Regional news 4 27 17

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

Thursday, April 27, 2017

Serving Palos, Orland and Worth townships and neighboring communities

76th Year, NO. 17 • 2 Sections

ORLAND PARK

New mayor to accept big salary But will turn down expensive pension

By Dermot Connolly

Keith Pekau will accept a $150,000 annual salary when he is installed as Orland Park’s new mayor on May 15, but will not take a costly pension that had been earmarked for outgoing chief executive Dan McLaughlin.

“I am going to accept the full salary. I will just have to go out and earn it,” said Pekau, who insists that the newly enhanced salary is not what drew him to the job.

The Village Board, allied with Mayor Dan McLaughlin, voted unanimously in October to turn the part-time mayor’s position into

a full-time position by ordinance with a $150,000 annual salary, beginning with the term starting next month.

As part of the new full-time position, the mayor is expected to take on added duties focusing on attracting economic development, which trustees said merited

raising the salary from $40,000 to $150,000.

the mayoral term could again be subject to change.

See Editorial, Page 4

Says he’ll step up to higher salary

When the change was made, trustees acknowledged that while they would like to see McLaughlin be elected to a seventh term, whoever won in April would get the full salary, at least until the next election in four years when

But since the salary and pension benefits that come with it became a campaign issue, and Pekau upset McLaughlin in April, he said he is frequently asked about his

Photo by Anthony Caciopo

Keith Pekau

See MAYOR, Page 2

Tap reserve fund again to cover Palos Park budget deficit Remaining reserve described as ‘hefty’

By Michael Gilbert Correspondent

Michael Gilbert and his father, Robert, train for the 10th Annual Southwest Half Marathon to be held May 7 in Palos Heights.

Photo by Anthony Caciopo

Regional correspondent preps for half marathon

By Anthony Caciopo Regional News Editor

Ever wanted to know what it’s like to run a half marathon?

Regional News correspondent Michael Gilbert, of Palos Hills, will lace up his running shoes May 7 to give our readers a firsthand account.

Gilbert will take on the 10th Annual Southwest Half Marathon scheduled to kick-off at 7:30 a.m. outside Palos Heights City Hall, Rt. 83 and 76th Avenue.

While Gilbert is much more accustomed to running 5K races, he already has six half marathons under his soles and he’s ready for the May 7 challenge.

Gilbert’s most recent half marathon took place in Bolingbrook this past March 19, a St. Paddy’s Day event, where he ran the course in 1:46:50.

“I basically run against the clock,” he said. “My goal (in the Southwest Half Marathon) would be to crack 1:45. I think I’ll be a few minutes off but it’s something

to shoot for.” He crossed the finish line of his first half marathon, in 2014 in Oak Brook, at 2:06.

Gilbert, 34, will have a keen eye on the weather forecast in the days before the 13.1-mile race.

“The interesting thing about this race, being held in early May, is See RUNNER, Page 2

Palos Park had to dip into its reserves to cover a budget deficit last fiscal year, and that is expected to be the case once again this year.

Village officials voted 4-0 Tuesday evening to approve the Fiscal Year 2018 budget, which projects $8.11 million in expected revenues and $8.49 million in projected expenditures for a reserve reduction of around $381,400, Village Finance Director Barb Maziarek said. Commissioner James Pavlatos was absent.

Although the 2017 Fiscal Year has not concluded, Maziarek previously stated the village would see a reserve reduction of approximately $246,000.

The expected deficit for FY 2018 is due to upcoming capital expenses budgeted in the water fund and road improvement projects, Maziarek said.

Despite having to dip into the reserve, Maziarek still projects Palos Park to have a “hefty” ending fund balance of $7.21 million.

“This is what [the reserve] is there for,” Maziarek said. “The reserve surplus is there for when

we need it.”

During a seven-minute PowerPoint presentation, Maziarek told village officials she projects a general fund with revenues of $4.49 million and expenditures of $4.42 million for the upcoming fiscal year. The general fund is the largest of Palos Park’s various funds and the one under which village salaries and benefits are included.

Revenue from property, income and sales taxes are placed in the general fund. The general fund provides the resources to sustain the daily activities of the village.

Salaries and benefits are projected to make up a majority of the village’s expenditures at 53 percent and 18 percent, respectively, Maziarek said. She estimated the village would spend around $2.34 million in salaries and another $815,780 in benefits.

“Salary and benefits for the employees are the biggest categories and expenses for the coming year,” Maziarek told the council and a handful of residents in attendance.

She added the benefits category includes the cost of health and dental insurance premiums as well as pension costs for union and non-union employees, payroll taxes and liability insurance.

The projected budget does not include any layoffs for FY 2018, See PALOS PARK, Page 2

First-time community garden a growing concern at Peace Memorial Church

By Anthony Caciopo Regional News Editor

There’s a patch of lawn on the grounds of Peace Memorial Church in Palos Park that is destined for much greater things.

The 30-foot by 80-foot plot, currently just an unassuming stretch of dirt with the grass removed, is being prepared for a community garden that will provide a harvest of fruits, vegetables and flowers for local residents who’d like to get their hands dirty.

And the invitation is open for anyone from the community to claim a planting space and exercise their green thumbs. A small fee is required for each space.

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“People don’t have to be a member of the church to be a member of the community,” said garden project volunteer Cheryl Puhr.

“We’re trying to get the word out that we have a community garden and everyone is welcome,” said fellow volunteer Cindy White.

The plantings will not be placed directly into the soil at ground level, however. Last weekend, Puhr, White and at least a dozen additional volunteers took advantage of near picture-perfect spring weather to measure, cut, drill, assemble and tote 25 raised planting beds that will be set into the ground at different levels.

Beds measuring 2-feet by 8-feet will stand approximately 36 inch-

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es above the ground while beds measuring 4-feet by 8-feet will stand approximately 24 inches above the ground. Five will be handicapped-accessible, said project coordinators. All will be filled with amended soil, ready to accept plantings. No perennials or invasive species will be allowed.

The paths between the beds will be covered with mulch.

Kathleen Krauss is a certified master gardener and a naturalist who will have an important role at the Peace Memorial Church community garden, primarily focusing on education. “(The gardners) can’t use insecticides or pesticides,” she said, “and fertilizer must be approved.”

Krauss, who received her training through the University of Illinois Extension, said “I was in nursing for over 20 years and now I’m doing what I love.”

“She’s the soil master!” called out Bruce Puhr playfully as he strode by on the way back to a work station.

Krauss acknowledged the levity and explained the difference between dirt and soil, from her perspective.

“Dirt is what happens after you play in the soil,” she said.

Photo by Anthony Caciopo Krauss said the education that Volunteers (from left) Dave Skala, Ray Kujawa and Rich Lisak, Jr. haul an will be offered to the communi- assembled, raised garden bed to a staging area at Peace Memorial Church. ty gardeners includes information Kujawa’s great-grandfather was one of 13 original congregation members, See GARDEN, Page 2 dating back to 1886. Kujawa’s great-granddaughter is now the sixth generation of the family to belong to the church.

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2 Thursday, April 27, 2017

The Regional News

Runner

Continued from Page 1

Supplied photo

Heights post office to host business open house The Palos Heights post office will host an open house from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday, May 1 as part of National Small Business Week. Business owners are invited to meet the local postmaster, have mailing and passport questions answered and learn how to advertise their business in a direct mail program offered by the U.S. Postal Service.

Coffee and cookies will be served. “Small businesses are an integral part of the national economy and the United States Postal Service wants to ensure you get the best mailing, shipping and advertising solutions,” the USPS said in a news release. Personnel who will be on hand at the open house are (from left): Lashae Kennedy, Palos Heights Postmaster Tom Culver and Susan Mason.

Mayor

Continued from Page 1 intentions regarding the salary.

“I will earn the $150,000. I never said anything different.

However, I am not vested in the pension system and I will not be taking a pension,” said Pekau. He repeated what he had said during the campaign, that if Mayor Dan McLaughlin had won a seventh term, and retired after four years, he would have seen his pension rise from just over $28,000 to more than $100,000 annually due to the increased salary in his final four years as mayor.

“That (pension hike) is wrong,” said the mayor-elect. “I consistently was told, ‘You need to give it (the higher mayoral salary) back to charity, you need to do this or that.’ One of the trustees said I should only take $40,000. (They) have the gall to ask me to take less, but would have given it McLaughlin,” said Pekau, adding that focusing on the salary issue is like “beating a dead horse.”

“It is up to me to earn that money,” said Pekau, an Air Force veteran who owns GroundsKeeper Landscape Care. He is also a partner in a consulting firm that specializes in marketing services for businesses.

Won’t have time for personal businesses “I’ve put my entire business at risk,” he said, noting that he hired someone to run his landscaping business. “My involvement in the consulting business will be minimal, too. I won’t have time.

My company will not be doing any business with the village,” he stressed.

He said the exact duties of the full-time mayor’s office have not even been determined. “Staff has asked me because they don’t know. I am going to focus a lot on economic development and focus on our processes to see how they

can be improved to save money,” Pekau said.

While the village has a balanced budget, “there is debt, which I want to bring down,” he said. “My goal is to make sure we are spending no more than what we are bringing in. We need to be fiscally responsible. Although the village only gets seven cents of every tax dollar, not long ago, it was five cents. So spending has gone up.

Economic growth not what many perceive “We haven’t grown as much as you might think. Our sales tax has increased six-tenths of one percent over the past 10 years. We may have added more businesses, but people are spending the same amount. I want to see the pie grow. Then it doesn’t matter how many businesses are in it,” he said.

Pekau believes retail stores and restaurants should be concentrated around Orland Mall, and wants to bring in other types of businesses elsewhere. “It’s a challenging environment. We need to reach out to the Will County Center for Economic Development and the Southland Chamber of Commerce. They are like matchmakers, bringing together developers and municipalities,” he said.

“I want to see other industries, STEM (science, technology, engineering, math) industries, corporate campuses, potential for incubators.

Those industries bring better jobs that can buy from our retail and restaurants and can actually afford to live in town.”

He said the current look of the downtown triangle area is nothing like the original artist’s renditions, and likewise, the mock-ups of plans for the mixed-use I-80 corridor mean little “until we see what types of businesses want to come there.”

Willing to consider video gaming Pekau said he is “ not philo-

sphically opposed to it but I am not out there campaigning for it either.”

But in order to order to support it, “it would have to be tightly controlled, with significant public hearings,” he said.

“My concern with not having it is that there are businesses within Orland Park that are being approached to move to communities that have it,” Pekau said. “I don’t know that we can afford to lose those businesses.”

New positions filled ahead of his swearing-in Pekau said the first things on his agenda as mayor will be getting involved in the budgeting process, as well as the ongoing search for a village manager. He expressed disappointment when the Village Board decided last week to name Joe La Margo the interim village manager, and Karie Friling as La Margo’s replacement as interim assistant village manager at a combined salary of $276,000. The appointments came less than a month before Pekau is to be sworn in.

But he said he believes he can find common ground with the trustees when he becomes mayor.

“All I can do as the mayor is to set my goals and set my vision, and exhibit leadership,” he said.

“But I can’t force six people to agree with me. I assume we all want the village to be a safe, prosperous community with excellent schools. I think we can start with what we agree upon.”

Pekau said his immediate plans also include finding a way to have all board meetings televised, to increase transparency. “With all the technology available, the meetings could easily be put on YouTube to make them easily accessible online, as well as on cable TV. I like the telephone town hall meetings, but we could have real town hall meetings too,” he said.

that there’s a real concern with the weather,” he said. “It could be 75 degrees or it could be 50.

That’s at the forefront of my mind, what the weather is going to be.”

Gilbert recalled running in 70-degree temperatures in a previous half marathon and finding the experience not particularly pleasant.

“I’m hoping for cooler temps for this one,” he said, preferring a range of high-40s to low-50s.

Gilbert won’t be running alone May 7. Of course, there’s already a combined total of about 1,000 participants in the half marathon and 10K race, many of whom will be running shoulder-to-shoulder with one another—including Gilbert—at least at the start of the race.

But Gilbert’s father, Robert, of Burbank, will also be out for the run.

“I graduated from Eastern Illinois University in 2004 and since I was living back at home I started to run with my dad every day.

The majority of my walking and running career has been with my dad.”

The old adage of needing to walk before one can run was especially true for Gilbert, who tipped the scales at 206 pounds at only 14 years of age.

“I had to go to a nutritionist,” he recalled. “I started walking with my dad in 1996, five times around the outdoor track at the Oak Lawn Pavilion.”

He began running in college, “mostly out of boredom,” he said, but now he doesn’t let a day go by without it.

“On July 25, 2004, I started a streak of running at least one mile every day,” he said, although his daily distance is usually much greater. Busy weeks at work, vacations, days under the weather, even the wee hours before early morning flights haven’t kept Gilbert from pounding the pavement, usually alongside his dad.

“We’re always doing about a 5K each day,” he said. “We take family vacations to Disney and we’ll run along the outskirts of

Photo by Anthony Caciopo

Michael Gilbert is accompanied by his Mini Goldendoodle, Rizzo, on a run in preparation for the Southwest Half Marathon.

Epcot or Hollywood Studios before the parks open,” adding with a laugh “we’d get up at 3 a.m. and run before our flight.”

Gilbert described the unhealthy road he was on as a youth.

“I stayed inside the house and played Nintendo,” he said. “I didn’t do any exercise as a kid.”

Gilbert said he couldn’t even make it around the track at St. Laurence High School in Burbank, where he attended. His understanding gym instructor Tom Gauger urged him on by allowing him to walk the curved portions of the oval track as Gilbert worked to build his stamina.

But these days, Gilbert said, “Running is so contagious.” Besides his dad, his other regular running partner is his dog, Rizzo.

Gilbert and Rizzo can often be found running near the Moraine Valley Community College campus.

“The dog is great, because when he wants to take off I get my sprint workouts. When he wants to go, he goes.”

Gilbert and his wife, Tanja, have an eight-month-old daughter, Olivia. He works as a marketing specialist for LifeSource, which specializes in blood collecting, testing and management.

With race day drawing near, Gilbert reflects on another major component of training: his food intake.

“I don’t think I’m a great example of nutrition,” he said, admitting that he enjoys Taco Bell every Wednesday. “There’s nothing I really limit myself. I need my tacos, my Papa John’s (pizza),” he said with a smile.

Watch for Michael Gilbert’s account of the 10th Annual Southwest Half Marathon in the May 11 edition of The Regional and The Reporter newspapers.

Palos Park

Continued from Page 1 which starts May 1 and ends April 30, 2018. Maziarek added the village will not ask any of its employees to take furlough days. The proposed budget does not feature the addition of any new village positions, although Maziarek said there is money in the budget to fill two vacant officer positions in the police department.

Village employees are due a 2.5 percent raise this year, she said.

Following the presentation Commissioner G. Darryl Reed praised Maziarek and her staff as well as village department heads for helping build up a deep reserve.

“It’s a credit to your professional stewardship to get us where we are now,” Reed told Maziarek.

Palos Park is required to file its budget with Cook County by the end of May, Maziarek said.

Responding to a Regional News inquiry the following day, Maziarek provided additional information about the states of the general fund and the reserve fund.

“The Village of Palos Park anticipates a surplus in the general fund at the close of fiscal year 2018,” she said. “The general fund is where the majority of revenue and expenditures are recorded. The general fund beginning and ending balance exceeds the required reserves as set by the Village Council.

“Also anticipated for the coming fiscal year 2018 will be fund reserve reductions in the Motor Fuel Tax, sewer, water and 0.5 percent sales tax funds,” Maziarek said. “In these areas of the budget, a portion of the fund surpluses will be utilized for capital projects.

Photo by Michael Gilbert

Village Finance Director Barb Maziarek presents details of the proposed Palos Park budget for fiscal year 2018, which begins May 1.

In all of these funds, these larger projects are delayed a year in order to save up or increase our fund balances and reserves to pay for these projected expenses in the following fiscal year.”

In other news at the Village Council meeting, commissioners voted 4-0 to approve a recommendation from Village Manager Rick Boehm to contract the Crest Hill-based Filotto Construction at a cost not to exceed $18,240 to reroof and install new gutters and downspouts at the original McCord House structure.

Boehm was unsure when the roof at the house portion of the McCord Gallery & Cultural Center, 9602 W. Creek Road, was last replaced but said it is “old and brittle.”

He did not have a timetable for when work would begin at the McCord House but expected it would start “soon.” Money from the village’s general fund will cover the cost.

Commissioner Nicole Milovich-Waters reminded those at

the meeting that Palos Park owns the McCord House so that is why the village will cover the cost of the repair work.

The McCord House’s roots date back to the 1830’s, and roughly 170 years later the building was annexed into Palos Park and established as a home for the arts.

The building was constructed after early settler John D. McCord obtained the land in 1834. The home remained in the McCord family for more than 100 years, according to information on Palos Park’s website.

A substantial addition was recently completed with private funding at the arts center to incorporate more classrooms and gallery space. An official grand opening with a reception open to the public will take place from 2 to 5 p.m. this coming Sunday, April 30. The roof repair and gutters project will only pertain to the original McCord House and not the addition, Milovich-Walters said.

Photos by Anthony Caciopo

The build process was in full swing last weekend at Peace Memorial Church in Palos Park as raised planter beds for the community garden took shape in the hands of at least 15 volunteers. Cindy White (kneeling, left photo) and Ruth Vanhecker use a power drill to drive screws into a bed that’s almost ready for installation. Elsewhere in the outdoor workshop area, George Holmes (left in upper-right photo) and Herb Zimmermann check for plumb and square on a bed they are assembling while Kim Skala and Dennis Kirscher do an initial layout of cut boards.

Kirscher, an optometrist in Homer Township, served as master carpenter for the project.

Garden

Continued from Page 1 about the topics: • Pests, beneficial and non-beneficial • How to make the most of the space • Seed-sharing • Beekeeping and pollinating • Food safety • The watershed model, which illustrates what homeowners do to their lawns has an effect on the environment.

Each gardener with a bed will receive a bucket filled with infor-

mational literature.

Peace Memorial congregation members have participated in a variety of charitable efforts over the years, including Relay for Life, Habitat for Humanity and more, according to Cheryl Puhr.

“We’re always looking for something of service to do,” she said. “We hadn’t done something (a chartable project) for a while and we were brainstorming ideas.”

