Area softball teams dazzle on the diamond
Celebrating the
Taste of Orland Park
$1 Newsstand
In Sports
Special Section Inside
THE REGIONAL NEWS Named best small weekly in Illinois five times by the Illinois Press Association
Thursday, August 3, 2017
Serving Palos, Orland and Worth townships and neighboring communities
Brannigan quits county commission By Anthony Caciopo Regional News Editor
Palos Township Trustee Sharon Brannigan has stepped down from her position on the Cook County Commission on Women’s Issues following a call for her resignation by County Board President Toni Preckwinkle, leaving the larger issue of Brannigan her position on the Palos Township board still simmering with community activists. “We’re claiming this as a victory and a step in the right direction,” said Bassem Kawar, advocacy specialist with the National Network for Arab American Communities. “We’re going to continue to organize until she resigns as a Palos Township trustee.” Brannigan has been under fire for comments she posted on social media that many people inside and outside the community have found offensive. In now-deleted
76th Year, NO. 31 • 3 Sections
statements on Facebook, Brannigan questioned why Palos-area schools are “filling with Middle Eastern students without proper documentation.” She also claimed that area Muslims fail to integrate into the community. “Everywhere you turn, from Orland Park to Bridgeview, those numbers are increasing in leaps and bounds,” she wrote. “We are allowing these people whether they have peaceful intentions Photo by Anthony Caciopo or not into our country without Striking automobile mechanics demonstrate at the intersection of 159th Street and 84th Avenue in Orland Park in front of Community Honda. question.” Following widespread discovery and circulation of the comments, a crowd of more than 100 people showed up at Palos Township headquarters for a scheduled meeting on July 10 in which at Amid honking car horns, work at the affected dealerships underway since June. least a dozen attendees spoke of waves and the occasional shouts have ground to a halt, from rou“During these negotiations, both their dissatisfaction with Branof encouragement from passing tine oil changes to more complex sides worked very hard to attempt nigan. Many of those who spoke motorists, members of Mechan- work, according to Sam Cicinelli, to resolve many difficult issues,” inside the meeting and outside the ics Local 701 took to the streets business representative for Local said Mike Bilek, director of combuilding demanded her resignaearly Tuesday morning to air their 701. Approximately 1,900 me- munications of the Chicago Autotion. Less than half the crowd was grievances which they say include chanics have stopped working. mobile Trade Association. Bilek allowed into the meeting room The 130 affected dealerships spoke on behalf of the NCDC via uncompensated work time, contindue to seating limitations. ued reduction of time allowed for make up slightly more than one- a statement released to the media. By Anthony Caciopo making repairs, increased health- third of the 420 new car dealers “The parties reached tentative See COMMISSION, Page 2 Regional News Editor in the greater Chicago area. care costs and more. agreement on more than 35 issues, It is the first time mechanics and a number of other proposals With the strike only partway Automobile mechanics are on through its second day as of press have walked off the job in more were withdrawn by both sides. strike at approximately 130 new time at The Regional News, it is than 20 years. A four-year contract Unfortunately, the parties were car dealers throughout Chicago- not yet known what impact the between the technicians of Local unable to resolve a few remainland, including some along the mechanics’ work stoppage will 701 and the New Car Dealer Com- ing issues. Ultimately, the NCDC long row of dealerships on 159th eventually have on the motoring mittee (NCDC) ended at midnight, See STRIKE, Page 2 public. Maintenance and repair July 31. Negotiations had been Street in Orland Park.
Automobile repair techs on strike Members of Mechanics Local 701 take message to the streets
Palos Heights takes flight with ‘mayor’s monarch pledge’ Brain tumor a close call for Palos Heights teen By Anthony Caciopo Regional News Editor
Noting the substantial decline in the populations of Monarch butterflies and other pollinating insects, Palos Heights Mayor Bob Straz has signed the National Wildlife Federation’s “Mayor’s Monarch Pledge” to encourage local residents to provide habitat and food for creatures that produce as much as $40 billion of products nationwide. Straz’ pledge followed an impassioned presentation at Tuesday’s City Council meeting by Gareth Blakesley, operations manager at Lake Katherine Nature Center & Botanic Gardens. Blakesley informed council members and the public of the potentially serious consequences because of the decreasing numbers of pollinating insects. “Seventy-five percent to 95 percent of all our flowering plants on earth require help with pollination,” he explained. ‘That’s 180,000 plant species and 1,200 crop species, very vital to our lives.” “Pollinators are in massive decline,” he said, attributing the situation to pollution, misuse of chemicals, disease and changes in climatic patterns.
According to information supplied by the Nature Center, in the past two decades the number of monarchs has dropped from a billion to 30 million largely because of habitat destruction. Monarch caterpillars feed and lay their eggs exclusively on milkweed but the colorful flower is rapidly disappearing from the countryside due to the overuse of herbicides and decline of the native prairie. “These patterns are contributing to the shrinking and shifting native populations,” said Blakesley. Blakesley quoted a source that claims “Pollinators add $270 billion to the global economy. In the U.S. alone, bees and other pollinators produce $40 billion worth of products annually,” he said. “We’re super-excited that Mayor Bob Straz is going ahead with the Mayor’s Monarch Pledge,” said Blakesley. “With the Monarch Pledge, we’re going to do a lot of exciting things.” Blakesley said that the first activity will take place at 1 p.m. Sept. 26, the debut of “a demo garden near City Hall where we’ll plant different types of pollinator species.” Other work related to pollinating insects is a project between the
By Anthony Caciopo Regional News Editor
It’s the wonder and the infinite promise of youth that allows us to dream wildly about our future, a future in which we might become an actor. Or a neurosurgeon. Or maybe even a military officer. Those are the dreams of 15-yearold Max Szykowny. But those potential future paths in life, diverse and exciting, grew dangerously dim for the Palos Heights teenager when he was diagnosed with a brain tumor in 2015. Then only 14, and with no clue he had a very serious problem growing in his skull, Max hadn’t been feeling well. “I was vomiting a lot,” he said. “When I vomited I’d have a headache for hours and hours. Sometimes I couldn’t even see.” With Max suffering, an MRI was performed. The MRI showed a tumor slightly larger than a golf ball growing at the front of his brain, according to his family. The discovery put him on a very fast track of emergency medical attention. “Two days after I found I had a tumor, I had my first surgery,” he said. The date was Nov. 24, 2015 and the procedure took place at See PLEDGE, Page 2 Advocate Children’s Hospital in
Oak Lawn. His condition, said a family member, was juvenile pilocytic astrocytoma. According to the Columbia University Medical Center/New York-Presbyterian Hospital website, these tumors grow slowly and are benign. Max’s family rallied immediately, with a brother and sister coming in from out of state. “They’re the best,” Max said of his father, Dan; mother, Suzanne; brothers, Zachary, Justin, Charlie and Max, and sister, Allison. “When I was in the hospital, everyone came in the second they heard the news,” he said as his mother recalled the two big carts of games they wheeled in. The family also brought along some Thanksgiving dinner. “The surgery was like 10 hours long,” Max said. Perhaps surprisingly, he wasn’t frightened. “I was kind of confused with it all,” he said. But a second surgery barely more than two months later changed his confusion to fear. “On February 2nd, I had my second surgery,” recalled Max. This time, he said “I knew what was going on and I was kind of scared.” His second surgery was to take care of what Max described as a
NOW IN STOCK
17514 S. Oak Park Ave., Tinley Park
888-744-4697
2018 Stelvio
• All-Aluminum 2.0L Direct Injection 4-Cylinder Turbo Engine with 280 HP and 306 LB-FT of Torque • 8-Speed Automatic Transmission • Standard All-Wheel Drive (AWD) • Rear Privacy Glass • Leather Seats Starting at $41,995 AWD
Photo by Anthony Caciopo
Max Szykowny, 15, is on the road to recovery from a brain tumor that was See TEEN, Page 2 larger than a golf ball.
Let Alec Bettenhausen and his staff Change Your Mind about Car Buying
SALES HOURS: Mon-Thurs 8am-8pm, Fri-Sat 8am-6pm SERVICE HOURS: Mon-Fri 7:30am-6pm, Sat 7:30am-4pm
THE SUV FOR THE S–CURVES
BettenhausenAlfaRomeo.com
Visit us on the web at www.theregionalnews.com • email: TheRegional@comcast.net • To advertise, call 708-448-4000
2 Thursday, August 3, 2017
The Regional News
Cal-Sag Trail users may encounter closures
By Dermot Connolly Staff Writer
Bikers, runners and other users of a portion of the Calumet-Sag Trail going through Palos Heights and Palos Park may find certain sections blocked by maintenance workers for the next week or so. On Tuesday, workers apparently doing some type of maintenance blocked about 500 feet of the route at the busy intersection of College Drive and Southwest Highway. A section of the trail running along 119th Street west of Harlem Avenue was also reportedly blocked at one point, supposedly by Nicor, but that wasn’t immediately evident on Tuesday during a visit by The Regional News. A staff
member at nearby Lake Katherine Nature Preserve was not aware of any official trail closures. According to one published report, maintenance work by Nicor will be continuing until tomorrow, Friday. But a Nicor spokesman reached on Tuesday said he was unaware of any work scheduled by the utility this week on that section of the trail. Duane Bourne of Nicor suggested that Westshore Pipeline or its contractor may be doing the work but that could not be immediately confirmed. Steve Buchtel, executive director of Friends of the Cal-Sag Trail expressed frustration on Tuesday about the lack of information coming from Nicor and other agencies “From what I understood, that
(Nicor) work was supposed to have been done between July 19 and (July 31),” said Buchtel. “It kind of caught us by surprise. It sounds like it was planned maintenance and not something that had to be (performed) suddenly, but a lot of people didn’t know about it. It affects the 10,000 to 15,000 people who use the trail, especially if they plan on riding all the way to Lemont, and then are stopped without notice.” “There needs to be better communication (between utility companies) and the public,” said Buchtel, “Friends of the Park could help with that. We could get the word out if the information is shared with us,” he said.
Palos Farmers Market to host string quartet from Illinois Philharmonic As a tribute to National Farmers Market Week, and in anticipation of Illinois Philharmonic’s (IPO) upcoming season at Trinity Christian College, a string quartet from IPO will perform a concert of well-known classical favorites from 9:45 to 11:25 a.m. Aug. 9 at the Palos Heights Farmers Market, 12217 S. Harlem Ave. IPO is the largest performing arts organization in Chicago’s Southland, “providing professional orchestral music of beauty and excellence to the region,” according to a marketing statement. Now entering its 40th season, the
Strike
Continued from Page 1 made a final offer to the union to resolve those remaining issues. Union membership voted to reject the offer and to go on strike Tuesday.” The Local 701 Bargaining Committee informed its members via an update on the organization’s website that “The strike authorization vote was nearly unanimous.” “The last, best and final offer from the NCDC for those working under the Standard Automotive Agreement was voted on July 30,” according to the committee. “The results of the vote were the contract was overwhelmingly rejected.”
orchestra will present concerts at Trinity Christian College’s Ozinga Chapel as the primary venue for its 2017-18 season. IPO’s repertoire ranges from baroque and classical masterpieces to world premieres and modern favorites. The Illinois Council of Orchestras named IPO the “Illinois Professional Orchestra of the Year” in 1992 and again in 2010, recognizing IPO’s overall artistic excellence. In May 2017, IPO named Maestro Stilian Kirov as music director of IPO. He is the winner of the 2016 and 2017 Solti Foundation
Career Assistance Awards, as well as the Debut Conducting prize. During the 40th anniversary season, IPO will perform five Saturday evening classical concerts and a Holiday Pops matinee concert in December, along with four youth education concerts in May, 2018 for approximately 4,000 Southland students. All 2017-18 season concerts will be held in Ozinga Chapel at Trinity Christian College, 6601 W. College Dr., Palos Heights. More information can be obtained by visiting ipomusic.org or calling (708) 481-7774.
Striking mechanics occupied two camps of about a dozen workers apiece, spread out for maximum visibility at Community Honda, 8340 W. 159th St. in Orland Park. Two other dealerships directly east—Joe Rizza Ford and Joe Rizza Imports—were also affected by the strike. Leaflets stacked on folding tables under the strikers’ tents were offered to any passersby who expressed interest in learning about the mechanics’ grievances. Among the non-pay-related issues the mechanics have is that the apprenticeship program has been doubled to eight years. Union membership wants to go back to the traditional four-year structure. Additionally, the striking me-
chanics claim that a “flex” work week forces them into schedules in which there are not two consecutive days off. The mechanics say they want a 40-hour work week, with none of what they claim is uncompensated time of as much as six hours per week. Local 701 members also claim they conceded to the dealerships as much as 15 percent of their compensation when the economy was struggling and are still working under that pay structure. For their part, the NCD said a pay hike of five percent was offered as part of the latest contract negotiations. At least one television outlet is speculating that the strike will be a short one.
Pledge
Continued from Page 1 Lake Katherine staff and a team from the Palos Heights Parks and Recreation Department to include a “good variety of native plants” in locations around the city, he said. In addition, Blakesley said a pollinator garden will be installed at the public library, 12501 S. 71st Ave., noting that the library will host a Monarch conservation program at 2 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 10 featuring master gardener and landscape horticulturist Dolly Foster. Watch for additional information in The Regional News or check the library’s website at palosheightslibrary.org. Blakesley said the effort will grow to include involvement with schools and local community groups, as well. Milkweed plants, a favorite of butterflies, can be had in seed form for one dollar at the Lake Katherine office, 7402 Lake Katherine Dr., he said. Anne Girzadas, manager of the Palos Heights Farmers Market, said milkweed is also available for purchase at the market, held from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. each Wednesday at 12217 S. Harlem Ave. Mayor Straz recalled a time when butterflies were much more frequently seen. “Years ago as a small child I’d see a lot more butterflies and Monarch butterflies around,” he said. “You just don’t see them anymore.” “My own grandkids, when they see a butterfly they get excited. It’s unique but it’s become too unique, he said. In other news, the council offered congratulations to Ald. Gerry McGovern of Ward 4 for being selected as “Hero of The Game” by the Chicago White Sox. McGovern will be honored between innings at a game against the Kansas City Royals on Sunday, Aug. 13. McGovern anticipates having up to 20 family and other sup-
Photo by Anthony Caciopo
Max Szykowny rears back and prepares to belt a whiffle ball in a 20-team tournament organized by his brother to raise money and awareness for the American Brain Tumor Association. Max is currently recovering from a tumor.
Teen
Continued from Page 1 “brain bleed.” After that successful procedure, a long period of recovery was in store. “They limited me from going out of the house for a few months. It was my house arrest,” he said, smiling. “Then, I had a bandage over my head and I found I had a love of winter hats.” Now 15, Max recounted his story while waiting his turn at bat in a whiffle ball tournament organized by his brother, Zach, to raise money and awareness for the American Brain Tumor Association. Lean and energetic, Max has no visible signs of physical deficits, at least not to a stranger. At the tournament, held in a forest preserve in Crestwood, he whacked the ball with vigor, raced around the bases and stood in the outfield wearing cool shades while joking with teammates, waiting for a ball to come his way. “I’m feeling much better now,” he said, shortly before taking the plate for another at-bat. “I have headaches but they’re getting better. I can do anything now.” Spread across the huge field at the Conkey Forest Preserve on Central Avenue, more than 85 players on 20 teams took part in the tournament. Zach Szykowny estimated the total turnout of players, family and supporters at about 150. “We were told initially that his outlook was not good,” said Zach in a video message on a Bats For Brains Wordpress blog to potential
Commission
Continued from Page 1 When Brannigan’s online postings came to the attention of Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle, she issued a statement for Brannigan to resign from the Commission on Women’s Issues, an organization whose mission is to advance the status of women and girls in Cook County. The focus of the commission is domestic violence, childcare, economic inequity and health issues, according to the county’s website. Brannigan has served on the commission since May of 2016. She was an appointee of Cook County Commissioner Sean Morrison. Pressure from the community, along with Preckwinkle’s call for Brannigan to step down, resulted in the trustee’s decision to resign, said Kawar. “We truly believe it was a combination of both,” he said, citing a coalition of organizations including the Campaign to TAKE ON HATE, Arab American Action Network (AAAN), Arab American Family Services (AAFS), AmVote PAC, Arab American Democratic Club, Kiswani Law P.C., Law Offices of Reem Odeh and MPower Change. Trustee Brannigan has so far refused to resign from her elected
tournament players and donors. “After a second surgery and testing, along with some very strong prayers, he got through it.” At the forest preserve during game time, Zach paused from his duties as event organizer to drop by the diamond where his little brother’s team was playing. “We got a terrible diagnosis, but later, the complete opposite,” Zach said, who admits to being “stunned” when he heard the initial news. Zach was joined by Suzanne, the boys’ mother, as Max alternately played with the team or chatted with visitors when he was not up to bat or stationed in the outfield. “Zach has been so awesome,” said Suzanne. “He came up with this idea to raise money. He planned every bit of it.” Zach was quick to credit the support of others, including local businesses that contributed gifts for a raffle. Recalling a friend’s 8-yearold daughter, Abby Wujcik, who passed away from a brain tumor, Suzanne became emotional as she considered her own family’s blessings. “Having the diagnosis for Max so soon after Abby passed away was really hard for everyone,” Suzanne said. “The fact that Max was okay, we were very lucky,” she said, choking up and turning away to hide her tears. “Oh, lord…” During his recuperation, Max was allowed to return to school for half days. He was a student at Independence Junior High School during his illness and now attends Shepard High School, where he
is about to begin his sophomore year. One of his favorite courses is his speech class, which helps fuel his desire to be an actor. “He’s gone for physical therapy and bio-feedback,” says Suzanne. “It’s a long process but he’s doing awesome.” Alex Dauksza from one of the 20 opposing teams decided to take part in the event as soon as he heard of it. “This is great,” said the Orland Park resident who did not know Max and the Szykowny family before the event. “I’m really for this. I have a 21-year-old daughter who is suffering from bone cancer. It went into remission, but it came back.” “I have a friend who works for one of the sponsors of the event. He told me about it, said it’s for a good cause and I said ‘I’m in’,” said Dauksza. “So far, so good with Max. I talked with him for about 20 minutes. He’s a really good guy.” As Max gazed across the field where the teams were playing for the benefit of the American Brain Tumor Association, he summed up his feeling about the outpouring of support with just a single word. “Speechless,” he said. “I’m in speech (class) and I’m speechless.” Donations can be sent to Zach Szykowny, 6710 W. 131st St., Palos Heights, Ill. 60463. Checks should be made payable the American Brain Tumor Association. E-payments are also available. Contact him at zachary.szykowny@gmail. com or (312) 405-7535 for more information.
position on the Palos Township board. She told The Regional News in a brief phone call on July 18 “My position is the same. Nothing has changed.” A call to the trustee for additional comment was not returned in time for this edition. “It’s important to know that even though it’s an elected position, Sharon Brannigan ran unopposed,” said Kawar. “It’s clear that Palos Township doesn’t stand for such rhetoric. Palos Township values the diversity of the township. They value their neighbors and they truly don’t stand for what Brannigan stands for.” Palos Township government provides a variety of services to all or parts of Bridgeview, Hickory Hills, Orland Park, Palos Heights, Palos Hills, Palos Park, Willow Springs and Worth. Adding intrigue to the trustee’s departure from the Commission on Women’s Issues is a published report that she had already resigned from the position prior to widespread notice of her Facebook comments, the heated July 10 meeting and Preckwinkle’s call for her to leave. Brannigan reportedly had decided to leave her post on the commission because it was conflicting with her small business and she could not give the organization
the proper attention. Also reported was a claim by Commissioner Morrison that Preckwinkle was politically sniping with her demand for Brannigan to leave when the trustee had already put into motion her own departure. “Well, we can expect that position of him,” said Kawar about Commissioner Morrison. “Sharon is his appointee on the Commission for Women’s Issues and obviously he had no comment about the (controversial) comments she made. He said she’s just going to have to live with her comments.” Kawar said a petition has been launched that has garnered almost 500 signatures to date. Coalition members have already visited elected officials in some of the seven communities located in Palos Township. Speaking to The Regional News by phone in his car, Kawar was unable to provide the names of the four communities but said “There’s a lot of support for our cause. Our local mayors are supporting us and supporting our demand, publically calling for her resignation.” Kawar said coalition members and local residents will be gearing up for the next Palos Township meeting on Aug. 14. “More allies will be there,” he said. “it’s going to be a big meeting.”
