Reporter 1 25 18

SURPRISE CONTENDERS: Several area teams hope

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IN SECTION 2

REPORTER COVERAGE IN SPORTS

THE Volume LVIII, No. 46

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Thursday, January 25, 2018

Our Lady of the Ridge School to close in June Tokar: ‘I don’t know where people are going to send their kids’

By Joe Boyle Our Lady of the Ridge School, which has been in existence for 64 years, will close its doors for the last time in June due to low enrollment, according to the Chicago Archdiocese.

The announcement was made on the night of Jan. 17. Our Lady of the Ridge joins Incarnation, 5757 W. 127th St., Palos Heights, which is also scheduled to close in June due to low enrollment. Three other Catholic elementary schools are

also scheduled to close at the end of the school year.

A story first appeared in the Jan. 11 edition of The Reporter stating that parishioners feared that the school, 10810 S. Oxford Ave., Chicago Ridge, would close this year.

Parishioners, parents and faculty have been aware of Our Lady of the Ridge’s fate for some time. Most had little to say this month publically. The school was informed that it might close last year but school officials, alumni and volunteers

raised more than the required $236,000 and had a minimum of 114 students return in the fall. They managed to accomplish the feat in less than a month, sparked by a fundraiser at 115 Bourbon Street in Merrionette Park that drew over 800 people.

However, many eighth-graders did not return this fall, and over 30 students from other classes did not report for classes in August. Still, supporters of Our Lady of the Ridge, which Sr. Stephanie Kondik, See RIDGE, Page 9

Photo by Joe Boyle

Our Lady of the Ridge Elementary School in Chicago Ridge will close in June because of low enrollment, according to the Chicago Archdiocese.

30 mayors support Lipinski in primary Newman gets backing from special-interest groups

By Bob Bong The Democratic primary fight in the 3rd Congressional district between conservative incumbent Dan Lipinski and liberal challenger Marie Newman has become a war of endorsements that reflect their ideology.

Lipinski is regarded as one of the most conservative House Democrats and is a member of the Blue Dog Coalition of conservative Democrats. He opposed Obamacare in 2010 and has consistently voted against pro-choice legislation.

Last week, he picked up the endorsements of the mayors of 30 suburbs in the district. That goes along with union endorsements including from the Illinois AFL-CIO. His opponent in the March 20 primary is more in line with traditional Democratic liberal ideas such as health care, women’s rights, veterans and Medicare.

Mother McAuley sophomore Abbey Murphy takes a breather after she was paraded around the school in a golf cart. The 15-yearold Evergreen Park resident received the hero’s welcome at the school for winning a gold medal as a member of the USA U18 team in the International Ice Hockey Federation’s Women’s World Championship in Russia. For stories and photos, see Sports, Section 2.

Jake Soto explains how his life used to be before being introduced to medicinal marijuana during a testimonial last week at the Worth Village Hall. Soto lined up the medications he used to take before he began using cannabis.

‘It helped get my life back’ Medical marijuana user tells his story during testimonial in Worth

By Joe Boyle Jake Soto said the pain was unbearable. Morphine and other prescriptions were providing him with little relief.

“I had to figure something else out,” Soto said during an information testimonial last week at the Worth Village Hall. “We had to find out a different option because what I was doing wasn’t working. I decided to go with cannabis.”

Soto, 36, a resident of Chicago’s Beverly neighborhood, was

the featured speaker during the meeting. He told the sparse crowd that injuries suffered working as a laborer created a painful existence. He has seven herniated discs in his back.

“I was taking lots of opioids and muscle relaxers,” Soto said.

“I was on 320 milligrams of morphine a day. I was taking pills when I woke up and when I went to sleep.”

Soto often was irritable while dealing with his constant pain.

His wife and two children often received the brunt of his frustra-

Photo by Joe Boyle

tion. Soto knew he had to do something. He then arranged a meeting with Brittany Kim, director of patient outreach for Windy City Cannabis, which has dispensaries not only in Worth but Homewood, Justice and Posen as well.

After holding discussions with Kim at the Justice dispensary, treatments were arranged for Soto, ranging from edibles to extracts. Edibles include any food

Newman

That has shown itself in the endorsements she has picked up, including from two of Lipinski’s more liberal House colleagues from Illinois. U.S. Rep. Jan Schakowsky and Rep. Luis Gutierrez both have endorsed Newman. It’s very rare for congressmen from the same party to back a challenger over one of their own.

She has also picked up support from other Democrats including New York Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand and her Off the Sidelines Political Action Committee.

See PRIMARY, Page 8

Hickory Hills residents get some details about I-294 expansion project

Photo by Jeff Vorva

Good as gold

Lipinski

or beverage infused with cannabis, consumed daily. Extracts are potent concentrates derived from cannabis. They are popular due to their high THC/CBD content. They can be inhaled as smoke or vapor. Another method is dried cannabis flowers, which are most commonly consumed by inhalation of smoke or vapor Soto uses a combination of See MARIJUANA, Page 8

By Sharon L. Filkins Illinois Tollway officials met with Hickory Hills residents and City Council members and staff on Monday to provide an overview of the planned expansion of the I-294 tollway, which borders the east side of the city.

Rocco J. Zucchero, the tollway’s chief planning officer, explained that the planned expansion will include adding lanes in both directions on the 22-mile section of I-294, from Balmoral Avenue on the north, to the 95th Street interchange.

“This section carries the most traffic, including trucks, and has the worst congestion delays. This project is designed to alleviate these problems. Our plan is to have four lanes of traffic open throughout the duration of the project,” Zucchero said.

Construction is scheduled to begin this year with an anticipated completion in 2022.

Zucchero stated that the Tollway Agency had identified 11 property owners in Hickory Hills, whose property abuts

Photo by Sharon J. Filkins

Hickory Hills residents (from left) Marzena Ciszek and Karen Frisco listen to tollway staff member John Nelson explain plans for I-294 expansion Monday night.

the tollway. The purpose of the meeting was to address their concerns and questions about the project.

He said that in most cases, the impact on the resident’s property See I-294, Page 8

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2 The Reporter

Thursday, January 25, 2018

Chicago Ridge police charge man with burglarizing vehicles Chicago Ridge police arrested the sergeant tried to pull the car and charged a 40-year-old Bur- over, but Zeidan drove down a bank man on Friday after he dead-end street and was appreallegedly burglarized eight ve- hended there. hicles in the early hours According to witof that morning. nesses, the offender Police said Munadel was seen breaking out M. Zeidan, of the 8000 car windows to gain block of South Natchez access to the vehicles.

Avenue, was charged The arresting officers with burglary to mosaid numerous allegtor vehicles, criminal edly stolen items filled damage to motor veup the back and front hicles, possession of seat areas of Zeidan’s Zeidan a controlled substance car. Some victims have and driving with a suspended been in contact with the police license. and obtained their property that The burglaries occurred in was stolen. The property that the 10300 and 10400 blocks was found and returned included of South Ridgeland Avenue, a work ID card, power tools, 7100 block of west 99th Street, cigarettes, clothing, I-Passes and 7000 block of Mather Avenue, radios.

7100 block of O’Connell Drive, Police are continuing the in10900 block of Central Avenue, vestigation, looking into whether and 5800 block of West 108th Zeidan had any connection to Place. similar incidents that occurred in A police sergeant responding Justice, Palos Township, Worth to one of the locations at 6:30 and Oak Lawn. Residents with a.m. Friday reported noticing information pertaining to these a car and driver that matched incidents are asked to call the descriptions provided by wit- Chicago Ridge Police Departnesses. In the area of Southwest ment, Investigations Division at Highway and Oak Park Avenue, (708) 425-7831.

Alleged church vandal faces additional charges Nicholas Gutkauskas, 20, of Palos Hills, faces two more charges in addition to the two felonies filed following his arrest on Jan. 13, in connection with broken windows and other vandalism at Sacred Heart Church, 8245 W. 111th St., Palos Hills.

Police said Gutkauskas was arrested while committing more vandalism on church property,

which had been going on for the past two months.

Police said that as a result of further investigation, Gutkauskas was charged last Thursday with two more offenses after it was determined that he had also damaged property owned

by Nicor Gas and the Timbers Condo Association while allegedly causing the other damage.

POLICE REPORTS Chicago Ridge Theft charge

Dominique Lane, 21, of the 9800 block of South Harlem Avenue, Chicago Ridge, was charged with theft at her home at 4:29 p.m. Jan. 17. Police said she had fraudulently obtained Comcast cable service at her home for a few months, costing the company $637.08. She is due in court on Feb. 20.

Unlicensed driving

• Mark Williams, 45, of the 7400 block of West 111th Street, Worth, was charged with driving without a valid license following a traffic stop at 6:55 p.m. Jan. 13 at Southwest Highway and Harlem Avenue. Police said he was also cited for driving without insurance and failure to signal when required. He is due in court on March 20.

• Yban Villagrana-Escamilla, 45, of the 5100 block of West 22nd Street, Cicero, was charged with driving without a valid license at 6:43 p.m. Jan. 12 in the 6400 block of West 111th Street. Police said he was also cited for driving without one headlight. He is due in court on Feb. 20.

Suspended license

• Sierra Sebek, 21, of the 9500 block of South Francisco Avenue, Evergreen Park, was charged with driving with a suspended license following a traffic stop at 11:14 a.m. Jan. 16 in the 11100 block of South Ridgeland Avenue. Police said he was also cited for expired registration. He is due in court on March 20.

• Karma Martin, 31, of the 9500 block of South LaSalle Street, Chicago, was charged with driving with a suspended license following a traffic stop at 9:44 p.m. Jan. 17 in the 10500 block of South Ridgeland Avenue.

Police said she was also cited for driving without headlights. Court information was not available.

Possession of cannabis

Kevin Spiguzza, 20, of the 16400 block of Harold Avenue, Oak Forest, was charged with a felony for unlawful possession of cannabis following his arrest at his home at 1:26 p.m. Jan. 16. Chicago Ridge executed a search warrant of his home following an investigation into alleged drug dealing, and reported finding cannabis and numerous items associated with dealing narcotics. He was held for a bond hearing.

DUI charge

Adam Mohammad, 22, of the 9100 block of South Oketo Avenue, Bridgeview, was charged with driving under the influence of alcohol following a traffic crash at 4:17 a.m. Jan. 14 at 99th Street and Harlem Avenue. Police said he was also cited for driving without insurance and failure to reduce speed to avoid an accident. He is due in court on Feb. 20.

Retail theft

Needal Fattah, 26, of the 9900 block of South Nottingham Avenue, Chicago Ridge, was charged with retail theft at Carson’s in Chicago Ridge Mall at 7:02 p.m.

Jan. 17. Police said he left the store with numerous items of clothing concealed inside a suitcase worth $395.99 in total. He is due in court on March 14.

Illegal drug sales

Chanice Clark, 29, of the 6600 block of South Talman Avenue, Chicago, was charged with unlawful delivery of a controlled substance at 1:30 p.m. Jan. 15, following her arrest in Hometown.

Police from Chicago Ridge and Hometown arrested her after witnessing her deliver heroin to someone else, in the 8900 block of South Pulaski Road. She was held for a bond hearing.

Evergreen Park Drug possession

Alan Hivick, 30, of Worth, was charged with possession of a controlled substance following a traffic stop at 6:15 p.m. Jan. 12 in the 4000 block of Southwest Highway. Police said he was carrying one gram of heroin. He was also cited for possession of drug paraphernalia, following too closely, and driving without insurance.

Police said a cut straw, tin, and three bags, all containing drug residue, as well as a hypodermic needle, were found in the vehicle.

He was held for a bond hearing.

Retail theft

• Taylor Wallace, 18, of Chicago, was charged with retail theft at Walmart, 2500 W. 95th St., at 3:45 p.m. Jan. 12. Police said she took two cellphone screen protectors worth $40.84 in total.

• Ebony Hubbard, 31, of Chicago, was charged with retail theft at Walmart, 2500 W. 95th St., at 2:09 p.m. Jan. 13. Police said she was working as a cashier, and under-rang 22 items, making the total charge 97 cents, rather than their true cost of $197.84 in total.

• Marcus Ashby, 21, of Chicago, was charged with retail theft at Carson’s, 9700 S. Western Ave., at 4 p.m. Jan. 13. Police said he took 13 items of clothing worth $454.72.

• Nova Lynch, 42, of Evergreen Park, was charged with retail theft at Carson’s, 9700 S. Western Ave., at 8:48 p.m. Jan. 13. Police said she was stopped as she tried to leave with a suitcase full of 20 items of clothing worth $536.76 in total.