Those brainstorming sessions led to the community garden project.

“There’s one in Orland but there’s no community garden anywhere in this area,” said Puhr.

“When you talk to friends and family, even from outside the church, they all say ‘That’s so cool!’”

Registration is already underway and the beds are available on a first-come, first-served basis. The cost is $15 for the smaller-sized bed and $30 for the larger bed.

The official opening planting is anticipated for Mothers Day weekend, May 13 and 14.

Peace Memorial Church is located at 10300 W. 131st St., Palos Park. More information may be obtained by calling the church office at (708) 448-7833 or emailing CommunityGarden@pmcuss.org.

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The Regional News

Thursday, April 27, 2017

3

Dist. 230 to honor 13 outstanding alumni

Staff photo

Anderson Annex at McCord Gallery & Cultural Center in Palos Park officially opens

Deborah Hodges wields oversized scissors to snip a ceremonial ribbon marking the grand opening of the expanded McCord Gallery & Cultural Center, 9602 W. Creek Rd. in Palos Park. Hodges, a McCord board member, cut the ribbon in honor of her mother, Betty Anderson, whose initial contribution gave the McCord organization the boost it needed to start a capital campaign that eventually raised $1.2 million for construction of the Anderson Annex for the Arts. Taking part in the event are (from left): Lynne Terr, McCord’s executive director; Marty Linderborg, secretary of the Palos Area Chamber of Commerce; Nancy Mitchell, McCord board member and president of the Palos Heights Woman’s Club; Barb Bergamo, president of the chamber; Carol Trzinski, president of the McCord board; Carol Stefan, newscaster with Palos Heights TV Channel 4; Bridget Sullivan (obscured), board member of the chamber; John Mahoney, Palos Park mayor; Hodges; Eric Waner (obscured) of Waner Enterprises, builders of the addition; Kent Oliven of the McCord board; Jim Waner, Jr. of Waner Enterprises; Jeanne Kraupauskas of the McCord board and Jim Waner, Sr. of Waner Enterprises. A reception for the public will be held from 2 to 5 p.m.

Sunday, April 30. The privately funded expansion provides for more classrooms and gallery space, helping bring the arts to the community, according to the McCord executive staff.

Kelly N. McGuire, 27, of Orland Park, was charged with driving under the influence of alcohol following a traffic stop at 2:09 a.m. April 23, in the 12800 block of South Harlem Avenue.

Police said she was also cited for improper lane usage, driving without insurance and driving without headlights when required. She is due in court on June 14.

Wayne R. Potenberg, 53, of Lockport, was charged with DUI following a traffic stop at 12:52 a.m. Tuesday, in the 12300 block of South Harlem Avenue. Police said he was also cited for driving with suspended registration and having only one working headlight. He is due in court on May 8.

Aggravated speeding Laura Arriola-Mendoza, 46, of Oak Forest, was charged with aggravated speeding following a traffic stop at 5:57 a.m. April 21, in the 12900 block of South

Harlem Avenue. Police said she was driving 30 mph over the posted speed limit. She is due in court on May 6.

Laura S. Garza-Khandwala, 46, of South Holland, was charged with aggravated speeding following a traffic stop at 9 a.m. Friday, in the 7700 block of West McCarthy Road. Police said she was driving 30 mph over the posted speed limit. She was also cited for driving without insurance. She is due in court on June 6.

Suspended license Deja Stanford, 20, of Gary, Ind., was charged with driving with a suspended license following a traffic stop at 11:37 p.m. April 19, in the 6300 block of West 135th Street. Police said she was also cited for improper lane usage and driving without insurance. She is due in court on June 6.

Adriana Guzman, 34, of Oak Lawn, was charged with driving with a suspended license follow-

ing a traffic stop at 8:42 a.m. April 18, in the 12300 block of South Ridgeland Avenue. Police said she was also cited for driving without insurance and failure to yield from a private driveway. She is due in court on May 22.

Mahmoud I. Al Natour, 20, of Chicago Ridge, was charged with driving with a suspended license following a traffic stop at 11:24 a.m. April 18, in the 12300 block of South Harlem Avenue. Police said he was also cited for driving without insurance. He is due in court on May 8.

tablished themselves as leaders and innovators in their professions and communities. O’Connor and Darlas were inducted into Legacy Hall in 2009.

The Legacy Hall Class of 2017 includes: Dr. Nadine Bolger, Doctor of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sandburg High School, class of 1991; Catherine Bronson, Assistant Teaching Professor, University of Notre Dame, Andrew High School, class of 1990; Joyce Ann Guzik, Scientist, Laboratory Fellow at Los Alamos National Laboratory, Stagg High School, class of 1978; Senator Mike Hastings, Illinois State Senator, Andrew High School, class of 1998; Nely Keinanen, University Lecturer Modern Languages, University of Helsinki, Finland, Stagg High School, class of 1978 and Steven Molo, Founder of MoloLamken Law Firm, Stagg High School, class of 1975.

Also: Dr. William Nevin, Retired Pulmonologist, Sandburg High School, class of 1958; Edmund Palekas, Retired Col-

onel, U.S. Army, Stagg High School, class of 1979; Dr. David Sartoris (posthumous), Professor of Radiology, University of California at San Diego, Stagg High School, class of 1972; Aristotle Papanikolaou, Archbishop Demetrios Chair, Orthodox Theology and Culture, Fordham University, Stagg High School, class of 1984; Bonnie Tholl, Associate Head Softball Coach, University of Michigan, Andrew High School, class of 1987; Wendy Ulaszek, Associate Research Professor, School of Social Work of the University of Connecticut, Stagg High School, class of 1986 and Mary Jo Viero, Community Organizer, Beverly Area Planning Association, Sandburg High School, class of 1984.

The 2017 inductees join a distinguished list of 97 members of District 230’s Legacy Hall.

The complete list can be found at www.d230foundation.org.

A limited number of tickets are still available and may be obtained by calling 708-745-5222.

POLICE BLOTTER: PALOS PARK Palos West, 12700 S. 104th Ave., on April 12 during an art exhibit and smoking on the property. He supposedly doesn’t have children at either school and told police he was visiting his alma maters for “therapy reasons.”

Gas stolen

POLICE BLOTTER: PALOS HEIGHTS DUI

The District 230 Foundation will honor 13 outstanding alumni as it inducts the Class of 2017 into Legacy Hall at 5:30 p.m. Friday, April 28 at Palos Country Club, 13100 Southwest Hwy. in Orland Park.

This marks the 10th year of the District 230 Foundation Legacy Hall.

District 230 has many outstanding alumni who have used their education and experience to become successful, positive contributors to society. The District 230 Foundation Legacy Hall was established to recognize and honor graduates from Sandburg High School (Orland Park), Stagg High School (Palos Hills) and Andrew High School (Tinley Park) who exemplify the core mission of District 230: “Adults prepared to realize their life-long potential in an ever-changing world.”

Sandburg High School alumnus Dave O’Connor and Andrew High School alumna Andrea Darlas will again emcee the event.

They will introduce 13 outstanding alumni who have es-

An attendant at the Shell gas station at 12301 S. 80th Ave. reported a gasoline theft at 7:54 p.m. April 9. Police said the employee told them a man tried to use a credit card several times at a pump, and then gave the card to the attendant, who opened the pump and recorded his license plate. Police said after pumping gas worth $26, the man, whose name is not known to police, drove away without paying after the credit card was rejected again.

Driver’s license charges

Trespassing at schools

A 42-year-old Palos Park man was warned not to return to Palos South and Palos West schools, where he was reportedly seen wandering the halls. Police said surveillance cameras recorded Cannabis possession him twice at Palos South, 12100 John Lopresti, 18, of Crest- S. 82nd Ave., on April 10, at a wood, was charged with pos- volleyball game and in the halls. session of cannabis following He was also reportedly seen at a traffic stop at 7:10 p.m. April 19, in the 13000 block of South Ridgeland Avenue. He was also cited for not wearing a seatbelt.

He is due in court on May 22

Mary E. Esposito, 55, of New Lenox, was charged with driving with an expired license at 11:27 a.m. April 14, in the 11700 block of Southwest Highway. Police said she was also cited for suspended registration and driving without insurance. She is due in court at June 12.

David R. Kieffer, 55, of Orland Park, was charged with driving with an expired license at 2:40 p.m. April 15, at 14200 South LaGrange Road. Police said he was also cited for expired registration. He was also wanted on an outstanding Will County warrant for failure to appear in court for an expired license charge, said police.

He is due in court on June 12.

Mathew K. John, 52, of Tinley Park, was charged with driving with a suspended license following a traffic stop at 4:34 a.m. April 17, in the 7600 block of West 131st Street. Police said he was also cited for disobeying a stop sign.

He is due in court on June 12.

Madleen B. Rafati, 20, of Orland Park, was charged with driving with a suspended license following a traffic stop at 7:40 p.m. April 18, in the 12700 block of Southwest Highway. Police said he was also cited for speeding.

He is due in court on June 12.

Aggravated speeding Miranda M. Galason, 22, of Burbank, was charged with aggravated speeding following a traffic stop at 12:56 a.m. April 9, in the 13000 block of Southwest Highway. Police said she was traveling 73 mph in a 40 mph zone. She is due in court on May 4.

POLICE BLOTTER: ORLAND PARK Lockport man charged with aggravated DUI Orland Park police charged Kevin J. Smetana, 51, of Lockport, with aggravated DUI, improper lane usage, operating a motor vehicle with only one working headlight and operating an uninsured motor vehicle after they curbed Smetana his pickup truck near 179th Street and Southwest Highway at 1:43 a.m. April 1. The DUI charge was made aggravated because Smetana has two prior DUI convictions, according to the police report. His truck was towed and seized, and Smetana was due in court at a bond hearing on April 2.

Man pulled PBR from pockets during DUI stop, police say Orland Park resident Clint Robbins, 21, was charged with DUI, illegal transportation of alcohol, driving on a suspended license, operating an uninsured motor vehicle and improper lane usage after police stopped his SUV in the 15700 block of South West Avenue at 9 p.m. April 3. Police said they were alerted to the situation when another motorist called 911 to report that Robbins was driving erratically. Police said that Robbins pulled two cans of Pabst Blue Ribbon beer from his pockets during the traffic stop. The vehicle was towed and impounded, and Robbins is scheduled to appear in court in Bridgeview on May 4.

Talked on phone while driving, police say Markham resident Courtney S. Stupp, 28, was charged with operating a motor vehicle while using an electronic communications device and driving on a suspended license after police curbed her car in the 9100 block of West 159th Street at 7:12 p.m. April 5. She was due in court in Brid-

geview on April 20 to answer the two charges. She also was cited for possession of cannabis and possession of drug paraphernalia after she reportedly turned over a small amount of cannabis and a smoking pipe during the traffic stop. She is set to appear at the Orland Park Civic Center on May 9 to respond to those charges.

according to the police report. A charge of unlawful possession of a theft detection-shielding device was added after police reportedly confiscated a foil-lined bag from Baker. He was due at a bond hearing the following day.

“Home of Instant Credit”

Charge Florida woman with identity theft Cassandra Marie Savinon, 23, of Jacksonville, Fla. was charged with felony identity theft after she allegedly attempted to use a 38-yearold Washington State man’s name to obtain credit to purchase a $969 iPhone 7 Plus Savinon from the Apple Store in Orland Square Mall at 12:49 p.m. April 2. Store security told police they became suspicious when they recognized Savinon as a suspect in a deceptive practice/identity theft incident that reportedly occurred the day before at the Apple Store in Northbrook.

She was taken into custody after an AT&T security representative described the purchase as suspicious, police were told. Police said their initial efforts to contact the man in Washington State were unsuccessful but that he did contact them later to say that he does not have a credit card account with AT&T and that he wanted charges filed against Savinon. She was set to appear at a bond hearing the following day.

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Convicted thief stole jeans, police say Police charged Chicago resident Clifford E. Baker, 46, with retail theft after he allegedly stole two pairs of True Religion jeans worth $338 from The Buckle in Orland Square Mall at 3:35 p.m. March 28. The charge was made a felony after authorities learned that Baker has 14 prior convictions relating to larceny,

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4 Thursday, April 27, 2017

EDITORIAL

OPINION

The Regional News

No one can earn Orland’s inflated mayoral salary Keith Pekau has yet to take office as Mayor of Orland Park and he is already parsing words over mayoral compensation.

In an interview this week with The Regional News, Pekau said he intends to accept an annual salary of $150,000 when he is installed as the village’s chief executive on May 15 but will not get a pension increase engineered on behalf of outgoing Mayor Dan McLaughlin.

“I will earn the $150,000. I never said anything different,” Pekau told The Regional.

No you won’t, Mr. Mayor-elect. And here is why.

Thanks to the obsequiousness of the Orland Park village board, this mid-sized commuter suburb of approximately 58,000 people now will pay more for its mayor more than some of the world’s great cities. Among them are Madrid, which pays its mayor $101,190; Moscow, which pays $96,987; Rome, which pays $57,699 and Paris, which pays its mayor $9,242.

These figures come from conservative websites, whose funders actively supported Pekau.

McLaughlin, whose pay was suddenly increased a whopping 375 per cent from $40,000 a year, effective with the four-year term set to begin May 15, would have earned more than the mayors of the following U.S. cities: Cleveland, Las Vegas, Nashville, Salt Lake City, Portland, Minneapolis, St. Paul, St. Louis, Kansas City, Cincinnati, Charlotte, Oklahoma City, Sacramento, Louisville, San Jose, Pittsburgh, Indianapolis, Miami, Phoenix, Austin, Dallas and San Antonio. The distinction of being the most overpaid mayor in America will now belong to Pekau.

In Illinois, comparably sized municipalities like Tinley Park paid its mayor $62,286 last year. Naperville paid its mayor $20,000.

So, let’s cut to the chase. By international, national and local standards $150,000 is way too much money for the mayor of Orland Park to earn, regardless of the convoluted rationalizations the village board and McLaughlin cited last October.

Among them: the conversion of the mayor’s job to full-time from part-time by adding economic development responsibilities.

Let’s not forget that Orland Park already employs a village manager and an assistant village manager. Both positions are currently filled by interim personnel who were appointed April 17: Joe La Margo, the interim manager, will earn $160,000 per year and Karie Friling, the interim assistant manager, will earn $116,000 per year.

Fortunately, the citizens of Orland Park saw through the board’s malarkey that Pekau is now parroting. Overcompensation was THE reason, the only reason, Pekau unseated McLaughlin in the recent mayoral election, even though McLaughlin capably served the village for 23 years as part-time mayor.

But now that the 375 percent pay raise is Pekau’s, the mayor-elect wants Orland Park voters to look the other way and focus on pensions, only. Can’t blame him, since the incremental increase in payroll expense of $440,000 over four years will now end up in the new mayor’s pocket rather than the outgoing mayor’s pocket.

That’s not to say Pekau doesn’t have a point about pensions.

He does.

McLaughlin’s pay raise had all the characteristics which experts in public finance call pension spiking. A pension spike occurs when a public official nets a huge pay raise four years before retirement so that his pension is calculated at the higher rate.

Specifically, McLaughlin stood to increase his pension from Orland Park by $60,000 (from just over $28,000 to $100,000 a year) had he been the recipient of that pay raise and had he retired at the end of the term starting May 15. Because Pekau is not vested in the Orland Park pension system, he is right to assert that village taxpayers will not be liable for that portion of the incremental compensation increase.

Thank goodness for small favors. However, simple math suggests the bigger short-term annual incremental expense for Orland Park taxpayers is and was the pay raise, and not the pension expense.

Regardless of what Pekau asserts about what he said during the campaign, he and the Orland Park board need to show leadership and bring mayoral compensation in line with its peer suburbs.

The Orland Park board and Pekau should re-set the mayor’s compensation at parity with neighboring Tinley Park at $62,286 a year. If that’s not possible, then the new mayor should send a check back to the Orland Park clerk for $87,714 at the end of each year in office.

Common sense and civic decency are at stake here. So, too, is politics. Residents in Orland Park did not vote to replace an old version of double talk with a new version of the same.

Schieffer’s call for even better journalism rings true

By Gene Policinski

Veteran CBS News journalist Bob Schieffer closed out an extraordinary round of discussions recently at the Newseum with a call for even better journalism — and a reminder of its place and importance to our democracy.

The morning program, “The President and the Press: The First Amendment in the First 100 Days,” included White House Press Secretary Sean Spicer, Counselor to the President Kellyanne Conway, and journalists from news outlets such as Breitbart News, CNN, Fox News, The Washington Post and The New York Times.

The goal of the symposium, Newseum CEO Jeff Herbst said in his opening remarks, was to look for areas of common agreement on how best to report on the Trump presidency. Schieffer took up that challenge as he ended the program.

Noting that the 2016 presidential campaign was the 14th that he covered as a journalist, Schieffer observed that — unlike other campaigns where the candidates’ slogans were memorable catchphrases — this campaign’s hallmark slogan will be “Have you ever...?”

Schieffer wryly commented that every campaign he has seen has an “all the fault of the media” phase. He recommended not overreacting to even this year’s “really nasty” attacks on the press, saying “This is

12243 S. Harlem Ave., Palos Heights, IL 60463 and additional post offices.

© Entire contents copyright 2015 Southwest Regional Publishing

This newspaper is dedicated to the memory of those who gave their lives to protect America’s freedom of the press, whenever and however it may be threatened.

Schieffer said “politicians are there to run the campaigns. Government officials are there to run the government. They are there to deliver a message. Our job is simply to check out the message, determine if it’s true, and if so, what will be its impact on the governed.”

Those who would undermine the function of a free press undermine the foundations of this country, Schieffer said.

“We are not the opposition party, as some would have you believe...nor is it our place to sit down and shut up and let the world pass by, as some would have us do.”

Inevitably, Schieffer’s even-handed call on Wednesday for better reporting roused spiteful comments from some of those tuning into the event through social media.

One Twitter user wrote that “TRUTH is the enemy of...hacks like Bob Schieffer.

We are making corporate propagandists like him extinct. He is bitter and fearful.”

Far from going extinct, Schieffer’s defense of good journalism rings true — now and for future generations of journalists.

It’s more likely that such critics — “bitter and fearful” by their very verbal venom — are the ones who will eventually fade from sight.

Gene Policinski is chief operating officer of the Newseum Institute. He can be reached at gpolicinski@newseum.org.