Can’t afford new windows, doors, siding, gutters or awnings? Uhlmann Home Improvement can SOLVE your PROBLEMS
We will REPAIR your Windows, Entry Doors, Storm Doors, Patio Doors, Siding, Gutters & Awnings
CALL TODAY 708-349-0121 For Your FREE In-Home Estimate!
Home Guard $49 REBATE ®
Entry & Security Doors
20 OFF
% Storm Doors
Photo by Anthony Caciopo
Gareth Blakesley, operations manager at Lake Katherine Nature Center, discusses the vital role butterflies and other pollinators have in nature and the U.S. economy.
porters at the game. The tribute by the White Sox honors a member of the military (active duty, retired, veteran) during a designated half-inning break at each home game in 2017. Each hero is honored on the field and featured live on the centerfield videoboard as the Sox’ public address announcer reads a brief biography regarding his or her service to our country. Photos can be displayed during the tribute if provided by the serviceman or servicewoman.
Heroes will receive four complimentary tickets and complimentary parking. McGovern enlisted with the U.S. Marine Corps in 1965, serving in Vietnam where he was wounded. He earned the rank of sergeant during his service with the Corps. McGovern was hired by the Chicago Police Department in 1969 and worked 32 years there, many of them as a homicide detective. Start time at the Aug. 13 Sox game will be 1:10 p.m.
SUMMER SPECIAL
$78 OFF
Gutter Cleaning & Repair
& Sealing the Corners
10% OFF
Gutter Guards
Made in Chicago
20% OFF
Replacement Windows by 366 Low E/
Gas 189 FREE Argon Super Spacer Self-Cleaning FREE Vent Glass
We Offer Senior Citizens Discounts
A-RATING
2016
Family Owned ... Since 1945
773-238-1829 11636 S. Pulaski, Alsip • www.uhlmanninc.com Call Today for an Appointment!
Replacement Windows • Bows • Bays & Garden Windows Storm Windows & Doors Steel/Fiberglass Entry Doors • Awnings • Glass Block • Siding • Deck Staining & Repair
The Regional News
Thursday, August 3, 2017
Police, residents break bread in Palos Park By Anthony Caciopo Regional News Editor
Second time’s the charm for the Palos Park Police Department and local residents as Mother Nature cooperated for Badges and Burgers, a socializing event designed to bring officers and the public together. “Last year we had a very small turnout due to the crummy day,” said Cadet Logan Maske as he served burgers to many of the two-dozen attendees in the parking lot of the Kaptur Administrative Center, 8999 W. 123rd St. last Thursday. “I’m really enjoying it this year,” he said. “A lot of these faces I’ve never seen before. It’s awesome to see people that aren’t regulars with the police department, the fire department, seeing them out here, seeing them engaged.” The Badges and Burgers event was kicked off last year by Chief Joe Miller as a way to foster good relations between his department and local residents. “In my 30 years in law enforcement, I have never seen a climate like that of today, in that the police are portrayed in many
circles as ‘the problem’, a group of uneducated, uncaring, uncivil, civil servants,” said Miller. “People are surprised to learn many of our officers hold advanced degrees, two with JDs. They are here because they want to serve.” Badges and Burgers is only one of several creative outreach events held by the Palos Park Police Department under Miller’s leadership. “We’ll hold meetings and coffees with two seniors in a kitchen or entire homeowners’ groups any time, any place to foster police, community and business partnerships,” Miller said. “We do it by encouraging communication, transparency, and fairness across class, race, gender, socioeconomic status and circumstances by meeting and talking regularly.” This year, with its tailgating/picnic–style look and feel, it appears a solid base is being built for future Badges and Burgers events. “It’s extremely important so people don’t feel like we (the police) are something else entirely,” said Officer Rebecca Buhs as she helped cadets and fellow officers with food and supplies. “It’s not an us/them thing,” she said. “We should have people in
the town feel like we are their family. If they need help they call us because we’re family, not only because it’s our job.” Buhs commented how some officers have received hugs and even food when they’ve been called to residents’ houses. “Today, a boy came with his father to pick up a cadet application and these two girls are new cadets,” she said, gesturing to Brianna Sims and Jackie Skender who were helping serve visitors. “They were able to talk to him.” “Every month we try and hold two simple stop/shake hands and introduce ourselves via a conversation, on a personal level,” said Miller. “There is a reason most people in Palos Park have my cell phone. We work for them and whatever stereotypes people have, it kind of goes away, because you are now looking at and speaking with the person.” Relaxing at or around tables next to the grill and folding tables, local residents expressed their appreciation of Badges and Burgers. John and Charlene Szymanski of the Edelweiss subdivision had just wrapped up their visit when they stopped to offer a few words
Charge Orland Park man with sexually abusing boy A 26-year-old Orland Park man has been charged with aggravated criminal sexual abuse after he allegedly abused a boy over more than three years, starting in September 2010. Robert J. Favorite, currently held by the Cook County Department of Corrections on a $100,000 bond, is due in court in Bridgeview on Aug. 21. Police said the victim was between ages 12 and 17 when Favorite allegedly committed the crime
Photo by Anthony Caciopo
Officer Rebecca Buhs (right) unwraps a plate of treats as she and Cadet Brianna Sims work the Badges and Burgers event for local residents.
about their experience. “Any function they have here, we always go to,” said John. “We belong here, we know everybody here. This event was of great value. We trust ‘em,” he said of the police. “We feel comfortable.” “It’s a pleasant get-together,” said Charlene Szymanski. “We
Przemyslaw J. Korkosz, 27, of Chicago, was charged with aggravated speeding following a traffic stop at 3:45 a.m. June 26, in the 12500 block of Southwest Highway (Route 7). Police said he was driving 66 mph in a 40-mph zone. He is due in court on Aug. 25.
Charge two with driving drunk
Orland Park police charged Edgar R. Cervantes Alcantara, 26, of Tampico, Mexico with DUI, improper lane usage, driving without a valid license, driving at an undisclosed place in Orland without headlights when required Park. They added that Favorite was and making an improper turn after they curbed his SUV in the a friend of the victim’s family. 9400 block of West 159th Street Police said that after they heard at 3:07 a.m. July 8. The vehicle the allegation from the victim, they was towed and impounded, and Cervantes Alcantara is expected arrested Favorite at his apartment to appear in court in Bridgeview Favorite on July 25. on Aug. 17. Scott Coppens, 28, of Orland Park, was charged with DUI and improper lane usage after police stopped his SUV near 179th Street and 108th Avenue at 1:08 a.m. June also issued a written warning for view obstruction 30. The vehicle was towed and because the license plate was displayed in the rear impounded, and the police report window. He is due at a hearing in Palos Park Village did not include court information. Hall on Sept. 6.
Possession of cannabis Matthew E. Hasenfang, 21, of Chicago, was issued two local ordinance violations for possession of cannabis and drug paraphernalia following a traffic stop at 7:44 p.m. July 20, in the 9600 block of West 131st Street. Police said he turned over a bag containing marijuana and a glass pipe. He was
Possession of drug paraphernalia Peter M. Revell, 24, of Lemont, was issued a local ordinance violation for possession of drug paraphernalia following a traffic stop at 9:54 a.m. July 24, in the 11700 block of West 117th Street. Police said they detected an odor of cannabis coming from the car and he turned over a glass marijuana pipe and a grinder. He was also issued a written warning for improper lane usage. He is due at a hearing on Sept. 6 in Palos Park Village Hall.
POLICE BLOTTER: PALOS HEIGHTS DUI Joseph H. Bruckman, 23, of Worth, was charged with driving under the influence of alcohol following a traffic stop at 2:29 a.m. July 24, on Ridgeland Avenue. Police said he registered .112 blood-alcohol count on a breath test. He was also cited for improper lane usage and using a cellphone while driving. He is due in court on Sept. 13. Belal Zamat, 18, of Orland Park, was charged with driving under the influence of alcohol following a one-car crash at 2:11 a.m. July 20, in the 6800 block of West 131st St. Police said he was also cited for driving with a suspended license, leaving the scene of a property damage crash, and obstruction of identification for allegedly giving a false name. Court information was not available. Olga M. Trejo, 34, of Chicago, was charged with driving under the influence of alcohol following a traffic stop at 2:56 a.m. Friday, in the 7300 block of Route 83. Police said she failed field sobriety tests and was also cited for improper lane usage. Brian P. Coyne, 56, of Orland Park, was charged with driving under the influence of alcohol at 3:50 a.m. Saturday, in the 7600 block of West 135th Street. Police said he was also cited for improper lane usage. Michal B. Cison, 19, of Burbank, was charged with driving under the influence of alcohol following a traffic stop at 1:04 a.m. Saturday, in the 11700 block of Southwest Highway. Police said he was also cited for speeding. He is due in court on Aug. 21.
Outstanding warrants Mary Ann Rosner, 58, of Palos Heights, was arrested on an outstanding Palos Heights warrant at 11:38 p.m. July 21, in the 13400 block of South Ridgeland Avenue. Police said the warrant was for failure to appear in court on a retail theft charge. She is due in court on Aug. 21.
Dewitt H. Hamilton, 37, of Chicago, was arrested at 4 a.m. July 24, on an outstanding warrant for failure to appear in court on a retail theft charge. He is due in court on Aug. 21.
Aggravated speeding Ryan W. Smith, 20, of Chicago, was charged with aggravated speeding following a traffic stop at 12:44 a.m. July 26, in the 6800 block of West 127th Street. Police said he was driving 55 mph over the speed limit. He was also cited for driving without insurance and having expired registration. He is due in court on Aug. 29. Elijah A. Sledge, 24, of Chicago, was charged with aggravated speeding following a traffic stop at 12:45 a.m. July 26, in the 7000 block of West 127th Street. Police said he was driving 37 mph over the speed limit. He is due in court on Aug. 29.
Suspended license Jeffrey J. McDaniel, 51, of Chicago, was charged with driving with a suspended license following
a traffic stop at 2:16 a.m. July 24, in the 12200 block of South Ridgeland Avenue. Police said he was also cited for making an improper right turn. He is due in court on Aug. 21. Anthony R. Wofford, 26, of Alsip, was charged with driving with a suspended license following a traffic stop at 9:20 a.m. July 25, in the 7800 block of West College Drive. Court information was not available. Kenneth E. Bridges, 27, of Chicago, was charged with driving with a suspended license following a traffic stop at 2:54 a.m. July 25, in the 6600 block of West College Drive. Police said he was also cited for improper passing on left.
Car burglary A purse and backpack were reported stolen out of a vehicle parked in the Palos Evangelical Lutheran Church lot in the 12500 block of South 71st Court at 1:35 p.m. last Thursday. No damage was observed to the vehicle and the doors were locked.
Commercial Loans Made Easy We have a variety of loans to fit your banking needs. Contact our Loan Officers to discuss your options today!
have a good sense of security. (The area) is patrolled all the time.” Mike Sundermeier, a long-time resident of the community, said “I have not attended before but I think it’s a great thing for the neighbors to talk to the officers.” Sundermeier dropped by with his wife, Joann. Their son Bobby is
a police cadet who intends to study criminal justice after graduating Marist High School in Chicago. He is about to enter his senior year. “We’ve lived in Palos Park for 21 years and I’ve loved it every day,” said Sundermeier.
POLICE BLOTTER: ORLAND PARK
POLICE BLOTTER: PALOS PARK Aggravated speeding
Police say Chicago man stole man’s identity
Police charged Chicago resident Gregory E. McClain, 58, with identity theft after he allegedly used the personal information of a 41-yearold Mount Prospect man to attempt
to purchase $2,954 worth of merchandise from the Apple Store in Orland Square Mall at 4:12 p.m. July 1. McClain was due at a bond hearing the following day.
Missouri man charged with leaving dogs in hot SUV Police cited Joshua A. Svejda, 32, of Chesterfield, Mo. with confinement in a motor vehicle after he reportedly left three dogs in a hot SUV for about an hour in the parking lot of Rock Bottom, 16156 S. LaGrange Road, on July 7. Police responding to a 911 call at 5:49 p.m. noted that the weather was sunny and 81 degrees, but that the temperature inside the vehicle seemed higher. Police noted that four of the SUV’s windows were rolled down about two inches and that the dogs appeared to be panting in a labored manner. After being at the scene for about 20 minutes, police opened one of the vehicle’s doors to vent the hot air. An officer also walked over to a nearby animal hospital and got water for the dogs. At 6:35 p.m., Svejda walked out of Rock Bottom and said he had been inside for about
an hour, according to the police report. Svejda is expected to appear at a hearing at the Orland Park Civic Center on Tuesday.
Charge three with retail theft Park Forest resident Marco J. Walker, 19, was charged with retail theft after he allegedly stole two bottles of Hennessey cognac— worth a total of $76—from Mariano’s, 9504 W. 142nd St., at 1:19 p.m. June 23. He was set to appear in court in Bridgeview on July 25. Harvey resident Christopher L. Lewis, 21, was charged with retail theft after he allegedly stole six watches, four shirts and two pairs of pants—with a total value of $373—from Stein Mart, 204 Orland Park Place, at 3:09 p.m. July 3. He was due in court in Bridgeview on July 25. Alsip resident Justin C. Buford, 18, was cited for retail theft after he allegedly stole a mobile phone case valued at $119 from the Apple Store in Orland Square Mall at 4:45 p.m. July 7. He is expected to appear at a hearing at the Orland Park Civic Center on Tuesday.
Serving the Area’s Finest Italian Cuisine CATERING FOR ALL OCCASIONS! Salads, Sides & Potatoes, Pastas, Entrées including Our Signature Chicken Tetrazzini, “Grandma’s Recipe” Homemade Meatballs, Italian Beef, Baked & BBQ Chicken & Much More!
BANQUET ROOMS AVAILABLE AT OUR ORLAND PARK LOCATION!
TRY OUR DELICIOUS THIN CRUST, PAN & DEEP DISH PIZZA! Orland Park
14459 S. LaGrange Rd. Beat The Traffic! Enter on John Humphrey Drive or Have it Delivered!
708.403.9099 • Fax 708.403.9128 Mon-Thurs 10am-10:30pm • Fri-Sat 10am-11:30pm Sun 10am-9:30pm
• Letters of Credit • Lines of Credit • Building Expansion • Building Acquisitions • Commercial Mortgage Loans • Auto and Truck Loans
Dining room opens at 11am Mon-Sat and 12pm on Sun
Contact John Hyland, President; Kenneth Shapiro; or Robert Hoholik today!
1001 S. State St. • Lockport 815.838.9099 • Fax 815.838.9091
12330 S. Harlem Ave., Palos Heights, IL 60463 (708) 728-9900 • Fax (708) 728-9270 • UTBHome.com
3
Mon-Thurs 10am-9:30pm • Fri-Sat 10am-10:30pm Sun 12pm-9:30pm Carry Out, Delivery and Catering Only
www.papajoesrestaurant.com
4 Thursday, August 3, 2017
No funding fix in sight for schools During the lead-up to the recent special legislative session over the state budget and a tax hike, Gov. Bruce Rauner’s staff studied whether their boss had the power to force legislators to attend the sessions. A court ruled during the Rod Blagojevich era that the General Assembly must convene at the date and time ordered by the governor, but Rauner’s staff found nothing in state statutes that gives the governor the power to, for instance, deploy the Illinois State Police to haul legislators to Springfield. You may recall 2011, when several Wisconsin and Indiana Democratic legislators attempted to deny their General Assemblies a quorum by fleeing to Illinois, outside the jurisdiction of their respective state police forces. But, as we’ve seen time and time again, for better or for worse, we aren’t Wisconsin or Indiana. The battle plan to kill the Democrats’ education funding reform bill (Senate Bill 1) that was plotted before Gov. Rauner’s infamous staff purge in early July, and which still appears to be mostly operative, actually anticipated low special-session turnout since there likely wouldn’t be much of anything to vote on. They figured that the Democrats would wait a while before lifting the parliamentary brick off the education funding reform bill -- the better to foment a crisis atmosphere as the clock ticks down to schools reopening after summer break. So, legislators not showing up for session will likely only amplify the governor’s contention that the majority party isn’t interested in preventing a crisis and funding schools. The cops aren’t needed. Overall, the plan devised a while back is pretty good, even though it relies heavily on stoking the flames of regionalism with an unspoken but still clear racial element. Rauner’s “Chicago bailout” card is about the easiest one to throw in this state, and it has been played longer than anyone reading this has been alive. Despite the fact that Downstate pays far less in state taxes than it receives in state benefits, people who live there think Chicago is the place that gets all the taxpayer goodies. It’s actually suburbanites who pay the bills on net, and with their high local property taxes and a recent income tax hike, those folks are probably (and understandably) not thrilled with the idea of bailing out the city’s notorious school system. The bill’s supporters have lined up an impressive list of Downstate and suburban school superintendents in strong support of SB 1. Education groups like Stand for Children (which was, ironically enough, brought to Illinois by then-private citizen Bruce Rauner) have been advertising locally to back the plan. But school superintendents are often resented by local taxpayers for their high salaries. At least one has already been singled out by conservative political activist Dan Proft’s newspaper empire. Proft’s outfit published a snarky article last week about Harrisburg Superintendent Mike Gauch, a prominent SB 1 supporter who is often cited by proponents. The piece noted that Gauch and his wife, a Carbondale public school teacher, make a combined $220,000 per year, plus benefits. “The Gauches represent a new reality in Southern Illinois,” the article claimed, “a public employee power couple whose income ranks them among the wealthiest families in Saline County. Aside from the class warfare angle, the superintendents don’t have a vote in the General Assembly. So, while they can credibly claim all they want that SB 1 isn’t a Chicago bailout, the governor simply counters with his own numbers (which he won’t verify) that Downstate and suburban schools would do much better with his plan (which he refused to disclose for weeks). The idea of using the superintendents was not just to encourage Republican legislators to support SB 1, but to give them ample political cover if they decided to cross the governor and override his veto. But since the governor has concocted his own proposal with his own numbers (which show that schools outside the city will get lots more money than they would under SB 1), that encouragement now means little and the cover is blown. Downstate and suburban Democrats who vote to override his veto are also put in a bind because the governor can claim that those Democrats voted against their districts and for Chicago. Preventing a veto override is the governor’s main effort here, but passing a bill into law that reforms school funding is a whole different matter. Without such a law on the books, billions of dollars of state education formula money can’t be distributed. As I write this, that solution doesn’t seem to be on anyone’s horizon.