• Carl Jenkins, 57, of Chicago, was arrested twice in two days on retail theft charges at Menards, 9100 S. Western Ave., at 4:18 p.m. Jan. 16. Police said he took a $229 printer at 4:17 p.m.

Jan. 16, and was caught at 9:06 a.m. the following day, taking three items worth $25.92.

• Two Chicago men were

charged with retail theft at Walmart, 2500 W. 95th St., at 1:31 p.m. Jan. 17. Police said Farris Williams, 38, and Derrick Butler, 25, took a microwave oven worth $54.74 and tried to return it for store credit.

Hickory Hills

Suspended license

• Cherrice L. Russell, 44, of the 9200 block of South Parnell Avenue, Chicago, was charged with driving with a suspended license following a traffic stop at 5:07 p.m. Friday in the 9500 block of South Roberts Road. Police said she was also cited for having an obstructed windshield. She is due in court on March 1.

• Tyrone K. Jones, 30, of the 7800 block of South Kingston Avenue, Chicago, was charged with driving with a suspended license following a traffic stop at 5:23 a.m. Jan. 14 in the 8300 block of West 95th Street. Police said he was also cited for driving a car with expired registration, and was wanted on two outstanding warrants from Kane and Boone counties for failure to appear in court. He is due in court in Bridgeview on the driving charges on Jan. 29.

Unlicensed driving

Gokhan Dede, 36, of the 2100 block of Columbus, Ohio, was charged with driving without a valid license at 8:39 a.m. Saturday in the 8900 block of West 95th Street. Police said he was also cited for using a cellphone while driving. He is due in court on March 20.

Drug possession

Nicolette A. Martinu, 25, of the 9400 block of South 76th Court, Hickory Hills, was charged with a felony for an unlawful acquisition of a controlled substance following her arrest at 11:09 a.m.

Saturday at CVS, 8811 W. 87th St. Police said she was stopped while trying to fill a fraudulent prescription for alprazolam, and admitted getting another fraudulent prescription filled for the same drug the day before. She was also charged with unauthorized possession of fraudulent prescription forms. She was held for a bond hearing.

Outstanding warrant

Michael S. Werschkul, 71, of the 8700 block of South Surrey Park, Palos Hills, was arrested on an outstanding Kendall County warrant following a traffic stop outside his home at 9:31 a.m. Sunday. Police they began following him, and tried to get him to pull over, after discovering the warrant for contempt of court. He is due in court in Yorkville on Feb. 1.

Oak Lawn

Revoked license

Shelby L. Koehler, 21, of Oak Lawn, was charged with driving

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Aggravated assault

David M. Lawryn, 56, was charged with aggravated assault following an altercation outside his apartment building in the 11000 block of South Keating Avenue at 8:27 p.m. Jan. 10.

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Additional officers called to the scene then arrested him as he approached the neighbor. He is due in court on March 7.

Suspended license

Antoine D. Leake, 42, of Chicago, was charged with driving with a suspended license following a traffic stop at 4:26 p.m. Jan. 11 in the 4700 block of West 91st Street. Police said he was also cited for driving a car with expired registration. He is due in court on Feb. 27.

Obstructing ID

Passionea D. Spann, 27, of Steger, was charged with obstructing identification following a traffic stop at 12:38 a.m. Jan. 11 in the 5100 block of West 111th Street.

Police said she initially provided false identification. She was wanted on an outstanding Arlington Heights warrant for fraud, and was also cited for driving without insurance. Spann was transferred to the custody of Arlington Heights police.

DUI charge

Otho Lee Harris, 58, of Chicago, was charged with driving under the influence of alcohol following a traffic stop at 4:17 p.m. Jan. 5 at Southwest Highway and Sproat Avenue. Police said they responded to a 911 caller who said Harris was driving in the wrong lane on Southwest Highway. When police stopped him, his vehicle was dragging a large orange construction barrel it had struck. He registered a .166 blood-alcohol count on a breath test and was also cited for improper lane usage, and driving without insurance. He is due in court on Feb. 20.

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Thursday, January 25, 2018

The Reporter

Tasty treats at Winter Farmers Market

OAK LAWN VILLAGE BOARD MEETING

Nancy O’Connor, of Sweet Pea GlutenFree, her homebased business, speaks with Paul and Barb Marion, of Palos Hills, at the Palos Heights Winter Farmers Market. The couple purchased gluten-free chocolate cake. The market will be held again from 8 a.m. to noon on Saturday, Feb. 17 in the Orchard Room of the Palos Heights Parks and Recreation building, 6601 W. 127th St.

By Dermot Connolly

Some residents speak out as lighted sign is approved

Photo by Anthony Caciopo

ANIMAL WELFARE LEAGUE LOCATION IN CHICAGO RIDGE

Stray dogs not being accepted until ‘kennel cough’ clears up

By Dermot Connolly

The Animal Welfare League location in Chicago Ridge will not be accepting any stray or owner-surrendered dogs until an outbreak of the canine respiratory condition called kennel cough has been cleared up at that location.

A message explaining the temporary limiting of services was posted Saturday on the Facebook page for the AWL location at 10305 Southwest Highway.

“We currently are not accepting stray or owner surrendered dogs. Our dog adoptions are also on hold at this time. We are choosing to be proactive due to a recent illness that presented itself as kennel cough,” said the statement. It went on to say that “further testing” is being done “to confirm or rule out a possible bacterial infection.”

“Unfortunately (the condition) has affected some of the dogs in our shelter. The dogs are being kept in an isolated area and are under the care of our medical staff,” the statement said. “We are hopeful that this will only be for a short duration as we

are taking all precautions to contain the situation.”

The Chicago Ridge location will continue to accept stray/owner surrenders of cats, and cat adoptions are continuing there as well.

Until further notice, the “doggy drive-thru,” a discounted shot clinic for dogs on held from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Tuesdays, and 2 to 4 p.m. Saturdays, will be held in the trailer in the parking lot, weather permitting.

A discounted cat shot clinic day is also expected to be available in early February.

While the Chicago Ridge isolation period is underway, stray or surrendered dogs may be brought to three other locations in Chicago. These are the Animal Welfare League at 6224 S. Wabash Ave., Animal Care and Control at 2741 S. Western Ave., and the Anti-Cruelty Society at 157 W. Grand Ave. Anyone unable to get to those facilities or those with a stray or owner-surrendered dog with a medical emergency may call the Chicago Ridge facility at (708) 636-8586 and talk to somebody at the front desk.

Grace Point Place, an Anthem Memory Care assisted-living facility scheduled due to open this year in Oak Lawn, has sparked some debate between nearby residents and village officials since its inception.

It was no different at the village board meeting on Tuesday, when trustees approved a special-use permit to allow a lighted monument sign to go up on the property at 5701 W. 101st St. Two residents urged the board not to do so when the floor was opened to public comment at the beginning of the meeting.

The Oak Lawn Village Board voted 3-1 in favor of allowing the masonry sign measuring six feet tall and 10 feet wide. It will have a concrete base.

Trustees Tim Desmond (1st) and Alex Olejniczak (2nd) were absent. Only Trustee Bob Streit (3rd) voted against the sign. The Anthem property is located within his district.

Sue Andrews is one of the residents who have been opposed to the location of the Anthem facility since it was first proposed, asserting that it will be out of place in the neighborhood of single-family homes.

“Although the sign may have been reduced 25 percent, it is still not good enough. The signage is for a for-profit commercial building,” she asserted. “They insisted they wanted to be in a residential neighborhood, but why is this sign needed?

“If you have to save face with

“Although the sign may have been reduced 25 percent, it is still not good enough.”

— Oak Lawn resident Sue Andrews Anthem and approve something, approve a sign attached to the building,” Andrews suggested, asserting that Anthem agreed to do that at another location.

Chuck Dinolfo, another nearby resident, also spoke out against the signage. He said that foundation posts that have already been installed where the sign is going up on 101st Street have already exceeded the five-foot variance in the setback limits allowed.

“The foundation posts already extend three more feet. My concern is that it further blocks sight lines (for traffic) and will cause accidents,” said Dinolfo.

Andrews also shared documents with the board members, which she claimed indicated that

Anthem may already be behind on payments for the site.

She said, “This neighborhood spoke loudly, and we spoke clearly,” warning the village officials about the problems with approving the development.

When Streit asked Mayor Sandra Bury to comment on the information, the mayor said she was not comfortable doing so.

Streit was the only board member to comment on the sign issue before the vote was taken.

“I would like to acknowledge the residents who have been coming to these meetings (to address the Anthem issue). It has been a long march. They’ve been here to protect the residential feel of their neighborhoods,” said Streit.

Another continuance for OL woman accused of killing her granddaughter

By Dermot Connolly

The court case of Oak Lawn resident Alfreda Giedrojc, charged with killing her 6-monthold granddaughter in 2013, was continued again following a brief status hearing in the Bridgeview Courthouse last Thursday.

Giedrojc, 66, is expected to have a bench trial, which was originally scheduled to begin last Oct. 24. But the case keeps getting continued for one reason or another.

When she last appeared in court on Dec. 7, the case was continued until last Thursday after assistant public defender David Dunne told Judge Colleen Hyland that forensic psychiatrist Mathew Markos requested more time to complete a report on Giedrojc’s mental health that the attorney has requested. Markos is the director

of Forensic Clinical Services for Cook County Circuit Court.

However, when Dunne appeared with his client last Thursday, Hyland told him that the mental health report was completed but had not been brought to court. Assistant State’s Attorney Michael Deno, who is prosecuting the case, also was not there.

Therefore, the two sides agreed to continue the case until March 7. Dunne said afterward that he had no more information that what the judge provided.

An interpreter quietly explained the decision to Giedrojc, who speaks Polish. No family members were in the courtroom to see her. She has been in Cook County Jail since Oct. 6, 2013, when she was charged with first-degree murder for allegedly killing her 6-month-old

granddaughter, Vivian Summers.

She is charged with first-degree murder. The baby, her daughter’s child, had been left in her care that day, at her home in the 6600 block of West 91st Street.

According to published reports following the incident, Giedrojc’s son-in-law, Joel Summers, of Bolingbrook, had dropped Vivian off that morning at her grandparents’ home before going across the street with his father-in-law to help a neighbor with a rehab project.

At previous hearings, prosecutors outlined the case, alleging that Giedrojc hit the infant in the head with a sledgehammer after the two men left the house. They said she moved the baby from a couch to the floor. She then allegedly retrieved a sledgehammer that she had placed in her closet the night before, and hit the victim

repeatedly in the head and body with it. She then went into the kitchen to get the knife used to slit her throat.

When the infant wouldn’t stop moving, prosecutors said Giedrojc cut her throat with a kitchen knife.

Police were called to the scene by another family member who came upon the gruesome scene.

The court case has been going on so long that Giedrojc’s original public defender retired.

She reportedly admitted to the murder in a taped confession to Oak Lawn police, and has been undergoing psychological evaluations while awaiting trial.

In 2014, she was found to be unfit to stand trial. But a Cook County judge ruled in 2015 that she was fit to face first-degree murder charges after receiving treatment for a major depressive disorder.

Beverly Theatre Guild to serve up ‘Superior Donuts’ in Feburary The Beverly Theatre Guild will present Tracy Letts’ Chicago play, “Superior Donuts” at the Morgan Park Academy Arts Center, 2153 W. 111th St., Chicago.

Performances will be held at 8 p.m. Friday, Feb. 16 and Saturday, Feb. 17. Another performance will be held at 2 p.m.

Sunday, Feb. 18. Tickets are $21 and can be obtained at www.beverlytheatreguild. org. The cast of Beverly Theatre Guild’s production of “Superior Donuts” pose before the performances during a photo shoot at the Beverly Bakery and Café.

Taking part in the production are (back row, from left) Keith Rumbaugh, Andre Turner, (front row, from left) Matt Walsh, Ken Schaefer, Scott Lynch-Giddings, Karen VanDevelde, Angelo Greene, Cal Kennedy and Cathy Plumb.

Photo by George Miller

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Our Neighborhood

4 The Reporter

Thursday, January 25, 2018

Families celebrate National Popcorn Day at Evergreen Park Library Parents and their children celebrated National Popcorn Day by taking part in a variety of activities on Friday at the Evergreen Park Library, 9400 S. Troy.

The kids made popcorn feeders on their own and with the assistance of members of the Ev-

ergreen Park Library. National Popcorn Day is actually celebrated each year on Jan. 19.

Popcorn can be sweet or savory, carmelized, buttered or plain, molded into a candied ball or tossed with nuts and chocolate.

Popcorn started becoming popular in the United

States in the middle 1800s. It wasn’t until Charles Cretors, a candy-store owner, developed a machine for popping corn with steam that the treat became more abundantly poppable. By 1900, Cretors had horse-drawn popcorn wagons going through the streets of Chicago.

