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THE Volume LVII, No. 44

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Serving Chicago Ridge, Evergreen Park, Hickory Hills, Oak Lawn, Palos Hills and Worth

2 SECTIONS 18 PAGES

Thursday, January 12, 2017

Lipinski talks Trump, challenges ahead Town hall meeting in Oak Lawn sparks spirited discussion

By Dermot Connolly Cong. Dan Lipinski (D-3rd) discussed his concerns with the incoming president and his administration, and he engaged in some spirited discussion with constituents at a crowded town hall meeting Saturday morning at Oak Lawn Community High School.

“There is both a lot of excitement and anxiety looking toward the inauguration of Donald Trump as our next president,” said Lipinski, who was sworn in last Tuesday to his seventh term in office.

“I’m hoping we do have a comprehensive infrastructure bill,” Lipinski

continued. “There seems to be some backpedaling on this (from Trump), but I’m going to keep the pressure on. It will help everyone greatly. The better we can move goods around, the better it is for everyone.

“We know our economy is not as good as it needs to be,” said Lipinski, who outlined two new bills he will be introducing to address the situation.

He said one bill would “close loopholes” in the existing Buy American rules for the federal government.

Another is aimed at helping military personnel get the training needed to qualify for good jobs when they leave

the service.

Asked about checks and balances in a government with a Republican president with majorities in the House and Senate, Lipinski said, “Congress needs to step up and make sure that there are those checks and balances.”

He added that he would consider Trump’s proposals on a case-by-case basis rather than opposing everything automatically.

“I get a lot of criticism for not always going along with the Democratic leadership, and I hope the Republicans See LIPINSKI, Page 5

Photo by Dermot Connolly

Cong. Dan Lipinski (D-3rd) responds to a question about his support for the First Amendment Defense Act during his town hall meeting on Saturday morning in Oak Lawn.

EVERGREEN PARK

World Series trophy helps lift spirits of young patients

Man shot to death in car outside store

By Kelly White As a Chicagoan, Isaac Jordan Madugu adores the Chicago Cubs and watches as many games as he can. Although he lives on the South Side, the 2-year-old has a love for the team that derived from his mother, Ninia Madugu.

Although Issac may appear like a typical sports-loving toddler, he is currently recovering from his third open-heart surgery, which took place on Sept. 19. He was among 20 patients at Advocate Children’s Hospital in Oak Lawn who was able to take a photo with the World Series trophy on Tuesday morning, alongside Cubs mascot Clark.

“It’s events like this that help us to feel normal,” Ninia Madugu said. “When you come to the hospital every day and you know exactly what you’re coming here for, some days are long and some days are OK. It’s nice to have a break in the routine, and this is something everyone can be happy about. I am so happy for Chicago. Now each one of our home teams have won a championship.”

Advocate Children’s Hospital has partnered with Chicago Cubs Charities to improve the lives of children and families across Chicago and beyond. The goal is to provide increased access to sports opportunities and target improvements in health, fitness and education for those at risk. They partner with the most effective programs and organizations to achieve positive impact and demonstrated results, according to Melissa Cavanaugh, Advocate Children’s Hospital’s Child Life Manager.

“We have done a lot of work with the

Alleged shooter is later killed in a shootout with police on Metra train

By Dermot Connolly A man was fatally shot in a car in Evergreen Park last Thursday night, and the man suspected of killing him died in a shootout with police on Friday on a Metra train in Deerfield.

The victim in the Evergreen Park incident, which occurred about 6:45 p.m. outside Walgreens, 8700 S. Kedzie Ave., was identified as David Murrell, 34, of Chicago’s Ashburn neighborhood. The man shot by police on the train has been identified as 32-year-old Jamal Parks, of Gurnee.

Police said Murrell, who was shot while seated in his vehicle, may have been targeted. The South Suburban Major Crimes Task Force is leading the investigation into both incidents, and many questions remain about how and why the two men came in contact with each other, and what led police to Parks.

Orland Park Police Chief Tim McCarthy, the chairman and spokesman of the South Suburban

Photo by Kelly White

Ninia Madugu and her son, Isaac Jordan Madugu, 2, pose for a photo with the Cubs’ World Series trophy Tuesday morning at Advocate Children’s Hospital in Oak Lawn.

Cubs, and events like this are wonderful for both patients and their families,” Cavanaugh said. “It is great for moral and a lot of fun for families. The team’s

players and mascots are celebrities to our children here.”

See TROPHY, Page 9

Major Crimes Task Force, has said details about the investigation and how police found Parks cannot be released while the investigations are underway.

The Evergreen Park Police Department issued a statement saying that officers, who responded to a report of shots fired last Thursday, found Murrell fatally shot in the driver’s seat of an SUV parked outside Walgreens. He was pronounced dead at the scene, with multiple gunshot wounds.

Witnesses stated that three male blacks were seen running from the scene, and surveillance cameras also showed three people involved. Police believe Parks was one of the men there.

About 45 minutes later, three men fitting that vague description robbed a Sports Cutz barbershop two miles west at 8834 S. Cicero Ave., in Oak Lawn. It was thought the two events may have been related, but that turned out not to be the case, according to police.

According to published reports, See SHOOTING, Page 5

SWSRA in Worth opens room ‘where fun happens’

By Sharon L. Filkins Imagine a room filled with soft, soothing music, a sweet aroma, a sandbox and squishy toys to help relieve your stress. Imagine a beanbag chair to snuggle in and just relax.

No pressure.

No demands.

Just you and the relaxing environment.

This room became a reality last Thursday with the opening of the Sensory Depot at the South West Special Recreation Association (SWSRA), located at the Helen Goy Center, 10707 S. Oak Park Ave., in Worth.

“This is really exciting,” said Worth Mayor Mary Werner. “I saw this under construction and I didn’t know what to

expect. It is truly impressive!”

The Sensory Depot is a multi-sensory room “where fun happens,” said Susan Vinyard, superintendent of recreation at SWSRA. “It is a specifically designed environment for people with special needs and various ability levels where they can experience a variety of senses which can also assist in developing specific skills,” she added.

The Sensory Depot contains equipment to activate every sense; smell, touch, sound, sight and taste.

“The sensory sessions are participant led to accommodate individual needs with SWSRA sensory staff supervision at all times,’’ said Vinyard.

Vinyard explained there are many benefits of the Sensory Room.

“It calms, de-stresses, reduces anxiety and pain and helps develop selfregulating skills,’’ she said. “It teaches cause-and-effect, color recognition, and eye-hand coordination. Using the equipment increases concentration, improves alertness and improves mobilization, creativity, social relations and communications.”

Currently, equipment in the room includes a five-foot long piano keyboard on the floor that participants can walk on to create musical sounds. By stepping on certain buttons, the sounds of various instruments can be heard.

A skill-building wall includes workable zippers, snaps, button-holes and shoe-laces for participants to work with to their hearts’ content.

There are also fidget toys including

musical balls, soft spaghetti-like threads that can be mashed, pulled, bunchedup, etc., and crunchy mats to step on.

“All participants leave their shoes at the door, so they can experience the touch and feel of all the equipment,” Vinyard said.

The Sensory Depot will be open on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays. Each sensory session is 30 minutes long. Occupancy of the room allows up to four children per session. For adults, it is no more than three per session. Tickets are $20 for five visits or $36 for 10 visits.

Without a ticket, the daily fee is $5 per visit. Further information on the hours of operation is available at (708) 3899423 or the website: www.swsra.com.

Photo by Jeff orva

See SENSORY, Page 9

Hannah Brancato, 9, of Worth has fun with the fiber optics wires during last Thursday’s grand opening of the SWRSA Sensory Depot.

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2 The Reporter

Thursday, January 12, 2017

Suspects sought after shots fired outside Oak Lawn restaurant Oak Lawn police responded to shots fired Monday night outside a local restaurant that occurred in the village.

Police arrived at about 9 p.m. at Hooter’s Restaurant, 9159 S. Cicero Ave., after being called about shots fired outside the building.

Police later determined that two groups of men had been involved in a verbal altercation inside the business. The two groups reportedly had words as they left the restaurant.

One group, police said, fired on the second group as they were exiting the business. The

second group returned fire and both groups continued shooting at each other as they fled the area in separate vehicles, according to reports.

No injuries were reported. Oak Lawn police said they are still investigating the incident.

POLICE REPORTS Chicago Ridge

Submitted photos

Oak Lawn police are looking for three offenders (pictured above and below) in the armed robbery of the Sports Cutz hair salon that occurred in the village on Jan. 5.

Retail theft Vernetta M. Williams, 43, of the 8200 block of 18th Avenue, Maywood, was charged with retail theft at the Charlotte Russe clothing store in Chicago Ridge Mall at 6:55 p.m. Jan. 4. Police said she took merchandise worth $214 from the store. She is due in court on Feb. 7.

Oak Lawn police seek offenders in armed robbery of hair salon Oak Lawn police are searching for three offenders in the armed robbery of a hair salon that happened in the village on Jan. 5.

The robbery took place at about 7:40 p.m. at Sports Cutz, 8834 S. Cicero Ave. According to investigators, three men entered the business and displayed weapons. They demanded cash and cellphones from people that were inside the salon, according to reports.

Police said that no one was injured in the incident and the offenders fled the area on foot.

The suspects are only described as black and between the ages of 20 to 25. Anyone with information about the offenders or the robbery can contact the Oak Lawn police, (708) 422-8292.

Domestic battery Zackery Roberson, 22, was charged with domestic battery following a domestic disturbance at his home in the 5700 block of West 108th Street at 1:10 a.m. last Friday. Police said he punched a woman in the mouth. He was arrested shortly afterward at 111th Street and Ridgeland Avenue. He was held for a bond hearing.

Suspended license • Crystal M. Lopez, 29, of the 5300 block of West 108th Place, Oak Lawn, was charged with driving on a suspended license following a traffic stop at 10:25 p.m. Sunday at 105th Street and Ridgemont Lane. Police said she was also cited for failure to signal when required. She is due in court on Feb. 14.

• Jason Singer, 32, of the 6200 block of West 94th Street, Oak Lawn, was charged with driving on a suspended license following a traffic stop at 10:35 p.m. Jan. 4 in the 6400 block of West 95th Street. Police said he was also cited for driving without insurance and suspended registration.

He is due in court on Feb. 14.

• Andrew J. Guerin, 20, of the 10800 block of South McVicker Avenue, Chicago Ridge, was charged with driving on a suspended license following a traffic stop at 1 p.m. Jan. 4 in the 10300 block of South Ridgeland Avenue. Police said he was also cited for speeding. He is due in court on Feb. 27.

FBI searches for suspect in TCF Bank robbery in Oak Lawn The FBI is investigating a robbery of a TCF Bank located in the Jewel grocery store at 8801 S. Ridgeland Avenue in Oak Lawn at 9:20 a.m. last Thursday.

The offender was described as black, 5 ‘7 or 5’8, and 160 to 165 pounds. He wore a light blue jacket over a black hooded sweatshirt with the hood pulled up and a winter mask covering his face.

FBI spokesman Garrett Croon said the man fled to a vehicle in what witnesses said was driven by a woman. It was last seen heading east on 87th Street.

Supplied photo

This FBI photo provided this image of the man believed to be responsible for robbing a TCF Bank last Thursday at the Jewel grocery store at 8801 S. Ridgeland Ave., Oak Lawn

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Oak Lawn DUI charge Sepas A. Siddiqui, 24, of Palos Hills, was charged with driving under the influence of alcohol following a traffic stop at 3:09 a.m.

Jan. 3, at 95th Street and 68th Court. Police said he registered a .132 blood-alcohol count on a breath test. He was also cited for improper lane usage, speeding, He is due in court on Feb. 17.

Illegal alcohol consumption

Tija T. Walters, 33, of Chicago, was charged with driving without a valid license following a traffic stop at 12:41 a.m. Dec. 28 in the 10900 block of South Cicero Avenue. Police said she was also cited for driving without insurance, tinted front windows, and no rear registration plate light.

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Jessica Mims, 23, of Chicago, was charged with felony criminal damage and battery following an incident at 10:05 p.m. Jan. 3 at Subway restaurant, 9838 S. Western Ave. Police said she used the bathroom and left the restaurant,

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but returned a few minutes later and accused a worker of stealing money she had left in the bathroom. She reportedly then sprayed the employee with pepper spray and hit him with her hand. Police said she also was carrying an illegal knife, and used it to break a window when she was forced out of the building. She was also cited for unlawful use of a weapon and illegal transportation of alcohol.

Marmita Dunnigan. 40, of Chicago, was charged with retail theft at 6:37 p.m. Jan. 4 at Walmart, 2500 W, 95th St. Police said he took bottles of tequila worth $52.28.

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A 59-year-old man was struck by a passing vehicle and killed attempting to walk across the street at 95th Street and Cook Avenue in Oak Lawn on Monday night.

The incident occurred at about 7:37 p.m., according to police. The man was struck as he attempted to cross 95th Street from the south side to

Rafael Villegas, 20, of Cicero, was charged with illegal consumption of alcohol after police were called to a domestic disturbance at a home on Meade Avenue at 12:50 a.m. Jan. 4. They said Villegas was stopped and questioned outside the residence.

He is due in court on Feb. 17.

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the north side. The vehicle was driven by a 27-year-old woman who was driving in the curb lane going westbound on 95th Street, according to police.

The identity of the victim was not available. The investigation is still ongoing pending the accident reconstruction investigation. No charges have been filed as of Tuesday.

Criminal trespassing Louis James Johnson, 27, of Chicago, was charged with criminal trespassing following a disturbance call at 10:05 p.m. Dec. 27 at JC Miami motel, 9041 S. Cicero Ave. Police said they found him screaming in the parking lot because the manager would not allow a third person to stay in a room. The manager said he would sign complaints if Johnson returned, and did so when police came back 15 minutes later and found Johnson in the parking lot.

He is due in court on Jan. 17.

Wallet is stolen Deborah L. Bidochka, 49, of Oak Lawn, and Shadi Hisham Keblawe, 41, of Miami Lakes, Fla., were charged with felony vehicular invasion and unlawful use of a credit card following an altercation with a cab driver at 3:52 a.m. Dec. 28 in the 9400 block of South Kenton Avenue.

The cab driver told police a woman later identified as Bidochka had opened the passenger side door of his parked cab, asked him if he was OK, and then stole his wallet off the front seat. She allegedly handed the wallet containing cash and credit cards to Keblawe but used one of the credit cards to buy a pack of cigarettes at a nearby gas station. Both were arrested at the Aloha Motel. They were held for a felony bond hearing.

Suspended license Jose A. Mejia, 27, of Chicago, was charged with driving on a suspended license following a traffic stop at 11:37 p.m. Dec. 28 in the 5500 block of West 87th Street. Police said he was also cited for aggravated speeding, because they said he was driving 75 mph in a 35 mph zone. He is due in court on Feb. 1.

Battery off nse Ricky A. Kehoe, 32, of Burbank, was charged with battery after police responded to a fight in progress report at 11:09 p.m. Dec. 27 in the 6600 block of West 95th Street. Police said a 48-year-old man told them that Kehoe had punched him in the face after they

got into an argument. Kehoe was arrested in a nearby apartment. He is due in court on Feb. 1.

Palos Hills Possession of contraband cigarettes Sami Abdallah, 57, of Palos Hills, was charged with felony unlawful possession of contraband cigarettes following a traffic stop at 9:48 p.m. Jan. 3. Police said he was also charged with illegal transportation of non-Illinois tax stamped cigarettes, and cited for various traffic offenses.

Telephone harassment A resident of the 9100 block of South Road reported being a victim of telephone harassment at 3:14 p.m. Jan. 3. She told police she has been receiving harassing and threatening text messages.

Juveniles caught fighting Police were called to the 8400 block of 103rd Terrace at 7:53 p.m. Jan. 4 to investigate a report of battery. Police said a group of juveniles were fighting and no injuries were reported.

Identity theft A resident of the 10500 block of South Aspen Drive reported being the victim of identity theft at 8:48 p.m. last Thursday. The victim said unknown subjects fraudulently opened several credit card accounts in the victim’s name and rented a U-Haul truck that had not been returned.

Police are investigating a case of identity theft reported by a resident of the 9900 block of 84th Terrace at 10:57 a.m. Sunday.

The victim said an unknown person fraudulently purchased a cellphone and put the usage on the victim’s account.

Vandalism reports A rear window of a vehicle parked in the 11100 block of Moraine Drive was found damaged by a cinderblock, police were told at 11:39 p.m. Friday.

Damage to a tire on a vehicle was discovered and reported to police at 7:33 a.m. Sunday, in the 10400 block of Aspen Drive.

Police are investigating a case of criminal damage to property that was reported at 7:16 p.m. Jan. 3 in the 8700 block of Taos Drive.

A resident whose mailbox was damaged reported seeing two people running from the scene.

Police reports are provided by law enforcement agencies.

Charges are not evidence of guilt. They are a record of police actions taken, and persons charged with a crime are presumed innocent until proved guility in a court of law.

SXU to offer 100 percent smoke-free campuses with help from $20,000 grant St. Xavier University was awarded a $20,000 grant that will help the university advocate for, adopt and implement a 100 percent smoke- and tobacco-free initiative on SXU’s Chicago and Orland Park campuses.

This is part of the American Cancer Society and the CVS Health Foundation’s Tobacco-Free Generation Campus Initiative (TFGCI).

SXU will offer six-week cessation classes through the Respiratory Health Association’s Courage to Quit program to assist SXU students, faculty, administrators and staff as well as the community on their journey to quit smoking.

The Respiratory Health Association’s Courage to Quit program includes trained facilitators from the SXU Health Center who will guide attendees through the program. This six-session weekly program was created to provide a supportive group environment for those who find it difficult to quit smoking.

For a $20 fee, participants can attend classes that begin on Thursday, Feb. 2 from 5 to 6:30 p.m. at the Chicago campus, 3700 W. 103rd St., in the Warde Academic Building, Room E204. Each participant that completes the program will receive their $20 fee back after the last session.

To register for this program, contact (773) 298-3712.

Thursday, January 12, 2017

The Reporter

3

Aide to Lipinski found dead at Oak Lawn home From staff reports Police say they have someone in custody after a woman who was an aide to Cong.

Dan Lipinski (D-3rd) was found dead in her Oak Lawn home on Monday night in an incident that authorities said might have been a domestic altercation.

Oak Lawn police discovered the body of Marianne L. Viverito, 55, on the 5100 block of West 105th Place. She is the daughter of Stickney Township supervisor and former state Sen. Louis Viverito.

“Marianne was a beloved and trusted member of my staff and has been a part

of my team during much of my tenure in Congress,” Lipinski said in a statement Tuesday night. “She has helped countless of my constituents solve challenges they’ve faced with the federal government with a smile, good nature and humor. As with me and my staff, I know that these constituents will miss her greatly.”

A call for a well-being check was received by the Oak Lawn police on Monday. Information was received from an out-of-state police agency that the woman at that location might have been the victim of a domestic altercation involving a family member.

Upon arriving at the location, officers said

they observed blood on the ground and in the residence. Officers entered the residence to check on the occupants, at which time Viverito’s body was located in the basement.

The Oak Lawn Police Department is working with the South Suburban Major Crimes Task Force on this case pending results from the Cook County medical examiner’s office.

Oak Lawn police said this appears to be an isolated incident and the public is not in any danger.

Marianne Viverito had previously worked for the Cook County Circuit Court. She also served as Worth Township trustee from 2012 to 2013.

Oak Lawn Board discusses recent crimes

By Dermot Connolly

In the wake of a string of incidents that have occurred in the village since last Thursday, members of the Oak Lawn Village Board spoke at length about public safety concerns at Tuesday’s board meeting.

Trustees and Mayor Sandra Bury praised police for their handling of the rapid succession of incidents, which began with the robbery of a TCF Bank in the Jewel grocery store at 8801 S. Ridgeland Avenue on Jan. 5.

On Monday at about 9 p.m., an argument between two groups of men escalated into a gunfight outside the Hooters restaurant, 9159 S. Cicero Ave., with the men firing at each other from cars as they drove away. No injuries were reported.

About an hour before that, there was a fatal traffic accident on 95th Street at Cook Avenue.

Also on Monday, police doing a well-being check found the body of Marion Viverito, 55, in her home in the 5100 block of West 105th Street. The daughter of Stickney Township Supervisor Lou Viverito and a staff member of Cong. Dan Lipinski (D-3rd) was a victim of domestic violence, police said.

Trustee Terry Vorderer (4th), whose district includes the Hooters location, said many of his constituents who live within blocks of the restaurant want to know why they weren’t notified by phone about the shooting incident via the Everbridge resident alert system operated by the police department.

“What we’re battling here to a certain degree is social media. People have scanners, and they know as quickly as we do about what is going on,” Vorderer said.

He noted that the information being shared on social media often isn’t completely correct.

Trustee Tim Desmond (1st), who lives near the Jewel where the TCF bank robbery occurred, also wondered why he was not notified of that via Everbridge.

“I heard about it on Facebook. But I get them about traffic delays,” he said. “My wife was about to go to Jewel and I told her to stay home.”

Police Chief Michael Murray said the department does have guidelines for watch commanders to follow regarding issuing Everbridge notices.

“But we have to give them some discretion because circumstances are always changing,” he said.

Murray said no notice was sent about the bank robbery because the FBI handles bank robberies and the offender quickly fled the area so residents were not in danger.

“Everbridge is not a news source,” noted Vorderer, suggesting that the village consider using other methods to share information about incidents in a timely manner.

“The perception is that the village is hiding something if residents don’t get a message, and that is not the case,” said Trustee Alex Olejniczak (2nd). “The goal is to make sure we get the information out, factually, to the residents.

He objected to the domestic violence cases that have occurred being referred to as “home invasions,” as if an unknown person is breaking into homes.

“I was at the Hooters location and I know the police command staff was doing a great job (ensuring nearby residents were safe),” Olejniczak said.

He said the investigation is ongoing and the owners of Hooters were meeting with village officials to address the situation.

“They fully understand the behaviors that were seen there will not be tolerated by the residents of Oak Lawn,” he said.

Retiring Worth police officer is honored

By Michelle Zalesny Worth Police Officer Jim Kaczmark, also known as “Officer Kaz,” was feted during the Jan. 3 village board meeting on his retirement. A large smile crossed his face when he received a watch as a token of the administration’s appreciation.

