SOUTH SIDE IRISH PARADE SPECIAL SECTION, Inside
Local outdoors columnist makes his debut in SPORTS
$1 Newsstand
THE REGIONAL NEWS Named best small weekly in Illinois five times by the Illinois Press Association
Thursday, March 9, 2017
Serving Palos, Orland and Worth townships and neighboring communities
76th Year, NO. 10 • 3 Sections
New tastes will spice up local dining choices Polish, Greek restaurants coming to Palos Heights By Anthony Caciopo Regional News Editor
Changes coming to the Palos Heights dining scene prompted on-the-record discussion and, later, follow-up conversation at Tuesday’s city council meeting.
Two liquor license requests scheduled for public hearing March 15 announced by Mayor Bob Straz include one for a new establishment called the Highland House, which will be located at 12233-37 S. Harlem Ave. “It’s a Polish cuisine restaurant
going into (the location of) the original Mama Vesuvio’s,” said the mayor. “We’ll gain some activity as far as new businesses coming into town, and that’s great.” Alderman Jeffrey Key of Ward 1 discussed construction activity at the former Sam Buca’s restaurant,
12231 S. Harlem Ave. A story below spotlights the new restaurant and bar as it prepares for a grand opening later this month. Key also discussed changes at Bon a Pit Grill & Smokehouse, a barbecue specialty restaurant and long-time fixture on the Palos Heights downtown strip at 12200 S. Harlem. “You may have noticed Bon
a Pit is closed right now,” Key shared with fellow council members and the public in attendance. “They’ve closed to redecorate and they are re-launching under a new name.” “It’s the same owners but it’s not going to be a barbecue place anymore,” he said. “It’s going to be called Kefi, a Greek restaurant and bar. Kefi means ‘fun’
in Greek.” “I think that’s something to emphasize,” said Mayor Straz, “the fact that Kefi is going to be an authentic Greek restaurant. We’ve got Italian restaurants, a Mediterranean restaurant next to the bakery. With a new Polish restaurant going in, we’re going See DINING, Page 2
ORLAND PARK
Officials to redesign village sticker with standard U.S. flag By Dermot Connolly
Chris Costa, Jr. works on a new sheltered bar area on the deck of the building.
The decision last week by Orland Park village officials to redesign the village sticker unveiled just two weeks ago was downplayed at the Village Board meeting on Monday. In fact, it wasn’t mentioned at all. Mayor Dan McLaughlin unveiled the new 2017-2019 village vehicle sticker design at the Feb. 20 meeting. The original design of the sticker showed a black and white American flag with one blue stripe, with “Orland Park Supports Police” above it. The flag with the blue stripe is a symbol commonly used by the Blue Lives Matter movement supporting law enforcement, so the decision to change the design to the standard red, white and blue American flag received some media attention. But Assistant Village Manager Joe La Margo said Monday that the change was not made in response to anyone for or against the Blue Lives Matter or Black Lives Matter movements, as some media reports suggested. “We received some calls from veterans saying that they agreed with the sentiment of the sticker, but they objected to the design because they said the American flag should never be altered,” said La Margo. He pointed out that the U.S. Flag Code does prohibit the altering of a U.S. flag in any way. “For that reason alone, we decided to change the design to the American flag. Nothing else
Photo by Anthony Caciopo
THINGS ARE LOOKING UP
New owner transforms former Sam Buca’s restaurant into Rooftop Tap By Anthony Caciopo Regional News Editor
The owner of the brand-new Rooftop Tap and his family are elevating the establishment’s game, quite literally. Currently under construction on the site of the former Sam Buca’s Italian Restaurant at 12231 S. Harlem, Palos Heights, the space is undergoing a substantial transformation including a new addition to the popular deck on the roof. “The (entire) place was a near gut-job and it’s coming out great,” said Orland Park resident Chris Costa as he built new framework on the roof. “We brought it into the 21st Century.” Costa is the son of Frank Costa who purchased the business in 2015 and began making plans for a brand-new establishment
while the old Sam Buca’s continued to operate. Chris Costa paused his outdoor work on the deck in chilly, drizzly weather last Monday to offer details of what’s been going on inside and outside Rooftop Tap. A gleaming granite bar, new seating, new tables and new suspended TVs still wrapped in their protective coverings are among the new features on the ground level. In addition, considerable work has been done to the infrastructure. “We’ve installed a lot of new plumbing and we’ve replaced the HVAC,” he explained. “We’ve re-piped electrical runs and pulled new wires. “We uninstalled, steam-cleaned and degreased all the kitchen equipment and then put it all back into place.” See ROOFTOP TAP, Page 2
The now-abandoned design of the 2017-19 Orland Park vehicle sticker
is changing on it.” The new design was not available for viewing this week, but La Margo said the sticker will still read “Orland Park Supports Police” on top.
See Editorial, Page 4 McLaughlin said at the original unveiling that many residents had asked the village to do something officially to support law enforcement. He said rather than putting out blue lights or ribbons, the decision was made to incorporate the message into the sticker. Interim Village Manager/Police Chief Tim McCarthy, a former Secret Service agent who was shot in the attempted assassination of President Ronald Reagan, said the support for police shown by local residents “means a lot to us.” La Margo said some of the media attention on the issue was out of proportion. He noted that, as usual, residents are not obligated to display the written message on See STICKER, Page 2
Centenarian credits God and good genes for his long and enjoyable life By Dermot Connolly Edwin Van Syckle of Palos Hills, who recently celebrated his 100th birthday with family, credits God for his longevity and good fortune. “Without God, I couldn’t do anything,” said the centenarian, who never misses Sunday services at Trinity Lutheran Church in Burr Ridge. “I have to be thankful to God. He brought me to where I am. He kept me around longer than I belong,” he said, tossing out one of many wry remarks during a recent interview in his home, surrounded by party balloons.
Van Syckle turned 100 on Feb. 24, and celebrated with his family and friends on the following Sunday. A native of Lakewood, Ohio, a suburb of Cleveland, the retired steel salesman still lives in the Cour Madeline home he bought with his late wife, Winifred, in 1965. They lived in Palos Park before moving to Palos Hills. He recalls watching Moraine Valley Community College, which opened in 1967, getting its start with a Quonset hut. Winifred died 10 years ago. “I miss her very much,” he said. His son, Raymond, lives in Palos Heights, and his daughter, Norma
In Stock and Ready to be delivered. New 2017 Alfa Romeo Giulia Lease for $379† per month
Jean, lives in Columbus, Ohio. She and other family members, including twin great-granddaughters, came in for the party. His other son, Jeff, who lived in Atlanta, died of leukemia at age 70. He is able to live independently with help from home healthcare aides who spend a few hours with him each day, making meals and taking care of whatever needs he has. “He is a joy and a great person to be around. We have some great conversations and I’ve learned a lot from him,” said Peggy Armstrong, an aide from Right at Home, an agency based in Or-
land Park that provides in-home care. She comes in the evenings to make his dinner and help him around the house, while someone else comes in the mornings. His main goal on Sunday mornings is getting dressed and ready when a volunteer from his church picks him up for services. “I’ve seen a lot of changes in my lifetime. Much of it good, some bad,” said Van Syckle. “I remember women driving electric cars, before gas-powered cars. They would just pull a lever and off it would go,” he said. Still an avid follower of current affairs, Van Syckle said he likes
to watch cable news programs, and he made sure he got out to vote in November. “I didn’t get an absentee ballot. My aide took me to the polling place,” he said. He remembers as far back as the presidency of William G. Harding, another Ohio native, who was president from 1921 until his death in 1923. When asked what he thought about Franklin D. Roosevelt, he was quick to respond. “I never voted for him. I was a Republican. I never voted for a Democrat,” said Van Syckle.
Photo by Dermot Connolly
Edwin Van Syckle of Palos Hills reSee CENTENARIAN, Page 2 cently celebrated his 100th birthday
Alec Bettenhausen
Fiat Alfa Romeo General Sales Manager
17514 S. Oak Park Ave., Tinley Park
Let Alec Bettenhausen and his staff Change Your Mind about Car Buying
888-744-4697
SALES HOURS: Mon-Thurs 8am-8pm, Fri-Sat 8am-6pm | SERVICE HOURS: Mon-Fri 7:30am-6pm, Sat 7:30am-4pm †Lease a new 2017 Alfa Romeo Giulia RWD for $379 per month for 36 months, plus tax, title, license and doc fees. $4299 due at signing. 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.
BettenhausenAlfaRomeo.com
Visit us on the web at www.theregionalnews.com • email: TheRegional@comcast.net • To advertise, call 708-448-4000
2 Thursday, March 9, 2017
The Regional News
Comply first, complain later is message of new guidelines for Illinois drivers Motorists in Illinois who are stopped by law enforcement personnel are being urged to follow new guidelines designed to avoid potentially dangerous confrontations. The guidelines encourage drivers to keep both hands clearly in sight on the steering wheel “until the officer instructs them otherwise.” After the interaction with law enforcement is over, drivers who feel an officer has treated them improperly can complain through formal channels. Dubbed the “Comply then Complain” approach, the effort is aimed at preventing interactions with law enforcement from escalating. Experts suggest citizens can diffuse confrontations with police by complying first, then complaining later if they feel their rights have been violated The new Illinois guide focuses on driver responsibilities, while addressing officer behavior in several sentences at the end. The Palos Park Police Department is participating in a national campaign to spotlight these new guidelines. “We are seeing some fundamental changes in this country
as police search for new ways to gain public trust and look at police procedures and interaction with the public,” Palos Park Police Chief Joe Miller said as part of a news release explaining the new approach. “In a time of unprecedented scrutiny and question of all facets of police tactics and procedures, we want the prevailing message to be that anyone who feels they’ve been treated improperly by an officer should initially comply with the officer’s instruction,” said Miller. “They should not hesitate to subsequently complain about that treatment.” Miller said his department conducts regular peer reviews and best-practice overviews. “We believe the ‘comply then complain’ approach serves as a de-escalation mechanism and allows for a clear (post-incident) review of what is, and what is not, within the scope of industry service levels and practices.” The chief said he recognizes a key to any interaction between an officer and a citizen is the officer’s tone, which can encourage compliance. “We recommend the officer
start by asking for cooperation first,” he said. An initial step toward addressing any concerns when someone is stopped by a police officer is that the driver can ask that a supervisor be called to the scene. Beyond that, Palos Park has a specific procedure for the filing of a citizen complaint against an officer. Those complaints are investigated. Training, re-training, corrective disciplinary processes and dismissal are utilized when deemed appropriate. Motorists are encouraged to follow these practices in order to reduce the chance of a stop turning into something worse. • Remain calm and comply with an officer’s wishes. If the motorist has any issues with how the officer handled the situation, pursue it later through the proper complaint channels with police. • Do not be surprised if another patrol car appears. This is to ensure the officer’s safety. • Always carry proper identification.
POLICE BLOTTER: ORLAND PARK Five charged with DUI Orland Park police charged Carol Stream resident Aaron A. Hodges, 32, with DUI and improper lane usage after they curbed his car near Wheeler Drive and Peach Tree Drive at 8:25 p.m. Feb. 17. The vehicle was towed and impounded, and Hodges is scheduled to appear in court in Bridgeview on March 20. Mateusz M. Michalski, 37, of Orland Park, was charged with DUI after police encountered him outside Anthony’s Pizza, 11271 W. 159th St., at 11:40 p.m. Feb. 18. Police were called to the scene by a motorist who said he saw Michalski drive his SUV erratically, park in the pizzeria’s lot and walk inside. Police at the scene said that when Michalski exited the restaurant’s restroom, he saw them and walked out a back door. They caught up with him in the parking lot. His vehicle was towed and impounded, and Michalski is expected to appear in court in Bridgeview on March 20. Homer Glen resident Patrick J. Marsala, 42, was charged with
DUI and improper lane usage after police stopped his car near 167th Street and 108th Avenue at 1:17 a.m. Feb. 12. The vehicle was towed and impounded, and Marsala is set to appear in court in Bridgeview on March 20. Zion resident Gabriela Ayala, 29, was charged with DUI, speeding, improper lane usage and improper passing of an emergency vehicle after police curbed her car in the 17900 block of South LaGrange Road at 2:05 a.m. Feb. 12. Her vehicle was spotted traveling at 60 mph, 20 mph over the posted limit, according to the police report. The car was towed and impounded, and Ayala was given a court date of March 20 in Bridgeview. Oak Forest resident Eileen J. Hermann, 31, was charged with DUI, improper lane usage and failure to carry a valid driver’s license while driving after police stopped her minivan in the 14700 block of South LaGrange Road at 5:25 p.m. Feb. 12. The vehicle was towed and impounded, and Hermann is scheduled to appear in court in Bridgeview on March 28.
Dolton woman stole clothing, police say Police charged Dolton resident Kennedi C. Ezell-Williams, 20, with retail theft after they reportedly found more than $850 worth of clothing in a car in which she was a passenger, at 5:52 p.m. Feb. 7. Police said they stopped the vehicle in the 14500 block of South LaGrange Road for a traffic violation and saw unbagged merchandise with store tags and security sensors still attached. Ezell-Williams reportedly said she had just purchased the garments from a stranger at Orland Square Mall. The merchandise was returned to three different stores in the mall. Each told police the items had been stolen. Ezell-Williams is due in court in Bridgeview on Tuesday. The driver of the vehicle, 32-year-old Marquita N. Diggines of Chicago, was cited for driving on a revoked license, improper lane usage and unsafe backing on a roadway. Her car was towed and seized. She also is due in court in Bridgeview on Tuesday.
Sticker
Continued from Page 1 the sticker if they feel uncomfortable with it. “As usual, residents can trim that part off. As long as the date and the number of the sticker remains, they will not have a problem.” He said issues with stickers have come up before, including with the current sticker that commemorates the 40th anniversary of the end of the Vietnam War. “Some people objected to that, and they could cut off the message on that, too. Vehicle sticker applications for 2017-19 will be mailed at the end of May to village residents who have previously purchased stickers. The cost is $30 for standard vehicles and $10 for vehicles
Rigoberto Uribe, 49, of Blue Island, was charged with DUI following a traffic crash at Ridgeland Avenue and College Drive at 2:45 a.m. Feb. 28. Police said he was also cited for driving without a license and disobeying a traffic control device. He is due in court on March 30.
License charges Heba Z. Gazawneh, 27, of Palos Hills, was charged with driving without a valid license at 8:40 a.m. Feb. 27, in the 7600 block of West McCarthy Road. Police said she was also cited for driving without proof of insurance. She is due in court on March 22. Valerie Bennecke-Slack, 49, of Hickory Hills, was charged with driving with a suspended license following a traffic stop at 1:28 a.m. Feb. 28, in the 11500 block of South Harlem Avenue. Police said she was also cited for having only one headlight. She is due in court on March 22. Issa A. Sweis, 38, of Orland Park, was charged with driving with a suspended license following a traffic stop at 7:30 p.m. Friday, in the 6400 block of West 127th owned by seniors. All vehicles registered to Village of Orland Park addresses must display current village stickers with the 2017-19 stickers affixed to the lower-right portion of the windshield on the passenger side by June 30. During the meeting on Monday, McLaughlin noted that the threeyear period that the village had embarked on to honor Vietnam veterans and all veterans with various programs is coming to an end this year. But officials said the plan going forward is to put ongoing initiatives in place to let veterans and active service members know they are not forgotten. McLaughlin said the first program being started by the Veterans Commission is “Operation
Local law enforcement personnel raising funds for Special Olympics took part in a “polar plunge” last Saturday at the Lake Manteno Sportsman’s Club in Manteno, Illinois. More than 200 police personnel from multiple jurisdictions dashed into the frigid waters of the lake to earn pledge money from supporters. Dubbed the “Palos Plungers,” the Palos Heights team posed for a photo with fellow officers from Palos Park and Orland Park. Participating were: Officers Tony Delaney, Kevin Apostal and Nick Belseth, all of the Palos Heights Police; Commander John Sawyer, Palos Park; Officer Steve Kelly, Orland Park; Officer Michael Mathis, Palos Heights and Cadet Commander Bridget Tolan, Palos Heights.
Dining
Continued from Page 1 to have cuisine from all over. It’s a good mix,” he said. Other topics discussed during the meeting included an update on the former Mary Del’s Corsetieres building, 12221 S. Harlem Ave. “We closed last week on the Mary Del’s building,” said Straz. “It will be torn down for additional parking for the Harlem Avenue area. Parking has always been a problem and this will remedy it.” Straz didn’t offer an exact date for the building’s demolition but he did tell The Regional News he’s scheduled to meet with a landscape architect today.
Facilities at the Palos Heights Recreation Center, 6601 W. 127th St. are proving more popular than anticipated in an original timeline. “The Rec Center is alive with so many people,” said Ald. Key. “They have 1,000 members in the fitness center now, which I believe is ahead of our projection.” The entire council meeting ran approximately 17 minutes and following adjournment the mayor circled back to explain the liquor license process with one Class A license requested by the Highland House and a Class H license requested by new owners of the Mobil gas station on the southwest corner of Ridgeland and College Drive.
“I have a hearing with the individuals on March 15 (5:15 and 5:30 p.m.) and I’ll bring it back to the council the next meeting after that,” said Straz. “The reason we do that is because we don’t have a finite number of liquor licenses. Every time there’s a new restaurant, we create a new license. If you have a license and you leave, the license goes away,” he explained. As city officials wrapped up to leave the city council chamber, Alderman Don Bylut of Ward 1 offered a final thought on the growing restaurant scene in Palos Heights. “It’s pretty exciting,” he said. “We’re getting close to being a destination city for dining.”
Photo by Anthony Caciopo
POLICE BLOTTER: PALOS HEIGHTS Jacob B. Mathauser, 20, of Blue Island, was charged with driving under the influence of alcohol following a vehicle crash at 10:13 p.m. Feb. 27, in the 12000 block of South 74th Avenue. Police said his vehicle struck a tree. He was also cited for failure to reduce speed to avoid a crash. He is due in court on March 30. Alexander M. Cadiz, 48, of Chicago, was charged with DUI at 1:26 a.m. Saturday, in the 12100 block of South Ridgeland Avenue. Police said he was also cited for speeding and disobeying a traffic control device. He is due in court on March 30. Jennifer L. Aulwurm, 40, of Sylvania, Ohio, was charged with DUI at 3:08 a.m. Sunday, in the 6400 block of West 127th Street. Police said she was also cited for speeding and improper lane usage. She is due in court on March 30. Victoria Karnakova, 36, of Oak Lawn, was charged with DUI following a traffic stop at 1:31 a.m. Monday, in the 11900 block of South Harlem Avenue. Police said she was also cited for improper lane usage. She is due in court on March 30.
Local police participate in ‘polar plunge’
Supplied photo
Rooftop Tap is a new establishment due to open later this month in the space formerly occupied by the wellknown Sam Buca’s Italian Restaurant, 12231 S. Harlem Ave.