Zariyah Henigan, 5, of Evergreen Park, and her sister, Zaelynn, 9, display the popcorn bird feeders they made in celebration of National Popcorn Day. Destiny Williams, 8, of Chicago, is happy with the popcorn bird feeder she made at the Evergreen Park Public Library on Friday in honor of National Popcorn Day.

Photos by Kelly White

The kids on hand at the Evergreen Park Library last Friday learned some of the history of popcorn while taking part in making the popcorn feeders. Some of the parents also helped out their children making the feeders.

Alex Tapia, 9, works hard to create the perfect popcorn bird feeder in recognition of National Popcorn Day.

PALOS HILLS CITY COUNCIL MEETING

Palos Hills to see higher water bills, but increases will halt

By Michael Gilbert

Palos Hills residents will notice a slight increase in the cost of water when they open their first bill of 2018, but city officials were pleased to report the multidollar increases that greeted residents for the better part of the last half decade were not returning.

Ald. Marty Kleefisch (1st Ward) informed the council and a handful of citizens present at the meeting last Thursday the new water rate that went into effect at the start of the year is $9.97 per 1,000 gallons. This represents a 1.5 percent or 15 cents hike from the $9.82 homeowners were charged in 2017, he said.

Palos Hills has a 4,000 gallon minimum for its water bill meaning $39.88 is the lowest amount a homeowner can be charged for water. There is no rate increase for water usage over 4,000 gallons – it

remains at $9.97 per 1,000 gallons.

The minimum monthly water bill this year will be $64.30 when factoring in the $11.50 charge for sanitary sewer service and $12.92 charge for general capital improvements, which are both line items on the bill. The sanitary sewer service and general capital improvement charges were not increased from 2017, city officials said.

Palos Hills is one of 13 southwest suburbs that receives its water from Chicago via Oak Lawn. As those two municipalities are raising their water rates in 2018, Palos Hills had no option but to hike its bill, Kleefisch said.

“There was nothing we could do,” Kleefisch said. “(Chicago and Oak Lawn) passed the rate increase along to us.

Thankfully, the average rate increase is actually going down.”

Kleefisch was referring to a seven-

year stretch from 2011 to 2017 during which the average annual increase was $2.50. This was largely done to offset the cost of multi-million dollar improvement projects to both the Oak Lawn and Chicago water system. Mayor Gerald Bennett said he was “hopeful” annual increases moving forward would be on a cost-of-living basis.

The increase passed along to Palos Hills homeowners this year will cover the cost of water, delivery, maintenance and operation of the city’s water system, Kleefisch said.

The minimum water bill last year was $63.70, while residents paid $60.35 in 2016 and $58.57 in 2015.

Greens fee increases

In other news, Ald. Ricky Moore (4th Ward) told the council the flat greens fee for the city’s municipal golf course

will increase to $11 this year.

Prior to the start of the 2016 season, the council made the decision to do away with the structured greens rate fee that charged golfers as much as $17 during peak hours and instead establish a $10 fee across the board. The reduced green rate was a major success as the city collected $299,000 in revenue during the 2016 season. There were actually more golfers playing the course this past year than in 2016, but Moore said room and golf cart rentals as well as beer and food sales were down and the course generated approximately $30,000 less in revenue.

Despite the 10 percent increase, Moore said he does not believe the $11 rate is “unreasonable.”

“Our motto is still that we have the most reasonable golf in the southwest suburbs,” Moore said. “I believe we have the best golf at the best price. I don’t

know what Water’s Edge (Golf Course in Worth) and other municipal golf courses are charging, but I can almost guarantee you that without doing the research it’s more than $11.

“Going up a buck buys us a little bit of insurance in case (room and cart rentals and food sales don’t go up). We’re trying to be as municipal friendly as we can, but at the same time we are a business and need to make money.”

Any veteran of the United States military can play the course at a reduced rate of $10, Moore said.

“We are trying to become known as the veterans’ friendly golf course,” said Moore, who served in the Navy.

The golf course is located at 7301 W. 105th St. It boasts a pair of par 5 holes, three par 3s and four par 4s. The champion tees offer golfers more than 2,800 yards of course.

EP enters fiscal year with balanced budget

By Sharon L. Filkins The Village of Evergreen Park approved an ordinance at its Jan. 16 board meeting, providing for an appropriation for corporate purposes for its fiscal year beginning Nov. 1, 2017 and ending Oct. 31, 2018. The ordinance indicates that the village is entering its fiscal year with a balanced budget.

The total budget is $36,401,040.

Village Treasurer John Sawyers presented the budget in a pub-

lic hearing conducted prior to the Jan. 2 board meeting. He explained that the amount budgeted for the general fund is $26,065,024, with a surplus of $22,306. The water management fund is $7,127,291 with a water surplus of $11,709, and the 95th Street TIF Fund is $3,208,725.

Mayor James Sexton commended Sawyers and the village staff for their hard work on the budget and for the conservative approach of all department heads.

Also approved were real estate contracts for the purchase of two properties; 3443 ½ W. Clark Drive and 3240 W.98th St. The costs of the properties were $250,000 and $300,000, respectively.

Sexton said the structures on the properties will be demolished and the land will be used for parking for the proposed new community center on Clark Drive.

The board also approved a request from Virginia Wrobel on behalf of the Senior Citizen Council to use Yukich Field on Saturday, May 5 for the ninth annual Memories to Go event.

Sexton inadvertently stated the start date as March 5 and then corrected himself. Laughing, Sexton said, “I was just giving you a head start as this event is the biggest block party/garage sale on the South Side.”

A request from public works to purchase a 2018 F-550 truck for $31,808 was approved. The purchase is a budgeted item.

A payment for design of the proposed Community Center, in the amount of $135, 322, was approved for Craig Padalak Architects.

Business certificates were approved for Family Waterproofing Solutions at 3326-3328 W. 95th St. (basement waterproofing services) and State Bank of Texas (financial institution-loan administration office) at 9730 S. Western Ave., Suite 418.

Holy Cross Church Launching Friday, January 26th

OPA!

FISH FRY Every Friday 4pm - 8pm FRIDAYS Dine In or Carry Out!

Holy Cross Greek Orthodox Church 7560 S. Archer | Justice, IL | 708.594.2040

Compiled by Joe Boyle

News and events from our archives • 50 years ago Worth Village Hall, first responders were without phone service From the Jan. 25, 1968 issue:

The story: For six hours on Jan. 15, the Worth Village Hall, police station and fire departments could not communicate by phone because of downed power and telephone lines.

A forklift driver for the Superior Dry Wall Company mistakenly ripped into phone cables at 10:15 a.m. and total services were not restored until about 4:30 p.m., Worth Police Chief Lee Becatti said. Since the Worth Police Department is a dispatching center for the emergency services of Palos Park, Palos Heights and Palos Hills, possible tragedy could have resulted from the communications break. But Bud Jaderholm, of Illinois Bell Telephone, acted quickly and within 10 minutes had made arrangements to reroute all incoming calls to Becatti’s home residence. The emergency system worked.

The quote: “This guy (Jaderholm) is terrific,” Becatti said.

• 25 years ago Conflicting festivals cause problems for Hickory Hills From the Jan 21, 1992 issue:

The story: Hickory Hills Mayor Dan Riley calmed a brewing storm when he worked on a compromise between to summer fundraising organizers who clashed over scheduling.

While the Hickory Hills Park District and Chamber of Commerce had scheduled the 1993 Street Fair for Sunday, June 27, North Palos School District 117’s Better Education Foundation had scheduled its carnival fundraiser for June 23 through June 27. Park district representative Cynthia Neel said the carnival would take away from the street fair. Ald. Kerry Erber suggested that two fundraisers could join forces. Riley said that would not be a good idea, especially if it rains.

The quote: “Sunday is our last day to try and raise money for the district,” Riley said. “If we start it later and it rains, I don’t think we will make much of a profit.”

• 10 years ago Oak Lawn encourages businesses to remove snow from property From the Jan. 24, 2008 issue: The story: Prompted by Monday’s snowfall, the Oak Lawn Village Board on Tuesday discussed issues concerning snow removal.

Trustees voted unanimously to approve, after numerous revisions, requiring business owners to put forth their best efforts to remove snow within a reasonable time frame after a snowfall.

A warning would first be issued and repeat offenders would be subjected to fines between $100 and $750. Oak Lawn Trustees Steve Rosenbaum and Bob Streit believed time constraints would make it to hard to determine and enforce consistently. Trustee Jerry Hurckes said he supported the amended ordinance, but not the fines.

The quote: “Let’s inform the public and see what happens,” said Village Manager Larry Deetjen. “If 15 to 20 percent of people comply, it would be an improvement.”

Thursday, January 25, 2018

The Reporter

WHATIZIT?

5

German culture celebrated at Shepard with food and music

By Kelly White

Photo by Joe Boyle

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

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

We had three readers who came up with the correct answer to last week’s photo quiz. Palos Heights resident Valerie Kuhl was the first to respond and she knew it was St. Alexander School, 7025 W. 126th St., Palos Heights. Ron Wagenhofer, of Palos Park, also knew it was St. Alexander School. Oak Lawn resident Steve Rosenbaum also knew it was St. Alexander School, which he pointed out is the “home of the Raiders.”

St. Alexander was founded in June of 1959 with the appointment of the Rev. Joseph Hanton by Archbishop Albert Cardinal Meyer. Hanton selected the name St. Alexander in honor of the 3rd century pope and his own deceased father and brother who shared the same name.

SUDOKU

Shepard High School students welcomed German heritage, delicious food and culture this weekend at the school’s annual German festival.

Taking place since 1985, “A Little Bit of Germany” was held on Saturday night at the school, 13049 S. Ridgeland Ave., Palos Heights.

“I like this event a lot because it gives me a glimpse into the German culture,” said Brooke Pieroth, 17, of Crestwood.

The event, which was led by Shepard German teacher Jennifer Fischer and students from her classes, was open to the public and was held in the school’s cafeteria. Students were responsible for the setting up, taking down and food service during the event.

“My favorite part of ‘A Little Bit of Germany’ is seeing how happy the senior citizens are to be there,” Fischer said. “So many people really have a great time and I love seeing all the smiles and happy faces. It is a great time.

I also like to see former students and my own personal friends from the Chicagoland German community.”

She has been organizing the event at Shepard for the past 10 years.

For a donation of $10 per adult and $5 per child under the age of 12, all of the 400 attendees were able to enjoy a German feast of bratwurst, sauerkraut, German potato salad, rye bread and butter, coffee, water, cider, and with the option of soda and root beer.

Pretzels and baked goods were also available.

For musical entertainment, the German band Paloma returned again, providing German folkloric songs.

“The music is fun to sing along to and to raise your glass of root beer to,” said Reiner Mahler, 18, of Worth.

Fischer and her students had the option to dress in German costumes to fit into the festive roll for the evening.

“I like wearing the Lederhosen,” said Alex

Photos by Kelly White Faith Jeeninga (from left), 18; Elizabeth Jeeninga, 16, and Kaitlyn Shelton, 17, took part in Shepard High School’s The Spindler brothers (from left), Eric, 15, “A Little Bit of Germany” event, which took place at the and Alex, 17, of Palos Heights, served food at the “A Little Bit of Germany” event. school in Palos Heights on Saturday evening.

Spindler, 17, of Palos Heights. “It’s fun and everyone really gets into the whole event.”

“This is our big fundraiser for our German Exchange Program,” Fischer said.

For more than three decades through a student exchange program with Shepard and Johann-Wolfgang-von-Goethe-Gymnasium in Germany, students have lived together, toured the other’s nation, attended sporting and cultural events, and sampled cuisine and built friendships through the German Exchange Program. The high schools rotate years visiting each other each year for three weeks, staying with host families from the school.

German students will be visiting the school and staying with Shepard families in 2019 and a group of Shepard students, who are

enrolled in German language classes, will be traveling to Germany in 2020, according to Fischer.

Last year, with more than 400 tickets sold, Shepard students raised $5,000 towards their trip. The same amount of tickets sold quickly again this year and funds are expected to be around the same, Fischer said.

“This event is so successful because of word of mouth,” Fischer said. “Students and parents who help me work so hard to make this event so great for everyone.”

Fischer, herself, lived in Germany from 1993 to 1997 near Bamberg, Germany. She enjoys Shepard’s German Exchange Program because she is able to visit Germany much more frequently than she would otherwise.

SXU ranks 4th among Illinois colleges for best ROI for underserved students

St. Xavier University ranked fourth in Illinois among colleges and universities that are considered the best investments for underserved students, according to a new study, “Cornerstones of Student Success: Institutions Yielding

Answers on Page 7

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

High Return on Investment for Underserved Students,” recently released by the Illinois Education Research Council (IERC).