“This is kind of bittersweet,” said Mark Micetich, Worth police chief. “He’s been with us for over 22 years. During that time he became full-time in the year 2000 and promoted to squad leader last year. During his time though here, he’s had two stints in the detective division, was part of the South Suburban Major Crimes Task Force, also Southwest Major Case Unit, and was also a member of the Fifth District SWAT Team.”

On behalf of the Fraternal Order of Police, Sgt. Robert Petersen also presented Kaczmark, who began working as a Worth police officer in 1994, with a shadow box of his patches and badges, commemorating his accomplishments throughout his entire career.

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The Worth Village Board honored police officer Jim Kaczmark (fourth from left) during the Jan. 3 board meeting. Congratulating and joining Kaczmark were (from left) trustees Rich Dziedzic, Pete Kats, Colleen McElroy, Mayor Mary Werner, Village Clerk Bonnie Price, and trustees Warren Soldan and Kevin Ryan.

in this building that doesn’t have skin in the game here,” said Kaczmark to a room that was filled with officers in and out of uniform, as well as his family. “And I just want to commend all my brothers and sisters in blue for all they’ve done for me. They’ve had my back, they made sure I went home every night to my family, and I can’t thank them enough.”

Kaczmark personally thanked the village board for the opportunity and honor of being an officer representing the Village of Worth.

He individually thanked Mayor Mary Werner.

“She has been 100 percent behind the police department, as well as this entire board,” said Kaczmark.

“Bonnie Price will do anything for anybody,” Kaczmark said, offering his gratitude to the village clerk. “She is the unofficial member of everyone’s family and I thank you for everything you’ve done for me.”

The meeting wrapped up with a business owner’s public com-

ment on parking restrictions. He expressed the need for 90-minute parking as stated in the parking ordinance that was adopted in 2005. The signs that are located near his business on 111th Street state 60-minute parking and motorcycle parking only.

Werner said that she understands that the situation is confusing and has plans to contact the Illinois Department of Transportation to look into the state road restrictions in order to amend the ordinance to 90-minute parking.

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We come up empty looking for logic after violent acts

I

recall a few lines from “The Dark Knight,” the second installment of Christopher Nolan’s Batman movie trilogy, that seem somewhat pertinent these days.

Michael Caine, who portrays the loyal butler, Alfred Pennyworth, listens as Bruce Wayne, portrayed by Christian Bale, complains about The Joker.

Wayne angrily questions what The Joker’s motives are as the demonic figures terrorizes Gotham City. The older Alfred listens and then has this to say about The Joker, portrayed by the late Heath Ledger: “With respect, Master Wayne, perhaps this is a man you don’t fully understand, either. A long time ago, I was in Burma. My friends and I were working for the local government. They were trying to buy the loyalty of the tribal leaders by bribing them with precious stones. But their caravans were being raided in a forest north of Rangoon by a bandit. So we went looking for the stones.

But in six months, we never met anyone who traded with him. One day I saw a child playing with a ruby the size of a tangerine. The bandit had been throwing them away.”

Wayne, who is also Batman, looks puzzled and asks, “So why steal them?

Alfred’s response was that “he thought it was good sport.

Because some men aren’t looking for anything logical, like money. They can’t be bought, bullied, reasoned or negotiated with.

“Some men just want to watch the world burn.”

The dialogue summed up Ledger’s Joker, a maniacal, evil character whose main purJoe pose was to create chaos.

Boyle The film is somewhat representative of the times we are living in. We try to find some sort of reason why random acts of violence take place. But the frightening fact is that there are people who shoot and kill for no apparent reason. We have seen accounts in newspapers and online. We have seen some footage on TV. Esteban Santiago was deployed in 2010 as part of the Puerto Rico National Guard. He spent a year with an engineering battalion, according to published reports. He has been living the past couple of years in Anchorage, Alaska. This past November, Santiago told FBI agents in Alaska that the government was trying to control his mind and forcing him to watch Islamic State group videos. The FBI agents notified the police after the interview with Santiago, 26, who took him for a mental health evaluation.

What happened after that is not clear. His brother said he was aware of his treatments until just recently.

But we all know what happened since then. Santiago is accused of pulling out a gun in the baggage area at the Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood Interna-

tional Airport last Friday and randomly shooting. Five people were killed and eight were injured. He was taken into custody peacefully.

This is just another reminder that people need to remain vigilant. On the other hand, you can’t live your life in fear.

And these random acts of violence take place more often. It kind of leaves us numb.

According to published reports, the offender took a flight from Anchorage to Minneapolis last Thursday night. He then flew into Fort Lauderdale Friday morning.

One witness told a TV station that the offender just kept coming forward and randomly shooting. He added that he was “shooting at people, no rhyme or reason to it.”

The relatives and friends of the deceased must still be in shock. The families and friends of the eight injured as well. Anyone who was near the scene must be in a state of shock. And the reason for

this man’s actions is not clear.

One report states that Santiago planned this route. No reasons are given. We only have more questions.

I suppose there will be questions of how the alleged gunman Santiago was able to check his gun in a bag and was able to retrieve it and stroll through the baggage area, randomly shooting people.

Some changes at airports could be made to tighten security. Perhaps some laws will be passed. I’m not so sure about that.

But it is hard to defend against random acts of violence. We can live our lives as best we can and be careful.

And then there are people who revert to violence. And there is no rhyme or reason for it.

Logic has no place when someone or a group just wants to watch the world burn.

Joe Boyle is the editor of The Reporter. He can be reached at thereporter@comcast.net.

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4 The Reporter

Our Neighborhood

Thursday, January 12, 2017

St. Patricia students wrap up comforts for those in need St. Patricia Elementary School students in Hickory Hills helped to provide some comfort and care for those in need this past holiday season.

The school partnered with American Airlines Professional Women in Aviation Chicago Base

to lend a helping hand.

Nearly 40 St. Patricia students took part in this project. They were joined by parents and faculty and were involved in repurposing blankets and pillows, wrapping them as gifts for the women’s

shelter Family Promise.

This program was led by St. Patricia alum Christina Garza and family, junior high school teacher Amy Barnard and the St. Patricia students.

Program organizers said they received overwhelm-

ing support to help out with the generous holiday program.

More information about St. Patricia can be obtained by calling the school office, (708) 598-8200, or visit www.stpatriciaparish.com Amy Barnard, a junior high school teacher at St. Patricia School, organizes blankets and pillows that were wrapped as gifts for a women’s shelter.

Submitted photos

A group of students from St. Patricia Elementary School in Hickory Hills were working on wrapping pillows as gifts for a women’s shelter.

Nearly 40 students at St. Patricia Elementary School in Hickory Hills took part in a holiday project in which they provided blankets and pillows for those in need.

Students from St. Patricia School are working on wrapping blankets to benefit a women’s shelter for a holiday project.

Palos Hills approves third and final gambling café

By Michael Gilbert

Palos Hills officials last week narrowly approved amending an ordinance that paves the way for what is to become the third café casino in town.

But before doing so, the council made it clear they were pulling the plug on allowing any more of video gaming cafés to set up shop in the city.

Aldermen voted 6-4 on Jan. 5 to increase the number of Class C2 liquor licenses by one per the request of petitioner Dionisios Pappas, who intends to open a video gaming café called Rosie’s in a vacant storefront at 10301 S. Roberts Road.

Aldermen Pauline Stratton (2nd Ward), A.J. Pasek (3rd Ward), Mike LeBarre (3rd Ward), Ricky Moore (4th Ward), Joe Marrotta (4th Ward) and Dawn Nowak (5th Ward) all voted in favor of amending the ordinance, while aldermen Joan Knox (1st Ward), Marty Kleefisch (1st Ward), Mark Brachman (2nd Ward) and Mary Ann Schultz (5th Ward) voted against.

Rosie’s will join Darla’s Deli and Café, 10602 S. Roberts Road, and the soon-to-be-open Stella’s Place, 111th Street and Southwest Highway, as video gaming cafés in town. And three café casinos in Palos Hills is the magic number, according to Mayor Gerald Bennett.

“I said three (video gaming) cafés (when we) initially started talking about having them in town and this would be the third one,” Bennett said. “I would not support any more as mayor. This is it. I haven’t changed what I said from the beginning.”

During the committee-of-thewhole meeting held prior the city council meeting, Bennett distributed information to the aldermen that showed Palos Hills, with 32 total video gaming terminals, has far fewer machines than nearby Chicago Ridge (92 terminals), Hickory Hills (65), Worth (61) and Oak Lawn (180).

“Out of all the towns, we have the smallest amount of (video gaming) licenses,” Bennett told the council. “We have half — in most cases — of what these other towns have.”

Any restaurant with a liquor license can set up as many as five video gaming terminals in their establishment. Revenue from the machines is broken down four ways, with 25 percent going to the state, 5 percent to the municipality, 35 percent to the establishment owner, and 35 percent to the terminal operator.

The machines generate approximately $7,700 per month for the city, Bennett said.

Despite the additional revenue to the city, Kleefisch, who said he been against video gambling “since Day 1,” reiterated his

stance last week.

“There are too many negatives associated with video gaming and the impact it has on individuals and families,” Kleefisch said. “I don’t want to be a part of someone not able to pay their mortgage because they lost their money playing video games.”

When the council first considered creating a new classification in the liquor ordinance to allow for the video gambling cafés, a few of the supporters said it was a way to fill vacant storefronts in the city. Kleefisch said he understands there are vacancies but does not believe the café casinos are the right fit.

“I’m well aware of the empty storefronts, but my opinion is maybe we need to work even harder than we’ve been working to attract other businesses rather than just say, ‘I’d rather see gambling there than nothing at all,” Kleefisch said. “I know how hard it is to attract businesses but I don’t want to settle.”

Stratton cited the still-not-recovered economy for her ‘yes’ vote.

“Our economy is still not that good,” Stratton said. “The small businessman always needs help, so I certainly would support (Pappas) getting one of the licenses (for a video gaming café).”

Knox wondered if bringing more video gaming terminals to town would negatively impact the

restaurants that already have the machines.

“One of the things we need to look at is that we have existing businesses that have been in town for years that already have machines,” she said. “I could understand the idea (of more video gambling machines) if people were lined up out the door waiting to sit at one of these machines, but I’ve gone to these restaurants and there are open machines all the time.

“So what we are doing by opening these cafés is taking that

money from those businesses that are open and have open machines.

Why couldn’t these people that go and sit at these cafés frequent one of our restaurants that are already serving food and alcohol and give them the business?”

Pappas, a Palos Hills resident who formerly owned Zante Lounge, told Knox “there is a distinct difference between the video game parlor clientele and the clientele that goes into the existing businesses.

“There is a specific breed of people that go into gaming

parlors so if anything we would be competing with the existing gaming parlors in the city and not the businesses,” he said. “The people that go into gaming parlors don’t associate with loud music and bars.”

Pappas added he hopes to open the café “in a couple months,” and that it would serve sandwiches, pizza, beer and wine.

“I want to help the community with the possible revenue,” Pappas said of why he wants to open a café casino in town. “This will occupy a vacant store.”

Compiled by Joe Boyle

News and events from our archives Proposal to move Roberts Park Fire Protection District • 50 years ago

From the Jan. 12, 1967 issue The story: The proposal to relocate the Roberts Park Fire Protection District within the municipal boundaries of Hickory Hills has been put on hold after two separate meetings were held on Jan 8.

Hickory Hills Trustee Jesse Wynek told the audience that if the courts permit the district to retain their present boundaries and tax revenue, the trustees plan to continue the operation of the district from the present location.

Hickory Hills had authorized their attorney to look into acquiring a site at 84th Avenue, south of 91st Street. The rest of the meeting was devoted to an explanation of the boundaries and finances and the requirements for training of volunteer firefighters.

The quote: “As far as I know they are proceeding,” said Wynek.

Chicago Ridge liquor licenses could be revoked • 25 years ago

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From the Jan. 9, 1992 issue The story: The Chicago Ridge Village Board is seeking a change from state legislators in the way liquor licenses are revoked under Illinois statutes.

Under current statutes, anyone found in violation of a liquor license will have the license revoked and be prohibited from obtaining another license for one year, explained Mayor Eugene Siegel. But after a recent board meeting, trustees voted 4-0 to send letters to Illinois legislators requesting a review of current guidelines and change them so that a municipality’s liquor commission would be able to review each case and determine whether the owner of the premises be allowed to rent to another party.

The quote: “Unfortunately, that’s the state statute and we’re bound by it,” said Siegel. “We’re bound and obligated to follow the state statute.”

General manager of Worth golf course steps down • 10 years ago

From the Jan. 11, 2007 issue The story: The general manager of Worth’s municipal golf course will step down next week.

Steve Dell, who was the Water’s Edge Golf Club’s first general manager when the course opened in 1999 is leaving because he has accepted a job managing several Chicago Park District’s golf courses.

Dell was popular with residents and always went the extra miles in his job, according to Worth Trustee Mary Rhein.

The quote: “He was a good manager and I know the residents really appreciated him,” said Rhein.

“He made sure everything is running well, and would hang around after meetings.”

Thursday, January 12, 2017

The Reporter

WHATIZIT?

‘Crazy, nutty’ idea of Southwest Half Marathon turns 10 this year

By Jeff Vorva Sports Editor

Photo by Joe Boyle

The clue for this week’s Whatizit photo (above) is: Water view.

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

We felt that last week’s photo could stump some of our readers, many of whom may have been distracted by presents and party hats.

And indeed, no one guessed that it was the Evergreen Park Village Pantry, 2700 W. 98th St. The Village Pantry Coalition was established by a coalition of churches, representatives of village administration, community organizations and Evergreen Park residents to help Evergreen Park residents who are in need of temporary food assistance in an emergency situation caused by unemployment, illness, a fire or other situations.

Since opening in September, 1981, the Village Pantry has served over 5,500 families. According to local officials, the Village Pantry has distributed food valued in excess of $620,000.

SUDOKU

When then-Palos Heights Ald. Jeff Prestinario approached Mayor Bob Straz about the city hosting a half marathon more than a decade ago, the conversation went something like this: “He said, ‘Are you crazy’ ” Prestinario recalled.

“Actually, I think I used the word ‘nuts,’ ’’ Straz said.

On a frigid Friday last week, the Southwest Half Marathon Committee met at the Palos Heights Recreation Center to get to serious work on the 10th running of the event, which is scheduled for May 7.

This crazy and nutty idea has survived the test of time and is one of the city’s biggest events, as thousands of runners and fans come in for the event.

“This is the 10th year — oh my gosh!’’ said Prestinario, who along with Mel Diab are the co-founders and co-coordinators of the race. “Ten years! Every year, we say, ‘Are we going to do another one?’ It kind of keeps rolling along. It’s amazing.’’

It took two years to get it off the ground, but it finally made its debut in 2008.

“I was a runner at the time and I was a

few pounds less than I am now,” Prestinario said. “Mel approached me and said his dream was to have a long race in the community. It sounded like a great idea. A half marathon race is what he wanted. I said, ‘Whoa , that’s quite a distance.’ We settled on running on Route 83 and it’s worked out pretty well.

“It’s been a good time. It’s been a lot of hard work but we’ve always tried to have some fun with it. We’ve raised a lot of money for charities — more than $200,000. It’s been a good run.’’

Straz said the reason he thought the idea was “crazy” or “nuts’ was because of the logistics of hosting such a huge event.

“I was more concerned with all the coordinating of all the agencies,” Straz said. “I thought we would get the runners. But trying to get the county, the state agencies, police and fire together is a big job. They have it down pat now.’’

Now that it is turning 10, Straz said it’s a good event for the city to run. He is also an official with the CNB Bank, which has partnered with Palos Health as the race’s main sponsor for the second straight year.

“It’s been good exposure for the city,’’ he said. “We’re now known for the race and the idea was to bring people to town to help our economic development. People shop and eat

after the race.

“It’s good for people to see the town. People on the North Side and other places look at the South Suburbs as the vast wasteland of America. When they see what we have here, they realize this is not too bad.’’

The first nine races for the most part have run smoothly and under ideal weather conditions. Last year had some rain at the beginning.

In 2013, the Palos race was running less than a month after the bombing at the Boston Marathon, and security was beefed up. There were visible snipers on the roofs of some buildings as well as snarling and barking police dogs patrolling the area.

“This is how we live now,” Diab, who ran in the tragic Boston race, said after the Palos Heights race. “It’s a part of life.’’

Two years later, the race had its first oddball badge of honor when a bandit was caught in the race.

A bandit is a runner who runs the race without paying. A man who said his name was Juan Munoz of Cicero crossed the finish line first at the 10K portion of the event but it was found that he didn’t enter the race. Diab said it usually happens at bigger races and it was the first time it happened in the Palos Heights races.

The 10K race started in 2014. This year, there are plans for a kids race.

Lipinski

Cong. Dan Lipinski (D-3rd) chats with a constituent following his town hall meeting on Saturday morning at Oak Lawn Community High School.

Continued from Page 1

Answers on Page 9

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

ACROSS

DOWN

1 Drain problem 5 GI sought by MPs 9 Jewish authority figure 14 Fallon’s predecessor 15 “Get a __!”

16 Estate measures 17 Like single-malt scotch 18 Superfl ous individual 20 Food from heaven 22 Long-necked bird 23 Ivy League school 24 Compilation of wacky outtakes 28 Pioneer Carson 29 PC key near Z 30 Eastern path 31 Police warnings 33 Some deli breads 35 Part on the stage 38 Stable female 39 Summer blouse 42 Steer clear of 44 iPhone voice-activated app 45 Hunk of bacon 49 Like many warm sweaters 51 Snaky fish 53 Miner’s discovery 54 Little terror 55 Olympian’s achievement 59 Have to have 61 Flight connection word 62 Capital of Senegal 63 Ride around ... or what the ends of 18-, 24-, 39- and 55-Across can do 67 Single 68 Occupied 69 Currency symbolized by € 70 Coffee holders 71 Fax forerunner 72 Zipped 73 Editor’s “Leave it in”

1 Seaside eatery 2 Within the law 3 Without variation, musically 4 “Please tell me that’s not true” 5 Sitcom E.T. 6 PlayStation 3 rival 7 Put on the market 8 “I’ll handle this” 9 Word before data or deal 10 In need of aspirin 11 Crashing wave 12 Direct route 13 Lands in the sea 19 Shades 21 Abbr. in many an urban address 25 __ of Sandwich 26 Tree anchors 27 Airport waiter 32 Performs hip-hop music 34 Synagogue 36 Polynesian wreath 37 Blundered 40 From square one 41 Concert ticket info 42 “__ to Watch Over Me” 43 Optimistic 46 “Watch it!”

47 Orchestrate 48 Recuperation advice 49 Proceed without preparation 50 Smoked salmon 52 Showed the way 56 Hemingway’s “The Sun Also __” 57 Really enjoy, as praise 58 Allays the fears of 60 Prescription amount 64 Bills coach Ryan 65 Wrath 66 Buddy of Wynken and Blynke Answers on Page 9

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in Congress don’t blindly follow Trump either,” he said.

He expressed concern that Republicans are being fearful of being attacked in tweets by Trump if they do go against him.

“My biggest concern is foreign policy, because that is the area (in which) the president has the most direct control,” Lipinski said. “I am also concerned about moves toward deregulation. Is there any truth to there being overregulation? Yes, but not to the extent they are saying, certainly not with the environment.”

He also asserted that Trump’s tax reform proposals would “blow up the deficit.”

Several people challenged Lipinski on his support for defunding Planned Parenthood, as well as his co-sponsorship of the First Amendment Defense Act during the previous Congress.

Lipinski was the only Democrat to sign on as a sponsor of the First Amendment Defense Act. He said he did so because he felt it would prevent religious organizations from losing their tax-exempt status for opposing gay marriage.

“I think it is important that we defend religious organizations,” Lipinski said. “It’s important that organizations don’t have the federal government coming in and giving them orders.”

But several men and women said the bill would allow religious organizations to withhold numerous services, including health care, from gay married couples and their families.

“The problem is that it would allow policies that would discriminate against people. Illinois already has the Religious Freedom Restoration Act of 1998, so this law is unnecessary and goes too far,” one man in the audience said.

Lipinski said the bill in question died with the old Congress.

Shooting

Continued from Page 1

several officers with the South Suburban Major Crimes Task Force tracked Parks to the outbound Metra train he was on, and boarded it about 10:30 p.m. Friday when it stopped at the Deerfield station in Lake County.

Parks reportedly noticed the police and ran to the second floor of the rail car he was on in an

Photo by Dermot Connolly

When asked to promise not to co-sponsor another similar bill, he declined, saying he would have to wait until he saw it.

“There is not even a bill yet.

There are all kinds of shades of gray,” said Lipinski, pledging instead to discuss the issue with any constituent before co-sponsoring such a bill.

He also was criticized for his support for defunding Planned Parenthood, which he called “the biggest abortion provider in the country.” While some in the crowd shouted that abortions only account for three percent of the services provided, others shouted “stand your ground.”

He said funding taken from Planned Parenthood would be given to other non-profits that provide other women’s health services.

“Maybe we can invest in our community health care centers,” he said.

A Jewish woman who said her grandfather’s family was killed in the Holocaust thanked Lipinski for “coming out against Steve Bannon,” referring to Presidentelect Trump’s chief strategist, and leader of the “alt-right” movement. “I know you’re stridently anti-choice. But given that the Hyde amendment is in place and Planned Parenthood cannot use federal funds for abortions, why attempt to evade them. McCarthy said that when an officer tried to arrest him, Parks broke free and pulled out a handgun, firing several times at police. At least one of the officers fired back, hitting Parks. He was pronounced dead at an area hospital.

There were about 30 passengers on the train at the time, and no passengers were injured.

Several officers did suffer minor injuries while dodging bullets.

should it be defunded?”

She asked if Lipinski had polled his constituents to see if they support his stance.

“No, I haven’t taken a poll. I oppose abortion because science tells us that life begins at conception,” he said.

Lipinski said he voted against the Affordable Care Act, or “Obamacare,” but opposes Republican efforts to repeal it without having anything to replace it.

“It needs to be fixed. It has done some good. I totally understand about having pre-existing conditions,” he said, pointing out that he is a diabetic.

Turning to immigration issues, Lipinski said, “I support strong border security. If that means some form of a wall, so be it.

I have always been in favor of that.”

But he rejected Trump’s claim that Mexico will pay for it.

“Mexico is not going to pay us anything. That was a ridiculous

statement,” he said.

“This might surprise you, but I believe that there is a likelihood that Donald Trump is the president who does comprehensive immigration reform,” Lipinski told his audience. “But first we need to secure our borders.”