Street. Police said he was also cited for having one headlight. He is due in court on March 30. Andre Marshall, 42, of Maywood, was charged with driving with a suspended license following a traffic stop at 11:35 a.m. Friday, in the 12800 block of South Harlem Avenue. He was also cited for driving without insurance. He is due in court on March 22. Chasity Williams, 23, of Chicago, was charged with driving on a suspended license following a traffic stop at 7:05 a.m. Sunday, in the 7500 block of College Drive. Police said she was also cited for speeding and obstruction, because she allegedly provided a false name. She is due in court on March 31.
Speeding Debra Riley, 56, of Oak Lawn, was charged with speeding following a traffic stop at 1:09 p.m. Friday, in the 7800 block of College Drive. Police said she was also cited for attempting to elude because she allegedly fled when emergency lights were turned on. She is due in court on March 31. Outreach,” in which family and friends of local service members are encouraged to notify the village when their loved ones return or come home on leave. They will then be sent letters of appreciation and gift certificates and other items, including free membership in the Sportsplex. There is also an effort underway to gather more background information about the more than 970 people listed on the village’s veterans memorial. The information will then be added to the village website. “What we are doing is about outreach, a steady message letting them know that we want to serve vets the way they want to be served,” said Trustee James Dodge, the veterans’ liaison on the board.
Rooftop Tap Continued from Page 1
A small stage on the ground level will continue the Sam Buca’s tradition of live music. On the deck upstairs overlooking Harlem Avenue, Costa and his son, Chris Costa, Jr. (the grandson of the owner) are constructing a new 600-square foot covered bar area. Previously the deck had no
Centenarian
Continued from Page 1 “One of my favorite memories was watching the Cleveland Indians win the World Series in 1948. I was at a lot of those games. I also saw the Pittsburgh Pirates beat the New York Yankees,” he said. “I was sorry to see the Indians lose to the Chicago Cubs last year, but it was good for the Cubs fans,” Van Syckle said magnanimously. Mr. Van Syckle said that as a steel salesman, a job he retired from in 1991, he sold spools of wire to companies such as Mead to make spiral notebooks. “All those manufacturing jobs went to China. But they might be coming back,” he said. His father also worked in the steel industry, and is credited with inventing a tool that allowed pieces of steel to be scraped up from the holds of ships. “Before inventing that, he had to shovel it himself,” he said. Mr. Van Syckle has a desktop computer, which he said he used to check the stock market, another field he was involved in during his long career. That is just one indication that he has not let technology pass him by since retiring. Another is the smart phone in his shirt pocket. “I don’t hear well on the phone any more. But I can send texts to my daughter and keep in touch with her that way,” he said. Aside from good genes and God, Mr. Van Syckle offered no secret formula for reaching the 100 mark. “I come from a family of
shelter from the elements other than patio umbrellas at each table. “It’ll be a full bar with high-top tables and a couple of hanging TVs,” said Costa about the new sheltered area. On the open portion of the deck, Costa said he’ll be installing “anti-gravity” lounge chairs, which provide more comfort than the previous deck chairs. The Costas began work on the interior Jan. 2, 2017 only days after final call at Sam Buca’s.
The popularity and high-visibility Sam Buca’s enjoyed for many years has prompted a lot of curiosity about the fate of the place after it closed, said Chris Costa. People have stopped by to inquire while construction was underway. At least one passerby was highly impressed, he said. “She flipped out when she saw the inside,” Costa said with a smile. The targeted opening date for Rooftop Tap is March 17.
long-livers,” he said, noting that his mother lived to 85 and his father to 93. His brother and sister also lived into their 90s. The only health complaint he seems to have, aside from walking slowly, is colorblindness. That prevented him from serving in World War II. “I wanted to go into the Air Force, but I wasn’t accepted because I couldn’t pass the colorblind test. Then they came looking for me to join after the war was over, but it was too late,” he said. He said his favorite food when he went to restaurants on business trips was “prime rib and shrimp cocktail. I really used to enjoy that.” He has simple tastes these days, things like grilled cheese sandwiches and soup prepared by his aides, complete with ice cream for dessert. Sometimes his aides bring him Nachos Bel Grande from Taco Bell, one of his current favorite foods. Van Syckle is not a drinker either. “I limit myself to have one drink a year now, a vodka marti-
ni, usually around Christmastime. Any more than that, and I would be afraid I couldn’t get from here to there,” he joked, motioning to the couch 10 feet from his chair. Allison Aidinovich, owner of the Right at Home agency in Orland Park, which provides the weekend aides, stopped in to wish Mr. Van Syckle a happy birthday. Her company was the recipient of 2017 Provider of Choice, Employer of Choice, and Best in Home Care awards from Home Care Pulse, a national ratings agency that grades companies using opinions from clients and employees. She said that because most of Mr. Van Syckle’s family is out-ofstate, they make use of the “Family Room’ online service her company provides. “It is very helpful. Everything we do for the client is recorded, including when we weigh them and take their blood pressure. That way, they can make sure their family member is being cared for and stay in touch with us.”
New Years SALE EVENT
GOING ON NOW
Great Carpet! Great Prices! Advantage Carpet “Your Advantage to Quality at Warehouse Prices”
7329 West 79th Street (Bridgeview) 708-496-8822 Showroom Hours: Mon., Tues. & Thurs. 9:00am to 8:00pm Wed., Fri & Sat. 9:00am to 5:00pm • Sun. 11am to 4:00pm
www.AdvantageCarpetPlus.com
2015 2012 2011
The Regional News
Thursday, March 9, 2017
Registration underway for Southwest Half-Marathon By Dermot Connolly A free Kids’ Dash fun run sponsored by Palos Hospital has been added to the 10th Annual Southwest Half-Marathon and 10K being held on Sunday, May 7, on Route 83 in Palos Heights. Registration for all three events is available at www. southwesthalfmarathon.com. For the half-marathon, registration is $65, and $50 for the 10K. The Kids’ Dash event, which will start at 10:30 a.m. when the other races are completed, will include a 50-yard-dash for children up to 4 years old, 100yard dash for 5- and 6-year-olds, 200-yard-dash for 7- and 8-yearolds, and a quarter-mile run for 9 and 10-year-olds. The main two events are open to those ages 11 and up. Just like last year, Palos Health, the parent of Palos Hospital, is sponsoring the half-marathon, while CNB Bank & Trust is sponsoring the 10K walk/run. “Being that it is our 10th anniversary, we wanted to offer something that would attract more families. This should be exciting. It will make it more of a family experience, a community experi-
ence,” said Jeff Prestinario, who co-founded the event with race director Mel Diab. All the participants in the Kids’ Dash will receive medals and ribbons. “Everyone is a winner,” said Diab, who said Friday during a planning meeting that he would like to see 100 children participate in the fun run. The route of the main races remains the same from previous years. Both start and finish at 7600 W. Route 83, beside Palos Heights City Hall. The half-marathon follows Route 83 nearly as far as Archer Avenue, where runners turn around in the parking lot of Camp Sagawau and return to the finish line. Participants in the 10K follow the same route as far as the McClaughry Springs Woods in Palos Park, where they will turn around and head back. The starting time for the main races is 7:30 a.m., and Route 83 will be closed to traffic between 5 a.m. and 1 p.m., so parking close to the race start might be difficult for people coming later to the 10:30 a.m. Kids’ Dash. Parking will be available at both the Palos Heights and Palos Park Metra commuter lots, said Ed Dombrowski, who
oversees parking on the day of the event. The children’s races are expected to be completed in 20 to 30 minutes, and are not expected to delay the reopening of Route 83. “Things are going along pretty well,” said Prestinario, regarding race preparations. He and the other organizers are happy with the number of sign-ups for the main races so far, but they would always like to see more. As of last Friday, they said approximately 900 people had registered online for the two official races, with about two-thirds signing up for the half-marathon and a third for the 10K. Organizers are planning to notify local schools about the free Kids’ Dash. Prestinario said he has a threeyear-old grandchild who is already looking forward to running for a medal. “It’s free. I assume a lot of kids would feel the same way if they find out about it,” he said. Lori Mazeika, representing Palos Hospital, said that in addition to sponsoring the half-marathon and the Kids’ Dash, the hospital will continue its tradition of providing physical therapists to lead warm-up exercises prior to the main races.
3
Photo by Anthony Caciopo
The ruins of a house in the 8100 block of West 130th Street, Palos Park, after an overnight fire of an undetermined cause swept the vacant building on March 3.
Vacant house in Palos Park a total loss after fire
Fire broke out in the early-morning hours last Friday on the 8100 block of West 130th Street. At approximately 3:30 a.m. March 3 the Palos Park Fire Protection District received a call for a fully involved house fire, according to Chief Jim Graben. “It had quite a head start before any
of the neighbors knew,” he said. The two-story house was reported to be vacant and firefighters engaged in what Graben described as “A defensive fire attack, meaning no one would go inside.” The blaze was battled with deluge guns and large hand lines, he said. In approximately 50 minutes, the fire was under control.
Graben called the structure a total loss, estimating the house’s size to be approximately 1,800-square feet. Neighbors reportedly told firefighters the house may have been foreclosed and that it had been vacant for at least one year. The cause of the fire is under investigation, said Graben.
Hurley backs legislation to assist returning veterans State Rep. Fran Hurley (D-35th) backed legislation that she said will give veterans better access to health services, treatment for post-traumatic disorder and job training. She said the legislation will help returning service members transition into civilian life and prevent suicides. “Our veterans and their families have made enormous sacrifices to protect the future of this country,” said Hurley. “It is not enough to simply thank veterans for their service, we need to help them Photos by Anthony Caciopo transition into their new civilian lives and ensure they have all the resources they need to succeed once they have returned home.” According to a recent study by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, 22 veterans commit suicide every day in this country. Hurley is working to address this Retired Lt. Milton Williams, 94, (above) of the famous Tuskegee Airmen speaks to a crowded room at Providence crisis by sponsoring a package Healthcare & Rehabilitation Center in Palos Heights, where he is a client. Williams told of his experiences as a of reforms streamlining access to member of the first African-American group of pilots to serve in the U.S. Armed Forces. existing services for veterans and Local home-schooled children (below) greet Lt. Williams as he enters the room. The Tuskegee Airmen often met providing new accommodations
Tuskegee Airman talks history with students and rehab clients
with hostility or indifference following their service in World War II due to segregation in the U.S. military as well as in much of the nation. The kids decided to honor his service with their thanks.
Ryan Kroese (bottom) of Palos Heights raises his hand to ask Lt. Williams how many missions he flew. Williams’ reply was “36.”
for returning service members as they seek civilian jobs and educational opportunities, all in an effort to reduce the number of veteran suicides. The reforms are recommendations of the Illinois Task Force on Veterans’ Suicide, which Hurley voted to create in 2014. The panel of legislators, veterans and their advocates met throughout the state to gather information and craft legislation that will allow the state to more effectively meet the needs of the veteran community. Hurley is sponsoring House Bill 2647, which would require the Illinois Department of Veteran Affairs (IDVA) to create several programs to better serve veterans with PTSD and other service-related mental illnesses. Hurley’s bill directs IDVA to work with the federal Department of Defense to proactively identify Illinois veterans whose service exposed them situations found to increase the likelihood of suicidal tendencies. Veterans returning from
heavy-casualty or high-conflict areas, or who served alongside another veteran who committed suicide will be proactively offered additional assistance. The IDVA would also create a public awareness campaign to promote a better understanding of suicide and mental health, according to Hurley. Hurley said her legislation would work to improve the mental health training provided to veterans’ assistance commissions and other veterans’ groups. Licensed therapy dogs would also be used in greater numbers to provide comfort to veterans suffering from PTSD and the families of returning veterans would have access to better information on what they can do to assist their loved in their transition to civilian life. The bill would also cut red tape and expedite filing of discharge paperwork, so veterans can begin receiving mental health treatment, job training and other services sooner.
Rush rips Republicans who want to eliminate ACA
Cong. Bobby L. Rush (D-1st) on Monday lambasted Republicans who seek to demolish the Affordable Care Act that he said will render millions of Americans without access to affordable health care. The legislator accused his colleagues of playing childish games with the lives of the elderly, the disabled, children and working families. “We’ve heard rumors of drastic changes to the ACA and they will scare the hell out of anybody who desperately needs health insurance coverage,” Rush said. “The Republicans are playing peak-a-boo with seniors, the disabled, women and children — and are acting like vampires waiting for the sun to go down so they can make their move on those they perceive weaker than them. We’re here to protect the public’s interests and not wind up as cheerleaders for private profits.” A recent analysis issued by the Congressional Budget Office (CBO) and the Joint Committee on Taxation (JCT) estimated that 18 million Americans would lose their health insurance in just the first year following repeal, even if the law’ s market reforms are kept in place. The CBO and JCT predict that 32 million fewer people would have health insurance by 2026. The Urban Institute has reached similar conclusions: if the ACA is even partially repealed, the number of uninsured Americans
would increase by approximately 30 million in 2019, a 103 percent increase. In a letter to Cong. Greg Walden (R-Ore.), chairman of the Committee on Energy and Commerce, Rush joined Democrats on the Committee in saying that he was “deeply concerned by [the chairman’s] decision to move forward with the markup in the absence of a CBO score of the bill. The decisions we make on health care will have real and drastic consequences on our con-
stituents, their communities, and state and local economies. “My constituents have asked Congress to focus on raising wages, creating good-paying jobs and ensuring everyone has access to capital and equal opportunity,” Rush said. “Instead, Republicans have declared all-out war on the public’s health by putting insurance companies back in charge, raising premiums, ripping guaranteed benefits away and eliminating other essential protections.”
Clarification Due to a reporting error, an article in the March 2 edition of The Regional News about the Ward 1 race in Palos Heights incorrectly implied that Alderman Don Bylut voted to approve a massage parlor receiving the business license needed to open in the city. As is customary, the business license did not come before the City Council for a vote because no variances were needed. The Regional News regrets the error.
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
4 Thursday, March 9, 2017
EDITORIAL
OPINION
The Regional News
Orland vehicle tag should not have been sticker shock Right idea, wrong design. Disagreement surfaced in Orland Park this past week because of a proposed vehicle sticker design for 2017-2019 featuring an image of the American flag with non-traditional colors and the words “Orland Park Supports Police” along the top. It’s a takeoff of the Blue Lives Matter symbol in which the flag is rendered in black and white with one stripe in blue, the color universally associated with law enforcement. It is intended to be a big thumbs-up for the men and women who strive every day to keep us safe. Orland Park Supports Police. Blue Lives Matter. Different words, same flag design. Orland Park Mayor Dan McLaughlin introduced the sticker design at a village board meeting last month, which we reported with a photo and story in The Regional News. You can see the design again on Page One of today’s edition. Pretty sharp looking and a great sentiment, right? Well, maybe not on all counts. Orland Park village officials have now scrapped the design. Orland Park Assistant Village Manager Joe La Margo said at this past Monday’s village board meeting “We received some calls from veterans saying that they agreed with the sentiment of the sticker, but they objected to the design because they said the American flag should never be altered. For that reason alone, we decided to change the design to the (traditional) American flag. Nothing else is changing on it,” he said, which includes the wording. What may have turned a humble thing like a vehicle sticker into a hot potato is the use of the same graphic associated with Blue Lives Matter, and the requirement that vehicle owners must display it. That’s where things can get difficult, that place between genuine support of the police and a dislike or distrust of wearing any message—no matter how well-intended or seemingly positive—that is thrust on people. Blue Lives Matter was launched in the wake of the Black Lives Matter movement. It can be a hot-button issue even though many people—maybe even most people—who support Blue Lives Matter feel they are not making a political statement. Please note that this editorial is not a commentary about the rights/wrongs/in-betweens of any social movement. But maybe governmental bodies should avoid potentially muddy waters with things like vehicle stickers. Where did protest of the new design surface? Social media. Some people posting their thoughts on the topic took exception for different reasons about having to display the sticker. And, of course, a lot of people had the opposite opinion. Many who were not in favor of the sticker claimed they lived in Orland Park and had no problem at all with the intention of the sticker, but they thought it should be kept in the realm of personal expression. As for the concerns of veterans mentioned by Mr. La Margo, we checked with the U.S. Flag Code, a law that spells out the rules for handling and displaying the flag. The code is very particular about what cannot be done to an actual, physical flag, but it isn’t specific (at least to our eyes) about what is not allowed—if anything—about creating a drawing or image of what looks basically like the U.S. flag but with liberties taken with color, design, etc. Still, we completely understand that veterans might not want our iconic flag to be depicted in any alternative way whatsoever. We reached out to Jerry Ashley, Judge Advocate of the Orland Memorial Post 111 of the American Legion. “The flag is a symbol of our country,” he said. “Our Stars and Stripes are our Stars and Stripes.” The replacement vehicle sticker, still in the design phase, will depict a traditional U.S. flag, still with the words Orland Park Supports Police. However, vehicle owners who object to the wording will be allowed to snip it off before applying the sticker. We suspect far, far more vehicles will display the full sticker than not, but we’re glad the new decision has been made. Drive on.
Fighting oppressive taxes in Cook County Taxes in Cook County are forcing me to take a closer look at how I spend my hard earned money. One thing I am doing is being more aware of opportunities to save money when shopping. Cook County taxpayers have to start thinking the way shoppers do who clip coupons. It’s a hassle but it’s a part of their everyday lives. It’s the only way to beat unfair taxes. For example, every Sunday morning I drive my son to Synagogue in Indiana. Before, I would drop him off, and drive back later to pick him up. Now, while he’s there, I take advantage of the fact that I am in Indiana and I go grocery shopping down the street at the Jewel Osco. Taxes in Indiana are only 7 percent, compared to 9.75 percent in Orland Park. I save about $20 to $40 every time I grocery shop in Indiana. Obviously, if I drove there just to shop, I’d have to figure in the cost of gasoline. But, whether I am in Indiana, or in Will (6.25 percent), or DuPage (7 percent), the gas costs are irrelevant. Last year, Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle rammed through a 1 cent per ounce hike on soda pop. It takes effect July 1. That’s on top of the sales tax rate. I love Diet Coke and I drink a lot of it, everyday. In all honesty, though, it’s not the increase that upsets me. I’m going to go broke paying 16 cents more for each pop I drink. It’s the principle that upsets me and it should upset you. Preckwinkle really hasn’t eliminated any waste in Cook County government since she was elected. She could combine agencies to eliminate redundancies and actually lay peo-
RAY HANANIA ple off. She could crack down on excessive pensions, the biggest burden on taxpayers. This is the trend in Cook County politics. Raise taxes instead of providing real leadership. The soda tax was a major mistake on Preckwinkle’s part. Maybe she doesn’t go grocery shopping the way I do. But my desire for soda pop is want gets me to stop at a grocery store to buy groceries. It’s the lead item that fuels my grocery spending. I bet most shoppers who drink soda pop are like me. Preckwinkle’s pop hike is the last straw. Taxpayers need to change their buying habits. It’s easy. Look at your driving and travel habits. Buy food when you are in another county or another state and it’s convenient. Even if you have to drive to another county, what you spend on gas is better than giving the money to Preckwinkle to waste. Each time I buy groceries outside of Cook County, I feel good. The savings is measurable. The choice is simple. Either spend 16 cents more on pop and get angry, or spend 16 cents more on gas and feel better. Illinois clearly has financial problems but when you look at the causes, they all trace back to Cook County and Chicago, bottomless pits of political and wasteful spending
that we really don’t have to tolerate. It’s not just Preckwinkle’s soda tax that bothers me. I live in Orland Park, which has one of the highest sales taxes in the state, 9.75 percent. When Mayor Dan McLaughlin imposed the 1-cent Sales Tax many years ago, he promised to off-set it for residents by totally rebating their local property taxes we paid. Of course, as time went on, McLaughlin reneged on the deal. Instead of fully rebating our local property taxes, McLaughlin reduced the rebate. And every four years at election time, we’re reminded that we get our property taxes “rebated.” Well, not “fully rebated.” But it still looks good in the election literature, I guess. It’s little things like that detail that upset me. I like Dan. He’s a nice guy. Orland has grown enormously over the years. But I hate to see promises change, or promises made that should never have been made in the first place. Preckwinkle campaigned against her predecessor, Todd Stroger, vowing not to raise the sales tax. Stroger lost because he proposed raising the County Sales Tax 1-Cent. Preckwinkle opposed it. Not long after Preckwinkle was elected, she turned around and hiked the sales tax. Stroger’s real problem wasn’t his sales tax hike plan. It was his failure to manage county government efficiently. Yet despite that, at least he was honest. Ray Hanania is an award wining columnist and author who covered Chicago City Hall from 1976 until 1992. Email him at rghanania@gmail.com.