OPINION
The Regional News
RICH MILLER
Native Americans deserve better treatment As I ended a road trip to America’s majestic Southwest, I came away with some unexpected feelings, including some I already believed and others that were surprising. I flew to Las Vegas then drove back through Nevada, Arizona, Utah, Colorado and Wyoming before entering the far less visually exciting “Great Plains” of Nebraska, Iowa and Illinois. I was surprised at how it seemed that there were so many more foreigners enjoying the tourist sites rather than Americans themselves. Most tourists I saw at the Grand Canyon, Monument Valley, and many dinosaur discovery sites like the Moenkopi T-Rex and velociraptor footprint site were from countries like France, England, Germany, Israel, Lebanon, Palestine, Israel and a lot from Japan. (The observation is anecdotal, but someone should do a study to determine the facts.) I was also disappointed to see tourists pack places with so much less culture, or nutrition, like McDonald’s and Taco Bell. They were everywhere. Lastly, I was reminded of what I already knew: how terribly this country treats the original Americans, “Native Americans,” from Indian tribes or “nations” that include the Cherokee, Crow, Navajo and others. Native Americans worked some of the big tourist places where I stopped. But most were owned by others. Worse, when I went to purchase cultural
The Business Side
The News Side
Anthony Caciopo, Editor Dermot Connolly, Reporter Jeff Vorva, Sports Editor Lauren Ziemann, Art Director Chuck Ingwersen, Designer
Southwest Regional Publishing 12243 S. Harlem Ave. Palos Heights, IL 60463 Phone: (708) 448-4000 Fax: (708) 448-4012 Website: www.theregionalnews.com email: TheRegional@comcast.net Office hours: Monday-Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Deadlines Editorial: Noon, Saturday • Advertising: 5 p.m., Monday Subscription rates: Local, delivered by mail, $48 a year in advance. Out-of-State, $58 a year. Single copies, $1. Postmaster: Send address changes to THE REGIONAL NEWS, 12243 S. Harlem Ave., Palos Heights, IL 60463 and additional post offices. 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. Entered as periodical mail at the Post Office at Palos Heights, IL, 60643 and additional post offices under the Act of March 3, 1879. © 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.
novelties, I discovered many were “Made in China.” Why would anyone want a little “handmade” doll of a Native American dressed in cultural garb that is “Made in China”? The focus wasn’t on American history or Native American culture. It was all about the money. I had the same uneasy feeling about this country while visiting Hawaii several years ago for the first time. Don’t get me wrong. All of these places in the Southwest and Hawaii take your breath away. But in Hawaii, I also made the mistake of shattering myths, reading history books that contradicted the tourist messages: White Europeans stole everything from the “Natives” in America. In Hawaii, many native Hawaiians won’t speak to white tourists — although the largest tourist group isn’t American or families of World War II veterans, but Japanese. I knew it was bad, but when you see how much was stolen from native Hawaiians and Native Americans, you realize how bad it really is. Throughout the trip, I saw clusters of tattered, dusty tents on the road side with
Ray Hanania is an award-winning columnist, author and former Chicago City Hall reporter. Email him at rghanania@ gmail.com.
READERS WRITE Navy Pier should not be renamed
Dear Editor, I read Ray Hanania’s column all the time, often nodding my head in agreement and sometimes scratching the old hairline in dismay and disagreement. But I always Rich Miller also publishes Capitol Fax, a daily political newslet- read with an open mind and always gain some knowledge out of Ray’s column. ter, and CapitolFax.com. This time, however, I must write to speak an opposing view. Navy Pier should not be named after Jane Byrne, even if she did have a big hand in its revival, as suggested by Mr. Hanania in the July 27, 2017 edition of The Regional News. Navy Pier is named after the Navy, just as Soldier Field is named for soldiers. Navy Pier should stay named the way it is. If it wasn’t for our military the USA wouldn’t have many of the structures we have to be named after anybody. Owned and operated by Southwest Regional Publishing Co. Jim Orlando Orland Park Mark Hornung, Chief Operating Officer Donna Brown, Sales Director Monica Cotter, Finance Director Debbie Perrewe, Classified Manager Mike Russell, Production Director Rita Crosley, Pre-press Manager
RAY HANANIA
sparse displays of jewelry handmade by Native Americans from Navajo tribes. Old women and children sat nearby almost begging for business. I spoke with many Native Americans and they seemed resigned to their fate. The Grand Canyon is really grand. The huge and tall standing stone mountains in Monument Valley are awe-inspiring. Driving through mountain ranges and valleys as high as 10,603 feet in Denver is impressive. It reminded me how beautiful this country is, geographically. But I was left with a bad taste. History I read on the trip exposed ugly truths, such as exaggerated reputations of people like General George Armstrong Custer. He’s no hero. He was a brutal crook. Custer’s “discovery” of gold prompted the government to break more than one treaty with Native American tribes that ignited even more land theft from the tribes. Our real history is all about profits, money and greed. In treaty after treaty, we immigrants abused Native Americans and stole their lands. We massacred their people and when they fought back, we used that to portray them as “savages.” Sorry folks. We’re the savages. And our history is filled with lies.
Ray Hanania responds: Hi, Jim. I do appreciate your view and opinion. As a veteran myself, I understand but if it wasn’t for Byrne, Navy Pier would have been turned into storage for political cronies. She literally saved it from erosion and possible destruction. Several aldermen spoke about rebuilding it as a private boating pier to bring in large yachts.
Palos Park police warn of phone scammers Dear Editor: These callers may demand money or may say you have a refund due and try to trick you into sharing private information. These con artists can sound convinc-
ing when they call. They may know a lot about you, and they usually alter the caller ID to make it look like the IRS is calling. They use fake names and bogus IRS identification badge numbers. If you don’t answer, they often leave an “urgent” callback request. The Palos Park Police Department is following up on yet another telephone scam in which people are deceived by these threatening phone calls. The IRS reminds people that they can know pretty easily when a supposed IRS caller is a fake. Here are five things the scammers often do but the IRS will not do. Any one of these five things is a telltale sign of a scam. The IRS will never: 1. Call to demand immediate payment, nor call about taxes owed without first having mailed you a bill. 2. Demand that you pay taxes without giving you the opportunity to question or appeal the amount they say you owe. 3. Require you to use a specific payment method for your taxes, such as a prepaid debit card. 4. Ask for credit or debit card numbers over the phone. 5. Threaten to bring in local police or other law enforcement groups to have you arrested for not paying. If you get a phone call from someone claiming to be from the IRS and asking for money, here’s what you should do: • If you know you owe taxes or think you might owe, call the IRS at (800) 8291040. The IRS workers can help you with a payment issue. • If you know you don’t owe taxes or have no reason to believe that you do, report the incident to the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration at (800366)-4484. •You can file a complaint using the FTC
Complaint Assistant; choose “other” and then “impostor scams”. If the complaint involves someone impersonating the IRS, include the words “IRS telephone scam” in the notes. Remember, too, the IRS does not use unsolicited email, text messages or any social media to discuss your personal tax issue. For more information on reporting tax scams, go to irs.gov and type “scam” in the search box. Joe Miller Palos Park Chief of Police
It’s time for a new political party Dear Editor, Billions and billions of dollars of tax money have been collected in Illinois. We are taxed from birth to death. House Speaker Mike Madigan, Senate President John Cullerton and their political cronies have run Illinois for nearly 40 years. We have a near-junk bond state rating, we have the highest crime and murder rate in the nation and our roads are like that of third-world countries. Yet these politicians pat themselves on the back that they have passed a budget. They don’t know the meaning of the word. They just tax us suckers and keep on spending and mismanaging the money. We have no accountability. Every time they mismanage our money, they should have to take the errors out of their pots of gold. If any a swamp needed to be drained, it is this one. We do not need a Democratic Party. We do not need a Republican Party. We do not need any phony, crooked politicians. We need an American Party for we, the people. Only then will Illinois survive. Marge L. Lullo Palos Park
Letters Policy The Regional News encourages letters to the editor. Local content is strongly suggested and will be given first consideration. Letters must be signed and the name of the writer will be published. Include your telephone number for verification purposes. Limit letters to no more than 350 words. We reserve the right to edit letters. E-mail letters to: theregional@comcast.net
BUSINESS
The Regional News
FINANCIAL FOCUS
Thursday, August 3, 2017
Crisis Center to raise funds for domestic violence victims
Diversify your investments … but consolidate your providers You have probably heard that diversification is a key to investment success. So, you might think that if diversifying your investments is a good idea, it might also be wise to diversify your investment providers — after all, aren’t two (or more) heads better than one? Before we look at that issue, let’s consider the first half of the “diversification” question – namely, how does diversifying your investment portfolio help you? Consider the two broadest categories of investments: stocks and bonds. Stock prices will move up and down in response to many different factors, including good or bad corporate earnings, corporate management issues, political developments and even natural disasters. Bond prices are not immune to these dynamics, but they are usually more strongly driven by changes in interest rates. To illustrate: If your existing bond pays 2 percent interest, and new bonds are being issued at 3 percent, the value of your bond will fall, because no one will pay you full price for it. (Of course, it may not matter to you anyway, especially if you planned to hold your bond until maturity, at which point you can expect to get your full investment back, providing the bond issuer doesn’t default.) Here’s the key point: Stocks and bonds often move in different directions. If you only own U.S. stocks, you could take a big hit during a market downturn, but if you own domestic and international stocks, bonds, government securities, certificates of deposit and other types of investments, your portfolio may be better protected against market volatility, and you’ll have more opportunities for positive results. (Keep in mind, though, that even a diversified portfolio can’t prevent all losses or guarantee profits.) So, it clearly is a good idea to diversify your investment portfolio. Now, let’s move on to diversifying financial service providers. Why shouldn’t you have one IRA here and another one there, or enlist one advisor to help you with some types of
Edward Jones
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.
AREA PROPERTY TRANSFERS Following are the property transfers in the area, according to the latest report, as received from the Cook County Recorder of Deeds Office. The Regional News does not attempt to correct errors made by that office. Orland Park Chicago Title Land Trust Co Tr to Nkwo Peter, 15060 Holiday Ct, $182,000; Soldat Jason to Motan Balqawi, 7410 Tiffany Dr, $250,000; Trzeciak Jerzy to Krause Jason P, 9449 W 162nd St, $277,000; Budzynski Brian L to Sullivan Robert D, 10409 San Luis Ln, $294,000; Cooper Deborah A to Schultz Michele A, 9369 Waterford Ln, Unit D, $187,500; Kmiecik John C Tr to Kelly Mary M, 10815 Louetta Ln, Unit #89, $230,000; Mokrzycki Michael to Brazdzioniene Angelija, 8937 Silverdale Dr, Unit #3C, $190,500; Lannon Linnea Tr to Kunce Kim Marisa, 7841 W 157th St, Unit #7841204, $156,000; Beechen & Dill Homes LLC to Miller James E Sr, 15200 West Ave, $504,500; Macnamara John Mac to 14001
Creek Crossing LLC, 14001 Creekcrossing Dr, $341,000; Fitzmaurice James C Sr Tr to Gomez Genaro, 8750 Henry St, $295,000; Quinn Mark M Tr to Anderson Roosevelt J Jr, 7841 W 157th St, Unit #7841302, $157,000; Enright Kerry to Cuevas Elise, 9237 Virginia Ct, Unit #701, $143,000; Hayes Joseph to Morales Jose, 7950 Palm Ct, $350,000; Rossi Dorothy A Tr to Matejka John C, 7341 153rd St, Unit #117341, $145,000; Chicago Title Land Trust Co Tr to Alkhatib Riad Am, 10444 Owen Dr, $349,000; Manning Corrie M to Dejong Mary Joanne, 7620 158th Ct, Unit #7620, $194,000; Nebel Kurt III to Cesario Anthony M, 11838 Cormoy Ln, $225,000; Kurtzman Bonnie A to Suleiman Hasan, 17605 Sean Dr, $422,500; Heldak Maria to Rutka Malgorzata, 7325 Tiffany Dr, Unit #3A, $108,000; Dockus Donna to Legenza Edward, 10543 Eagle Ridge Dr, Unit #129, $202,000; South Side T&S Bk Peoria IL to Nichols Matthew R, 15015 Holiday
Mortgage Rates Around the Area First Midwest Bank (as of July 31) 30-year fixed 15-year fixed 30-year fixed Jumbo
RATES APR POINTS 3.875 3.910 0 3.125 3.180 0 4.125 4.170 0
30-year fixed 15-year fixed 10-year fixed
RATES APR POINTS 3.990 4.010 0 3.375 3.411 0 3.250 3.303 0
30-year fixed 20-year fixed 15-year fixed
RATES APR POINTS 3.875 3.988 .25 3.625 3.781 .25 3.125 3.323 .25
30-year fixed 20-year fixed 15-year fixed
RATES 4.00 3.75 3.25
United Trust Bank (as of July 31)
Prospect Savings Bank (as of August 1)
CNB Bank & Trust, N.A. (as of July 31)
All rates subject to change daily. Equal opportunity lenders.
D IDSI SCCOOUUNN TT RRAT ATEESS withoutdiscount discount service. without service.
It’s accident no accidentmore morepeople people trust It’s no trustState StateFarm. Farm. ErikR RNelson, Nelson, Agent Agent Erik 10200S SRoberts Roberts Road Road 10200 Palos Hills, Palos Hills,ILIL60465-1539 60465-1539 Bus: Bus:708-430-7575 708-430-7575 erik.nelson.hr35@statefarm.com erik.nelson.hr35@statefarm.com
P040036 P040036 02/04 02/04
Members of the Crisis Center of South Suburbia Auxiliary plan for the Center’s Walk Against Domestic Violence this coming Saturday, Aug. 5 at the Lake Katherine Nature Center and Botanic Gardens, 7402 Lake Katherine Dr. in Palos Heights. Checkin will be at 8 a.m. The event will happen rain or shine. All proceeds benefit the services provided by the Crisis Center for South Suburbia, a non-profit community organization that provides emergency shelter, legal advocacy and other essential services for individuals and families victimized by domestic violence. Registration is $15 per adult with either a check or money order payable to the CCSS Auxiliary. Members pictured are (from left) Phyllis Cheek, Marie Kaminski, Barb Politano, Irene Ruggio and Kathy Hamilton.
Jim Van Howe investments and a different advisor assisting you with others? Actually, some good reasons exist to consider consolidating all your investment accounts with one provider. For one thing, you’ll keep better track of your assets. Many people do misplace or forget about some of their savings and investments, but this will be far less likely to happen to you if you hold all your accounts in one place. Also, if you have accounts with several different financial service providers, you might be incurring a lot of paperwork — and many fees. You can cut down on clutter and expense by consolidating your accounts. But most important, by placing all your accounts with a single provider, possibly under the supervision of a single financial advisor, you will find it much easier to follow a single, unified investment strategy, based on your goals, risk tolerance and time horizon. You won’t get conflicting advice and you’ll receive clear guidance on important issues, such as the amounts you can afford to withdraw each year from your retirement accounts once you do retire. Diversification and consolidation — one is good for building an investment portfolio, while the other can help you invest more efficiently and effectively. Put the two concepts together, and make them work for you.
StateFarm FarmMutual Mutual Automobile Insurance Company in NJ), Bloomington, IL State Automobile Insurance Company (Not in (Not NJ), Bloomington, IL
Ct, $200,000; Danno Joseph F to Barry Kevin B III, 8849 Golfview Dr, $232,000; Mortgage Equity Conversion Asset Trust 2011-1 to Sparks Sally A, 15700 Foxbend Ct, Unit #157002N, $147,000; Coyne Betty A Tr to Sasso Anthony, 13950 91st Ave, Unit #101, $64,500; Phal Laura to Montgomery Amy L, 15832 Centennial Dr, $230,000. Palos Heights Mary L Duggan Trust to Weiss Robert G, 12462 Nagle Ave, $320,000; Chicago Title Land Trust Co Tr to Augle Kevin, 13305 S Oakview Ct, Unit #13305, $153,000; Weiss Susan L to Ashfaq Muhammad A, 6046 W 129th Pl, $320,000; Doody William P Tr to Gorman Amanda E, 7021 W Edgewood Rd, $310,000.
5
Photo by Pat Bailey
COMINGS & GOINGS
Teavana closing all mall locations Starbucks announced last week that it would close all 379 Teavana stores, which are mostly located in malls, but continue to sell the Teavana brand of tea in its Starbucks locations and as part of its grocery store offerings. In the south suburbs, the move will affect stores at Orland Square Mall in Orland Park and Chicago Ridge Mall in Chicago Ridge, and at Southlake Mall in northwest Indiana. Starbucks said the mall stores were consistently “underperforming.” The company said the closings would be completed by the first quarter of 2018. More than 3,000 workers will be affected, but Starbucks said the workers would be offered positions at Starbucks locations. Seattle-based Starbucks has owned the Teavana chain since 2012.
ALDI to reopen Lockport store ALDI reopened its store in Romeoville last week and is scheduled to reopen its store in Lockport on Friday. Both stores were remodeled as
BOB BONG part of the company’s $1.6 billion plan to remodel stores across the country. About $180 million was earmarked to remodel more than 130 stores in the Chicago marketplace, including Romeoville and Lockport, by 2020. In addition, the company is building a new ALDI store at Harlem and Archer avenues in Chicago’s Garfield Ridge community and another in the former Eurofresh building in Tinley Park. The two new ALDI stores will focus on fresh items, including more robust produce, dairy and bakery sections, and more room for customers’ favorite products. Remodeled stores will also feature a modern design, open ceilings, natural lighting and environmentally-friendly building materials — such as recycled materials, energy-saving refrigeration and LED lighting. The Romeoville store reopened
on July 28 at 398 S. Weber Road, the new Lockport store will reopen at 8:25 a.m. Friday, Aug. 4, at 16060 S. Farrell Road. There will be a ribbon-cutting ceremony, a Golden Ticket giveaway, eco-friendly bag distribution, Produce for a Year sweepstakes and product sampling.
Bradley’s Barber moves in Tinley Bradley’s Barber has opened in its new digs at 16910 S. Oak Park Ave. in Tinley Park. The barbershop moved from its previous home next to the Ace Hardware at 167th Street and Oak Park Avenue. The shop features two licensed barbers and a licensed cosmetologist. Hours are 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday and Thursday, 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Wednesday and Friday, 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday. Closed on Sunday and hours by appointment only on Monday. If you see a new business in town or wonder what happened to an old favorite, drop me a line at bobbong@hotmail.com.
CNB Bank & Trust helps needy students CNB Bank & Trust is hosting its annual school supply drive now through Aug. 11. Those who want to donate pens, pencils, notebooks, loose-leaf paper, backpacks, calculators, facial tissues, paper towels, hand sanitizer, crayons, colored pencils,
highlighters, flash drives and more may drop them off at any CNB branch location—including 12727 S. Ridgeland, Palos Heights, and 5459 W. 159th St., Oak Forest. Monetary donations can be made online at cnbil.com. CNB will match up to $500 in total
online donations to support local children in need. In addition to a wide variety of traditional banking services, CNB also offers investment and trust services.
6 Thursday, August 3, 2017
The Regional News
Break ground for expansion, renovation at Palos Ev. Lutheran Church Ground was broken Sunday to mark the start of a major building renovation at Palos Evangelical Lutheran Church, 12424 S. 71st Ct., Palos Heights. The groundbreaking ceremony took place immediately following the congregation’s final Sunday service in the old building. It represents the culmination of years of planning, according to a statement released by the church office. “Our church has talked about renovating for decades,” said Rick Suchie, chairman of the congregation and a lifelong member of the church. “Our existing building was dedicated in 1949 and hasn’t been significantly renovated or expanded since then. This will be a big transformation.” The $1.2 million construction project, slated to begin in the middle of August, will add nearly 3,000 square feet to the church’s footprint and will include a major overhaul of the existing building. “We’ll be taking the original structure down to the proverbial studs,” says Melissa Dimitri, chair of the church’s building committee. “All of the mechanical infrastructure will be updated and the building itself will include many functional updates, including ADA bathrooms, a kitchenette, more fellowship space, and a ‘cry room’ for parents with small children.” The sanctuary itself will also be overhauled, including a significantly larger space to seat nearly 200 and cosmetic enhancements such as vaulted ceilings, large ornamental windows and a free-standing altar. “While we will always look to preaching the Word as the primary focus, we recognize the need to update the building
Photos by Anthony Caciopo
Pastor Rick Suchie, left, pauses for a moment of prayer prior to the groundbreaking for an expanded Palos Evangelical Lutheran Church. Council members and the pastor of Palos Evangelical Lutheran Church, right, pose for pictures at a groundbreaking for expansion and renovation of their church. The congregation leaders are (from left) DJ Esquivel, Pastor Colin Rieke, Gary Shemanski, Todd Witt, Rick Succhie, Jary Peterson, Joe Wright and Mark Venz.
where that Word is preached in order to provide a more worshipful environment,” says Pastor Colin Rieke, who was installed as the church’s new pastor on July 2. Pastor Rieke, formerly pastor of a mission congregation in Arizona, was
DEATH NOTICES
Construction is expected to last approximately six months. Anticipated dedication date for the new building is sometime in spring, 2018. The congregation will host its regular Saturday evening and Sunday morning services in the multi-purpose room at its adjacent school
building until construction is complete. “It’s an exciting time at Palos Lutheran,” says Pastor Rieke. “We encourage the community to closely watch our website for updates or — better yet — come check out a service in person. Come watch us grow.”