He said he opposed deporting undocumented people using information they submitted to get legal status under the Dream Act for those who entered the country illegally as minors.

“I believe the DREAMers will be taken care of,” he said. “We’ve got to figure out what we need to have internal enforcement,” he said, asserting that 40 percent of illegals have overstayed visas.

“I think the ones who are working but not taking jobs from Americans should be allowed to stay. Donald Trump said we would go after the two million who have become criminals.

“Stay tuned. Let’s see where this all goes,” he said.

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6 The Reporter

COMMENTARY

THE

Thursday, January 12, 2017

REPORTER

An Independent Newspaper Published Weekly Founded March 16, 1960

Ray Hanania

State budget woes continue in 2017 he first week of January has passed and that means grade school and high school students are back in the classroom.

Board meetings are back in session and local organizations are gathering for meetings.

And this week, state legislators are back at work after the holidays. This is a subject we have not talked about in quite awhile.

Will there ever be an agreement on a state budget? In some of the stories we have read recently and from local officials we have talked to, an agreement on a budget is no more likely in 2017 than it was in 2016.

We have to go back several months when the budget was being discussed. Gov. Bruce Rauner originally stated that he did want to agree to a stopgap budget. However, Rauner did just that last summer because he believed an agreement was reached that meant some of his demands in his turnaround agenda would be addressed in January.

But from conversations we have had with some local legislators, most of those demands will not be met. Some Democrats and Republicans have stated that there is movement on some other issues. But what compromises will be met remains to be seen.

Most of the headlines this week focus on the violence in Chicago, President-elect Donald Trump and the shootings at a Fort Lauderdale, Fla., airport. Eventually the state budget will be back in the headlines.

This all comes down to Rauner and House Speaker Michael Madigan (D-22nd). Can these two find some middle ground? Madigan is blamed by his critics of orchestrating the delay of payments to pensions while rewarding his supporters with lucrative deals. We believe that is too simplistic. But it is true that Madigan’s power stems from state representatives who often support him on most issues. These state reps support him because Madigan backed them.

If they do not support him, he will find someone to run against them.

But Madigan is also a tireless worker who knows the law. Supporters of Rauner believe that Madigan needs to be taken down a few notches. But at what cost? The problem for Rauner is that he needs to introduce a budget. Instead, he goes back and forth from several of his turnaround agenda items, such as limitations on unions and right-to-work decrees. He should steer away from this language when initiating a budget.

Both Madigan and Rauner are stubborn men. But both need to rise above their disagreements and work out a budget for the good of the people of Illinois. We have schools that need funding and charitable organizations that need help. This constant bickering is not helping anybody, especially seniors on fixed incomes and our local cities and municipalities that are trying to provide services and serve their constituents.

The bottom line here: We don’t see a light at the end of the tunnel. Rauner and Madigan are in a grudge match in which neither apparently is going to blink. You’d think someone like Madigan, with his experience, could persuade Rauner to compromise on some of his stands. In the case of Rauner, he may feel justified in dragging this budget stalemate out, but what good is it to burn down the house and start over? A lot of people will be hurting and organizations will cease to exist while he proves his point.

We did not think it was possible that we’d be operating without a budget entering the governor’s race in 2018. But it looks like that’s where we are headed. We hope we are wrong.

Farewell to a brilliant First Lady, Michelle Obama

T

LETTER TO THE EDITOR Agency opposes Trump appointments The key role of the Environmental Protection Agency is to ensure that all Americans can enjoy clean air to breathe, clean water to drink, and have their health protected from environmental and climate threats.

In order to pass safeguards to meet its mission, the EPA bases decisions and policy entirely on science rather than guesses or assumptions by those who are not experts. While this may appear shocking to those not working at the agency or in environmental and/or climate science fields currently, it’s this process that has protected communities across the country from acid rain, smog, and a litany of threats.

That’s why President-elect Donald Trump’s recent announcement that he plans to appoint fossil fuel ally, climate-denying Scott Pruitt as EPA administrator is appalling and unacceptable.

As Attorney General for the state of Oklahoma, Scott Pruitt regularly conspired with the fossil fuel industry to attack EPA regulations and describes himself as “a leading advocate against the EPA’s activist agenda.” He is clearly unfit to head this important, life-protecting agency. Add Exxon CEO Rex Tillerson for Secretary of State and climate-denying Rick Perry for Energy Secretary and you have the makings of one of the most anti-environmental cabinets in recent history.

That’s why we’re calling on Sen. Dick Durbin and Sen. Tammy Duckworth - and all citizens - to oppose these nominations. Nothing less than our children’s health and the health of our planet are at stake.

— Sauk-Calumet Sierra Group Executive Committee

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I 2016 was a year for the ages

By Don C. White Wow! What a year. I told you early in the year that it might just be a wild ride and to hang on and hang in there. And we all did and we all helped make history.

Yes, the year 2016 will go down in the history books. Not all for the good, not all for the bad. Some may even say that 2016 was a historical year and others may say it was a hysterical year.

Stop and think about what just happened in the presidential election. The system worked just as the Founding Fathers intended it to. This election allowed the smaller states to be heard. It did not, nor does not matter that Hillary Clinton won the popular vote by almost three million votes. It was the Heartland and that sea of red that put Donald Trump over the top.

He spoke to the working people of America and told them that America can and will be great again. And that is what the people wanted to hear. With all the states voting, Trump had 304 electoral votes and Clinton had 227. It was not a landslide, but it does send a message to those in Washington that changes are a coming.

Clinton’s wide popular vote margin came from the East and West coasts and here in Cook County. She fought a good fight but it was not good enough to take the Gold.

And remember what she and the party did to poor Bernie.

While our election was taking place, the rest of the world was in turmoil. It seemed as though every week there was a crisis in one of these countries: the Philippines, Iraq, Syria, Brazil, North and South Korea and Brussels and Turkey. Also, let’s not forget the terrorist attacks in France, Germany and America that caused so many deaths.

As I worked on this article there was news that the city of Aleppo in Syria has been nearly wiped off the map. Meanwhile, President Obama sat by and drew another line in the sand. Russia and Turkey have been trying to broker a cease fire in Syria, but it was much too late to help the people of Aleppo. Then there was President Obama’s historic trip to Cuba. (He certainly Is the most traveled American president who ever held office.) And he was able to make it to all 57 of the United States during his eight years in office. Another quote that caught my attention was “Carter should be relieved that Obama became president.”

While these horrible things were happening around the world, those people living in the neighborhoods of Chicago were plagued with everyday gun violence that made for a heartbreaking year. Chicago had more gun deaths than New York and Los Angles combined. As 2016 came to an end there were a number of very good articles in

the papers, full of suggestions and possible solutions to the gun violence. A front-page headline said, “A tough path to solutions.”

Now is the time to stop talking and writing about the problem and to take some action to solve the problem.

There was a picture of the beautiful and poignant march with loved ones carrying a cross for each one of the over 750 people killed in Chicago in 2016. This march sent a message to City Hall and the gangs that the violence in Chicago must end. It said loud and clear that the new year has to bring them hope.

A headline that caught my attention in reference to the violent year in Chicago was “Grim milestones add up in ’16.” I don’t believe that “milestones” was a proper word to describe the horrible events that brought so much grief o so many families. My family has lived in the Chicago area for almost 50 years and it saddens me to know that the spotlight still shines on the city of grim milestones.

It was also a heartbreaking year for the loss of so many celebrities in all walks of life. I will just name a few that touched my life in some small way: Gene Wilder, Gwen Ifill, John Glenn, Merle Haggard, Carrie Fisher and Debbie Reynolds.

If we want to talk about milestones in life, one would be the 75th anniversary of the attack on Pearl Harbor. That too may be considered a grim milestone. It brought the nation into WWII and it should have been the war to end all wars, but alas, it was not.

I just recently lost one of my buddies from the V.A. who served in WWII. His name was John C. and he was on the beaches of Normandy on D-Day. He had so many stories to tell and sorry to say I can’t repeat them. He, as well as other WWII veterans, received a medal from the French government late in 2016. Within a few weeks of that, John became quite ill and died shortly afterward. He was 94 years old. Rest in peace, my friend.

I dislike ending this on a sour note but it needs to be said. If the Democrats don’t dump Speaker Madigan then the state of Illinois is doomed. We have lost a number of House seats due to our loss of population in the past 30 years and in 2020 we may lose two more. Enough is enough. It is time for those elected to serve us here in Illinois to stand up and be counted. Set party affiliation aside and have the guts to stand up to Madigan and Cullerton or ride the bus over the cliff. Goodbye, Illinois.

America, come together. Make our Founding Fathers proud.

Don C. White is a Palos Hills historian who occasionally shares his views on current events.

Americans need to stay motivated

By Dr. Glenn Mollette One of the greatest internal dynamics that any human can possess is motivation. Life is very difficult for many Americans because they have lost their motivation. I recently saw a story about a 100-year-old man who sky dived out of an airplane. The reporter covering the story said he also enjoys doing yoga and apparently enjoys living an active life.

I’m amazed with a local friend of mine who at the age of almost 80 continues to build and sell hotels. He owns several but occasionally sells a couple for a lot of money and then builds another one or two.

He started with very little but just kept trying and today he has millions of dollars.

We’ve all heard stories of people who just kept trying. We hear the success stories but often we don’t hear too much about all the people who spent years trying and eventually gave up. They became discouraged and gave up.

Nashville has hundreds of gifted musicians who have never made it to the top and thousands more who gave up and went home. Hollywood and New York and other entertainment cities have had lots of starving artists who never made it to the level they aspired. Lots of people have dreamed of being president of the United States and worked hard to achieve their goal. But it hasn’t happened for them and never will.

Millions have dropped out of college, failed at marriage, failed as parents, failed at dieting and exercise and feel hopeless at life.

How do you stay motivated when you feel like you have failed? Do something you enjoy.

Why do we have to be so serious all the time?

Life is serious. People get sick and die. We battle cancer and other diseases. We struggle with money and relationships and other people complicate our lives. The hardest thing you may accomplish this week is to do something

fun. But I suggest you to engage in something that is entertaining and fun for you.

Too many Americans are burned out in survival mode. They desperately tread the choppy waters of life. Stress, lack of sleep and worries fill their every day. You might die tomorrow so what is there that you might enjoy doing today? Doing something that brings a smile to your face occasionally is good for your heart and spirit. I always found that if I enjoy something just a little then I am drawn to it like a magnet.

Don’t jump off cliffs without a parachute.

If you have a day job then hold onto it until something else works out. Having a stable job of some sort is usually tiring and stressful. However, if you have a paycheck coming in then you have the mental wherewithal to experiment and be creative. You will have less time to be creative but at least you will have food in your stomach while you are trying. Stability normally gives us a foundation to stand on and enhances motivation.

Occasionally write down three or four things that you want to do. Your list might include planting a garden for this spring, Maybe you would like to join an exercise class, start walking a mile every day or start a new business venture. Writing it down and looking at your list for a few days will remind you about what is important.

Try to forget failures and disappointments. We all have them. We’ve tried things that didn’t work but occasionally something works and when it does, it’s gratifying.

Finally, have something that you are going to do tomorrow. We must have something that we want to do tomorrow so that we are motivated to get out of bed, shower and pursue the day.

Glenn Mollette is a syndicated columnist and author of 11 books. He can be contacted at GMollette@aol.com

t’s amazing how individual fortunes can turn on a dime.

One day you can be a mother of two children concerned about your husband’s political fortunes, and the next, you’re one of the most inspiring women in the world.

I first met Michelle Obama sometime in March 2004. She was sitting quietly and unnoticed by everyone in the ice cream parlor at the Museum of Science and Industry’s Yesterday’s Main Street with her two children, Malia, who was walking around with ice cream, and Sasha, who was in a stroller.

At the time, Michelle seemed like any average person with the same challenges facing any young family.

My son, Aaron, was only 3 years old at the time — about Shasha’s age — and he walked up to the stroller the way children of the same age often do.

They just know how to connect. Michelle said Aaron was cute and smiled.

Michelle was with a political PR maven I have known for a long time, Delmarie Cobb. It was Cobb who I first said hello to and it was Cobb who introduced me to Michelle.

No one at that time, including Michelle Obama, had any idea of the amazing adventure that she was about to begin.

I spoke at length with Cobb, a wellknown and successful public relations professional, and had a few words of courteous greetings with Michelle. I asked her to give my regards to her husband, 13th District Illinois State Sen. Barack Obama.

Barack Obama and I shared a mutual friend, Tony Rezko, a brilliant American Arab businessman who did so much for so many people but who was crucified because of his ties to Gov. Rod Blagojevich, who got everyone around him into real trouble.

But that spring in 2004, Barack Obama was engaged in the political fight of his life for the U.S. Senate seat that was being vacated by the mercurial and unpredictable incumbent, U.S. Sen. Peter Fitzgerald.

The Republican Party abandoned Fitzgerald and instead backed wealthy young businessman Jack Ryan, who defeated Jim Oberweis for the GOP nomination. Ryan’s Democratic opponent was Obama. I had met Ryan and he was tough and articulate, and he knew the issues. And, he had unlimited funding for his campaign.

Everyone predicted Ryan would easily win and Obama would experience his second major defeat. Obama failed to unseat the do-nothing Congressman in the 1st District, Bobby Rush. Losing to Rush was a sign you were not very popular and might never be.

It seemed certain that Obama, the state senator from the obscure 13th District, was going to tank in the election, too. It was all so certain at the time. And then, the unexpected happened.

Fate has a way of changing things.

Ryan dropped out of the race in June 2004, a few months after my chance meeting with Michelle Obama. The news media had started to delve into the dirty details of his 1999 divorce from Hollywood actress Jeri Ryan, which was under seal. The exaggerated whispers about what was in the divorce file were horrible.

The Republican Party, which bullied Fitzgerald out of the race, was now scrambling to find Ryan’s replacement.

They turned to the mercurial political gadfly and radio talk show host Alan Keyes. Keyes ran and lost for president twice and had come from out-of-state to succeed Ryan in Illinois.

Obama’s fortunes changed dramatically. Obama’s speech at the Democratic National Convention that July took on new meaning. Obama was introduced to America as a “political phenom.” And his landslide victory over Alan Keyes that November, 70 percent to 27 percent, jettisoned him to the Washington Beltway FastTrack.

He never stopped. You know the rest of the story.

I admire Michelle Obama and regret not getting a photo of her with my son.

Not only was she a beautiful person, but America has also learned how a person can be both gracious and compassionate.

Her speeches have been inspiring.

She made the past eight years of politics so much more acceptable.

The legacy of President Barack Obama may still be in the process of being defined, but one thing is for sure: Michele Obama has made her mark and she deserves our gratitude.

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

Thursday, January 12, 2017

The Reporter

7

Cutting the clutter and making life decisions in new year

M

y 2017 is starting off clean!

I’ve spent the previous two weeks hauling donations to various charitable organizations. A huge bin of books went to the Evergreen Park Public Library. A trunk full of household items went to the Thrift Store on 91st and Western, and two carloads of toys went to the Salvation Army on 87th and Cicero.

Yes, I’m aware of several charities that would’ve scooped these donations right from my doorstep, but I had zero desire to schedule a pickup, I wanted everything gone — straightaway!

I’ve since found myself migrating about my house, admiring its tidiness. “Thank you, Lord, for my home!” I’ve repeatedly whispered that in prayer accompanied by deep inhalations of the refreshing fragrance coupled with having a clean house.

I didn’t just get rid of stuff, I emptied every drawer, cabinet, tote, and bin, only choosing to put back what I’d take ‘if’ I were hypothetically going to move. That was the only way I could rationalize whether I truly wanted to keep what I kept.

I’d ask myself, “Claudia, if you were moving into your dream house, would you take

this?” I only wanted to retain items that were useful and needed, regardless of their value. The things that weren’t being used had become clutter, mounting in areas I found myself too busy to address, until now.

“Enough is enough!” I told myself. “It’s ALL got to go!”

I’m not limiting this purging to household items. I’m looking to shed those extra holiday pounds I’ve packed on as well. So, I went back to Weight Watchers. I’m a lifetime member, but I haven’t been in eons. To qualify as a lifetime member, you must hit your goal weight and maintain it by weighing no more than two pounds over that goal for six weeks. At the end of that maintenance period you be-

come a lifetime member.

I only want to lose 10 pounds, and guess what?

Weight Watchers has a special through Jan. 16 where if you lose 10 pounds within your first two months, those two months are free! It’s a double reward. Lose the weight within a reasonable period of time and you don’t have to pay. That’s a no-brainer!

I exercise regularly and it’s given me a false sense of security. I haven’t been monitoring my food choices. My school of thought has been, “I exercise so I can eat/drink whatever I want.” I’ve been so naïve. When I learned a 12-ounce can of soda was equivalent to a Weight Watchers entree, I was bewildered. My workouts could’ve been far more effective had I not been self-sabotaging with poor choices.

Unfortunately, there’s more than fat to trim from my life.

There are relationships I’m cutting loose. The dream killers are being eliminated. I find it exhausting trying to maintain interactions with people who lack any ambition to move beyond the status quo. I’m sure some of you have a person in mind that lacks initiative to improve their own life, so they despise you for the progression

you’re experiencing in yours.

Out. Out. OUT! It doesn’t even need to be stated —no argument or confrontation necessary. Just make yourself less and less available until the communication and relationship has dissipated.

We’ll have a better chance of reconvening with these people in a different life season if we recognize when a hibernation period is warranted.

I’ve found clearing the clutter in my life brings about new opportunities, fresh ideas and creativity. I desire to be my best self so that I can be a better wife, mother and citizen in my community.

I dare not diminish my successes of 2016. There was much to be grateful for. Yet, there were also areas noted “room for improvement.”

Let the dawn of a new day cast a ray of light on the areas you need to declutter. Don’t allow any area of your life to remain in disarray. Join me and confess your life clean in 2017!

Claudia Parker is an author, photographer and a reporter.

Her columns appear every second and fourth Thursday of each month. She can be reached at AuthorClaudiaParker@yahoo.com.

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

EVERGREEN PARK Evergreen Park Seniors will celebrate new year The Evergreen Park Senior Council will ring in the new year with a special program beginning at 11 a.m. Thursday, Jan. 19 at the Evergreen Park Senior Center, 9547 S. Homan Ave. Gavin Yeaman, from the Evergreen Park Public Works Department, will be the guest speaker for event. A chili mac lunch will be provided. Entertainers Steve and Trisha will sing holiday songs, including “Let It Snow, Let It Snow.”

The fee is $7 for the luncheon. Ticket must be purchased by Friday, Jan. 13 at the Community Center, 3450 W. 97th St., Room 107.

More information can be obtained by calling (708) 422-8776. Canned good donations for the Evergreen Park Village Pantry will be accepted.

‘The Big Broadcast’ will be staged at Community Center The Candlelight Theatre production of “The Big Broadcast” will be held beginning at 7 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 21 at the Evergreen Park Community Center, 9547 S. Homan Ave. Tickets are available at the Community Center. The one-night performance is a recreation of an old-time radio Big Band broadcast complete with vocals and radio comedy.

More information can be obtained by calling (708) 229-3343.

OAK LAWN Winter Bible Study to begin at Pilgrim Faith Church The Winter Bible Study program will be held from 7 to 8:15 p.m. Tuesdays for six weeks beginning Jan. 17 at Pilgrim Faith United Church of Christ, 9411 S. 51st Ave., Oak Lawn.

The sessions are called “God Got Me This Far – Now What?” The Winter Bible study will delve into the second half of the Exodus story in which God’s people learn and often forget to go with God during the daily grind of life. Pastor Peggy McClanahan will lead the discussion.

Classes will meet through Feb. 21 in the church lounge. Participants should enter through the courtyard in front of the church of 51st Avenue. The sessions are open to everyone. To enroll, contact the church office at (708) 422-4200 or office@pilgrimfairth.org.

Oak Lawn Park District Preschool to hold two open houses The Oak Lawn Park District Preschool will hold two open houses for families of children ages 3 and 4 this month.

The first open house, “Learn as Your Grow I and II programs,” will be held from 6 to 7 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 17 in the Little White Building, 9514 S. 55th Ave., Oak Lawn.

The second open house, “PlaySchool and PrepSchool, “will be held from 6 to 7 p.m.

Wednesday, Jan. 18.

The open houses are free to attend and are an opportunity to meet with the preschool program teachers, check out the facilities, and to receive detailed information about the 2017-18 Oak Lawn Park District Preschool program. More information can be obtained by calling (708) 857-2200.

Oak Lawn film group to view, discuss ‘Sex, Lies and Videotape’ CineVerse, the Oak Lawn Park District’s weekly film discussion group open to anyone age 17 and older, will screen and discuss the 1989 film “Sex, Lies and Videotape” from 7 to 10 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 18 at the Oak View Community Center, 4625 W. 110th St., Oak Lawn.

Members should check the building signage for the correct room number. More information can be obtained by calling (708) 529-9028 or visit cineversegroup.blogspot.com.

Trip to see ‘Saturday Night Fever Show’ The Oak Lawn Park District is headed to Drury Lane in Oakbrook on Thursday, March 2 for the “Saturday Night Fever Show.”

The bus will depart at 11 a.m. from the Community Pavilion, 9401 S. Oak Park Ave., Oak Lawn, and is scheduled to return at 5 p.m. The fee is $80 for residents and $90 for non-residents. The show is recommended for ages 13 and over. Some of the material may be sensitive for younger viewers.

The production is based on the 1977 hit film. “Saturday Night Fever” follows Brooklyn teen Tony Manero in his attempt to escape his tribulations by spending weekends at the local discotheque Tony tries to win the admiration of the crowd and his heartthrob, Stephanie Mangano, with his dance moves.

The show features Bee Gees songs from the movie such as “Stayin’ Alive,” “More Than a Women,” and “Night Fever.”

Lunch will be choice of pecan crusted tilapia with creamy roasted garlic butter, or grilled boneless pork chop with apple sauerkraut, garden salad, dinner rolls, choice of nonalcoholic beverage, chef’s selection of potato, vegetable and dessert.

More information can be obtained by calling (708) 857-2200.

Winter StoryWalk The Oak Lawn Library and the Oak Lawn Park District will take part in the new Winter StoryWalk activity and book, “The Three Snow Bears” by Jan Brett from 1 to 2 p.m.