Follow him on Twitter: @genefac.

Trump movement for ‘change’ awakens Reagan Democrats

The major news media all seemed to focus on one election story on April 4, a story they spun to falsely suggest that President Donald Trump has made Republicans vulnerable.

But if you look past the news media’s bias, the truth might be a little more complex.

It’s true. Republican Roger Claar faced his toughest challenge in his 31 years as Bolingbrook’s mayor. Anti-Trump activists angry that he hosted a Trump fundraiser last September galvanized around Democrat Jackie Traynere, a member of the Will County Board.

Claar survived with a razor-thin margin.

That wasn’t the case for 17 suburban Chicago mayors. Some lost because of controversies they created. Others lost because of bad campaigning. But many who lost were overwhelmed by new voters energized by Trump’s call for “change.”

Although Trump wasn’t an issue in Orland Park, the voter turnout set a new Owned and operated by Southwest Regional Publishing Co. record. Consistently for six elections, Democrat Dan McLaughlin easily won with Mark Hornung, Chief Operating Officer voter turnout under 9,000 votes.

The Business Side The News Side Nearly 13,000 people voted this time, an Donna Brown, Sales Director Anthony Caciopo, Editor increase of almost 4,000 votes. McLaughlin Monica Cotter, Finance Director Dermot Connolly, Reporter faced an unknown challenger with no politDebbie Perrewe, Classified Manager Jeff Vorva, Sports Editor ical experience, Keith Pekau. McLaughlin’s Mike Russell, Production Director Lauren Ziemann, Art Director trustees did not face challengers because Rita Crosley, Pre-press Manager Chuck Ingwersen, Designer Pekau ran on his own.

What’s fascinating and significant is the Southwest Regional Publishing unchallenged trustees fell almost 5,000 12243 S. Harlem Ave. votes short of the 12,839 total votes cast.

Palos Heights, IL 60463 It seems that most of the new voters didn’t Phone: (708) 448-4000 waste their time on uncontested races. Had Fax: (708) 448-4012 there been challengers to the trusteess, I Website: www.theregionalnews.com bet all the incumbents would have been email: TheRegional@comcast.net ousted along with McLaughlin.

Office hours: Monday-Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The race turned on two political factors.

Liberty Principles PAC, headed by conDeadlines servative radio talk show host Dan Proft, Editorial: Noon, Saturday • Advertising: 5 p.m., Monday spent $183,000 on TV ads attacking McSubscription rates: Local, delivered by mail, $48 a year in advance. Out-of-State, $58 Laughlin. And, the Republican leadership a year. Single copies, $1. Postmaster: Send address changes to THE REGIONAL NEWS, including GOP County Commissioner Sean The Regional News cannot be responsible for the return of unsolicited material. USPS 419-260 Periodical postage paid at Palos Heights, IL 60463 and additional post offices.

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all part of the job. It is something we all know about and expect...that part is not to be taken seriously.”

Schieffer said much of the criticism leveled at journalists during the campaign was contradictory. Some accused the press of “electing Trump because we gave him too much exposure.” Other critics said the press “missed the story because we did not take him seriously.” And yet others said the news media “did not really make much difference because Trump used social media to go around us.” Not all of those could be true, he said.

Serious lessons that can be taken from the election: “Too much information” opened the door for a flood of fake news.

New media outlets and social media need to “take some responsibility for what the information is they are distributing.”

“Too many so-called surrogates and strategists made their way onto television and were given far more credibility than they deserved” in a misguided effort to show balance, Schieffer said. “It didn’t take long to listen to them to understand they had no understanding, and really no contact with either campaign.”

Schieffer also said the press paid too much attention to polling and the drama around what he called meaningless one-point leads by candidates. Journalists should “get back to knocking on doors and asking people how they feel,” he said.

In his eloquent defense of a free press,

RAY HANANIA Morrison, his predecessor GOP Committeeman Liz Gorman and Illinois GOP chairman Tim Schneider openly endorsed Pekau in the weeks before the election.

McLaughlin blasted Proft’s PAC attack ads, claiming he lost because of the PAC money, arguing they should be banned. But that’s sour grapes. Proft’s money leveled the financial playing field. McLaughlin and his team spent almost $200,000 in campaign donations while Pekau relied on $75,000, mostly his own money.

McLaughlin’s mistake is obvious. Like many of his 16 other colleagues, McLaughlin was just too arrogant and very unaccountable. McLaughlin’s greedy last-minute push to give himself a massive $110,000 hike to his salary, raising it to $150,000, and spiking his pension to an unbelievable $110,000 a year was just too much for voters to take.

I did a detailed analysis of the Orland race at my personal website TheDailyHookah.com.

Voters wanted “change.” It’s not about being Republican or Democrat, either. Although Trump is a “Republican,” he really is a new kind of Republican, a centrist who appeals to Democratic conservatives.

There are many “Reagan Democrats” living in suburban Cook County and Will County who identify with Trump’s message of change.

Those Reagan Democrats are often vilified by the news media as lower-income whites, a racist stereotype their flawed ethics ignores. These marginalized voters have found new life in Trump, who faces

opposition not just from hardline liberal Democrats, but from Republican insiders like Senators John McCain and Lindsey Graham who very definitely don’t want change.

In neighboring Tinley Park, voters demanded change there, too. Jacob Vandenberg of the longtime Republican family dynasty easily pushed out Mayor David Seaman, who succeeded the wildly popular and longtime Mayor Ed Zabrocki. Vandenberg won 62 percent of the vote.

Midlothian Village President Sharon Rybak lost by a landslide, winning only 26 percent of votes, as did Posen Mayor Donald Schupek. Incumbent mayors lost in Lake in the Hills, Carpentersville, Ford Heights, Lisle, Olympia Fields, Schiller Park, Stickney, Waukegan, Wheeling and Willow Springs.

Trump’s appeal to many voters isn’t his rhetoric. There is lot he says that I don’t always agree with. But, I didn’t always agree with the overly pleasing but often do-nothing rhetoric of President Barack Obama.

Three races involved mayors who were the center of personal controversies.

In Cook County, Dixmoor Mayor Dorothy Armstrong was under the shadow of controversy caught on camera in 2015 assaulting a trustee at a board meeting she thought was ridiculing her.

In McHenry County, Hebron Village President John Jacobson finished third out of four candidates after being charged with felony cocaine possession and illegal possession of a firearm. In Will County, Monee Mayor Jay Farquhar lost after allegedly breaking an umpire’s jaw at a Little League game for second and third graders last year.

Ray Hanania is an award winning columnist and author. Email him at rghanania@gmail.com or visit his website at TheDailyHookah.com.

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

E-mail letters to: theregional@comcast.net

BUSINESS

The Regional News

COMINGS & GOINGS

Can you free yourself of some investment-related taxes?

Supplied photo

Thai rolled ice cream parlor opens

Oak Lawn Restaurant to reopen The Oak Lawn Restaurant announced over the weekend on Facebook that it hoped to reopen this week after a car drove through a wall earlier this month and knocked the venerable eatery out of business.

The restaurant at 5769 W. 95th St. was forced to close April 7 after a car leaving the car wash across the street accidentally crashed into the wall of the business.

The driver was unhurt but a restaurant customer inside the restroom was injured slightly.

The restaurant has been making repairs since the accident and said it hoped to reopen this week.

The restaurant has been family owned and operated since 1957.

Jet’s Pizza closes in Palos Heights Jet’s Pizza opened its first south suburban location at 17105 S. 88th Avenue in Tinley Park in 2013 and later expanded to a second location at 7154 W. 127th St. in Palos Heights.

The Tinley location is still open but the Palos Heights location closed recently. A sign on the door said “Closed due to circumstances beyond our control.”

An employee at the Tinley store

BOB BONG said the Palos Heights location closed because of poor sales.

Dunkin Donuts Plaza under construction in Orland A new retail development that will be called Dunkin Donuts Plaza is under construction at 15615 S. Harlem Ave. in Orland Park.

According to plans approved by the Orland Park Village Board more than a year ago, the former Orland Park Buffet will be remodeled into two units. The northern unit will be a Dunkin Donuts with a new drive-in service window.

There was no indication what the second unit would become nor what would become of the existing Dunkin Donuts shop just to the south.

Kids Foot Locker opens at Orland Square A Kids Foot Locker and Fly Zone is the newest addition to Orland Square Mall The store opened earlier this month in the lower level JC Penney Court. The store takes up 4,300 square feet and features the latest in children’s athletic footwear, apparel and accessories.

“We are thrilled that Foot Locker is growing its iconic footwear brand and bringing the latest fashions to our center this month,” Nadia Seniuta, general manager at Orland Square, said in the release. “These new and expanded openings demonstrate that we’re continuously working to provide our loyal shoppers with a diverse selection of top name-brand stores and wider variety of merchandise within their favorite retailers.”

Ultra stores closing in Illinois A month after northwest Indiana-based Strack & Van Til announced it would close five stores including an Ultra on Chicago’s Southwest Side, the chain’s parent

said it would close all nine Ultra stores it operates and sell off 22 stores it operates in Indiana.

In March, the supermarket chain said it would close a longtime Strack’s 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’s Ashburn community.

Other Illinois stores to be closed were 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 were expected to close by April 30.

Last week, Strack’s parent, Central Grocers in Joliet, said that it was in talks to sell 22 stores operated under the Strack & Van Til name and that it would start going out of business sales at its nine remaining Ultra stores.

Seven of the Ultra stores are in Illinois in Lansing, Crestwood, Wheaton, Joliet, Chicago Heights, Calumet Park and Forest Park.

The other two Ultra stores are in Gary and Merrillville in northwest Indiana.

Central and Strack did not identify a buyer for the stores it intended to sell, but said the stores were profitable and would probably stay open. The company operates under the Strack & Van Til, Town & Country Market and Ultra banners.

Caribbean restaurant opens in Justice The Banana Leaf restaurant, which features Jamaican and Caribbean cuisine, is now open at 8580 S. 88th Avenue in Justice.

The Justice site is the second location for the restaurant, which was founded in 2009 in the South Shore neighborhood of Chicago.

It offers take-out and delivery but dine-in seating is planned.

Hours are 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Monday to Thursday, from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday and from noon to 8 p.m. on Sunday.

For more information, call (708) 330-5280.

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

Tax Freedom Day generally falls around this time each year. This is the day when the nation as a whole has earned enough money to pay off its total tax bill for the year, according to the calculations made by the Tax Foundation. So you may want to use Tax Freedom Day to think about ways you can liberate yourself from some of the investment-related taxes you may incur.

Of course, Tax Freedom Day is something of a fiction, in practical terms, because most people pay their taxes throughout the year via payroll deductions. Also, you may not mind paying your share of taxes, because your tax dollars are used in many ways – law enforcement, food safety, road maintenance, public education, and so on — that benefit society. Still, you may be able to reduce those taxes associated with your investments, leaving you more money available to help you work toward your important goals, such as a comfortable retirement.

Here are some suggestions for making investing less “taxing”: • Contribute regularly to tax-advantaged retirement plans. Contribute as much as you can afford to your IRA and your 401(k) or other employer-sponsored retirement plan. Traditional IRA earnings grow tax deferred, and your contributions may be tax-deductible, depending on your income. (Taxes will be due upon withdrawal, however, and withdrawals made before you turn 59½ may be subject to a 10% IRS penalty.) Your 401(k) or similar plan also provides the opportunity for tax-deferred earnings growth. Roth IRA contributions are not deductible, but your earnings are distributed taxfree, provided you don’t take withdrawals until you’re 59½ and you’ve had your account at least five years.

• Follow a “buy-and-hold” strategy. If you sell investments you’ve owned for less than a year, and their value has increased, you will have to pay capital gains taxes at your personal income tax rate, which, in early 2017, could be as high as 39.6%. But if you hold investments for at least a year before selling them, you’d be assessed the long-term capital gains rate, which tops out at 20%.

Be aware, though, that the Trump administration

Orland Park Judicial Sales Corp to Terra Info Holdings LLC, 15316 Woodmar Ave, $178,000; Jpaxinos Aristeides P to Moreno Ruben Jr, 10924 Crystal Springs Ln, $960,000; Clearwater Prop LLC to Modder Wesley J, 14440 S 80th Ave, $534,000; Marquette Bk Trt to Syska Thomas, 9907 145th Pl, $335,000; Racan Daniel J to Langman Michael B, 14018 Catherine Dr, $280,000; Gervasi Kristen M to Mccluster Pamela, 15726 Orlan Brook Dr, Unit #196, $127,000; Aguirre Anna Bertha to Zastawny Peter, 8831 Chadbourn Dr,

$218,000; Balaska Charilaos K to EP Sef III Orland Pk LLC, 9109 151st St, $650,000; Lindgren Carolyn A Tr to Ellison Michael S, 9858 Treetop Dr, Unit #5, $179,000; Larson David A to Micks Kenneth Micks Kristin, 15034 Hale Dr, $147,000; Kundys Sheila Tr to Budzinski Jason, 18065 Owen Dr, $320,000; Klein Patricia A to Chandler Jervis C, 17820 Cameron Pkwy, $176,000; Fioretti Michael Tr to Carter Richard D, 15722 Deerfield Ct, Unit #157221S, $116,500; Sponza Steven J Tr to Sweis Samih, 26 Silo Ridge Rd West, $749,000; DHE II LLC to Flaherty Bldrs Inc, 14401 Wolf Rd, $200,000; Flaherty Bldrs Inc to Yasmeen Tahira, 14401 Wolf Rd, $911,500; Sheehan Thomas P to Chatt Steven A Jr, 9000 W 140th St, Unit #90001D, $94,500;

Eastern Inv Grp LLC to Hammoud Haidar, 7626 Wheeler Dr, $307,000; Marotta Anthony to Marotta Vincent G, 8917 Briarwood Ln, $150,000; Biernat Jody A Tr to Bredberg Jack, 15436 Sheffield Ln, $290,000; Dain Judith A to Marini Robert L, 15614 Petunia Ct, Unit #25, $137,500; Glista Byrone D Jr to Przemyslaw Mazur, 8615 Lexington Ct, $480,000; Rebello Joseph L to Cherne Adam R, 11618 Twin Lakes Dr, $445,000; Chicago Title Land Trust Co Tr to White Daniel, 15340 Thistlewood Dr, $273,000.

Palos Heights PB-SW SFR LLC to Jeoung Eun C, 46 W Parliament Dr, Unit #130, $110,000; Stanley William H Jr to Shaheen Motaz, 12803 S Cedar Ln,

Jim Van Howe Edward Jones

and Congress seem likely to change the tax rates.

Early plans call for a maximum personal income tax rate of 33%, with the top rate for capital gains and dividends either staying at 20%, or possibly being reduced to 16.5%. In any case, you’ll still come out ahead, tax-wise, by holding your investments long enough to receive the long-term capital gains rate.

• Consider municipal bonds – If you are in one of the higher income brackets, you might benefit from investing in municipal bonds, which are typically used to finance public projects, such as roads, schools, airports and infrastructure-related repairs. Interest payments from “munis” are typically exempt from federal income taxes and may also be exempt from state and local taxes, depending on the state in which the bond issuer is located.

Interest payments from some types of municipal bonds may be subject to the alternative minimum tax (AMT). Again, though, watch for developments from Washington, as both the Trump administration and some congressional leaders favor eliminating the AMT. When charting your investment strategy, consider your risk tolerance, time horizon, family situation and estate plans. But investment-related taxes should also be in your strategic mix — so look for opportunities to keep these taxes under control.

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

Edward Jones, its employees and financial advisors cannot provide tax or legal advice. You should consult your attorney or qualified tax advisor regarding your situation.

FASHION CHAT

Sassy Rodeo Grandpa loves a challenge I have yearned to divulge the following sartorial stance for some time. The sentiments involved therein form the very underpinning of my fashion sensibilities. Only recently did this approach enter my full awareness and elaborate the poignancy in my intentions.

I am an inveterate juxtaposition junkie. I relish an explicit contrast that manages to bring an ensemble into befuddling yet artful harmony.

This task of creation presents an exciting challenge when putting a look together. I seize this act of counterbalancing polarities within an outfit with unabashed vigor! More specifically, my fancy is markedly tickled when items will clash and butt heads individually but manage to become inextricably drawn together in the cooperative environment of a thoughtful outfit.

To elucidate, I counteract an over-sized top with second-skin leggings, voluminous sleeves with a mini skirt, or athletic shoes with an elegant dress.

A rather popular example of outfit antithesis is meshing the very dressed-up with very pared-down, as seen in outfits joining slick suits with Converse trainers, or casual jeans with sharp stilettos and a blazer. A favorite contrast is combining the ultra-feminine with more masculine, tailored looks.

With makeup, I love natural lips with very vampy done-up eyes.

As examples go, this next point is hardly simple to convey verbally, but I will make the attempt.

During the experience of a day’s outfit, I often come to assign a phrase to define the overall expression. In a recent instance, an outfit in the week was assigned the concept “Mick Jagger the clown.” On this occasion, I was wearing long, floral print bell-bottoms, super pointy-toe boots, and an oversized navy sweatshirt with a V-shape of large ruffles with thin white trim across the front.

Another example was what I dubbed the “sassy rodeo grandpa” ensemble. This balanced a clear dis-

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

FINANCIAL FOCUS

Tasty Freeze Dessert Bar is now open at Chicago Ridge Mall, featuring Thai rolled ice cream.

Tasty Freeze, a sweet shop that specializes in Thai rolled ice cream, opened April 10 in the food court at Chicago Ridge Mall in Chicago Ridge.

Thai rolled ice cream is one of the newest ideas in ice cream desserts. Tasty Freeze serves special flavors including Cookies and Cream, Tasty Thai Tea, Windy City Wonder and more.

Rolled ice cream uses a flavored milk-based liquid that is poured onto a cold metal or stone slab similar to a pizza pan. Next, cookies, candies and other flavor-rich bits are chopped and mixed in as the ingredients begin to cool to near frozen temperatures.

Working quickly, the ice cream is then spread out like pizza dough, then tightly rolled up and placed into cups with toppings such as cookies, whipped cream, berries, marshmallows, fudge, chocolate chips and more.

Thursday, April 27, 2017

$258,000; Chicago Title Land Trust Co Tr to Volka Rimvydas, 13218 Westview Dr, Unit #132181B, $165,000; TCF Natl Bk to Mulcahy Joseph P, 12519 Meade Ave, $194,000; Walsh Carol H Tr to Marshall Donn G, 7851 Golf Dr, Unit #78511B, $180,000.