PICK OF THE LITTER
Mary Mical Mary Mical passed away on July 26, 2017, at her home in Palos Heights. She was 91 years old. Born in Sokolow Malopolski, Poland on May 16, 1926, Mary, along with her mother and two older brothers, immigrated to Canada in 1937. There, they were reunited with her father, who had left Poland in 1926 (the year Mary was born), established Canadian citizenship, and worked diligently to save enough money for his family to be able to join him. On a visit to Chicago to attend a wedding, Mary met and subsequently married an American citizen. They settled in Chicago, and Mary eventually gave birth to five children. She worked tirelessly to provide for her family, and to raise them in a loving and happy environment. Mary worked at Lawn Medical Center in Oak Lawn for over 30 years, where she was in charge of the Billing Department. There she enjoyed the greatest respect of her peers and employers for her hard work and loyalty. Some of her deepest friendships were formed there. Her most loving relationships, however, were with her children and their spouses, her grandchildren and their spouses, and her great-grandchildren. Mary loved the holidays. Easter and Christmas were two of her favorite times of the year. She had a knack for decorating, and her home was always beautiful, whatever the season. While raising her children,
Betty Jane Aspel
called by Palos Lutheran’s congregation specifically to help them with outreach. “The new building, while potentially attracting new visitors, also sends a strong message to the community that we are placing a renewed focus on growth and outreach,” he said.
the family traveled to Toronto several times a year. Her children enjoyed those trips immensely, and loved visiting with their Babcia and Dziadzia, aunts, uncles and cousins. As adults, her children loved to take Mary along on their family trips. Some of the most memorable included trips to Hawaii, California, Williamsburg, Churchill, Cedar Point, Michigan and even on a cruise. Mary had a real talent for sewing, knitting, crocheting and embroidery. She made most of her children’s clothes, draperies, bedspreads and so on. For her older daughter’s wedding, she made the bridal gown and veil, as well as all the bridesmaids’ dresses. It made for a truly unique wedding, and created precious memories for her older daughter and her husband. Mary was a lifelong Catholic, and very devoted to her parish. She was able to maintain her sense of humor, lightening the load for her nurses and caregivers, even as her illness progressed. Her funeral mass was celebrated at Incarnation Church on Wednesday, August 2, by Father Ed McLaughlin, interment at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery. She will be missed, but never forgotten, by those whose lives she touched, especially her children and grandchildren. May God bless Mary, and may He continue to bless those of us who were fortunate enough to know and love her.
Orland Park resident Betty Jane Aspel (nee Squier) died July 25. Mrs. Aspel, 91, was a retired administrative assistant at the University of Illinois. She is survived by her daughter, Donna Petersen; sons, James, Daniel (Ursula) and Richard; sister, Charlene Squier; six grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren and a niece. Services were Tuesday from Colonial Chapel in Orland Park to Faith United Methodist Church for a memorial service.
Vets use tests to examine animals’ internal health Dear Dr. Fleming, Sorry to bother you in the restaurant here but I’d like to ask you a question. I was in the clinic last week and got Millie a heartworm test and a lump on her side checked. I was glad to see that your heartworm test also tested her for Lyme disease. Your technician asked if I wanted some extra bloodwork run since we were already drawing a blood sample and Millie is nine years old. I told her to go ahead because I was confused and didn’t know what to do so I let her do it. I remember she said it’s a small chemistry test and a complete blood count. Can you really tell that much for a short test like that? Robert, Worth Dear Robert, Thanks for taking the time to write. It’s a very good question and I am sorry you were confused. One of our goals here to have the best-educated clientele of any clinic in the area. We love to teach and will always take whatever time is necessary to make sure you understand everything we say. Otherwise, we are failing to do our duty to our profession and to you. Our “heartworm” test is really what we call our Arthropod Screen. This advanced Eliza-based test checks a dog for canine heartworm disease, Lyme disease, Anaplasmosis and Ehrlichia. We run that test here in the clinic. If we send that same blood sample out to our reference lab and allow them to run the so-called Arthropod Screen (4DX), they will include a CBC (complete blood count) and a “short” chemistry panel which includes several parameters: BUN, creatinine, glucose, alkaline phosphatase, SGPT, SMDA and total protein. They (and thus we) can offer this “add-on” CBC and short chem panel for about $40 extra cost do to the lab’s high volume and computerized testing. This offer should be available at any clinic that uses a reference laboratory. It really is the best deal in the house. Even though it is not a full panel, a veterinarian can use the information to get a pretty decent look at the internal health of an animal. Some of the disease processes that can be screened for with this test are as follows: A CBC determines the white blood cell count which can indicate, or raise suspicion for, infection, leukemia and various autoimmune diseases; a red blood cell count which can tell if an animal has anemia or even too many red blood cells (polycythemia); the hemoglobin count is obtained, and a high eosinophil count, for example, can indicate allergies or parasitism and, very importantly, a low platelet count can indicate immune medicated thrombocytopenia which can be a fatal dropping
Skin care concerns?
JOHN FLEMING DVM • Prairie StateVet.com of the platelet count. With the chemistry portion of the test the veterinarian can check the SGPT (ALT for the newbies) which, if elevated, can indicate liver disease such as hepatitis or neoplasia, enteritis, pancreatitis, peritonitis, gall bladder disease (cholangitis, cholangiohepatitis), leptospirosis, feline infectious peritonitis, cardiopulmonary disease (hypoxia), feline hepatic lipidosis, liver lobe torsion or cirrhosis. If the BUN is elevated the vet will consider kidney disease, heart disease, Addison’s disease, GI hemorrhage, pyelonephritis, urethral obstruction and certain bladder problems. A low BUN could be associated with Cushing’s disease, or any other of the diseases that cause a pet to overdrink; cirrhosis, urea cycle enzyme deficiency or malnutrition. Creatinine is a test that complements the BUN test and is actually the ISIS marker for determining the stage of renal failure. A low creatinine can be seen in any condition that causes decreased muscle mass. The newest test on both our long and short chemistry panels is SDMA which is a cool test. SDMA will become elevated in a pet entering kidney disease many months before our standard BUN and creatinine tests become elevated. An elevated blood glucose value is seen in diabetes, Cushing’s syndrome, pancreatitis, pheochromocytomas (adrenal gland tumor), pancreas cancer and renal insufficiency. A decreased glucose could indicate liver disease, sepsis, tumor of the pancreas such as pancreatic adenocarcinoma or an insulinoma, hemangiosaarcoma, other carcinomas, Addison’s disease, hypopituitarism, renal failure, and glycogen storage diseases. If the total protein is elevated the veterinarian will have to consider dehydration, chronic inflammatory conditions, infection, and some tumors like multiple myeloma. Decreases in the total protein level could indicate internal hemorrhage, liver failure, GI fluid loss, starvation, maldigestions and absorption, kidney disease and tumor cachexia. Finally, on our short panel is a value called alkaline phosphatase. A high alk-phos can be a pain in the butt for a veterinarian because almost any disorder that affects the liver can cause this enzyme to be elevated. Some of these conditions include biliary tract abnormalities (pancreatitis, bile duct cancer,
Our medical staff
is here to consult with you
OUR PRACTICE ENCOMPASSES
General Dermatology • Skin Cancer/Mohs Surgery SRT Options for Treatment of Skin Cancer
COSMETIC SERVICES INCLUDE
Botox • Chemical Peels • Microdermabrasion Fillers • Sclerotherapy • Laser Hair Removal Laser Skin Rejuvenation
• Dr. Vivek Iyengar • Dr. Manuel Mesirow • Dr. Raymond Vahl • Dr. Arlene Ruiz deLuzuriaga • Dr. Eduardo Moioli • Trina Brucato PA-C • Michelle Ovando PA-C
18425 West Creek Dr. Suite F • Tinley Park 13401 S. Ridgeland Ave. Palos Heights
(708) 444-8300 | Fax (708) 444-8301 | www.mydermdocs.com
Meet our tech Cindy and her seven-month-old Cavalier Frankie. Frankie was born with a heart defect and the breeder was going to put him down. Cindy took Frankie into her heart and soon thereafter took him to Purdue for heart surgery. Surrounding Cindy is the team from Purdue Veterinary College that gave him a new lease on life.
gallbladder stones, gall bladder infection or inflammation, ruptured gall bladder), hepatitis, liver cancer, cirrhosis, toxic hepatitis, feline infections peritonitis, diabetes, Cushing’s syndrome, hyperthyroidism, inflamed bowels, bone cancers and bone infections, Ehrlichiosis, diaphragmatic hernia, or passive liver congestion (due to a bad heart). I hope this helps you see that the extra few dollars you spent was well worth it. Many diseases and problems can be discovered with some very simple tests. Every six months I run a complete blood count, a full chemistry screen, a fecal exam and a thyroid test on all of our dogs, but then again, as a veterinarian, I am acutely aware of what can go wrong with the dogs I love. Dear Readers, Last Monday my seven-year-old granddaughter spent the day with me in the clinic. At lunchtime she and I went to Kismet’s at 151st Street and West Avenue in Orland. We were sitting by a window eating and talking about what we had done in the clinic that morning when a beautiful Bentley pulled up to Kismet’s near the window we were sitting by. I said, “Ashlyn, do you know how much that car costs?” She said, “No, how much?” I said, “Well if I sold my house I could probably buy two of them and if you sold your house you could buy a part of that car.” She said, “Gosh Bubba, you must be making a lot of money at the clinic if you can afford to eat where those people eat!”
Funeral Directory
The Regional News
Thursday, August 3, 2017
7
CROSSWORD PUZZLE
Above: Happiness Is Dancing. Below: Technologic Tappers.
Across 1 “The Aviator” actor Alan 5 Subtle attention-getter 9 Charge the quarterback 14 Enter 15 Indian princess 16 Haunting 17 Boot out 18 __ before: deadline words 19 Gone up 20 Photo caption for Condoleezza with a bowl of pintos? 23 Take for granted 24 Neptune’s domain 25 White lie Supplied photos 28 Fillable flatbreads 31 Ultimatum words 33 “__ as directed” 36 Photo caption for Chris with a sandwich bun? 38 Headlights-in-fog effect 40 Put on television 41 Film spool 42 Photo caption for NFL Hall of Famer Sam with a pastry shell? 47 Farm pen 48 Joins 49 Uncomplaining type 51 Chewie’s shipmate 52 Like many a morning coffee: Abbr. 54 Fake 58 Photo caption for Kevin with his Easter basket? 61 Jeweler’s unit 64 Fat used in baking 65 Bellini’s “Casta diva,” e.g. 66 Love 67 Not busy 68 Become softened by cuteness 69 Study aids 70 Whole bunch from ADC showcases for other venues, said management. De71 Canonized mlles.
American Dance Center now taking fall registration The nationally recognized American Dance Center (ADC) School and Performing Company is now taking registrations for fall classes. Celebrating 47 years in Chicago Southland, ADC has two locations: a two-story Orland Park studio at 10464 West 163rd Pl. and a downtown location in Homewood, 1933 Ridge Rd. Both provide one of the largest facilities and curriculum in the Midwest, according to management. ADC has been voted “Best Dance School in Chicago Southland” for the past 23 years in area-wide public opinion polls. “Selecting a well-respected and long-standing school should be the first concern for students and parents,” said ADC founders and directors Jack and Kathleen Villari. “The ADC professional faculty is dedicated to excellence in dance training and performance.” “Students progress faster with proper technique and personal attention,” said the Villaris. “Parents appreciate the benefits and cost savings. The center’s motto ‘If you believe it, you can achieve it’ is accomplished through personal mentoring within an individualized curriculum. Back-to-back classes and makeup lessons at both locations guarantee convenient scheduling.” The award-winning children division places importance on the formative years with age-appropriate classes for preschool and beginners in creative dance and tumbling. Confidence, progress and friendships continue through junior, teen and adult classes in ballet, pointe, hip-hop, street funk, jazz, modern, contemporary, tap and leaps/turns. Junior Intermediate students are eligible for the Radiance performance team and Senior Intermediate/Advanced dancers may qualify for the ADC Productions team. Auditions will be held at the Orland Park location today, August 3. The time slots are 4 to 6:30 p.m. for Juniors Intermediate and 6:30 to 9 p.m. for Senior Advanced. According to its owners, ADC consistently receives national and international recognition. The
Center has repeatedly represented the State of Illinois at the International Dance Festival in Los Angeles. ADC dancers have also performed at the World Olympics, Atlanta; Disneyland, California; Disney World, Florida; the Orange Bowl halftime show, Miami; Harlem Globetrotters games, Allstate Arena; the Chicago Cultural Center; Chicago Navy Pier; Art Institute of Chicago; Dance Chicago, Athenaeum Theater; Chicago Merchandise Mart; Chicago Bulls games, United Center; Six Flags Great America in Gurnee and Mrs. Illinois/America Pageant, Elgin. The Villaris represented the United States as master teachers at the Asian International Dance Festival in the Philippines. The ADC Ballet Company performed its original ballet, “Hansel and Gretel” for 23 years featuring soloists from New York City Ballet, American Ballet Theater and Bolshoi Ballet of Russia. The 11-year run of their award-winning dinner theater production, “Holiday Fantasy” was named the Area’s Best Live Show and received standing ovations from dance critics and repeat audiences. This year the Center will be celebrating its 48th anniversary with a major student showcase. Complete with designer costumes, original choreography, colorful sets and special lighting effects, the show attracts an audience of more than 5,000 people. Chicago talent agents often book pieces
tailed organization in every aspect of a production of this magnitude promises an enjoyable, fastpaced and smooth running twohour show. Attendees have said, “American Dance Center recitals are like watching a professional Broadway show.” Students travel far to take advantage of the ADC opportunities, according to the organization. “This says a lot about the training. The ADC complex includes six spacious state-of-the-art studios, sprung floors, surround-sound, double-mounted barres, fulllength mirrors, gift and dancewear shop, video, snack and dancers stretch area, spacious lobby, Wi-Fi access and convenient parking,” said the owners. “There is a class for everyone - child, teen, adult, beginner or advanced. Join now and enjoy the fun and benefits of dance.” Orland Park Intermediate/ Advanced season starts Monday, August 28. All other classes in Homewood and Orland Park start Saturday, September 9. Online registration is available at americandancecenter.net. Walk-in registrations are available at both locations from 5 to 7 p.m. Tuesday and Thursday. More information can be obtained by calling (708) 349-4964 for the Orland Park location or (708) 747-4969 for the Homewood facility.
Palos Park Eagle Scouts to reunite Aug. 5 Palos Park Boy Scouts of America Troop 699 is hosting a reunion of all its Eagle Scouts and their families from 3 to 7 p.m. Saturday, Aug, 5, at the Palos Park Village Green, 8901 W. 123rd St. The troop’s first Eagle Scout, Marshall Mortenson, who earned the top rank in 1958, is among those planning to attend and speak at the event. Officials with the Arrowhead District, of which Troop 699 belongs, will also be there. The festivities include opening a time capsule that a previous scoutmaster entrusted to the village of Palos Park in 2002. The time capsule actually dates back to
1985, when it was put in place by a Cubmaster of Pack 3699. Troop 699 opened it and resealed it in 2002. Since then, it has been in a closet under the stairs of the Palos Park Recreation Center. Socializing over a dinner of hot dogs, snacks and drinks is planned from 4:30 to 7 p.m. The family event will also include games for kids. Admission is free for Eagle Scouts and $5 for everyone else. In case of inclement weather, it will be held in the adjoining Rec Center. The planning committee has been unable to contact the fol-
lowing Eagle Scouts: David Rice, Walter Rogers, William A. Dickerhoor, Michael Joseph Baldwin, John Carpenter, Alan Goes, John Serson, Douglas Smith, David B. Carpenter, Ken Musil, William R. Nebe, Steven Kinzel, Kenneth Baldwin, Donald W. Patrick, Howard W. Timm, Randall Lukes, Karl. W. Kosche, Kevin R. Kresnicka, Christopher C. Towery, Erik L. Johnson, Thomas Kierny and Brian Skender. Anyone with their contact information is asked to invite them to the reunion or contact Nancy Graben at ngraben@gmail.com
Down 1 Greek marketplace
2 Jazzman Armstrong 3 Spinal column components 4 Poker dealer’s request 5 Characterized by 6 Material for some castles 7 Supercilious sort 8 Runs out of gas 9 “The Natural” author Malamud 10 Luau keepsakes 11 1040-reviewing org. 12 __ score 13 Path to enlightenment 21 “The Kite Runner” boy 22 Really long time 25 Arctic ice phenomena 26 Land in a river 27 Beer __ 29 Military sch. 30 Decides not to go to 32 Goof up 33 “Yep” 34 Steamy setting 35 Pixielike 37 Stuck in __
39 Many a time, poetically 43 Fizzes up 44 Fraction of a min. 45 Word seen on cornerstones 46 Come across 50 Bath & Body Works products 53 Plays a round 55 Everglades wader 56 Physically well-coordinated 57 Exams for legal wannabes, for short 58 Like floors without rugs 59 Pusher catcher 60 Vicinity 61 Item in a food drive donation 62 Brouhaha 63 Go bad (Answers on page 8)
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 8)
SCHOOL NOTES Children’s school screenings to begin soon Palos Heights School District 128 will conduct a screening for all children residing within district boundaries who are 3 to 5 years of age from 10:30 to 4 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 24 at Indian Hill School, 12800 S. Austin Ave. The Student Services office will begin taking appointments from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Monday, Aug. 7. Parents should contact the Student Services office at (708) 597-1285 to make an appointment or to request additional information. Areas of development assessed 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 the District 128 administration.
Photo by Joe Boyle
WHATIZIT? The clue for this week’s Whatizit photo (above) is: Special support. Send your responses with your name and hometown by noon Monday to the thereporter@comcast.net. We had two readers who came up with the right answer to last week’s photo quiz. The response we were looking for was the gazebo found at the Oak Lawn Village Green, near 94th and Cook Avenue. The winning answers were from Oak Lawn residents Jane Foley and Steve Rosenbaum. The gazebo is a picturesque sight for visitors to the Village Green. It is also where bands perform for the Concerts in the Park during the summer months. The gazebo is also where Mr. and Mrs. Santa Claus can be found at the end of November. The Easter Bunny also visits children at the gazebo.
A Palos Park tradition since 1996
12900 S. LaGrange Road Palos Park • 708-361-5687
A FUN PLACE TO EAT! Buy 1 Lunch or Dinner Entree & 2 Drinks, Get 2nd Entree HALF PRICE Of equal or lesser value. With coupon. Not valid with other offers. Expires 8-31-17.
8 Thursday, August 3, 2017
The Regional News
Celebrate National Farmers Market Week Illinois Philharmonic Orchestra concert, Palos Hospital, Rec Center Salute the Day!
Photo by Mary Compton
Friends dance at Festa Italia
Mary Grace McManigal (left) of Palos Heights dances with her best friend, Jo Ann Horan from Orland Park during the 4th annual Festa Italia held recently in Mokena. The event raises funds for the local Lions Club, St. Mary’s Church in Mokena and other organizations. An estimated 1,800 people attended the event.
The Illinois Philharmonic Orchestra String Quartet will join the Palos Heights Farmers Market on Wednesday, Aug. 9 from 9:45 to 11:25 a.m., playing many classical favorites as a tribute to National Farmers Market week. A rain date of August 16, same time, has been set. The concert will introduce the Palos community to the 2010 “Illinois Professional Orchestra of the Year.” Now entering its 40th season, the Orchestra will be performing the 2017-18 season at Trinity Christian College’s Ozinga Chapel. More information about the IPO can be found at ipomusic. org, or by calling (708) 481-7774. The market would like to thank our sponsors for this concert. Palos Health and Hospital will also be joining the market Aug. 9. Palos Health representatives and nutritionists will be promoting upcoming fall programs, including nutrition classes starting in September. Nutritionists will also have farmers market shopping tips, handouts and more. Finally, the Palos Heights Recreation Department will be on hand with fall programing information, including Little Learners Preschool as well as athletic, children’s, adult and special programs.