READERS WRITE Dear Editor, Get ready, folks. For all Palos Park and Palos Heights residents who are interested in the status of the petition for rezoning the property at 7831, 7839 and 7919 West McCarthy Rd., here is a “heads up.” In December 2016 the developer withdrew his petition to rezone the parcels from R1 residential to B2 business in order to construct a medical office building. As was reported in The Regional News on
February 2, 2017, the developer has again approached the Village of Palos Park on this matter. At the February 13, 2017 Palos Park Village Council meeting, the council appointed five new members to the Plan Commission, retaining two existing Plan Commission members who were not present at the hearing on the developer’s original petition. At the February 27, 2017 Village Council meeting, Village Manager Richard Boehm recom-
mended amending the village code to correct the voting requirements provision as set forth in the code to comply with state statute. This amendment is scheduled to be presented to the Plan Commission for a vote on April 20, 2017.The developer could choose to have his petition set for rehearing on the same date if public notice requirements are met. Residents should look for a public notice of the hearing date
on the developer’s petition. This notice may appear in The Regional News as early as this month. Neighbors who are directly affected by this proposed development and who are opposed to any zoning change will again be out encouraging support from other residents and distributing flyers with updates on the status of this matter. — Patty Oakley, Palos Park
We welcome more kind people in our lives Owned and operated by Southwest Regional Publishing Co.
By Dr. Glenn Mollette
I’m missing people. In recent years I have eulogized at my wife’s father’s The Business Side The News Side funeral as well as her mother’s Donna Brown, Sales Director Anthony Caciopo, Editor funeral this past January. I Monica Cotter, Finance Director Dermot Connolly, Reporter Debbie Perrewe, Classified Manager Jeff Vorva, Sports Editor recently did it again at a funeral Mike Russell, Production Director Lauren Ziemann, Art Director service for my mother-in lawRita Crosley, Pre-press Manager Chuck Ingwersen, Designer from my first marriage. My first wife died in 2002. Southwest Regional Publishing My mother and father have 12243 S. Harlem Ave. passed on, along with most of Palos Heights, IL 60463 my aunts and uncles, with the Phone: (708) 448-4000 exception of one living aunt, Fax: (708) 448-4012 Lucille. This reminds me that Website: www.theregionalnews.com I hope to see her at the family email: TheRegional@comcast.net reunion in May. Office hours: Monday-Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Recently, my sister’s daughter, who lived beside my Kentucky Deadlines home, passed after a lifelong Editorial: Noon, Saturday • Advertising: 5 p.m., Monday battle with diabetes. She was 53 Subscription rates: Local, delivered by mail, $48 a year in advance. Out-of-State, $58 years old. a year. Single copies, $1. Postmaster: Send address changes to THE REGIONAL NEWS, One of my dear friends died a 12243 S. Harlem Ave., Palos Heights, IL 60463 and additional post offices. couple of years ago from cancer The Regional News cannot be responsible for the return of unsolicited material. USPS and another dear friend is ap419-260 Periodical postage paid at Palos Heights, IL 60463 and additional post offices. parently suffering from dementia Entered as periodical mail at the Post Office at Palos Heights, IL, 60643 and and unable to communicate additional post offices under the Act of March 3, 1879. much anymore. I miss laughing © Entire contents copyright 2015 Southwest Regional Publishing with these guys. I keep trying to make new friends. However, it seems like my old friends are This newspaper is dedicated to the memory of those who gave their lives to protect America’s dying off quicker than I can freedom of the press, whenever and however it make new friends. may be threatened. I miss my childhood pastor Mark Hornung, Chief Operating Officer
who used to brag on me and always had a good word. I missed an old paper editor who brought me into the fold and mentored my writing. Of course, they are both dead now. I miss my high school basketball coach, who was a star player himself. He was so gifted at cussing us out at halftime and telling us everything we had done with the basketball except actually playing with it. He also knew how to extend a compliment, encourage and point out the good that he saw in others and me. I miss that guy. When I go to my old home church the people I see now are a handful of people who are about my age. There is the exception of Mug and Ilene. They seemed like old people when I was a kid and the last time I was in church on a Wednesday night, they were there in attendance. Ilene used to pick me up for church and Mug did some nice things for me as well. I hope I see them for a long, long time. And then there is Miss Southard. I was her pastor 15 years ago. My wife and I go to see her every couple of months. She is filled with vigor and per-
sonality. At the age of 95, she still drives, gardens and greets at church. She is independent and has lived in her home for the last 50 or so years. She is filled with gladness and kindness. She never misses a beat to embrace us, love us and say good things to us both. We were driving from Baltimore, Md., to Charleston, W. Va., and we were somewhat amazed by our drive. One guy made a point of pulling in front of us and slamming on his brakes. I guess we hadn’t been driving fast enough in the fast lane for him, but 76 mph was more than we should have been going. Another guy was coming up the exit ramp and I couldn’t pull over to give him all the room he wanted so he just started honking and giving me the finger. This reminded me of my five-mile stretch of highway that I drive a lot in Indiana, where I get the finger a couple of times a week from our kind motorists in our beloved Hoosier state. Sadly, kindness is just not in vogue today it seems and I don’t like it. I still can’t believe that elected political people did not have the decency and human kindness to stand up
for the widow of slain Navy Seal Carryn Owens at President Trump’s address to Congress on Feb. 28. Regardless of your politics and however you view Trump’s reasoning, there should be respect for the slain Navy Seal, Ryan Owens; his widow, Carryn Owens, and all those who serve and have served. A lot of leadership people today are teaching us how to act and live. More and more it’s all about trash talk, rude comments and crude behavior toward others. If we want kids across America to show some respect to each other and demonstrate kindness to others then it must be jump-started anew and afresh by the big people who are seen and heard throughout our country. I miss a lot of people from days of old who have passed on. I am especially missing those who knew and understood kindness and how to treat others. So is most of America. I know there are millions of kind people still in America. They just need to stand up. Glenn Mollette is a syndicated columnist and author of 11 books.
BUSINESS
The Regional News
FINANCIAL FOCUS
Plan for health care costs during retirement When you retire, some of your expenses may go down — but health care is not likely to be one of them. In fact, your health care costs during retirement may well increase, so you may want to plan for these costs well before you leave the work force. How much can you expect to spend on health care during your retirement years? Consider these statistics: • A 65-year-old couple who retired in 2016 will need about $288,000 (in today’s dollars) during retirement just to pay Medicare Parts B, D and supplemental insurance, according to HealthView Services, a company that provides health care cost projections for financial services firms. If out-ofpocket costs such as deductibles, co-pays, hearing, vision and dental are included, the lifetime figure rises to about $377,000 in today’s dollars. • The national average for a private room in a nursing home is more than $92,000 per year, according to a survey by Genworth, an insurance company. And the services of a home health aide cost more than $45,000 per year, according to the same survey. Medicare typically pays very little of these costs. To cope with these expenses, you’ll want to integrate them into your overall retirement saving and investing strategies. Knowing the size of a potential health care burden may help motivate you to put as much as you can afford into your 401(k), IRA and other retirement accounts. Even when you’re retired, part of your portfolio should be devoted to growth-oriented investments, such as stocks, to help pay for rising health care costs. It’s true that stocks will always fluctuate, and you don’t want to be forced to sell them when their price is down. However, you can help yourself avoid this problem by also owning a good mix of other investments, such as investment-grade corporate bonds, government securities and certificates of deposit (CDs), whose value may be more stable than that of stocks.
Orland Park Al-Amawi Rafat M to Community Sav Bk Tr, 9351 Whitehall Ln, Unit #41B, $164,000; First Midwest Bk Tr to Siemiawski Darrel J, 11538 Hidden Valley CV, $342,500; Christie Michael F to Cofran Joseph, 7813 Keystone Rd, $420,000; Schultz Joseph to Snuckel Darren, 9862 Treetop Dr, Unit #6, $182,000; Gilmore Lagel S Tr to Standard B&T Co Tr, 15126 Sunset Ridge Dr, $230,000; Didonato Vincent Tr to Deppe John, 15312 Windsor Dr, $255,000; Staehlin-Sturnieks Ugis to Mcelree Shane P, 17922 Lennan Brook Ln, $205,000; Milligan Ryan M to Azzaline Sara A, 8301 138th Pl, $268,000; Thornley Douglas W to Alvarado Marcos, 11855 Oregon Trl, $289,000; Koviekis Steven to Pinkowski Kenneth J Sr, 13846 S Logan Dr, $300,000;
Another way to help defray the costs of health care is to work part-time a few years after you had originally planned to retire. This added income can help you delay tapping into your IRA and 401(k), thus giving these accounts a chance to potentially grow further. Plus, you may be able to put off taking Social Security, and the longer you wait until you start collecting benefits, the bigger your checks will be, at least until they top out at age 70 These suggestions may help you meet many of your typical medical costs during retirement, but what about long-term care expenses, such as an extended stay in a nursing home or the need for home health care assistance? As mentioned above, these costs can be enormous. Fortunately, the financial marketplace does provide some cost-effective solutions for long-term care — solutions that may help you avoid “self-insuring.” A financial professional can provide you with some recommendations in this area. It’s probably unavoidable that your health care costs will rise, and possibly keep rising, when you’re retired. But by being aware of these expenses years in advance, and by following a diligent saving and investment strategy — one that may also include a long-term care component — you can improve your “financial fitness” for dealing with health care costs.
message includes a callback number. The scammer asks for money if the potential victim calls back. Police warn residents to not give out any personal information to such callers. Anyone who thinks he or she has been targeted by a caller of this nature is urged to call police.
Usman Rowell R to Becker Terry C, 9025 Croydon Ln, $277,000; Handley James E Tr to Loerop Steven, 7713 Sycamore Dr, $200,000; Norris Diane to Adolph Mikisha, 9137 Sandpiper Ct, Unit #32, $109,000; Leonard Clarice to Paradise Robert J, 10713 Hollow Tree Rd, $330,000; Orland Kensington Plz LLC to Chicago Trust Co Tr, 14620 LaGrange Rd, $1,650,000; First Midwest Bk Tr to Amaya Manuel, 10829 Pamela Ln, Unit #72, $252,500; Brendich Timothy J to Carden Michael D, 14019 Cheswick Dr, $325,000; Darden Paul to Lipovsky Robert H, 18237 Hidden Valley Cv, $400,000; First Midwest Bk Tr to Schnell-Harrison Kira, 14000 Catherine Dr, $227,000; Patel Narendra B Tr to Mila Rizo, 17107 Deer Run Dr, $370,000; Young Kathleen Tr to Cousins Maryse, 17336 Antler Dr, $425,000; Loritz Regina to Sood Gagan, 14923 Highland Ave, $148,000; Goyal Kamlesh K to Ibrahim Mamoun, 7514 Tiffany Dr, $221,000;
RATES APR POINTS 4.250 4.285 0 3.500 3.555 0 4.250 4.295 0
United Trust Bank (as of March 6)
RATES APR POINTS 4.180 4.201 0 3.500 3.537 0 3.375 3.428 0
Prospect Federal (as of March 6)
30-year fixed 20-year fixed 15-year fixed
A Palos Heights-based bakery chain opened its second store last month in a former RadioShack location in Crestwood. Doughs Guys Bakery opened a storefront bakery at 13545 S. Cicero Ave. in Crestwood on Feb. 22. The bakery also operates four satellite bakeries at the Orland Park, Oak Forest and Palos Park Metra train stations and the Oak Lawn Public Library. Hours at the Crestwood location will be 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday, 6 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday. Doughs Guys also offers catering for parties, corporate events, weddings and other events.
Tracy James C Ind Extr to Rutkowski Stanislaw, 7913 Woodruff Dr, $345,000; Van Wagner Scott C to Assaf Bahaiddeen A, 16420 Francis Ct, Strack & Van Til closing $195,000.
four stores in Illinois
Northwest Indiana-based Strack & Van Til announced last week it would close five stores including one on Chicago’s Southwest Side. The supermarket chain said it would close a longtime Strack store in Merrillville and four of its low-cost Ultra stores in Illinois including a store at the Westport Commons Shopping Center at 3250 W. 87th St. in Chicago. Other Illinois stores to be closed are in Chicago’s Logan Square community, Downers Grove and Lombard. The company said the stores were not profitable and their leases were up. The stores are expected to close by April 30. The retailer will continue to operate Ultra stores in Calumet Park, Crestwood, Lansing, Chicago Heights and Forest Park. Palos Park The company operates under Sundermeier Michael G to Nugent George, 11924 Winslow Rd, the Strack & Van Til, Ultra and Town & Country brands. $350,000; Klaus Terry W to Jaber Husam Y, 1 Dan Mar Trl, $500,000; Gourmet popcorn store Meany Karen W to Romanskyy Vasyl, 236 Prairie View Dr, opens in Flossmoor Pop’N By, a gourmet popcorn $355,000. Palos Heights Enright James P to Zelenka Zoran, 13051 Pueblo Ct, $300,000; Reif Nancy M to Morrison Derek, 7939 Old Georges Way, Unit #7939, $205,000; Breems Byron D to Odonnell James E, 13212 Oak Hills Pky, Unit #132121B, $170,000; Two D Grp LLC to Jones Patrice, 6737 W Navajo Dr, $174,000; Richel Gerald R Jr to Jig LLC, 12536 Parkside Ave, $175,000; Bowen Daniel R to Calabrese John J, 6130 W 124th St, $265,000; Anderson James R to Jencius Stephen, 12839 Ponderosa Dr, $257,000.
BOB BONG store, celebrated its grand opening last month in downtown Flossmoor. The store is located at 2550 Central Drive and hours are noon to 6 p.m. Monday to Saturday. For information, call (469) 8039200 or visit its Facebook page at Pop ‘N By.
Chipain’s is closing in Lemont It’s the final days for Chipain’s Fresh Market in Lemont, which will be closing for good this month. The store at 1100 State St. opened in Lemont in 1988 after being open for 59 years on Chicago’s Northwest Side. “It has been a great run,” the Chipain family wrote on its Facebook page when announcing the planned closure.
St. Vincent thrift store closes in Beverly The St. Vincent de Paul Thrift Store at 9231 S. Western Ave. closed last month, but will continue to accept donations when a new donation center opens in a nearby parish, the organization announced. The St. Vincent de Paul Society said thrift stores at 7010 W. 159th St. in Orland Park and
Answers
Puzzle on Page 7
in Libertyville will remain open for business. The society said the Beverly store closed due to contractual obligations related to the sale of the property. Chicago CEO Jim Lonergan said on the society’s website that the sale was part of “an exciting new chapter of growth that will allow the organization to extend its reach with new programs and services and additional store locations in the future.”
New owner for River Oaks Mall The sale of River Oaks Center in Calumet City was finalized last week. Masson Asset Management Inc., in combination with Namdar Realty Group, bought the mall from Washington Prime Group. Namdar Realty Group, of Great Neck, N.Y., owns numerous shopping malls, plazas and office buildings in eastern and Midwestern states. The mall, which opened in 1966, has two vacant anchor storefronts. Carson Pirie Scott and Sears both closed in 2013. The River Oaks Theatre closed in 2008. 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.
Sudoku
Puzzle on Page 7
IT’S TAX TIME ARE YOU READY? CALL A PROFESSIONAL
Consumer Loans Made Easy United Trust Bank offers a wide variety of consumer loans to fit your needs! Please contact one of our Loan Officers to discuss any of the following consumer products: • New and Used Car/Truck Loans • Certificate of Deposit Loans • Home Equity Loans
Contact John Hyland, President; Kenneth Shapiro; or Robert Holik today!
RATES APR POINTS 4.125 4.171 .25 3.875 3.938 .25 3.375 3.438 .25
All rates subject to change daily. Equal opportunity lenders.
Photo by Bob Bong
Sharks sighted in Orland Park
store in Crestwood
First Midwest Bank (as of March 6)
30-year fixed 15-year fixed 10-year fixed
Sharks Fish & Chicken is opening soon near 159th Street and Harlem Avenue in Orland Park.
A South Holland-based restaurant chain that specializes in fish and chicken will soon be opening on 159th Street in Orland Park. Sharks Fish & Chicken is getting ready to open a new location at 7120 W. 159th St. in a former Pizza Hut location. It has several locations across the south suburbs. The eatery serves family-style fish and chicken meals including ocean perch or catfish with sides such as hush puppies, okra and cole slaw. The chain has party packs of fried fish or chicken wings and Jim Van Howe is a financial advisor with Edward offers catering and delivery. A late winter or early spring Jones in Palos Heights. His office is at 7001 W. opening is expected. 127th St. He can be reached at 361-3400. This article was written by Edward Jones for use by Doughs Guys opens new your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor.
Mortgage Rates Around the Area 30-year fixed 15-year fixed 30-year fixed Jumbo
COMINGS & GOINGS
Edward Jones
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.
5
Jim Van Howe
Beware of credit bureau phone scam The Palos Park Police Department is warning residents of a new scam in which potential victims receive a voicemail claiming to be from a credit bureau. The caller threatens the recipient that a lawsuit is being filed against him or her. The caller says the victim will be arrested. The
Thursday, March 9, 2017
LIST YOUR TAX SERVICES HERE! 12330 S. Harlem Ave., Palos Heights, IL 60463 (708) 728-9900 • Fax (708) 728-9270 • UTBHome.com
Call 708-448-4000 and ask for Donna Brown for pricing, sizes and more information!