Palos Park Garbrecht Paul to Dabal Daniel, 10840 Grandview Dr, $470,000; Murphy Patrick J Tr to Washington James H, 12633 Rosemary Ln, $555,000; First Midwest Bk to Dobrzyn Dariusz, 12600 S 84th Ave, $327,000; Mazur Anita L to Halleran Timothy J, 1 St. Moritz Dr, Unit #1201, $167,000; Delaney Michael S Tr to Zelepugas Eric A, 11921 Hobart St, $400,000.

CAROLINE FOREMAN play of sexy sass with black leather skinny trousers; rodeo elements with a flamboyant, broad-shouldered blazer in teal suede with lots of long, effervescent fringe; and grandpa aspects with vintage, caramel-colored leather wingtip oxfords.

Why do I do this to myself? What is this sick addiction? What is the reasoning behind the pursuit of heterogeneous pairings? There is a mélange of reasons I have realized for chasing these challenging looks. First and foremost, crafting outfits of juxtaposition is all at once odd, interesting, fun and expressive. I find that these outfits inject an exciting dose of artfulness and creativity into the entire day.

Another more useful reason to craft contrasting combinations is in order to use a broader variety of items in your closet, especially the more challenging or outlandish options. Oftentimes, this is actually where the challenge begins. If one takes a look at something in the closet that is rarely or never before worn, the task at hand to put the item to use will frequently conjure forth the most ingenious and satisfying presentation for the day.

I challenge you to embark on an outfit juxtaposition challenge. Evaluate your results and craft your own hilarious and mildly pejorative phrases of ensemble summation. Use every oddball piece waiting in the wings of your wardrobe! I challenge you to not feel excited, invigorated, and expressive.

Caroline Foreman is a fashion model, writer and critic.

Mortgage Rates Around the Area First Midwest Bank (as of April 24)

30-year fixed

RATES APR POINTS 4.125 4.160 0

15-year fixed

3.250

3.305

0

30-year fixed Jumbo

4.125

4.170

0

United Trust Bank (as of April 24)

30-year fixed

RATES APR POINTS 4.060 4.081 0

15-year fixed

3.375

3.411

0

10-year fixed

3.250

3.303

0

Prospect Federal (as of April 24)

30-year fixed

RATES APR POINTS 4.000 4.069 .25

20-year fixed

3.875

3.970

.25

15-year fixed

3.250

3.370

.25

All rates subject to change daily. Equal opportunity lenders.

6 Thursday, April 27, 2017

The Regional News

Palos Health, Loyola Medicine announce joint oncology venture

Marist High School’s gym was transformed into an assembly line for Feed My Starving Children with the school’s juniors packing more than 100,000 meals for the organization. The event was held as part of the Marist National Day of Service celebrating the Marist Brothers’ 200th anniversary.

Marist juniors help to feed children The junior class at Marist High School participated in a day-long service and team building program in honor of the Marist Brothers’ 200th anniversary.

The students exceeded the day’s goal by packing 108,864 meals that will feed 298 children for an entire year. Marist-sponsored schools across the U.S. also completed community service as part of the Brothers’ National Marist Day of Service.

The juniors began the day together with a brief prayer service.

They then split into two large groups of just over 200 students each. One group headed for the school’s main gym, where the students packed more than 53,000 meals for Feed My Starving Children (FMSC), a Christian non-profit organization called to feed starving children in body and spirit.

The students measured and mixed nutrient- and protein-rich non-perishable meals that will eventually be sent to more than 80 countries around the world, many of which the Marist Brothers serve through a variety of ministries.

“The opportunity for our kids to gather together and realize they are not only a part of Marist Chicago

but of the greater Marist world in the U.S. and across the globe is invaluable and goes to the core of our mission to serve the ‘least favored’,” explained Br. Hank Hammer, president of the school.

The second group of students gathered in the school’s Hynes Gym to participate in Champagnat Games named after the founder of the Marist Brothers.

These contests included musical chairs and relay races to help the students have fun and form better bonds. Both groups then gathered for lunch and then switched gyms and activities.

The cost of the food was covered by funds raised last October when Marist Chicago campus minister Patrick Meyer, Class of 2010, spent 36 straight hours on a playground swing installed at the school. Donations poured in totaling more than $25,000, which made the day free for junior students. All Marist students were encouraged to donate canned food items the day of the event. Those items were donated to St. Terrence food pantry in Alsip.

“The support that was shown during the fall was overwhelming, but seeing the outcome today and all of our students actually doing

this service is the payoff in all of this,” Meyer explained.

Around the country other Marist schools participated in environmental clean-ups, visited nursing homes, tutored grade school students, cleaned pet shelters and other events. All Marist students across the country finished the day with a prayer service and by voting for the service project they want the Brothers to fund to the tune of $200,000.

These projects include helping refugees in Syria, Lebanon, and Puzzle on Page 7 South Africa, rebuilding structures and schools in the Congo and Guatemala, and providing access to education in Bangladesh, Haiti and the Dominican Republic. Voting was closely split among the three causes and each will receive funding.

“This was a great day for Marist,” fellow campus minister Colleen Pochyly said after the event. “This was such a positive experience and a wonderful way for our junior class to really become leaders for next year.”

The Marist Brothers and schools have honored the anniversary with Puzzle on Page 7 events and programming throughout the 2016-17 school year.

Answers

Sudoku

Orland police collecting old medication The Orland Park Police Department will join law enforcement agencies across the country to participate in the National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day. Residents are encouraged to drop off unwanted prescription medications at the Orland Park Police Station, 15100 S. Ravinia, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, April 29.

“Orland Park continues to do its part to keep unused prescription drugs from getting into the wrong hands,” said Mayor Dan McLaughlin. “Many of us have old prescription drugs left over from surgeries or maybe from an ill family member that has passed.

Now is the time to clean out your medicine cabinets so that these drugs can be destroyed safely.”

There is no cost to participate, and the turn-in is confidential, police officials say. Glass containers, aerosol canisters, liquid drugs, intravenous solutions or syringes will not be accepted.

The U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration’s May 2016 National Drug Take-Back Day brought in the highest number of unused prescription drugs since the event’s inception in 2010. More than 4,000 federal, state and local authorities collected 893,498 pounds of unused, expired or unwanted drugs at more than 5,000 collection sites

across the country. Illinois had 24 tons and was one of the top five states with the largest collection.

“The Village of Orland Park has been in the forefront of battling illegal drug use within the community and the region, collecting thousands of pounds of no longer-needed prescription drugs,” said Police Chief Tim McCarthy.

“We invite and encourage everyone to drop off all medications that they no longer need.”

The Orland Park Police Department has collected more than two tons—4,200 pounds—of unwanted prescription meds since enroll-

ing in the program, officials said.

In addition to participating in DEA’s two national drug takebacks days, the Orland Park Police Department offers year-round collection.

“The police department’s ongoing prescription drug collection makes it even more convenient for residents to get rid of medicines they no longer need,” said Trustee Dan Calandriello, chair of the village’s Public Safety Committee. “Residents are able to drop off medications Monday through Thursday from 9 a.m. until 1 p.m. at the Orland Park Police Station.”

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HEALTH BEAT Tdap shots ready for those visiting new baby Grandparents and those who will be around a new baby can receive a Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis/whooping cough) shot at the Orland Township Office, 14807 S. Ravinia, Orland Park.

Appointments are required.

Residents will pay $55, and non-residents $60. Proof of residency is required. For an appointment and more information, call (708) 403-4222.

The CDC recommends receiving the shot two weeks before visiting with a new baby. Whooping cough is extremely dangerous to babies under six months old, and most catch the disease from adults like a grandparent or close family member.

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Palos Health and Loyola Medicine recently announced plans to establish a joint venture to offer radiation oncology services at Palos Health South Campus in Orland Park.

The joint venture, named South Campus Partners, LLC, is designed to strengthen the exclusive academic partner affiliation between Loyola and Palos and enhance delivery of world-class ambulatory care in the southwest suburbs, according to a statement.

“With this joint venture, Palos patients will have even greater access to Loyola’s academic expertise right in our neighborhood,” said Terrence Moisan, M.D., president & CEO of Palos. “Our goal is to develop the Palos Health South Campus into a regional destination for outpatient care.”

Palos Health is a community-based health care system consisting of Palos Hospital, Palos Medical Group, Palos South Campus in Orland Park and Palos Home Care and Hospice.

“Loyola is excited to expand our existing oncology program and services to include state-ofthe-art radiation oncology services on Palos’ south campus,” said Daniel J. Post, regional executive vice president for strategy and business development, Trinity Health Illinois. “We are committed to partnering with Palos to offer multi-disciplinary, collaborative

oncology care close to home.”

Trinity Health Illinois is a regional system of Trinity Health – one of the nation’s largest healthcare systems with 93 hospitals in 22 states – that includes Loyola University Health System.

South Campus Partners, LLC, will be governed by a board with equal representation from Loyola and Palos.

Radiation oncology services at the Loyola Center for Cancer Care & Research at Palos Health South Campus, 15300 S. West Ave., will open in the summer of 2018 and be located in 13,000-square-feet of newly constructed space offering improved patient access and additional physician office space.

Raymond B. Wynn, M.D., FACR, an internationally known radiation oncologist at Loyola, has been selected as the medical director of radiation oncology for this new facility.

The unit will feature the first radiation therapy system in Illinois that’s guided in real time by MRI imaging. During radiation therapy, tissues move when a patient breathes. The MRI-guided system, called MRIdian®, can image and treat cancer patients simultaneously with the ability to precisely target moving tumors during treatment while avoiding surrounding tissue.

“The ability to see, adapt and treat with MRI-guided radiother-

apy will benefit our patients in countless ways,” said William Small, Jr., M.D., FACRO, FACR, FASTRO, chair of Loyola’s department of radiation oncology.

Nearly two years ago, Loyola and Palos entered into a clinical affiliation agreement. Since then, affiliation developments have included: • A 24/7 “telestroke” program allows Loyola stroke specialists to assess Palos patients remotely via a telemedicine robot.

• The Loyola Center for Cancer Care & Research at Palos Health South Campus, which provides access to Loyola oncology experts, experimental new drugs and clinical trials, as well as an on-site chemotherapy infusion center.

• Streamlined trauma transfers and subspecialty referrals from Palos to Loyola.

• Educational programming for Palos physicians by teleconferenced grand rounds and continuing medical education courses.

Palos and Loyola now have compatible electronic medical records systems, making it easier for clinicians to gain access to medical records across both systems. As with previous steps in the partnership, Palos will remain independent. Each organization will maintain its own culture, mission and commitment to the community, and financial and organizational structures will remain separate.

LEGAL NOTICE

The Regional News

Thursday, April 27, 2017

7

Arts Extravaganza to bow on Shepard stage CROSSWORD PUZZLE Jason Warrior and RJ Collins, both of whom have competed on national television on “The Voice” this year, will headline the Friends of Community High School District 218 Education Foundation’s eighth annual Arts Extravaganza on Saturday, April 29 at Shepard High School, 13049 S. Ridgeland, Palos Heights.

Warrior and Collins are alumni of District 218 schools.

Both a fundraiser and a celebration of student talents in drama, speech, music, visual and the culinary arts, the event will run from 5 to 9 p.m. Students from Eisenhower, Richards and Shepard high schools will share the spotlight in a wide variety of arts.

Tickets are $10 for adults 18 to 59; $5 for students and $5 for adults age 60 and older. The ticket price includes hors d’oeuvres prepared by culinary arts students.

Tickets are available at the door.

Performing groups include the jazz bands from Eisenhow-

Supplied photo

The jazz band from Shepard High School will perform at Arts Extravaganza on Saturday, April 29 at Shepard. The event serves as fundraiser for college scholarships and teacher grants in District 218.

er, Richards and Shepard; show choirs; Cardinal Dance Team; The Laughing Aardvarks improv theater group from Richards; speech teams and Group Interpretation

productions.

The Arts Extravaganza also will feature a gallery exhibiting hundreds of art pieces by students from District 218 schools.

St. Al’s planning annual Raider Run/Walk

Across 1 Trellis pieces 6 “Ideas worth spreading” acronym 9 Runs out 14 Eponym of a United Kingdom poetry prize 15 Schooner filler 16 Walking the dog, e.g.

17 *Lost it 19 Storage place 20 Play set 22 Nonpro?

23 Man’s best friend, e.g.

26 Fiona, after Shrek’s kiss 28 Cut deeply 29 “Blues on the Bayou” musician 31 Spanish pronoun 32 Overindulgent outings 34 Stranded messenger 37 Handle 39 Mr. Potato Head piece 40 Front-wheel alignment 42 Unduly 43 Possesses with pride 46 Deflect, with “off” 47 Passes out 49 “The Girls Next Door” co-creator 51 Fictional Indiana town in “Parks and Recreation” 53 Genuine 54 Dust Bowl migrant 55 Release request 58 Summation symbol, in math 60 *Entertained the kids, in a way 64 Moral principle 65 Scar, say 66 Thorny evergreen 67 Occupied, as a desk 68 Museum pieces 69 Vertical

St. Alexander School will host its Fourth Annual 5k Raider Run/ Walk on Thursday, May 11.

The race will begin at 6 p.m. for runners and 6:05 p.m. for walkers. A free 100-yard Kids Dash will also be offered beginning at 5:40 p.m. Kids ages 6 and under are encouraged to come out and run for fun.

The 5k Raider Run/Walk will start and finish at the St. Alexander parking lot, 126th and 70th Avenue (just east of Harlem).

Prizes will be awarded for the top three male and the top three female finishers.

Race entry of $28 includes a Supplied photo performance-fit t-shirt. People are A scene from the 2016 5K race at St. Alexander.

Down encouraged to register by April 1 Its natl. emblem is the 28 to receive a t-shirt in their our students with advanced tech- and Applied Technology Lab up to preferred size. Registration af- nology programs,” said Principal four times a week and utilize other cedar tree ter that date does not guarantee a Cathy Biel. types of technology in the classt-shirt in a preferred size. Day-of Funds raised this year will room including iPads, Powerpoint registration is available for $30. support Phase II of the school’s presentations and Smartboards.

Post-race activities include free Applied Tech Lab project and go St. Alexander School is one face painting as well as music toward the purchase of seven new of only a few schools in the from DJ “Big Cat” Tom Englehart. modules and additional software, Archdiocese of Chicago to offer Diane’s Place will cook and sell Biel added. students a cutting-edge Applied hamburgers and hot dogs for all Participants can register online Technology Lab that provides race participants. at stalexanderschool.com or pay a variety of modules exploring More than $27,000 was raised by cash or check made payable different subjects and topics infor the St. Alexander School to St. Alexander School. cluding science, math and critical Technology Department in last Sponsorships are also being year’s 5K. Specifically, the accepted at any monetary level. thinking. St. Alexander recognizes money raised went toward up- A donation of $500 or more will the importance technology plays dating and improving the Applied guarantee a business logo to be in preparing students for high Tech Lab to transform it into a imprinted on the t-shirt, as well school, college and tomorrow’s Science-Technology-Engineer- as be in all race communications. workplace.

For further information regardSt. Alexander’s state-of-the-art ing-Math (STEM) lab.

“When people come together, computer lab is furnished with ing St. Alexander School and the we can accomplish great things. iMac computers and provides 5k Raider Run/Walk call (708) Our annual 5k run/walk is a terrific 1:1 technology for students. The 448-0408.

St. Alexander is currently accommunity event and I encourage school provides additional iPads everyone to support it. By par- for daily classroom use. Students cepting registration for the 2017ticipating, we can help provide attend class in the Computer Lab 18 academic year.

2 Every drop 3 20-20, e.g.

4 “What do you think?”

5 What one might have with milk, briefly?

6 Needle 7 Different 8 Road sign image 9 Email option, for short 10 “Shoot!”

11 *”Bonanza” star 12 Brings (out) 13 Late round 18 Satellite broadcasts 21 Team connection 23 Get rid of 24 Retro diet, to put it mildly 25 *Cottage site in the Beatles’ “When I’m Sixty-Four” 27 Kernel 29 Leadership 30 Hall of Fame pitcher Blyleven 33 Organic fuel

35 Bay Area pro 36 Court rival of Pete 38 Village Voice award 41 RisquŽ ... and what each answer to a starred clue contains?

44 Law school newbie 45 Drew back 48 Lack of get-up-and-go 50 Hold rapt 51 Puts forward 52 Animal that’s been a Japanese Natural Monument since 1931 53 Quick on the uptake 56 Humorous Bombeck 57 Sewer’s concern 59 Play 61 Natural resource 62 L.A. school 63 LAPD rank (Answers on page 6)

SUDOKU 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 6)

SCHOOL NOTES District 128 sets preschool screenings Palos Heights School District 128 will be conducting a screening for all children residing within district boundaries who are 3 to 5 years old, from 10:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday, May 8 at Indian Hill School, 12800 S. Austin.

Areas of development to be assessed will include speech and language, gross motor skills and visual/auditory strengths. A vision and hearing screening will also be

conducted.

Children will be screened by a diagnostic team of district personnel under the direction of District 128 Administration. Contact the Student Services office at (708) 597-1285 to make an appointment or to request additional information.

St. Laurence to hold 28th annual golf outing The 28th annual St. Laurence High School Golf Outing will be held Friday, May 26 at the Broken

Arrow Golf Club, 16325 Broken Arrow Drive, Lockport.

Alumni, staff, friends and benefactors of the school take part in this annual event. The shotgun start begins at 1 p.m. Registration and driving range availability begins at noon. Tee times are limited to the first 144 golfers.

The golf outing includes 18 holes of a scramble format. The outing includes contests, a raffle, lunch and beverages on the course, open bar, dinner, and giveaways for $150 per golfer. All reser-

vations have to be received by Monday, May 22. Sponsorship opportunities are available for both individuals and businesses.

For more information or to register, contact Ed Kozak, Class of 1979, the Office of Institutional Advancement, (708) 458-6900, ext. 244. He can also be reached by email at ekozak@stlaurence. com about the outing or sponsorship possibilities. More information about the event can also be obtained at www.stlaurence.com

Audiences will enjoy seeing familiar characters on stage asking for crowd participation, according to a library publicity blurb.