Stop by for all the information and giveaways. Congratulations to Sue Andrews of Orland Park, winner of the July Palos Heights Farmers Market Gift Certificate Raffle! All completed and returned Frequent Shopper Cards are entered into the month-end raffle and two more will be held, one each in August and September. The year-end raffle will take place October 18, the last day of the summer market. The best thing about Farmers Markets is the completely freshpicked produce. There is nothing that tastes better, and is healthier for you, than farm-fresh fruits and vegetables. Celebrate the bountiful harvest of all varieties of berries, cherries, apricots, plums, peaches, nectarines, melons and watermelons, peppers, broccoli, cauliflower, tomatoes, beans, beets, carrots, eggplant, onions, corn and more. Large selections of food items are also at the market on a weekly basis. They include breads, mul-
tiple types of bakery items, pies, noodles, cheeses, eggs, butter, jams, jellies, local honey, olive oils, vinegars, beef, pork, chicken, salsas, pasta, barbecue sauces and Italian peppers, three different varieties of ready to eat tamales, pizza and pizza products, ready to bake pizza, pesto, and organic and vegan frozen vegetable patties, soups, desserts, coffee, lattes, peanuts and roasted cashews. Our vendors also have beautiful perennial and annual plants, herbs and fresh-cut flowers. Finally, get ready for summer barbecues and parties with the Pampered Chef, which has everything you will need. Search Facebook for PalosHeightsFarmersMarket, which will showcase all available produce at the start of the market day. Shop early for best selection. Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program Coupon applications continue to be taken at PLOWS Council on Aging, 7808 W. College Drive in Palos Heights. The booklets are available to low-income seniors on a first-come basis. The coupons are good for purchases at the Lyons and Zeldenrust farm stands at the market. Call PLOWS at (708) 361-0219 for more information. At the City Tent, face painting continues to be offered every week from 9 to 12 p.m. Young market guests can pick their favorite design. Also while at the City Tent, be sure to pick up and have
endorsed your Frequent Shopper Card. Receive double credit on your Frequent Shopper Card every week for donations of either canned goods or fresh produce. Canned donations are given to Palos Methodist Church Food Pantry, 12108 S. Harlem Ave. in Palos Heights. Fresh produce is delivered to Operation Blessing, 4901 W. 128th Place in Alsip. While at the City Tent, pick up this week’s recipe, “Parsley Basil Pesto” courtesy of Dr. John Principe. M.D. of WellbeingMD Center for Life. This and some previous years’ recipes will be available. Previous year’ recipes can be found at wellbeingmd.com and palosheights.org. New to the market in 2017, Farmers Market Gift Certificates are available for purchase. They can be purchased for $5 and can be used at the vendors. The market would like to thank this year’s Palos Heights Farmers Market sponsors. They include Dr. John Principe, M.D. of Wellbeing MD Center for Life; Palos Health; The Private Bank; CNB Bank and Trust; United Trust Bank; City of Palos Heights Mayor Bob Straz; Running for Kicks; Golden Shoes and Camille’s Confections. Additional information about the market can be found at palosheights.org and on the market’s Facebook page. Email farmersmarket@palosheights.org, or call 708-361-1800 for more details.
from 4 to 8 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 17 at Crescent Park at the 143rd Street Metra Train Station located at the corner of 143rd Street and Southwest Highway. The Village of Orland Park’s Market at the Park is held Thursday evenings at Crescent through Wednesday, Aug. 31. Orland
Park’s market includes food, gardening, artisan, and handmade products. Additionally, each week will feature live entertainment. Free parking is available in the multi-level parking garage at the corner of Ravinia Avenue and 143rd Street and the Metra Station lot.
free-will offering to a local charity organization. This year’s funds are designated to assist the programs at Operation Blessing. Music selections performed are chosen from the classical masters to the tunes of Broadway, pop and jazz. Included in the program are
selections presented by the Puppeteers of Faith United Methodist Church. Those unable to attend, but who would like to make a contribution, are invited to call the church office at 708-444-8560.
COMMUNITY NOTES Community safety issues being discussed The Palos Township Health Service is hosting a discussion on community safety issues given by the Palos Hills Police Department from 10 to 11 a.m. Wednesday, Aug. 30 at township offices, 10802 S. Roberts Road, Palos Hills.
This event is open to everyone. For more information, call (708) 598-2441.
Orland Park Market at the Park ending soon The Village of Orland Park Market at the Park will be held
HOUSES OF WORSHIP Christ Lutheran begins confirmation registration Christ Lutheran Church, 14700 S. 94th Ave., Orland Park, will begin registration for 5th through 8th grade confirmation classes on Saturday, Aug. 5. Forms will be available through the church office, which is open from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Thursday and from 8:30 a.m. to Photo by Anthony Caciopo 3 p.m. Friday. For more information, call (708) 349-0431. Confirmation With temperatures approaching 90 degrees, Pat Larkin of the Palos Heights classes will be held from 4:45 Public Works Dept. waters one of 55 “Adopt-a-Pot” planters located through- to 6 p.m. and the first day of class out Palos Heights. This one, sponsored by the Misty Meadows Homeowners is Wednesday, Sept. 13.
spiration Benefit Concert, sponsored by Faith United Methodist Church of Orland Park, will be held at 3 p.m. Sunday. The church is located at 15101 W. 80th Ave. in Orland Park. In each of the past four years this community-based concert has donated funds generated from a
What´s in your bowl?
What’s in your bowl?
Planter program spruces up town Association, is located on the 12000 block of South Harlem Avenue. Larkin and fellow Public Works employees irrigate the planters from a city pickup truck carrying a 475-gallon water container. The planters are an annual effort by the Palos Heights Beautification Committee to spruce up the town and raise money for further efforts by the committee. More information about the work done by the Beautification Committee, and how to contribute or get involved, can be obtained by calling City Hall at (708) 361-1800.
Answers
Sudoku
Puzzle on Page 7
AMERICAN DANCE CENTER
Nationally Recognized School & Performing Company
47 Years of Excellence!
★
View teacher bios, photos, schedules
Register at: americandancecenter.net
★
Voted “Best Dance School” 22 Years Straight
- Daily Southtown
Dance in our Spectacular Showcase! June 2018
Where Talent is Born
Award-Winning Youth Division 3 years and up • Pre dance • Beginner Dance • Tumbling
The Joy of Progress Beginner to Advanced
Child • Teen • Adult • Ballet • Tap • Contemporary • Leaps/Turns • Modern • Jazz • Hip-Hop • Street Funk • Performance Teams • Scholarships
Orland Park 708-349-4964 10464 163rd Place Invited as Illinois Delegate 2018 Dance Excellence International 6 Studios • Dancewear Shop Student Evaluations
12301 S. 86th Ave., Palos Park 708-448-0550 www.theplushhorse.com
Lift voices in song at Faith United Methodist benefit The Fifth Annual Summer Sing-
Over 65 flavors. Everyday. All Year. 12301 S. 86th Ave., Palos Park
Puzzle on Page 7
Fall Sign-Up
Over 65 flavors. Everyday. All Year.
Homewood 708-747-4969 1933 Ridge Road
708-448-0550
www.theplushhorse.com
SPORTS The Regional News • The Reporter
Ken Karrson, Sports Editor • sports@regionalpublishing.com Jeff Vorva, Sports Editor • sports@regionalpublishing.com
Southwest Section Southwest • Section•2, Page 1 2, Page 1
Thursday, March August5,3,2015 2017 Thursday,
YOUNGSTERS DAZZLING ON THE DIAMOND
Area schools have heavy hardware T
his spring, we had a three-week period in which five teams from the Regional/Reporter’s 11 area schools brought home Illinois High School Association state trophies. None of them won state championships, but the Mother McAuley girls water polo team, the Brother Rice boys volleyball team, the Marist softball team and the Chicago Christian and St. Laurence baseball teams all hauled hardware. Making the home A few years ago, I researched and Extra Point made a list of all of the area’s state championships. The IHSA purposefully made the championship trophies the same size no matter if a team finished first or fourth. So, this year I visited the handy-dandy IHSA website and headed to the season summaries section and went to work. The area is closing in on 200 TROPHY DASH trophies. After the spring haul, the area has A look at how many Illinois High School As- collected 188 team trophies from sociation state trophies the IHSA. It all started a few months before each of the Regional/ Reporter’s 11 area high I was born, when coach Vern Whitschool varsity teams ney and Oak Lawn took second have won: in state wrestling in 1959 as Ken Sandburg 61 Houston (175 pounds) earned an Mother McAuley 39 individual state title. From that triumph to June 10, Marist 23 14 when Marist’s softball team and Richards Brother Rice 13 St. Laurence’s baseball team each Chicago Christian 11 earned top-four finishes in Class 7 4A in their respective sports, there Oak Lawn St. Laurence 6 have been many dramatic moments, 6 including 65 state championships. Stagg Here is a breakdown, along with Evergreen Park 4 Shepard 4 some interesting facts about these Total 188 elite awards: • Sandburg has the heaviest hardSource: IHSA season summaries ware total with 61 and teams in 15 different sports earned trophies. • Mother McAuley is next on the list with 39. The girls volleyball team, which won a state-best 15 titles, collected 23 total trophies. • McAuley also earned 12 trophies in water polo. Given the unpredictable nature of high school sports, it’s rare that I will come out and predict top-four finishes for teams, but the 2017 version of the Macs finished fourth in the state without any seniors and with a transfer and talented freshman expected to be on the roster, so… Oh, and many of those players just won the American Water Polo National Stage Challenge in July, so… • From 2007-11, Chicago Christian’s girls volleyball team won four trophies, including a championship in Class 2A. The Knights have some talent returning from a 27-win team and they are back in Class 2A after spending the last five trophy-less seasons in Class 3A, so…
JEFF VORVA
Photos by Jeff Vorva
Lindsey Long of the Orland Sparks, left slides by Palos Power pitcher Emma Faubel for a run in the 12U Illinois Power League title game.
Area softball Powers collide Orland Sparks’ 12U wins Power League title, while 10U takes second
See VORVA, Page 3
By Jeff Vorva Sports Editor
There is a nice reward for success in the Illinois Power League. The Game Day USA Softball officials have arranged it so that those teams that make it to the semifinals and finals in their respective age groups get to play their games in a professional park — The Ballpark at Rosemont, home of the Chicago Bandits. The Orland Sparks had two teams make it to the championship game on July 26, and there was a split decision. The 12U team beat its neighbors, the Palos Power 10-3, See SPARKS, Page 3 Above: Orland Sparks shortstop Kelsey Oliver (left) puts the tag on Palos Power baserunner Lily Ceretto in the Sparks’ 10-3 victory in the Illinois Power League 12U title game on July 26 in Rosemont. Left: Orland Sparks pitcher Paige Thomas fires a pitch against the Palos Power.
Palos Power builds an impressive resume By Jeff Vorva Sports Editor
Time is winding down on Heath Faubel’s term as the Palos Power’s president. And he is having the time of his life. Under his watch, the Power’s 12U team became the first team in the eight years of the organization to win a state championship. The Power’s 10U hybrid (an all-star team made up of recreation league players) squad put on an incredible three-tournament run, outscoring opponents 251-20 in a 19-game stretch. And the 16U team finished second in the Illinois Power League Championship Tournament on June 26 at the Ballpark of Rosemont. “My daughter (Emma) is the starting pitcher for the 12U team so I am proud as
Photo by Jeff Vorva
Mother McAuley’s water polo team won a state fourth-place trophy in May and could be in line for a few more in the coming seasons.
See PALOS POWER, Page 3
OUTDOOR PATIO
LIVE ENTERTAINMENT
Saturday 6-10 p.m. | Sunday 5-9 p.m.
KARAOKE
Friday 8:30 p.m.-12:30 a.m.
BANQUET ROOM Up to 100 people Available for all occasions 2 FOR 1 PASTA TUESDAY
Serving Chicken, Veal, Steaks, Ribs, Pork Chops, Seafood, Pasta, Pizza, Sandwiches
Mama Vesuvio’s East
Hours: Mon.-Thurs. 2 p.m.-12 a.m. | Fri. 2 p.m.-2 a.m. | Sat. 11 a.m.-2 a.m. | Sun. 12 p.m.-12 a.m.
6361 College Dr. Palos Heights 708-371-2500 www.mamavesuvio.com
DINE-IN SPECIAL
50% OFF ENTRÉE
Buy one entrée, get the second of equal or lesser value at 50% off Mama Vesuvio’s East 6361 College Dr. | Palos Heights Not valid with any other offer. Expires 8/31/17. Regional/Reporter
2
Section 2 Thursday, August 3, 2017
The Regional News - The Reporter
CHICAGO FIRE ANALYSIS
We’re waiting for Gov’s autograph on crossbow legislation
Accam is hot, but Fire is not By Jeff Vorva
NEW ENGLAND REVOLUTION AT CHICAGO FIRE
Sports Editor
Since the CONCACAF break, the Chicago Fire has gone 0-2-0 and has just three goals in those contests. David Accam has two of them and the other came on an own-goal from Sporting Kansas City’s Matt Besler, so Accam has been the team’s only scoring offense. Heading into this week’s action, Accam is tied for third in Major League Soccer with 12 goals, but there appears to be some strife between the star from Ghana and coach Veljko Paunovic. Paunovic did not select Accam to the MSL All-Star team, which faced Real Madrid on Wednesday night at Soldier Field in Chicago, and that caused a little stir. “I am disappointed because I think I played really well, especially coming from your own coach, it makes it even worse,” Accam told reporters last week, before scoring his 12th goal in a 3-2 road loss to Sporting KC. “Personally, I know I’m doing well. I’ve scored 11 goals, seven assists this season. That is the pride I have. I’m doing well and I know I’m doing well even though I’m disappointed my coach ignored me, but I’ll still keep going.” Accan said he spoke with Paunovic about the decision and would not elaborate about how the conversation went, but he said “that’s his decision.’’ Paunovic, who picked reserves after the fans selected the starting 11, selected Dax McCarty and Johan Kappelhoff after the fans picked Nemanja Nikolic
G
WHEN: 7:30 p.m. Saturday WHERE: Toyota Park, Bridgeview FIRE’S RECORD: 11-5-5 REVOLUTION’S RECORD: 7-9-5 NOTEWORTHY: The Fire is 2-0-0 this season against New England, winning 3-0 at home on April 15 and 2-1 in New England on June 17. The Revolution won its last two games and scored seven goals. Kei Kamara had three of them.
and Bastian Schweinsteiger. “It’s not easy when you have to pick guys from your team, and some guys that you also think they deserve to be there you can’t just because of the limitations,” Paunovic told Comcast SportsNet Chicago. “That’s how it is.” Accam did not start against KC. He came into the game at the 55th minute and scored in the 78th minute. He also didn’t start in a 2-1 road loss against New York City FC. He entered that game in the second half and scored in the 54th minute. In a Fire news release, he was referred to as a “super sub.” It doesn’t appear he is injured, yet he is coming off the bench despite impressive productivity. “Of course, David is important for our team,”
Photo by Jeff Vorva
Even though David Accam has supplied the Chicago Fire’s only offense the past two games, he feels like he was slighted by coach Veljko Paunovic for not selecting him to the MLS All-Star team.
Paunovic said after the KC match. There have been rumblings that Accam wants to play in Europe and last year, it seemed the Fire was interested in pinning him down for several years. But if he is unhappy with the All-Star decision and playing time, all bets are off.
Let’s be careful out there!
CHICAGO FIRE NOTES
Even with current skid, Fire should comfortably make playoffs By Jeff Vorva Sports Editor
With a two-game losing streak, the Chicago Fire lost a lot of ground as it enters this week’s action with 38 points — five behind first-place Toronto FC in the Eastern Conference of Major League Soccer. Despite the skid, the team should be in solid shape for its first playoff appearance since 2012 and second since 2009. The past two seasons, the MLS opened the door for six teams in each conference to make the playoffs. In 2015, it took 42 points to make it to the playoffs. In 2016, it took 49. The Fire has 13 more regular-season games — seven at home at Toyota Park in Bridgeview. It has been
magnificent at home, averaging 2.8 points per home match thanks to a 9-0-1 mark. The team struggles on the road with a 1.4-points showing per game with a 2-5-4 mark. So, adding it all up, if the Fire keeps up this current pace, it will collect 27 more points to bring it up to 65 — more than enough to qualify.
Aches and pains Goalie Jorge Bava is nursing an injured left elbow, and if the 35-year-old has surgery on it, he will be likely out for the rest of the season, team officials said. Bava started the first eight games of the season and had three shutouts while racking up 20 saves in 720 minutes. He gave up 12 goals and posted a 3-2-2 record before giving way to Matt Lampson.
Form-ula The Fire is hoping to snap its two-game losing streak Saturday at home against New England. “It’s tough to come back from the break and have two games on the road,” Juninho said after Saturday’s Sporting Kansas City loss. “We knew that from the beginning and we were looking to get points. It doesn’t matter home or away, that’s our mentality. This time we couldn’t succeed, but we are still looking to get back in form.”
All-Star coverage This week’s MLS All-Star soccer matches took place after this newspaper’s deadline. Stories and photos will be provided next week
FOCUS ON COLLEGE SPORTS
Evergreen Park bowler signs up with St. Xavier squad By Jeff Vorva Sports Editor
The inaugural bowling season for St. Xavier is coming soon and Cougars coach Michael Kay has signed two men and a woman for his two squads. Evergreen Park’s Eric Brouwer head the list, as the 6-foot-6 junior carried a 215 average in 2013 and owns a pair of perfect games. “Eric has been a pleasure to work with so far,” Kay said. “He has a lot of league experience, but will have to work hard on the college patterns to find success. He is always looking to get better and absorbs instruction well and I have no doubt he will be able to help us in our inaugural season.” Trever Siefert, who was named Streator’s Most Valuable Player after helping the team qualify for sectionals, is another recruit for the men’s team. For the women’s team, Key signed Plainfield Central’s Heather Petkewicz. She shot a 1,285 to win Strikefest, considered one of the top regular-season girls bowling tournaments in the state, in December. She also advanced out of the Plainfield South Regional to qualify for sectionals in February, shooting a combined score of 1,187. Scholarly athletes: With the women’s golf team and women’s basketball team both boasting team grade-point averages of 3.54 and 3.53, respectively, leading the way, the SXU program had 11 teams recognized as NAIA Scholar Teams. The SXU athletics department has 19 varsity sports.
overnor Bruce Rauner has had his hands full with the Illinois budget in recent months, but hunters are anxiously awaiting for him to take a few seconds for his signature on a bill that could impact them. The Illinois House passed Senate Bill 1467 and sent it to the desk of Governor Rauner. SB 1467, sponsored by senators Neil Anderson, Pamela J. Althoff and Dale FowlOUTDOORS er along with Representative Jerry Costello WITH would allow hunters JIM KIRBY II, to use a crossbow during Illinois’ official bowhunting season. Previously, individuals were allowed to use a crossbow only for the taking of game if they had a physical disability that prevented them from being able to draw a traditional bow. This legislation seeks to improve hunter retention in the Land of Lincoln as well as allow for a wider range of hunters to go afield during archery season and enjoy Illinois’ rich hunting tradition.
“This is a great achievement for our department, because our coaches know that, first and foremost, our athletes are here to get a quality education,” said Saint Xavier University Athletics Director Bob Hallberg. “Recognitions like these showcase that commitment. I could not be more proud of this accomplishment.” Longtime SID Huizenga leaves: After a 14-year stint as the school’s sports information director and the last seven in an upper athletics administration role, Associate Athletics Director for Sports Information Rob Huizenga has resigned from his position at SXU to accept a similar position at Purdue University-Northwest (Ind.). Huizenga has helped the Saint Xavier Athletics Department secure a large amount of media exposure around the Chicago area as well as regionally and nationally since joining the University in 2003. His efforts have also helped numerous studentathletes garner national awards and recognition, including four CoSIDA Academic All-America Team Member of the Year awards, the Fred Mitchell Award, a National Football Foundation Scholar-Athlete National Finalist and multiple NAIA National Player of the Year awards. “This was an extremely tough decision to make, because I have sincerely enjoyed my career at Saint Xavier University,” said Huizenga. “It is hard to leave the family atmosphere that I’ve grown accustomed to here. I’m very excited about my new opportunity at Purdue-Northwest and can’t wait to get started. I wish Saint Xavier University Athletics nothing but
the best as we both move forward.”