“Our analysis of Illinois fouryear postsecondary institutions highlights those institutions which

CHICAGO RIDGE Daddy Daughter Date Night Dance will be held

Chicago Ridge Park District sponsors trip to Shedd Aquarium

DOWN 1. Skater Lipinksi 2. Data 3. Single step 4. Destroyed financially 5. Fail to interpret correctly 6. Fava d’__: tree found in Brazil 7. Vehicle 8. Limited 9. Old English 10. Aussie golfer Norman 11. Job 12. Loose-fitting undergarments 13. Protected by balancing 14. Give up 17. Fifth note of a major scale 22. Extravagantly bright 23. Takes dictation 24. 19th letter of Greek alphabet 25. Rounded knob (biology) 26. French philosopher Pierre 28. Mothers 29. Dardic ethnic group 32. Supports the rudder 36. An ugly evil-looking old woman 38. Of a fasting time 40. Filled with passengers 43. Below the ribs and above the hips 44. Binary-coded decimal 45. 51 is a famous one 46. Goes into a funk 51. Chief O’Hara actor 54. Videocassette recorder 55. Scored perfectly 56. Type of tree 57. __ Spumante (Italian wine) 58. Popular commercial “pet” 59. Supreme god of Ancient Egyptians 60. Room in a home 62. __ and behold Answers on Page 7

universities that primarily grant bachelor’s degrees were included in the study. In total, 55 four-year colleges and universities were included. The complete report can be found at: https://goo.gl/ BCLnov.

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

Daddy Daughter Date Night Dance will be held from 6:30 to 10 p.m. Friday, Feb. 9 at the Frontier Park Fieldhouse, 9807 S. Sayre Ave., Chicago Ridge. The event will include prizes, dinner, entertainment and dancing.

The fee is $25 per couple for residents and $40 per couple for non-residents. Each additional girl will be $8. More information can be obtained by calling (708) 636-4900 or visit www.chicagoridgeparks.com.

ACROSS 1. Measurement (abbr.)

4. Returned material authorization (abbr.)

7. Sorting 12. Attribute 15. Poked holes in 16. Angers 18. Doc 19. MLB journeyman pitcher Dillon 20. Not don’t 21. Snubs someone 24. Where kids bathe 27. One might be in distress 30. Chair 31. Music industry honors (abbr.)

33. Dash 34. Owed 35. Caucasian language 37. One thousand (Span.)

39. Musical style drum and bass 41. Evergreen trees native to warm climates 42. Begin __: start fresh 44. Marshy outlets 47. A chicken lays one 48. Yemen’s largest city 49. Conversion rate 50. Single Lens Reflex 52. Atlanta rapper 53. Reduce the importance of 56. Faces of buildings 61. Something achieved 63. Distribute again 64. Tooth caregiver 65. 007’s creator

fostered degree completion and job success with less debt for underrepresented minority students, first-generation students and low income students,” stated report authors Janet Holt and Daniel Duffy.

Illinois four-year colleges and

Preschool to be held at Cynthia Neal Center

A preschool program will be offered at the Cynthia Neal Center, 8047 W. 91st Place, Hickory Hills. Classes are offered from 8:45 to 11:45 a.m. or 12:15 to 3:15 p.m. daily with an option for five days a week, three days a week or two days a week. For more information about the program and the fees, call (708) 598-1233.

OAK LAWN

Blessing young children at Pilgrim Faith Church

The Chicago Ridge Park District is sponsoring a bus trip to the Shedd Aquarium on Saturday, Jan. 27 from the Freedom Activity Center, 6252 W. Birmingham Ave., Chicago Ridge. The bus will depart the center at 9:30 a.m. and is scheduled to return at 4 p.m. The registration fee is $7 for residents and $12 for non-residents. Guests will have an opportunity to see otters, an octopus, whales, penguins, sea jellies and dolphins. More information can be found at www.chicagoridgeparks.com.

A blessing for children under the age of 5 will be given at the annual Candlemas celebration at the 9:30 a.m. worship service Sunday, Jan. 28 at Pilgrim Faith United Church of Christ, 9411 S. 51st Ave., Oak Lawn. All young children and their parents are invited to this service. They do not have to be members of Pilgrim Faith. Grandparents whose grandchildren are unable to be present will also be invited to light a candle. Anyone who would like their child to be included may contact the church at (708) 422-4200 or office@pilgrimfaith.org.

EVERGREEN PARK

Fish Fry Fridays will be served at Stony Creek

Evergreen Park Police FOP to hold fish and sports show

The Evergreen Park Fraternal Order of Police Lodge No. 27 will hold a fish and sports show from 7 to 11 p.m. Friday, March 2 at 115 Bourbon Street, 3359 W. 115th St., Merrionette Park. A donation of $20 per person is being asked. Advance tickets can be purchased at the front desk of the Evergreen Park Police Department. The price will include a full buffet, draft beer, wine and pop, raffles, prizes, guest speakers and sporting vendors.

Oven stew meal to be served at First United Methodist Church

An oven stew meal will be provided from 5 to 7 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 3 at the First United Methodist Church, 9358 S. Homan Ave., Evergreen Park. Along with the oven stew, a salad, rolls, drinks and dessert will be served.

Tickets are $10 for individuals and $25 for a family of three or four.

HICKORY HILLS

Hickory Hills Park District offers morning school program

The Hickory Hills Park District is holding a morning school program on full and half days of School District 117 at the Krueger Park Recreation Center, 9100 S. 88th Ave. This program will be held before school begins for parents who have their children enrolled at Glen Oaks, Sorrick, Dorn or Oak Ridge schools. The program will be offered from 7 to 8:45 a.m. Monday through Friday.

Children will be given a morning snack and park staff will help them prepare for school each day. Students will be escorted to Glen Oaks Elementary School by a park supervisor or students will be picked up by a school bus each morning.

Transportation arrangements must be made with the school district prior to enrollment.

For more information or general questions about fees, call (708) 599-7337.

Fish fry meals will be offered on Fridays from Feb. 9 through March 30 at the Oak Lawn Park District’s Stony Creek Restaurant and Banquet Facility, 5850 W. 103rd St. Open seating is from 3 to 8 p.m. The allyou-care-to-eat menu price includes freshly made creamy clam chowder, the Stony Creek garden salad, homemade coleslaw, white fish and beer battered cod, homemade hushpuppies, and baked potato.

The cost is $13.95 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.

Pilgrim Faith Church hosts Family Game Night

A Family Game Night will be held beginning at 6 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 27 at Pilgrim Faith United Church of Christ, 9411 S. 51st Ave., Oak Lawn. Participants can enjoy a favorite board or card games along with snacks.

Guests are invited to bring some games and friends to enjoy. The church is handicapped accessible. Enter through the white door from the parking lot.

Oak Lawn film group to view, discuss ‘Stop Making Sense’

CineVerse, the Oak Lawn Park District’s weekly film discussion group open to anyone age 17 and older, will screen and discuss the 1984 movie “Stop Making Sense” from 7 to 10 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 31 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.

Membership sale is offered at Oak Lawn Park District facilities

Residents can purchase the fitness membership from Feb. 8 through Feb. 11 at several Oak Lawn Park District facilities. Applicants

can save 40 percent off new resident and combo memberships. Membership sale rates are $90 for new residents and $80 for senior residents. Members will have access to the Oak Lawn Community Pavilion, 9401 S. Oak Park Ave., and the Racquet Club and Recreation Center facility, 10444 S. Central Ave. Some exclusions may apply. For more information, call (708) 857-2420.

Oak Lawn Park District Teen Theatre presents ‘Legally Blonde’

“Legally Blonde” is the next Oak Lawn Park Teen Show Theatre production, which will be held in February at the Oak View Center, 4625 W. 110th St., Oak Lawn.

Tickets, which are $17, are still available for the production. The performances will be held at 7:30 p.m. Fridays, Feb. 9 and Feb. 16, and 7:30 p.m. Saturdays, Feb. 10 and Feb. 17. Performances will also be held at 3 p.m. Sundays, Feb. 11 and Feb. 18. Tickets are available at the Oak View Center or by calling (708) 857-2200. They can also be obtained online at www.showtix4u.

PALOS HILLS

Skate Under Stars is rescheduled at Glacier Park

The City of Palos Hills Resource and Recreation Department has rescheduled their Skate Under the Stars event from 7 to 8:30 p.m.

Friday, Jan. 26 at Glacier Park, 101st Street and 78th Avenue, Palos Hills. Residents should call ahead of time at (708) 430-4500 to check on ice conditions.

Mother/Son Dance to be held at Palos Hills Community Center

The Palos Hills Resource and Recreation Department will be hosting a Mother/Son Dance from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Friday, Feb. 9 at the Community Center, 8455 W. 103rd St., Palos Hills. The event includes a light dinner (pizza), dancing, souvenir and visit from a popular superhero. The cost is $30 per couple. For further information, contact the City of Palos Hills Resource and Recreation Department, (708) 430-4500.

Stagg HS Music Boosters seek crafters for art show

The Stagg High School Music Boosters organization is accepting applications from crafters and artists for the Art for the Season show, which scheduled for Saturday, March 17 and Sunday, March 18 at the high school, 8015 W. 111th St., Palos Hills. The registration fee is $85 per square feet booth space for the two-day run of the show. For more information or to receive an application, call (708) 9747520, (708) 361-8298 or go to staggbands.org.

WORTH

Marrs-Meyer AL Post to host Super Bowl party

Members of the Marrs-Meyer American Legion Post 991 will hold a Super Bowl party on Sunday, Feb. 4 at the post, 11001 S. Depot St., Worth. Residents and members need to sign up on the sheet that can be found on the bulletin board to attend the party that goes from the kickoff to the end of the game.

Domestic bottled beer and food is included in the entry fee. The fee is $25 per person or $15 a person for food only.

6 The Reporter

THE

COMMENTARY

Thursday, January 25, 2018

REPORTER

An Independent Newspaper Published Weekly Founded March 16, 1960

Ray Hanania

Senator Trotter will be missed A

ssistant Illinois Senate Majority Leader Donne Trotter (DChicago) has retired after almost 30 years in the General Assembly.

Sen. Trotter has been talking about retiring for years, but he has repeatedly been convinced to stick around a while longer.

This time, the entreaties fell on deaf ears. He’s done, and he told me he wants to enjoy his retirement while he’s still able.

It’s safe to say that Leader Trotter has created dozens of invaluable state programs on healthcare and social services over the decades.

He was the Senate Democrats’ top point person on appropriations for years, and that “budgeteer” status gave him the access and the power to help shape the government in incremental measures with every new state budget.

His contributions cannot be minimized.

From KidCare, to things like clean needle exchanges, mental health programs, HIV programs — pretty much anything whatsoever to do with improving the health of people in Illinois — Trotter (who has a master’s degree in Health Policy of Jurisprudence from Loyola Law School and was an administrator at Cook Rich County Hospital) has been part of it.

Trotter is also well known for his mentorMiller ship of young African-Americans. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve watched him stop a conversation among older people to make sure a young black person’s voice was heard.

Rep. Elgie Sims (D-Chicago) is probably one of his most successful mentorships. Sims served on the Senate appropriations staff under Trotter, then became the caucus’ budget director and, after law school, became a state Representative who is now chairman of the House Judiciary Criminal Law Committee.

Sen. Trotter got his political start with U.S. Rep. Ralph Metcalfe’s 1974 campaign. Later, Trotter helped register tens of thousands of voters for Harold Washington’s 1983 mayoral campaign.

The late Chicago political expert Paul Green used to tell the story about how Mayor Washington was duly impressed when only two voters in Trotter’s assigned precinct cast their ballots for one of the other mayoral candidates.

Trotter thought his big move to the Illinois General Assembly would happen in 1986, when then-Rep. Carol Moseley-Braun decided to run for lieutenant governor. He backed out of the race when the future U.S. Senator decided not to run statewide.

Instead, Trotter wound up being elected to the House in 1988, after Moseley-Braun was elected Cook County Recorder of Deeds.

The new legislative district map in 1991 forced him to run for the Senate the following year, where he has served ever since.

Trotter turned out to be far more suited to the Senate (he often chafed under House Speaker Michael J. Madigan’s rule) and quickly became an indispensable member of Senate Democratic Leader Emil Jones’ team. When Jones was elected Senate President, Trotter’s power increased exponentially.

It’s no secret that Sen. Trotter and I are longtime friends. I first met him in 1990, not long after I started writing about Illinois politics.

I don’t have a lot of “real” friends in this business because it can cause too many problems. Politicians inevitably do stupid things, so being their friend can put you in the middle of sticky situations.