The fun continues until the wise woman closes her book and says “The end.”

• “Pizza & Pages” starts at 6 p.m. Monday, May 1. Readers are invited to drop in and join a casual conversation and discuss the most recent book they have read while munching on hot pizza and picking up a few new titles to take home.

• “Savvy Plant Shopping” begins at 6:30 p.m. Thursday, May 4. Get ready for Mother’s Day and summer gardening with tips on how to select the healthiest plants and discover the secrets from veteran plant shopper Deb Terrill. Learn when to shop, how to shop, and where to find your best garden.

The library’s “Reading Without Walls Challenge” continues through month’s end.

All are invited to join this newly launched, nationwide reading program celebrating diverse reading. Inspired by the National Ambassador for Young People’s Literature, Gene Luen Yang, the program encourages young readers to read outside their comfort zone and challenges them to read:

• A book about a character who doesn’t look or live like them.

• A book about a topic they don’t know much about.

• A book in a format that they don’t normally read for fun.

More information about the challenge may be obtained at the Youth Services desk.

Also, there are several clubs that meet weekly at the library, such as the Needle Club (for knitting and crocheting), Scrabble Club and Mah Jongg Cub. Members and interested patrons are asked to call ahead for times and dates.

LIBRARY NOTES Orland Park Public Library hosts ‘Fire and Freedom’ The Orland Park Public Library, 14921 S. Ravinia, will host “Fire and Freedom: Food and Enslavement in Early America” a national traveling exhibit, from May 8 to June 16. For information on all library programs and services, call (708) 428-5100.

The six-banner traveling exhibition uses George Washington’s Mount Vernon home as a specific example of how meals reveal how power is exchanged between and among different peoples, races, genders and classes. The exhibition was produced by the National Library of Medicine and the National Institutes of Health, with research assistance provided by the staff at The Washington Library at George Washington’s Mount Vernon.

Collection materials, mostly from the 18th century, show connections between food, botany, health and housekeeping.

Several events associated with the exhibition will be held, starting with “Black-Eyed Peas: A Symbolic Cuisine,” set for 7 p.m. Wednesday, May 10. “Eat poor that day, eat rich the rest of the year” is an old Southern expression about

eating a dish of Hoppin’ John on New Year’s Day. Tradition has it that eating black-eyed peas with other cultural fixings at the stroke of midnight on New Year’s Day would bring good fortune for the rest of the year. The program is an original tale by professional storyteller Patricia “Serenity” Redd that features historical anecdotes laced with lore in a cultural celebration.

Several programs added at Palos Heights Library A slate of activities for the week ahead has been announced at the Palos Heights Public Library, 12501 S. 71st Ave. For more information or to register for a program, call (708) 448-1473.

• In the Week of the Young Child, the Children’s Theatre of Western Springs Presents “Storyville” at 1 p.m. Saturday, April 29. The one-act family-focused production opens with a wise woman carrying a large book.

She opens it and addresses the audience. While her stories are different, they all begin with “Once upon a time” and end with characters living happily ever after.

The problem is, all the characters want to tell their story at once.

Photo by Joe Boyle

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

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

We had one correct answer last week, and we have one correct answer this week as well. Chrystine Busch, a resident of Palos Heights, has the correct answer this time. She noted that last week’s quiz photo was Marrs-Meyers American Legion Post 991, 11001 S. Depot, Worth.

The Marrs-Meyer Post has many active members. During the Lenten season leading up to Easter, they served fish meals on Fridays for community residents. Before Christmas, members of the post and auxiliary sponsor a drive to provide food and clothing for families.

They also provide toys for kids to help make the holiday season brighter for the less fortunate. They also hold another drive that provides baskets of food for the less fortunate at Thanksgiving.

Organic gardening session set for Palos Park Library An organic gardening workshop is set for 7 p.m. Thursday, May 18 at the Palos Park Public Library, 12330 S. Forest Glen Boulevard.

Participants will learn how to grow fresh, healthy fruits and vegetables.

Participants also will learn how to start and maintain a compost pile, how to start plants from seed, and keep weeds and bugs out using chemical-free methods.

Different methods of gardening such as square-foot, companion, intensive and container will also be discussed.

For details, call (708) 448-1530.

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8 Thursday, April 27, 2017

The Regional News

Author to speak at Lake Katherine Author Dennis Downes will headline a new nature and literature festival in Palos Heights on Saturday, April 29th.

Downes, 65, author of “Native American Trail Marker Trees: Marking Paths Through the Wilderness,” will speak at 11 a.m. at Lake Katherine Nature Center & Botanic Gardens, 7402 W. Lake Katherine Drive. He will also demonstrate the ritual of turning a young oak sapling into a trail marker tree.

Traditionally, Native Americans used trail-marker trees to navigate through dense forest. The trees are altered while they are young and supple to achieve a permanent and distinctive bend in the trunk. They can be found throughout North America.

Downes, from Antioch, has spent 35 years studying trail-marker trees and has visited 42 states for his work.

“The history of trail-marker trees is important as it was almost lost to common knowledge,” Downes said. “It’s an ingenious form of land and water navigation used by all the tribes of the Great Lakes region and beyond. The trees were used to guide them off the main trails to things that human beings needed, such as mineral and copper deposits, as well as medicinal plants. Some of the trails led them to ancestral and ceremonial sites. They also marked portage routes that were extremely important and useful in the Great Lakes region.”

The author’s appearance is one of the attractions at the Nature & Literature Festival at Lake Katherine, which will take place from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday.

Also at Saturday’s event, Palos Heights children’s author Jean Gnap will debut two children’s books.

• “Will Old Rusty Ever Get To Go To The Classic Car Show?” is the story of an antique car fulfilling a dream. It is based on the annual Classic Car Show held each July along the Harlem Avenue business district in Palos Heights. “Old Rusty” is dedicated to chairman Bob Starzyk and the Classic Car Committee.

• “Little Turtle Gets Lost” is a tribute to the late Mayor Eugene Simpson for his vision and efforts creating Lake Katherine. It celebrates the 25th anniversary of Lake Katherine and thanks the staff and volunteers. The story unfolds as Little Turtle Math Help

Math Enrichment

COMMUNITY NOTES Palos Twp. to aid with tax appeals Palos Township residents have until May 3 to file a property assessment appeal, township Assessor Robert E. Maloney has announced, adding that township staff will assist residents with applications until May 2 at headquarters, 10802 S. Roberts Road, Palos Hills. This allows one additional day for the appeals to reach county

offices by the May 3 deadline.

Assistance is available 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. weekdays. For details, phone (708) 598-4418.

McCord sets workshops on perennial gardens A workshop on designing perennial gardens is set for 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. Wednesday, May 3 at the McCord Gallery and Cultural Center, 9602 West Creek

Road, Palos Park.

Participants are asked to bring a photo and measurements of their outdoor space and receive advice from an expert.

The workshop will be repeated from 6 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, May 16.

Workshop fee is $30 for McCord members and $35 for non-members. Space is limited.

Reservations may be made by calling (708) 671-0648.

Supplied photo

Author Dennis Downes with a Native American trail-marker tree.

thinks the lake is too noisy, with fish flopping, bees buzzing, frogs croaking, dragonflies zooming, and he seeks to find a quieter home. Does he come to realize that home is the best and probably safest place to be?

• “The Puppy Who Wanted To Be A Boy,” Gnap’s first book, will join “Old Rusty” and “Little Turtle” at the event.

Other highlights at the festival include writing booths, a create-a-poem wall, author and photography exhibits, art projects for children and food vendors.

A literary-themed hayride adventure, narrated by Jeannine Kacmar from the Palos Heights Public Library, will investigate Native American myths that give meaning to the world around us.

The festival is sponsored by Lake Katherine and the Palos Heights Public Library. Admission is free.

For more information, phone (708) 361-1873.

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SPORTS The Regional News • The Reporter

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

Thursday,March April 5, 27,2015 2017 Thursday,

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

CCL Blue season officially sworn in

By Jeff Vorva Sports Editor

A fan arrived at the St. Laurence/Mt. Carmel baseball game at Haggerty Field in Chicago a little late on Saturday morning.

He looked and then squinted at the scoreboard, which showed that St. Laurence had scored nine runs in the top of the first inning.

“Holy (deleted)!” he said. “Is that NINE runs?”

That reaction came moments after one of the Mt. Carmel players walked off the field in disgust and shouted a dark oath of his own.

Now that’s putting the blue in the Chicago Catholic League Blue.

The powerhouse league got off to a wild start, which included St. Laurence’s shocking 11-1, five-inning, slaughter-rule victory as well as Brother Rice’s 16-1 slaughter-rule victory over Loyola in Wilmette and St. Rita’s 2-0 victory over three-time defending Illinois High School Association Class 4A state champ Providence.

There will likely be more cussing in anger and amazement before this season is done. After Photo by Jeff Vorva all, the stakes and emotions are St. Laurence catcher Matt McCormick celebrates with Zach Verta (No. 7) after Verta hit a first-inning grand slam in the Vikings’ 11-1, five-inning high in a league that arguably shocker over Mt. Carmel.

CCL BLUE’S FORAY IN 4A For the past eight seasons, at least one Chicago Catholic League Blue baseball team made it to the Illinois High School Association state championship game in Class 4A seven times and two have made it twice: 2009: St. Rita second place 2010: St. Rita second 2011: Providence second 2012: None 2013: Mt. Carmel first 2014: Providence first, St. Rita second 2015: Providence first, Mt. Carmel second 2016: Providence first

has had the most success in state play in recent years. In seven of the past eight years, the Class 4A state championship game has seen either one or two CCL Blue teams participate.

Another wild year appears to be in store, if Saturday is any indication.

The preseason rankings from the Prep Baseball Report website saw Brother Rice as the See CCL, Page 3

A couple of publicity hounds Two men who publicize HS and college athletes have their moment to shine

By Jason Maholy Correspondent

Rob Huizenga hesitates to call himself a runner.

Heck, he admits he’s not even an athlete, and that he never has been an athlete.

Joe McCurdy also claims he’s not a runner, at least in the competitive sense.

Both men, however, will run farther on May 7 than likely the vast majority of adults run in an entire year. Huizenga, the assistant athletics director/sports information director at Saint Xavier University, will run in the Southwest Half Marathon, which will be held for the 10th year in Palos Heights. McCurdy, the assistant principal at Oak Lawn Community High School, will participate in the event’s 10K run.

That’s 13.1 miles for Huizenga and 6.2 for McCurdy, and both have been training for the past couple of months as they prep for the races. So, despite their objections, many people might refer to them as runners.

“I’d hate to call myself a runner,” said Huizenga, who considers himself to be far from the company of the Cougar athletes about whom he spends much of his working life writing about and publicizing.

Huizenga, of Frankfort, started running about 10 years ago — not that he had intended to do so.

“It kind of happened by accident,” he said. “My

wife (Jade) was training for the Detroit Marathon, and I started just doing some runs with her, and I kind of liked it.”

He ran, for at least most of the courses, in two marathons before reassessing after his wife’s obstetrician told him “that’s just stupid.”

“He told me, ‘You’re just going to beat your body up’ — that no one should run that much,” Huizenga said. “Here I was trying to do something healthy and he’s telling me I’m stupid for doing it.”

Since limiting his endeavors to the Southwest event beginning in 2011, he has a regularly irregular running regimen that spans from late winter through summer. The schedule is ideal both timewise, and for maintaining a healthy weight during the spring and summer. Huizenga, 39, is a selfdescribed “foodie,” and by burning calories via running he is able to keep off the pounds while still enjoying his guilty pleasures.

“I like to eat, but as you get older it’s harder to keep the pounds off when you have an appetite like mine,” he said. “I wanted to find some way to still eat the foods I like to eat and live the lifestyle I like to live, but not gain a ton of weight and still stay relatively healthy and be active. So, running kind of fit the bill.”

Like Huizenga, one McCurdy’s duties as assistant principal is writing about and publicizing students at Oak Lawn, including athletes.

The Orland Park resident has run in two 5K

Submitted photo

Joe McCurdy, posing with his daughter, Meghan, at the Sully Shuffe, plans on running his first 10K run on May 7.

races, including Oak Lawn High’s annual Sully Shuffle, but the Southwest will be the longest course he has attempted to complete.

“I’m up for the challenge,” he said. “I just like to exercise, and thought it would be a good way to kick off the summer. It’s good to have goals and to have something to look at on the calendar to keep

Submitted photo

Rob Huizenga accepts accolades from his family during last year’s Southwest Half Marathon.

you going. I thought it would put me in position where I’d have to stay in shape during the winter months in order to run a 10K at the beginning of May.’’ McCurdy might not consider himself much of a See RUNNERS, Page 3

ST. LAURENCE BOYS BASKETBALL COACHING CHANGES

Jim Maley (front) resigned as St. Laurence’s boys basketball coach for another job and Jim Sexton (seated on the last chair on the right) will take over.

Maley heading to Conant while top assistant Sexton takes over Vikings

By Jeff Vorva Sports Editor

Jim Maley has big shoes to fill.

So does Jim Sexton.

Maley stepped down as St. Laurence boys basketball coach last week to reportedly accept the job at Conant High School in Hoffman Estates and was immediately replaced by his assistant coach, Sexton, the school announced Friday.

Maley will take over for retiring Tom McCormack, who coached at Conant for 31 years, winning 573 games and 13 regional titles. Maley coached the Vikings three years

Photo by Jeff Vorva

and posted a 40-50 record. While that record won’t get him into any Halls of Fame, he provided a threeyear spark after the program went 51-137 the previous seven years. He also will miss a chance to coach one of the strongest sophomore classes at the school in recent memory.

“This is a very bittersweet moment for me,” said Maley. “I absolutely love St. Laurence, my players, my students and the people I work with. While I’m excited for the next opportunity, I’m saddened to leave. However, the program is in great hands.

“Hiring Jimmy as an assistant was

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one of the best moves I’ve made. His passion, knowledge, and basketball pedigree will make him an excellent head coach. I truly believe that he, the returning players and coaching staff will take another step forward and become a force in the Catholic League. While I’m no longer the coach, I will be a huge fan of him, the program and the school.”

Perhaps the biggest accomplishment in the Maley era came in 2016, when the 13th-seeded Vikings finished fourth in the Chicago Catholic League Tournament.

See ST. LAURENCE, Page 3

2

Section 2 Thursday, April 27, 2017

The Regional News - The Reporter

CHICAGO FIRE ANALYSIS

Road miseries continue for the Fire

By Jeff Vorva Sports Editor

The Chicago Fire has two stretches this season in which it plays three straight Major League Soccer league games on the road.

The team started the first three-game road stretch on a bad note, dropping a 3-1 decision to Toronto FC at BMO Field on Friday night.

With acquisitions of star players such as Bastian Schweinsteiger and Nemanja Nikolic, the Fire has a chance to be a playoff contender. But if the team is going to secure one of the six postseason slots in the Eastern Conference, it needs to win on the road. Thus far, the Fire is

0-2-1 away from Toyota Park and has been outscored 8-2 in those matches.

The Fire, which came into the game with a two-game winning streak, was outplayed most of the night by Toronto (2-1-4) and was shut out until David Accam came off the bench and scored his second goal of the season in the 88th minute.

But it was too late, as Sebastian Giovinco picked up two goals and Eriq Zavaleta had a header get by Fire goalie Jorge Bava to put their team up by a trio of goals.

“Obviously it’s a hard loss for us,’’ Fire coach Veljko Paunovic said. “We believe we played well until the first Toronto goal was scored (at the 28-minute mark).

CHICAGO FIRE AT N.Y. RED BULLS WHEN: 6:30 p.m., Saturday WHERE: Red Bull Arena, Harrison, New Jersey FIRE’S RECORD: 3-2-2 NY RECORD: 4-3-1 NOTEWORTHY: The Red Bulls have an 18-game unbeaten streak at home. NY’s Alex Muyl scored what turned out to be the game-winning goal two weeks in a row.

We also believe that we were developing our plan of how we wanted to play this game. Obviously the individual qualities of the players decided this game, but I’m happy with the performance otherwise — good ef-

RED STARS HOME OPENER

FOCUS ON AREA COLLEGE SPORTS

SXU honors many athletes

New name, new position, new success for Ertz

By Jeff Vorva Sports Editor

By Alison Moran Correspondent

The Chicago Red Stars’ newest attacking midfielder is a familiar friend who made her presence known midway through the first half of the home opener on Saturday at Toyota Park.

Thanks to a Red Stars defense that controlled the field for much of the game, the lone goal scored by this midfielder stood as the Red Stars earned their first shutout of the season with a 1-0 victory over FC Kansas City. It gave the team a 1-1-0 record and its first three points of the 2017 National Women’s Soccer League season.

Julie Ertz, previously known as Julie Johnston before her marriage, used to be a worldclass defender on both the Red Stars and the US Women’s National Team. But she earned the Red Stars’ first goal of the season, as an attacking midfielder.

What was she doing so far upfield?

Coach Rory Dames said she had suffered a right knee sprain during the Red Stars’ loss in Houston on April 15 and was out until Thursday’s practice.

“I wanted Julie on the field for her leadership, while not moving Dani (Colaprico) and Vanessa (DiBernardo) out of position,’’ said Dames. “Also, our lines had remained stagnant for the past two seasons, so it was a good opportunity to try something new.”

The goal came in the game’s 21st minute. Playing midfield, Sofia Huerta took the ball toward the end line and crossed to Ertz along the six-yard box.

Ertz slotted the ball past Kansas City’s veteran goalkeeper Nicole Barnhart for her first Red Stars goal since 2014.

fort, played until the end, which is what we preach. Obviously today wasn’t that good with the result, with our overall performance we have to improve, we have to look to the positives of this match.’’

This was Schweinsteiger’s first loss in a Fire uniform since the team obtained the German star March 31.

“It was a strange game,’’ he said. “I thought we started quite Photo by Jeff Vorva well, we had a goal that was David Accam scored the Chicago Fire’s lone goal late in a 3-1 loss at offside, but we had some good Toronto on Friday. chances in the beginning. Then The next two opponents on we made some easy mistakes. some things to make it better…

Of course if we would’ve scored we have to keep going, train the road are the New York Red a goal or if we got the penalty hard, prepare for the next match. Bulls (4-3-1) and LA Galaxy, then I think the game would’ve It’s sad that we couldn’t win, but which is a surprising 2-5-1 after been changed, but that was not there was something missing. I finishing third in the Western Conference last season. the case. We have to work on hope we find our way back.’’