Moraine Valley Soccer: The reigning Illinois Skyway Collegiate Conference and NJCAA Region IV championship women’s soccer team is holding tryouts from 10 a.m. to noon on Saturday in the Building H gym. All full-time Moraine Valley students are eligible to participate. Contact Coach Al Palar at 708-974-5237 or albert.palar@morainevalley.edu for more information. Baseball: The Cyclones baseball team is holding tryouts for the 2017-18 season at 3 p.m. Aug. 25 and 11 a.m. Aug. 26 on the field southwest of Building H. All full-time Moraine Valley students are eligible to participate. For more information, contact head Coach Hugh Dennehy at 708-974-5298 or hugh.dennehy@morainevalley.edu.
Trinity Christian Golf outing: The annual Trinity Athletics Club Golf Classic will be held on Aug. 14, at Calumet Country Club in Homewood. The event begins at 11 a.m. with registration and is followed by a lunch buffet. The four-person scramble golf begins with a 1 p.m. shotgun start. A hors d’oeuvres reception and awards ceremony will conclude the day. Information and registration can be found at https:// giving.trnty.edu/tacgolf or contact Dennis Harms at 708-239-4819 or dennis.harms@trnty.edu.
Throughout the year, many people operate motor-driven watercraft on Illinois waters and many operate for the first time. The Department of Natural Resources encourages individuals — both novice and experienced — to take a boating safety course. No person under 10 years of age is allowed to operate a motorboat. Ages 10 to 12 years can operate only under guardian control. Persons between 12 and 18 may not operate a motorboat with over 10 horsepower without a valid boating safety certificate.
New kayaks at Old Town For 120 years, expert craftsmen from Old Town Canoes and Kayaks in Old Town, Maine have built some of the world’s finest watercraft. Now, the veteran watercraft engineers at Old Town are once again leading the way in forward-thinking design with two new touring kayaks that debuted at Outdoor Retailer. The new touring series focused on fit and comfort, made its debut at the renowned Outdoor Retailer Expo July 2529. The kayaks provide the benefits of a traditional touring kayak in a more comfortable, user-friendly package. Both solve an age-old conundrum of avid kayakers: how to find a custom fit touring kayak at a reasonable price.
Outdoor Calendar Aug. 11-20: Illinois State Fair, Springfield. There will be youth fishing clinics and more in the Fisheries Tent. Aug. 10: Midwest Musky Club meeting the Village Sportsman Club, 115th and Laramie Avenue, Alsip, 7:30 pm. A multi-species family-oriented fishing club, always looking for new members. For info, call John Sutton, 773-233-1481. Aug. 16-31: Residents may apply for duck and goose permits, first lottery. Aug. 17: Fish Tales Fishing Club meeting, 7 p.m., at the Oak Forest Community Center, 15501 Kilpatrick, Oak Forest. This is a non-competitive multi-species fishing club. For more information, visit the website at www.fishtalesfishingclub. com. Aug. 18: Non-resident/resident firearm and muzzleloader deer permits third lottery closes.
Big business
Tough loss, but Thunderbolts are still in the playoff hunt
U.S. commercial and recreational fishing generated $208 billion in sales, contributed $97 billion to the gross domestic product, and supported 1.6 million full and part-time jobs in 2015 — above the five-year average, according to NOAA’s Fisheries Economics of the United States’ recently released report.
By Jeff Vorva
License sales on the rise
FOCUS ON THE WINDY CITY THUNDERBOLTS
Sports Editor
The Windy City ThunderBolts suffered a gutwrenching loss on Sunday but still enter this week in the playoff picture. The T-Bolts had a 5-0 lead Sunday against Southern Illinois at Rent One Park in Marion, but Windy City pitching allowed eight walks and
T-Bolts fell 6-5. The T-Bolts entered this week’s action with a 36-29 mark and are still in the mix for one of the four spots in the playoffs as a wild-card team. They were a half-game ahead of Washington for the second-best record in the East Division for the fourth spot. Larry Bilkwill hit his 11th homer of the season and Riley Krane drove in two runs in Sunday’s
loss. Southern Illinois had fonly our hits.
Coming up The Bolts host Joliet at 7:05 p.m. tonight, Thursday, to close out a three-game series. They open a three-game series with Traverse City with a 7:05 p.m. game on Friday, a 6:05 p.m. game on Saturday (with fireworks after the game) and 5:05 p.m. on Sunday (which will feature a petting zoo).
FOCUS ON COMMUNITY SPORTS
The Evergreen Park boys club 13U team, shown after winning a Babe Ruth League state title, fi ished second in regional play.
Evergreen Park’s 13U team just misses World Series bid The Evergreen Park Boys Club 13U team was a game away from making it to the Babe Ruth League World Series and dropped a game to Jasper County (from Southern Illinois) in the title game of the Ohio Valley Regional on Sunday in Munster, Ind. The team, which has been together since the athletes were 10, won its third state championship on July 23 in LaGrange. EP beat Russell County (Kentucky) 8-4, Kokomo (Indiana) 10-1, and Macomb Clinton (Michigan) 21-2 in regional pool play. It beat Hammond 5-1 in the semifinals. Players on the team are Nolan Bruce, Quinn Clifford,
Conor Durkin, Ryan Ewart, Kevin Gilhooly, Liam Lyons, Michael Mixan, Will Moonan, Sammy Rogers, Tadhg Scanlon, Connor Tyrell and Gavin Ward. The head coach is Pat Gilhooly and assistants are Mark Bruce, Bart Clifford, Dan Durkin, Dave Ewart, Tim Lyons and Ken Moonan.
Stampede tryouts The Stampede Baseball Organization is holding tryouts for the 2018 season for age groups U13-18 on Sunday and August 6 at Stagg High School, 8015 W. 111th St., in Palos Hills. Registration is at 9:30 a.m. and tryouts are 10 a.m. to noon.
Supplied photo
The SBO also is looking for qualified managers at various age groups. The organization has a Cooperstown bid for the U12 team. Athletes only need to show up for one tryout session. Visit www.palosstampede. com to complete the registra-
tion & medical release forms. For those who can’t make it to either tryout date, call Mark Zaremba at 708-369-2090.
EBT Skills Camp
eighth grades Tuesday through Thursday at the Swanson Center 6652 S. 7th Ave. in Bedford Park. Cost is $100. For more information, contact elitebasketballtraining@yahoo.com.
Elite Basketball Training will host a skills camp for boys entering fifth through
We welcome community sports news at sports@regionalpublishing.com
Two new reports show positive trends for fishing, with data revealing increases in Hispanic, youth and female participation. Fishing is again the No.2 most popular adult outdoor activity, but is closing in on the No. 1 activity — jogging. The Recreational Boating & Fishing Foundation said the increase is being reported by the USFWS and the Outdoor Foundation. Even more encouraging is that it marks the third consecutive year of increases in license sales after a long period of stagnant sales.
Wingshooting clinics Wingshooting clinics will be conducted this summer and fall in Illinois at Illinois Department of Natural Resources sites, cooperating gun clubs and hunting preserves. Most clinics are conducted on weekends. Wingshooting clinics for youth (ages 10-to-15) and women provide instruction on safely firing a shotgun at a moving target with reasonable reliability. Hunter wingshooting clinics are hands-on and include extensive live fire at a variety of clay target presentations on sporting clays courses specifically designed for teaching typical hunting situations.
Think about it The older we get, the fewer things seem worth waiting in line for. Jim Kirby’s column appears every first and third Wednesday of the month. E-mail him at Kirbyoutdoors@sbcglobal.net.
The Regional News - The Reporter
Thursday, August 3, 2017 Section 2
3
FOCUS ON HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS
Boehm chosen to play in Blue-Grey Bowl; CC hires new athletic director By Jeff Vorva Sports Editor
Evergreen Park resident Nick Boehm, a senior at De La Salle, has been chosen to participate in the 2018 Blue-Grey AllAmerican Bowl on Jan. 22. The offensive/defensive lineman is one of 90 players who made the final roster and survived a field of 6,800 nominated players from across the nation. The bluegrayfootball.com website’s scouting report said Boehm “has what it takes to make an immediate impact at the next level, perhaps the Pioneer Football League.’’ The 6-foot-3, 290-pound Boehm is a three-year starter for De La Salle and earned spots on the 2015 and 2016 AllChicago Catholic League Green Teams. His father, Mike, is the De La Salle coach, and he is happy for his son.
Supplied photo
Nick Boehm, an Evergreen Park resident playing at De La Salle, will play in the BlueGrey Bowl in January.
“This is an outstanding honor for Nick,” Mike Boehm said. “This is a testament to all the hard work that Nick has put in
during his four years at De La Salle. If you set goals and are more than willing to work for them, they can be achieved. “Everyone at our school is justifiably very proud of Nick. This is a great honor for De La Salle, the Meteor football program and Nick. I’m very happy for him.” Last year, the Meteors opened the season winning five straight games including a 57-0 victory over Robeson and a 53-12 triumph over Aurora Christian, but they lost their last four games against Montini, Mt. Carmel, Marmion and Fenwick and didn’t qualify for the Illinois High School Association playoffs. The Meteors open the 2017 campaign Aug. 25, hosting Niles North at St. Rita.
CC hires Zylstra as AD Mark Zylstra was planning on starting a new job as an assistant athletic director at Living Word Christian High School
in the St. Louis suburbs. But Chicago Christian came calling. Zylstra started his new job as the Knights’ athletic director on July 24, and the 27-year-old has his work cut out for him. There are two vacancies on the staff that need immediate attention. Former athletic director/baseball coach Eric Brauer left the school after the spring season to become the baseball coach at Lincoln-Way East, so the baseball job is open. Brauer led the Knights to their best season in school history with 40 victories and a third-place finish in the Illinois High School Association Class 2A state tournament. Also, longtime girls track coach Jim Kwasteniet, who guided the Knights to three Class A state championships in the 1990s retired. “We’re in the early stages of trying to figure out what’s going to happen with
those two spots,” Zylstra said. “We’ll be working on the hiring process very soon. We’re going to take pride in hiring good people across the board whether they are high or low profile sports.’’ Now that it’s August, will there be quality candidates available? “I don’t have a strong answer for that, but we’ll get the ball rolling and see who is out there,” he said. Zylstra ran cross country and track at Timothy Christian and played Ultimate Frisbee at Calvin College. While he has no direct personal ties to Chicago Christian, he married Rebecca Kamp, a former CC volleyball star whom he met at Calvin. The assistant AD job at Living Word Christian was going to be his first administrative job. Now he is bumped up. “It’s been a real whirlwind,” he said. “I’m learning the ropes and getting a feel for everything.’’
Palos Power
Continued from Page 1 the president and I’m proud as a parent,” Faubel said. “I’m enjoying this season from all facets. “We started with a rec league. Then it grew and we started some part-time travel. Now we’re doing fulltime travel and we’re having some success at that level. We’re just growing. There are some programs that are collapsing, and we’re growing.’’ The 12U team, which won a National Softball Association state title in Kankakee, was seeded seventh in the Illinois Power League Championship tournament and finished second as it dropped a 10-3 decision to the Orland Sparks on June 26. Members of the team, coached by Jim Tsenes, are Faubel, Jai Gutierrez, Jessica Vollen, Kayli Workman, Cassidy Ostema, Mary Murray, Macy Sera, Madison Snee, Kylie Sloan, Olivia Tsenes, Jordin Brock, Ava Zukowski and Lily Ceretto. The 10U squad won the Palos Power Tournament on July 23, the Homewood Invitational on July 16 and the Orland Lightning Tournament on July 9. The team which won 32 of its first 36 games with 22 shutous, is managed by Brian Burke and assisted by Scott Bille, Jenny Greene and Mark Jarmoszka. The roster features Ameli Sanchez, Emma Greene, Adri Bille, Nikki Swiney, Emily Purtill, Mari Jarmoszka, Ava Fritz, Ella Byrne, Drew Blackburn, Emma Burke and Courtney Stoub. The 16U team lost to Elmhurst in the Chicago Power League Championship tournament. Players on coach Patrick Regan’s roster are Morgan Bizzotto, Judi Levine, Emma Cunnea, Emma Shea, Kali Alsup, Bri Dvorak, Jourdan Biocic, Emily Odenbach, Mikayla Flanagan, Faith Bruinius, Julia Mooncotch, Jysell Garcia and Rebecca Harkala.
Photo by Jeff Vorva
The home plate umpire kicks and dances between innings of the Illinois Power League 12U title game while the song “YMCA” is playing on the public address speakers.
Photo by Jeff Vorva
Orland Sparks third baseman Amanda Zbonski fields a grounder and fires to first against Palos on July 26.
Photo by Jeff Vorva
Palos infielder Ava Zukowski concentrates before catching a popup against the Orland Sparks. The 12U Orland Sparks team poses after winning the Illinois Power League title in Rosemont. Supplied photo
Sparks
Continued from Page 1 thanks in part to a six-run first inning. The Sparks’ 10U team dropped a 9-5 championship contest to the LincolnWay Storm. There were plenty of upsets in the 12-team 10U division. To get to the title game, the fifth-seeded Sparks topped the fourth-seeded Bash Bombers and eliminated the ninth-seeded Bolingbrook Panthers in the semifinals. Then, they beat the seventhseeded Power for the championship. Members of Sparks’ coach Mike Sinal’s squad are Erin Donaire, Mia Magnabosco, MJ Hochgraber, Cami Sinal, Morgan Magnabosco, Kelsey Oliver, Tori Richardson, Amanda Zbonski, Nattie Gomez, Paige Thomas, Lindsey Long, Emma Salis and Ava Jeziorski. The 10U brackets fell into place with top-seeded Lincoln-Way facing the second-seeded Sparks. A five-run second inning by the Storm doomed the Sparks. Members of coach Kim Hochgraber’s squad are Maddy Alford, Yani Espinoza Toni Purchas, Lauren Bogard, Star Sutherland, Bella Woodward, Brooklyn Kuna, Rebecca Urbanik, Paige Doranski, Maddie Queen, Morgan Kindy and Essie Loth.
Vorva
Continued from Page 1 • The three trophies that Chicago Christian’s girls track team won were all Class A state championships in 1990, 1991 and 1992. • McAuley’s girls volleyball and water polo teams and Sandburg’s boys volleyball team and girls softball teams are the only programs to win at least one first-, second-, third- and fourth-place trophy. • Seven of Richards’ 14 trophies were state championships. Also, the Bulldogs won the inaugural state boys volleyball tournament in 1991, and when the boys state basketball format went from two classes to four in 2007-08, the Bulldogs won the
The Palos 10U team was red hot for a three-tournament stretch.
The 12U Palos Power fin shed in second place in the Illinois Power League title game but met some members of the Chicago Bandits on June 26.
Supplied photo
Supplied photo
The Orland Sparks 10U team fin shed in second place in the Illinois Power League Championship tournament. Supplied photo
Supplied photo
The 16U Palos Power team claimed second in the Illinois Power League tournament.
first Class 4A title. • Remember when some people were aghast that Marist let in female students in 2002-03? Well, it didn’t hurt the athletic program. The RedHawks’ girls team won seven of the school’s 23 trophies in 15 seasons. • Five of Oak Lawn’s seven trophies are for second place. The new high school season is not too far away. It will probably take a few years before we put No. 200 in the mythical trophy room, but it’s something that will be fun to watch.
University of Montana, but first, during the final few weeks before the campus sports get rolling, he has been covering ZooTown All-Star softball action for the paper. There are so many jokes here, but I’ll leave it alone. Anyway, he did great work for us and I think the Gogola-inMissoula connection will work quite well.
Sad he is gone
Glad he is gone One of our sports correspondents, Frank Gogola has left the area and is now working as a full-time sports writer for the Missoulian newspaper in Missoula, Montana.
Photo by Jeff Vorva
St. Laurence’s baseball team shows off the Class 4A trophy it won in June. It’s the 188th state trophy won by an area team.
I am glad he is gone because he is a great young talent and deserves full-time work. I wish
he was a little closer, but you have to go where the jobs are. His main beat is covering the
In another departure, longtime St. Xavier University sports information director Rob Huizenga left last week and is working for Purdue University Northwest, which is becoming an NCAA Division II school this season. For 14 years, Huizenga has served as a behind-the-scenes
type of guy who has helped promote teams and athletes from the Chicago school with aplomb. I have dozens of stories in which he has helped this newspaper, but my favorite was last year when star pitcher Nicole Nonnemacher struck out 42 batters on the road in a doubleheader against a decent-hitting St. Ambrose team. The DH was on Saturday and I e-mailed him about the possibility of interviewing Nonnemacher on Sunday. A few minutes later, I get a call from Nonnemacher, who was travelling on the bus home from Davenport, Iowa. That’s the kind of service Rob was known for. So, sports editors and writers from the Chicago area are going to miss this guy. The writers in Indiana are in for a treat.
4
Section 2 Thursday, August 3, 2017
The Regional News - The Reporter
IT’S TIME TO TRADE THE STUFF YOU DON’T WANT FOR THE STUFF YOU DO WANT:
CASH! y a d o t le a s e g a r a g Advertise your Get a great deal on a garage sale ad in The Regional News and Reporter Newspaper
for one low price
20 Words for $25 Deadline each Monday at 5:00 p.m.
HOW TO PLAN A SUCCESSFUL GARAGE SALE Call 708-448-4000 or 708-448-6161 12243 S. Harlem Ave., Palos Heights
The Regional News - The Reporter
448-6161
For Rent
8 Lake Katherine Way Palos Heights
HICKORY HILLS CONDO
Simply the best townhome that scenic Lake Katherine has to offer. Enjoy lake views from most rooms. 3 car garage, attached. Offered at $415,000
Quiet, clean, 2nd floor. In-unit laundry, garage. Many new updates. Non-smoking building, no pets. Hickory Hills off 95th St. For more info, call 630-243-7390
POTENTIAL TO BECOME SPECTACULAR! FABULOUS MOVE-IN CONDITION TOWNHOME ON COVE California style ranch on wooded .8+ acre across from Forest end unit, Circle Lane. Open floorplan, Preserves awaits talents!rm 4 w/ private patio. 2ndyour Fl laundry bdrms, 3 baths, walkout 35x252-1/2 new washer & dryer. 2 bdrms, bsmt w/office. Being sold “As Is� ba, 17x13 master bdrm w/big walk-in $319,900 closet. Near Moraine Valley Hurry! $178,900
Kathleen White, CRS Broker (708) 334-2089
448-4000
Save this ad for a FREE Market Analysis!