I’ve made an exception for Trotter because, frankly, he’s one of the most interesting people I’ve ever known in my life. Yeah, he’s made his share of mistakes, some bigger than others. But he’s owned up to all of them; and to my mind, that’s what really matters.

He has a biting sense of humor powerful enough to slay a man. He’s well read with a broad knowledge and appreciation of music, and he loves the experience of travel. Except for the whole politician thing, he’s the type of person I like to hang with. He’s also helped me broaden my own horizons by showing me places on Chicago’s South and West sides that I wouldn’t usually just stroll into as a white guy from Kankakee.

The man is always trying to learn something new, which is something I try to do on a daily basis, so I greatly appreciate that about him.

I thought it was a little weird when Trotter took control of the legislative talks on state craft-beer regulations, but he mastered the subject matter and ably led the meetings. He wanted to try tackling a topic outside of his usual wheelhouse and he succeeded.

To me, good legislators (and good people) are always trying to learn new things and move outside their comfort zones. Sen. Trotter has been a darned good legislator and I think he’s a good person. I’m going to miss him.

Rich Miller also publishes Capitol Fax, a daily political newsletter, and CapitolFax.com.

The mad, mad mad world of Tomasulo’s ‘Man of the People’

GUEST COMMENTARY

‘Weakening’ libel laws is not the right tactic — for anyone

By Gene Policinski Making it easier to sue people for libel is not a good idea — for our democracy in general, and even for President Trump and a few of his personal lawyers, in particular.

Trump has railed against existing legal protections, most recently following the publication of journalist Michael Wolff’s searing book “Fire and Fury: Inside the Trump White House.” On Wednesday, Trump said he will take a “strong look” at the country’s libel laws because they are a “sham and a disgrace and do not represent American values and American fairness.”

Just hours earlier, Trump’s personal attorney Michael Cohen sued BuzzFeed Inc. and consulting firm Fusion GPS for defamation, claiming they had made unproven or erroneous allegations about him in a controversial “Russia dossier” compiled by Fusion and later published by BuzzFeed.

The laws that Trump wants to tinker with are rooted in a 1964 U.S. Supreme Court decision, New York Times v. Sullivan, which protects critics of public officials, even if their offending speech contains error — as did the newspaper advertisement at the heart of that legal dispute.

Most certainly that decision and others that followed it are not license to fabricate and defame without concern. The Times v.

Sullivan decision stakes out conditions in which defamatory material is not protected: Material disseminated with “malicious intent” — that is, with the knowledge it is false — or with reckless disregard of whether it was false or not.

But absent those circumstances, the Court said, the need for a democracy to have an “uninhibited, robust and wide open” discussion on matters of public interest requires that we accept that those discussions likely will contain “vehement, caustic and sometimes unpleasantly sharp attacks on government and public officials.”

“I consider (the book) a work of fiction,” Trump told reporters on Jan. 6, at a meeting at Camp David, Md. “The libel laws are very weak in this country. If they were strong, it would be very helpful. You wouldn’t have things like that happen where you can say whatever comes to your head.”

Actually, the very point of the First Amendment’s protection for free speech and a free press is that we get to say “whatever” comes into our heads, with very few restraints, without fear of being prevented or punished by the government.

The Sullivan standard accepts inadvertent error in the effort to inform citizens on

matters of public interest.

In response to Cohen’s lawsuit, a spokesman for BuzzFeed said that “The dossier is, and continues to be, the subject of active investigations by Congress and intelligence agencies. It was presented to two successive presidents, and has been described in detail by news outlets around the world. Its interest to the public is obvious.” The spokesman added, “This is not the first time Trump’s personal lawyer has attacked the free press, and we look forward to defending our First Amendment rights in court.”

Cohen relies, ironically, on the very standard in Sullivan that Trump would alter or remove: That the material in the dossier was published with knowledge that it was false.

As has been noted by many experts following Trump’s multiple threats to change libel law, it isn’t possible to make changes with the stroke of a presidential pen, or even an act of Congress. Libel laws are state laws, so changes would have to take place in 51 sets of statutes (including Washington, D.C.), through a Supreme Court decision, or through constitutional changes. Neither is likely.

The best tactic in defending Trump against the criticism in Wolff’s book or the allegations in the Fusion dossier may well be to use the power already in the hands of Trump and his cohorts: The power public officials have to respond effectively to negative and damaging comments (which is so much more than that of non-celebrities that in Times v. Sullivan public officials — and later all public figures — were granted less protection against such comments).

Clearly, Trump and his legal representatives have plenty of means to counter virtually any allegation, including Tweet storms, via sympathetic news outlets, and from the daily platform of the White House briefing room.

In other words, Trump can use the “Bully Pulpit” that is the White House — and, if you will, the “Bully Tweets” that he relies on so much. He shouldn’t try to silence the news media for reporting what the public needs to know, but instead encourage journalists to report the claims on all sides, including his own.

Trump needs to join in the “uninhibited, robust and wide open” discussion that is democracy’s lifeblood, rather than trying to silence others in this ongoing national conversation.

Gene Policinski is president and chief operating officer of the Newseum Institute. He can be reached at gpolicinski@newseum.org, or follow him on Twitter at @genefac.

Trump’s first-year economic record impressive

By Dr. Mark Hendrickson

In an article written 10 days after President Donald Trump’s election victory, I commented on the drop in the price of gold, which was mirrored by a spike in the dollar index. I surmised that the markets were signaling optimism about our country’s prospects in a Trump presidency.

In retrospect, we can see that the dollar index peaked and the price of gold bottomed just one month later, even before Trump took the oath of office.

What does all this mean? I would interpret the post-election spike in the dollar and fall in gold as reflex reactions signifying relief that Hillary Clinton was not going to be president. However, after that initial euphoria wore off, sober investors around the world began to sense that a President Trump, handicapped by a narrow and fractured Republican majority in Congress and Trump’s own bull-in-the-china-shop style, might not be able to accomplish much.

Assessing America’s economic situation in January 2018, Trump has had a successful first year. As I wrote a decade ago, presidents can’t just march into office, flip a switch, and change long-established trends.

Sometimes their success or failure is baked

into the cake by conditions they inherit. That is why, although President Barack Obama’s wrongheaded economic policies produced a shockingly weak economic performance, he didn’t deserve all of the blame. The trend toward slower economic growth was in place long before Obama became president.

What has Trump done to help our economy grow? Initially, it was simply the change in tone and attitude between the pro-business Trump and his anti-business predecessor. Under the ideologically anti-capitalist Obama, business lived in fear and anxiety, never knowing when Team Obama would launch its next anti-business initiative.

The president has kept his campaign promise to reduce stifling and costly overregulation. After signing an executive order last January directing federal agencies to rescind two regulations for each new one promulgated, the surprise was to the upside: The Trump Administration actually revoked or scaled back 67 regulations and only added three.

Dr. Mark W. Hendrickson is an adjunct faculty member, economist, and fellow for economic and social policy with The Center for Vision & Values at Grove City College in Grove City, Pa.

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GN’s award-winning sports announcer and very own standup comedian Pat Tomasulo launched his new weekly comedy show this weekend, “Man of the People,” and it’s filled with belly laughs and a lot of original humor, a rarity in late night talk shows.

Tomasulo joined WGN’s morning news and entertainment team in 2005, absorbing the comedic talents of WGN’s Morning News anchors and comics themselves, Larry Potash and Robin Baumgarten.

It’s not surprising that he has launched his own show, “Man of the People,” on WGN TV. The broadcast is on at 10 p.m. on Saturdays with a studio audience.

Tomasulo points this out in his funny bits, reviving the in-studio audience action that made WGN so famous for more than four decades, ending when Bozo’s Circus was cancelled in 2001.

What aging, addled and Alzheimer-stricken Baby Boomer hasn’t yearned for that kind of refreshing humor, while grouping for a freshly wrapped absorbent Fitrights or Depends underwear?

Fitrights? Late nights? Who remembers differences while piling through reams of pages from the latest updates on Medicare and Social Security regulations and forms?

WGN’s Mornings with Potash and Baumgarten have given news reporting a very important infusion of badly needed humor, making it one of the country’s most entertaining and fun-to-watch news broadcasts in America. Tomasulo suckled on years of Potash and Baumgarten puns and today fits into that equation like a hot dog without ketchup.

Tomasulo’s tenure at WGN has been a rehearsal for his own show, ever since joining Potash and Baumgarten, who are always encouraging the young grad from the College of New Jersey. Any school of higher learning named after the state that gave us “Jersey Shore,” “JWoww,” and “Vinny and Snooki” has to offer the promise of true everyday humor embedded deep in the bowels of American comedy.

I love the show. I’m tired of all the political nastiness that has swallowed late night and weekend comedy. It doesn’t take much talent to bash President Donald Trump into worn-out jokes and one-liners. Stephen Colbert is the worst. At Least Jimmy Kimmel adds a personal sympathetic tear-jerker every once in a while to break up to the monotony of Trump bashing.

Tomasulo’s humor is original and funny. He does a great comedic monologue called “The Voice of Reason.” Original humor, not a rip-off of internet political rantings, “The Voice of Reason” hit many issues that couch potatoes in America have been afraid to ask about. Like teenagers getting high by eating laundry soap pods. He gives audiences a badly needed “commonsense perspective” on everyday life, everyday life that everyday people who are often forgotten in the national talk show jousting, can identify with and enjoy.

I have always been in love with WGN’s Morning News show with Potash and Baumgarten. They’re funny and they encourage everyone on their team to be funny, too. Naturally funny.

Tomasulo was nurtured in that environment with Potash’s and Baumgarten’s “mom and pop” comedy duo.

The show is filled with original skits, original comedy and comedy that you will enjoy, whether you support Trump or hate Trump, or whether you enjoy snorting Tide or just a doobie now and then.

You can view clips from “Man of the People” online at www.

ManofthePeople.com.

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

Thursday, January 25, 2018

The Reporter

Burke supports law providing protection for hate crime victims

Falling forward with a grateful heart

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hen a single father and Trinity Christian College graduate was struggling to find a job, he created a company to employ himself.

Christian D. Perry, of Palos Heights, is the founder of a youth empowerment organization called, “Grind Grately.”

“We give youth the tools they need to improve their attitudinal fitness, so they can live their most emotionally prosperous lives,” explained Perry. “We conduct workshops for students in high school and college. We also offer mentorship programs with small groups.”

Perry said it’s not his success that qualifies him to speak before large audiences, it’s his failures.

“I own my story,” Perry stated with confidence. “I’m not what has happened to me.

There aren’t many people who have been through what I’ve been through and kept an optimistic disposition.”

Perry’s troubles began over a decade ago while in his sophomore year of high school.

“I’d just come from a weekend fishing trip with several men from my family,” he recalled. “There was about 10 of us total.”

Perry said upon returning to school the following week, he put on some pants that he worn on that fishing trip. Unbeknownst to him, he had left a small fishing knife in his pocket.

“It must have fallen from my clothing when I changed into my gym shorts,” said Perry.

His teacher, completely unconvinced there wasn’t malicious intent for the “weapon,” led him through the disciplinary process of expulsion. That incident precipitated his PingPong high school experience. He bounced in and out of four different schools over the following four years, narrowly graduating with a 1.8 grade point average.

Frustrated by his injustice, Perry said he began to make poor choices leading to lots of quarrels within the family home. First, at his mom and stepdad’s house, then, within his biological father’s house. As stated by many parents, “My house. My rules!” Those words offer an option; either shape up or ship out.

Perry decided on the latter and joined the Navy.

Boot camp was a better alternative to literally living on the street.

“My family infighting had gotten so bad, I actually spent a couple of weeks sleeping in my car,” recalled Perry. “That was a very difficult time.”

Perry said an uncle he holds in high regard persuaded him to join the military.

The Naval Station Great Lakes boasts of turning “Civilians into Seamen and Seamen into Sailors.” That proved a difficult task for Perry, as he had failed to share his phobia of water with his recruiting officer. A near drowning incident from childhood would psychologically resurface and paralyzed him whenever he was near deep water. He was the last of 62 men to graduate. The normal boot camp duration is eight weeks. It took Perry 12.

A couple of those weeks were spent recovering from a hospital stay.

“One day after doing repeated drills in the pool during inclemClaudia ent weather, I felt like Parker I couldn’t get warm,” said Perry. “I remember someone saying, ‘Hey Perry, man, you alright?’ I said, ‘Yeah, I’m good.’ The next thing I remember is passing out. I had a fever so high I suffered a seizure, urinated on myself and woke up in the hospital with pneumonia.”