6 Thursday, March 9, 2017
The Regional News
DEATH NOTICES LaVonne Grace Lundell LaVonne Grace Lundell entered into the arms of her Lord on March 1, 2017 at Shannondale Health Care Center in Maryville, TN after a short illness. LaVonne was born on January 17, 1926 in Birmingham, Alabama. After graduating high school at Berry in Rome, Georgia, she majored in violin at Maryville College (class of 1948). She was married to Rev. Dr. Paul Lundell for almost 60 years and served alongside him while he was Senior Pastor of Central Presbyterian Church, Petersburg, IL; Palos Park Presbyterian Community Church, Palos Park, IL; and Dundee Presbyterian Church, Omaha, NE. She was an award-winning artist and active
Sofie Shields
Packed with hope Students from Southwest Chicago Christian School in Oak Lawn traveled to the Elim Adult Services location in Orland Park to assist Elim adults assemble “Elim Hope Packs.” The packs are school supplies that are assembled and delivered to disadvantaged children around the world. The Hope Packs also provide meaningful work for adults with developmental disabilities. Taking part in the project is Southwest Chicago Christian School eighth grade student Dailyn Burks (right), assembling a Hope Pack with Elim adults.
Believes that divine hand allowed for payment of tenant’s fee A cheerful giver isn’t exactly what I’d call my husband, Don. I recall when the offering plate began its transfer down the pew at the Apostolic Church of God (ACOG) back in 2002, our first year of marriage. He was comfortable tossing in a couple of Abraham Lincoln’s, but when I told him we needed to replace those ten dollars with a tenth of our income, he gazed at me like I’d lost my marbles. With one eyebrow raised he snarled, “You can give a tenth of your income, but not with mine!” I crinkled my forehead. “But, didn’t you hear Bishop Brazier? We’re supposed to tithe!” “Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. Test me in this,” says the Lord Almighty, and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that there will not be room enough to store it,” would recite the late, Dr. Arthur M Brazier, former senior pastor of the ACOG. That was the extent of his petition during offering time. He didn’t plead, or engage in persuasive gimmickry. He would simply share that one passage from Malachi 3:10. As a result of his teaching, I began to give a tenth of my income on a consistent basis, which is also known as tithing. Since Don couldn’t quite ascertain why tithing was necessary, as the household finance manager, I refrained from giving his portion until he was ready. Somewhere between Bishop Brazier’s weekly reciting of Malachi 3:10, my routine compliance and our CPA making it known that an increase in charitable donations would reduce our bottom line, his position changed. We’ve been faithful givers ever since. Don’t confuse that with us loaning or just giving money to people randomly. We don’t, so please don’t ask! We give tithes and offering to the church, and to those where we feel led by God. Giving has increased our faith. I have a truck load of examples of what keeps us habitually giving, but allow me to share one. It hadn’t been but a spell that new tenants had taken residence in one of our rental properties. I had yet to transfer one of the utilities out of my name, so when the bill would come to our address, I’d mail it to them -- usually the same day. Nevertheless, in this instance, that bill stared at me on a daily basis until the month had nearly escaped me. This was so unlike me; I was usually so prompt. Feeling as though I’d put the tenants at a disadvantage to pay the bill by its due date, I felt an internal leading to just pay it. It was as if God had distracted me from sending the bill to them because He intended me to pay it for them. Are you buying that? Don wasn’t, at first. I tend to have an open prayer dialog. “God, if you’re leading me to pay their bill, you’ll need to work on Don because I can already hear his resounding, ‘Oh, no we are not,” I prayed. I began to imagine how Don might respond, “How do you figure that was the Lord speaking? What’d his voice sound like?
How do you know it wasn’t the Devil that caused you not to mail their bill?” Don was at work and I knew it’d be a long conversation so I decided to first deal with our television issue. I had several conversations with the warranty company over a part that was needed to repair the DVD player in our TV/DVD combo unit. Frustrated by the time it was taking for the matter to be resolved, I called yet one more time that morning to check the status. “Sorry for the delay Mrs. Parker. I’ve verified your claim and a check in the amount of $850.43 has been mailed,” said the agent on the line. Baffled, I questioned his accuracy. “Are you sure you’ve accessed the correct account? I’ve been waiting for a part, not a check!” The agent replied. “The TV/ DVD combo unit you purchased is now obsolete. You have a full replacement warranty, which obligates us to replace your entire unit if it can’t be fixed. We no longer carry the part, so we’ve issued you a check for the amount you paid.” I was still confused. “But sir, the TV works fine; it’s only the DVD that’s broken.” He replied, “You’re free to do with the unit as you please. We aren’t retrieving it, continue
using it if you’d like.” “Whaaaat?” I thought, “Sure will keep using it!” Now armed with ammo, I made the call to Don. “Babe, let me tell you what God just did,” I said excitedly. “So, He laid it on my heart to pay the tenant’s water bill. I figured you might not want me to do that so, I prayed, ‘God, please reveal a way for Don to know that this is your idea.’ And Babe, you won’t believe this!” Don was listening, “Hmmm uh. Go on,” he nudged. With full theatrics, I explained how God had miraculously provided the money for us to bless our tenant. Their bill wasn’t but a third of that refund check, which happened to arrive in the mail that day. We paid their bill, kept the TV and just bought a separate DVD unit. We had $400 left to deposit in the bank. Experiences like this are so plentiful in our lives, I could pen another book on how to sow and reap God’s blessings. But, I don’t need to. Just believe what it says in Malachi 3:10. Tithes are funds used to build up the church and further the work of the Lord throughout the world. It’s too overwhelming for me to determine where and to whom to allocate my tithes. God makes it simple: bring your tithes into the storehouse, which is the church. Let them determine where it goes. Don’t get caught up in whether or not they are appropriating the funds according to your preference. Just give cheerfully! God’s got all kinds of ways to prosper his people, even the ones with a spouse that has one eyebrow raised! Claudia Parker is an author, photographer and a reporter. Her columns appear every second and fourth Thursday of each month. She can be reached at AuthorClaudiaParker@yahoo.com.
LEGAL NOTICE PUBLIC NOTICE Notice of Initiation of the Section 106 Process-Public Participation in accordance with the FCC’s Nationwide Programmatic Agreement. Mobilitie proposes to construct an approximately 100 ft. pole at Lat: 41.660716 N, Long: 87.777481 W, approx. 0.02 mi S of W 127th St & Ridgeland Ave intersection, Palos Heights, Cook County, IL 60463. Parties interested in details regarding the telecommunication pole or in providing comment on the proposed undertaking relative to potential effects on historic properties should contact GSS, Inc., 3311 109th Street, Urbandale, IA 50322 (515) 331-2103 (GSS W16841-IL-18).
LEGAL NOTICE LEGAL NOTICE ANNUAL TOWN MEETING TOWN OF PALOS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN to the electors, residents of the Town of Palos, Cook County, Illinois, that the Annual Town Meeting of said Town will take place on April 11, 2017, being the second Tuesday of the said month, at the hour of 7:00 P.M., at the Palos Township Hall, 10802 South Roberts Road, Palos Hills, Illinois, for the transaction of the business of the Town, and the moderator having been elected will proceed to hear for consideration, reports of the officers of said Town and decide on such measures as may, in pursuance of law, come before the meeting. GIVEN under my hand at Palos Township this 1st day of March, 2017. Jane A. Nolan Clerk Town of Palos Cook County, Illinois
Sofie Grace Shields, 8 a resident of Palos Park, died Feb. 27 at Lurie Children’s Hospital. She was born in Hinsdale. Survivors include her parents, Michelle (nee Vorwald) and Eric; sister, Kol; grandmother, Kathy Vorwald; grandparents, Winston and Aase Shields; great- grandmother, Daisy Shields; and many relatives and friends. Services were Monday from Palos-Gaidas Funeral Home to Our Lady of the Woods Church.
Randall Eicas
Randall A. Eicas, 66, a Palos Heights resident, died Feb. 24 at Palos Hospital. Survivors include his wife, Cathy (nee Uelman);
in several chapters of PEO. LaVonne was preceded in death by her parents, Lyman and Ida Belle (Dunagan) Heard, brother Lyman Heard Jr., and her loving husband Rev. Paul Lundell. She is survived by her sister Martha George of Florida, daughter Rev. Barbara and son-in-law Rev. Thomas Peters of New Jersey, son David and daughter-in-law Laura (Dance) Lundell of Tennessee, grandchildren Alison and Trevor Peters, Amy Lundell, foreign exchange student daughter Christa Murtinger of Vienna, Austria and many other relatives. Services were held in Maryville, TN last Friday. Internment of the ashes will be at a later date in Northbrook, IL. daughter, Dawn Artis; and two grandchildren. Services were Feb. 27 at Bevar & Son Funeral Home. Interment followed at Resurrection Cemetery.
Henry Kamp
Henry “Hank” Kamp, 84, a former longtime Palos Heights resident, died March 2 at the Spectrum Health Blodgett Hospital in Grand Rapids, Mich. Mr. Kamp, a U.S. Army veteran, was self-employed as a printer and decorator. Survivors include his wife, Carol L. Kamp; daughter, Cindy Kerlin; sons, Bob Kamp and David Kamp; sister, Jeanette Kwasteniet Hop; brother, Peter Kamp; six grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews. A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. today (Thursday, March 9) at Colonial Chapel, 1525 S. 73rd Ave., Orland Park.
Gather at annual St. Joseph’s Table to benefit Orland Township Food Pantry A Saint Joseph’s Table, a long standing Italian-American tradition, will be held on from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. Sunday, March 19 at the Orland Park Civic Center, 14750 South Ravinia Avenue. The event is open to everyone. One of the most beloved saints among Italian-Americans, Saint Joseph is the patron saint of workers and the protector of the family. He is honored with a feast day on March 19. The Saint Joseph Table tradition dates back to the Middle Ages when there was a severe drought in Sicily. The people prayed to their patron, Saint Joseph, asking for relief. When the
rains returned the people used their crops to give thanks and share their good fortune, said Orland Park Village Trustee Dan Calandriello, who will host the event. “I’m very excited to be hosting the third annual Saint Joseph’s Table, inviting the community to come together to enjoy a simple pasta dinner,” he said. “In the tradition of Saint Joseph’s Table, we will bring neighbors together, fostering a small-town feel for Orland Park. Community members will come together to share a meal and each other’s company. It’s my hope that families come together and cherish the time they
spend not only with their family members but also with their neighbors.” Attendees are asked to bring non-perishable food items. The items will be donated to the Orland Township Food Pantry. The table will start with a musical homage to Saint Joseph performed by members of the Carl Sandburg band. There will be pasta, salad, bread and desserts served with soft drinks, water and coffee. There are no tickets required for entry, just a non-perishable food item. More information can be obtained by calling 708-699-5432.
103rd Street. Described as a “one-stop-shop” of free health services, the fair includes free screenings and assessments for blood pressure, blood glucose, bone density, hearing and vision, injuries, stress, body mass index, spinal cord and more.
Mentally Ill (NAMI) is offering a free, six-week course for family and friends of persons who are living with a mental illness. The course is called Family to Family and will be held at 7 p.m. beginning April 4 in Palos Hills. Materials will be provided at no cost. Registration is required. Additional information, including the exact location, can be obtained by calling Len Renz at (708) 3102038.
HEALTH BEAT Offer free health screenings at St. Xavier University Free health screenings, assessments and information are available at Saint Xavier University’s (SXU) 14th Annual Community Health Fair, from 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Friday, March 24. The fair is free and open to the public and will be held in the Shannon Center at the university’s Chicago campus, 3700 West
Mental illness is focus of six-week program for family and friends The National Alliance for the
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 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 9, 2017
Moraine Valley Foundation hosts inaugural alumni weekend In honor of the 50th anniversary of Moraine Valley Community College, the foundation will host the first Alumni Weekend April 7 and 8. The celebration kicks off on Friday, April 7 with a Welcome Back Reunion from 7 to 10 p.m. at Trio, a sports bar and restaurant, 11845 Southwest Hwy., Palos Heights. “This is the perfect opportunity to get the gang back together and gather with other alums for a fun night of memories and friendship,” said Pat Trebe, assistant director of annual giving
and alumni relations. “Back 2 the Valley” festivities on Saturday, April 8 bring alumni back to campus for a day of activities. Continental breakfast will be available at 9 a.m. A wide range of mini-courses offered to help attendees feel like students again will include video making, photography, culinary arts and a history of rock and roll. Attendees can have lunch with family and friends and attend the brick dedication in the college’s Shakespeare Garden. The day’s events will conclude with a 3 p.m. tour of the campus.
Tickets for the Welcome Back Reunion are $25 per person, which includes hot appetizers and two drink tickets. A cash bar is available. Tickets for Back 2 the Valley are $15, which includes lunch. Alumni interested in attending both events can purchase a special combination ticket for $30. Online registration can be completed at morainevalley.edu/ alumniweekend. More information can be obtained by contacting Trebe at (708) 974-5551 or trebep@morainevalley.edu.
CROSSWORD PUZZLE Across 1 Detergent with Oxi Booster 4 DVD precursor 7 Scout, to Tonto 12 “Face the Nation” group 15 “My mom’s gonna kill me!” 17 Uncle relative? 18 Golden Globe, e.g. 19 Nail care target 21 Congressional period 22 Vocal quartet member 23 Use WhatsApp, say 24 Junior nav. officer 25 Long time follower 27 Manipulator 29 Cut 31 Roll of dough 32 Popular weekend destination for many Northern Californians 33 Deceitful 37 Remove 39 Drop (out) 41 Russian lettuce? 42 Fog machine substance 44 Average 46 Ballerina’s hairdo 47 Prohibit 48 Offensive to some, for short 49 Rescue squad initials 50 ___ Fridays 53 Speak harshly 55 “Fine by me” 57 Salon piece 59 Swallowed one’s pride 62 Chinese cooking staple 64 “__ were the days” 65 Not working 66 “Lone Survivor” military group 67 Speak, old-style 68 Not strict 69 One of two in Pompeii Down 1 “Paradise Lost,” e.g. 2 Marinara brand 3 Singer whose last name is
The Chicago Christian High School mock trial team placed second out of 16 teams at the Lake County Invitational on Feb. 25. Seniors Abby Haan, of Palos Heights; Alyssa Rumbuc and junior Niara Foster won the “Outstanding Lawyer” award. Freshman Ella Altena, of Evergreen Park, won the “Outstanding Witness” award. The team members are (from left) Rumbuc, Aletna, Hann, Foster, Coach Jack Haan, Anna Huisenga, Oak Lawn; Liz Bulthuis, Orland Park; Carly Byrnes, Oak Lawn; Abby Voss, Zach Bulthuis and Coach Neil Okuley. The Chicago Christian High School junior varsity team placed first in the junior varsity event.
St. Xavier University receives scholarship for students completing FNP studies tuition, books, and academic fees. “St. Xavier University is happy to receive the CVS Health Foundation grant to support FNP students, especially those who are bilingual and committed to providing needed healthcare services to the underserved in the Chicagoland area,” said Mary S. Haras, associate dean for graduate nursing programs. “This award will make a difference in the lives of the student recipients, lessening the financial burden of graduate education.” “As the need for qualified medical professionals in the United States grows, we know how important having a strong pipeline of family nurse practitioners and physician assistants is to making high quality, convenient, and affordable healthcare
STUDENT NEWS Orland and Palos Heights McAuley HS students earn art award Faith Primozic of Orland Park and Allison Morg of Palos Heights are among nine students at Mother McAuley High School, Chicago, who took top honors in the prestigious Scholastic Art Midwest Regional Competition. Primozic, class of 2017, earned a Silver Key award for drawing and illustration. Morg, class of 2017, earned Honorable Mention, also in the drawing and illustration category. Teens in grades seven through 12 can apply in 28 categories of art and writing for the chance to earn scholarships and have their works exhibited or published. Panelists look for works that best exemplify originality, technical skill and the emergence of a personal voice or vision. There were approximately 10,000 entries to the 2017 competition. The Belin-Blank Center at the University of Iowa serves as the Iowa and Midwest Region-atLarge Affiliate for the Scholastic Art & Writing Awards program. The Scholastic Art & Writing Awards program is the nation’s longest-running, largest, most prestigious recognition program for creative teens. Over the past 90 years, the Awards have recognized and encouraged artists and writers such as: Sylvia Plath, Andy
Warhol, Truman Capote, Robert Redford, Tom Otterness, and Zac Posen, among countless others. “I am so proud and excited to share the news about our Midwest Regional Scholastic Art Awardees,” said Visual Arts & Technology department chair Mrs. Kathy Gordon Davis. “It is most gratifying to have their hard work recognized in such a prestigious competition. These intelligent, creative and skilled young women are truly a gift to our department, school and community.” Primozic, Morg, their seven classmates and their teachers, Kathy Gordon Davis, Deanna Pierce and Kathleen Perna will be honored at The Belin-Blank Center Presents: A Scholastic Celebration in Three Acts. The event celebrates the very best artists and writers in the Iowa and Midwest Regions of the Scholastic Art & Writing Awards. The event will take place on Saturday, March 11 at the University of Iowa Memorial Union from 12:30 p.m.-4:00 p.m.
Orland Park student earns Dean’s List spot at University of Alabama Patrick Quinn Roach of Orland Park has earned Dean’s List distinction at the University of Alabama for the fall, 2016 term. Dean’s List status is achieved by maintaining a 3.5 or better
Pig Latin for a slang word for “money” 4 Workshop gadget 5 Derby or boater 6 Huge success 7 Toyota Center team 8 Laudatory verses 9 Tighten, as laces 10 Kept quiet 11 Paradises 13 Really bad 14 Activity for some ex-presidents 16 Good buys 20 Get rid of 23 Appears unexpectedly, and a hint to this puzzle’s circles 25 Knocked out 26 “Tootsie” actress 28 Co-producer of the art rock album “High Life” 30 Little, in Marseille
34 London locale that’s a music industry eponym 35 “America’s Got Talent” judge Heidi 36 Deep desires 38 Lust, e.g. 40 Weigh station unit 43 Praises 45 Pick out of a crowd 50 Spanish appetizers 51 Actress Scacchi 52 Birthplace of the violin 54 Peninsular capital 56 Icy Hot target 58 Supermodel Sastre 59 Longtime teammate of Derek 60 Nobel Peace Center locale 61 From Green Bay to St. Paul 63 Often rolled-over item (Answers on page 5)
SUDOKU
Chicago Christian mock trial team places second
The CVS Health Foundation has awarded St. Xavier University a $5,000 scholarship to assist students as they complete their studies to become a family nurse practitioner. The grant is part of the CVS Health Foundation Advance Practice Nurse and Physician Assistant Scholarship program that launched this year. The program is aimed at reducing the nationwide shortage of family nurse practitioners and physician assistants by supporting the academic aspirations of the most promising health care professionals of tomorrow. Scholarships are provided to accredited academic institutions across the country and funds are then distributed to students through the institution’s internal scholarship process to help cover the cost of
7
services more accessible,” said Eileen Howard Boone, president of the CVS Health Foundation. “We’re proud to support schools like St. Xavier University who are providing quality education to students pursuing a career as a nurse practitioner.” Students selected to receive scholarships by their school are in good academic standing and are pursuing an advance practice nursing master’s degree or doctorate as a family nurse practitioner, or a master’s degree as a physician assistant. In addition, scholarship recipients must intern or volunteer with an organization that supports The 17th annual Final Four underserved populations. At least Extravaganza will be held Sat25 percent of the school’s scholurday, April 1 at St. Laurence arship dollars will be awarded to High School, 5556 W. 77th St., bilingual students. Burbank. This year’s event for adults features a big Super Raffle with many cash prizes, including a $5,000 grand prize to one lucky winner. Tickets are $60 in advance, or $70 grade point average on at least at the door the night of the event. 12 credit hours of course work. This includes free food and drink “Your hard work and deter- throughout the evening. The “Evening of Baskets and mination served you well last Bucks” offers Las Vegas-style semester,” said Stuart R. Bell, gaming for the NCAA men’s baspresident of the university. “With ketball tournament. The event will this accomplishment, you were also feature a large craft-beer tastamong our academic elite for the ing area. Supporters of the school semester.” are invited to attend and renew acquaintances with friends, faculty and alumni. Proceeds will directly Author joins benefit the students at the Catholic, Independence eighth graders for live video chat college preparatory school. “As always we truly look forOn Feb. 28 students at Indeward to welcoming all of those pendence Junior High School in who share the spirit and the Palos Heights had the opportunity enthusiasm of our St. Laurence to video-chat live via Skype with community,” said Joe Martinez, Tim Tingle, author of “How I school president. Became a Ghost.” The book is a The Final Four Extravaganza 2017 Rebecca Caudhill-nominat- includes areas dedicated to casino ed Young Readers Book Award games, food and beverage service, candidate. a big raffle, craft-beer tasting, and Gia Swanson, an eighth grader basketball viewing on large televiat the school said, “It was great to sion screens. These activities are hear what he said about how he open to the public from 4 p.m. until wrote the book. He gave great ad- midnight. The event is sponsored vice on how to become a writer.” by St. Laurence High School, in The event was arranged by Re- cooperation with the Fathers Club becca King, head of Youth and and Mothers Club. Teen Services at the Palos Heights Tickets can be purchased for Public Library, 12501 S. 71st Ave. the Final Four Extravaganza by “Today’s students live in a calling (708) 458-6900, ext. 237, brave new literary world, one or visiting www.stlaurence.com in which they can connect with and clicking on to the Alumni their favorite authors,” said King. page to the link: stlfinalfour2017. “Knowing that the students had eventbrite.com a chance to talk with Mr. Tingle The exact grand prize will be made it very personal and more determined by the number of tickexiting and important for them.” ets that will be sold.