Monday, Jan. 16 at the Lake Shore Park, 9600 E. Shore Drive, Oak Lawn. An arts and crafts project will be available. Register online for the free event through the library or park district to be guaranteed a craft. For more information, call (708) 857-2200.

Fish Fry Fridays to begin at Stony Creek Restaurant Fish Fry Fridays will be held beginning in January at the Stony Creek Restaurant and Banquets, 5850 W. 103rd St., Oak Lawn.

Open seating is available from 3 to 8 p.m.

Jan. 20 through April 14. The all-you-caneat menu price includes fresh made creamy clam chowder or Stony Creek garden salad, warm diner rolls, homemade coleslaw, lightly seasoned and breaded fresh fruit, homemade hush puppies, baked potato or french fries.

Shrimp po’ boy is made to order for $6.95 a sandwich.

The cost is $12.95 for adults and $7.95 for children, ages 10 and under. Tax and gratuity are not included in price. A cash bar is available. For more information, contact (708) 857-2433.

Winter Luau Open Skate to be held at Oak Lawn Ice Arena The Winter Luau Open Skate event will be held from 1 to 2:30 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 22 at the Oak Lawn Park District Ice Arena, 9320 S. Kenton Ave. Family members can take part in the skating event. Treats, raffles and treat bags will be included in the festivities. Admission is $7 and skate rental is $3. For more information, call (708) 857-5173.

PALOS HILLS Skate Under the Stars The City of Palos Hills Resource and Recreation Department will be offering their annual Skate Under the Stars event on Friday, Jan. 27 at Glacier Park, 101st Street and 73rd Avenue, Palos Hills.

The event is scheduled to begin at 7 p.m. and end at 8:30 p.m. Residents can call ahead about ice conditions at (708) 430-4500.

Open gym for youngsters The Palos Hills Resource and Recreation Center also offers an open gym for kids walking to 3 years old and their parents and caregivers from 9:30 to 11 a.m. Fridays at the Palos Hills Community Center, 8455 W. 103rd St.,

The fee for residents is $2 per child or $3 per child for non-residents. The program begins Jan. 13 and continues through May 12. For further information, contact the City of Palos Hills Resource and Recreation Department at (708) 430-4500.

WORTH Lunch story craft mania Lunch story craft mania will be held beginning this month at the Worth Park District Terrace Centre, 11500 S. Beloit Ave. Classes are for ages 3 to 5 and will be held from noon to 12:45 p.m. Wednesdays, Jan. 18 through Feb. 10. The sessions will have a different story each week from the same authors. Children will explore different stories, discussing them, and making a related project.

The registration fee is $20 for residents and $25 for non-residents. More information can be obtained by calling (708) 448-7080 or visit the park district’s website at www. worthparkdistrict.org.

Anne Romagnoli

‘First Lady of Accordians’ dies at the age of 90

By Tim Hadac Anne Romagnoli (nee Piatanesi), a southwest suburban businesswoman and nationally acclaimed authority on accordion manufacture and repair, died Jan. 6 at age 90.

Mrs. Romagnoli was the longtime owner of the Italo-American Accordion Manufacturing Company, widely known as the Midwest’s premier new and used accordion company. Many considered her to be the Chicago area’s First Lady of Accordions.

The company has been located in Oak Lawn at 5510 W. 95th St. since 1996, when it moved from its longtime home in Chicago’s Gage Park neighborhood, at 3137 W. 51st St. It was founded in the early 1900s in the city’s Little Italy neighborhood and purchased

by Mrs. Romagnoli’s father and uncles in 1915.

Mrs. Romagnoli and her husband, Giuseppe “Joe” Romagnoli — known as the last man in America who could build an accordion from scratch — owned the business from the early 1950s until his death in 1994.

Mrs. Romagnoli also was owner of the Republic Music School of Chicago, which for years was headquarters at 59th and Kedzie in Chicago, across the street from the Colony Theatre. At the school, Mrs. Romagnoli taught accordion to hundreds of students, young and old.

In the 1950s, before guitar bands like the Beatles would later cause accordion music to plummet in popularity among the young, Italo-American employed as many as 100 people. Today, it has a few staffers.

The company no longer manufactures accordions, but imports new models from Castelfidardo, Italy, the world capital of accordion manufacturing, where the Romagnoli family has its roots.

The company repairs different types of accordions, concertinas and related instruments, mostly for musicians playing in Mexican, Italian, Polish and Germanstyle bands.

A talented musician who played by ear, Mrs. Romagnoli was known to play the accordion at weddings and other family celebrations.

DEATH NOTICE Dorothy Bruinius Dorothy M. “Dot” Bruinius (nee Hartog), 79, a former Evergreen Park resident, died Jan. 4 at her Frankfort home.

Mrs. Bruinius was a secretary.

Survivors include her husband, Bernard “Butch” Bruinius; daughters, Terri Boonstra and Dawn Gibson; sons, Bernard Jr. and Glenn; sisters Jacqueline Van Ryn, Karen Blummer and Diane Decker; and brother, Henry Hartog.

Services were from Colonial Chapel to Christian Reformed Church.

Interment was at Evergreen Cemetery.

Worth Park District to take part in youth basketball league In cooperation with the Worth Park District, Palos Park and Palos Heights Parks and Recreation Departments, a youth basketball league for boys and girls grades one through eight will be offered beginning Jan. 28 at the new Palos Heights Recreation Center, 6601 W. 127th St., Palos Heights.

An eight-game season will be held with all games played at the new Palos Heights Recreation Center. Fees vary according to grade.

For more information on the Youth Basketball Program and other Worth Park District programs and services, call (708) 448-7080 or visit the park district’s website at www. worthparkdistrict.org.

Creative toddlers Creative Toddler sessions will be held for adults and toddlers from 9:30 to 10:15 a.m. on Thursdays beginning Jan. 19 until Feb. 9 at the Terrace Centre, 11500 S. Beloit Ave., Worth.

The program is for ages 12 months to 21/2 years old. The adult fee is $20 for residents and $25 for non-residents. The registration deadline is today (Thursday, Jan. 12). The parent-toddler art class will be creating a variety of artwork to display. Participants will be using various mediums, paints, crayons and markers.

For more information on the Creative Toddlers and other Worth Park District programs and services, call (708) 448-7080 or visit the park district’s website at www.worthparkdistrict.org.

Worth Real Estate Board to hold hearing The Village of Worth Real Estate Development Board will be held at 7 p.m. Monday, Jan. 23 at the Worth Village Hall, 7112 W. 111th St. A public hearing will be held to consider an ordinance approving a text amendment to Title 5, Chapter 6 of the Village of Worth Municipal Code to modify the village’s regulations concerning internal structure visibility in the B1 Restricted Retail Business Zoning District and the B2 General Business Zoning District.

‘Girls Night Out’ session

A “Girls Night Out” will be held from 6 to 9 p.m. Friday, Jan. 27 at the Worth Park District’s Terrace Centre, 11500 S. Beloit Ave. Women can attend this session and learn about jewelry making, makeovers and socializing with friends. A movie and snacks will also be provided. The registration fee is $8 for residents and $16 for non-residents.

More information can be obtained by calling Girls Night Out and other Worth Park District programs by calling (708) 448-7080 or visit the park district’s website at www. worthparkdistrict.org.

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708-974-4410 FUNERAL HOME David Gaidas, Jr. Director

11028 Southwest Highway Palos Hills, IL 60465

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CONSUMER NEWS

8 The Reporter COMINGS & GOINGS

Financial advisor could help provide answers

Balagio Ristorante plans new location

A

B

alagio Ristorante, an Italian restaurant and banquet hall that has been open in Homewood since 1997, plans to open a second location in Mokena next month.

The restaurant is remodeling the former Scrementi’s restaurant at 9716 W. 191st St. in Mokena’s Boulevard shopping center, which closed last year.

Calls for comment to Balagio owner Michael Galderio were not returned.

Balagio’s in Homewood is open for lunch and dinner.

Bob This was the second Bong time Scrementi’s has closed its Mokena location. The original location is in Steger.

Its first Mokena location opened in 2010 in the former Angelino’s and closed several months later when the building was purchased and the restaurant was forced out.

The second location opened in 2012 in the Boulevard and was open for lunch and dinner.

Photo by Bob Bong

Homewood’s Balagio Ristorante plans to open a second location next month in Mokena’s Boulevard shopping center near 191st Street and LaGrange Road.

Sporting a new look is Brookfield Ale House, which reopened at 8900 Fairview Ave. after an extensive interior and exterior renovation project.

Another Brookfield business that recently reopened after a renovation and facade upgrade was Paisans Pizza at 3720 Grand Blvd. The restaurant still has pizza but added a new menu, gourmet burgers and new drink options. There is also outdoor seating, when weather permits.

Paisans reopened Dec. 21 with a ribbon cutting attended by Ketchmark, Trustee Michelle Ryan and Village Clerk Brigid Weber.

Checkers opens in Lansing

Brookfield welcomes new businesses

Brookfield has welcomed two new businesses while two old ones now have new looks.

Mayor Kit Ketchmark and Secretary of State Jesse White gave a warm welcome to three of the businesses last year.

The two new ones were Strive 4 Fitness at 3749 ½ Grand Blvd. and Farmers Insurance at 8922 Fairview Ave.

Tampa-based Checkers Drive-Ins opened a new restaurant last month in Lansing.

The hamburger joint opened in late December at 17701 S. Torrence Ave. and features late-night hours and indoor seating as well as its drive-through lane.

This is the second time around in Lansing for Checkers, which also operates Rally’s Hamburgers and had a Rally’s location at Wentworth Avenue and Ridge Road several years ago.

The Lansing location is open from 10 a.m. to 4 a.m. Sunday to Thursday, and from 10 a.m. to 5 a.m. Friday and Saturday.

It is one of several Checkers being developed in the south suburbs by Checkers franchisee Aby Group of Companies.

The Limited closes stores The Limited announced Saturday that it would be closing all of its stores but would continue to sell its fashions and accessories via its website.

The company was founded in 1963 and operated mall specialty stores in Orland Square Mall in Orland Park and Chicago Ridge Mall in Chicago Ridge in the south suburbs.

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

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

Oak Lawn Chamber of Commerce plans installation dinner The 71st annual Oak Lawn Chamber of Commerce installation and dinner will be held on Saturday, Jan. 21 at the Hilton Oak Lawn, 9333 S. Cicero Ave. Members will honor the new 2017 officers and directors for the chamber. Tickets are $50 per person and include a four-course dinner, cash bar and entertainment by The CoverGirls Violin Show.

Cocktails will begin at 6 p.m., followed by the installation of the board of directors.

Dinner is scheduled to be served at 7:30 p.m. Business awards are scheduled to be presented at 8:45 p.m. The entertainment begins at 9 p.m.

Adam Woodworth, director of The Children’s Museum in Oak Lawn, will be inducted as the 2017 president of the Oak Lawn Chamber of Commerce.

“I’m honored to be serving as the Oak Lawn Chamber of Commerce’s 2017 presi-

dent. The Chamber of Commerce has 380 member businesses; many of these businesses are owned by local residents and employ local residents. We’ll be working with Oak Lawn businesses in 2017 to encourage people in and around Oak Lawn to Shop Oak Lawn,” Woodworth said.

Woodworth succeeds Larry Lehman, of Southland Accounting and Tax. Also to be included will be Kevin Mathers, of KGM Home Inspection, who will become second vice president; Dr. Katie Narbone, Complete Vision Care, treasurer; and Erin Foley, of the Oak Lawn Library.

The Installation of the 2017 board will be led by Dr. Sandra Bury, the Oak Lawn mayor. Members of the board include Carmen Abscal, from I Love Blue Pencils; Mike Abdallah, Style 95 Barber Shop; Paul Belsky, St. Xavier University; Peggy Burke, First American Bank; George

Cachares, Fyzical Therapy and Balance Center of Oak Lawn; Phil Costello, Oak Lawn District; Joe Cwiklinski, Century 21 Affiliated; Bernard Deir, Midwest Business Consulting; Kathleen Farrell, Oak Lawn Bank & Trust; Dr. David Finkelstein, Oak Lawn Foot & Ankle; Will Gilliam, Advocate Christ Medical Center; Greg Greiman, Hayes Local Marketing; Eileen Kerlin-Walsh, Law Office of Eileen Kerlin-Walsh; Jim Makina, Allegra Print and Marketing; Ginger Morgan, Thompson and Kuenster Funeral Home; Don Murphy, American Family Insurance Agency; Jose Pareja, JP Architects, Ltd; Steve Radice, Village of Oak Lawn Economic Development; Dr. Michael Riordan, superintendent of Oak Lawn Community High School District 229; Jeff Reynolds, Nothing Bundt Cakes; Charlike Shirk, Hilton Oak Lawn; and Michael Sutko, World Travel Mart.

BEST OF THE WINE GUY

‘An apple a day’ ... actually is a very good idea “An apple a day keeps the doctor away” is an old saying that emphasizes that the crisp red or green fruits are exceptionally good for you.

But, did you know the saying actually has a lot of merit?

And they not only can keep the doctor away but the dentist as well. And they can help the children at home, along with the adults.

Apples are a natural way to stimulate bodily secretions, and are truly a health-builder and disease killer. It is a food, beverage, tonic, medicine, cosmetic and bowel regulator.

It may rightly be called “the social fruit” because it creates friendliness and good fellowship at any gathering.

Apples are great body cleansers and blood purifiers, and can help treat a laundry list of

Thursday, January 12, 2017

ailments and maladies including constipation, sluggish liver, brain fog, dropsy, dyspepsia, gout, obesity, skin eruptions, poor complexion, cystitis, headaches, jaundice, gonorrhea, indigestion, tender gums, anemia, insomnia, neuritis, gall stones, rheumatism, nervousness, halitosis and arthritis.

Are you ready to go out and buy a bunch of apples, or later take the kids to the apple farm? Later in the year, apples mature and are ready for harvest, so stock up. These miracle fruits are loaded with B vitamins, and fresh apple juice is one of the most delicious drinks. Try it as a tea with some honey for a heavenly beverage that cleanses the urinary tract, or simply eat them raw, peels and all.

They should be crushed and crunched well in the mouth to bring out their richest flavor and make their vitamins and other nutrients most accessible to the body.

A cousin of the apple, the humble pear, is also a fine breakfast food and a good body cleanser, and can treat many of the same ailments as

an apple. They are known for lowering blood pressure and can treat colitis.

Pineapple is a mild, natural digestive stimulant and a good gland regulator that all of us should eat more regularly. It contains papain, a valuable digestion aid, and is rich in chlorine, which aids in the digestion of proteins. Eat it to treat bronchitis, diphtheria, sore throat, goiter, high blood pressure and arthritis.

Anthony Scarano is not a doctor. He is an Evergreen Park resident, winemaker and certified naturopath. Suggestions in this space are his opinions based on years of independent study and personal experience.

Wine should be consumed in moderation. Overindulgence may be harmful to your health.

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 Reporter Newspaper does not attempt to correct errors made by that office.

Fannie Mac to Clarke James M, 10205 S Trumbull Ave, $140,500; Minski Charles C to Pratts Edwin, 2641 W 97th Pl, $120,000; 2952 W 95th St LLC to WU & Tran Real Estate LLC, 2958 W 95th St, $575,000; Wells Fargo Bk to EJ&R Investments LLC 4, 2748 W 94th St, $115,000; Wollenbert Donnaj Tr to Miller Hans Martin, 3140 W 99th St, Unit #3A, $73,000.

#4209, $47,000; Larsen Joy Tr to Blue Fin Homes LLC, 9316 54th Pl, $95,000; Chicago Title Land Trust Co Tr to Ashkar Feras, 9048 S Nashville Ave, $279,000; Orr Scott T to Lathus Adam J, 5252 W 88th St, $186,000; Banik Rafal to Budz Michael M, 9109 52nd St, $199,500; Roeder Jeanine Tr to Chabitch Elaine J Tr, 10820 Kilpatrick Ave, Unit #1SE, $43,000; Priestman Scott E to Mccarthy Carlton, 5501 Oak Center Dr, $275,000; Bogyo Jeffrey R to Kiman Victor A, 10424 Lamon Ave, $223,500; Tenn Joseph Extr to Moseley Joshua G, 9733 Mayfield Ave, $196,000; Seaway B&T Co to 5623 LLC, 5623 W 87th St, $60,000; Signore Thomas Albert Tr to Hussain Fares, 10312 51st Ct, $175,500; 9809 Menard Trust to Zepeda Teresa, 9809 Menard Ave, $167,000; Starwood Waypoint Trs LLC to Rosu Elisabeta, 9144 Tripp Ave, $155,000; Lynch Daniel Tr to Glacier Prop Grp LLC, 9142 Pulaski Rd, Unit #1W9142, $60,000; Godinez Ignacio to Marmol Juan, 4210 W 103rd St, $250,000.

Oak Lawn

Palos Hills

Chicago Ridge Brown Ashley A to Weis Jennifer L, 11018 Massasoit Ave, $186,500; Monica Commercial LLC to Rodarte Sandra, 10530 S Ridgeland Ave, Unit #1053011, $63,000; Murphy Thomas J Tr to Williams Anita P, 10624 S Mayfield Ave, $240,000.

Evergreen Park

Tsianas Susan to Kueltzo David, 5731 W 90th St, $298,000; Smat Thomas Tr to Delfino Maria Zarah, 4917 109th St, Unit #15201, $59,000; Shah Kareem Syed to Smith Danielle M, 10322 S Komensky Ave, Unit #10322C, $89,000; Mackowiak Michele N to Goshorn David P, 10441 S Circle Dr, Unit #G12C, $105,000; Marquette Bk Tr to Styrczula Marta, 6101 W 94th St, Unit #C7, $61,000; Grandview Cap LLC to Hurtado Gabriel, 9408 50th Ave, $159,000; Connelly Mary T Tr to Valdez Salvador, 9535 Southwest Hwy, Unit #13113, $78,000; Ellison Kristina to Chicago Title Land Trust Co, 9724 Karlov Ave, Unit

Wojnicz Boguslaw to Stec Lukasz J, 8 Cour Michele, $146,000; Snell Kevin P to Ali Imran, 8250 Mulberry Ct, Unit #6D, $126,000; Arns Inc to Olson Robert J, 10940 S Eastwood Dr, $176,000; Ruiz Eloy to Albasti Ishaq, 10202 S 81st Ct, $258,000; Kita Alina to Cruz Jorge, 11003 Stoney Creek Dr, Unit #33B, $146,000.

Worth B & KW Inc to Jarosz Honorata, 7433 W 108th Pl, $235,000; Bank New York Mellon to Shaban Aladdin, 11414 S Nashville Ave, $85,000; Thomas Rhys to Luckett Katie, 11606 S Neenah Ave, $190,000; Koczur Maria M to Marinez Ana Celia, 6809 W 115th Pl, $180,000; First Integrity Grp Inc to Juarez Mario, 7410 W 111th St, Unit #310, $35,000.

your needs can help re you a “doyou make appropriit-yourselfer”? ate moves for all your If you can take milestones. care of home repairs, • When you’re close lawn work and other to retirement. As you types of maintenance near retirement, you’ll by yourself, you’ll save have several issues to money and probably consider: About how gain satisfaction. But much income will you you will almost cerScott each year? When tainly need some help Johnson need should you start taking in other areas of your Social Security? How life – one of which much can you afford to withmay be investing. draw annually from your IRA In fact, you could benefit and 401(k)? A financial advisor from the services of a prohas the tools, training and exfessional financial advisor at perience to explore alternatives several points in your life: and suggest suitable moves for • When you’re starting out you. in your career. When you • When you’re retired. land your first “career-type” Even after you retire, you’ve job, you will have some finangot plenty to think about, in cial decisions to make: Should terms of financial moves. For I participate in my employer’s one thing, you need to ensure 401(k) or other retirement that your investment portfolio plan? (Hint: Yes!) If so, how much should I contribute? How provides you with both sufficient income for your desired can I juggle saving for retirelifestyle and adequate growth ment with paying off student potential to help you stay ahead loans? These are the types of questions you can answer with of inflation. What’s the correct balance of investments for your the help of a financial advisor. needs? Are there investments • When you’re saving for that can provide you with rising important goals. Whether income without exposing you to you’re saving for a down undue risk? Once you’re retired, payment on your first home, you just won’t get a lot of “door for your children’s college overs,” so getting the right help education, or for your own is important. comfortable retirement, you’ll If you’re a do-it-yourselfer, face many choices. A financial you may not get it right each advisor – someone with expeand every time. But you won’t rience in helping people work toward these goals – can assist pay much of a price (except, perhaps in embarrassment) if you in making the choices most appropriate for your indi- that chair you built collapses under a stack of newspapers. vidual situation.

• When you’re experiencing However, you also know when it’s time to call in a professiona personal “milestone.” Like al – and that’s whom you need everyone, you’ll go through when it comes to building many major life events. your financial future. So, get Some will be joyful, such as the assistance you need, when marriage and the arrival of you need it, from a financial children, while others may advisor. be unpleasant or sad, such as divorce or the death of a loved Scott Johnson, CFP, is a one. But virtually all these financial advisor with Edward events carry with them some Jones, 8146 W. 111th St., Palos type of financial component Hills, (708) 974-1965. Edward – establishing new investment Jones does not provide legal accounts, purchasing sufficient advice. This article was writinsurance, naming and changten by Edward Jones for use ing of beneficiaries, and so by your local Edward Jones on. A financial advisor who financial advisor. truly understands you and

Mercy Circle to host open house and tours of its retirement facility An open house and tours of Mercy Circle, a continuing care retirement facility, will be held from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 15 at the center, 3659 W. 99th St., Chicago.

A newly furnished assisted living model apartment will be unveiled at Mercy Circle during the open house. The open house provides an opportunity for prospective residents and their families to meet Mercy Circle staff members and learn about services the new retirement community can offer them. Refreshments will be served and complimentary parking is available by entering the lot from 99th Street.

“We are happy to showcase our new model residence at Mercy

Circle, perfect for anyone who is contemplating assisted living for themselves or a loved one,” said Frances Lachowicz, executive director at the senior living community. “We take so much pride in our person-centered services and amenities for residents of Mercy Circle. They become part of our unique, faith-based community.”

The not-for-profit Mercy Circle has a no entrance fee policy and a five-star CMS rating. Sponsored by the Sisters of Mercy West Midwest, it is the only faith-based retirement community in the area.

The senior living community provides a variety of dining options. For more information or to schedule a private appointment, call (773) 253-3600.