Perry persisted and successfully overcame his fear of water. Today, he considers himself a very strong swimmer. After graduating from the Naval Academy, he packed up his confidence and relocated to Virginia Beach, Va., where he was assigned to Naval Air Station Oceana.

Many warn against young military marriages. According to the Centers for Disease Control, 48 percent of couples who marry before 18 are likely to divorce within 10 years. Well, the then 20-year-old Perry’s marriage to his high school sweetheart went the distance of 90 days!

“We were married just long enough to consummate and conceive a son,” said Perry.

“She didn’t find out she was pregnant until after she moved back to Chicago.”

The marriage went bad, but military life had proven to be good for Perry. He was excelling in Virginia. However, as his four years on active duty came to a close, he decided not to reenlist so that he could return to Chicago to raise his, then 2, now, 6-year-old son, Mykael Perry, of whom he shares nearly all of his time.

Perry remembers examining his life, “I was a 22-year-old single father, divorced, with a bankruptcy.” He shook his head. “I wanted my son to have a better example than that, so I enrolled at Trinity Christian College.”

While he was initially enrolled on academic

State Rep. Kelly Burke (D-36th) supports a new law that went into effect last week for victims of hate crimes who will now be able to seek greater financial compensation from their assailants.

“I was horrified by the acts of violence committed be Neo-Nazis this past year in Charlottesville, and I am deeply disturbed by the rise in extremism across our country,” Burke said. “This new law is about sending a message that we will stand up in support of our neighbors and not allow acts of violence and discrimination to go unpunished in Illinois.”

House Bill 2390 allows police and prosecutors to charge crimi-

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Police reports Continued from Page 2

forward most of the money to a third party, and keep five percent “for your trouble.” After the transaction was completed, the resident learned that the check deposited in the account was fraudulent and the money sent to the third party was the victim’s.

• Police are investigating a deceptive practice complaint filed by a resident at noon on Saturday.

The victim said that after months of communicating with a person on an online dating site, the of-

SUDOKU

Answers

and you don’t want to run out things to toss and start looking at the children.

It’s said that clutter impacts our mind and energy levels. Think about how you feel after you have cleaned up the kitchen in the morning. Less anxious? More calm? Yes, indeed. But beJanet you may be in such Boudreau ware, a zen zone that you forget the kitchen is a workhorse with a revolving door. Decluttering is simply removing excess items, not eliminating basic functionalities, like using the toaster or blender that was so carefully tucked out of sight. My husband can turn into a real bear if he wants to make lunch after one of my cleaning marathons. He simply doesn’t understand how this undermines my hard work.

Again, decluttering isn’t cleaning, although cleaning will be easier once you declutter.

Start with one room. I have clutter everywhere so there is no specific place to start.

I’ve heard of methods where your belongings are separated into three parts: Toss, donate, think about.

I believe the sentimental things are what I really have to think about. The urn, for example, is definitely staying. I also have my mother’s china that I never use. That’s a hard one. I’m thinking that maybe I can offer it to a sister or cousin. Keep it in the family, or at least transfer the guilt to someone else.

Another hard purge is clothing. It can be easy and somewhat liberating to go through your own closet, pulling out dresses and blouses and the odd scarf. If anything, you

fender requested $500 be sent to an orphanage in the Philippines.

The victim did as requested, but called police when a second request for $1,000 was received.

Armed robbery

Police are investigating an armed robbery at Hi-Phone, 10142 S Roberts Road, at 9 p.m. Friday.

A store employee told police that two men came into the store, one brandishing a black handgun, and stole several cellphones, laptop computers and cash after a brief struggle with the employee.

DUI charges

• Timothy Shamasko, 49, of

CROSSWORD

Answers

Submitted photo

Christian Perry celebrates with his son, Mykael Perry, after he graduated from Trinity Christian College in Palos Heights.

probation, Perry went on to earn several slots on the dean’s list within his tenure on campus. He also took on leadership responsibilities such as assistant basketball coach and president of the Black Student Union.

He graduated in December of 2016 with a bachelor’s in political science. Over the last year, Perry has been unable to find work in his field. Undeterred by the setback, he’s been pouring himself into young people through his organization, Grind Grately.

“Since the age of 2, my son has been by my side. He’s such a gift, he has the best parts of me and his mother,” stated Perry.

“My son has made me realize that being my best self is what’s best for him. I want my life to be of service to others. I’m not exactly sure how I will reach my full potential, but in whatever way I get there, I will choose to be grateful.”

For more about Christian Perry, visit www.

GrindGrately.com.

Claudia Parker is an author, journalist, photographer and videographer. Her column has returned and will be featured the fourth (or fifth) week of each month.

She can be reached at AuthorClaudiaParker@Yahoo.com.

now have a good excuse to go shopping.

Men react a little slower. All those golf shirts with the name of the event/tournament/ country club can really bring a tear to the eye. Especially if one or two was from a great round.

Personally, I feel that purging my husband’s clothes myself gives me more satisfaction than him. I have always despised his Tommy Bahama shirts. No one wears them anymore; they are a product of the ‘90s. It could be that he has great memories of wearing them 25 years ago, when he was a little more fit and not gray. Sorry, those days aren’t coming back.

A man’s collection of ties is much like my collection of bath towels. We think we are replacing the old, but actually, we’re just adding more to the mess. I simply can’t throw out an old and frayed towel when it can still serve a purpose. And yes, I have torn them up for rags, and now I have a nice collection of rags, too. My husband, on the other hand, went on a tie-buying spree recently, and I truly believe he could set up his own department at Macy’s.

Decluttering, it seems, serves a lot of purposes and is often enlightening. Am I going to regret finally donating my wedding dress? I can’t pass it down to my daughter, as she’s already told me it’s hideous. I guess I’m going to have one big pile called “think about.” I’m not sure if that qualifies for a shopping trip, but at least something has been accomplished.

Janet Boudreau is a writer, blogger, and longtime resident of Evergreen Park. You can reach her at blndy9@yahoo.com

Worth, was charged with aggravated driving under the influence of alcohol, a felony, at 7 p.m.

Saturday. Police said he also was cited for improper lane usage.

He was held for a bond hearing.

• Maciej Dynarski, 29, of Worth, was charged with driving under the influence of alcohol following a traffic stop at 6 p.m. last Thursday. Police said he was also cited for following too closely, improper lane usage, failure to notify the secretary of state of an address change, and failure to wear a seatbelt. He is due in court on March 15.

Bicycle theft

Two bicycles were reported stolen from an unlocked garage in the 10400 block of 81st Court at 9 a.m. Sunday. Police said two different bicycles were left behind in a front yard of the residence.

Retail theft

nals who target the grounds and exterior of religious institutions with a hate crime. The measure also requires community service ordered following a conviction to be performed in the county where the offender was convicted of the crime. Individuals convicted of committing hate crimes must attend in-person educational classes focused on discouraging hate crimes against the targeted group.

The new law also gives judges the ability to determine if the offender must financially owe the victim to address damage. Parents and legal guardians would also be financially responsible for crimes committed by minors.

DEATH NOTICES

Decluttering is figuring out what you cherish and what you don’t need hen we talk about January as the start of a new year on a clean slate, there’s a lot more we can read into this than resolutions and goals. The key word being “clean.” I didn’t make this up.

If you go to your local grocery or drugstore, take a peek in the magazine aisle.

Almost every magazine aimed at women is promoting January as the month to clean and declutter. I think the consensus is that we are all housebound and twiddling our thumbs, so why not take on a task that would otherwise bore us silly?

In the blogging world, and I’ve had a lifestyle blog for over 10 years, you will find post after post on how to declutter your home until you practically have it memorized. I take a lot of the advice with a grain of salt.

One blogger wrote, “Stop hanging on to the sentimental stuff you have in your life. It won’t serve you, just take up space.” I read this while eyeing the small urn on the mantel with my father’s ashes. So I decided to set up some guidelines for myself, because I’m inherently lazy and figured I could really streamline this tortuous project facing me.

There was a decluttering project that went around the blog world a few years ago. I think it made some sense. It had a name something like 30 in 30. I could be wrong on that, but it sums up the concept. Everyday for a month, you fill one trash bag with stuff you don’t love, need or want. And I’m not talking about a little bag from Jewel. A large kitchen trash bag. It really is amazing how fast you can fill that bag. The first time I did it, I was feeling a little heady, and ready to move on to a second bag. But restrain yourself, you have 30 days to do it,

7

• Noah Pacult, 18, of Palos Hills, was charged with possession of stolen property after police responded to a retail theft complaint at 8 p.m. Sunday at Palos Pantry, 8100 W. 111th St., at 8 p.m. Sunday. Police said he was also cited for possession of

alcohol by a minor and contributing to the delinquency of a minor.

Police said a minor who was with him was also charged with retail theft. Pacult is due in court on March 19.

• A retail theft at Elite Mobile, 7233 W. 103rd St., was reported at 1 p.m. last Thursday. Police were told that an unknown woman had come into the store, distracted an employee, and escaped with an iPhone 6 she took off a display.

Lightning fire

Police assisted North Palos Fire Protection District responding to a fire that was discovered at a home in the 10400 block of Alta Drive at 5:45 a.m. Monday.

Police said firefighters quickly extinguished the flames coming from the residence. It was later determined that the fire was caused by a lightning strike to the side of the home. No injuries were reported.

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 guilty in a court of law.

Lawrence Birmingham Lawrence Joseph Birmingham, 56, a former Chicago Ridge resident, died Jan. 14 in Crown Point, Ind. Mr. Birmingham, a U.S. Army veteran from 1980 through 1984, was a mechanic for the Chicago Transit Authority.

Survivors include his mother, Jeanette A. Birmingham; sisters, Jeanne Gindl Williams, Joleen Fields, Donna Green and Theresa Gill; twin brother, Gary; brothers, Matthew, Rev. Kevin, Mark and Brandon; 23 nieces and nephews; and three great-nieces and greatnephews.

Services were Saturday at Colonial Chapel. Interment took place at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery.

Pearl Haberkorn Pearl Helen Haberkorn (nee Goerress), 93, an Oak Lawn resident, died Jan. 18 at Mercy Circle in Chicago.

Mrs. Haberkorn was a homemaker.

Survivors include her husband of 75 years, John Haberkorn, a retired Chicago police commander who also served as chief of the Oak Lawn Police Department; daughters, Carole Dettmann and Pamela McGivern; sons, John, Robert, William and Mark; 22 grandchildren; and 43 great-grandchildren.

Services were Tuesday from Curley Funeral Home to St. Germaine Church. Interment took place at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery. Arrangements were made by Brady-Gill Funeral Home.

Henry Juknaitis Henry Juknaitis, 79, died Jan. 16 at his Palos Heights home.

Mr. Juknaitis, who was born in Lithuania, was employed for many years with the Clearing Bank-Chicago.

Survivors include his sister, Irene Lewis; two nieces, Audrey and Diane; and many relatives and friends.

Services were Friday from Palos-Gaidas Funeral Home to Sacred Heart Church. Entombment took place at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery.

Mark Siegers Mark J. Siegers, 44, a Chicago Ridge resident, died Jan. 15 at Silver Cross Hospital in New Lenox.

Mr. Siegers was a truck driver for a liquor company. He was a member of the DC Eagles motorcycle club.

Survivors include companion, Kristie Saternus; sons, Mark H. and Jaxson; and brothers, John and Robert.

Services were Saturday from Schmaedeke Funeral Home to Our Lady of the Ridge Church. Interment took place at Resurrection Cemetery.

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8 The Reporter

Thursday, January 25, 2018

Be financially prepared for natural disasters

COMINGS & GOINGS

Woman realizes her dream with Tai restaurant

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or Oy Hunsaker, opening her own restaurant is a dream comes true.

Oy and her husband Bryan opened Oy’s Thai Cuisine last week at 1880 Lincoln Highway in New Lenox, across the street from Lincoln-Way Central High School.

“It’s something she talked about for many, many years,” said Bryan Hunsaker.

While this is their first Bob attempt at running a Bong restaurant, the New Lenox couple did their homework, talked to other restaurateurs and decided to take the plunge and open their own place.

Hunsaker, a former hedge fund manager, said he takes care of the business side while his wife runs the kitchen.

“She’s definitely more important than I am,” he said.

“We wanted a small place to start out.

Something simple,” Hunsaker said. Oy’s seats about 30.

Oy’s will feature authentic Thai specialties including appetizers, soups, stir fry, noodles and Thai curry.

Hunsaker said everything his wife makes is good, but added he especially likes her pad Thai, egg rolls and cashew chicken.

“Everything she makes is good,” he said with a laugh.

Hunsaker said the restaurant held a soft opening last week.