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.
(Answers on page 5)
St. Laurence CLUB ACTIVITIES Newcomers renew to host annual Palos luncheon meetings Final Four Extravaganza
The Palos Newcomers Club will renew its luncheon meetings beginning Thursday, March 23rd at 94 West, 15410 S. 94th Ave. in Orland Park. Cocktails will be available beginning at 11 a.m. Lunch will be served at noon. After a short business meeting, members and guests will be entertained by Chris Colletti, a vocalist. Reservations and more information can be obtained by calling Terry at (708) 448-6598.
SW Suburban Widow and Widowers Club set next monthly meeting Area widows and widowers are invited to meet from 7 to 9 p.m. Friday, April 7 at Zion Lutheran
Church,17100 South 69th Ave., Tinley Park. Beverages and snacks will be served. Meetings are held monthly and entertainment is offered most months. The club offers support to widowed of all faiths and ages. South Suburban Widow and Widowers Club is a group of people, caring, sharing and reaching out to one another in friendship, according to the group’s organizers. Some of the group’s activities include monthly general meetings, organized restaurant outings, dances, trips, theater outings, monthly games, discussion, interaction meetings, get-acquainted meetings for newcomers and more. More information can be obtained by calling Danell Chmura (630) 728-9368 or Bill Dolehide at (708) 342-6820.
Photo by Joe Boyle
WHATIZIT? The clue for this week’s Whatizit photo quiz (above) is: Hills saint. Send your responses with your name and hometown by noon Monday to thereporter@comcast.net. We had several readers who answered last week’s quiz correctly. The readers had a couple of options with last week’s quiz. The right answer is Klein Park at 97th and Homan, which is adjacent to the gazebo across the street at the Evergreen Park Community Center. But we would also accept Circle Park, since it is almost shaped in a circle. Evergreen Park resident Rich Rahn knew it was the support columns of the gazebo in Circle Park. Vince Pizza, of Evergreen Park, mentioned it was part of the pergola at Klein, or Circle, Park. Also answering Klein Park or Circle Park were Oak Lawn resident Steve Rosenbaum and Mary Ann Zellmann, of Burbank.
8 Thursday, March 9, 2017
COMMUNITY NEWS
The Regional News
Exhibit of museum-quality WWII artifacts opens at Palos Park gallery
A World War II exhibit curated by local collector Dr. Joe Matheu opens today and runs through Sunday, March 12 at the McCord Gallery & Cultural Center, 9602 W. Creek Rd., Palos Park. “Lest We Forget: A World War II Exhibit” features museum-quality, privately owned artifacts including uniforms, flags and other items from the United States, Nagasaki, Hiroshima and Auschwitz. The exhibit can be viewed from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m daily. Collector Dr. Joe Matheu of Palos Park has exhibited his Civil War artifacts at McCord Gallery over the years. “I love history, it fascinates me,” he said. “History comes alive when you read or hold something. It’s important for people to remember that this was a battle between good and evil.” Matheu was born in 1942 during the war and over time has expanded his love of collecting pieces to include items from the Civil War, World War II and Indian wars. He began his collection with his famShepard High School students signed an online petition at www.r-word.org promising to eradicate the ‘R-word’ ily’s ration book from the 1940s. from their vocabulary. This was one of several activities sponsored at Shepard for Respect Week. Each piece in the exhibit is unique and inspiring but the brass church bell is Matheu’s favorite Dr. Joe Matheu of Palos Park is an historian whose artifacts connected to piece. ‘”It’s such a rare artifact. I’ve WWII are on display through Sunday at the McCord Gallery & Cultural Center. never seen anything from Nagasa- destroyed the church and approx- seniors and students. Veterans, ki,” he said. “The bell itself may imately 70 percent of the city. military personnel and children be small but the sound is loud “The fact that it survived shows 12 years of age and under will and the bell is engraved with the that faith and God will prevail,” be admitted free. words ‘Angelus’ and ‘Nagasaki’.” More information about the exThe bell is just one of two found Matheu said. “These artifacts may be a sordid hibit can be obtained by calling in the church, just 500 meters from ground zero. The bell survived the part of history but it is important the McCord Gallery & Cultural Pressed three deep, Shepard Center at 708-671-0648 or visiting atomic bomb attack that killed to know,” he said. High School students lined up to Admission is $12; $10 for www.mccordgallery.org. approximately 20,000 people and sign banners and online petitions to eradicate “the R-word” (retard, retarded) from their vocabulary. With the cafeteria full of students, noise, and the typical activity of a high school lunch period, Tuesdays and from 4 p.m. to 7 dren four years of age and older. Learn about area Indian the operation nevertheless flowed trails with Palos Historical p.m. on Thursdays, as well as by There will be an interactive DJ, smoothly. And that’s because cheese pizza, ice cream sundae appointment. Society presentation bar, mom and son activities and Shepard had done this before. Indian trails of the Chicagoa commemorative photo shoot. Part of its long-term investment land area will be the topic of a Mom and son superhero Kids should dress as their favorin creating a welcoming, inclusive presentation at 7:00 p.m. Friday, date night in Palos Park ite superheroes to compete for environment for special needs stuMarch 10 in the community room prizes. Registration is $32-$38 dents, “Respect Week” has become Moms are invited to bring their per couple, with $5 charged for of the Palos Park Public Library, familiar for all Shepard students. 12330 Forest Glen Blvd., Palos little superheroes on a special date each additional child. Registration “We’re asking our students at Park. Light refreshments will be from 6 to 8 p.m. March 25 at deadline is March 17. Shepard to recognize that your the Palos Park Recreation Center, served. More information can be obchoices of language affect your at8901 W. 123rd St. The Palos Historical Society is tained by calling 708-671-3760 titude toward others,” said teacher The event is intended for chil- or visiting www.palospark.org. open from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Lauren Sheehan. “Basically, we’re emphasizing that we should all be respectful to one another.” This year’s theme was “Respect is my Superpower.” Many Shepard students wore T-shirts bearing the phrase. “Our POWER PE program has been tremendous at spreading our inclusion model. Our administraPortio • tors have been fantastic by giving proce n of e all students a chance to participate. will ds $1995 Adults • $1095 Age 10 & Under Clubs, after school programs, Spedonatbe ed. cial Olympics, movie nights, pizza Includes coffee, tea, milk and pop nights. It’s really been wonderful here,” Sheehan said. *Tax excluded On Saturday, March 11 more than 40 teachers and students from We will have a traditional St. Joseph’s Day table that includes POWER PE will take the Polar a variety of Italian specialties to honor our Patron Saint. Plunge to raise money for Illinois Shepard High School students signed a banner pledging to treat special Special Olympics at Leisure Lake needs peers with respect. Shepard organized Respect Week with the theme Please join us for this joyous occasion honoring St. Joseph. of “Respect is my Superpower.” in Joliet.
Shepard students sign up and pledge ‘respect’
COMMUNITY NOTES
Papa Joe’s of Orland Park Presents...
St. Joseph’s Day Table March 19th 1:00 p.m.
Buffet
LIBRARY NOTES Display art of Dist. 135 students in March at Orland Park Library In celebration of National Youth Art Month the art educators of School District 135 will be showcasing the colorful and unique artwork created by District 135 students in grades K-8 throughout the month of March at the Orland Park Public Library, 14921 S. Ravinia Ave., Orland Park.
Announce new programs at Orland Park Library Selected programs during March at the Orland Park Public Library include: • Video Game Club from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. March 10 for children in third through eighth grade. Participants can challenge themselves and friends to a Wii U game. • Buenas Noches Storytime will be held at 7 p.m. March 10. Children four years of age and older with a parent or adult caregiver are invited. Quiet, gentle stories will be presented in English and Spanish. • Bright Starts Family Storytime will take place at 10 a.m. March 11. Children of all ages and their families can attend. The program is designed to bring the family together for stories, songs and fun. Interactive stories will
be featured in which children participate by repeating words or phrases or making animal sounds. The books used are intended to enforce vocabulary, word recognition, rhythm and rhyme. • International Art of Costa Rica will begin at 11 a.m. March 11. The event is open to students in third through fifth grades. The program will spotlight faraway lands and explore the native arts and crafts of many countries and cultures. Registration is required with the child’s Orland Park library card. • Discovery Depot will be held from 1-4 p.m. March 11 for kids in kindergarten through eighth grade offering the opportunity to make something creative in as little as a few minutes • Adult Fiction/Nonfiction book discussion will be available at 10 a.m. March 14. “Best Boy” by Eli Gottlieb will be discussed. The author will be joining the group discussion via Skype. • Gmail Email, Part 2 will be held at 11:30 a.m. March 14. Adults will set up address book and settings within their gmail accounts. The Orland Park Library is located at 14921 Ravinia Ave., Orland Park. More information about the many other programs offered at the library can be obtained by calling (708) 428-5205.
Kids’ programs offered at Palos Heights Library • “STEM Fun” is open to children three years of age and older. They can take part in an evening of fun with science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) activities at 6 p.m. March 9. Registration is required. • “Brains Before Beauty,” an activity marking the release of the new Beauty and the Beast movie will be held for children in second grade and up at 4 p.m., March 13. The afternoon will include hands-on brainy experiments, team-building games and movie ticket door prizes. Registration is required. • “Smart Art” offers children in kindergarten through fourth grade the opportunity to use a variety of art tools and techniques to create their very own masterpieces. The class will be held at 4:00 p.m. March 14. Registration is required. • Chess matches will be offered at 7 p.m. March 15. Kids can play against, and get tips from, teen volunteers. No registration is required. The Palos Heights Public Library is located at 12501 S. 71st Ave. Registration and more information can be obtained by calling (708) 448-1473.
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 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
Vorva,Sports SportsEditor Editor••sports@regionalpublishing.com sports@regionalpublishing.com KenJeff Karrson,
Thursday,March March5,9,2015 2017 Thursday,
Southwest • Section 2, Page 1 1 Southwest • Section 2, Page
St. Xavier faces the nation
Willging is able: Junior wins national crown in 5K race By Jeff Vorva Sports Editor
Photo courtesy of St. Xavier University
The bench erupts after St. Xavier University’s basketball team shocked the No. 1 team in the nation, the University of St. Francis, Feb. 28 in Joliet.
National basketball championship would be music to Cougars’ ears
“A
ruba, Jamaica, ooh I want to take ya…’’ Thanks a lot, WXAV. Thanks a lot. While I was driving in between assignments on March 1, the St. Xavier University radio station announcers were breaking the news that the Cougars’ national power women’s basketball team was set to open play in the national tournament against Indiana University — Kokomo. So the DJs went on to spin the Beach Boys’ “Kokomo,” and that song has been spinning in my head ever since. I also found out Kokomo’s record is 21-12, which makes me think of an old and long Rush song. So those two songs are alternating in my cranium and Rush lead singer’s Geddy Lee’s screech is giving me a headache. But I digress… The Cougars (30-2) are ready to give some teams headaches as well in the next couple of days as they aim for an NAIA Division II National Cham-
pionship at the Tyson Events Center in Sioux City, Iowa. The 32-team, single-elimination tournament was scheduled to start Wednesday night, but the Cougars and Kokomo battle it out in the first round at 5:15 p.m. today, Thursday. The Couearned one of the four No. JEFF VORVA gars 1 seeds in the tournament. Making the For those who can’t make the Extra Point more-than-7-hour trip, WXAV (FM 89.3) will call the action of all the games in Sioux City. I can’t promise they won’t play “Kokomo” or “2112” or even “Sioux City Sue” during the broadcast, but with college radio, you never know… And with the national championship on the line, you never know what will happen either.
NAIA DIVISION II WOMEN’S NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP St. Xavier University’s path to the championship in the 32-team, single-elimination tournament: Thursday: St. Xavier vs. Indiana-Kokomo, 5:15 p.m. Friday: Second round, 7 p.m. Saturday: Quarterfinals, 8 p.m. Monday: Semifinals, 8 p.m. Tuesday: Championship, 7 p.m.
But if there is one team in the country that has been playing great basketball heading onto the national stage, it’s SXU. The Cougars scored triple figures against Trinity Christian College and Purdue Northwest in See VORVA, Page 3
This could be a good omen. Six days before the St. Xavier University women’s basketball team was scheduled to tip off in the NAIA Division II National Championship tournament, Cougars junior Ellie Willging became the first track athlete in school history to claim a national championship. The Freeport native won the national title in the 5K race Saturday the 2017 NAIA Indoor Track and Field National C h a m pio n s h ip s in Johnson City, Tenn. Willging finished 13 seconds ahead of the next fastest competiPhoto courtesy of SXU tor to claim the national title with St. Xavier University’s Ellie Willa school-record ging became the first athlete time of 17 min- in school history to win a track utes, 01.94 sec- national championship. onds. Her previous record was 17:24.48, set earlier this season. The previous best individual finish by a Cougars track and field athlete at either the indoor or outdoor national meet was third place, set by former standouts Rachael Dean (3K in 2011) and Ashley Shares (marathon in 2014). Willging also claimed NAIA All-American recognition for her finsh. “Ellie ran an amazing race and I could not be happier for her and her family,” SXU women’s track and field coach Lisa Ebel said. “She knew that she was capable of this type of performance, but to go out and execute it flawlessly on a national stage just speaks volumes to the elite type of athlete she is.’’ Sophomore Alex Lambros, an Oak Forest native, finished 18th in the triple jump with a distance of 11 meters. In Friday’s 1,000-meter semifinal, senior Nicole Watkins finished in 12th place with a time of 3:01.30. Junior Sierra Downey, a Morton West graduate, placed 23rd overall in the 5K in Thursday’s semifinals with a time of 18:36.98.
CLASS 4A THORNWOOD SECTIONAL: SIMEON 56, MARIST 36
‘Best team to come through Marist’ falls By Phil Arvia Correspondent
Photo by Jeff Vorva
This guy will tell you about Dipsy Divers and body baits Meet Jim Kirby, a longtime outdoors writer from Palos Park who is known for his trademark hat and pipe. He has joined our gang of sports writers. He makes his Regional-Reporter debut on Page 2 and will appear the first Thursday of each month thereafter. As he says in his introduction, he will be covering everything from fishing to mushroom picking. He also provides a calendar of what’s happening in the Midwest world of outdoors. So enjoy Kirby’s vast wealth of experience and wisdom, beginning today!
With 39.6 seconds left in what would be a 56-36 loss to Simeon in Tuesday night’s Class 4A Thornwood Sectional semifinals, Marist seniors Justin Brown and Bobby Hawkinson were pulled from a game for the last time by coach Gene Nolan. Both players made their way toward the end of the bench, shaking hands and issuing hugs along the way, until finally embracing each other before sitting. “I was thinking just how grateful I was for the season,” Hawkinson said. “It was hard, obviously,” Brown added. “Our high school careers are over with. “But I have so much love for these guys. I feel like we were definitely the best team that ever came through (Marist). … I’m going to miss it.” The RedHawks finished with a school-record 27 wins against four losses. They won their first outright East Suburban Catholic title ever, their first Centralia tournament since 1991 and a regional crown for first time since 2012. “When you see kids crying, it means they really won because they know they can’t come back tomorrow and be with each other,” Nolan said. “I’m really lucky to have been their coach.” The RedHawks showed their resilience against Simeon (27-3), the state’s top-ranked team. Trailing 30-9 halfway through the second quarter,
Photo by Jeff Vorva
Marist’s Maurice Commander (right) and Simeon’s Evan Gilyard collide Tuesday night in the Wolverines’ 56-36 win over the RedHawks in the Class 4A Thornwood Sectional.
Marist got within 11 twice in the third. “When we got it to 11, everyone was like, ‘We
can do this,’” Maurice Commander said. “But they matched our runs. Give them credit.” Commander and sophomore Chase Robinson shared team-high scoring honors for Marist with nine points each. Brown, who now moves on to analyzing college offers from Chicago State, Lindenwood, Northern Michigan, Quincy and Lewis was held to four points and six boards. Simeon, attempting to emerge from the sectional for the third straight season and seventh in the last eight, was led by Evan Gilyard’s 13 points. The Wolverines, winners of six state titles since 2006 and third-place finishers last year, will meet the winner of Wednesday’s semifinal between Brother Rice (25-5) and Thornton (22-5) on Friday, with the winner advancing to the March 14 Illinois State Supersectional. For the RedHawks, it’s wait ’til next year — which looks promising, given they’ll return Commander, the East Suburban Catholic Player of the Year, along with second-leading scorer Morgan Taylor. Also back will be David Daniels, who, at 6-4, will be the tallest returning starter, and Robinson, who got quality minutes all year and stepped into the starting lineup when Taylor missed four weeks with a broken wrist. “We lose two big pieces of our team,” Commander said. “But we’ll still have tough guards with me, Morgan and Chase. I feel good about next year.”