A Palos resident since 1963
708.448.6100
BHHSBlount.com Serving the Palos area for over 50 years
Your Palos Realtor
708-369-9327
“Follows Me Everywhere!� For Sale
For Sale
For Sale
For Sale
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT - CHANCERY DIVISION BANK OF AMERICA, N.A. Plaintiff, -v.UNKNOWN SUCCESSOR TRUSTEE OF THE MARGARET R. REGAN TRUST AGREEMENT DATED JUNE 24TH, 1998, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA - DEPARTMENT OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT, MARGARET R. REGAN TRUST AGREEMENT DATED JUNE 24TH, 1998, UNKNOWN OWNERS AND NONRECORD CLAIMANTS, DOLORES E. KAMPWIRTH A/K/A LORRIE KAMPWIRTH, AS SUCCESSOR CO-TRUSTEE OF THE MARGARET R. REGAN TRUST AGREEMENT DATED JUNE 24TH, 1998, BRIAN J. REGAN, AS SUCCESSOR CO-TRUSTEE OF THE MARGARET R. REGAN TRUST AGREEMENT DATED JUNE 24TH, 1998, ANNE M. LARDENOIT, AS SUCCESSOR CO-TRUSTEE OF THE MARGARET R. REGAN TRUST AGREEMENT DATED JUNE 24TH, 1998, SARAH C. SCHIFFLER, AS SUCCESSOR CO-TRUSTEE OF THE MARGARET R. REGAN TRUST AGREEMENT DATED JUNE 24TH, 1998, MARGARET R. HENNESSY A/K/A MARGIE HENNESSY, AS SUCCESSOR CO-TRUSTEE OF THE MARGARET R. REGAN TRUST AGREEMENT DATED JUNE 24TH, 1998 Defendants 16 CH 002016 14509 WILLOW STREET ORLAND PARK, IL 60462 NOTICE OF SALE PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above cause on June 9, 2017, an agent for The Judicial Sales Corporation, will at 10:30 AM on September 11, 2017, at The Judicial Sales Corporation, One South Wacker Drive, CHICAGO, IL, 60606, sell at public auction to the highest bidder, as set forth below, the following described real estate: Commonly known as 14509 WILLOW STREET, ORLAND PARK, IL 60462 Property Index No. 27-10-102-034-0000. The real estate is improved with a residence. Sale terms: 25% down of the highest bid by certified funds at the close of the sale payable to The Judicial Sales Corporation. No third party checks will be accepted. The balance in certified funds/or wire transfer, is due within twenty-four (24) hours. 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. Where a sale of real estate is made to satisfy a lien prior to that of the United States, the United States shall have one year from the date of sale within which to redeem, except that with respect to a lien arising under the internal revenue laws the period shall be 120 days or the period allowable for redemption under State law, whichever is longer, and in any case in which, under the provisions of section 505 of the Housing Act of 1950, as amended (12 U.S.C. 1701k), and subsection (d) of section 3720 of title 38 of the United States Code, the right to redeem does not arise, there shall be no right of redemption. The property will NOT be open for inspection and plaintiff makes no representation as to the condition of the property. Prospective bidders are admonished to check the court file to verify all information. If this property is a condominium unit, the purchaser of the unit at the foreclosure sale, other than a mortgagee, shall pay the assessments and the legal fees required by The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/9(g)(1) and (g)(4). If this property is a condominium unit which is part of a common interest community, the purchaser of the unit at the foreclosure sale other than a mortgagee shall pay the assessments required by The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/18.5(g-1). IF YOU ARE THE MORTGAGOR (HOMEOWNER), YOU HAVE THE RIGHT TO REMAIN IN POSSESSION FOR 30 DAYS AFTER ENTRY OF AN ORDER OF POSSESSION, IN ACCORDANCE WITH SECTION 15-1701(C) OF THE ILLINOIS MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE LAW. You will need a photo identification issued by a government agency (driver’s license, passport, etc.) in order to gain entry into our building and the foreclosure sale room in Cook County and the same identification for sales held at other county venues where The Judicial Sales Corporation conducts foreclosure sales. For information, examine the court file or contact Plaintiff’s attorney: CODILIS & ASSOCIATES, P.C., 15W030 NORTH FRONTAGE ROAD, SUITE 100, BURR RIDGE, IL 60527, (630) 794-9876 Please refer to file number 14-15-19672. 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. I726565
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT - CHANCERY DIVISION BANK OF AMERICA, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION Plaintiff, -v.TEDDIE T. PARKS AKA TEDDIE PARKS, VICTORIA M. PARKS, PALOS POINT TOWNHOMES OWNERS’ ASSOCIATION Defendants 16 CH 04179 7914 W. 105TH STREET 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 June 5, 2017, an agent for The Judicial Sales Corporation, will at 10:30 AM on September 6, 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 7914 W. 105TH STREET, PALOS HILLS, IL 60465 Property Index No. 23-13-102-098-0000. The real estate is improved with a single family residence. The judgment amount was $384,917.97. 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, contact Plaintiff’s attorney: J. Gregory Scott, HEAVNER, BEYERS & MIHLAR, LLC, 111 East Main Street, DECATUR, IL 62523, (217) 422-1717 Please refer to file number 2120-12131. If the sale is not confirmed for any reason, the Purchaser at the sale shall be entitled only to a return of the purchase price paid. The Purchaser shall have no further recourse against the Mortgagor, the Mortgagee or the Mortgagee’s attorney. 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. I723877
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT - CHANCERY DIVISION HSBC BANK USA, N.A. Plaintiff, -v.ROMKLAO SUNGKAMEE Defendants 2010 CH 50947 8801 WEST 103RD STREET 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 May 9, 2017, an agent for The Judicial Sales Corporation, will at 10:30 AM on August 24, 2017, at The Judicial Sales Corporation, One South Wacker Drive, CHICAGO, IL, 60606, sell at public auction to the highest bidder, as set forth below, the following described real estate: Commonly known as 8801 WEST 103RD STREET, PALOS HILLS, IL 60465 Property Index No. 23-15-202-005-0000. The real estate is improved with a single level red brick; single family home with attached garage. Sale terms: 25% down of the highest bid by certified funds at the close of the sale payable to The Judicial Sales Corporation. No third party checks will be accepted. The balance in certified funds/or wire transfer, is due within twenty-four (24) hours. 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 5pm. McCalla Raymer Leibert Pierce, LLC, Plaintiff’s Attorneys, One North Dearborn Street, Suite 1200, Chicago, IL 60602. Tel No. (312) 416-5500. Please refer to file number 1812. THE JUDICIAL SALES CORPORATION One South Wacker Drive, 24th Floor, Chicago, IL 60606-4650 (312) 236-SALE You can also visit The Judicial Sales Corporation at www.tjsc.com for a 7 day status report of pending sales. McCalla Raymer Leibert Pierce, LLC One North Dearborn Street, Suite 1200 Chicago, IL 60602 (312) 416-5500 E-Mail: pleadings@mccalla.com Attorney File No. 1812 Attorney Code. 61256 Case Number: 2010 CH 50947 TJSC#: 37-6383 I725941
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT - CHANCERY DIVISION SPECIALIZED LOAN SERVICING LLC Plaintiff, -v.JOSEPH L. PLANTE, MARYROSE PLANTE A/K/A MARYROSE CROCKER, WOODS EDGE III CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION Defendants 16 CH 016115 11130 EAST ROAD, UNIT F 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 May 24, 2017, an agent for The Judicial Sales Corporation, will at 10:30 AM on August 28, 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 11130 EAST ROAD, UNIT F, PALOS HILLS, IL 60465 Property Index No. 23-22-200-066-1078. The real estate is improved with a condo/townhouse. 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, examine the court file or contact Plaintiff’s attorney: CODILIS & ASSOCIATES, P.C., 15W030 NORTH FRONTAGE ROAD, SUITE 100, BURR RIDGE, IL 60527, (630) 794-9876 Please refer to file number 14-16-10861. 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. I723898
IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT - CHANCERY DIVISION THE BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON FKA THE BANK OF NEW YORK, AS TRUSTEE FOR THE CERTIFICATEHOLDERS OF THE CWABS, INC., ASSET-BACKED CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2007-8 Plaintiff, -v.JOHN KAIM A/K/A JOHN A. KAIM, FIRSTSECURE BANK AND TRUST CO., TRUST #1-138 DTD 3/26/96, UNKNOWN OWNERS AND NON-RECORD CLAIMANTS, UNKNOWN BENEFICIARIES OF FIRSTSECURE BANK AND TRUST CO., TRUST #1-138 DTD 3/26/96 Defendants 14 CH 13588 10749 SOUTH CHRISTA COURT 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 January 10, 2017, an agent for The Judicial Sales Corporation, will at 10:30 AM on September 5, 2017, at The Judicial Sales Corporation, One South Wacker Drive, CHICAGO, IL, 60606, sell at public auction to the highest bidder, as set forth below, the following described real estate: Commonly known as 10749 SOUTH CHRISTA COURT, PALOS HILLS, IL 60465 Property Index No. 23-14-400-076-0000. The real estate is improved with a white, brick, single family, two car attached garage. Sale terms: 25% down of the highest bid by certified funds at the close of the sale payable to The Judicial Sales Corporation. No third party checks will be accepted. The balance 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 5pm. McCalla Raymer Leibert Pierce, LLC, Plaintiff’s Attorneys, One North Dearborn Street, Suite 1200, Chicago, IL 60602. Tel No. (312) 416-5500. Please refer to file number 8564. 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. I726423
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 tollfree telephone number for the hearing impaired is: 1 (800) 927-9275.
34
For Sale
PUBLISHER’S NOTICE
5
Thursday, August 3, 2017 Section 2
HAVE A HOUSE FOR SALE? Advertise in Real Estate!
ÂŽ
“10 in the Park� NEW as of 7/7/11 For Sale
5 ACRES RT. 45 IN PEOTONE 600 ft. frontage x 400 ft. deep 40 ft. x 60 ft. pole barn CALL 815-450-0004
For Sale IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT - CHANCERY DIVISION NATIONSTAR MORTGAGE LLC D/B/A CHAMPION MORTGAGE COMPANY Plaintiff, -v.THOMAS BANIS, AS INDEPENDENT REPRESENTATIVE FOR THE ESTATE OF JEAN E. BANIS, DECEASED, THOMAS BANIS, AS TRUSTEE OF THE JEAN BANIS TRUST DATED JANUARY 30, 2001, RIDGE COVE CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION, SECRETARY OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT Defendants 16 CH 10407 10524 RIDGE COVE DR., APT 28B Chicago Ridge, IL 60415 NOTICE OF SALE PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above cause on May 22, 2017, an agent for The Judicial Sales Corporation, will at 10:30 AM on August 30, 2017, at The Judicial Sales Corporation, One South Wacker Drive, CHICAGO, IL, 60606, sell at public auction to the highest bidder, as set forth below, the following described real estate: Commonly known as 10524 RIDGE COVE DR., APT 28B, Chicago Ridge, IL 60415 Property Index No. 24-18-101-108-1052. The real estate is improved with a condominium. The judgment amount was $141,962.53. 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, contact Plaintiff s attorney: MARINOSCI LAW GROUP, P.C., 134 N LaSalle St., STE 1900, Chicago, IL 60602, (312) 940-8580 Please refer to file number 16-07031. THE JUDICIAL SALES CORPORATION One South Wacker Drive, 24th Floor, Chicago, IL 60606-4650 (312) 236-SALE You can also visit The Judicial Sales Corporation at www.tjsc.com for a 7 day status report of pending sales. MARINOSCI LAW GROUP, P.C. 134 N LaSalle St., STE 1900 Chicago, IL 60602 (312) 940-8580 E-Mail: mlgil@mlg-defaultlaw.com Attorney File No. 16-07031 Attorney Code. 59049 Case Number: 16 CH 10407 TJSC#: 37-6102 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.
6
Section 2 Thursday, August 3, 2017
448-6161
The Regional News - The Reporter
448-4000
Help Wanted
Garage Sale
Garage Sale
Asphalt Paving
Copar Corporation Burbank company looking for an experienced stockroom clerk and an experienced shipper/receiver. Both positions full time. Send resumes to: jfhughes@ copar.com
Friday and Saturday Aug. 4 and 5 9 AM to 4 PM Adult and kid’s clothing, Household, sports equipment Something For Everyone! 11616 S. 83rd Ave. Palos Park
Friday and Saturday Aug. 4 and 5 8 AM to 2 PM Hunting, home décor, jewelry Tools, Harley stuff and Much More! 8817 S. 84th Ct. Hickory Hills
C&C
Moving Sale
Wanted
Friday and Saturday August 4 and 5 9 AM to Noon Furniture, art, knick knacks And much more! Everything Must Go! 12756 Cedar Ln. Palos Heights
Motorized wheel chair or scooter Call 708-361-0535
For Sale 7000 BTU GoldStar window air conditioner. $100 or best offer. Call 708-422-3093
Wanted
LAWN MOWER & RIDING LAWN MOWERS,
448-6161
NEED LAWN SERVICES? Depend on an accredited company with the qualifications, resources, and professional management that has been getting the job done right for nearly 30 years
Family Owned & Operated Business Since 1982
Complete Residential & Commercial Service
Lawn Maintenance TNT LAWN MAINTENANCE
WEEKLY CUTTINGS - EDGING FREE ESTIMATES SENIOR DISCOUNTS 773-744-0280
Commercial & Residential Maintenance Experts
Your Complete Paving Contractor
Prompt and Reliable Customer Service
425-0410
MEMBER BETTER BUSINESS BUREAU
ADVERTISE IN THE CLASSIFIEDS!
448-4000
Landscaping
Asphalt Paving Inc.
(708)
No Hidden Costs or Fees
Certified • Fully Insured Licensed • Bonded
Lawn Mower Repair
Lawn Mowers & Riding Mowers Repair/Tune-Up
Cleaning Services www.threebrotherslandscaping.net
Call 448-4000 448-6161
Will fix at your house
(708)-687-8091
Reasonable Rates
Landscaping
Call: (815) 450-0004
small engines, bicycles.
Reasonably priced or free. Call (815) 450-0004
You could be sitting on a small fortune... Cash in on those treasures d Be just sitting around the house — with a classified ad!n The Regional News THE REGIONAL NEWS ThethisReporter Serving area since 1941 Harlemfor Ave.$25 Still12243 20 South Words Palos Heights, Illinois 60463-0932
Call 448-4000 Still or 20 448-6161 Words for $25 Call (708) 448-4000 Open Monday-Friday Open Mon.-Fri. 9-5 — Sat. 9-Noon 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
Plumbing & Sewer
Clean-out Services
GEORGE’S GEORGE’S
Stan’s Hauling
PLUMBING & SEWER
Removal of all unwanted items. From homes, offices, storage areas, garages, apartments, condos, etc. 7 days 773-206-9309 www.stanscleanout.com
Flood Control Specialists All Types of Plumbing Repairs
Landscaping
Concrete Raising
A. Uribe Landscaping Custom Landscape Design
A-ALL AMERICAN CONCRETE RAISING
Free Estimates Licensed Bonded Insured
(708) 361-0166
Lawn Care
Construction
JPS LAWN CARE
(312) 437-3969
FREE ESTIMATES (most cases) Quality Work - Reasonable Prices 40 years experience -Lic. #SL574
708.952.1833 Roofing
SERVING THE COMMUNITY SINCE 1980
Call : 773-440-3587
LUSKEY CONSTRUCTION 27 Years Experience Licensed and Bonded
Hot water tanks • Bathroom installations Toilets, Tubs, Sinks & Faucets Sewers rodded • Sump pumps Sewers inspected by camera Foundation leaks repaired Battery back-up systems
Brick Paving Sidewalks Tree Removals Retaining Walls & All General Landcaping We Accept all Major Credit Cards
Concrete Sinking? We Raise & Level Stoops • Sidewalks • Driveways Patios • Garage Floors Steps & More! All Work Guaranteed FREE ESTIMATES Ask About Special Discounts!
Garages • Decks Additions • Oak Floors
• • • • • •
Weekly Cutting & Mulch Bush & Hedge Trimming Sod Garden Maintenance & Edging Complete Landscaping
708-990-5553
PLACE YOUR AD TODAY
Tree Service count! Reasonable Dis Town Lowest Prices in
BROTHERS TREE SERVICE
Plumbing & Sewer
Stump Removal - Tree Removal Licensed and Bond 773-239-3570 Senior Citizen Discount 708-913-8968 Tree Service GERMAN’S
PROFESSIONAL TREE SERVICES
TREE TRIMMING • TREE REMOVAL STUMP REMOVAL • FIREWOOD FOR SALE SENIOR DISCOUNTS LICENSED-BONDED-INSURED FREE ESTIMATES 708-834-0060 • 708-714-0232
Remodeling
FATHER & DAUGHTERS REMODELING Not affiliated with Ron Kafka & Father & Sons
SUMMER Special 1/3 OFF
TRASHING ONE EGG WASTES 55 GALLONS OF WATER
• Bathrooms • Kitchens • Rec Rooms • Attics • Basements • General Repairs • Painting
Free Estimates Guaranteed Work Full Insured
• Room Additions • Second Floors • Dormers • Garages • Sheds • Garage Repairs • Decks
• Porches • Roofs • Siding • Soffit Fascia • Gutters • Tuckpointing • Fences
708-795-6940
• Windows • Doors • Flooring • Electrical • Plumbing • HVAC • Carpeting
Senior Discount Veteran Discount Licensed & Bonded
Advertise your business in the Service Directory! Call 448-4000 or 448-6161
Your Guide to Arts and Events in the Southwest Suburbs and Beyond
OUT & ABOUT
The Regional News • The Reporter
Thursday, August 3, 2017
VARIETY
‘Doctor Who’ showrunner defends casting decision
Southwest • Section 2, Page 7
WOLFGANG PUCK’S KITCHEN
By Daniel Holloway Outgoing “Doctor Who” showrunner Steven Moffat blames the media for what he says is a false narrative about backlash against the casting of a woman in the show’s title role. “There has been so many press articles about the backlash among the ‘Doctor Who’ fandom against the casting of a female Doctor,” Moffat said Sunday at Comic-Con. “There has been no backlash at all. The story of the moment is that the notionally conservative ‘Doctor Who’ fandom has utterly embraced that change completely — 80 percent approval on social media, not that I check these things obsessively. And yet so many people wanted to pretend there’s a problem. There isn’t.” Jodie Whittaker will take over the role of the Doctor from Peter Capaldi beginning next season. Whitaker will be the 13th actor to portray the character, and the first woman. “Doctor Who” fans, Moffat said, “are more excited by the fact that there’s going to be a brilliant actress playing the part than the fact that she’s a woman. It’s been incredibly progressive and enlightened and that’s what really happened. I wish every single journalist who is writing the alternative would shut the hell up.” Whittaker’s casting was the target of misogynist vitriol on social media, but has been defended by most connected to the show — including Moffat, who is handing over showrunner and executive producer duties to Chris Chibnall. Capaldi, who will make his
In the raw: Try a dish that highlights fresh fish at its finest By Wolfgang Puck BBC
Some fans of the popular British sci-series “Doctor Who” didn’t take kindly to the selection of Jodie Whittaker as the next Doctor.
last appearance as the character in the show’s upcoming Christmas special, also praised Whittaker’s casting. “I just wanted to say that I think Jodie’s going to be amazing,” Capaldi said. “I spoke to her the other day and she’s so full of excitement and so full of passion about the show. She really, really loves the show, and she’s a brilliant actress. So it’s really thrilling to know that it’s in the
hands of someone who cares for it so deeply. And is going to do really, really exciting things with it. She’s a great choice, as far as I’m concerned.” BBC also used the Comic-Con panel to premiere this December’s “Doctor Who” Christmas special trailer. The sneak peek shows Capaldi stuck in time alongside a second Doctor played by David Bradley. The trailer can be viewed below.
VIDEOVIEW BY JAY BOBBIN NOTICE: Ratings for each film begin with a ‘star’ rating — one star meaning ‘poor,’ four meaning ‘excellent’ — followed by the Motion Picture Association of America rating, and then by a family-viewing guide, the key for which appears below.