Neat Repeats seeking volunteers Volunteers are being sought for the new year at the Neat Repeats Resale stores in the southwest suburbs.

Residents who would like to meet new people and help make a difference can visit the Neat Repeats Resale stores at 7026 W. 111th St., Worth, and 9028 W.

159th St., Orland Park.

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

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

Mortgage Rates Around the Area First Midwest Bank (as of January 9) 30-year fi ed

RATES 4.125

APR 4.160

POINTS 0

15-year fi ed

3.375

3.430

0

30-year fi ed Jumbo

4.125

4.170

0

United Trust Bank (as of January 9) 30-year fi ed

RATES 4.060

APR 4.081

POINTS 0

15-year fi ed

3.375

3.411

0

10-year fi ed

3.250

3.303

0

Prospect Federal (as of January 9) 30-year fi ed

RATES 4.125

APR 4.171

POINTS .25

20-year fi ed

3.875

3.938

.25

15-year fi ed

3.375

3.438

.25

All rates subject to change daily. Equal opportunity lenders.

The Reporter

Thursday, January 12, 2017

SCHOOL NEWS

Trophy

Sensory

Issac would agree. He adores the Cubs’ mascot, Clark, according to his mother. However, Issac wasn’t the only star-struck patient.

Edward Mayerik, 21 months, was delighted to have his photo taken with the World Series trophy beside his longtime Cubs-loving family, which included his father, Nicholas Mayerik, and his grandfather, Donald Willig.

He is diagnosed with pulmonary atresia with MAPCA’s — a form of heart disease in which the pulmonary valve has not formed properly. However, he still continues to share his love for the team with his family, as together they watched the World Series games in the hospital, according to his grandfather.

“He would fall asleep during some of the games but he was a trooper and watched a lot of them with us,” Willig said. “And like a lot of old people watching the World Series, when they won, I cried like a baby.”

Sarah Bytnar, of Chicago, said the World Series is a memory her daughter, Naomi Bytnar, 7, will cherish forever.

“Being able to take a photo with the World Series trophy is an awesome memory that she will forever have to be able to look back on,” Sarah said.

Naomi suffered an AVM rupture in September. An AVM rupture occurs because of pressure and damage to blood vessel tissue. This results in blood leaking into the brain or surrounding tissues, and reduces blood flow to the brain.

“Things are not always easy. It has been a long road and will continue to be a long couple of years, but something like this is a wonderful memory for her to have,” Sarah said.

Lori Chesna, SWSRA executive director at The Helen Goy Center, recognized the Worth Park District for its efforts in constructing the Sensory Depot.

“Without their assistance, I don’t know how we could have accomplished the addition of this room to the center,’’ she said.

She also thanked Steve Werner, president of the Park District Board, and Brad Urban, a board member.

“They were here nearly every day, putting up wallboard, doing electrical work and painting.

Without them, the labor costs would have eaten up our budget for the Sensory Depot,’’ Chesna said. “We are very grateful for all they did.”

One prominent display at the event was a poster outlining a wish list for the Sensory Depot, reflecting a goal of $30,000 to be raised for equipment. Topping the list was a $15,000 Gesture Tek Cube, an interactive projection on the floor, which simulates various actions such as walking through fall leaves, offering the participant the sensory experience of hearing the crunch of the leaves. Other items on the list included rotating rainfall panels and a learning chair (which vibrates to the beat of music).

For anyone wishing to donate toward the $30,000 goal, checks are payable to SWSRA, 12521 S. Kostner, Alsip, IL 60803 or, GoFundMe. com/2c5wm44.

SWSRA is a special recreation agency comprised of the Alsip Park District, Blue Island Park District, Village of Merrionette Park, Midlothian Park District, Palos Heights Recreation Department, Posen Park District, and Worth Park District. SWSRA was formed in 1981 to provide year-round quality recreation programs and services for individuals with disabilities or special needs. SWSRA programs are designed to increase independence and enhance the quality of life for each individual.

Continued from Page 1

Continued from Page 1

Buddhist monk visits Oak Lawn High School In order to build background knowledge for the novel “Siddhartha,” a 1922 novel by Herman Hesse about spiritual self-discovery, Oak Lawn Community High School English teacher Dan Doyle invited Buddhist monk Gen Dorje to teach his English 3 honors classes about Buddhist meditation.

Gen spoke to classes recently in the Media Center.

Faculty and staff were also invited. Gen spoke about the practicality of Buddhism, led the group through a meditation, and closed with questions and answers.

“I feel more connected now with Siddhartha,”said student Emily March. “I understand why he is going on this journey for total inner peace. Meditation made me feel so relaxed and peaceful ... it is a good tool, especially in times of anxiety or fear.”

Submitted photo Diana Roman added, “He was very true and honest about Buddhist monk Gen Dorje visited the Oak Lawn Community himself and I was able to appreciate the Buddhist religion.”

High School’s English 3 honors classes.

Illinois State Scholars selected at Queen of Peace Six students from the Class of 2017 at Queen of Peace High School in Burbank have been recognized as Illinois State Scholars.

Queen of Peace seniors who have been named Illinois State Scholars for 2016-17 are Kylie Beringer, Kathryn Cerven, Kelly Fitzgerald, Natlie Jurcik, Sharon Neiza and Kara Shimko.

Illinois State Scholars represent approximately the top 10 percent of high school seniors from 765 high schools across the state. Illinois State Scholars possess strong academic potential and are chosen based on a combination of exemplary ACT or SAT test scores and sixth semester class rank.

TCF NATIONAL BANK Plaintiff, -v.JAMES W. COZZIE A/K/A JAMES COZZIE, CATHERINE M. COZZIE A/K/A CATHERINE COZZIE, CAPITAL ONE BANK (USA), N.A., LHR INC., STATE OF ILLINOIS, DEPARTMENT OF REVENUE, MB FINANCIAL BANK, N.A., SUCCESSOR TO CORUS BANK, N.A., UNKNOWN OWNERS AND NON-RECORD CLAIMANTS Defendants 14 CH 15018 8852 W. 99TH 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 November 16, 2016, an agent for The Judicial Sales Corporation, will at 10:30 AM on February 17, 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: THE WEST 1/2 OF LOT 50 IN FRANK DE LUGACH’S RUTH ACRES SUBDIVISION, A SUBDIVISION OF THE SOUTH 1/2 OF THE SOUTH EAST 1/4 OF THE NORTHEAST 1/4 OF SECTION 10 AND THE SOUTH 1/2 OF THE SOUTHWEST 1/4 OF THE NORTHWEST 1/4 OF SECTION 11, TOWNSHIP 37 NORTH, RANGE 12, EAST OF THE THIRD PRINCIPAL MERIDIAN, IN COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS. Commonly known as 8852 W. 99TH STREET, Palos Hills, IL 60465 Property Index No. 23-10-205-024-0000.

The real estate is improved with a single family residence.

The judgment amount was $285,573.71.

Sale terms: 25% down of the highest bid by certified funds at the close of the sale payable to The Judicial Sales Corporation. No third party checks will be accepted. The balance, including the Judicial sale fee for Abandoned Residential Property Municipality Relief Fund, which is calculated on residential real estate at the rate of $1 for each $1,000 or fraction thereof of the amount paid by the purchaser not to exceed $300, in certified funds/or wire transfer, is due within twenty-four (24) hours. No fee shall be paid by the mortgagee acquiring the residential real estate pursuant to its credit bid at the sale or by any mortgagee, judgment creditor, or other lienor acquiring the residential real estate whose rights in and to the residential real estate arose prior to the sale. The subject property is subject to general real estate taxes, special assessments, or special taxes levied against said real estate and is offered for sale without any representation as to quality or quantity of title and without recourse to Plaintiff and in AS IS condition. The sale is further subject to confirmation by the court.

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

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

If this property is a condominium unit, the purchaser of the unit at the foreclosure sale, other than a mortgagee, shall pay the assessments and the legal fees required by The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/9(g)(1) and (g) (4). If this property is 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 DAVID T. COHEN, DAVID T. COHEN & ASSOCIATES, 10729 WEST 159TH STREET, ORLAND PARK, IL 60467, (708) 460-7711 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.

DAVID T. COHEN & ASSOCIATES 10729 WEST 159TH STREET ORLAND PARK, IL 60467 (708) 460-7711 Attorney Code. 25602 Case Number: 14 CH 15018 TJSC#: 36-13388 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.

Submitted photo

Six Queen of Peace High School students have been selected as Illinois State Scholars for 2017. The students are (from left) Kylie Beringer, Kathryn Cerven, Kelly Fitzgerald, Natlie Jurcik, Sharon Neiza and Kara Shimko.

“I applaud all of the state scholars for their hard work and outstanding

academic performance,” said Eric Zarnikow, ISAC executive director.

LIBRARY HAPPENINGS

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

9

CHICAGO RIDGE Coloring for adults Color therapy for adults will be held from 7 to 8 p.m. today (Thursday, Jan. 12) at the Chicago Ridge Library, 10400 S. Oxford.

Adults can come to the session and draw for relaxation. More information can be obtained by calling the library, (708) 423-7753.

‘The Innocents’ is this week’s Movie Matinee

The foreign film “The Innocents” will be shown from 10 a.m. to noon Monday, Jan 16 at the Chicago Ridge Library.

The movie is about 1945 Poland, where a young French Red Cross doctor is sent to assist the survivors of the German camps and discovers several nuns in advanced stages of pregnancy during a visit to a nearby convent.

Admission is free. More information can be obtained by calling the library, (708) 423-7753,

Preschool, Kindergarten Story Time Preschool and Kindergarten Story Time will be held from 6:30

LEGAL NOTICE F16110279 NSTR IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT, CHANCERY DIVISION Nationstar Mortgage LLC Plaintiff, vs.

James R. Magnuson aka James Magnuson, Individually and as Trustee of the James R. Magnuson Revocable Trust dated March 28, 2007; Unknown Beneficiaries under the James R. Magnuson Revocable Trust dated March 28, 2007; TCF National Bank; Unknown Owners and Non-Record Claimants Defendants.

CASE NO. 16 CH 16335 10037 Alice Court Oak Lawn, Illinois 60453 Walker Calendar 57 NOTICE FOR PUBLICATION The requisite affidavit for publication having been filed, notice is hereby given you, Unknown Beneficiaries under the James R. Magnuson Revocable Trust dated March 28, 2007, and UNKNOWN OWNERS and NON-RECORD CLAIMANTS, defendants in the above entitled cause, that suit has been commenced against you and other defendants in the Circuit Court for the Judicial Circuit by said plaintiff praying for the foreclosure of a certain mortgage conveying the premises described as follows, to wit: LOT 53 IN SECOND ADDITION TO C.A. PERSON’S SUBDIVISION, BEING A PART OF THE EAST THREE QUARTERS OF THE SOUTH WEST QUARTER OF SECTION 9, TOWNSHIP 37 NORTH, RANGE 13 EAST OF THE THIRD PRINCIPAL MERIDIAN IN COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS. P.I.N.: 24-09-320-035-0000 Said property is commonly known as 10037 Alice Court, Oak Lawn, Illinois 60453, and which said mortgage(s) was/were made by James R. Magnuson, as Trustee of the James R. Magnuson Revocable Trust dated March 28, 2007 and recorded in the Office of the Recorder of Deeds as Document Number 0722856153 and for other relief; that Summons was duly issued out of the above Court against you as provided by law and that said suit is now pending.

NOW THEREFORE, unless you, the said above named defendants, file your answer to the complaint in the said suit or otherwise make your appearance therein, in the Office of the Clerk of the Court at Cook County on or before FEBRUARY 13, 2017 a default may be taken against you at any time after that date and a Judgment entered in accordance with the prayer of said complaint.

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

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

to 7:15 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 18 at the Chicago Ridge Library. The program is for children ages 3 to 5. They should be accompanied by a caregiver. More information can be obtained by calling the library, (708) 423-7753.

EVERGREEN PARK Kindergarten Challenge The 1000 Books Before Kindergarten Challenge will be held at 9 a.m. Thursday, Jan. 19 at the Evergreen Park Library, 9400 S. Troy.

The free reading program is for toddlers through preschool.

The program encourages caregivers to read 1,000 books with their child before he or she enters kindergarten. Any child who has not entered kindergarten can be signed up.

More information can be obtained by calling the library, (708) 422-8522 or visit the library.

OAK LAWN Dave Rudolff’s Beach Party Patrons can attend a musical cruise with Dave Rudolff’s Beach Party to be held at 2 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 15 at the Oak Lawn Library.

The sounds of reggae, Caribbean, Latin and calypso can be heard from Rudolff, a Grammynominated, Gold Record artist.

The Sunday with Friends Concerts are sponsored by the Friends of the Oak Lawn Library. More information can be obtained by calling (708) 422-4990 or visit wwwolpl.org.

Guests can learn how to clear clutter Guests will be given a lesson in how to clear up clutter at 7 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 19 at the Oak Lawn Library. Colleen Klimczak, certified professional organizer (CPO), will teach patrons on how to maximize space and eliminate clutter. More information can be obtained by calling (708) 4224990 or visit www.olpl.org.

Drawing classes for kids will be offered at library Drawing classes for children

will be held this month at the Oak Lawn Library.

The drawing classes will be conducted by art teacher Christine Thornton. “Let’s Draw Robots” will be held for ages 5 to 7. This is a step-by-step process for participants to invent their own collage robot with room for creativity from 11 a.m. to noon Saturday, Jan. 21.

“How to Draw Minecraft Characters,” for ages 6 to 9, will be held from 1 to 2 p.m., while ages 10 to 14 will meet from 2:30 to 4 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 21. Registration has begun for both programs.

More information can be obtained by calling (708) 422-4990 or visit www.olpl.org.

Children can read and win prizes “Once Upon a Snowy Day” will be presented on Tuesdays through Jan. 31 through the Youth Services Reading Program at the Oak Lawn Library.

The program is open to babies, toddlers and children up to age 14, along with adult guardians.

Depending on the ages of the children, they can read books, attend programs and complete activities to fill in the bingo squares and win prizes.

Adults and participants can drop by the Youth Services Department to pick up a bingo card or to receive some personalized reading recommendations. More information can be obtained by calling (708) 422-4990 or visit www.olpl.org.

Library sponsors Souper Bowl Food Drive The third annual Souper Bowl Food Drive will be held through the Super Bowl on Sunday, Feb. 5 at the Oak Lawn Library.

The library staff and volunteers will team up to stop hunger and help local pantries stock their shelves after the holidays. Residents are welcome to join in with the goal of collecting at least 500 donated items.

A bin will be placed in the library lobby near a large poster that will track the progress of the drive. All donated items will be delivered to local pantries in February. Over the past

LEGAL NOTICE

two years, nearly 1,000 donated items have been distributed to three local food pantries. For more information about this, call (708) 422-4990 or visit www.olpl.org.

The event is sponsored by the Oak Lawn Community Partnership. For more information, call (708) 422-4990 or visit www. olpl.org.

Conversation circle will be provided for new English speakers

Download magazines with Zinio

A conservation circle for new English speakers will take place from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Wednesdays through May 24 at the Oak Lawn Library.

Participants and trained volunteers will work together in large and small groups. The winterspring session will be held in the Quiet Study Room on the second floor. Beginning, intermediate and advanced English learners are welcome (students must have some English training).

The fall 2017 session will start up again in September. More information will be provided in upcoming newsletters. More information can be obtained by calling Mary Williams, the head of the adult and young adult services department, at (708) 422-4990, or visit www.olpl.org.

Accepting reading material donations Patrons can donate “gently used” books, magazines, CDs and videos to the Friends of the Oak Lawn Library Outgoing Book Sale at the Oak Lawn Library.

Due to space limitations, the Friends will not accept Readers Digest Condensed Books, encyclopedias and older text books.

The donation drop-off area is near the library’s Cook Avenue entrance. Interested parties may fill out a short form at the Customer Service desk to receive a tax letter by mail that acknowledges their donation.

The Friends Ongoing Book Sale provides a variety of books, magazines and other forms of media at bargain prices. Hardcover books cost 50 cents each, paperbacks are 25 cents and magazines cost 10 cents each. Audio visual items are priced as indicated. Funds collected from the book sale support library programming and purchases that are beyond their regular budget.

A session will be offered on an overview of Zinio and how to download magazines at 11 a.m.

Saturday, Jan. 14 at the Oak Lawn Library. Patrons are asked to bring their own tablets or laptops. More information about this program can be obtained by calling (708) 422-4990 or visit www.olpl.org.

Cineversary Film Discussion Series The Cineversary Film Discussion will be held in January at the Oak Lawn Library.

The group conversation will be led by Erik J. Martin, creator and moderator of CineVerse, the Oak Lawn Park District’s weekly film discussion group. The first movie to be presented and discussed will be the 1992 film “Reservoir Dogs” at 1 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 14 at the library. After a simple jewelry heist goes terribly wrong, the surviving criminals begin to suspect that one of them is a police informant. The movie stars Harvey Keitel and Tim Roth. The film is rated R and runs 99 minutes.

The 1977 film “Annie Hall” will be presented at 1 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 18, marking the 40th anniversary of the movie. The film is about a neurotic New York comedian Alvy Singer, who falls in love with the ditzy Annie Hall. The movie stars Woody Allen and Diane Keaton. The movie is rated PG and runs 93 minutes.

For more information about this and other adult programs, call (708) 422-4990 or visit www. olpl.org.

PALOS HILLS Youth winter reading program is offered

A mini heath fair will be held from 10 to 11:30 a.m. Wednesday, Jan. 11 at the Oak Lawn Library.

Free blood pressure screenings, power of attorney assistance, hearing tests (limit of 15), glaucoma tests, knee screenings (limit of eight) and physical therapy screenings will be offered.

Screenings are subject to change.

The youth winter reading program will be offered beginning Monday Jan. 16 at the Green Hills Library, 8611 W. 103rd St., Palos Hills.

The sessions are for children in pre-kindergarten through senior year in high school. Kids can sign up for the winter reading program, and log their readings to earn tickets to win one of the grand prizes. Weekly prizes will be awarded Registration will take place at the Youth Services Desk or online at greenhillslibrary.org.

SUDOKU Answers

CROSSWORD Answers

Mini health fair

10 The Reporter

SCHOOL NEWS

Thursday, January 12, 2017

Sixty-one Marist seniors selected as Illinois State Scholars The Illinois Student Assistance Commission recently named 61 Marist High School seniors Illinois State Scholars.

This brings the total of Illinois State Scholars from Marist to 402 over the past six years.

Illinois State Scholars represent about the top 10 percent of high school seniors, hailing from 765 high schools across the state. Selection is based on SAT, ACT or Prairie State Achievement Exam scores, and/or class rank at the end of the junior year. High school guidance counselors work with ISAC to determine the scholars.

The combination of exemplary college entrance examination scores and a record of high school achievement indicate an especially high potential for success in college. To be honored as a State Scholar in Illinois is an outstanding accomplishment that will be a highlight of the recipient’s academic record.

“We are so proud of our Illinois State Scholars,” said Marist Principal Larry

Submitted photo

The Illinois Student Assistance Commission selected 61 seniors from Marist High School in Chicago as Illinois State Scholars.

Tucker, Class of ’79. “This is a powerful reflection of the caliber of students at our school, as well as the strong curriculum and preparation our teachers provide to help students excel.”

The Marist students earning State Scholars honors are Maria Arreola, Evan Bal, Antonio Bear, Moira Blake, Caelah Borkovec, Hannah Bounardj,

Emma Brennan, Matt Brannigan, Shane Brannigan, Paul Castaldo, Alexandra Cipriani, Matthew Conklin, Melissa DeGrado, Christopher Distefano, Matthew Finn, Emmett Gainer, Paige Gapski, Molly Gausselin, Nora Gilliam, Jack Golden, Robert Hawkinson, Kiera Hilliard, Franciso Jotautus, Samuel Kamper,

Edward Kawczynski, Claire Kelly, Dana Kelly, Kevin Kelly, Kristina Kolodziej and Alexis Kolp.

The students also include Mackenzie Lim, Robert Krokos, Victoria Krummick, Shannon Landers, Maryclare Leonard, Bryson Lewis, Michael Mallon, Gabriella Marino, Taylor McAlilly, Zachary Meeker, Allison Monterastelli,

Nicholas Olivieri, Erin Olsen, Jack O’Neill, Hope Orsi, Mychaela Paetow, Jeffrey Reidy, Grace Rodriguez, Nathan Stinites, Hannah Tapling, Sarah Thompson, Trae Thompson, Elizabeth Travnik, Rebecca Valek, Monica Viz, Sarah Ward, Ryan Wollenberg, Jillian Zwierz, Joseph Bennett, Katherine Maloney and Bridget Ryan.

34 OLCHS students are Illinois State Scholars

Lidia Techane, of the National Honor Society from Richards High School, helps a student at Childs School in Robbins make a craft during Deja Chaney, of the National Honor Society from the annual Miracle Tree event.

Richards, makes crafts with a student at Childs School.

Submitted photos

National Honor Society student Shannon Meegan, from Richards High School, helps children make crafts during the holiday party at Childs School in Robbins.

Richards National Honor Society students take part in Miracle Tree event After Thanksgiving, students in the National Honor Society at Richards High School in Oak Lawn turn their thoughts to Childs School in Robbins.

Service comprises a huge element of belonging to NHS, but the holiday party at Childs School becomes its own reward. No one wants to miss it, according to school of-

ficials.

Richards staff members buy gifts for the K-3 students at Childs School.

NHS students then wrap the gifts and deliver them on the day of the holiday party (parents of Childs students pick up the gifts secretly for their children to open at Christmas.)

NHS students at Richards have hosted the holiday festivities at Childs

School for more than 25 years. This year, Principal Regina Redd, new to Childs School, experienced this event for the first time.

“They’re really excited. We haven’t told them exactly what you’re going to do with them, but we did tell them a bunch of big students from high school are coming to share their afternoon with you,” she said, drawing laughter

from the Richards students.

Redd expressed appreciation for their efforts.

“You’re doing so much for our community. I have to applaud you and your teachers,” she said.

The NHS students then spread out to the classrooms, working in teams of two and three to lead children through an ornament-making project.

Dist. 218 earns state’s highest finance rating for 14th straight year

OLCHS students explore lessons from atomic bomb Lessons from the atomic bomb are being explored in classes at Oak Lawn Community High School.

U.S. history teachers Kristin Kuchyt and Phil McGee designed an extended atomic bomb lesson as part of their war unit in U.S. history. To begin, students created pictures of someone or something that is dear to them. They edited and mounted these pictures on paper. The classes were then split between morning classes and afternoon classes.