Photo by Melissa Tamez

Samantha Johnson, left, congratulates Red Stars teammate Julie Ertz after Ertz scored what turned out to be the lone goal of Saturday’s game against Kansas City.

RED STARS AT PORTLAND WHEN: 3 p.m., Saturday WHERE: Providence Park, Portland RED STARS RECORD: 1-1-0 PORTLAND’S RECORD: 1-1-0 NOTEWORTHY: Portland finished first in the National Women’s Soccer League regular season but was upset in the semifinals of the postseason tournament. The Thorns suffered a 1-0 loss to expansion team North Carolina on Saturday.

“It was a great feeling,” an ecstatic Ertz said after the game.

“To help the team, and then to get a shutout, was fantastic.”

Of her partnership with Huerta, she said, “We’ve had that connection since college (Santa Clara University), and to look up and see that she made the cross and I could finish it for her was amazing. We played the No.

9 and No. 10 spots in college, and since then, we’ve always held each other accountable on the field.”

Scoring an insurance goal, though, proved impossible.

Kansas City, and Barnhart especially, showed why they were two-time NWSL champions in 2014 and 2015 in denying goals.

In the second half, Kansas City outshot the Red Stars 8-6, but none went past Red Stars goalkeeper Alyssa Naeher.

The Red Stars travel to Portland to face the Thorns on Saturday and return home on May 6 at 3 p.m. for Lifetime’s Game of the Week against the Houston Dash.

Retired USWNT star Julie Foudy will host a pregame session and sign copies of her new book, “Choose to Matter: Being Courageously and Fabulously YOU’’.

FOCUS ON COMMUNITY SPORTS

SXU baseball to host a Salute to Service event Saturday In addition to its Senior Day ceremony between games, the Saint Xavier University baseball team will also co-host a Salute to Service event in collaboration with SXU’s Student Veteran Alliance on Saturday, during its Chicagoland Collegiate Athletic Conference home doubleheader with Roosevelt University at Richard R. Ferrell Memorial Field in Chicago.

The first game of the doubleheader is scheduled for a noon start. The Salute to Service event will feature the Marines Color Guard presenting the National Anthem before the first game, a postgame cookout at the field with all veterans able to take part for free and other activities designed to pay tribute to all military veterans and those currently in service.

“We owe so much to all of our veterans and members of our military for their service and putting their lives on the line for the benefit of our country,” said Saint Xavier University baseball coach Rocco Mossuto. “When one of our players, Dan McLaughlin (who is also the president of the Student Veteran Alliance), asked about co-hosting this event during one of our home games this season, it was a no-brainer. It is an honor to host any type of event that recognizes our service men and women for the sacrifices they make to help ensure our freedoms.”

SXU host girls hoops camp

Openings are still available for Saint Xavier University women’s basketball coach Bob Hallberg’s annual girls basketball camp, which runs from June 19-23 and will be open to girls between the ages of seven and 15.

The camp will consist of a single week-long session, which runs daily from 1:30 to 4:00 p.m. The camp will be held in the Shannon Center on the Chicago campus of Saint Xavier University.

Participants will be grouped according to age and ability, and Hallberg will actively teach each day. SXU

assistant coaches and players will also be on hand to instruct campers. All participants will receive a camp T-shirt. Cost for the basketball camp is $135 for the session.

Enrollment for the June camp is on a first-come, first-serve basis. Applications are available at the SXU Athletics Department located in the Shannon Center or online at www.sxucougars.com under the Summer Camps link. For more information or questions regarding the camp, contact Laura Kurzeja at 773-298-3785.

Oak Lawn honors Haubenreiser

Oak Lawn Community High School’s baseball program will honor Declan and Kenadie Haubenreiser, children of Oak Lawn Community High School alumna Mary Haubenreiser, class of 1979.

Mary lost her battle with breast cancer and her twins are now being raised by their aunt, Janet Haubenreiser Meyers (class of 1991), who is a current Instructional Technology coach.

The Spartan baseball program will recognize Declan and Kenadie on May 4 when it takes on Thornton Fractional North. Spartan baseball players will wear shirts honoring Mary at the game. Shirts are available to the community for $20 each and can be purchased through head coach Bill Gerny at wgerny@olchs.org.

Youth sizes are available (small through large) as well as adult (small through 3 XL). Smilin’ Clydes will be selling hot dogs and former SSC Conference Player of the Year Boo Quillin (‘15), a fan favorite of Declan and Kenadie, will be on hand to catch the ceremonial first pitch.

Mary was a dedicated three-sport athlete who cultivated a love of sports in her twins. Declan and Kennedy have been surrounded by Spartans all their lives. These 8-year-old twins grew up in a house right across the street from the varsity baseball field and their large Irish-American clan also consists of numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins who graduated from Oak Lawn Community High School.

— We welcome community news at sports@regionalpublishing.com

Senior women’s golfer Taylor Thompson and senior football player Matt Johnson were named St. Xavier University’s Female and Male Student Athletes of the Year at Thursday’s awards banquet at the Shannon Center.

Thompson, a Galesburg native who is majoring in business, was named the Chicagoland Collegiate Athletic Conference (CCAC) Women’s Golfer of the Week last week as well as winning three different individual tournament titles this year between the fall and spring seasons.

Johnson, a Rockford native, is also finishing up a degree in business, was a standout in the secondary for the SXU football team as a first-team selection on the 2016 Mid-States Football Association (MSFA) All-Midwest League Team as well as a first-team selection on the 2016 CoSIDA Academic All-America College Division Football Team, a 2016 Daktronics-NAIA Scholar-Athlete and the 2016 MSFA All-Academic Team.

A number of medals were handed out to athletes who excelled in the classroom.

Gold medals were awarded to student-athletes with cumulative grade-point averages between 3.75 and 4.00 (on a 4.00 scale).

Southwest Regional Publishing area gold medal winners included: Anthony Chimera (baseball, freshman, St. Laurence), Sierra Downey (women’s cross country and track, junior, Stickney/Morton College/Morton West), Franchesca Graffeo (softball, senior, Shepard), Ronald Luce (football, senior, Oak Lawn Community),

Supplied photo

Matt Johnson and Taylor Thompson were named student athletes of the year at St. Xavier University.

Matthew McKenzie (baseball, junior, Marist), Kathleen Miller (women’s volleyball, senior, Queen of Peace), Quinn Niego (men’s basketball, junior, Brother Rice), Alexis Nowak (dance, junior, Palos Hills/Stagg), Dan O’Keefe (men’s volleyball, senior, Evergreen Park/St. Rita), Robin Prokaski (baseball, senior, Orland Park/Sandburg), Jill Siemiawski (women’s cross country and track, sophomore, Evergreen Park High School), Carolina Slaby (women’s soccer, freshman, Shepard) and Kamil Szczesniak (men’s soccer, senior, Reavis).

Area silver medalists (3.50 to 3.74 GPA) were Fuad Abuzerr (men’s soccer, junior, Worth/ Shepard), Jenna Haase (softball, sophomore, Evergreen Park), Aaron Kummer (men’s volleyball, freshman, Marist), Peter London (men’s soccer, senior, Bridgeview, St. Laurence), Mark Martin (baseball, sophomore, Evergreen Park), Casey McMahon (women’s basketball, junior, Palos Park, Stagg), Stephen Szajek (men’s volleyball, junior, Worth, Shepard) and Dominic Villa (men’s volleyball, senior, Mount Carmel).

Bronze medalists (3.25 to 3.49 GPA) were Rachal Brooks (women’s cross country and track, junior, Chicago/Mother McAuley), Jocelyn Camacho (women’s cross country add track, junior, Summit/Argo Community), Joe Cosenza (football, sophomore, Oak Lawn Community), Alondra Delfin (women’s cross country and track, junior, Shepard), Jeremy Dryier (baseball, senior, Shepard), Josh Hettiger (football, freshman, Oak Lawn/Richards), Courtney Joyce (volleyball, sophomore, Chicago/Mother McAuley), Khalfani King (football, junior, Chicago/De La Salle), Caroline Kuzel (softball, junior, Orland Park/Sandburg), Kevin Lonergan (football, senior, Oak Lawn Community), Moises Lopez (men’s volleyball, senior, Oak Lawn Community), Abdul Mahdi (football, junior, Chicago/Bogan), Nicole Maier (women’s cross country & track, senior, Burbank/Reavis), Alex Martinez (football, freshman, Burbank/St. Laurence), Emily Mayer (volleyball, freshman, Chicago/Mother McAuley), Kevin Mayer (men’s volleyball, senior, Chicago/Brother Rice), Salma Rodriguez (women’s cross country and track, freshman, Lyons/Morton West), Mike Sheehy (football, senior, Oak Lawn/Brother Rice), Victor Solis (men’s cross country and track, senior, Cicero/Morton College/Morton East).

Trinity Christian College

Women’s track: The Trolls finished ninth out of 17 teams in the Concordia Cougar Invitational. The 4x400 team of Ashley Jourdan, Anna Spotts, Katie Moran and Carissa White won in 4 minutes, 20.71 seconds. Jourdan finished second in the 1500.

Area duo making history on Dominican volleyball team

By Jason Maholy Correspondent

Two athletes who spent their prep days honing their skills at area high schools are among the members of a collegiate men’s volleyball program that Friday will attempt to advance to the national semifinals in just its fourth year of existence.

Joe Marchese and Patrick Bradford, graduates of Sandburg and Marist, respectively, are members of the Dominican University men’s volleyball team. Dominican is the first NCAA Division III men’s volleyball program in Illinois, and is now the first to qualify for the nationals as it is one of the final eight teams standing in the 2017 national tournament.

Dominican, ranked No. 6 in the country by the American Volleyball Coaches’ Association, is riding a seven-match winning streak into its national quarterfinal contest against Stevens Institute of Technology. The Stars and Ducks will square off at 2 p.m. Friday in Springfield, Mass.

Dominican has not played since topping Mt. St. Joseph in four games on April 15 to win the program’s first Midwest Collegiate Volleyball League title.

“It’ll be exciting,” Marchese, a senior from Orland Park, said of what will be the program’s first national tournament game.

“I’m just waiting for that to come, already; I think everyone sort of is. I think our whole team is ready to go.”

Bradford

Marchese

The game carries special significance for Marchese, who is one of the original recruits for a program that played it first season in 2014. A big reason he chose to attend Dominican was to be part of the foundation of a new program, he said.

“It was really exciting to start building a tradition like this,” Marchese said. “It’s the best experience I could have asked for.’’

Dominican’s players came into this season thinking they had the potential to compete for a national championship, but the team’s dominance has exceeded Marchese’s expectations. The Stars (26-2) dropped their opening match of the season to New York University in three games, then rattled off 19 straight wins before dropping falling to Mt. St. Joseph.

Marchese attributed much of the team’s success to the fact its 12 senior have been with the program from the start.

“We know who’s going to take what ball, who likes a set a certain way, and who’s going to serve where,” he said. “Everyone has a role and everyone knows what they have to do.

“We all came in as 18 freshman our first year — we were

18 freshmen guy volleyball players,” he added. “We were the first ones on campus, and we all hung out together, we didn’t know anyone else. We’re a family outside the gym, inside the gym, in the classroom and in the weight room, when we’re doing yoga, when we’re hanging out. I feel like that’s a good advantage because we’re really playing for each other and not just playing for ourselves.”

Bradford, a freshman who hails from Chicago’s Beverly community, was sold on Dominican because he knew the program was on the rise.

Bradford said that when he visited Dominican as a recruit, he quickly realized after talking to the team’s players that the squad was a close-knit group.

“They said we might still be building, but we’re building something very special here,” he said. “I talked to other schools, and just the vibe I got from here was the best, and I just knew the team chemistry we had here, that if we all worked together as unit there’s nothing that can stop us.”

Bradford doesn’t see the court much, but he is patiently awaiting his opportunity to carry on the legacy of the program’s 12 seniors. He is for now simply enjoying soaking up the experience of playing for a team that is among the best in the nation.

“I’m really just trying to take it in, see how the older guys handle themselves in certain situations,” he said. “Just being on the bench, it’s so electric, every play I feel like we’re screaming something.”

The Regional News - The Reporter

Thursday, April 27, 2017 Section 2

3

Baker gets a jump (or several) on the weekend

L

Photo by Jeff Vorva

Brother Rice’s Jimmy Baker gets ready for an attack against Glenbard West on Saturday in the Smack Attack championship. Baker played volleyball and jumped for the track team over the weekend.

ast week, Jason Maholy wrote a front page story in the RegionalReporter on Brother Rice’s Jimmy Baker and how the senior is trying to play both volleyball and participate on the track and field team.

Now for a quick update.

Between Baker, track coach Tom Wazio and volleyball coach Dan Dwyer, they have all worked out a schedule that everyone can live with. Wazio said that if there is a big volleyball tournament on a weekend the track team has a meet, he agreed to let Baker play volleyball.

On Friday, there was the first round of a big volleyball tournament — the Smack Attack. It’s one of the best in Illinois. And a portion of it was played at Brother Rice. That night, the Crusaders track also hosted a pretty big track meet — the Rice Relays.

This time Dwyer agreed to allow Baker to miss the first match of the Smack Attack so that the kid could get some jumping in. Baker led his team with a 5-foot-8 high jump, was second with a 19-0.5 long jump and was second in the

No. 1-ranked team in the state with St. Laurence third. Things got shuffled around a bit after Rice went on the road and out of state and suffered some losses against powerhouse national teams in the USA Baseball National High School Tournament, falling to ninth in the rankings.

St. Laurence took over the No. 1 spot.

Heading into Saturday, CCL Blue teams had played a crossover game against each of seven CCL White teams, which counted in their league record, and the eight Blue teams combined for a 50-6-1 record.

Brother Rice (which went 21-0 in league play last year), Mt. Carmel and Loyola each posted 7-0 marks against White teams while St. Laurence, Providence and St. Rita were 6-1. St. Francis was 5-1-1 and Marmion 6-2.

Now it’s time to mix it up against each other for 14 games, and Saturday was just the beginning.

The St. Laurence triumph was the most surprising, as the No. 1 team in the state according to

Runners

Continued from Page 1 a runner, but he is no slouch when it comes to physical fitness, and he enjoys challenging himself. He stays in shape through a combination of running, swimming, spin classes, and stair climbing at Swallow Cliff Woods.

“My training (for the 10K) consists of running on a treadmill in my basement,’’ he said.

“But when the weather is nice enough to run outside, one of my favorite places to run is Swallow Cliff. I’m not a big treadmill fan.

St. Laurence

Continued from Page 1 Sexton is a Brother Rice graduate and Evergreen Park native who earned the Regional/Reporter Player of the Year honor in 1993 and 1994. He played college basketball at Creighton University and was a member of the first-ever NCAA tournament team at UIC. In high school, he was a three-time All-Catholic League player and earned AllState honors his senior year.

He is the 10th boys basketball coach in St. Laurence history. He served as assistant varsity coach and director of player development on the Vikings basketball staff for the past two seasons.

Sexton co-founded Beyond The Arc Academy, a basketball club in Evergreen Park that coaches and trains more than 250 boys and girls grade school basketball players.

“I’m privileged to have the opportunity to work with a great administration, group of coaches and, most importantly, group of student-athletes at St. Laurence,” said Sexton. “I truly appreciate the faith President Joe Martinez, Principal Jim Muting and Athletic Director Tim

Tweet of the week Second guessing coaches and managers is common in the Twitter world, but this rip job is unique.

Last week, a Tweeter wasn’t happy with a St. Xavier University baseball loss and wrote: “Poor coaching decision cost the cougs in a 5-4 loss game 1. Gotta go get em game 2 @gosxucougars.’’

The kicker? The man who wrote the tweet was SXU coach Rocco Mossuto.

He was ripping himself.

Ratings of the weak

The National Women’s Soccer League was thrilled with its TV deal with the Lifetime Network for a Game of the Week all season.

But the Awful Announcing website

Crusaders take 2nd to two-time defending state champs

By Jeff Vorva Sports Editor

Photo by Jeff Vorva

Continued from Page 1

triple jump with a 39-4. The Crusaders’ three jumping teams scored 26 points to help Brother Rice win the 10-team event with 79.5 points. St. Laurence was second with 73 followed by Marist with 60 and Evergreen Park with 55.5.

After track, he made it back to the gym and helped his team win a pool match over Cathedral from Indiana.

The next day, the third-seeded Crusaders played three matches and finished second.

“I had a personal best in the high jump and my long jump… I really didn’t do that well,” Baker said. “In the triple jump, I jumped and headed right to the volleyball match with about five minutes to spare. It was a lot of fun.’’

is reporting awful ratings for the first Game of the Week on April 15.

The Portland Thorns and Orlando Pride played in the debut game and an estimated 82,000 watched the match.

Interestingly, the pregame show drew 131,000 viewers. What could be more captivating about a pregame show than the match itself?

Nothing.

The theory is that the showing of a dusty old movie, “Two Weeks Notice,” starring Hugh Grant and Sandra Bullock, may have helped. The 2002 movie drew 237,000 viewers and some continued to watch the pregame show for a while before they realized Grant and Bullock were not coming back on the screen.

Even worse news for the league: The Game of the Week picked up fewer viewers than the 118,000 folks who watched Skip Bayless on ‘The Undisputed” the day before on FS1, and Bayless has been a laughingstock in the ratings game since bolting ESPN.

BROTHER RICE SMACK ATTACK

St. Laurence sophomore pitcher Marius Balandas bears down in his victory over Mt. Carmel on Saturday.

CCL

JEFF VORVA Making the Extra Point

His Friday fun sure beat last year at this time. In an opening-round Smack Attack battle with Payton High School at Brother Rice, he injured his left knee and ankle.

“I can’t believe it’s been a year,” he said.

PBR dominated against the No. 4 Caravan. The Vikings scored nine in the first with the big blow coming via Zach Verta’s grand slam over the right-center fence. Matt McCormick drove in a pair of runs while Tim Molloy, Tommy Farrell and John Peterson also brought runs home in the first.

That gave sophomore pitcher Marius Balandis a lot of breathing room, and he responded by allowing a run on three hits with seven strikeouts to improve to 5-0. The Vikings’ pitching depth is even more dangerous this season with his presence.