STARTING THIS WEEK:
“BIG LITTLE LIES”: Surely one of television’s prestige projects of the year, this engrossing HBO version of the Liane Moriarty novel — adapted by David E. Kelley (“The Practice”) — examines the lives of, and connections between, several women and mothers living supposedly ideal lives in scenic Monterey, Calif. Played by Reese Witherspoon, Nicole Kidman and Shailene Woodley (“Divergent”), they also have deep secrets that risk exposure after a death at an elementary school. Witherspoon and Kidman also were executive producers of the project, reuniting Witherspoon and co-star Laura Dern with “Wild” director JeanMarc Vallee and boasting a solid cast that also includes Alexander Skarsgard (“True Blood”), Adam Scott (“Parks and Recreation”), Zoe Kravitz and James Tupper. **** (Not rated: AS, P, V) (Also on Blu-ray) “GOING IN STYLE”: The premise is the same, so the true pleasure is in the acting, with another trio of senior-citizen stars — Oscar winners Michael Caine, Morgan Freeman and Alan Arkin succeeding the earlier version’s George Burns, Art Carney and Lee Strasberg — in this comedy remake. They play former coworkers, each of whom has his own reason for wanting to turn to bank robbery as a twilight-years hobby. The clear focus is on them, but director Zach Braff (“Garden State”)( also enlists such other familiar faces as Ann-Margret, Matt Dillon, Christopher Lloyd and “Saturday Night Live’s” Kenan Thompson. DVD extra: audio commentary by Braff. *** (PG13: AS, P) (Also on Blu-ray and On Demand) “THE CIRCLE”: Emma Watson gets top billing in this maybe-a-little-too-late cautionary tale adapted from Dave Eggers’ novel about social media, but Tom Hanks and Patton Oswalt do much with their customary energy as
Dreamstime.com
Sushi-grade salmon is suitable for serving and eating raw.
the owners of such a company. Watson plays their newest hire, and her ambition to prove herself leads her to volunteer for a project that displays subjects’ lives on view 24/7. Expectedly, she soon starts questioning what she’s gotten herself into — and, on a bigger scale, what the firm’s true intentions are. John Boyega (“Star Wars: The Force Awakens”) costars as a colleague who gives our heroine some insight, and director and co-screenwriter James Ponsoldt’s (“The Spectaciular Now”) cast also includes two recently deceased talents, Bill Paxton and Glenne Headly. DVD extras: three “making-of” documentaries. *** (PG-13: AS, P) (Also on Blu-ray and On Demand) “THE LOVERS”: Can this marriage be saved? It’s a popular question, and it’s the be-all and end-all of writer-director Azazel Jacobs’ seriocomic tale that gives Debra Winger one of her most sizable screen roles in years. She and actor-playwright Tracy Letts (whose works include “August: Osage County” and “Superior Donuts”) play a couple whose relationship seems all but finished, especially since each is romantically involved with someone else. However, there’s still a spark between them, and it could grow into full-fledged love for them again. Aiden Gillen (“Game of Thrones”) also appears. DVD extras: two “making-of” documentaries; audio commentary by Jacobs. *** (R: AS, P) (Also on Blu-ray and On Demand) “REMEMBER ME”: Though he’s best-known for comedy, Monty Python veteran Michael Palin makes a sharp turn into drama in this three-episode suspense tale, being released on home video in the same week it ends its PBS debut (a couple of years after its initial run on England’s BBC). Palin plays a senior citizen who gets himself into an assisted-living program by faking a fall, but he ends up in a very real mystery when he witnesses a social worker’s death. Others seem relatively unconcerned, with the exception of a young health-care assistant (Jodie Comer). Mark Addy and Julia Sawalha also star. *** (Not rated: AS, P) “PURE COUNTRY: PURE HEART”: The third drama in the country-music-infused fran-
chise — and the second to be made directly for the home-video market — this tale offers authentic country talents in co-stars Willie Nelson and Laura Bell Bundy. However, the thrust of the story is on two teen sisters who suddenly learn things they didn’t know about their father, a Marine who was killed while serving in Iraq. They take a road trip to discover more about his own musical aspirations, eventually setting them on a course for their own lives. Kaitlyn Bausch and Cozi Zuehlsdorff play the siblings, and the cast also includes Amanda Detmer, the WWE’s Shawn Michaels and veteran actor Ronny Cox, who wrote and performs one of the songs on the soundtrack. DVD extras: “making-of” documentary; music video. *** (Not rated: AS) (Also on Blu-ray)
COMING SOON:
“SNATCHED” (Aug. 8): Goldie Hawn and Amy Schumer play a mother and daughter who end up being kidnapped while on a vacation together. (R: AS, N, P) “THE DINNER” (Aug. 8): A restaurant gathering among relatives proves unsettling in a drama that reteams “Primal Fear” stars Richard Gere and Laura Linney. (R: AS, P, V) “KING ARTHUR: LEGEND OF THE SWORD” (Aug. 8): Charlie Hunnam has the title role in director Guy Ritchie’s retelling of the monarch’s story. (PG-13: AS, P, V) “BILLIONS: SEASON TWO” (Aug. 15): Federal prosecutor Chuck and hedge-fund king Axe (Paul Giamatti, Damian Lewis) both face major personal and professional challenges. (Not rated: AS, P) “CHUCK” (Aug. 15): Liev Schreiber (“Ray Donovan”) plays Chuck Wepner, the real-life boxer whose underdog story inspired “Rocky.” (R: AS, P, V) “HOW TO BE A LATIN LOVER” (Aug. 15): Eugenio Derbez (“Instructions Not Included”) is backed by a notable cast, including Salma Hayek and Rob Lowe, in this comedy about a dethroned ladies’ man, (PG-13: AS, N, P) FAMILY-VIEWING GUIDE KEY: AS, adult situations; N, nudity; P, profanity; V, violence; GV, particularly graphic violence.
In my early years as a chef, one of the most basic, and best, lessons I learned was to taste ingredients raw. Experiencing even a little bit of food in its uncooked state is a perfect way to get a sense of its flavors and textures, so you’ll always keep in mind the inherent qualities you want to highlight in the finished dish. Sometimes, taking that initial raw taste might also inspire you not to cook a particular ingredient at all, or to cook it only briefly. That is certainly the case with many kinds of seafood, which over the past couple of decades many people have learned to enjoy raw or very lightly seared. Just a few decades ago, food lovers in western countries might still have been wary of eating raw seafood - apart, of course, from longtime traditional specialties like raw oysters and cold-smoked salmon or lox. But the rising popularity of sushi dramatically changed people’s attitudes and also made people more receptive to other styles of raw or barely cooked premium fresh seafood, such as the citrusmarinated ceviche served in Latin American countries or the crudo (literally, “raw”) of Italy. Such raw seafood specialties make wonderful summertime appetizers. Cool, light and refreshing, they’re perfect to serve as a first course or light lunchtime main dish. Take, for example, my recipe for seared salmon and sea bass crudo with avocado. Inspired by casual dishes I observed and prepared myself as a young chef working in the South of France and Monaco, this recipe relies upon the freshest, finest raw fish fillets you can find. Fortunately, many markets today sell such seafood labeled as “sushi
grade” to indicate that it’s of the highest standard suitable for serving and eating raw. Of course, you should also let your eyes and nose confirm that the fillets are in perfect condition, looking firm and bright in color with no aromas other than a fresh clean scent of the sea. My recipe gives you the option of preparing the fish either in its most pristine raw state or, if you or your guests might prefer just a hint of cooking, searing the fillets lightly first. Either way, the fish is then cut into thin slices that are briefly marinated with a simple dressing of olive oil and citrus juice or vinegar, the acidity of which firms it up a bit just as light cooking would. Draped over thin wedges of avocado and garnished with fresh herbs, the crudo makes a beautiful presentation as refreshing to look at as it is to eat. I hope you’ll try this recipe soon, and discover for yourself the pleasures of the freshest seafood in its most pristine state. SEARED SALMON AND SEA BASS CRUDO WITH AVOCADO Serves 6 • 9 ounces (280 g) absolutely fresh sushigrade salmon fillet, skin removed • 9 ounces (280 g) absolutely fresh sushigrade sea bass fillet, skin removed • 4 tablespoons extravirgin olive oil, plus extra if searing the fish • 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice, lemon juice or good-quality Champagne vinegar • Fine sea salt • Freshly ground black
pepper • 3 ripe but slightly firm Hass-style avocados • 1 tablespoon minced fresh chives or tarragon • 3 lemons, thinly sliced, seeds removed If you plan to sear the fish, first heat a nonstick skillet large enough to hold both pieces of fish over high heat. Drizzle in a very thin coating of olive oil and, when the oil is hot enough to flow freely in the pan and just beginning to give off the slightly wisps of smoke, add the 2 fish fillets and cook them on both large sides for about 1 minute per side, just until seared brown, turn them carefully with tongs. Transfer the fish fillets, whether seared or raw, to a clean cutting board. With a very sharp chef’s knife, cut each fillet diagonally at a 45-degree angle into 6 paperthin slices, as you would slice smoked salmon. Arrange the fish slices without overlapping on a large platter. In a bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, salt and pepper. Drizzle this dressing over the fish. Loosely cover the platter and refrigerate for 30 minutes. Halve and pit the avocados. With a large metal spoon, keeping its edge against the inside of an avocado half’s skin, carefully scoop out the flesh in a single piece from each avocado half. Place the avocado halves cut side down on a clean cutting board. Use a sharp knife to cut each half lengthwise into 8 thin, crescentshaped wedges. Arrange 4 avocado slices on each of 4 chilled serving plates. Drape a slice each of salmon and sea bass on top of the avocado on each plate. Sprinkle with chives or tarragon, garnish with lemon slices, and serve immediately.
OMARR’S WEEKLY ASTROLOGICAL FORECAST By Jeraldine Saunders ARIES (March 21-April 19): Sometimes you want what you want when you want it. You may insist on having your own way despite the appearance of being illogical. Don’t buck the system or swim against the currents and the tides in the week ahead. TAURUS (April 20-May 20): Your focus in the week to come may be on getting things done by dealing with groups of people. You may find it easy to be inspired by your partner’s dynamic dreams just don’t forget to pay attention to the details. GEMINI (May 21-June 20): You don’t need to promise someone the moon and the stars. In the week to come it isn’t necessary to bend over backwards to please a special someone. Be content to be admired and adored for just being yourself. CANCER (June 21-July 22): Open the windows for a breath of fresh air. This is a good week to escape from people or situations that have stifled your happiness. You could receive a great deal of attention from others due to
a new toy or interest. LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): You are quick to grasp concepts before you float on to a new one. By embracing inspiring ideas you can plow your way through things that normally make you impatient. Keep edginess under control in the week ahead. VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Facing reality still leaves a lot to the imagination. Your down to earth nature may be uplifted by new friends and fantasies as this week passes by. New social contacts encourage you to enjoy a more serene and sociable mood. LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Play with the cards in your hand. You may be challenged in the week ahead when you are dealt some wild cards. Find inspiration by appreciating the people or things within walking distance or in the local community. SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Sheep enjoy the presence of a sheepherder. You might be intrigued by an offer to join a group or organization in the week ahead. New friends may inspire you to try something that may become a fascinating and passion-
ate pastime. SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22Dec. 21): Delay your pleasures and pleasures may be heightened. The flames of love may act as a pilot light until you meet a deadline or complete a project. Remain focused on honoring your commitments in the week ahead. CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): It takes two to tango. Working with a friend or in a group setting can help you shine even if you don’t have a dance floor handy. Ask for assistance with a project or popularize your cause as the week unfolds. AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Count your change twice, and then count it again. In the week ahead your assets may shrink through no fault of your own, but you are especially prone to carelessness about your possessions and mat lose some pennies. PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): Distance provides a more objective view. Stand back from a relationship so that emotional issues do not undermine basic trust and attunement. Avoid letting suspicions or doubts cloud your judgment this week.
Your Guide to Arts and Events in the Southwest Suburbs and Beyond
OUT & ABOUT
The Regional News • The Reporter
Thursday, August 3, 2017
LIZ SMITH
Southwest • Section 2, Page 8
RICK STEVES’ EUROPE
Alpine escapes accessible to everyone By Rick Steves
Documentary filmmaker Ken Burns.
Chuck Myers/Sipa USA/TNS
Jane Austen, Ken Burns, Kevin Spacey By Liz Smith “WHERE SHALL I begin? Which of all my important nothings shall I tell you first?” wrote Jane Austen to her sister Cassandra. I came across this quote in Amy Bloom’s New York Times book review of “Jane Austen at Home” by Lucy Worsley. This was the July 16 edition of the Times book review section which — on the 200th anniversary of her death — was heavily devoted to Ms. Austen, her works and enduring legend. I read every Austen-related review and puzzle. Now I feel I must reacquaint myself with — at the very least — “Pride and Prejudice.” (She only wrote six novels in her short life, so it’s not like I have to dig into the complete works of, you know — James Patterson!) Jane’s remark to her sister stuck with me, however — “important nothings.” Perfect for an “entertainment” column, particularly these days, when we generally don’t feel terribly entertained or entertaining. No matter how we try to avoid cable news, the internet and those subjects some of our readers forbid us to mention. Just the other day, a lady who, a while back, had sent us a very complimentary email, fired off another one, slugged “I retract!” She decried any mention we make of politics. She was done with us. We had a civilized back and forth and expressed sorrow at losing her as a reader. Que sera... We do our best here to keep it light, but honestly, sometimes — to paraphrase Robert Mitchum in “Secret Ceremony” — one has to choose between entertainment and being a human being. THIS ‘N THAT: Save the date. On Sunday, Sept. 17, PBS will debut the new Ken Burns 10-part documentary “The Vietnam War.” I was reminded of this by David Kamp’s excellent Vanity Fair article on the series, as well as re-watching, over the weekend, Burns’ documentary about the preservation and founding of our national parks. I think Burns and his team are geniuses and national treasures. Ken Burns could make a film about the history of the hotdog and leave me in a puddle of tears at the end. ...I AM late coming to the subject of Andrew Garfield’s remark about preparing for his role onstage in “Angels in America” in London. He said “I am a gay man right now, just without the physical act — that’s all.” Everybody got their Duluth Trading undies in a twist. I thought it was very Method-actory. It made sense. What I questioned was his claim that he has watched all nine seasons of “RuPaul’s Drag Race.” Is that humanly possible? Then I thought of all the people who watch the Kardashians, the Housewives, Kendra, etc. It’s just lurid, mindless diversion, nothing to do with relating to humanity. Just as RuPaul’s show has nothing to do with being gay — at least not in the context of preparing for something as real, important and devastating as “Angels in America.” ...IF at my advanced age, I decide I ever want to put dimples into these cheeks of mine, I now know it is not a hopeless pursuit. A nice girl named Tori Sichta got in touch to let me know that among millennials, “Dimpleplasty” is the latest trend. Blame it on Harry Styles, Gabrielle Union
and Miranda Kerr. It takes only 30 minutes. Allure magazine has touted the procedure, which one Dr. Wright Jones has supposedly perfected. Instant dimples. Dear Jane Austen, if that’s not an “important nothing” what is?! I HEARD from my old friend Lauren Lawrence, the former dreams columnist of the New York Daily News. I lot of dreams (and nightmares!) have passed under the analytical bridge since she mused there. In 2011, her TV show “Celebrity Nightmares Decoded” premiered on HBO. She’s written a poetry book since then — “Side Effects,” out right now — and had a reading at the Shakespeare & Co. bookstore and cafe in Manhattan. (The book itself is a Shakespeare & Co. imprint.) She says: “My friend Gore Vidal always loved poetry and it was he who encouraged me. As you probably know, poetry is an endangered species. So it’s great that I won a terrific audience with my reading. My book is on Amazon. And good luck to all of us who are trying to save poetry!” SPEAKING of Gore Vidal, what fun news that Kevin Spacey will portray Gore in a coming film for Netflix. It will shoot mostly on Italy’s Amalfi Coast, where Gore famously kept a cliffside mansion in Ravello. There’s hardly a day that goes by that I don’t miss Vidal for many things, but his observations on the current political scene would have been priceless. That erudite, scathing intelligence would be so welcome. Anybody’s erudite scathing intelligence is welcome, at this point. Please, someone step up. AND SPEAKING of Netflix, I am usually quite entertained by the variety of programming available there, even when I have to admit I’m giving in a bit, to — for example — all those oh-so-similar British/Australian/ Scandinavian detective series. (You can be sure of one thing, the lead detective, male or female, is forever teetering on the edge of insanity, but almost always keeps his or her job.) However for some reason — all right I read a lot of positive reviews — I decided to watch “13 Reasons Why.” I knew the limited series dealt with adolescent suicide and bullying, and was aimed at teens, more or less. But, why not? I found out why not. Perhaps it is indeed simply not something an adult can understand, but I found myself astounded and angered by the apparent trivialization/glamorization of the subject, as well as the bad writing and the performances that could not rise above that bad writing. Not to mention a main character with whom one is supposed to sympathize, but whose motivations and effect on her foes — or those she perceives as foes — is messy, vindictive and unfocused. Even after some horrible things actually do happen to her, we struggle to make sense of her revenge. I think young people — especially those suffering from the emotional savagery of bullying — who tuned in to “13 Reasons Why” were done a disservice. E-mail Liz Smith at MES3838@ aol.com.
The Alps, Europe’s highest mountain range, arc from Vienna, Austria to Marseilles, France. They include stretches in eight countries, each with a unique taste of alpine culture. Of the 750 miles of peaks, the Swiss Alps are a traveler’s alpine dream come true. With majestic snow-capped summits, waterfalllaced cliffs, and picturesque lakes, they have hiker-friendly amenities — well-marked trails, restful mountain huts, and a system of lifts and trains that drop you off at the top. The Swiss, who are both great engineers and nature lovers, know how to make alpine thrills accessible to almost everyone. My favorite region in the Swiss Alps is the Berner Oberland, south of Bern and crowned by a trio of formidable peaks: the Eiger, Moench, and Jungfrau. A good, easy hike is along the Maennlichen and Kleine Scheidegg ridges, which separate the Grindelwald and Lauterbrunnen valleys. I recommend taking the mountain train from Lauterbrunnen up to the town of Wengen, then a gondola to Maennlichen. From there, the trail winds gently downhill past mountain views, contented cows, a perfect picnic spot, and a fine restaurant. You’ll get a loftier view of those mountains from the 10,000-foot Schilthorn summit. The Schilthornbahn cable car takes riders up effortlessly in four stages. At about $100 round-trip, it’s pricey, but when you’re surrounded by cut-glass peaks and breathing fresh mountain air, it’s one of Europe’s great deals. Whether filled with skiers in winter or hikers in summer, there’s a happy energy as you ascend in that glass-and-steel bubble of mountain joy. The Swiss love to cap their peaks with restaurants, and one of the most popular is the Schilthorn’s revolving Piz Gloria. Before opening to the public in 1969, it was the setting of key scenes in the James Bond movie, “On Her Majesty’s Secret Service.” Today, there’s a fun 007 exhibit and Bond-themed toilets. While gravelly trails lead down from the Schilthorn, casual hikers prefer taking the cable car down to Birg station. The station, while a
Dominic Arizona Bonuccelli, Rick Steves’ Europe
The super-scenic walk from Maennlichen to Kleine Scheidegg in Switzerland is both dramatic and relatively easy — and comes with great views and fine company.
fine springboard for hikes, is also entertaining, offering the Skyline Walk, a viewing platform with a transparent floor that juts out over the cliff edge, and the Thrill Walk, a fun, 200-yard course with a steel-and-glass-bottom floor, rope bridge, and tunnel. From Birg, you can walk down to the rustic hamlet of Gimmelwald (a great place to enjoy a post-hike beer — or better, spend the night). The Swiss Alps, while great, are in perhaps the most expensive country in Europe. The French Alps above the resort town of Chamonix — near the junction of France, Switzerland, and Italy — are nearly as exhilarating and a lot more affordable. In Chamonix, if the weather’s right, there’s nothing better than riding the cable car to the Aiguille du Midi, the 12,600-foot rock “needle of midday” high above town and across from Mont Blanc. Up here, the air is thin, people are giddy, and even when the sun’s out it’s still bitter cold in July. From here, a cute red gondola — Europe’s highest lift — glides slowly along a three-mile cable, dangling silently over the Mer de Glace (Sea of
Ice) to Helbronner Point, at the border of Italy. Above Chamonix Valley, the Grand Balcon Sud hike is lovely. Being a hiking lightweight, I prefer a trail where I can ride a lift to one end, enjoy highmountain kicks all along (with minimal altitude gain), and then ride the lift down from the other end. This three-hour walk comes with staggering views of Mont Blanc, glaciers, and wildflowers — and a fraction of the Aiguille du Midi crowds. Italy’s Dolomites offer an entirely different flavor of the Alps. Dolomite — a sedimentary rock similar to limestone — gives these mountains their distinctive shape and color. This region — part of Italy only since World War I — is also unique for its Austrian roots, which still survive here, from the food to the bilingual German/Italian-speaking locals. The city of Bolzano — blending Austrian tidiness with an Italian love for life — is the Dolomites’ gateway. But I prefer settling in higher up, in Castelrotto — right in the midst of mountain splendor, yet without that empty ski-resortin-the-summer feeling.
Both towns provide easy access to the Alpe di Siusi, Europe’s largest alpine meadow. Undulating rather than flat, broken by rushing streams, and dappled with shapely evergreens, the Alpe di Siusi is a well-run national park. It boasts shuttle buses, well-kept huts, trails, and lifts, along with spectacular views of the surrounding Dolomite peaks and lots of cows — who produce two million gallons of milk annually. Being here on a sunny summer day comes with the ambience of a day at the beach. No matter which corner you’re exploring — Switzerland, France, Italy, or beyond — the Alps provide a symphony of experiences that can endlessly delight lovers of culture, history, and nature. They certainly have for me. Rick Steves (www.ricksteves. com) writes European travel guidebooks and hosts travel shows on public television and public radio. Email him at rick@ ricksteves.com and follow his blog on Facebook.