The morning classes were designated as the “destroyers” who ripped and marred the pictures, while the afternoon classes participated in a forgiveness lesson. The students then watched a teacher-created iMovie depicting recent historical events that showed destruction and loss due to war, terrorism, and the refugee crisis.

The video ended with Oak Lawn Community High School student Fatima Akili describing her experiences in Syria and what motivates her to excel.

Following the video, students entered the Spartan Art gallery to view their pictures. No students knew if their picture was ripped and marred or if their picture was in one piece. Using the app RECAP, students reflected on this experience. How did you feel destroying someone or something that a person loved? Or, how did you feel knowing that someone or something you loved is gone?

The next step required students to write letters of forgiveness to each other. A reflection of the project also prepared students for the final stage: Skyped interviews. Students first watched a Skyped

Thirty-four students from the Class of 2017 at Oak Lawn Community High School have been recognized as Illinois State Scholars.

The Oak Lawn Community High School Illinois State Scholars for 2016-17 are Fatima Akili, Megan Baker, Adam Baniewicz, Aidan Blake, Cory Brzozowski, Dominica Cipriani, Cody Figus, Annabelle Fritz, Elizabeth Gonzalez, Emily Hartman, Jozef Hyrczyk, Tasneem Jaber, Anna Jasinska, Ryan Kielar-McNamara, Jackson Kierna, Camryn Landingham, Kathryn Lindsay, Akram Mahdi, Andrew Mazurek, Emma Minelli, Salam Mulhem, Natalia Rafacz, Samantha Reichert, Erica Ruiz, Jade Ryerson, Mohammad Salameh, Yesenia Saldivar, Jessica Sciaky, Sergio Serna, Gina Snyder, Olivia Stelter, Thomas Stritch, Amelia Unger and Kelly Witkus.

The Illinois Student Assistance Commission is the state agency that recognizes the top Illinois high school students annually with this distinction. Illinois State Scholars represent about the top 10 percent of high school seniors from 652 high schools across the state. Selection is based on a combination of exemplary ACT or SAT test scores and sixth semester class rank.

Submitted photo

Oak Lawn Community High School students (from left) Ansam Abdeljaber and Rizik Hasanieh view artwork that was destroyed as part of a forgiveness lesson in their U.S. History class.

interview with a WWII veteran, Art Leach, who flew missions over Japan and the Pacific islands.

Students then watched an interview with an atomic bomb survivor, Yoshiko Kajimoto.

“Locating veterans of WWII and survivors of the atomic bomb is quickly becoming a daunting task,” said Kuchyt. “We wanted our students to have

the experience to speak with people from the era.

We also wanted our students to feel an emotional connection and empathy with those who fought in the war or were victims of the war.”

U.S. history student Antonia Taylor reflected, “It’s hard to forgive. But sometimes people have to do things that they don’t want to.”

The Illinois State Board of Education has awarded District 218 the highest possible fiscal rating for the 14th consecutive year.

District 218 includes Richards High School in Oak Lawn and Shepard High School in Palos Heights.

District 218 in 2016 again earned “financial recognition.” The state board of education categorizes school districts annually with the following ratings: Financial Watch, Financial Early Warning, Financial Review, and Financial Recognition.

“The district received an unqualified opinion for its audited financial statements. The district also received unqualified opinions related to compliance and internal controls over financial reporting and each major program,” said Ilsa Richardella, business manager.

The term “unqualified” means that the audit report stands as presented by the auditing firm without any negative exceptions or connotations.

The auditing firm RSM LLC conducted the audit of District 218.

School districts earn their ratings based on five criteria, including fund balance-to-revenue ratio; expenditures to revenues ratio; days’ cash on hand; percent of short-term borrowing available; and, percent of long-term debt remaining.

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SPORTS The Regional News • The Reporter

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

Thursday, 12,2015 2017 Thursday,January March 5,

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

MARIST 56, MOTHER MCAULEY 39

RedHawks steal the show

were bounced in the first round

by Proviso East, 63-58.

Marist had to make that noise in the consolation round and started its current streak by winning three games en route to the consolation title and then opened the 2017 portion of the schedule with a 65-42 triumph over New Trier in the Fremd Shootout before Monday night’s game with the Mighty Macs.

“After that Proviso game, we had a meeting,” Ruzivich said.

“We said, ‘This is it — no more losses.’ We came out and won the next game and we’ve been winning ever since.”

The schedule doesn’t get much easier for Marist as it faces Stevenson at the Subway Shootout at Willowbrook High School on Saturday, and looming on Jan. 20 is a road game at Benet Academy, which has won backto-back Class 4A state titles the past two seasons.

Meanwhile, McAuley (12-6) is in an interesting phase of its development. The team is filled with underclassmen with a high ceiling for the next couple of years. There are just three seniors to go with six juniors and four sophomores on this year’s squad, and some of the younger players went through the wars of a 17-14 season in 2015-16.

Last season, the team went to Marist and took a 64-41 beating at the hands of the RedHawks in a game that wasn’t even that close. Marist had a 31-point advantage at one point before both squads emptied their benches and McAuley was able to eat into that deficit a little bit.

By Jeff Vorva Sports Editor

Photo by Jeff Vorva

Malik Parker of Chicago Christian (shown passing in a game earlier this season) has learned a few things about basketball from his cousin, Jabari Parker of the Milwaukee Bucks.

Malik Parker 27 Jabari Parker 27 Cousins have a big day/night at the United Center

By Frank Gogola Correspondent

Photo courtesy of Michael Parker

In 2013, Simeon senior Jabari Parker, left, posed with cousin Malik Parker at Malik’s eighth-grade graduation. On New Year’s Eve, Malik scored 27 points for Chicago Christian against Timothy Christian at the United Center in the day and Jabari scored 27 for the Milwaukee Bucks against the Bulls at night.

New Year’s Eve may as well have been called Parker Family Basketball Day on Chicago’s West Side.

Chicago Christian senior Malik Parker and his cousin, Milwaukee Bucks power forward Jabari Parker, scored 27 points apiece to lead their respective teams to victories on Dec. 31 at the United Center.

It was the first time Malik saw Jabari play live in an NBA game, although he’s had his share of seeing Jabari — who is four years older — play up close and personal when he was younger.

Playing on a big stage like the United Center, the home of the Chicago Bulls, has become the norm for 21-year-old Jabari. Malik got a taste of that atmosphere for just the second time when the Knights beat Timothy Christian, 68-42, in a Metro Suburban East game.

He vaguely remembered playing on lowered rims at the United Center when he was 7 and on a junior NBA team.

“It definitely had more meaning now because I’m older,” Malik said. “This

Brittany Collins had 18 points and a career-high 17 rebounds against the No. 1 team in the nation but St. Xavier fell to the University of St. Francis, 8070, Saturday.

Photo courtesy of St. Xavier Universitiy

Your Bank Dropping Its Standards?

was a conference game. I know it meant a lot to our teammates and coaches to come out and get a win. It was much more memorable now than then.”

The biggest difference from a regular high school game for the 6-foot hybrid guard was the larger court size, which allowed Chicago Christian to push the ball in transition.

Malik scored 27 points on 11-of-16 shooting. Jabari scored 27 of his own points on 10-of-15 shooting as the Bucks beat the Bulls, 116-96, that night.

It was the first time Malik got to see Jabari, a 6-foot-8 power forward, play live since the latter’s playing days at Simeon High School, where he won four state titles. Malik never saw Jabari play in person while the latter was at Duke, and he’d been too busy with his own games to catch one of Jabari’s pro games in person.

“It was really cool,” Malik said of seeing a family member play in an NBA game. “He’s more like a family-type guy. He really doesn’t like people treating him like he’s famous or anything. It See PARKERS, Page 4

Photo by Jeff Vorva

Marist’s Ally Corcoran (left) collides with Mother McAuley’s Hannah Swiatek during Monday night’s neighborhood battle.

Hallberg: ‘We panicked a bit’

By Phil Arvia Correspondent

Sure, St. Francis walked into the Shannon Center on Saturday as the top-ranked NAIA Division II women’s basketball team in the country, but Fighting Saints coach Samantha Quigley knows the Shannon Center isn’t your typical gym.

And its residents, St. Xavier’s Cougars, do not comprise your typical team. Most days, anyway.

This time, however, the Cougars, despite an unbeaten record to match USF’s and a No. 3 ranking, melted like everybody else has this season against the Saints, falling 80-70 in a Chicagoland Collegiate Athletic Conference crossover matchup.

“We talk a lot about their tradition, how they’ve ruled the CCAC,” Quigley said. “Being

No. 1, you’ve got a target on your back. Still, to come into a place like this, the Cougar den, you know you’re going to take their best shot.

“I told the girls before the game, ‘I think it’s going to be whoever shoots better.’”

In a blistering first quarter, that was St. Francis (16-0, 9-0). And as far as SXU coach Bob Hallberg was concerned, that was all she wrote.

While the Saints shot 10-of-16 (63 percent) from the floor in taking a 28-17 lead through 10 minutes, St. Xavier (16-1, 8-1) went 7-of-15 (47 percent). Then the Cougars followed that up with a 2-for-14 second quarter and went to the locker room trailing 49-26.

“When you lose, everyone wants to take the stat sheet and analyze it 10 different ways,” Hallberg said. “This is the first time all year long I saw we panicked a bit.

“When you coach a team, you know how that

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team is supposed to look. For the first five, six, seven minutes of the game, I didn’t recognize my players. For the first time all year I saw a little fear in my players — that comes from winning every game by 20 points.”

Indeed, until St. Francis, the Cougars hadn’t so much as trailed at the end of any quarter this season. They’d won their first 16 games by an average of 31 points, including three wins over ranked opponents by at least 18 points each.

But the same Cougars who made 41 percent of their 3-pointers over their first 16 games went just 2-for-13 from beyond the arc over the first three quarters Saturday. Meanwhile, the Saints’ Kamari Jordan hit her first four 3-pointers, all in the first quarter, en route to matching teammate Charnelle Reed’s game-high 20 points.

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The way Marist’s Julia Ruzevich sees it, the rivalry game against Mother McAuley has the entire South Side buzzing.

“This is the date I always look forward to,” she said. “There is always a full house and everyone from the South Side comes down to watch this game. It’s an exciting atmosphere.’’

The Quincy-bound senior scored 20 points in her final regular-season game against the Mighty Macs in Marist’s 56-39 victory Monday night. An estimated crowd of 1,200 attended the non-conference neighborhood battle at McAuley.

The RedHawks (17-3 with a five-game winning streak) outscored the Macs 29-16 in the second and third quarters to keep a comfortable lead in the fourth. Claire Austin added 12 points for the winners. Junior Tara O’Malley had 12 for McAuley.

Marist opened the season with 12 straight victories before suffering a couple of setbacks down south at the inaugural Queen of the Commonwealth Tournament at Bullitt East High School in Washington, Ky. After suffering a 58-57 setback to Male High School (the fifth-ranked team in the state) on a buzzer-beater on Dec. 21, the RedHawks lost another close shave to Campbell County the next day, 63-59.

They came back home hoping to make some noise in the powerful Montini Tournament but

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2

Section 2 January 12, 2017

The Regional News - The Reporter

FOCUS ON THE CHICAGO FIRE

FOCUS ON COMMUNITY SPORTS

Fire acquires goalie, re-signs forward Solignac

More than 600 are on board for half marathon

By Jeff Vorva

The early returns for entries in the 10th Southwest Half Marathon are about down the middle from the highs and lows of the past two races.

Race officials announced Friday that 628 people entered the May 7, Palos Heights event already — 478 for the half marathon and 150 for the 10K race.

That’s a huge uptick from last year at this time, when the race drew 375 early runners due to the uncertainty of a sponsor. Palos Health and CNB Bank stepped up and took over last year’s race and this year’s race, so organizers were able to get the word out early.

But the numbers are still down from early January 2015, when 922 athletes signed up.

Over the years, the event has drawn as low as 900 runners to as many as 2,100.

In 2016, 934 runners finished the two races.

Sports Editor

The wheeling and dealing continues for the Chicago Fire as it shapes up its roster for 2017.

General Manager Nelson Rodriguez made two major transactions in three days. He locked down forward Luis Solignac to a two-year deal with a club option for a third year on Thursday and signed goalie Jorge Rodrigo Bava as a Discovery Player on Saturday.

The Uruguayan goalkeeper signed a one-year deal with club options for 2018 and 2019. Bava will be added to the Fire’s roster pending receipt of his ITC and P1 Visa.

The Fire was in the market for a goalie after veteran Sean Johnson was traded to expansion club Atlanta and then shipped to the New York City Soccer Club in December.

“Bava is technically clean, comfortable off his line and a good organizer of the defense,” Rodríguez said. “His skill set is complementary to that of (Fire goalie) Matt Lampson and we expect him to compete for playing time.”

Bava joins the Fire after appearing in 21 matches for Colombian Primera A side Atlético Bucaramanga in 2016.

The 35-year-old appeared in one match for the Uruguayan Under-23 side during the 2004 Olympic Qualifying campaign.

By Jeff Vorva Sports Editor

Solignac inked a two-year deal with a club option for a third year.

“Retaining Luis’ services as he enters his prime years as a footballer is an important addition for the club as we continue to build our roster for the 2017 season,” Rodríguez said. “His pace, combination play, and overall work rate are a very good fit for us. We expect Luis to continue to grow as a player and become an important contributor.”

Solignac, 25, scored two goals in 13 games for the Fire after arriving from Colorado on Aug. 3 in a trade for General Allocation Money. He had five goals and four assists in all matches last season between his time with the Fire and Rapids.

In 2015 Solignac returned home and scored two goals in 10 appearances for Nueva Chicago before making his move to MLS.

Youth is served Organizers for the half marathon are introducing a youth race event to be run at 10:30 a.m. on May 7.

It will be a non-competitive race of short distances for kids ages 2-4, 5-7 and 8-10.

“The coolest part of it is that it will be free,” race co-director Jeff Prestinario said. “It’s just to get the kids and the people out there. We hope to bring more of the community out. It will make this more of a family event.’’

Medals will be given out to the participants.

Kickoff Luncheon set The Chicago Fire Foundation will hold its 19th Annual Season Kickoff Luncheon, presented by Magellan Corporation, at 11 a.m.

Feb. 27 at the Hyatt Regency Chicago, 151 E. Wacker Drive.

The luncheon offers Fire supporters an opportunity to meet the 2017 roster prior to the season opener against Columbus Crew SC on March 4 at MAPFRE Stadium. Proceeds from the event will benefit the Chicago Fire Foundation.

Luis Solignac inked a two-year deal with the Chicago Fire.

The event will feature a reception, lunch and an extensive silent auction, also available online, that will allow attendees and fans at home to bid on autographed Fire gear, additional sports memorabilia, gift certificates and much more.

In 2016, the Season Kickoff Luncheon raised more than $100,000

Photo by Jeff Vorva

benefiting the Chicago Fire Foundation’s soccer and education programs for underprivileged Chicagoland youth.

Tickets are available by calling 708-496-6657. Individual tickets are $90, with full tables beginning at $850. Prices will increase on Feb. 13.

Perfect pitch: Toyota Park named best soccer field in U.S. Correspondent

Sports Editor

Supplied photo

Toyota Park was named the best soccer field in the country by the Sports Turf Managers Association.

en, and we have high school teams that play here. Rugby, too,” White said.

Football, he said, is more damaging to a natural grass field, but soccer can do its share of wear and tear.

“It depends on the weather. There can be big divots, cuts, ruts, holes. We have to get it smoothed out. We do that by hand a lot, filling up holes and getting set for another game. We want the field to be as smooth as possible,” he said.

Weather “is always an issue,” White said.

“I remember in April we had an inch of snow fall during the game. You turn the heat on to keep it melting. That does help melt the ice and snow, but we were out there shoveling,” White said.

Yes, a little-known secret of Toyota Park is the heating elements beneath the field to help prevent it from freezing over.

Managing a large natural grass field involves “a lot of tedious work,” White said.

He said he tries to be “pretty gentle” with the grass. But said there are challenges like growing grass in shaded areas.

“There’s not full sun all the time out there,

and grass likes to have sun,” he said of areas shaded by the stadium’s stands and roof.

Nonetheless, White doesn’t mind the long hours and working pretty much every day.

“It’s fun. It’s a blast. I spent 35 years working on a golf course and I wanted a change,” said White, who resides in Elmwood Park.

The honor is still sinking in.

“It really is a nice reward for all the hard work he and I do. It’s nice to be recognized for it at the end of the year. Realistically, there are only 20 of us at this level in the whole country,” White said.

According to a news release from the Sports Turf Managers Association, a panel of 11 judges independently scored entries based on playability, appearance of surfaces, utilization and innovative solutions, and effective use of budget and implementation of a comprehensive agronomic program.

The winning fields will be featured in a 2017 issue of Sports Turf Magazine. The awards will be presented at the 28th annual STMA Conference & Exhibition planned for Jan. 24-27 in Orlando.

Boys bowling leads off winter postseason lineup Sports Editor

The first winter sports postseason events begin Saturday as the Illinois High School Association hosts 16 regionals across that state.

A majority of the local bowlers will be throwing strikes and spares at the Brooks Regional at Skyway Bowl in Chicago. Brother Rice, Marist, Evergreen Park, Oak Lawn, Richards, Chicago Christian, Shepard and Stagg will try to qualify for the Plainfield North Sectional on Jan. 21.

Sandburg, which finished sixth in the state last year, is at the Bremen Regional at Centennial Lanes in Tinley Park, while St. Laurence is at the Mt. Carmel Regional at Castaways Bowl in Calumet City.

The state tournament is Jan. 27-28 at St. Clair Bowl in O’Fallon.

Sandburg was the lone area team to qualify last year and rolled a 12,915 in four rounds, 446 pins behind champion Stevenson.

Individually, Evergreen Park’s Shawn Quinn

FOCUS ON AREA COLLEGES

By Jeff Vorva

FOCUS ON HIGH SCHOOL BOWLING

By Jeff Vorva

Hills Baseball/Softball (which serves Hickory Hills, Palos Hills and surrounding suburbs) will be holding its 2017 season registration from 5 to 8 p.m. Jan. 19 at the Palos Hills Community Center, 8455 W 103rd St. and 5 to 8 p.m. Feb. 23 at the Hickory Hills Community Center, 7800 W 89th Pl. For more information, visit www.thehillsbaseball. org or call 708-802-2483 or George Czarnik at 708 599-6983.

— We welcome community sports news at sports@regionalpublishing.com.

Mighty Quinn leads St. Xavier to upset of 19th-ranked USF

By Steve Metsch If you’ve ever visited Toyota Park and marveled at the emerald green field of grass, you’re not alone.

That grass that looks so impressive has now won major recognition.

The Sports Turf Managers Association, a professional organization for the 2,600 men and women who manage sports fields worldwide, also has taken notice.

The organization, based in Lawrence, Kansas, recently announced its 2016 Field of the Year Award winners. And Toyota Park, home of the Chicago Fire and Chicago Red Stars, has been named the finest professional soccer field in the nation.

Bridgeview Mayor Steve Landek said he is thrilled that the park in his commmunity won the award, noting the many compliments he’s heard from visitors about the quality of the playing field.

“That means our grass is the greenest, softer, stronger, more beautiful and more perfect than any soccer stadium in the country.

Bridgeview should be proud of this recognition and how teams throughout the world recognize the wonderful place, Bridgeview and Toyota Park,” Landek said.

The mayor added that “soccer teams from throughout the world have played in Bridgeview and brought millions of dollars in revenue and guests to Bridgeview.”

Debra Augle, Toyota Park’s general manager, said just being considered for Field of the Year “is a great honor and privilege.”

It’s no wonder Toyota Park turf manager Joel White feels a tad overwhelmed.

“It’s kind of a shock. There are a lot of good fields out there. It’s important, especially when just two of us are doing the work,” said White, who is assisted by Brian Fickett. They both work for the village of Bridgeview, which owns Toyota Park, 71st Street and Harlem Avenue.

White, who had worked at Oak Park Country Club for 35 years before taking over at Toyota Park, said “soccer is pretty destructive on a field.”

“You have to put it back together again for another game. We have the Fire, the Red Stars, concerts, one year we had all the Northwestern University soccer games there, men and wom-

Hills baseball and softball signups

finished 15th with a 2,724, firing a 723 and 700 in the final two rounds. Tommy Hayes of Sandburg finished 30th. Cameron Crowe, a freshman last year who won the SouthWest Suburban Conference Blue title, plus regional and sectional titles, finished 39th and Stagg’s Sean Murray took 40th. All four are back.

League leaders The Sandburg and Richards boys bowling teams needed every pin they could get as both teams narrowly won conference championships on Saturday.

The Eagles won the SouthWest Suburban Blue event for the first time in school history at Laraway Lanes in New Lenox with a 6,212, just nine pins ahead of Lincoln-Way Central. Richards won the South Suburban Conference Red title at Palos Lanes in Palos Heights with a 6,093 — seven pins ahead of Reavis.

Crowe led the Eagles with a fourth-place finish, shooting 1,317 in six games. Sandburg’s

Brandon Goerin and A.J. Svatos finished eighths and ninth, respectively, and Stagg’s Sean Murray placed 10th.

In the SSC, Shepard’s Jordan Noftz won the individual title with a 1,364 and was red-hot after opening the session with a 154 game.

Oak Lawn’s Mike Rollberg took second, Richards’ Matt LaBonte took third, Shepard’s Trevor Lorek fourth, Evergreen Park’s Quinn fifth, Richards’ Matt Lagioia eighth and Richards’ Max Simik ninth.

Brother Rice won the Chicago Catholic League title at Poplar Creek Bowl in Hoffman Estates, beating St. Laurence in two out of three in Baker format matches, with the Crusaders winning the deciding game, 178-163.

Vince Carlson, Cade Ruggierio, Mike Stanton, Anthony Butler and Jake Davies were on the winning Crusader team.

St. Laurence was led by all-conference selections Ryan Sanfratello and Tyler Balandes.

Vikings coach Joe Faber won the CCL’s Tony Lawless Coach of the Year Award.

The St. Xavier University women’s basketball team was not able to pull off an upset over the No. 1 University of St. Francis on Saturday at the Shannon Center but the men did their part in knocking off a ranked team.