2
Section 2 Thursday, March 9, 2017
The Regional News - The Reporter
CHICAGO FIRE ANALYSIS
Fire makes a point before Toyota Park opener By Jeff Vorva Sports Editor
Sure, the Fire wheeled and dealed during the offseason to bring some offensive firepower to a team that has struggled in recent years to score goals. Nemanja Nikolic, Juninho and Dax McCarty are expected to bring some scoring savvy to a team that averaged 1.1 goals per game in Major League Soccer matches the past two years. But on Saturday, it was good ol’ David Accam who was the lone Fire player to score and to avoid bringing the team home pointless. Instead, his goal at the 73-minute mark gave Chicago a 1-1 tie against Columbus in the season opener at MAPFRE Stadium. The Fire picked up a point with the tie and its aggressive play in the second half gives the team some steam as it hosts Real Salt Lake at 1 p.m. Saturday at Toyota Park. Accam led the Fire with 10 goals in 2015 and nine in 2016, which isn’t a lot in the MSL for
a team leader. The top five goal scorers had 16 or more in 2016, with Bradley Wright-Phillips of the New York Red Bulls leading the league with 24. Accam, who has had injury problems the past two seasons, could become a huge scorer if he stays healthy. Saturday’s game was a good start. “It feels great,” Accam said of his goal. “For me, my confidence is going higher and higher. I am happy to get on the score sheet in the first match of the season.” Fire coach Veljko Paunovic didn’t see a lot of spark from his team early as the Fire was down 1-0 after Ethan Finlay’s goal at the 17-minute mark. So the second-year coach called an audible from the sideline. “Thirty minutes into the first half we switched to 4-3-3 and that helped us to spread a little bit more in the midfield line, so David Accam could be closer to Brandon Vincent and help him to cover Harrison Afful, because he was obviously very dangerous in the first half,’’ the
Photo by Jeff Vorva
Fire coach Veljko Paunovic waves goodbye to the Toyota Park crowd on Oct. 16, but he and his team will be back on Saturday to wave hello and open the 2017 MLS home season against Real Salt Lake.
coach said. “And then we also dropped Dax McCarty to help out in the defense and cover Federico Higuain better. And then (we received) a huge, huge
REAL SALT LAKE AT FIRE
2017 FIRE ROSTER
WHEN: 1 p.m., Saturday WHERE: Toyota Park, Bridgeview FIRE RECORD: 0-0-1 REAL SALT LAKE RECORD: 0-0-1 NOTEWORTHY: Salt Lake, which was 12-12-10 last year, tied defending Eastern Conference champion Toronto, 0-0 on Saturday in a game that featured seven yellow cards including three on RSL.
Fire players (with their numbers in parenthesis): Goalkeepers: Jorge Bava (1), Stefan Cleveland (30), Matt Lampson (28) Defenders: Jonathan Campbell (16), Matej Dekovic (33), Patrick Doody (22), Michael Harrington (31), Johan Kappelhof (4), Joao Meira (66), Brandon Vincent (3) Midfielders: David Accam (11), Arturo Alvarez (12), Brandt Bronico (13), Drew Conner (18), Collin Fernandez (17), John Goossens (7), Daniel Johnson (20), Juninho (19), Dax McCarty (6), Djordje Mihailovic (14), Matt Polster (2) Forwards: David Arshakyan (10), Joey Calistri (15), Michael de Leeuw (8), Nemanja Nikolic (23), Luis Solignac (9)
commitment from the guys. It’s all up to them. “Whatever we, the coaches, imagined or whatever we want to do, whatever is the plan, it’s about the player so I think (it was a) fantastic reaction. I’m proud of our players and our comeback was great.” The home crowd could see a new goalie in the net as 35-yearold Jorge Bova will likely get the nod over Matt Lampson. Sean Johnson and Lampson were the goalies last year and Johnson was traded during the offseason in a three-team deal after spending seven years with
From fishing to mushroom picking — read it here
FOCUS ON AREA COLLEGES
Cyclones one hurdle away from nationals By Jeff Vorva Sports Editor
The dream is still alive. The punishment didn’t change things one bit. Moraine Valley Community College’s women’s basketball team has been dreaming of making it to the National Junior College Athletic Association national tournament since the season opened and had been winning game after game during the regular season to try to get a high seed in the Region IV Tournament to help fulfill that dream. But in late February, the NJCAA took away 14 victories from the Cyclone for using ineligible players — a charge that MVCC officials said came from a lack of paperwork — and the Cyclones were seeded sixth in the eight-team Region IV Tournament. But the Cyclones (16-16 officially but 30-2 minus the penalty) got to where they needed to be — in the Regional IV championship. They challenge top-seeded Illinois Valley (21-9) at 2:30 p.m. at Waubonsee Community College in Sugar Grove. The winner goes to the national tournament in Harrison, Ark., March 21-25. The Cyclones reached the Region IV title game by whipping second-seeded Morton, 87-64, in the semifinals Saturday at Waubonsee. Michelle Borgren, who last week was named Region IV Player of the Year, scored 28 points. For the past two seasons Borgren and Ever-
green Park native and Mother McAuley graduate Erin Drynan have been tag-teaming to power past opponents. As the competition gets stronger, the Cyclones might need a third scorer and sophomore Krista Brill has scored 30 points in two postseason games for the Cyclones. Illinois Valley opened the playoffs with an impressive 12239 victory over Olive Harvey but barely beat sub-.500 South Suburban, 78-75, in the semis. Men’s basketball: The Cyclones ended their season on a heartbreaking note, losing to South Suburban, 63-61, Sunday in the Region IV semifinals at Waubonsee Community College. Joe Ruzevich and Nick Sims each had 15 points for Moraine. The Cyclones finished 1715 in coach Anthony Amarino’s first season.
St. Xavier University Football: The schedule for the 2017 season was released and the planned matchup with Western Illinois University fell through. The Cougars replaced the Leathernecks with an Aug. 31 season opener against 2015 NAIA National Champion Marian University at Deaton Field. “We were all very disappointed when the game against Western Illinois University fell through a couple of weeks ago, but I immediately called Marian University because I was pretty sure they were still open in week one,” said coach Mike Feminis. “With Saint Xavier celebrating its 25th year of the
H
owdy! By way of introduction, I’m an outdoors writer and have been for the past 32 years, writing for several publications. The subjects covered range from fishing, hunting boating, camping, bird watching, mushroom picking… you get the idea! I’m a longtime resident OUTDOORS of Palos Park and subscriber to The Regional WITH News. From time to time, my outdoors column will appear in this publication. Let’s get rolling:
JIM KIRBY
Outdoor Calendar Photo by Jeff Vorva
Moraine Valley guard Diamond Dortch and her teammates take on Illinois Valley on Saturday in Sugar Grove for a bid to the NJCAA national tournament.
football program, things could not have worked out any better. We now have six home games and the last two NAIA national champions (Marian and Saint Francis-Ind.) on our 2017 schedule.’’ Softball: Senior Callie Brown pitched a perfect game in a 9-0 five-inning victory over Fisher College Sunday at the PFX Spring Games in Clermont, Fla. She had 10 strikeouts in the game to help the Cougars, ranked second in the country, even their record at 3-3. Men’s bowling: The team signed five bowlers, including Stagg’s Sean Murray and Brother Rice’s Jacob Davies. Murray is the first bowler from Stagg to advance to state competition when he qualified in 2016, as he finished 40th in the Illinois High School Association state tournament. Davies, from Oak Lawn, rolled a 300 game as a sopho-
more, a 297 in regional play as a junior and averaged 191 his senior season. John Studer and Ryan Koesema (Minooka High School) and Josh Boger (an Oak Forest senior who finished third in the state this season) also signed.
Trinity Christian College Women’s track: Ashley Jourdan finished sixth in the 1000-meter run at the NAIA Indoor Track and Field Championships in Johnson City, Tenn. She posted a personal-best time of 2 minutes, 58.10 seconds. Women’s basketball: The Trolls dropped a 64-42 decision to Greenville College in the National Christian College Athletic Association North Central Region Tournament to finish their season at 16-16 in Bill DeRuiter’s first season, one year after posting a rough 3-26 mark. Lauren Stokes had 13 points and eight steals in the setback.
FOCUS ON HIGH SCHOOL AND COMMUNITY SPORTS
Area sixth-grade volleyball teams are red hot The St. Michael sixth-grade girls volleyball teams won the Marist High School 2017 Valentine’s Volleyball Tournament on Feb. 19. More than 20 sixth-grade teams participated in the tournament. Elise Ward, Katy Cupp, Emilia Batus, Megan Flynn, Sophia Davidson, Angie Domagala and Maeve Parker are members of the team. The Our Lady of the Ridge sixth-grade team won the St. Alexander Volleyball Double-A League at Palos Courts. Members of the team are Nora Aldworth, Alexis Espinoza, Viviana Garcia, Mairead Greene, Abby Hickman, Summer Oakes, Kyra Olejniczak, Madeline Zenner and Cory Zamlynski. Doreen Hickman is the head coach and Wrayanne Kolarik is the assistant coach.
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
the Fire. Bova made three saves in the Columbus game. McCarty and Nikolic didn’t score and Juninho was suspended for a game for receiving a red card on Nov 26 with Club Tijuana. “We only learned of this
situation midweek,” said Fire general manager Nelson Rodríguez. “We petitioned the Mexican Federation through U.S. Soccer, but we were denied. While disappointing, we remain confident in our roster and look forward to Juninho’s debut at Toyota Park.” McCarty is happy with his team’s ability to score a point on the road before heading home. “There is a lot of potential on this team,’’ he said. “I still think we have a long way to go, for sure. We’re a project. Obviously we were missing a very important player in Juninho. I thought John Goossens stepped in the middle of the field and played really well, had a couple of good chances, probably could’ve scored a goal. I thought for the most part we grew into the game. It was a tough first half but the second half we showed more of our potential. We were dangerous. “We have to get Toyota Park back to being a fortress. We have to make sure teams are scared to come play us there.’’
Currently through April 30: Smelt season opens. Thursday: Spring turkey permits, fourth lottery are available. Sunday: Daylight Savings Time begins. Wednesday: Last day to call wild turkey while in the field until the day before turkey season, south zone and LaSalle cooling lake opens to fishing. March 18: Spring trout fly fishing opens (catch-and-release only).
Fishing Report The south end of Lake Michigan is shallow and warms up early, generally bringing in a run of spring Coho salmon. We had a break in the weather last week with southwest winds and waves one foot or less, so Al Sorenson of Palos Park and I teamed up with Jon Mineiko of Homer Glen to try for salmon. We launched out of Hammond on Mineiko’s 19-foot Lund boat. As soon as we cleared the harbor we set the lines on down-riggers, Dipsey Divers, flat lines and yellow birds, with a smorgasbord of dodgers and flies, spoons, rattle-traps and other body baits. It was a great day to be on the water, but after six hours trolling the Inland shipping canal and the Inland wall we landed only two salmon. The reason was because the water temperature was only 38 degrees. The expected big run did not occur because we need the water temp to be near 40 degrees. Maybe next week… Crappies are hitting on most of the Cook County Forest Preserve Lakes, particularly, Maple, Tampier and Saganashkee. Light tackle is needed in the shallows around brush piles and stumps.
Harvest numbers down Hunters in Illinois harvested 144,150 deer during the 2016-17 season. The total deer harvest for all season compares with a total harvest of all seasons of 155,229 deer in 2015-16. During this year’s deer season, hunters took 44 percent does and 56 percent males.
Beware of starry stonewort An aquatic weed is creeping across the Great Lakes region that grows really fast and is very hard to kill. Starry stonewort, which forms dense surface mats in lakes, first turned up in North America in 1978 in the St. Lawrence River in New York. Researchers think it probably arrived in ballast water from ships entering the Great Lakes. It wasn’t a big concern for about 30 years, but then it took off. Now it’s widespread on Michigan’s Lower Peninsula, where it has infected more than 200 inland lakes. It was found in Wisconsin, Minnesota and has also reached some lakes in Indiana. It’s difficult to kill with herbicides because it doesn’t have a vascular system that could carry the poison to the entire plant, according to the Great Lakes Basin Report.
Scouts sharp about knife safety St. Michael’s sixth-grade volleyball team won a tournament at Marist.
Supplied photos
Nov. 3.
ALL IN hosts tryouts. ALL IN Southwest will host tryouts for its spring travel season. The first tryout is Sunday March 12 at the Swanson Center, 6652 S. 78th Ave. in Bedford Park. Sixth-through-eighth graders tryout t from noon to 1 p.m., ninth and 10th graders try out from 1 to 2 p.m. and 11th and 12th graders from 2-3 p.m. The second date is Monday at the Frontier Field House, 9807 Sayre Ave. in Chicago Ridge. Sixth-through eighth graders try out from 6 to 7 p.m., ninth and 10th graders from 7 to 8 p.m. and 11th and 12th graders from 8 to 9 p.m. For more information visit wwwaiathletics.com
Shooters host tryouts The South Side Shooters girls third-
I had the pleasure of talking to St. Alexander Cub Scout Den No. 5 and parents about knives, including history of knives, safety, a few personal incidents, sharpening and the many types and uses. At the completion of my talk, the scouts did some soap carvings using knives with their names engraved on the blades, given to each member of the den by Scoutmaster George Maderas. It was a nice touch, George.
Spring trout fishing opens April 1
Our Lady of the Ridge’s sixth-grade volleyball team won the St. Alexander League.
through 11th-grade tryouts are March 9 from 7 to 9 p.m. at Moraine Valley Community College, Building G. For more information, contact Gary Ferguson at 630-935-1150 or visit www.shootersbball.com. — We welcome community news at sports@regionalpublishing.com
The 2017 Illinois Spring Trout Fishing Season opens on April 1 at 52 ponds, lakes and streams throughout the state. A new location for spring trout fishing this year is Horsetail Lake in Palos Park, a part of the Cook County Forest Preserve District. The Illinois Department of Natural Resources stocks more than 80,000 rainbow trout each year in bodies of water where trout fishing is permitted during the spring season, and an additional 80,000 trout for the fall trout season. All anglers must have a fishing license and an Inland Trout Stamp, unless they are under the age of 16, blind or disabled, or if they are an Illinois resident on leave from active duty in the armed forces. The daily catch limit for each angler is five trout.
Think about it
It’s a crime to catch fish in some lakes and a miracle in some others. Jim Kirby’s future columns will appear the first Thursday of each month. E-mail him at kirbyoutdoors@sbcglobal.net.
The Regional News - The Reporter
Thursday, March 9, 2017 Section 2
3
4A forces: Two area teams reign in regionals Marist in Command most of this game
By Phil Arvia Correspondent
Photos by Jeff Vorva
Brother Rice senior Josh Niego gets a taste of the net after his team won its first regional title since 2009.
Brother Rice gets a taste of title at H-F By Jeff Vorva Sports Editor
After Brother Rice won its first regional title since 2008, senior Josh Niego climbed the ladder under the west basket in the Homewood-Flossmoor gym and was the first to cut the net down. After snipping some of the twine, he put it in his mouth. So, what did it taste like? Chicken? Rice? “It tasted delicious — it tasted like victory,” he said. Niego probably deserved steak or lobster after he and his second-seeded Crusader teammates beat seventh-seeded Homewood-Flossmoor, 57-50, Friday night in the H-F Class 4A Regional title game. Brother Rice (25-5) was scheduled to face third-seeded Thornton (225) in the Thornwood Sectional semifinal on Wednesday. The 6-foot-4 senior Niego, who is still in the process of deciding a college to attend next season, scored 15 points in the final quarter Friday to help the Crusaders advance. He finished with 27 points, and while some of them were tough, driving baskets, a few of them were a little lucky. His first 3-pointer of the game was a bank shot and it gave him a school-record 44th straight game with a trey. After the Crusaders and Vikings were knotted at 39 after three quarters, Niego took a shot inside early in the fourth while being fouled. The ball rolled into the basket, and he was awarded a free throw — which prompted him to scream to the crowd with joy. “The ball just slipped off my hand and spun in and it went straight in,” he said. “Sometimes you get lucky.’’ Even though a second seed beating a seventh seed on pa-
Crusaders players show off their regional title hardware to the crowd after beating Homewood-Flossmoor on Friday night.
CRUSADER REGIONAL TITLES Year 1994 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2008 2017
Coach Pat Richardson Pat Richardson Pat Richardson Pat Richardson Pat Richardson Pat Richardson Pat Richardson Pat Richardson Pat Richardson Pat Richardson Pat Richardson Bobby Frasor
per doesn’t sound like much, this was a dangerous game for the Crusaders. H-F (18-12) was one of the top teams in the state early in the season before injuries and losses mounted. The Vikings were getting healthier and, combined with the homecourt advantage, there were some who speculated an upset was in order. But Niego had other plans.
“I wasn’t going to lose this game,” he said. “I wanted the ball. We heard people saying they could beat us and we didn’t want that to happen.’’ Mike Shepski added 13 points for Brother Rice. Second-year coach Bobby Frasor, a former star player for the Crusaders, said that regional titles were commonplace years ago and he wasn’t used to long gaps without them. “It’s been eight years between titles,” he said. “I have to credit the seniors — Mike and Josh — for this. They have been through a lot. They came to Brother Rice thinking they were going to play for coach (Pat) Richardson and went through a couple of different coaches. They have seen the history and tradition of the program and they wanted to be a part of it. “It means so much to them. They etched their names in the record books and they will stay there for years and years to come. They are unbelievable senior leaders and they are just a joy to coach.’’
