stephen Henderson, Mykelti Williamson and Russell Hornsby (“Grimm’’). **** (PG13: AS, P) (Also on Blu-ray and On Demand) “PASSENGERS’’: Jennifer Lawrence and Chris Pratt, who reportedly pulled down very hefty paydays for their work here, are sent into deep space in director Morten Tyldum’s (``The Imitation Game’’) imaginative sci-fi drama.

The stars’ characters — respectively, a writer and an engineer — are among the 5,000-plus travelers aboard a starship on a 120-year journey to another planet. When the man accidentally is awakened from hibernation early, his loneliness prompts him to bring the writer out of her sleep ... and they grapple with issues of mortality and intergalactic survival, intensified by the damage done to the vessel by an asteroid. Michael Sheen (“Masters of Sex’’) adds good moments as an android bartender in a cast that also features Laurence Fishburne and Andy Garcia. *** (PG-13: AS, N, P) (Also on Bluray and On Demand) “ELLE’’: A recent Oscar nominee for the film, veteran actress Isabelle Huppert earned a Golden

Globe Award — as did the movie itself, as best foreign langage film — for director Paul Verhoeven’s (``Basic Instinct’’) controversial drama about a company executive whose cavalier attitude toward personal relationships changes after she is assaulted in her home. She becomes driven to avenge the attack, but being on a course that’s so uncharted for her could foretell even more peril for her. Huppert also won honors for the picture from a number of critics’ groups across the U.S., including the National Society of Film Critics and the New York Film Critics Circle.

DVD extras: ``making-of’’ documentary; American Film Institute tribute to Huppert. *** (R: AS, N, P, V) (Also on Blu-ray and On Demand) “COLLATERAL BEAUTY’’: Will Smith has alternated very commercial movies with much more personal tales throughout his career, and this underrated, all-roads-connect-themed drama qualifies as one of the latter. He plays an ad man whose daughter’s death drives him to the brink, and as his actions threaten the future of his company, several colleagues (Kate Winslet, Edward Norton, Michael Pena) seek evidence about his mental health that they hope will put them in control of the firm’s future. Their own backgrounds are revealed as they work with three actors (Helen Mirren, Keira Knightley, Jacob Latimore) enlisted in the quest. Recent “Moonlight’’ Oscar nominee Naomie Harris and Mary Beth Peil (“Dawson’s Creek’’) also appear in the tale written by Allan Loeb (“Wall Street: Money Never Sleeps’’) and directed by David Frankel (“The Devil Wears Prada’’). *** (PG-13: AS, P) (Also on Blu-ray and On Demand) “SOLACE’’: He’s not Hannibal Lecter in this case, but Anthony Hopkins does play a part bearing the title “Doctor’’ in this melodrama. The character here is a psychically skilled FBI consultant (Anthony Hopkins) enlisted by an agent (Jeffrey Dean Morgan) with whom he has a past, since finding a serial killer (Colin Farrell) evidently will take more than standard procedure. Abbie Cornish (“Limitless’’), Xander Berkeley (“The Walking Dead’’), Marley Shelton and Janine Turner (“Northern Ex-

posure’’) also star. DVD extras: ``making-of’’ documentary; audio commentary by director Afonso Poyart. *** (R: AS, N, P, V) (Also on Blu-ray and On Demand)

COMING SOON:

“LION’’ (March 21): Years after being adopted by an Australian couple, a man seeks his

biological family; Oscar nominees Dev Patel and Nicole Kidman star.

(PG-13: AS) “MASTER OF NONE: THE COMPLETE FIRST SEASON’’ (March 21): The Netflix comedy series casts co-creator Aziz Ansari in the saga of a New York-based actor. (Not rated: AS, P) “MISS SLOANE’’ (March

! y a d n u S s i h T Right Around The Corner!

Mar 19

Mar 20

PEN MICAYS MOND

Mar 22

Mar 25

Saturday, April 1, 2017 7pm – 11pm

Beverly

Wedding Expo

Sponsor Reception 6pm – 7pm

Please RSVP by March 22, 2017

beverlyartcenter.org | 773-445-3838

Savory Eats

Opee Bar

General Admission $75

Musii ann Dancing Gala Sponsor $500

Fabulous Auctioo

(Includes 2 tickets, access to sponsor reception, and recognition in gala materials)

Admission $10

($15 couples)

Don’t miss the fun!Register today!

music lessons! improv! ainting! p and more!

Spring Classes & Summer Camps are on sale now!

Become a member and save 10%! visual arts | theater | music | film | dance