“We’ve been well received,” he said adding that the restaurant has been working out some kinks in preparation for this week’s grand opening.

He said there had already been considerable take-out business.

Hunsaker said they were hoping to get some traffic from Lincoln-Way students.

Primary

Continued from Page 1

Newman has some labor support of her own picking up a union endorsement from the National Nurses Association, which cited her views on Medicare as one of the reasons they preferred her to Lipinski.

One of the mayors to endorse Lipinski was the mayor of Newman’s home town of La Grange, Tom Livingston.

“From his seat on the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, Dan Lipinski has played a key role at both the federal and local level in providing parking critical to our downtown revitalization, helping us mitigate flooding, and making rehabilitation of our iconic Stone Avenue station possible with $700,000 in federal money,” Livingston said. “I’m proud to support Dan because he’s delivered for our community.”

In endorsing Lipinski, many of the mayors cited Lipinski’s care for his constituents, accessibility, success leveraging resources and support for local communities, and constituent services.

“As president of the Southwest Conference of Mayors for the past 35 years, I know how important it is to have a Representative who works closely with local elected officials and helps them to take care of their communities,” said Palos Hills Mayor Gerald Bennett. “Dan Lipinski has done just that, working with mayors and other officials to make our communities even better places to live and work.”

Oak Lawn Mayor Sandra Bury also supports Lipinski.

“Congressman Lipinski is an accessible and highly visible representative who listens to our community’s needs and produces results. He has had a real tangible impact in making Oak Lawn an even better place to live, work, and shop by bringing us weekend Metra service, getting a train horn quiet zone added, aiding our first responders in acquiring multiple grants, and helping with revitalization around Patriot Station.”

“Dan Lipinski has been an unending source of support for transportation issues affecting the Village of Bridgeview,” said Mayor Steven Landek.

Mayors from Burbank, Hickory Hills, Justice, Bedford Park, McCook, Willow Springs, Hodgkins, Indian Head Park and Stickney all announced their support for Lipinski.

Marijuana Continued from Page 1

these methods to mitigate the pain from his injuries. After just a brief period of taking medicinal marijuana, Soto noticed a significant difference. He felt much better physically and began to ween himself off a long list of medications he was taking daily.

“It helped get my life back,” Soto said.

Kim began last week’s session by stating she is pleased that Cook County Judge Raymond Mitchell ordered Illinois officials this month to add intractable pain as a qualifying condition of medical marijuana, which could provide more access to the drug. The Illinois Department of Public Health had rejected intractable pain as a reason for medicinal marijuana treatment. Mitchell ordered the agency to add the condition.

“That certainly is good news,” said Kim, who has been working for Windy City Cannabis for two years. “But the (health department) is going to appeal. We will just have to wait and see.”

Oy’s Thai Cuisine restaurant is now open in New Lenox.

“We have an after-school special for students,” he said.

Oy came to the United States from her native Thailand when she was in her early 20s and met her future husband attending church in Utah.

They have lived in the New LenoxMokena area for about 20 years and have a son at Lincoln-Way West High School.

“We are very happy to be a part of this community,” Hunsaker said.

Oy’s is open from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Monday to Thursday, from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Friday and Saturday and closed on Sunday.

For more information, call (815) 4629000 or visit them online at https://oysthaicuisine.com/. You can also find them on Facebook at Oy’s Thai Cuisine.

EveFit holds grand opening

EveFit, a fitness center that caters to women, held its ribbon cutting last week at 16145 S. LaGrange Road in Orland Park. The center will hold an open house

Photo by Bob Bong

grand opening for prospective members on Jan. 27.

For more information, call (708) 2318907 or visit their website at www.evefit. com. They are also on Facebook.

Blueberry Hill opens in Tinley

Blueberry Hill Café continued its south suburban expansion with the recent opening of its ninth location in Tinley Park.

The Tinley location opened in November and like the others in the chain serves breakfast and lunch and is open daily from 6 a.m. to 3 p.m.

About a year ago, the chain took over the former Keystone Café at 4028 W. 147th St. in Midlothian. Blueberry Hill was started more than 15 years ago and has locations in Aurora, Darien, Homewood, Homer Glen, LaGrange, Plainfield and Oak Brook.

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

“I am honored by the overwhelming support of 30 mayors and village presidents from the 3rd Congressional District who back my reelection to Congress,” Lipinski said. “My belief in working to bring people together to solve problems for my constituents encompasses all levels of government. I cooperate closely with local officials because they understand the needs of their communities; in my capacity as a representative I have been very happy to help them build better places for residents to live, work, and raise their families.”

“The choice for working families could not be clearer,” said Terryl Jares, Illinois AFL-CIO vice president, in announcing the endorsement by the 900,000-member union.

“Dan Lipinski is a Democrat who embodies our values, fighting to increase the minimum wage, expand parental leave, and protect workers’ rights to organize and bargain.”

Lipinski’s lifetime labor scorecard, according to the AFL-CIO, exceeds 90 percent.

The endorsement was highly regarded by Lipinski. “I am honored to once again receive the support of the Illinois AFL-CIO and proud to be recognized as a champion for working families,” he said. “We must continue to fight for the creation of high-quality jobs, better wages, and trade agreements that benefit American workers.”

Newman has said she was running against Lipinski, who was first elected in 2004 to replace his father William Lipinski, because he was out of touch with Democratic values.

“Our rights are under assault and he has done nothing to protect women, working families, small business and the LGBTQ community,” she said. “His views are dangerous to the district and to the nation.”

She has picked up support from a variety of organizations that agree with her views on these same issues.

“Marie Newman will be a champion for women’s reproductive rights, equal rights, high-quality health care and the rights of working people who feel like their voices are not being heard in Congress. Marie’s unique combination of small business and non-profit experience means she will hit the ground running in Washington” said Lynda DeLaforgue, co-director of Citizen Action/ Illinois, the state’s largest public interest organization.

She has the endorsement of Pueblo Sin Fronteras / Familia Latina Unida, which was formed primarily by undocumented Mexican

Catholics whose efforts to organize their own community and provide a better education for their children were opposed by the neighborhood Catholic Church. They were active in their church and depended on their faith – but they wanted a church that would support their efforts.

“Marie Newman is the clear choice for strong leadership for immigrant families in the 3rd Congressional district,” said Pastor Emma Lozano. “For too long, the 3rd has had anti-immigrant and anti-women’s health representation. And it’s time for a strong progressive like Marie to represent the true values of the community.”

Reclaim Chicago is a grassroots political organization that endorses, elects, and holds accountable elected officials who put the needs of people and the health of our planet before corporate profits.

“As a resident of the 3rd District and cochair of the Movement Politics Table for Reclaim Chicago, I am excited for us to be endorsing Marie Newman for Congress,” said Quade Gallagher. “We need a strong, bold vision for the 3rd District to ensure that the dignity of people of our community is upheld and fought for on the national stage, and Marie is the candidate for that vision.”

Feminist pioneer Gloria Steinem was an early Newman supporter. “We need effective, principled fighters who can put an end to this president’s unilateral actions by stopping them in Congress — and that’s what Marie Newman will do. It’s what she stands for.

She is unafraid of doing what’s right, even in this time when it isn’t easy. Too many times, Dan Lipinski has voted to deprive citizens of healthcare, to oppose immigrant’s rights, to de-fund Planned Parenthood, to suppress contraception, to oppose marriage equality, and to deny the rights of LGBTQ Americans.

He is not a Democrat or even a supporter of human rights.”

Others to voice their support for Newman include the Feminist Majority, the gun-safety group LEAP Forward, the American Women’s Party advocacy group, and the NARAL ProChoice America organization.

“Time is up for Congressman Lipinski.

For too long, Dan Lipinski has ignored the needs of working families across Illinois, by pushing his fringe ideological agenda at the expense of women and families across the state,” said Ilyse Hogue, president of NARAL Pro-Choice America.

Kim provided people who attended the session with a history of cannabis use that dates back thousands of years. Cannabis was used for medicinal purposes through the 19th century, Kim said. However, it was in the 1930s that the Federal Bureau of Narcotics viewed marijuana as a menace. The propaganda film “Reefer Madness” tried to inform the public of not only the dangers but the subversive nature of marijuana.

After the 1960s, President Nixon declared war on drugs in 1971. However, the bipartisan Shafer Commission appointed by Nixon considered laws decriminalizing personal use of cannabis. But it was later denied by Nixon.

Kim added it was difficult to erase those stigmas surrounding medicinal marijuana until many residents became more accepting of its use to relieve pain. The Illinois Compassion Care Act passed in 2013 and that opened the door for dispensaries to open. The Worth facility opened up in January of 2016.

“We had to start the conversation,” Kim said. “It’s offering patients another option.”

Kim said that medicinal marijuana is not for everybody. While not a cure, the drug

can offer relief for people who are suffering from a series of ailments, Kim added. She added that the Rauner administration has not been as receptive to medicinal marijuana.

The pilot program for medicinal marijuana treatment has been extended in Illinois from this year to 2020.

She believes that dispensaries provide comfort to people who are suffering from various amount of pain and should be continued. She pointed to Soto as a living example.

Soto said that after six months, he had reduced his level of morphine daily intake to 90 milligrams. He takes only a couple of other medications due to medicinal marijuana, he said.

“I was back going to soccer games and baseball games to see my kids play,” Soto said about his 9-year-old and 6-year-old sons.

“I’m much happier now. Taking all those opioids depressed me. With cannabis, you get your life back.”

Testimonials and Information on medicinal marijuana are provided at 6 p.m. the third Thursdays of the month at the Worth Village Hall, 7112 W. 111th St. More information can be obtained at WindyCityCannabis.com.

ust this past year, we’ve seen natural disasters in Texas, California, Florida and Puerto Rico — and looking back even further, it’s not hard to spot other traumas in virtually every part of the country.

Whether it’s a tornado, hurricane, flood or wildfire, you may be at least potentially susceptible to a weather-related event that could threaten your physical — and financial — well-being.

How can you protect yourself?

As far as your physical safety is concerned, you’re probably already aware of the steps you need to take to shield yourself and your family. And now that many alerts can be sent directly to your smartphone, you’ve got an even better chance to prepare for an approaching threat. But when it comes to safeguarding your financial situation, you’ll need to be ready well in advance – and the following moves can help: Scott • Strengthen your home. Your home is Johnson probably your biggest asset, so you’ll want to do everything you can to keep it safe. In the face of a truly calamitous event, such as hundred-mile-per-hour winds or the advance of uncontrollable fire, there may not be much you can do, but in less dire circumstances, your actions can help. Your insurance professional can offer tips on protecting your residence.

• Maintain sufficient insurance. It’s a good idea to review your existing homeowners or renters insurance periodically to make sure you are sufficiently covered for all possible hazards.

Keep in mind that homeowners insurance does not typically cover flooding, so you may need to purchase flood insurance from the National Flood Insurance Program. (Depending on where you live, this coverage may be required when you get your mortgage.) Also, in conjunction with maintaining your insurance, you should document your possessions, so you may want to make a video inventory as well as a written list containing descriptions and values.

• Create an emergency fund. A natural disaster can lead to a wide array of unanticipated costs: appliance repair or replacement, hotel and restaurant bills, insurance deductibles — the list could go on and on. Consequently, you’ll help protect yourself and your family by building an emergency fund. Some of this money should go into a liquid, low-risk account, but you may also want to keep a small amount of cash at home in a safe place, as ATMs and credit cards may not work during or following a disaster, when you must purchase needed supplies.

• Protect your documents. As you go through life, you’ll accumulate a lot of documents — mortgage papers, insurance policies, financial accounts, tax statements and so on. If disaster strikes, you may need these documents. You’ll want to store paper copies in a fireproof and waterproof box or safe at home, in a bank safety deposit box, or with a relative or close friend. Of course, we’re now living in a digital age, so you can store electronic copies of important documents in a passwordprotected format on a removable flash or external hard drive.

Better yet, you might want to use a secure cloud-based service.

With luck, you can avoid being victimized by a natural disaster. But, as the old saying goes: “Hope for the best and prepare for the worst.” From a financial perspective, that’s good advice.

Scott Johnson, CFP, is a financial advisor with Edward Jones, 8146 W. 111th St., Palos Hills, (708) 974-1965. Edward Jones does not provide legal advice. This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones financial advisor.

I-294

Continued from Page 1

would involve strips of rightof-way, which is approximately 10 feet.

Karen Grisco, a resident whose home is one of only two that faces the tollway, rather than backing up to it as most homes do, questioned Zuccchero about the timeline for the project.

“When will you know if you need some, or all, of my property?”

Zucchero replied it would be in the next four or five months.

He stated again that the agency was anticipating that for the most part, any acquisitions would be for a right-of-way or easement portions.