At times, Marist’s dissection of T.F. North’s full-court defensive pressure in an 89-66, T.F. South Regional championship win Friday looked easy. It looked easy as Maurice Commander hit his first nine field-goal attempts on the way to a game-high 32 points. It looked easy as Justin Brown made his last nine — nearly all of them dunks — on his way to 18. It looked really easy when the RedHawks were pushing the pace of play and slashing in for layups as their lead ballooned to 33 points in the late going. “It wasn’t easy,” Commander said. “But it felt like it was.” It felt like it because Marist’s starting five ran full-court scrimmages in practice last Photos by Jeff Vorva week against a team of eight Marist’s Maurice Commander had a career-high 32 points against T.F. North reserves. Friday night to help the RedHawks win the Class 4A T.F. South Regional. “When we came out five-onfive, it was like second nature,” Commander said. Marist coach Gene Nolan has used the tactic before in his 17 seasons at the helm, but not this year. “We had to do it,” he said. “There’s no way we can simulate what T.F. North does fiveon-five. Five-on-eight was the closest we could come.” The results were Marist’s first regional title since 2012 and a balanced effort, despite Commander’s gaudy numbers. His career high came on just 16 field-goal attempts — he made 12 — while the RedHawks shot 60 percent (33-of-55) as a team. Brown’s 18 came on 9-of-12 Marist’s Morgan Taylor goes up for a shot against T.F. North on Friday. shooting, and he added eight rebounds. “Just a heat check,” Com“It’s that extra pass thing,” REDHAWK mander said. “I felt pretty good Brown said. “One of our core REGIONAL TITLES taking it, but I was probably a values is unselfishness. Maulittle far out.” rice is a pass-first point guard Year Coach Commander’s teammates — this was his first 30. Ed Molitor required no such “heat check.” “I’m not shocked by it. I 1971 Ed Molitor They came out fired up. know he’s capable of scoring 1976 1981 Paul Swanson “Everyone was together like that. Together, I feel like Ken Styler from jump,” Commander said. we can play with anybody in 1996 1997 Ken Styler “That’s what I’m proud of.” the state.” Gene Nolan The fifth-seeded RedHawks 2004 Morgan Taylor (14 points), Gene Nolan (27-3) advanced to Tuesday’s 2005 David Daniels (13) and, off Thornwood Sectional op- 2007 Gene Nolan the bench, Robinson (10) also posite No. 1 Simeon (26-3), 2012 Gene Nolan reached double figures for a 56-43 winner over Marian 2017 Gene Nolan Marist. Catholic in the Eisenhower “We always make the extra Regional title game. The because of him. He was every- pass,” Daniels said. “The sky’s fourth-seeded Meteors, led by thing we needed him to be to- the limit when we play togethTerrell Porter’s 15 points, fin- night.” er.” ished 23-4. Commander added Marist’s The idea was to play fast — North last led at 16-15 with first bucket of the third quarter on offense. just under a minute to play in and stole the ensuing inbounds “When we could run, we the first quarter. Marist was up pass for another quick deuce wanted to do that,” Nolan said. 19-16 at the end of the period on before finally, at the 6:27 mark “More importantly, we were a pair of Chase Robinson free of the period, missing a field- able to create patience defenthrows and a Commander put- goal attempt. Incredibly, the sively. back. junior point guard fired up an “Getting them to have long Commander had 17 points on air ball on a deep 3-point at- possessions, that was the key to 7-of-7 shooting in the first half tempt. the game for us.” as the RedHawks got out to a 40-29 lead. “He’s had a lot of great games for us,” Nolan said of the East Suburban Catholic Player of the Year, “but this was the best game of his career. “The pace of the game offensively was the way it was
IHSA 3-POINT SHOOTOUTS
O’Malley, Schied miss final-four cutoff By Jeff Vorva Sports Editor
Mother McAuley’s Tara O’Malley and Marist’s Stefanie Schied had strong performances in the Illinois High School Association’s 3-point Queen of the Hill showdown, but the two local junior long-range bombers were not able to make it to the final four in Class 4A. O’Malley hit eight baskets in 15 attempts and missed the cutoff for
the final spot by one Thursday at Redbird Arena on the campus of Illinois State University in Normal. Schied scored seven baskets. Kelsey Nallon of Rolling Meadows and Jordyn Hughes of Warren each had 11, Olivia Jenkins of Plainfield East added 10 and Hampshire’s Rachel Dumoulin had to win a shootout to secure the fourth spot. The next night, Dumoulin was the 4A champion with 11 baskets. Class 3A champion Maggie
AREA BOYS HOOPS AT A GLANCE
W-L Streak Next
Brother Rice Chi. Christian Evergreen Pk Marist Oak Lawn Richards St. Laurence Sandburg Shepard Stagg
25-5 20-8 18-10 27-4 11-18 13-15 13-16 13-14 13-15 18-9
W3 L1 L1 L1 L1 L1 L1 L5 L1 L1
4A Sectionals* Season over Season over Season over Season over Season over Season over Season over Season over Season over
* Records through Tuesday, March 7; Brother Rice was scheduled to play Thornton on Wendesday in the Thornwood Sectional semifinal. — Compiled by Jeff Vorva
Bair of Glenbard South won the overall Queen of the Hill championhip as she popped in 10 baskets on Saturday. Class 1A champ Kassity Walters was second with seven, Dumoulin had six and Classs 2A champ Madisyn Fischer had five. No one from the area qualified for Class 3A but in Class 2A on Feb. 23, Cheyenne Slager scored seven in the preliminary round and missed the final four cutoff by two.
Vorva
Continued from Page 1 the first two rounds of the Chicagoland Collegiate Athletic Conference Tournament before drilling the previous top-ranked team in the nation, the University of St. Francis, 88-64, Feb. 28 in Joliet in the tournament championship. The Saints were 31-0 and had beaten SXU 80-70 on Jan. 7 at the Shannon Center in Chicago, so this was a huge swing. The Cougars scored 50 points against the Saints in the second half and shot 61 percent in the final 20 minutes. Junior Kara Krolicki scored 22 points and junior Brittany Collins added 20 points and 12 rebounds. It was a great week all
around for the program. Krolicki was named the CCAC Player of the Year. Krolicki also was named to the five-player all-conference team, along with senior Mikayla Leyden. Collins made the second team. Maddie Welter was named the Freshman of the Year. I’m excited about the Cougars’ chances of winning the national championship, but you never know. There might be a team in the 32team field that may not have a spectacular record or seed but played a killer schedule. There might be a team out there that had some players hurt during the season and picked up some losses but is at full strength now. There might a team out there that just plain and simple gets
Five area boys shooters are alive after regional play for the King of the Hill competition. St. Laurence’s Tom Falvey and Jayden Robinson advanced to sectionals in Class 3A along with Evergreen Park’s Declan Smith, who threw in 13 baskets in 15 attempts on Friday. In Class 4A, Shepard’s Jack Cody and Marist’s Malik Onyeali were survivors in regional play. No one from the area qualified for state in Class 2A. red hot at the right time and plays above its head for five games. And, oh, gosh, there just might be a team like Goshen, which got hot in the second round against the No. 2-ranked Cougars last year and won 84-66 even though SXU beat that team, 82-69, at the SXU Christmas Classic the previous December. Maybe St. Francis and SXU will meet a third time… So who knows how this is all going to play out. That’s the fun of sports. Let’s just enjoy the games and hope for the best. And let’s hope I can get that Beach Boys song out of my head and replace it with… perhaps a Queen song that has something to do with champions.
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 9, 2017
The Regional News - The Reporter
Images from a hot week of regional basketball
Brother Rice’s Brendan Coghlan (left photo) lost his left shoe in the middle of the fourth quarter of his team’s regional win over Homewood-Flossmoor. He had to participate in a few plays without it (above).
Photos by Jeff Vorva
Not all regional games are created equal. The above photo shows a large section of unused bleachers for a Monday night (Feb. 27) at the beginning of a preliminary game between Shepard and host Eisenhower. The photo at right shows a small section of a packed house at Homewood-Flossmoor on Friday night for the regional title as Brother Rice students celebrate during the fourth quarter.
Shepard’s Marquel Porter hits a 3-pointer in a first-round Dan Smith of Evergreen Park tries to race around Morgan Park’s Ayo Dosunmu in EP’s regional semifinal victory over Eisenhower on Feb. 27. He scored eight of loss in Class 3A on March 1. the Astros’ first 12 points in the win.
Marist’s Morgan Taylor is in danger of injuring his neck as he and Thornton Fractional North players watch to see if his shot drops in Marist’s Class 4A regional championship victory on Friday night.
Freshman Ahron Ulis, the brother of NBA player Tyler Ulis, listens as Marian coach Mike Taylor addresses his team during a game against Stagg on March 1.
Stagg’s Josh Blim (left) is being followed step-by-step by Marian Catholic’s Sean Taylor in Marian’s win over the Chargers on March 1 in the Class 4A semifinals.
The Regional News - The Reporter
448-6161
448-4000
For Sale
SEARCHING California style ranch on FOR wooded LUXURY LIVING?
ORLAND PARK RESIDENTIALÂ LOT
.8+ acre across fromOverlooking Forest You’ll find it here! the lake, Preserves6awaits talents! offering bdrmsyour (3 on main4level), 5-1/2 baths, bdrms, 3 baths, 35x25 walk-out bsmt walkout designed for entertaining w/ full service kitchen, hot “As tubIs� room, stage, bsmt w/office. Being sold 4x9 viewing screen, 4+ car garage, & more! $319,900 $1,795,000
5 ACRES
(.47 acre)
RT. 45 IN PEOTONE
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
600 ft. frontage x 400 ft. deep
Save this ad for a FREE Market Analysis!
34
A Palos resident since 1963
708.448.6100
BHHSBlount.com Serving the Palos area for over 50 years
40 ft. x 60 ft. pole barn
Your Palos Realtor
708-369-9327
“Follows Me Everywhere!�
CALL 815-450-0004
Advertise your business in the service directory! Call today 448-4000 or 448-6161
ÂŽ
“10 in the Park�
HAVE A HOUSE FOR SALE? CALL TO PLACE YOUR AD TODAY! 448-4000 OR 448-6161
NEW as of 7/7/11
PUBLISHER’S NOTICE
T:3.75�
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.
RELEASED TO VENDOR
T:3.5�
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT - CHANCERY DIVISION DEUTSCHE BANK NATIONAL TRUST COMPANY, AS TRUSTEE FOR ARGENT SECURITIES INC., ASSET BACKED PASS-THROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2005-W4 Plaintiff, -v.NANCY DIAZ, PONCIANO ALVARADO, ARGENT MORTGAGE COMPANY, LLC, UNKNOWN OWNERS AND NON-RECORD CLAIMANTS Defendants 15 CH 05896 9135 S. 87TH AVE Hickory Hills, IL 60457 NOTICE OF SALE PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above cause on June 21, 2016, an agent for The Judicial Sales Corporation, will at 10:30 AM on March 22, 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 9135 S. 87TH AVE, Hickory Hills, IL 60457 Property Index No. 23-02-312-004-0000. The real estate is improved with a single family residence. The judgment amount was $345,061.30. 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, contact Plaintiff’s attorney: POTESTIVO & ASSOCIATES, P.C., 223 WEST JACKSON BLVD, STE 610, Chicago, IL 60606, (312) 263-0003 Please refer to file number C14-12785. 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. POTESTIVO & ASSOCIATES, P.C. 223 WEST JACKSON BLVD, STE 610 Chicago, IL 60606 (312) 263-0003 E-Mail: ilpleadings@potestivolaw.com Attorney File No. C14-12785 Attorney Code. 43932 Case Number: 15 CH 05896 TJSC#: 37-1601 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. I715428
POTENTIAL TO BECOME SPECTACULAR!
For Sale
ď “ď ď –ď …ď€ ď ď€ ď Œď ‰ď †ď …ď€Žď€ ď „ď ?ď Žďƒ•ď ”ď€ ď „ď ’ď ‰ď –ď …ď€ ď ˆď ?ď ?ď …ď€ ď ‚ď •ď šď šď …ď „ď€Ž ď ‚ď •ď šď šď …ď „ď€ ď „ď ’ď ‰ď –ď ‰ď Žď ‡ď€ ď ‰ď “ď€ ď „ď ’ď •ď Žď ‹ď€ ď „ď ’ď ‰ď –ď ‰ď Žď ‡ď€Ž
Job # ZBOPUB1-10-03963
022
Version # 1
Job Description Small Space Newspaper - You Saved My Life - Liz Bleed None Trim 3.75� x 3.5� Live 3.25� x 3�
Mech Scale None
Copy Writer Mietelski
Print Scale 100%
Proj Mgr Ingram
Stock None
Acct Svc None Prod Mgr Curtis
Finishing None
Art Buyer None
Colors Spec’d None
Copy Edit None
Special Instr. None
Mac Sforza
CHOOSE CAR SEAT: BY AGE & SIZE
THE ONES
WHO ACTUALLY DO. THE NUMBER OF PEOPLE
WHO THINK THEY HAVE THEIR CHILD IN THE RIGHT SEAT.
KNOW FOR SURE
IF YOUR CHILD IS IN THE RIGHT CAR SEAT.
ZBOPUB1-10-03963-022_small_YouSaved-LIz_BWN.indd Linked Graphics
Art Director Ancevic
Folded Size None
Publications Newspaper
VISIT SAFERCAR.GOV/THERIGHTSEAT
Document Name
A-4O2F0896_V2.psd AClogo_wht.eps USDOTwhite.ai
Last Modified Colors In-Use
RGB
User ma-jsforza2 (3)
702 ppi
9-28-2010 3:57 PM
Printer 9s-exp260 titan
Mechd By: TBD
Output Date 9-28-2010 3:57 PM
RTVd By: None
Black
CONTENT
For Sale
CD/ACD
COPYWRITER
AD
ACCT SERVICE
PROD
COPY EDIT
BY SIGNING YOUR INITIALS ABOVE, YOU ARE STATING THAT YOU HAVE READ AND APPRO VED THIS WORK.
9-28-2010 3:57 PM
Vendor: Williams Release Date: 9/28/10
5
Thursday, March 9, 2017 Section 2
6
Section 2 Thursday, March 9, 2017
448-6161
The Regional News - The Reporter
Help Wanted
Wanted
SNOWBLOWERS,
small engines, regular and riding lawnmowers, bicycles. Reasonably priced or free. Call (815) 450-0004
448-4000
Advertise in the classifieds! Call today 448-4000
448-6161
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
Cleaning Services
(312) 437-3969 Landscaping
NEED LAWN SERVICES?
Plumbing & Sewer
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
Depend on an accredited company with the qualifications, resources, and professional management that has been getting the job done right for nearly 30 years
Prompt and Reliable Customer Service
Snowblower Repair
Snow Blowers Lawn Mowers Repair/Tune-Up
No Hidden Costs or Fees
Will fix at your house
Certified • Fully Insured Licensed • Bonded
Reasonable Rates
Clean-out Services www.threebrotherslandscaping.net
Stan’s Hauling
Garages • Decks Additions • Oak Floors
Commercial & Residential Maintenance Experts
Removal of all unwanted items. From homes, offices, storage areas, garages, apartments, condos, etc. 7 days 773-206-9309 www.stanscleanout.com
448-4000
(708)-687-8091
Call: (815) 450-0004
Plumbing & Sewer
Tree Service 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 Remodeling
DumpsterNP_5_6875x7.indd 1
5/6/11 2:21 PM
FATHER & DAUGHTERS REMODELING 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
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 Open Monday-Friday 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
Senior Discount Veteran Discount Licensed & Bonded
Your Guide to Arts and Events in the Southwest Suburbs and Beyond
OUT & ABOUT
The Regional News • The Reporter
Thursday, March 9, 2017
WOLFGANG PUCK’S KITCHEN
O&A MOVIE REVIEW
Jackman’s finale as Wolverine/Logan is fitting end to ‘X-Men’ film saga
Dreamstime.com
Use a combination of eggs and egg whites to make a healthy omelet.
Prepare a Spanish-style omelet anytime for a satisfying meal By Wolfgang Puck I’ve recognized an interesting pattern from the questions and recipe requests I’m always getting. With all the different food options and occasions for eating that each week brings, most people are concerned about cooking for two main types of meals: weekend brunches and weeknight suppers. As you might guess, the styles of recipes they want for those two occasions tend to be very different. On a weekend morning, most home cooks want to prepare something that feels generous, even a little bit indulgent; a recipe that will impress everyone gathered around the table, helping to make brunch a special yet relaxed occasion. Weeknight meals, on the other hand, are almost always more about convenience, answering one main challenge: How do you satisfy yourself and your family quickly and easily while providing a main course that tastes fresh and delicious? I know of one great recipe that fulfills the requirements of both: my interpretation of a Spanish omelet. Brunch guests happily greet a thick, pancake-style flat omelet, served cut into wedges, which makes a great impression whether you offer it hot from the oven or even lukewarm or cold on a buffet. And egg dishes are becoming more and more popular on weeknights, a time when the concept of serving breakfast for supper is not only convenient but also wonderfully comforting. My recipe also offers the added benefit of being healthy. I pack the omelet with lots of fresh vegetables, cut into uniform 1/4-inch (12-mm) dice; feel free to substitute some of your own favorites, briefly sauteing them as I do in the recipe. I make the omelet with mostly egg whites, adding just a couple
of yolks for a touch of richness and golden color. (You can save leftover yolks for another recipe for two or three days in a sealable container in the refrigerator, covered with a little water to prevent them from drying out.) Because many people love cured pork with such egg dishes, I also finish off the omelet with some strips of lean ham; but, of course, you could also make a vegetarian version by substituting some sliced or crumbled chorizostyle vegetarian sausage that can be found in most well-stocked supermarkets. You might wonder how healthful such a generous-looking, richtasting main dish can be. So it might surprise you to learn that each serving totals just about 150 calories, with a little bit more than a quarter of those coming from fat. So, if you add some good whole-grain bread and a salad or fresh fruit, you’ll have a wellbalanced, satisfying and delicious meal ready with incredible ease. And what home cook doesn’t want that, whatever the time, day or occasion? HEALTHY SPANISHSTYLE OMELET WITH BELL PEPPERS AND HAM Serves 4 • Olive oil-flavored nonstick cooking spray • 1/2 cup (125 mL) diced red bell pepper • 1/2 cup (125 mL) diced yellow bell pepper • 1/2 cup (125 mL) diced green bell pepper • 1 garlic clove, finely chopped • 1/2 jalapeno chile, stemmed, seeded, deveined and finely chopped (optional) • Kosher salt • Freshly ground black pepper
• 1/2 cup (125 mL) seeded and diced tomato • 2 large cage-free eggs • 12 large cage-free egg whites • 1/4 cup (60 mL) pitted Kalamata olives, sliced • 3 ounces (185 g) thinly sliced lean cured ham, cut into thin ribbons • 6 basil leaves, cut into fine strips Preheat the oven to 400 F (200 C). Heat an 8-inch (20-cm) ovenproof nonstick skillet over medium heat. Spray with the nonstick cooking spray. Add the peppers and saute, stirring occasionally, until they have softened and their edges begin to turn golden, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and jalapeno, if using, and saute until fragrant, about 30 seconds longer. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Add the tomatoes and cook for 2 minutes longer. Put the eggs and egg whites in a large bowl. Season to taste with salt and pepper and whisk until thoroughly blended. Add the egg mixture to the skillet with the vegetables and stir constantly over medium heat until curds start to form. Continue cooking until the mixture has begun to set but is still fairly moist. Remove the skillet from the heat and scatter the olives and ham evenly over the top. Put the skillet in the oven and bake until the omelet is completely set but still slightly moist, about 5 minutes. If the eggs on top still look a little underdone for your liking, switch the oven to the broil setting, or preheat a separate broiler, and pop the pan under the broiler for 1 to 2 minutes until they are set and light golden. Set the skillet aside to let the omelet settle for about 5 minutes. Sprinkle with the basil. Cut it into wedges and serve hot, lukewarm or even cold.
OMARR’S WEEKLY ASTROLOGICAL FORECAST By Jeraldine Saunders ARIES (Mar 21-Apr. 19): Ride out the storm. Some brief disruptions may have you ready to throw in the towel but a little patience is all that’s required to achieve success. You may be in a position to take advantage of a situation in the week to come. TAURUS (Apr. 20-May 20): Listen to your heart. Strengthen an existing relationship with a loved one by letting them know how you really feel. Singles who are still seeking their significant other may reap romantic rewards by meeting new people. GEMINI (May 21-June 20): Don’t jump to conclusions. Wait until all the facts come to light before reaching a decision as the true nature of a situation may be cloudy this week. Talking things over with a trusted friend or confidant may set your mind at ease. CANCER (June 21-July 22): Do what you want to do. Think about things that make you happy and then take action to make them happen this week. Steer clear of disputes and bad-tempered people. Negative influences could rain on
your parade. LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Get going while the going is good. There’s no obstacle that you can’t conquer or problem you can’t solve as your energy and enthusiasm will be in high gear this week. Offering help to a friend in need will be effortless. VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Keep it simple. If you take too much time thinking things over you may get stuck in neutral but if you follow your instincts you’ll make quick progress. Set aside some quality time to spend with loved ones this week. LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22.): All work and no play makes for a dull week. Leave some room in the schedule for recreation and hobbies that will help to clear your mind. Romantic activities are likely to meet with better than average results. SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Remember that not everyone plays fair. Remain alert with matters involving money as someone may try to pull a fast one when you aren’t paying attention. Take the time to find value in something you may have at first thought worthless.