Ryan Kutt had three doubles and four RBI and was the winning pitcher as Brother Rice whipped Loyola. Pat Mayo added three hits and drove in three runs to give the Crusaders their 10th straight win.

St. Rita’s Steve Washilweski shut out Providence in New Lenox.

There are plenty of huge games coming up in this league but it appears the two-game series between Brother Rice and St. Laurence on May 10 (in Chicago) and May 11 (in Burbank) could be the main event.

I don’t like it, but I do it because it keeps you in shape.”

He also has participated in a Hustle Up the Hancock, an annual event in which participants attempt to climb to the 52nd or 94th floors of the John Hancock Center. If he does well in the Southwest 10K, he might consider taking on a greater challenge.

“I’ve always been impressed by people who compete in marathons,” he said. “It would be nice to be able to run a marathon, I’m just a long way off from there.

But I would definitely, if the 10K goes well, be interested in doing a half marathon.”

Chandler have in me to continue to move St. Laurence basketball into prominence, not only in the Catholic League but in the state of Illinois. I would also like to thank coach Maley for putting the program in a positive place in which we can continue to build.”

“Viking Basketball has come a long way in recent seasons, and we are excited for coach Sexton to take us to the next level,” said Chandler. “With coach Sexton, we will be able to provide continuity with the program that will allow us to have a seamless transition. We thank coach Maley for putting the team on the right track the past three seasons and wish him the best in the future.”

Current fifth- through seventhgrade boys can meet Sexton at a free basketball clinic from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. Sunday. Students can sign up at www.stlaurence. com/clinics. For any questions about the clinic, contact Director of Admissions Joe Spano at jspano@stlaurence.com.

Maley is the second area boys coach to resign since the end of the season. Earlier, longtime Stagg coach John Daniels left to spend more time with his family, and his position has not been filled yet.

Glenbard West had one of the best seasons in Illinois boys volleyball history in 2016 when it finished 42-0 and did not lose a single set.

The Hilltoppers, the two-time defending Illinois High School Association state champs, will not have that dominant of a season in 2017 as they dropped a three-set war to Lake Park on April 8.

But don’t expect them to be an easy target. They had a dominant run in the Brother Rice-hosted Smack Attack Tournament, which included a 25-16, 25-14 victory over the Crusaders for the championship at the Shannon Center on the campus of St. Xavier University on Saturday.

The score was tied 12-12 in the first set before West (16-1 after the tournament) took over the match.

Brother Rice (18-5 heading into this week) was seeded third in the 24team tournament and reached the title match by knocking off second-seeded Glenbrook North. But the Crusaders ran into a wall in the title battle.

“This was the first time the offense didn’t show up,” said senior Jimmy Baker. “Everything else was good. We will have to figure out a way for our offense to score against teams that have better blocking.

But it was awesome to get into the championship.’’

Kyle Springer led the Crusaders with seven kills in the title match while Lewis University-bound middle hitter Joe Kenzinger added five.

Tom Kleist had eight digs.

Marist finished seventh, but senior Jack Berglind suffered a right knee injury in the middle of the first set in a 25-22, 25-21 win over Lincoln-Way West in the seventh-place match and did not return.

Photos by Jeff Vorva

Ryan Banky of Brother Rice gets off a kill attempt against Glenbard West on Saturday.

Marist senior Jack Berglind (33) sat out most the RedHawks’ seventh-place win over Lincoln-Way West after suffering a knee injury in the first set.

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4

Section 2 Thursday, April 27, 2017

The Regional News - The Reporter

Images from Stagg vs. Sandburg times three

By Jeff Vorva Sports Editor

Any time rivals Stagg and Sandburg play in any sport, there is heightened excitement.

On this day, it was heightened excitement

times three.

Stagg visited Sandburg on April 18 in boys tennis, baseball and softball.

Sandburg swept all three games/matches, but it wasn’t always easy.

The Eagles won the tennis match 4-3 with

Stagg’s Trevor Bumsted slides safely into second in the Chargers’ 9-8 loss at Sandburg on April 18.

Branden Comia gets a good swing off early against Stagg. He got a better swing off against the Chargers in the seventh when he hit a two-run homer to help give his team a 9-8 victory over the District 230 rival.

strong doubles performances leading the way.

On the baseball diamond, the wind was blowing out and the ball was flying. Branden Comia hit a two-run homer in the bottom of the seventh to give the Eagles a 9-8 victory in the first game in the SouthWest Suburban Blue season debut for

both teams.

In softball, there was a little more breathing room for the Eagles as they beat the Chargers 103.

Here are a few photos from the Stagg/Sandburg trifecta:

Stagg’s Michael Kaunas (left) congratulates Mike Tobin after Tobin cracked a home run against Sandburg in Orland Park.

Ryan Hampe of Sandburg picks up a foul ball against Stagg.

Two for two: Sandburg softball catcher Kaitlin Rusin signals to her teammates in a win over Stagg.

Sam Coffel of Sandburg gets ready for a pitch against Stagg on April 20. She had eight home runs in the Eagles’ first 17 games.

Sandburg’s Zach Marshall serves against Stagg on April 18.

Domas Dargis (left) and Bryan Jaski, Stagg’s No. 1 doubles team, change the score against Sandburg.

Photos by Jeff Vorva

Stagg junior Abby Minervini unloads with a pitch against Sandburg in Orland Park.

Sandburg’s Mostafa Reheem’s return barely clears the net against Stagg.

The Regional News - The Reporter

448-6161

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

For Sale

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT - CHANCERY DIVISION THE BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON FKA THE WATERFALL OLYMPIC MASTER FUND GRANTBANK OF NEW YORK, AS TRUSTEE FOR THE OR TRUST, SERIES II S/I/I BYLINE BANK F/K/A CERTIFICATEHOLDERS OF THE CWABS, INC., NORTH COMMUNITY BANK SUCCESSOR ASSET-BACKED CERTIFICATES, SERIES

BY MERGER WITH METROBANK SUCCES- 2007-8 SOR BY MERGER WITH METROPOLITAN Plaintiff, BANK AND TRUST COMPANY -v.

JOHN KAIM A/K/A JOHN A. KAIM, FIRSTSECURE Plaintiff, BANK AND TRUST CO., TRUST #1-138 DTD

3/26/96, UNKNOWN OWNERS AND NON-RE-v.- CORD CLAIMANTS, UNKNOWN BENEFICIALAURMEG SERVICES, L.L.C., JOSEPH P. RIES OF FIRSTSECURE BANK AND TRUST CO., DAVID, MARTIN VARASANEC, LOUIS MICELI, TRUST #1-138 DTD 3/26/96 VILLAGE OF OAK LAWN, VILLAGE OF JUSDefendants TICE, UNKNOWN OWNERS AND NONRECORD 14 CH 13588 CLAIMANTS 10749 SOUTH CHRISTA COURT PALOS HILLS,

IL Defendants 60465

NOTICE OF SALE 12 CH 38743 PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant 10114-16 S. PULASKI ROAD to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in Oak Lawn, IL 60453 the above cause on January 10, 2017, an agent for The Judicial Sales Corporation, will at 10:30 AM on NOTICE OF SALE – COUNT I May 30, 2017, at The Judicial Sales Corporation, One South Wacker Drive - 24th Floor, CHICAGO, PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that IL, 60606, sell at public auction to the highest pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale bidder, as set forth below, the following described entered in the above cause on April 11, 2017, an real estate: agent for The Judicial Sales Corporation, will at Commonly known as 10749 SOUTH CHRISTA 10:30 AM on May 17, 2017, at The Judicial Sales COURT, PALOS HILLS, IL 60465 Corporation, One South Wacker Drive - 24th Floor, Property Index No. 23-14-400-076-0000.

CHICAGO, IL, 60606, sell at public auction to the The real estate is improved with a white, brick, highest bidder, as set forth below, the following single family, two car attached garage. described real estate: Sale terms: 25% down of the highest bid by certified funds at the close of the sale payable to The Commonly known as 10114-16 S. PULASKI Judicial Sales Corporation. No third party checks ROAD, Oak Lawn, IL 60453 will be accepted. The balance in certified funds/or wire transfer, is due within twenty-four (24) hours.

Property Index No. 24-10-413-050-0000.

No fee shall be paid by the mortgagee acquiring the residential real estate pursuant to its credit bid The real estate is improved with a multi-family at the sale or by any mortgagee, judgment creditor, residence. or other lienor acquiring the residential real estate whose rights in and to the residential real estate Sale terms: 25% down of the highest bid by cerarose prior to the sale. The subject property is tified funds at the close of the sale payable to The subject to general real estate taxes, special asJudicial Sales Corporation. No third party checks sessments, or special taxes levied against said real will be accepted. The balance in certified funds/or wire transfer, is due within twenty-four (24) hours. estate and is offered for sale without any representation as to quality or quantity of title and without No fee shall be paid by the mortgagee acquiring the residential real estate pursuant to its credit bid at the recourse to Plaintiff and in \�AS IS\� condition. The sale is further subject to confirmation by the court. sale or by any mortgagee, judgment creditor, or other lienor acquiring the residential real estate whose Upon payment in full of the amount bid, the purchaser will receive a Certificate of Sale that will rights in and to the residential real estate arose prior to the sale. The subject property is subject entitle the purchaser to a deed to the real estate to general real estate taxes, special assessments, after confirmation of the sale. or special taxes levied against said real estate and The property will NOT be open for inspection is offered for sale without any representation as to and plaintiff makes no representation as to the quality or quantity of title and without recourse to condition of the property. Prospective bidders Plaintiff and in “AS IS� condition. The sale is further are admonished to check the court file to verify subject to confirmation by the court. all information.

If this property is a condominium unit, the purchasUpon payment in full of the amount bid, the er of the unit at the foreclosure sale, other than a purchaser will receive a Certificate of Sale that will mortgagee, shall pay the assessments and the entitle the purchaser to a deed to the real estate legal fees required by The Condominium Property after confirmation of the sale.

Act, 765 ILCS 605/9(g)(1) and (g)(4). If this property is a condominium unit which is part of a common The property will NOT be open for inspection and interest community, the purchaser of the unit at the plaintiff makes no representation as to the condition foreclosure sale other than a mortgagee shall pay of the property. Prospective bidders are admonthe assessments required by The Condominium ished to check the court file to verify all information. Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/18.5 (g-1).

IF YOU ARE THE MORTGAGOR (HOMEOWNIf this property is a condominium unit, the purchaser ER), YOU HAVE THE RIGHT TO REMAIN IN of the unit at the foreclosure sale, other than a mortPOSSESSION FOR 30 DAYS AFTER ENTRY OF gagee, shall pay the assessments and the legal AN ORDER OF POSSESSION, IN ACCORDANCE fees required by The Condominium Property Act, WITH SECTION 15-1701(C) OF THE ILLINOIS 765 ILCS 605/9(g)(1) and (g)(4). If this property MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE LAW. is a condominium unit which is part of a common You will need a photo identification issued by a govinterest community, the purchaser of the unit at the ernment agency (driver’s license, passport, etc.) in foreclosure sale other than a mortgagee shall pay order to gain entry into our building and the forethe assessments required by The Condominium closure sale room in Cook County and the same Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/18.5(g-1). identification for sales held at other county venues where The Judicial Sales Corporation conducts IF YOU ARE THE MORTGAGOR (HOMEforeclosure sales.

OWNER), YOU HAVE THE RIGHT TO REMAIN IN For information: Visit our website at service.atPOSSESSION FOR 30 DAYS AFTER ENTRY OF ty-pierce.com. between the hours of 3 and 5 pm.

AN ORDER OF POSSESSION, IN ACCORDANCE WITH SECTION 15-1701(C) OF THE ILLINOIS McCalla Raymer Pierce, LLC, Plaintiff’s Attorneys, One North Dearborn Street Suite 1300, CHICAGO, MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE LAW. IL 60602. Tel No. (312) 476-5500. Please refer to file number 8564.

You will need a photo identification issued by a government agency (driver’s license, passport, THE JUDICIAL SALES CORPORATION One South Wacker Drive, 24th Floor, Chicago, IL etc.) in order to gain entry into our building and the 60606-4650 (312) 236-SALE foreclosure sale room in Cook County and the same You can also visit The Judicial Sales Corporation at identification for sales held at other county venues where The Judicial Sales Corporation conducts www.tjsc.com for a 7 day status report of pending sales. foreclosure sales.

I720010 For information, contact Plaintiff’s attorney: LATIMER LEVAY FYOCK, LLC, 55 W MONROE SUITE 1100, Chicago, IL 60603, (312) 422-8000 Please refer to file number 96000-74.

For Sale 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 May 25, 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 C1412785.

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.

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.

I718841

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IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT - CHANCERY DIVISION WELLS FARGO BANK, N.A. Plaintiff, -v.INGA WIKAR A/K/A INGA GRIGAITE, TIMBERS IN PALOS CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION, RICHARD WIKAR A/K/A RICHARD WICKAR Defendants 15 CH 09191 8245 POPLAR LANE APT D PALOS HILLS, IL 60465 NOTICE OF SALE PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above cause on November 29, 2016, an agent for The Judicial Sales Corporation, will at 10:30 AM on May 30, 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 8245 POPLAR LANE APT D, PALOS HILLS, IL 60465 Property Index No. 23-23-200-021-1244.

The real estate is improved with a red brick, condo, attached one car garage.

Sale terms: 25% down of the highest bid by certified funds at the close of the sale payable to The Judicial Sales Corporation. No third party checks will be accepted. The balance in certified funds/or wire transfer, is due within twenty-four (24) hours. No fee shall be paid by the mortgagee acquiring the residential real estate pursuant to its credit bid at the sale or by any mortgagee, judgment creditor, or other lienor acquiring the residential real estate whose rights in and to the residential real estate arose prior to the sale. The subject property is subject to general real estate taxes, special assessments, or special taxes levied against said real estate and is offered for sale without any representation as to quality or quantity of title and without recourse to Plaintiff and in \�AS IS\� condition. The sale is further subject to confirmation by the court.

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

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

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

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

For information: Visit our website at service.atty-pierce.com. between the hours of 3 and 5 pm.

McCalla Raymer Pierce, LLC, Plaintiff’s Attorneys, One North Dearborn Street Suite 1300, CHICAGO, IL 60602. Tel No. (312) 476-5500. Please refer to file number 12186.

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.

I720014

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT - CHANCERY DIVISION WELLS FARGO BANK, N.A. Plaintiff, vs.

VALERIE L. BENNECKE-SLACK; EDWARD F. SLACK; STATE OF ILLINOIS Defendants, 17 CH 25 NOTICE OF SALE PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above entitled cause Intercounty Judicial Sales Corporation will on Tuesday, May 30, 2017 at the hour of 11 a.m. in their office at 120 West Madison Street, Suite 718A, Chicago, Illinois, sell at public auction to the highest bidder for cash, as set forth below, the following described mortgaged real estate: P.I.N. 23-02-308-013-0000.

Commonly known as 8525 West 91st Street, Hickory Hills, IL 60457.

The mortgaged real estate is improved with a single family residence. If the subject mortgaged real estate is a unit of a common interest community, the purchaser of the unit other than a mortgagee shall pay the assessments required by subsection (g-1) of Section 18.5 of the Condominium Property Act. Sale terms: 10% down by certified funds, balance, by certified funds, within 24 hours. No refunds. The property will NOT be open for inspection For information call Sales Department at Plaintiff’s Attorney, Manley Deas Kochalski, LLC, One East Wacker Drive, Chicago, Illinois 60601. (614) 220-5611.

16-034428 F2 INTERCOUNTY JUDICIAL SALES CORPORATION Selling Officer, (312) 444-1122 I720252

LATIMER LEVAY FYOCK, LLC 55 W MONROE SUITE 1100 Chicago, IL 60603 (312) 422-8000 E-Mail: Judicialsales@llflegal.com Attorney File No. 96000-74 Attorney Code. 06204378 Case Number: 12 CH 38743 TJSC#: 37-3484

See what grows when you advertise in‌

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.

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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.

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.

5

Thursday, April 27, 2017 Section 2

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Section 2 Thursday, April 27, 2017

448-6161

The Regional News - The Reporter

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

OUT & ABOUT

The Regional News • The Reporter

Thursday, April 27, 2017

O&A MOVIE REVIEW

Love interest is incomplete but ‘The Promise’ delivers on war story In every ounce of schooling I’ve received on World War I, I never once learned of the Armenian genocide at the hands of Turkish forces in the final days of the Ottoman Empire. And while “The Promise” isn’t a documentary on the subject, it is an engaging story that evokes sadness for those lost and serves as a stark reminder of the cost of fascism and the challenges that face refugees.

The Promise, as a piece of filmmaking, has a reach that exceeds its grasp. At its highest aspirations, director Terry George pushes for the epic heights of historical dramas like “Titanic” (1997, directed

by James Cameron), “The English Patient” (1996, directed by Anthony Minghella) and “Schindler’s List” (1993, directed by Steven Spielberg).

The fact that it falls short of these movies should not be a blemish on its record. Rather, I found this high-aiming spirit refreshing. Many films released at this point in the year aim to simply make money or further a franchise. How nice it is to see a picture with the goal of making an impression.

While the film’s war backdrop is a major factor in the narrative, the inciting thrust of the picture — at least in its first act — hinges upon a love triangle (or really, a love square) between an Armenian medical student studying in Constantinople, Mikael (Oscar Isaac); a French/Armenian teacher and artist, Ana (Charlotte Le Bon); and an American journalist covering the region’s changing political climate as war looms, Chris (Christian Bale).

Ana and Chris are not only partners in romance, but business. He provides the stories, and she draws illustrations when he can’t provide photos. However, Mikael finds himself drawn to Ana despite having made a promise to marry a girl in his small hometown upon graduating from medical school.

Just as their passions are about to intersect, war breaks and the genocide of countless Armenians fol-

WOLFGANG PUCK’S KITCHEN

BRIAN LAUGHRAN low. Our heroes drift in different directions, falling in and out of contact with one another.

The film’s love story never feels balanced. Bale is convincing as a jealous, overprotective type when it comes to his relationship with Ana. But, Isaac’s Mikael is never really given an opportunity to fall for Ana; it just happens.

Perhaps the screenwriters (Robin Swicord and director George) were assuming the audience would buy it because Isaac and Le Bon are both beautiful people with charm, and — in the movies — beautiful people with charm are meant to be together.