Brother Rice graduate Quinn Niego scored 29 points, dished out a career-high eight assists and drained seven 3-pointers in an 80-68 win over St. Francis, which was ranked 19th in the nation in NAIA Division II play, in a Chicagoland Collegiate Athletic Conference game.

The Cougars (9-9 overall/6-4 CCAC) held a slim 36-35 lead at the break but opened the second half with a Photo by Jeff Vorva 21-8 run to build Quinn Niego helped St. Xavier Unia 57-43 lead with versity to an upset win over the 12:32 to play in 19th-ranked University of St. Francis the game. Senior on Saturday with 28 points, eight asguard Kyle Hup- sists and seven 3-pointers. pe (Edgerton, Kan./Gardner Edgerton) added 19 points.

Junior guard Jared Jones (Waukee, Iowa/Trinity Christian/Des Moines Christian) added nine points for the Cougars and surpassed 1,000 points for his collegiate career at both Trinity Christian and SXU. The Saints were led by senior guard Jo Jo Ballestero with 14 points.

Trinity Christian College Men’s basketball: The Trolls came up short in their upset bid with a 92-91 overtime loss to Trinity International University, a team that received votes in the NAIA national poll.

Jordan Perry earned a double-double of 24 points and 13 rebounds. Jouzas Balciunas added 22 and Myles Birgan 18.

Women’s basketball: TCC dropped a 61-54 decision to Trinity International University to fall under the .500 mark at 8-9 overall.

Kelsie Foster led the Trolls with 15 points and 11 rebounds. Bethany Jansma had 11 points and four rebounds and Lauren Stokes had 10 points and eight rebounds.

Moraine Valley Community College Women’s basketball: The Cyclones improved to 13-1 with a tight 68-65 victory over St. Louis Community College on Thursday as Michelle Borgen had 25 points and nine rebounds. Erin Drynan hauled down 13 rebounds.

Men’s basketball: For the second time in four games, the Cyclones beat a team that it lost to earlier in the season when it topped Danville, 82-76 on Thursday.

Jason Roland had 20 points for the 9-8 Cyclones.

The Regional News - The Reporter

Thursday, January 12, 2017 Section 2

3

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

Mike Shepski and Brother Rice will host Marist Tuesday night in a highly anticipated neighborhood battle between two of the area’s best teams this season. Shepski scored 35 points against the Agriculture Science School on Friday.

W-L

STREAK

13-3 10-6 10-6 17-0 5-10 6-7 5-10 8-5 5-8 10-5

W2 W5 L2 W17 W1 L1 W2 L3 L3 L1

NEXT

at Mt. Carmel, Fri.; hosts Marist, Tues. hosts Illiana, Fri. hosts Hillcrest, Fri.; at TFN Shootout, Sat.-Sun. hosts Marian, Fri.; at Brother Rice, Tues. hosts Bremen, Thurs.; hosts CICS-Longwood, Sat. hosts Lemont, Fri. hosts Bishop McNamara, Fri.; hosts Reavis, Tues. at Lockport, Fri,; at Tinley Park, Tues. hosts TF South, Fri.; at Peotone, Tues. at LW East, Thurs.; at Andrew, Tues.

* Records through Sunday, Jan. 8; compiled by Jeff Vorva

GIRLS Chicago Christian Evergreen Park Marist Mother McAuley Oak Lawn Queen of Peace Richards Sandburg Shepard Stagg

Photo by Jeff Vorva

W-L

STREAK

13-5 13-5 16-3 12-5 11-10 18-1 10-5 9-11 6-12 9-8

W2 L1 W4 W2 L1 W3 W1 L1 L3 L1

NEXT

hosts Shepard, Sat.; at Timothy Christian, Tues. at Hillcrest, Fri.; at Oak Lawn, Tues.; hosts Universal, Wed. Stevenson at Willowbrook Shootout, Sat.; at Marian Catholic, Wed. hosts St. Ignatius, Thurs.; Wheaton North at Willowbrook Shootout, Sat. at Bremen,Thurs.; hosts Evergreen Park, Tues. at Providence, Thurs.; hosts De La Salle, Tues. at Lemont, Fri.; hosts Eisenhower, Tues. at Homewood-Flossmoor, Thurs.; hosts Bolingbrook, Tues. at T.F. South, Thurs.; at Chicago Christian, Sat.; hosts Argo, Tues. hosts Lockport, Fri.; at Homewood-Flossmoor, Tues.

* Records through Sunday, Jan. 8; compiled by Randy Whalen

FOCUS ON HIGH SCHOOL BASKETBALL

I’ll sidestep predicting if NU two-steps in March T

Photo by Jeff Vorva

St. Laurence’s Justin Wierzgac (left, on floor) and his teammates have gotten up from a 1-9 start and are pulling off stunners, including a win over St. Rita on Friday night.

Vikings pull off another stunner after a 1-9 start

By Jeff Vorva Sports Editor

The malaise for Maley and his troops could be over.

The St. Laurence boys basketball team opened the season 1-9, and coach Jim Maley missed a portion of it with illness.

A 3-1 showing and top-eight finish in the 32-team Jack Tosh Tournament at York High School to close out the 2016 portion of the tournament was a nice boost for the team.

But the best was yet to come.

The Vikings came up with a wild 58-55 home victory over perennial power St. Rita on Friday night in a Chicago Catholic League South battle.

Justin Wierzgac hit two free throws with six seconds left and the Mustangs (6-6 overall in a schedule that features some national competition) were not able to drain a final 3-point attempt.

Christian Ferrer also hit a pair of free throws in the final minute.

The Vikings (5-10 overall heading into this week) hope to keep the winning going as they host Bishop McNamara (10-4)

Friday and crosstown rival Reavis (6-9) on Tuesday.

Another Queen of Peace milestone Queen of Peace senior Kara Shimko continues to put up impressive scoring numbers. She enters this week with 1,307 career points, which is a school record.

Shelby Elstner, who graduated in 1994, held the previous mark of 1,218.

Elstner was on hand Saturday for the Pride’s game with Shepard in Burbank, and she and posed with the new scoring leader. Shimko was scheduled to be honored for the milestone on Tuesday when the Pride hosted Resurrection.

Big on the boards

Josh Decker, a 6-foot-6 senior, hauled down 20 rebounds in a 66-56 victory over Ridgewood on Jan. 3. It was the second-best rebounding performance in Chicago Christian history. Bradford Fitzpatrick had 23 against Luther North in 2014.

hey have teased us before, so I am not making any bold predictions.

But two years in a row we have seen something we thought we would never see in sports.

In 2015, Phillips became the first Chicago Public League football team to win an Illinois High School Association state championship.

In 2016…well…you know. But in case you were in a coma all year, the Cubs won the World Series for the first time in 108 years.

Northwestern, you are up in 2017.

The Wildcats men’s basketball team has never qualified for the NCAA Tournament.

Never.

Northwestern, the Citadel, Army, St. Francis Brooklyn and William and Mary are the only five longtime teams that have come up dry the third month each year. There are some newer teams — such as Chicago State — that also have been miserable in March but haven’t sustained the longevity of being on the outside looking in as the Wildcats have.

After NU opened the season with an 11-2 nonconference record, it was easy to be impressed with the Wildcats. But they have had gaudy nonconference records in the past and haven’t shown much in the Big Ten season.

Entering this week, they have conference wins over Penn State and Nebraska but losses to Michigan State and Minnesota.

The way the conference is shaping up, there are so many winnable games that I am almost ready to declare this as the year the Wildcats break the 0-for-forever streak.

But I’ll wait and see.

They’ve teased us before.

The next wave on the North Side The Cubs have so many young players poised

JEFF VORVA Making the Extra Point to be on the major league roster for a long time that it seems like it will be difficult for the next wave of top prospects to break the club.

But baseball is one of those sports that is not exactly predictable, and you never know when or why a spot will open up on the 25-man roster.

Moving up to the No. 1 spot on the Cubs’ prospect list according to Baseball America is outfielder Eloy Jimenez, a Dominican star who probably won’t be up soon because he is 21 and the Cubs don’t need any more outfielders.

He hit .329 with 14 homers and 81 RBI for Low Class A South Bend and led the Midwest League with 40 doubles and slugging percentage (.532).

An unnamed club official called him “a physical animal.’’

No. 2 on the BA list is Ian Happ, a 22-year-old second baseman/outfielder (good luck with that) who was drafted by Cincinnati in the first round in 2015. BA says “Happ hasn’t mastered a position yet, mostly because he’s not truly average at one.’’

The magazine also said the Cubs gave him plenty of reps at second base, where scouts see “stiff actions, rigid hands and below-average overall defense.’’

But his hitting is supposed to be good, so maybe he will be eventually dealt to an American League team.

On the hill, the top prospect is right-hander Dylan Cease, who pitched in Wrigley Field in an Under Armour event and has already had Tommy John surgery. In short-season play at Eugene, he was 2-2 with a 2.22 ERA.

Another Stagg milestone Shortly after Stagg boys basketball coach John Daniels won his 300th career game, girls coach Bill Turner claimed his 100th victory on Jan. 3 when the Chargers beat Reavis, 41-37, in a non-conference game in Burbank.

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4

Section 2 Thursday, January 12, 2017

The Regional News - The Reporter

Stars of tomorrow open the New Year at Marist event

By Jeff Vorva Sports Editor

On a night that featured no high school sports in the area, Marist High School opened its doors to some top eighth-grade volleyball talent in the 4th Annual RedHawks All-Star Game on Jan. 2.

More than 150 fans watched the Red team

knock off the Black team, 25-12, 25-27, 15-13.

Participants were Incarnation’s Molly McDermott, Molly Mather, Connie Lebel and Kaylee Cozen; Most Holy Redeemer’s Bridget Sheehan and Nikki Jones; St. Barnabas’s Ellie Kurpeikis and Lizzie Acevedo; St. Christina’s Lauren McDonald and Sydney Affolter; St. Linus’s Nieve Boland and Shannon Condon;

Lauren McDonald of St. Christina racks up a kill for the Red team.

St. Jane’s Ewelina Gacek and Jacquelyn LaFollet; Our Lady of the Woods’ Caroline Koeppen; Sutherland’s Lauren Stallard; Cardinal Bernardin’s Katianne Soltys; St. Patricia’s Tiffany Tough and Erin Moran; St. John Fischer’s Meghan Quinn; St. Cajetan’s Grace Scanlon; and Christ the King’s Abby Sarich and Briana Brown.

The Red team celebrates a 25-12, 25-27, 15-13 victory.

Incarnation’s Molly McDermott watches after making a one-armed save for the Black team.

Coaches from Marist’s program were Grace McGrath, Grace Green, Meg Krasowski, Molly Murrihy, Abby Callahan and Katie Hogan.

Referees and line judges from Marist were Monica Lang, Katie Mather, Avery Jedry and Paige Cormier.

Here are some photos from the event:

St. Barnabas’s Ellie Kurpeikis gets ready for a serve.

Katianne Soltys of Cardinal Bernardin looks up after making a diving dig in the eighth-grade all-star game at Marist on Jan. 2.

Bridget Sheehan of Most Holy Redeemer comes up with a dig for the Black team in the Marist AllStar game.

Incarnation’s Connie Lebel got things going for the Red squad with her serves.

Photos by Jeff Vorva

Parkers

Continued from Page 1 was pretty cool on my part, but it was pretty much regular because I got to see him play in a lot of high school games.”

Malik, his dad Michael Sr. and his brother Michael Jr. would tag along with Jabari to Washington Park when Jabari was a high school underclassman. Sonny Parker, Jabari’s dad and Malik’s dad’s brother, held weekend open gym practices as part of the Sonny Parker Youth Foundation.

Malik would do drills, get up shots and scrimmage with his cousin — as much as a four-year age difference would allow.

Afterward, Sonny would take the whole family out to Bacci Pizza. “(Malik and Jabari) were a lot closer when they were younger. Less so when

Jabari had other responsibilities when things got big,” Michael Sr. said. “Jabari’s just a great, outgoing person. He’s wellrounded, humble (and) someone you’d like for others to emulate.”

Like most millennials, texting is the main method of communication for Malik and Jabari. Even Michael Sr. has been surprised by the rapid responses Malik would get from Jabari during the grind of the NBA season. Malik has checked in often, especially following Jabari’s left ACL tear and surgery just one month into his rookie NBA season in 2014.

“We communicate very often,” Malik said. “I text him to check up on him. I know he’s busy on the road, so whenever he gets the message, he texts me back right away. We used to talk more when he was in high school. Just text about what’s up, how’s it going, when his next game is.

He asks about the family, how’s the fam-

ily doing.”

Malik and Jabari exchanged texts before the Dec. 31 game. After the game, Malik had to leave with his team and was unable to visit Jabari and get a picture with him behind the bench, like the rest of his family did. Michael Sr., Michael Jr., and mom Sharon Parker attended, as well as Sonny, Jabari’s mom Lola Parker and a sister, Tila Parker.

After this season, Malik will continue playing basketball at Division II St. Thomas Aquinas College in Sparkill, N.Y., a program he called the best fit for him. Unlike Jabari, he’s not going to a big-name school like Duke and probably won’t be the No. 2 pick in an NBA Draft.

He was already savoring the experience of playing on an NBA court. Getting to see his cousin succeed on the same court that same day made for lasting memories and a positive note on which to end 2016.

SXU

Continued from Page 1 “We didn’t get out on her — we let her shoot the ball,” SXU’s Mikayla Leyden said of Jordan. “(Otherwise) I don’t think we were bad on defense. They were just really hitting their shots.”

Leyden and Brittany Collins led the Cougars with 18 points each, Leyden adding eight assists and Collins 17 rebounds. They combined for 25 second-half points as St. Xavier trimmed what was as much as a 24-point deficit to nine with 26 seconds left.

Leyden, who passed 1,000 career points Jan. 3 in a win over Judson, conceded the big game aura might have impacted her

team in the early going.

“I’m excited for every game, but especially this one,” she said.

“We’ll definitely learn from this game and go forward.”

Kara Krolicki added 16 points and Chanel Fanter 15 as St. Xavier brought its shooting percentage up from 31 percent at the half to 41 percent for the game.

“I was happy for my team in the second half,” Hallberg said.

“It would’ve been on thing to be down 23 at the half and lose by 46.

“If you want to compete for a national championship, you’ve got to learn how to play when you’re down. We needed a lesson.

You can sometimes start feeling invincible.”

5

Section 2 Thursday, January 12, 2017

The Regional News - The Reporter

For Sale

For Sale

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT - CHANCERY DIVISION U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE FOR THE HOLDERS OF THE FIRST FRANKLIN MORTGAGE LOAN TRUST MORTGAGE PASS-THROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2005-FF9, Plaintiff, vs.

ANNA E. NESTOR A/K/A ANNA NESTOR, THOMAS B. NESTOR A/K/A THOMAS NESTOR, LINCOLNWAY COMMUNITY BANK, DOORNBOS HEATING AND AIR CONDITIONING, INC., STATE OF ILLINOIS DEPARTMENT OF REVENUE, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA FOR THE BENEFIT OF THE INTERNAL REVENUE, UNKNOWN OWNERS, GENERALLY, AND NONRECORD CLAIMANTS, Defendants, 11 CH 23296 NOTICE OF SALE PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above entitled cause on May 29, 2015 Intercounty Judicial Sales Corporation will on Friday, February 10, 2017 at the hour of 11 a.m. in their office at 120 West Madison Street, Suite 718A, Chicago, Illinois, sell at public auction to the highest bidder for cash, as set forth below, the following described mortgaged real estate: P.I.N. 27-09-108-020-0000.

Commonly known as 14460 Raneys Lane, Orland Park, IL 60462.

The mortgaged real estate is improved with a single family residence. If the subject mortgaged real estate is a unit of a common interest community, the purchaser of the unit other than a mortgagee shall pay the assessments required by subsection (g-1) of Section 18.5 of the Condominium Property Act. Sale terms: 10% down by certified funds, balance, by certified funds, within 24 hours. No refunds. The property will NOT be open for inspection For information call Ms. Kimberly S. Reid at Plaintiff’s Attorney, Kluever & Platt, L.L.C., 65 East Wacker Place, Chicago, Illinois 60601.

(312) 236-0077.

File Number SPSF.0399 INTERCOUNTY JUDICIAL SALES CORPORATION Selling Officer, (312) 444-1122 I711603

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT - CHANCERY DIVISION WATERFALL OLYMPIC MASTER FUND GRANTOR TRUST, SERIES II, SUCCESSOR IN INTEREST BY ASSIGNMENT FROM BYLINE BANK, F/K/A NORTH COMMUNITY BANK, SUCCESSOR

BY MERGER TO ARCHER BANK, Plaintiff, vs.

EDWARD KOPINSKI A/K/A EDWARD J. KOPINSKI; BARBARA R. KOPINSKI, UNKNOWN OWNERS AND NON RECORD CLAIMANTS, Defendants, 13 CH 17609 NOTICE OF SALE PUBLIC NOTICE is hereby given that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure entered in the above entitled cause Intercounty Judicial Sales Corporation will on Monday, January 30, 2017, at the hour of 11 a.m. in their office at 120 West Madison Street, Suite 718A, Chicago, Illinois, sell to the highest bidder for cash, the following described mortgaged real estate: P.I.N. 23-34-100-032-0000.

Commonly known as 13000 South 94th Avenue, Palos Park, IL 60464.

The mortgaged real estate is a single family residence.

If the subject mortgaged real estate is a unit of a common interest community, the purchaser of the unit other than a mortgagee shall pay the assessments required by subsection (g-1) of Section 18.5 of the Condominium Property Act. Sale terms: Bidders must present, at the time of sale, a cashier’s or certified check for 10% of the successful bid amount. The balance of the successful bid shall be paid within 24 hours, by similar funds. The property will NOT be open for inspection.

For information call Ms. Sheryl A. Fyock at Plaintiff’s Attorney, Latimer LeVay Fyock LLC, 55 West Monroe Street, Chicago, Illinois 60603. (312) 422-8000.

72000-05 INTERCOUNTY JUDICIAL SALES CORPORATION Selling Officer, (312) 444-1122 I711203

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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.

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The Regional News - The Reporter

Thursday, January 12, 2017 Section 2

Help Wanted

Help Wanted

ACCOUNTANT

Suburban law firm seeking part-time receptionist with 1-2 years of related experience in an office environment. Candidates must be able to multi-task without compromising on quality, be professional and courteous under stressful situations, be able to prioritize tasks in a fast paced environment, be able to collaborate and support fellow co-workers and be proficient in handling office equipment. Job duties include greeting guests and visitors in an efficient, professional and pleasant manner, helping guests with appropriate information needed while maintaining confidentiality, answering phone calls and directing callers to the respective attorneys/departments, collecting, sorting and delivering incoming mail, file maintenance and assisting with clerical tasks such as copying and faxing on an as needed basis. All inquiries and resumes should be directed to Kim Ooley, Office Manager, at kooley@odelsonsterk.com.

We are seeking an experienced part-time/full-time Accountant to join our client service team offering tax preparation, accounting, and payroll services to closely held businesses and individuals. Tax preparation experience and familiarity with ProSeries /Turbotax or Quickbooks a plus. Hours are flexible.

Compensation commensurate with experience.

Please email your resume, including salary history to iahrbox@sbcglobal.net

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

OUT & ABOUT

The Regional News • The Reporter

Thursday, January 12, 2017

Southwest • Section 2, Page 7

BROADEN YOUR HORIZONS WOLFGANG PUCK’S KITCHEN McCord announces new schedule

A new set of workshops has been announced at the McCord Gallery & Cultural Center, 9602 W. Creek Road, Palos Park. To register or obtain further details, phone (708) 671-0648.

• Silk Painting is set for 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Fridays, Jan. 13, 20 and 27. Explore two basic silk painting techniques: you will create two abstract design scarves and one scarf using the French serti (resist) technique. Designs come to life as both beginners and experienced silk artists benefit from seeing new possibilities in this ancient medium. All supplies provided. (A $36 materials fee is payable to the instructor at the first class.)

• Prints, Paisley and Tutus is a series of one-day workshops focusing on the costumed model beautifully dressed and just waiting to be the subject of a colorful painting. The model will strike several short poses as you work on warm up drawings.

The emphasis is on capturing the gesture of the model in colorful costumes rather than a portrait.

There will be short demonstrations in oil and pastel and tips on using lighting to define your shapes.

All media and levels welcome but some painting experience is needed. Take one workshop or sign up for all. All are held from noon to 4 p.m. The first, “Model in Turquoise Print Robe,” is set for Saturday, Jan. 28. “Model in Vintage Paisley” will be held Sunday, February 5. “Dancer in Tutu” is scheduled for Saturday, March 4.

• Art and Soul is a workshop set for 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 25. All supplies will be provided.

The workshop will feature guided imagery to quiet your mind and provide you with deep relaxation and relief from any stress that you might be experiencing. After a short break and light refreshments, you will create several unique works of art for yourself or to give as a gift. No art experience is required for this creative play. The beauty of your spirit will guide you. Please bring a yoga mat and small blanket or towel. Chairs will be available for those who choose not to lie down.

The Center sets event schedule

Several upcoming programs are scheduled for The Center, 12700 S. Southwest Highway, Palos Park.

• Log Cabin Art for Kids is set for six Saturdays beginning Jan. 14. The kindergarten through second grade session will be held from 10 to 11:30 a.m.; grades 3-8 will meet from 11:30 a.m. to 1

p.m. Instructor Ruth Augspurger will demonstrate a world of art and nature for kids. Classes are held at the Log Cabin Center for the Arts studios and outdoors. Within each session students work on a variety of art projects such as painting, drawing, sculpture, pottery, and more. Each session ends with an art show. The class fee is $85, which includes all supplies.

• Emerson Hill Night: Mrs. Lincoln: The First “First Lady” is set for 5:30 p.m. Sunday Jan. 15.

Mary Todd Lincoln lived a life filled with triumphs and tragedies, but few people know her story. Actress Laura Keyes shares Mary’s story in an entertaining and educational program focusing on the life and losses of Mrs. Lincoln, set on April 14, 1865. The cost for this evening of dining and entertainment is $25.

• Luncheon: Lisa Espinosa’s “Answering Your Inner Calling” is scheduled for noon to 2 p.m.

Tuesday Jan. 17. In her new book, Espinosa shares three simple yet powerful practices that will teach one how to deepen the relationship with one’s soul to share the soul’s medicine with the world. Participants are invited to learn how the soul talks to one’s self in different ways, how to stay awake to its guidance, and how to find and compassionately heal the parts of oneself that are prone to sabotage.