Southwest • Section 2, Page 7
SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Patience is a virtue. If you find someone is irritating you, count to ten or just walk away before you lose your cool. Now is the time for listening and understanding rather than engaging in petty squabbles or spats. CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Logic may fail you. A practical approach won’t be much help when a problem stems from a completely irrational situation. You may need to put your creative juices into overdrive to find a solution or just avoid the matter altogether. AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Smiles can be contagious. A positive and upbeat attitude will light up your surroundings and make you a pleasure to be around this week. Competitions will be about enjoying the game rather than who wins or loses. PISCES (Feb. 19-Mar. 20): Put the past behind you and set sights on the future. You may have made some mistakes before but wipe the slate clean. Resolve to get off to a fresh start this week. Find your comfort zone among family and close friends.
Consider this: Over the course of 17 years, Hugh Jackman has played the role of Wolverine/Logan in the “X-Men” franchise longer than any actor has played James Bond, Batman, Spider-Man or Superman. If ever there was an actor synonymous with a comic book character, Jackman is at the top of the list. He sunk his claws into the role all the way back in 2000 and gave the X-Men films their most reliably interesting and complex character. But all good things must come to an end, and Logan — as touted by Jackman — is in his farewell to the character. And, luckily for audiences, he’s given this last outing every ounce of effort he has left. The film takes place in the near future. With the exception of Logan and his aging psychic mentor Professor X (Patrick Stewart), all of the X-Men — and the vast majority of mutants — have been wiped out. But, Professor X’s faith in the future is restored when they stumble upon a young mutant girl named Laura (Dafne Keen); she is on the run from a sinister organization looking to eradicate her. Logan, facing sickness and depression, becomes an unwilling protector of the girl. The brilliant trick of this movie — co-written and directed by James Mangold — is that it is structured like a neo-Western and not a comic book movie. The DNA that makes up the plot and characters of Logan has more in common with that of Clint Eastwood’s 1992 film “Unforgiven” than that of “Batman V. Superman: Dawn of Justice” or the other X-Men pictures. The titular character is a loner who is tired of killing, but forced to do it again and again. It is worth mentioning that Mangold and 20th Century Fox have opted to go with an R rating for this movie as opposed to the usual PG-13.
BRIAN LAUGHRAN For readers who are unaware, Logan’s main superpower is the ability to summon large knife-like claws from his hands at will. In the past, filmmakers restrained from showing his enemies’ bloodshed. This time, no such restraint is found. The film takes advantage of its adult rating. It is gruesome throughout and contains hard language as well as fleeting nudity. I am not judging parents who understand this and decide to take their kids to see this film. I mention these facts because, with the exception of last year’s “Deadpool,” all of the previous X-Men movies have been rated PG-13, and the change in tone may be unknown to casual moviegoers. I enjoyed the harder, edgier take on the character and my fellow audience members seemed to enjoy it as well. The picture is not without its faults, however. The plot falls into a pattern of the heroes hiding in various locations only to have the villains find and fight them. The repetition is wearing, but thankfully broken early enough to prevent disinterest in the film’s second half. Still, considering Jackman’s strong performance and Mangold’s interesting take on this otherwise familiar material, Logan is definitely worth seeing. RATING: ABrian Laughran’s movie reviews will appear the second and fourth Thursday of every month.
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:
“JACKIE’’: With as many actresses as have played Jacqueline Kennedy, Natalie Portman makes the role her own — having earned an Oscar nomination for it — in director Pablo Lorrain’s drama about the former first lady’s life and times in the immediate aftermath of her president husband’s assassination. Few expected her to be a sort of steel magnolia, but she cemented her own legacy with the manner in which she comported herself, at least in public. Billy Crudup plays a journalist (clearly modeled on the real Theodore H. White) who interviews her, with Peter Sarsgaard as Robert F. Kennedy and John Carroll Lynch as Lyndon Johnson, but the film very obviously belongs to Portman. The script is by Noah Oppenheim, who also oversees production of NBC’s “Today.’’ DVD extras: “making-of’’ documentary; audio commentary by Portman and Lorrain; photo gallery. *** (R: AS, P, V) (Also on Blu-ray and On Demand) “MOANA’’: Making its homevideo debut on top of its Oscar nomination for best animated feature, this Disney attraction offers as its title character the daughter of a Polynesian island’s ruler (voice of Auli’l Cravalho) trying to reverse a curse that could seal the fate of her homeland. She sets sail on a mission to find the apparent solution, a very special stone, but the demigod who possesses it (voice of Dwayne Johnson) fears handing it over because of the potential trouble it could inspire. Temuera Morrison, Jemaine Clement, Nicole Scherzinger and Alan Tudyk (“Powerless’’) also are in the voice cast, and “Hamilton’’ mentor Lin-Manuel Miranda is among the creators of the film’s music. *** (PG: AS) (Also on Blu-ray and On Demand) “INCARNATE’’: Screen stories of exorcisms are nothing new, but Aaron Eckhart’s presence does much to elevate this one. The actor stars as a self-styled savior of victims of possession, the latest being a youngster portrayed by “Gotham’’ co-star David Mazouz ... and in mind-melding with the boy, the scientist played by Eckhart realizes he has a past with the demon in question. A notable, well-handled undercurrent of the story sees Eckhart’s alter ego able to reinvent himself in the psyches of others. Catalina
Sandino Moreno (“The Affair’’) and Keir O’Donnell also add to the performance caliber here. *** (PG-13: AS, P, V) “THE AMERICANS: THE COMPLETE FOURTH SEASON’’: Family strife impacts Elizabeth and Philip’s (Keri Russell, Matthew Rhys) covert missions as the much-acclaimed FX drama series continues. A major concern for the couple is their daughter Paige (Holly Taylor), who lets the true nature of their work be known to her pastor (Tim AuCoin) ...and the information then goes elsewhere. Bioweapons cause additional concerns for the spies, particularly when the inherent dangers start having direct effects on them. Noah Emmerich, Dylan Baker and Richard Thomas also star, and Margo Martindale (who has two Emmys for her work on the show) and Frank Langella re-
prise their roles. *** (Not rated: A, P, V) “STAR TREK: VOYAGER — THE COMPLETE SERIES’’: The fourth live-action series in the sci-fi franchise broke some barriers on its own, one of the most notable being in its casting of Kate Mulgrew as a starship captain. Kathryn Janeway proves as commanding — in more ways than one — as any of her male counterparts in the other shows, with a “crew’’ consisting in part of Robert Beltran, Tim Russ, Robert Picardo, Jeri Ryan (as the exotic Seven of Nine) and two cast members who would become frequent directors of series television, Robert Duncan McNeill and Roxann Dawson. Basically spun off from “Star Trek: Deep Space Nine,’’ the show boasts guest stars including Continued on page 8
Open 7 Days a Week Extended Hours
Your Body on LaVida Massage... Side effects include:
More Energy Improved Mood A Healthier You!
New t Clien l a i c e Sp
39
$
95 MINUTE 60
SESSION
(with this coupon. first time clients only.) 5009 CalSag Rd. (Route 83) Crestwood
5009 CalSag Rd. (Route 83) Crestwood • 708.385.1919 Crestwood.IL.LaVidaMassage.com
28th Annual
Spring Craft Show Sat., March 11th 9am-4pm & Sun., March 12th 10am-3pm ed
present by
135+ Crafter & Vendor booths plus raffles! Present this ad for
$1.00 OFF ANY BAKE SALE PURCHASE of $3.00 or more
ADMISSION $300 Kids 12 & under free
Ample Parking On Campus CARL SANDBURG HIGH SCHOOL 13300 S LaGrange Rd, Orland Park
Your Guide to Arts and Events in the Southwest Suburbs and Beyond
OUT & ABOUT
The Regional News • The Reporter
Thursday, March 9, 2017
Southwest • Section 2, Page 8
LIZ SMITH
Oscars 2017 — Ill met by Moonlight in La La Land By Liz Smith “EVERYTHING is funny, as long as it’s happening to somebody else,” said Will Rogers. Who could have foreseen that this would be the theme, the memory, for years to come, of Sunday night’s Oscar telecast? Before we talk The Mistake (briefly, because the postmortem has come and gone in our fastmoving media world), a few words about the show itself. I’m sure Jimmy Kimmel is a nice guy. I mean, not sure, but I know he does excellent charity work, people I admire, admire him, and generally I try to assume most people are nice. But I don’t find him funny. And four hours of his particular brand of humor got on my nerves. (In a quick read of his reviews, I might be in the minority on that.) His “irreverent” remarks after some particularly moving or emotional acceptance speech were irritating. I was not charmed by bringing the tourists in — frankly it seemed condescending. His ongoing dissing of Matt Damon — while I know it’s a joke that both men participate in — began to move toward the mean-spirited. (I think even Matt thought so, after Kimmel’s “critique” of Damon’s acting in “We Bought a Zoo.” Onstage, later, Matt said, “Oh, I actually liked that performance.”) It’s a matter of style, and Kimmel’s is not one that I cotton to, which means ... nothing. Many others find him a riot. I was also disappointed that he was the only person who mentioned the name of the current president of the United States, and went obvious in some of his other jokes that were clearly about the commander in chief. There were, all night, pointed allusions, powerful references to inclusion, bigotry, what the world needs now is love, sweet, love, etc. But everybody else stayed clear of giving the occupant of 1600 Pennsylvania Ave, the satisfaction of being called out by name. I wonder, every year, why a single host is even needed? Must we have a “topical” monologue? A revolving selection of stars — such as they are today — could certainly be employed to introduce musical numbers, presenters, etc. There would be more visual variety, for one thing. But — that’s not gonna happen. Speaking of the visuals, I found the show depressing to look at; the deep burgundy red that seemed to dominate, color wise, was rather drab and somehow made the Dolby Theater appear much smaller. It didn’t even look like an Academy Awards show until nearly the end, when the “big” awards were nigh, and those glittery beaded curtains, in the shape of Oscar, appeared. Look, the truth is, the Oscars have always been boring and too long. Some of us, of a certain age, are suffused with nostalgia for “our stars” and remember the Academy Awards as far more
AMPAS/ZUMA24.com
‘La La Land’ producer Jordan Horowitz holds up the winner card for best picture during The 89th Oscars at the Dolby Theatre. His film ‘La La Land’ had been read as the winner, but the actual winner was ‘Moonlight.’
glamorous and interesting than they were. Hindsight is 20/20 and uses a soft-focus lens. AS to the awards themselves, I was thrilled for Viola Davis, impressed by Casey Affleck’s genuinely humble and surprised manner (still on fence about his acting, but what he did was perfect for “Manchester by the Sea”), Mahershala Ali so deserving for “Moonlight,” Emma Stone — I went back to see “La La Land” and hers is a worthy win. I also came away more appreciative of the movie itself. It needs distance from the hype. I’m also glad that Mel Gibson’s gripping “Hacksaw Ridge” took a couple of awards. Not being a film editor, makeup person, composer, scenic designer, sound engineer, etc., I accept these awards at face value. This is the life’s work of the talented people involved, and they should have their reward. But let’s face it, most people watching don’t care. In fact, if the Academy pared the telecast down to 90 minutes, and concentrated only on the four acting awards, best picture, director and screenplay, I think TV viewers would be just fine, as long as there are hours of red-carpet coverage where they can watch commentators, anchors and fashion “experts” ask the stars ridiculous questions. Oh, and ONE musical number. Why couldn’t Justin Timberlake, who began the show in dazzling style, just have done a hot medley of all five nominated songs, and — as Irving Berlin lyricized — get thee behind me, Satan?
VIDEOVIEW BY JAY BOBBIN Continued from page 7 Jason Alexander, Dwayne Johnson, Joel Grey, Michael McKean and Sarah Silverman. *** (Not rated: AS, P, V) “THE EYES OF MY MOTHER’’: Parent-and-child relations definitely aren’t the norm in writerdirector Nicolas Pesce’s controversial thriller, a 2016 Sundance Film Festival entry casting Diana Agostini as the mom of the tale, an ex-surgeon who teaches certain techniques to her daughter (played in younger years by Olivia Bond). That translates into bad things for a traveling salesman (Will Brill), carrying into the young woman’s later life when she makes some new friends (Clara Wong, Flora Diaz) whose life expectancy also is given reason to be questioned. ** (R: AS, N, P, V)
COMING SOON:
“SOLACE’’ (March 14): A psychically skilled FBI consultant (Anthony Hopkins) goes up against a serial killer (Colin Farrell); Jeffrey Dean Morgan also stars. (R: AS, N, P, V) “ELLE’’ (March 14): Recent
Oscar nominee Isabelle Huppert stars in director Paul Verhoeven’s controversial drama about a vengeful assault victim. (R: AS, N, P, V) “A KIND OF MURDER’’ (March 21): An architect’s (Patrick Wilson) interest in an unsolved homicide leads him into danger; Jessica Biel also stars. (R: AS, P, V) “LION’’ (March 21): Years after being adopted by an Australian couple, a man seeks his biological family; Dev Patel and Oscar nominee 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 21): Jessica Chastain plays a lobbyist whose own past could influence her approach to a controversial issue. (R: AS, P) FAMILY-VIEWING GUIDE KEY: AS, adult situations; N, nudity; P, profanity; V, violence; GV, particularly graphic violence.
BEST PICTURE. I truly think The Golden Globes — for all the criticism of that award — does it right, in separating comedy and musical from drama. (Although sometimes they get that, absurdly wrong.) How do you competitively compare “La La Land” for all its expert charm to “Manchester by the Sea” or “Moonlight”? For that matter, how does one truly “compare” comedy performances from drama, or a performance based on classic literature to a modern screenplay? It’s just a big publicity gimmick, really. But, it’s show biz; human beings and corporate entities are competitive. Most cultures function on aspects of winning/losing. I thought “La La Land” was charming, beautifully realized. But I also found the musical, in the wake of its epic reviews, somewhat overrated. After taking it in a second time, and briefly meeting the adorable director Damien Chazelle here in New York, I was less resistant to “La La’s” appeal. I
think “Moonlight” is exquisite and powerful. (Of the nine nominated films, the only one I would have struck from the list was “Arrival,” which I found to be an epic bore. I understood, to a certain extent, the raves for “La La Land” — an unusual, intimate musical, colorful, joyful and poignant. But I was flabbergasted when the lights came up on “Arrival” — the positive notices for that one must have been written by the aliens.) AS to The Big Mistake which closed the Oscar telecast so spectacularly, I can only say the fault lies in our stars. Even as I saw Miss Dunaway and Mr. Beatty from a distance, gingerly approaching the podium, I had a sinking feeling. Alarm bells were ringing. I suppose the shock of realizing he had the wrong card was, well, a shock. But rather than making it seem as if he was deliberately trying to extend the drama, then handing it off to Miss Dunaway
— who was not amused by what she perceived as his attempt at humor — I wish Warren had just stopped, and said, “This says ‘Emma Stone.’ I don’t think Emma Stone is a best picture.” So, it would have been a little drama, a little embarrassment, no great harm done. Now, in the end, and in the scope of, well, real life, no great harm was done. “Moonlight” won, and the casts of both films behaved wonderfully — congratulating one another, handing over the Oscars, getting swiftly off or onstage, respectively. But the emotional turmoil must have been considerable, the dashed ecstasy of the “La La Land” group; the delayed, diffused, confused joy of the “Moonlight” crowd. Not to mention the agonies suffered by whoever handed Beatty the wrong card, and Faye and Warren’s distress. They were hoping to remind the current movie industry of their glorious careers
and the ground that was broken with “Bonnie and Clyde.” Now they are tropes and memes and hashtags of the cruel, unfettered social media. And while I commend “La La” producer Jordan Horowitz for instantly jumping into the onstage confusion, commandingly announcing, “This is no joke, ‘Moonlight’ is the winner, come up here!” he could have been gentler taking the correct envelope from a stunned Warren Beatty’s hand. Mr. Beatty is likely still nursing a bloody paper cut! The moral? As Joe. E. Brown said at the classic conclusion of “Some Like It Hot” — “Well, nobody’s perfect.” E-mail Liz Smith at MES3838@ aol.com.
刀椀最栀琀 䄀爀漀甀渀搀 吀栀攀 䌀漀爀渀攀爀℀ 䴀愀爀 ⴀ
䴀愀爀 ㈀
倀䔀一 䴀䤀䌀䄀夀匀 䴀伀一䐀
䴀愀爀 㤀
攀搀搀椀渀最 圀 氀礀 爀 攀 瘀 䈀攀 䔀砀瀀漀℀ 愀洀 ⴀ 㐀瀀洀
䴀愀爀 ㈀㈀
渀椀洀愀琀攀搀 伀猀挀愀爀 猀䄀 匀栀漀爀琀
䌀漀洀椀渀最 琀漀 琀栀攀 䈀䄀䌀 匀琀甀搀椀漀 吀栀攀愀琀爀攀
䘀攀爀漀挀椀漀甀猀Ⰰ 昀爀愀最椀氀攀Ⰰ 愀渀搀 昀甀渀渀礀 眀漀洀攀渀 昀爀漀洀 䤀爀椀猀栀 氀攀最攀渀搀 挀氀愀眀 琀栀攀椀爀 眀愀礀 椀渀琀漀 ㈀ 㜀 椀渀 琀栀椀猀 戀爀攀愀琀栀氀攀猀猀 猀漀甀琀栀ⴀ猀椀搀攀 瀀爀攀洀椀攀爀攀℀
䐀漀渀ᤠ琀 洀椀猀猀 琀栀攀 昀甀渀℀刀攀最椀猀琀攀爀 琀漀搀愀礀℀
猀℀ 瀀爀漀瘀℀ 洀甀猀椀挀 氀 攀猀 猀漀渀 椀洀 瀀愀 椀渀 琀 椀渀 最 ℀ 愀渀搀 洀漀爀攀℀ 匀瀀爀椀渀最 䌀氀愀猀猀攀猀 ☀ 匀甀洀洀攀爀 䌀愀洀瀀猀 愀爀攀 漀渀 猀愀氀攀 渀漀眀℀
䈀攀挀漀洀攀 愀 洀攀洀戀攀爀 愀渀搀 猀愀瘀攀 ─℀ 瘀椀猀甀愀氀 愀爀琀猀 簀 琀栀攀愀琀攀爀 簀 洀甀猀椀挀 簀 昀椀氀洀 簀 搀愀渀挀攀