But, it’s a film of halves; luckily, I found the war half exceptionally engaging, despite other problems.

The film moves at a slow pace, but at times still seems truncated. Certain supporting characters are introduced and then dismissed. Some scenes begin only to end abruptly, leaving me to wonder if there is a longer cut of the film somewhere that is more even.

Still, I found director George’s visual style appealing and admirable; the performances are in fine order; and the war/refugee elements are compelling and insightful.

RATING: B Brian Laughran’s movie reviews appear the second and fourth Thursdays of each month.

BROADEN YOUR HORIZONS The Center sets event slate

The Center, 12700 Southwest Highway, Palos Park, is offering several events in the days ahead. Many classes will be held outdoors, or in The Log Cabin Center for the Arts, part of The Center. For more information, or to register for a program, call (708) 361-3650.

• “Sheep to Shawl” is scheduled for noon to 4 p.m. Sunday April 30. Sheep shearing is an antique practice that has evolved greatly over the years.

At this year’s annual event, the focus will be on demonstrating its many different forms. In addition to the shearing, guests can visit all of the Children’s Farm animals. Children will be able to make a “sheep to shawl” craft, and the Emerald Society Bagpipes & Drums will perform. Admission is $7 per person. Shearing begins at 1:30 p.m.

• “Folkarts” runs on four Monday afternoons, beginning May 1 from 1 to 3 p.m. Instructor Lois Lauer will lead four workshops in which students will create garden-themed decorative crafts. Planned projects include making fairy herb gardens, garden stepping stones, herb and flower-printed stationery, individual plant presses and more. No experience or previous skills are needed. Lauer invites those who wish to come at 11 a.m. on Monday mornings before class to bring a sack lunch and join her in gathering willow branches, garden herbs, flowers and forest twigs for the class. Class fee is $68, plus a $16 materials fee.

• “Don Wiberg: Magic with a Laugh!” is set for noon to 2 p.m. Tuesday May 2. The show will mix magic and comedy.

• A stained-glass class will run on six Thursdays, beginning May 4, from 1 to 3 p.m. Instructor Harry Meneghini will help participants create stained-glass pieces by learning the principles of glass design and color and the techniques of cutting and soldering, using both lead and copper foil to join the pieces of glass. Starting with simple projects, students will design their own windows, pictures and lamps. Class fee is $100. A list of glass and supplies which will need to be purchased will be distributed the first day of class, or may be obtained at The Center office, but students are asked to wait until after the first class to make any purchases.

Southwest • Section 2, Page 7

Supplied photo

A student solders her work in a recent stained glass class.

free food samples from Corner Bakery.

• “Exotic & Unusual Pets with the University of Illinois Extension” will run from 4 to 5 p.m.

Tuesday, May 2. Students will discover the lives of exotic and unusual spiders and insects in our world.

• “Around the World: Handmade Artisan Gifts with Ten Thousand Villages” is scheduled for 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, May 2. Students will taste fair-trade chocolate and get to try on jewelry and clothing that was made by fair-trade workers from all around the world.

• “Project Serve: Garden Apron with Priscilla” will be held from 4 to 5:30 p.m. Wednesday, May 3. Students will make a garden apron for themselves and make one to sell at The Bridge Thrift Store.

• “Culinary: Guess Your Spices with Joliet Junior College” is set for 4 to 5:30 p.m. Wednesday, May 3. Students will learn about spices from all around the world.

• A songwriting session will be held from 4:30 to Bridge Teen Center provides free events The Bridge Teen Center, 15555 S. 71st Ct., Or- 5:30 p.m. Thursday, May 4. Students will discover land Park, is offering several free events for teens the art behind crafting words and making music in seventh through 12th grade during the upcoming with a musical artist.

• A Cinco de Mayo celebration is set for 7:30 week. For more information, call (708) 532-0500.

• “Art Studio Night and Chalk Murals” is set to 10:30 p.m. Friday, May 5. There will be music, for 7:30 to 10:30 p.m. Friday, April 28. Students games and a live performance by The Magnifiers. are invited to come to a night of creativity. There Free food samples will be provided by Culver’s will also be live music by Signal vs. Sound and of Orland Park.

Dreamstime.com

These crispy cylinders feature lots of fresh seasonal vegetables.

Celebrate spring with fresh ingredients

By Wolfgang Puck All along the streets near my Spago restaurant in Beverly Hills, colorful banners have been announcing local observances for Earth Day. Officially celebrated on April 22, the event began on college campuses across the nation back in 1970 and aims to make all of us more aware of the importance of keeping our planet healthy, clean and safe.

For me, the ideal place to celebrate Earth Day is at my local farmers’ market. Where else can you see the beautiful ingredients that result from organic, sustainable farming, and taste how good they can be? That is especially true in springtime, as the earth renews itself after winter and begins to give us so many delicious, colorful, healthful vegetables.

How do you observe the holiday in your own kitchen? Just about any recipe featuring the bounty of the earth would make a good choice, including salads, vegetable soups, stir-fries, pasta dishes tossed with julienned vegetables, and on and on. But I thought it would be especially fun to mark this Earth Day with a recipe that literally has the season in its name. It’s one of the Chinese cuisine’s most popular appetizers: spring rolls.

These crispy cylinders get their name for a pair of related reasons.

Whether their filling includes some form of meat or is completely vegetarian, they typically feature lots of fresh vegetables, all rolled up inside a thin noodle wrapper. For that reason, they are traditionally served as a special treat during the Chinese Spring Festival, the 15-day-long observance of the Chinese New Year as winter gives way to spring.

So I hope you’ll find the following recipe for vegetarian spring rolls a perfect treat to honor Earth Day. They’re ideal to prepare on a weekend, when you have a little extra time, and you’ll find them surprisingly easy to make if you keep a few simple things in mind.

First, streamline shopping by heading either to a well-stocked supermarket with a good Asian foods section or to a nearby Chinese market. That’s where you’ll be sure to locate the few special — but not really hard to find — ingredients like glass noodles, mushroom soy sauce, pickled ginger, and packaged spring roll wrappers.

Next, be sure to carefully follow the instructions for stir-frying each julienned vegetable individually, ensuring that they’re all tendercrisp; and then to drain the vegetable mixture well, so your fill-

ing and wrapper won’t be soggy.

Finally, fry the rolls cautiously, taking care first to make sure the oil is the proper temperature and then to avoid overcrowding the oil, which can drop the frying temperature.

It’s that easy. And you’ll wind up with a perfect treat for your own at-home Earth Day party!

chopped To form the spring rolls: • Spring roll wrappers • 1 large egg beaten together with 1 tablespoon each water and cornstarch, to make an egg wash • Peanut oil, for deep-frying

For the vegetable filling: • 1 large onion, trimmed • 1 medium carrot, trimmed and peeled • 1/4 pound (125 g) fresh shiitake mushrooms, stemmed • 1 large red bell pepper, halved, stemmed, and seeded • 1 large yellow bell pepper, halved, stemmed and seeded • 1 small green cabbage, cored • Peanut oil, for stir-frying • Kosher salt • Freshly ground black pepper • 1/4 pound (125 g) glass noodles, soaked in cold water for 10 minutes, then drained and chopped into smaller strands • 1/4 cup (60 mL) mushroom soy sauce • 2 tablespoons chile paste • 1 tablespoon sesame oil • 1 bunch cilantro leaves,

First, prepare the hot Chinese mustard sauce. In a bowl, combine all the sauce ingredients except the oils. Stir well with a whisk.

While stirring briskly, drizzle in each oil until emulsified. Cover and refrigerate.

Next, prepare the aromatic mixture. In a processor with the stainless-steel blade, combine the ginger, garlic, green onions and pepper flakes. With the machine running, slowly pour in the oil; continue processing until pureed.

In a saute pan or wok, cook over medium-high heat until aromatic, 1 to 2 minutes. Season with salt, pepper and sugar. Transfer to a bowl and set aside.

For the vegetable filling, cut each vegetable into thin julienne strips. Heat a little peanut oil in a wok over high heat. One at a time, stir-fry each vegetable until brightly color and tender-crisp, 1 to 2 minutes; then, season lightly with salt and pepper and transfer to a large bowl, adding each new vegetable as done. Drain excess liquid from the vegetables. Stir in the noodles, mushroom soy sauce, chile paste, sesame oil and cilantro.

Adjust the seasonings with salt and pepper. Set aside to cool.

When the vegetables have cooled, stir in the aromatic mixture. As soon as you are ready to form spring rolls, use clean hands to squeeze out all excess liquid.

To form the spring rolls, place a wrapper on a clean work surface and brush its edges evenly with egg wash. Place about 1/2 cup (125 mL) of filling near one edge.

Fold in both sides over the filling and roll up the filling inside, gently pressing down and sealing the wrapper’s final edge. Repeat until all filling has been used.

Fill a deep fryer with the peanut oil; or pour into a deep pot to a depth sufficient to submerge the rolls. Heat the oil to 350 F (175 C). Deep-fry the rolls in batches, taking care not to overcrowd, until deep golden brown, 2 to 3 minutes.

With the deep-fryer basket or a wire skimmer, transfer to paper towels to drain.

With a sharp knife, carefully cut each roll in half. Drizzle with hot Chinese mustard sauce, or pass it alongside for dipping. Serve immediately.

21): Self-discipline can be a lifesaver. If you practice your craft and color within the lines you may end up becoming an expert.

Develop a better understanding with loved ones and friends as this week unfolds.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Don’t judge the book by its cover. The person who seems overly concerned with manners and conventions might be very nice once you delve past the surface. This week you can widen your circle of contacts.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Expect the best and you can

rest. An opportunity may arrive in the week ahead, giving you an acceptable way to escape from a costly situation. Check the answering service and email so you don’t miss a crucial message.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): There is enough sympathy to go around. Nurture your relationships in the week to come. If you are contented with what you have your joint resources will thrive.

Don’t be discouraged by criticism or negativity.

VEGETARIAN SPRING ROLLS Makes 20 to 24 For the hot Chinese mustard sauce: • 4 tablespoons Chinese dry mustard • 2 tablespoons water • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar • 4 tablespoons pickled ginger liquid • 1 lemon, juiced • Pinch turmeric • 1 tablespoon sugar • 1 large pasteurized egg yolk • 1 tablespoon chile oil • 1 tablespoon sesame oil • 1 cup (250 mL) peanut oil Aromatics: • 2-inch (5-cm) piece fresh ginger, peeled • 3 large cloves garlic • 2 green onions • Pinch red pepper flakes • 1/2 cup (125 mL) peanut oil • Pinch salt • Pinch black pepper • Pinch sugar

OMARR’S WEEKLY ASTROLOGICAL FORECAST

By Jeraldine Saunders ARIES (March 21-April 19): Caution keeps you out of harm’s way. The wolf might knock on your door but you don’t have to answer. You can make headway with career, financial concerns and business this week without neglecting family needs.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): Put out your feelers. You are like a spider with a web to spin. Creative ability requires the energy to begin something plus the inspiration to choose what to create. Let your

ambitions guide you in the week ahead.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): In the week ahead you may learn a lesson about clinging to the past.

You may find that your way is barred if you stubbornly refuse to cooperate or hold a grudge. Give a certain someone the benefit of the doubt.

CANCER (June 21-July 22): Be inspired by a special someone and adapt to a changing environment. You may be tempted to keep new contacts at arm’s length, but in the week ahead should participate in group activities to widen your

knowledge.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Carve your own niche. Warmth and charm aren’t your only admirable traits. This isn’t a good week to make a major change but it can be a good time to consolidate your ideas and to place emphasis on developing friendships.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): You have the choice. You can be generous and understanding or expect everyone to toe the line.

In the week ahead you might be wise to focus on understanding why people do what they do rather than if they do it.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Plan ahead for the future since that’s where you will spend the rest of your life. Your judgment is better than usual this week so this is a good time to meet important new people through your job or to launch crucial projects.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): You cannot change the cards you are dealt, just how you play the hand. You may be more interested in money saving ideas and career success than hugs and kisses in the week ahead. Do not take on new debts.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec.

8 Section 2

Thursday, April 27, 2017

The Regional News • The Reporter

New guidelines might help prevent peanut allergies

By Jessica Perkins Parents have grown increasingly leery of foods that contain peanut- based ingredients.

Concerns are valid, though, as a growing number of U.S. children deal with peanut allergies each day. To raise awareness, people like Dr. Neil Gershman, who is board-certified in allergy and immunology and a Fellow of the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology, work to educate the public and pediatricians on the importance of peanut-allergy prevention.

“For school age children, peanut allergy is by far the most common among all foods, affecting about two percent of the population,” Gershman says. “Reactions can be as mild as itching and swelling of the face and mouth, but they can progress to diffuse hives and swelling of the tongue and throat, as well as asthma-like symptoms of wheezing and coughing.”

Severe cases can even result in shock or death.

According to Gershman, infants with a high risk of developing a peanut allergy include those with

eczema or other known food allergies, such as milk and eggs.

Until recently, pediatricians often recommended that parents introduce peanut-based products into their children’s diets at the age of two. However, new research shows that exposure to peanuts during infancy might serve as a more effective preventative method.

Earlier this year, the Division of Allergy, Immunology and Transplantation at the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases sponsored a panel that released new guidelines for the prevention of peanut allergies. The guidelines are based on findings taken from the Learning Early About Allergy Prevention (LEAP) study conducted by the Immune Tolerant Network.

“The LEAP study clearly showed that introduction of peanut early in life significantly lowered the risk of developing peanut allergy by age 5,” says Dr. Daniel Rotrosen, director of the Division of Allergy, Immunology and Transplantation at NIAID. The NIAID’s guidelines include three core directives aimed at reducing the risk of peanut allergies.

The first encourages infants with severe eczema, egg allergy or both be introduced to age-appropriate peanut-containing foods as early as four to six months of age.

The second guideline suggests that infants with mild to moderate eczema be introduced to ageappropriate peanut-containing foods around six months. The third guideline suggests infants without eczema or any food allergy have age-appropriate peanut-containing foods introduced freely in the diet, together with other solid foods.

“It is kind of counter-intuitive, but that is how the immune system works,” Gershman says. “Early infant exposure to certain foods does lead to a less chance of food allergies.”

Some suggestions for making the introduction of peanuts into an infant’s diet include adding peanut protein powder to baby foods or dissolving snacks that are made with peanuts.

Before implementing the new NIAID guidelines, Gershman advises parents to talk to a pediatrician.

“There are some complicating factors, in that it is possible

that a child could be allergic to a food without the parent knowing,” Gershman says. “I recommend parents, especially of those children who are at high risk for food allergies, do some type of allergy testing prior to the introduction of the peanuts.”

Learn more about peanut allergies For a complete breakdown of the new NIAID guidelines, search “Addendum Summary for Clinicians and Caregivers” at niaid.nih.gov.

Smith Senior Living opens new wellness centers with state-of-the-art fitness equipment for older adults Submitted by Smith Senior Living Smith Village, a life plan community at 2320 W. 113th Place in Chicago’s Beverly neighborhood, recently opened its new Wellness Center as construction contractors put finishing touches on a 3,350-foot square space just to the north of first floor elevators in its independent living wing.

Amid colorful balloons signaling the official opening day, residents and staff toured the center which includes: a workout room featuring Hur equipment with air pressure technology specially designed to be gentle on the joints of older adults; an expansive carpeted area with plenty of natural light, mirrors and a balance bar for fitness classes; a salon and spa. The salon and spa feature four styling stations, a manicure and pedicure station, and reception area.

“This new center represents a fresh attitude toward health and wellness,” said Karinna Wesley, who joined Smith Village in February of 2017 as wellness coordinator. “Wellness and fitness are not just for kids and younger people.

They’re for everyone. Wellness includes not just exercise but attitude, emotional health, self-esteem and diet.”

Wesley and Smith Village staff aim to make the Wellness Center a go-to destination for residents in all lifestyle settings—independent living, assisted living and skilled nursing care—to sustain or improve their health. Along with helping residents maintain regular exercise routines and enhance personal grooming, the center ensures residents maintain recent strides made with physical therapy, Wesley said. “We want all our residents going strong, especially those who have recently recovered from a medical situation.”

Wesley is planning regular healthy snack tasting sessions, along with an array of classes from brain fitness to chair aerobics. “The idea is to get everyone excited about wellness as a way of life,” she said. She’s also coaching Smith Village residents as they prepare for beanbag competitions against local high school students and residents of their sister community, Smith Crossing in Orland Park.

Smith Crossing also has switched over to Hur air-pressure technology, said Kevin McGee, president and CEO of Smith Senior Living, not-for-profit sponsor of Smith Village and Smith Crossing. “By making these improvements, Smith Senior Living is better supporting the health of our residents and preparing for a new generation of older adults— Baby Boomers, who come with high expectations for maintaining active, vibrant lifestyles.”

“We’re confident our residents will enjoy these new amenities,” said Marti Jatis, executive director of Smith Village. “Our approach to wellness is to nourish the mind, body and spirit. Beyond our wellness center, residents can

enjoy healthy meals prepared by an executive chef. They can also access a staff dietitian and onsite physical therapy.”

On the fourth floor of Smith Village’s independent living wing, residents anticipate completion of 1,500-square-foot movie theater with seating for 22, and an 80inch screen with a surround-sound audio system for viewing movies, DVDs, television programs and various streaming services. Smith Crossing residents already have an onsite movie theater with similar accommodations.

About Smith Senior Living

Smith Senior Living, a not-forprofit organization serving older adults, sponsors Smith Village in Chicago’s Beverly neighborhood and Smith Crossing in Orland Park, Ill. These are the only life plan communities located in the Southwest sector of metropolitan Chicago. An innovative leader providing the finest services and care for seniors, Smith established its first community in 1924, on the same city block where Smith Village stands today.

Both LPCs provide spacious

Photo by Smith Village

Smith Village Wellness Center coordinator Karinna Wesley stands amid Hur air-pressure fitness technology designed for older adults.

independent living residences, and apartments for assisted living, as well as memory support and skilled nursing care. In addition, they offer short-term rehab programs for residents and others who have had surgery or a medical incident.

For more information about how Smith Senior Living can help seniors enjoy their retirement, contact Smith Crossing at 708-326-2308 or SmithCrossing. org, and Smith Village at 773-4747303 or SmithVillage.org.

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