Espinosa will have copies of her book available for purchase. Luncheons cost $22, and reservations must be made in advance.

• Silver Jewelry Class is set for Tuesday Jan. 17 (2 to 4 p.m. or 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.) and will run for six Tuesdays.

Instructor Wendy Martin will teach participants to create pieces of sterling silver jewelry such as pendants, earrings, pins, bracelets and more. Beginning students learn to saw, file, solder and polish in their first introductory projects. Martin will help experienced students learn advance techniques as they design their own jewelry projects. Previous lapidary students may bring polished stones and learn to set them into silver. Class fee is $100.

Students can expect to pay $40-$50 in silver costs, to be paid directly to the instructor in class. Advance registration is required.

• Men’s Point of View is set for 7 p.m. Tuesday Jan. 17. Bill Hopkins will be the discussion leader for the book “The Fifth Agreement” by Don Miguel Ruiz.

For more information or to register for an event, call The Center at (708) 361-3650.

OMARR’S WEEKLY ASTROLOGICAL FORECAST

By Jeraldine Saunders ARIES (March 21-April 19): A neat desk indicates a disciplined mind, but some clutter might prove you are busy. Your work will benefit from orderliness and organization. Focus on establishing routines in the week to come.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): Consider your words carefully in the week to come. Routine conversations may be taken the wrong way and drive a wedge between you and others. Put off crucial agreements, and meetings.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): Flowers don’t bloom unless a little rain falls. The few frustrations you experience in the week ahead will be worth the result. Forge forward fearlessly but don’t spend money too freely.

CANCER (June 21-July 22): Steer clear of mean memes and disruptive debates. You may easily meet up with people suffering from chip-on-shoulder syndrome

in the week ahead. You may be challenged to exert your authority.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Remain alert to nuances. Even in the midst of difficulties you may derive valuable insights in the upcoming week. Even when jobs seem overwhelming you will learn something new.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): It is best to be sincere and to the point this week. Focus on making the best of uncertain situations without getting flustered. If work was always fun, you would pay to do it and not the reverse.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): You may feel like a social diva that amuses others in the week to come but it is possible that not everyone is impressed by your antics. People are easily provoked but may hide their animosity.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Brains and brawn create an unbeatable combination. Your financial ambitions can be realized in the week ahead if you persevere.

You can easily cope with heavy

obligations.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): To get where you want to go you must do what you like the least. No one ever said that achieving your ambitions would be fun. Focus on putting forth your best efforts in the week ahead.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Quickly shifting conditions might shift your focus this week.

Wait for better timing to enter into important agreements or make major investments. Family members may act unpredictably.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Snap decisions could be necessary this week, just don’t snap at those around you. Use tough-minded business tactics to fix problems. Don’t procrastinate about making a sincere apology.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): Hide and seek. You may veil your innermost thoughts with some people, but your sensitivity may emerge under the right circumstances. Avoid making drastic financial decisions this week.

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:

“THE BIRTH OF A NATION’’: Referenced often at the time of the film’s theatrical run, controversy over the past of writer, director and star Nate Parker likely had a box-office impact on this stirring historical drama. He gives a commanding performance as Nat Turner, the bible-educated slave who ultimately inspired a rebellion while being taken on a tour by his master (Armie Hammer) to preach to — and supposedly subdue — others who were owned. Also in the impressive cast are Aja Naomi King (“How to Get Away With Murder’’), Penelope Ann Miller, Gabrielle Union, Jackie Earle Haley, Aunjanue Ellis (“Quantico’’) and Roger Guenveur Smith. *** (R: AS, N, V) (Also on Blu-ray and On Demand) “THE ACCOUNTANT’’: The title identification of Ben Affleck’s character is a bit deceptive in the case of this intriguing action-thriller, since the money-minded man also has to be physically adept

to survive his knowledge of the holdings of some very dangerous people and organizations. A Treasury Department official (J.K. Simmons) is quite interested in the information maintained by the accountant, who gets a jolt to his professional position — and his rather nonsocial life — when a corporate whistleblower (Anna Kendrick) presents evidence of financial treachery within her firm. John Lithgow, Jeffrey Tambor, Jean Smart, Jon Bernthal and Cynthia Addai-Robinson (“Shooter’’) also are in director Gavin O’Connor’s cast. DVD extra: “making-of’’ documentary. *** (R: AS, P, V) (Also on Blu-ray and On Demand) “DEEPWATER HORIZON’’: Anyone aware of news events of recent years likely recognizes the title of this true drama as the name of an oil rig wracked by an explosion in 2010 in the Gulf of Mexico. Mark Wahlberg plays a technician trying to survive the resulting catastrophe along with his co-workers, and director Peter Berg (who also appears in the film) does a masterful job of conveying both the chaos and the heroism.

Kurt Russell lends solid support as a company executive torn between doing the profitable thing and the right thing in the moments before the mayhem. John Malkovich, Gina Rodriguez (“Jane the Virgin’’), Dylan O’Brien and

Ethan Suplee also are featured.

DVD extras: three “making-of’’ documentaries. *** (PG-13: P, V) (Also on Blu-ray and On Demand) “KEVIN HART: WHAT NOW?’’: Not only does this intriguing hybrid pose the title question, it answers it by merging the two types of work Hart principally is known for ... stand-up-humor performances and action-comedy movies. The picture alternates between the genres, with Hart ostensibly playing an MI6 agent whose disastrous participation in a poker game results in his having to perform for a live audience, thus the concert portion (filmed in Philadelphia) showcasing Hart’s familiar patter on such subjects as parenthood and the daily challenges of life. Halle Berry and Don Cheadle also star in the espionageoriented segments. *** (R: AS, P) (Also on Blu-ray and On Demand)

COMING SOON:

“THE GIRL ON THE TRAIN’’ (Jan. 17): Emily Blunt stars as a troubled commuter who believes harm has come to a woman she frequently has observed.

(R: AS, N, P, V) “OUIJA: ORIGIN OF EVIL’’ (Jan. 17): A fake medium (Elizabeth Reaser) puts herself and her daughters in peril when she summons actual supernatural forces.

(PG-13: AS, P, V)

This flavorful side dish is rich in fiber and other nutrients while being remarkably lean.

Dreamstime.com

This year, get acquainted with a grain from the past

By Wolfgang Puck I’ve made more than a few New Year’s resolutions in the past. And, like most people, I can probably count on one hand those I’ve successfully kept for more than a few weeks. But I’m happy to report that one I’ve managed to stick to has been to eat more healthfully — a goal with which so many of us struggle.

What I’ve learned is that the bigger any goal is, the harder it becomes to keep. Promise publicly that you’re going to revolutionize your daily diet overnight, or lose an enormous amount of weight quickly, and you increase the likelihood of failure. After all, with such lofty definitions of success, even one tiny slip-up can seem like disaster.

Set more reasonable goals, though, and you increase the chance that you can enjoy small victories that build your resolve almost every day. The result can be real, positive results.

Little changes in the way you eat can help you build a foundation for weight loss and more vital health. Decide to choose leaner cuts of meat, for example, or eat a low-fat vegetarian main dish once or more per week, or have fresh fruit for dessert, and you can gradually, successfully change your eating habits.

Even introducing a healthy new side dish can make a difference.

Take, for example, my recipe for farro and root vegetable pilaf.

Farro, an ancient ancestor of wheat that you can find in the rice and grains section of many wellstocked supermarkets today, has a satisfying, earthy, nutty flavor and a chewy texture that makes it a pleasure to eat. In the following recipe, it forms the foundation

for an earthy, nutty, flavorful side dish that is rich in fiber and other nutrients while being remarkably lean — with fewer than 25 percent of the calories coming from fat. Enjoy it in place of the usual buttered white rice or mashed potatoes you might usually serve, and you’re already on your way to a healthier diet.

The dish is remarkably flexible, too. I often like to top it with grilled seafood, poultry or lean meat for a one-dish meal.

You could add or substitute other hardy vegetables you like for those included in the pilaf here; and replace some or all of the water with vegetable stock or chicken stock to give the farro even more flavor. Add different herbs or spices you prefer. And I like to use leftovers, or an extra batch I cook at the same time, to serve cold as a salad, drizzling a low-fat dressing on top.

I hope you’ll feel inspired to make this healthy recipe one of your own. Who knows? It could become the start of a whole new healthy way of eating.

FARRO AND ROOT VEGETABLE PILAF Serves 4 • 2 tablespoons extravirgin olive oil, plus more if serving the pilaf cold • 1 large organic carrot, cut into 1/4-inch (6-mm) dice • 1 large organic celery stalk, cut into 1/4-inch (6-mm) dice • 1 medium yellow onion, cut into 1/4-inch (6-mm) dice • 1 small fennel bulb, trimmed and cut into

1/4-inch (6-mm) dice • 1 garlic clove, finely chopped (optional) • 1/2 pound (250 g) uncooked farro, about 1 1/4 cups (310 mL) • 2 quarts (2 L) water • Kosher salt • Freshly ground black pepper • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives or parsley, or julienned fresh basil leaves, or other leafy greens In a medium-sized saucepan, heat the olive oil over mediumhigh heat. When it is hot enough to swirl easily and shimmers slightly, add the diced carrot, celery, onion and fennel.

Saute until the vegetables are tender-crisp and lightly browned, 5 to 7 minutes, taking care to stir frequently and adjusting the heat if necessary to prevent the vegetables from scorching before they’re done. If you like, stir in the garlic just until fragrant.

Add the farro to the pan and stir until it is lightly toasted, darkening slightly in color and giving off a nutty fragrance, about 1 minute.

Add the water, season lightly to taste with salt and pepper, and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to very low, cover the pan, and simmer gently until the farro is tender but still slightly chewy, about 25 minutes.

Pour the farro-and-vegetable mixture into a fine-meshed strainer to drain off any excess liquid. Return the pilaf to the pot, cover, and keep warm until serving time.

To serve, taste and adjust the seasonings, if necessary, with a little more salt and pepper. Transfer it to a heated bowl. Garnish with the fresh herbs or greens and serve immediately.

LIZ SMITH

More memories of Debbie Reynolds — ‘Unsinkable,’ but very human

By Liz Smith “IT’S ALREADY clear to me how much of life is forgotten even as it happens. Most of it.

The unregarded present spooling away from us, the soft tumble of unremarkable thoughts, the longneglected miracle of existence ... she won’t remember the way she set down the spoon and the sound it made on slate, the frock she wore today, the touch of her sandal’s thong between her toes, the summer’s warmth, the white noise of the city beyond the house walls, a short burst of birdsong by a closed window. All gone, already.”

This is from Ian McEwan’s exquisite thriller “Nutshell.” It is perhaps the most unusual and beautifully written “murder mystery” I’ve read in years. I can’t tell you one plot point without giving away what you’ll find out within the first two pages. But you need to find out for yourself. All I can

say, in a nutshell, is — this book is art. Most highly recommended.

BACK in 1953, Debbie Reynolds appeared in a little movie titled “Give a Girl a Break.” It was ostensibly a starring vehicle for MGM’s dancing duo, Marge and Gower Champion, but talented as the pair were, they were not terribly charismatic. Fred and Ginger weren’t losing sleep. It was Debbie, vivacious and adorable, who benefited from that movie.

I’ve come to think the film’s title could have been the story of Debbie’s life, at least in terms of her husbands. Few women in public life suffered as much from lousy choices as did Debbie. As tough as she could be (and that was pretty tough) and as smart as she was about her career, she was a sucker for men who used and abused her. And Eddie Fisher was the least of it. He humiliated her in his abandonment, leaping to the well-fleshed arms of Liz

Taylor. But clever Debbie claimed she and Fisher were very happy, and this was all coming as a big shock. She wore diaper pins and pigtails to meet the press. She turned lemons into lemonade on a grand scale. But that was her one and only success. (She also had the pleasure of watching Fisher humiliated when Taylor threw him over for Richard Burton.)

The two that came after, Harry Karl and Richard Hamlett, were just downright evil and both bankrupted her.

I have always been haunted by a phone call I received from Debbie some years back. It must have been around the time her third marriage went under, and she was faced with losing money and property — all the wonderful movie memorabilia she had collected for her museum. She called to thank us for a recent item. Then she said, “You’ve always been so Continued on page 8

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

OUT & ABOUT

The Regional News • The Reporter

Thursday, January 12, 2017

Southwest • Section 2, Page 8

LIZ SMITH Continued from page 7 good to me. A year ago you wrote something else, about how I was a real survivor. And that’s true. It’s been hard, but I have survived.”

It seemed to me Debbie was becoming rather emotional. She went on: “I saved that item. I laminated it. I have it here, with me now.

It means so much!” Then, shockingly, she burst into sobs. What to do with a weeping living legend?

I let her cry.

Debbie swiftly pulled herself together, apologized, made light of her distress and we said our goodbyes. I have never forgotten this glimpse of her great vulnerability and the pain she clearly carried with her. She was, publicly, a cockeyed optimist, the show woman par excellence. In her 2013 memoir, titled “Unsinkable” (in homage to her Oscar-nominated turn in “The Unsinkable Molly Brown”) she found more humor than bitterness in relating the horror of her final marriage. Or at least she chose to put the humor front and center — MGM girls hold their heads high.

She later sent thanks when we praised her marvelous performance in “Mother” with Albert Brooks and when we expressed our severe disappointment that she had not received an Academy Award gest bands and best-known poster nomination. artists,” Baker continued. “As an THIS N’ THAT: artist, it’s the limitations of the ...Do you want to see a play that medium I find most liberating. Our creative tools are so powerful these shocked Victorian London so much days it can be paralyzing. Screen that it was censored for eight years? printing imposes parameters, it has The play that, when it opened in relatively narrow strengths, and New York in 1895, caused the encreating inside those boundaries tire cast to be arrested? Of course has defined how I create art. I you do. So, on Jan. 16, get yourself have an abiding love of music to Symphony Space on 95th Street and I see posters as the quintes- and Broadway for Bernard Shaw’s sential graphic design challenge. “Mrs. Warren’s Profession.” This That their intersection as a viable is part of The Gingold Theatrical art form exist in the silkscreen Group’s ongoing “Project Shaw.” print shop is an amazing stroke I won’t spoil it by telling Mrs. of luck for me.”

Warren’s profession, but her name is Kitty. Go from there. The play stars Bill Kux, Charlotte Moore, A.J. Shively, Victor Slezak, J. Smith-Cameron, Talene Monahon and Paxton Whitehead. Call 212864-5400. ...On Jan. 28, iHeartRadio will present the second annual iHeart80’s Party at the SAP Center in San Jose, California. Well, who doesn’t “heart” Rick Astley, New Kids on the Block, Starship, Eddie Money, Astro and Mickey, Colin Hay of Men at Work, Ali Campbell, Night Ranger and UB40? They’ll all be there, and the event will be hosted by Martha Quinn, one of the iconic original MTV veejays. For more info, visit iHeartRadio.com/iHeart80sParty

‘Gig posters’ on display at SXU Saint Xavier University’s (SXU) Art Gallery will feature the screen printing work of Kyle Baker and will serve as the first exhibit installment of the spring semester.

The “Silkscreen Gig Posters” exhibition is running now to Tuesday, Feb. 7 in the SXU Art Gallery on the Chicago campus, 3700 W. 103rd St. A presentation by the artist and reception will be held in the SXU Gallery on Wednesday, Jan. 18 at 3:30 p.m. The public is invited.

Gallery hours are 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday, Wednesday and Friday; noon to 5 p.m. Tuesday

and Thursday; and 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday.

Baker is a graphic and web designer who owns Baker Prints, a Chicago-based commercial art and design business. He is an accredited professional of the American Poster Institute (API) and an officer of the Chicago Printers Guild (CPG). Baker attended Bradley University on a full academic scholarship, where he received a bachelor of science degree in psychology with minors in business management and professional writing.

“I fell in love with screen

printing the first time I tried it,” Baker said. “I took Steve Walter’s Screwball Academy eight years ago; a single-day, one-on-one crash course in flat stock screen printing.

It hit me like a ton of bricks – keep doing this, as much as you possibly can. It’s ineffable, not unlike the joy I get from playing ping pong.

Steadily I’ve gotten really good at it. As I got better I put a proper print shop together, piece by piece, and I started printing other artists’ work as well as my own.

“Today I have three full-time employees and we print posters every day for some of the big-

RICK STEVES’ EUROPE

Going solo? How to have fun in Europe

By Rick Steves I’ve talked to too many people who put off their travel dreams just because they haven’t found a travel partner: The prospect of going alone sounds either too daunting or just not all that fun.

But traveling on your own can be rewarding, vivid and exhilarating — a gift from you to you.

Prepared with a positive attitude and solid information, you’ll thrive in Europe. And you’ll come home stronger and more confident than ever before.

Traveling solo certainly has its pros and cons — and for me, the pros far outweigh the cons. When you’re on your own, you’re independent and in control. You can travel at your own pace, do what interests you, eat where and when you like and splurge where you want to splurge. You don’t have to wait for your partner to pack up, and you can get the heck out of that stuffy museum when all the Monets start to blur together.

Without a travel partner, you’ll need to be extra aware of your surroundings. Use street smarts and walk purposefully. If you get lost in an unfriendly neighborhood, be savvy about whom you ask for help. Unless you’re fluent in the language, you must accept that you won’t always know what’s happening. (Though it might seem worrisome, there’s a reason why the Greek bus driver dropped you off in the middle of nowhere. It’s a transfer point, and another bus will come along in a few minutes.)

Don’t be afraid to ask for help or clarification. You’ll often discover that the locals are looking out for you. However, a healthy dose of skepticism and an eagle eye in crowded or isolated places will help you stay safe.

For many people contemplating a solo trip, loneliness is their biggest fear. Fortunately, Europe is full of diverse people and natural meeting places. Traveling on your own, you’ll be more approachable and likely to meet a montage of fun, temporary travel partners.

If you’re shy, you might also consider an organized European tour, where you can relinquish trip-planning to a well-seasoned guide and enjoy a built-in circle of fun travel partners.

Seek opportunities to connect with people. Social-networking sites like https://www.meetup. com/ make it easy to find groups of like-minded travelers and locals. If you stay at a hostel or guesthouse, you’re likely to bond with other guests and sociable hosts. When out and about, skip the selfies — offer to take someone’s picture, then ask them to return the favor.

On the train, ask a friendly passenger about their travel plans and compare stories. Even the shortest conversation with other travelers can brighten a whole afternoon.

Consider joining a group walking tour, where you’ll learn about the city and engage with new vagabuddies.

Many of Europe’s unique meals are more fun to experience with others, and traveling on your own is no reason to miss out. Make them an excuse to invite someone to join you for, say, a “rijsttafel” dinner in the Netherlands, a smorgasbord in Scandinavia, fondue in Switzerland, a paella feast in Spain, or a spaghetti feed in an Italian trattoria. Another tip: Look for people with Rick Steves guidebooks. My readers are notoriously friendly, and many are happy to join a fellow explorer in a culinary adventure.

Take advantage of time alone to learn more of the language. At restaurants, practice your verbal skills with the waitress (when I asked a French waiter if he had kids, he proudly showed me a picture of his twin girls). Plan your next day, study your guidebook, or scrawl a few postcards to the folks back home.

If bars and nightclubs don’t appeal to you as a solo traveler, enjoy the floodlit magic of European nightlife from a different angle. Go for a walk with gelato in hand and enjoy the parade of people, busy shops and illuminated monuments.

Take advantage of the wealth of evening entertainment: concerts, movies, puppet shows and folk dancing. Some cities offer tours after dark. Paris is a delight to experience by evening river cruise.

If you like to stay in at night, get a room with a balcony overlooking a square. You’ll have a front-row seat to the best show in town. Go early to bed and be early to rise.

Shop at a lively morning market

or iHeartRadio@SunshineSachs. com. ...Last May, at the Boettcher Concert Hall in Denver, Colorado, Judy Collins performed a “Love Letter to Sondheim.” This tribute evening had Collins singing from such Sondheim treasures as “Merrily We Roll Along,” “A Little Night Music,” “Sweeney Todd,” “Sunday in the Park with George,” “Company” and “Into the Woods.”

Collins says she always wanted to tackle more Sondheim, ever since her classic, Grammy-winning version of “Send in the Clowns” in 1974. So, in Denver, she did. On Feb. 24, this dazzling concert will be available on DVD, from MVD Entertainment Group. Order at the MVD Shop or Amazon.

RECENTLY, in commenting on pastor (and singer) Kim Burrell’s stringent anti-gay comments, and the strong reaction of Pharrell Williams, I said “stay tuned” in the matter of Pharrell and Kim performing their duet from the soundtrack of “Hidden Figures” on Ellen DeGeneres’ show. As it turns out, Burrell will not appear. Ellen released a very brief statement.

Now, some are saying this is an example of “liberal intolerance.”

No. Ellen did not call for Burrell to lose her job, to be boycotted, to be shamed or bullied on the internet. And if others do, they are wrong. Ms. Burrell is entitled to her beliefs. And entitled to air them, too. We live in America, still.

But, since she has those beliefs, what part of Burrell’s brain thought it would be okay to appear on a program hosted by the most famous lesbian in America? (“Glad to be here, Ellen. Just the other day I was preaching that homosexuals should die this year, but maybe not you, if I get another gig on this show.”)

And given Ellen’s legendary laid-back, nonconfrontational manner, there was no way the star was going to have Burrell on, and then get into a big hassle. When beliefs are so ingrained, no amount of intelligent counter-argument or outraged “gotcha” moments will help. Conversely, one does not want to sit and chit-chat with somebody who thinks you should be dead because of who you love.

You’ve got to be taught to hate and fear, as the great song in “South Pacific” goes. Ms. Burrell and her kind are lost causes. Let’s leave her to heaven — more or less.

There are bigger battles to be fought.

E-mail Liz Smith at MES3838@ aol.com.

氀礀 䘀愀洀椀 氀礀℀ 搀 䘀爀椀攀渀 Dominic Arizona Bonuccelli, Rick Steves’ Europe

Locals are eager to share their culture with an approachable traveler, such as at this “meet-up” dinner in Nice, France.

for fresh rolls and join the locals for coffee.

If one thing doesn’t work out, something else will. There are other trains, other buses, other cities, other people. Thrive on optimism.

Solo travel is intensely personal.

Realizing that you have what it takes to be your own guide is a thrill known only to solo travel-

ers. You will discover more about yourself at the same time you’re discovering more about Europe.

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.

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