“Appraisers will meet with residents to determine fair market value and negotiations will begin with the owners. It should be no less than 60 days,” Zucchero said.

In a later conversation, Grisco explained that when her house was built by her grandfather

many years ago, it was built on open land, as was the home next to it.

“As the years passed, the land behind the two houses was purchased by a developer who built a large subdivision. The entire subdivision was built facing in the other direction,” she said. “So only my neighbor and I now face the tollway, with a sound wall and drainage ditch across the street from our driveways.”

Her neighbor, Marzena Ciszek, added that even with the sound wall she can hear the traffic.

“But you get used to it. It is livable,” she said.

During the presentation, residents asked if the sound walls would be replaced when the construction was done. Zucchero assured them they would be.

Hickory Hills Mayor Mike Howley stated later that the city had met with the Tollway Agency in two previous meetings.

“The communication has been good and very transparent. They have been very diligent in alleviating our early concerns about the impact on our residents.”

Mortgage Rates Around the Area First Midwest Bank (as of January 22) 30-year fixed 15-year fixed 30-year fixed Jumbo

RATES 4.250 3.625 3.990

United Trust Bank (as of January 16) 30-year fixed 15-year fixed 10-year fixed

RATES 4.125 3.625 3.750

APR 4.295 3.680 4.045

POINTS 0 0 0

APR 4.146 3.662 3.803

POINTS 0 0 0

Prospect Savings Bank (as of January 23) 30-year fixed 20-year fixed 15-year fixed

RATES 4.000 3.750 3.250

APR 4.114 3.907 3.449

CNB Bank & Trust, N.A. (as of January 16) 30-year fixed 20-year fixed 15-year fixed

RATES 4.125 3.875 3.5

APR 4.2048 3.986 3.6425

All rates subject to change daily. Equal opportunity lenders.

POINTS 0 0 0 POINTS 0 0 0

The Reporter

Thursday, January 25, 2018

MOVIE REVIEW

9

STUDENTS IN THE SPOTLIGHT

‘The Commuter’ rises above usual lackluster January films

Oak Lawn resident is named to dean’s list at St. Mary’s University

W

ell, dear reader, normally this is where I would say we are trapped. Trapped in the cinematic doldrums – A local student has been selected the dreaded desert of quality that is mid-January. The to the dean’s list for the 2017-18 first last of the Oscar hopefuls have already been thrust. The early semester at St. Mary’s University blockbusters and comedies that pervade the spring have yet to in Winona, Minn. be sprung. But one hero, for the last decade, has Oak Lawn resident Tara Nagy, been fighting against that trend. This hero: Liam the daughter of Richard and Sue Neeson.

Nagy, was selected to the dean’s In what is, to my mind at least, one of the Photo courtesy of Matt Morales, Digital Hot Shots Photography list. Students who have a gradestrangest career reinventions — Oscar-nominated The Oak Lawn Chamber of Commerce held its 72nd annual installation Saturday at the Hilton Oak Lawn. point average of 3.60 or better actor to a badass lion in winter — Neeson’s The Village of Oak Lawn was honored as the chamber’s “Outstanding Chamber Member” for 2017. On on a 4.0 scale qualify for the hand after the celebration (from left) was the 2016 recipient, Mike Abdallah, who presented the award entry into the genre have often pleased (i.e. dean’s list. to Oak Lawn Mayor Sandra Bury, Steve Radice, director of Economic Development; Trustee Terry Vorderer “Taken,” “Unstoppable,” and “Non-Stop”), (4th), Trustee Bud Stalker (5th), Village Clerk Jane Quinlan, Police Chief Randy Palmer, Fire Chief George though some have proved utterly confounding Local students selected Brian Sheets, and in the back, emcee Don Murphy. (see — or rather, don’t see — “Taken 2” and to dean’s list at Laughran “Taken 3”). Luckily, his latest, “The Commuter” Aurora University (directed by Jaume Collet-Serra) is a firm entry Three local students have been into the pleasing category. selected to the dean’s list for the fall Neeson plays Mike MacCauley, an insurance broker who loses 2017 semester at Aurora University his job just as his son is about to go off to college. The family is in Aurora, Ill. living paycheck-to-paycheck and losing his job now is a devastatEarning dean’s list honors were ing blow to their present and future.

Members and supporters of the Oak Lawn the chamber with its Spring Into Summer and Evergreen Park resident Mary MarBut when a mysterious stranger (Vera Farmiga) sits next to the business community gathered on Saturday at the Shop Oak Lawn events. Each year, the police soobian, who is working on her beleaguered Mike on the same train ride home he’s been takHilton Oak Lawn to honor the 2018 officers and department also presents safety tips and business bachelor’s degree in social work; ing for decades, he gets a second chance at life. She offers him directors of the Oak Lawn Chamber of Commerce awareness guidance at a Chamber luncheon. The Oak Lawn resident Alexa Lopez, $100,000 to find the one person on the train that doesn’t belong during the 72nd annual installation. police department is in the process of starting a pre-athletic training; and Worth – other than herself, of course. This person has a bag and anThe Installation was led by Dr. Sandra Bury, program with a PD liaison that will work directly resident Chad Longfield, elemenswers to the name of Prynne; those are the only clues he’s given. the Oak Lawn mayor. The Village of Oak Lawn with businesses to further promote and insure tary education.

The rest is up to him to deduct. That task should be impossible was honored as the recipient of the chamber’s safety within the Village. for an insurance broker, but Mike has a particular set of skills award for Outstanding Chamber Member for 2017.

Under the leadership of Public Works Director Local students earn (He is Liam Neeson, after all….) as a former detective.

The Village of Oak Lawn has been a member Steve Barrett, the department has come to the dean’s list honors at Unsurprisingly, “The Commuter” feels smaller than many of of the Oak Lawn Chamber of Commerce for aid of the chamber in helping with such events Iowa State University the Neeson action pictures. He’s not open-hand throat punchmany years. as Spring Into Summer, Shop Oak Lawn and Local students have been seing all of Europe as he did in the “Taken” pictures. Nor is he The Oak Lawn Fire Department was honored. the installation of street lamp banners as part of lected to the 2017-18 dean’s list globetrotting across vast distances in a race against time. Rather, For 39 years, the chamber and the fire department the banner program. Gerald “Chic” Chickerillo, at Iowa State University in Ames, have partnered to produce a Fire Safety Coloring street division manager, has helped the chamber he’s racing up and down the aisles of a commuter train moving Iowa.

Book for school children of Oak Lawn. About with their needs. at a reasonable speed.

Earning dean’s list honors were 10 years ago, the police department joined the Roger Minnis, Public Works, Building and The intimacy and mundanity at play here is what I liked. As partnership, and the book grew into the Fire and Grounds manager, has assisted the chamber as Oak Lawn resident Michael Walt, opposed to last year’s “Murder on the Orient Express” (directed Public Safety Coloring Book. well. The chamber said he is always available and a senior who is majoring in aeroby Kenneth Branagh), which loved its actors and production Through the generosity of many Oak Lawn routinely goes above and beyond the call of duty. space engineering; and Palos Hills design more than its central mystery, Collet-Serra directs with a Chamber members, the program helps teach Steve Radice, director of Business Development, resident Michael Labrador, a freshfirm and authoritative style, but always keeps us engaged wonman majoring in biology. dering who Prynne is. He keeps the drama small and thus keeps children the vital importance of Fire and Pub- is also credited by the chamber with providing lic safety. The Fire Department has taken on assistance and helping with business recruitment it urgent.

Oak Lawn resident earns the task of distributing these books to each and and chamber events. Village Clerk Jane Quinlan But the faster Neeson must race against the clock and the bigevery kindergarten through fourth grade student was also cited for her longtime support and help dean’s list honor ger the web of mystery is revealed to be, the shakier the movie in Oak Lawn schools, according to the chamber. with posting events on the village marquee. at Fairfield University becomes. At one point the train derails (not a spoiler, it was in Not only does it teach our children the importance Village Manager Larry Deetjen was also the trailer) and Neeson is jumping between cars as they run off A local student has been selected of Fire and Public safety, it allows them to have honored by the chamber for his expertise and the tracks and explode. to the undergraduate dean’s list for fun at the same time. The fire department has also insights. He is recognized for his connection I cared much less about those scenes than I did of Neeson the fall 2017 semester at Fairfield helped with the chamber’s Spring Into Summer with new development for protecting existing interrogating and getting into close-quartered fights with passenUniversity in Fairfield. Conn. events and has hosted informative and entertain- businesses. Bury has been a longtime member gers. They felt more real and more intense. Neeson as an actor Madalyn Marie Wantuck, a resiing luncheons for the chamber at the fire house. and the chamber points to her as a longtime engaging with a very well-cast ensemble of mostly unknowns is dent of Oak Lawn, was named to In addition to partnering with the chamber advocate of small businesses. far more entertaining than a CGI replication of Neeson leaping the dean’s list with a grade-point on the Fire and Public Safety Coloring Book, More information can be obtained at www. around like Batman with flames in the background. average of 3.50 or better. the Oak Lawn Police Department has assisted oaklawnchamber.com.

Still, those scenes are so few and far between that I am still recommending the picture. The script is pretty tight — though if you can’t guess the twist of who the bad guy has been the whole time, you really need to watch more movies — and moves at a warm mulled wine. Guests are encouraged to while the kids will supply the imagination. brisk pace. dress cozy and see why the Danes are happy Register online at www.greenhillslibrary.org.

RATING: B+ Chicago Ridge Library Board despite long, cold winters. Register online at www.olpl.org, in person at the adult and young Chicago’s sweet candy history seeks to fil vacancy The history of chocolate in Chicago will The Chicago Ridge Public Library Board adult services desk, or call (708) 422-4990. be explored at 11:30 a.m. Friday, Feb. 2 at been facing declining enrollment the Green Hills Library. in recent years, which has created of Trustees is seeking applicants to fill a Session focuses on For most of its history, Chicago produced ‘Serious Chili Cooking’ Continued from Page 1 a strain on the school’s finances. recent vacancy on its board.

The Board of Trustees is responsible for one third of the nation’s candy. Learn some But Worth Mayor Mary WerA session in “Serious Chili Cooking” will the school principal, referred to ner agrees with Tokar that more the overall governance of the library, 10400 take place at 6:30 p.m. Monday, Jan. 29 at the of the history behind these tasty treats and as a “little gem,” said the school could have been done in terms S. Oxford Ave., which includes setting policy, Oak Lawn Library. Chef Michael Niksic will explore what made Chicago such a powerful was not provided the continued of keeping Catholic grade school goals, and objectives for the library, hiring discuss multi-layered flavors and compound location for candy makers. Guests can bring and evaluating the library director, and essupport of the archdiocese. education in the community. cooking approaches, as well as straightfor- a brown bag lunch. Coffee and cookies will “I thought when they closed St. “Here’s the worst part — we tablishing and monitoring the library’s an- ward approaches to making various types of be provided. The event is for adults only.

Louis de Montfort last year that have two schools closing,” Werner nual budget.

Registration is limited to 45. Register online Applicants must be 18 years old or older, chili. This is not a hands-on class. Substantial at www.greenhillslibrary.org. they could have done something said. “We had parents who were portions will be served to attendees.

Register more,” said Chicago Ridge Mayor sending their children to Incarna- a registered voter in Chicago Ridge, and able online at www.olpl.org, in person at the adult Chuck Tokar, who is a graduate of tion. Last year, they closed St. to attend board meetings held on the second and young adult services desk, or call (708) Read to Dogs therapy session The next Read to Dogs therapy session will Our Lady of the Ridge. “Now they Louis de Montfort, which was Monday evening of each month. Individuals 422--4990. be held from 4 to 6 p.m. Monday, Feb. 5 at the are closing Our Lady of the Ridge just down Ridgeland. Now we who are interested in applying can send a Green Hills Library. Participants can sharpen and Incarnation. They could have have no schools in the area. I cover letter and resume to trustee@chica- Making Valentine hearts their reading skills by reading to therapy combined St. Louis de Montfort, don’t know what the parents will goridgelibrary.org. with 3D printer Our Lady of the Ridge and In- do. It’s just very sad.”

Youngsters ages 11 to 14 can learn to dogs. Once books are completed, pictures carnation.

The archdiocese has planned make a silhouette Valentine through a new will be taken of the participants and hung “But I just don’t know what the some mergers involving some Sample food from local chefs 3D printer from 3:45 to 5 p.m. Thursday, Feb. in the library. Registration is limited to 30.

Register online at www.greenhillslibrary.org. archdiocese is thinking,” added of the closing schools this year.

An opportunity to sample foods created 1 at the Oak Lawn Library. Visitors can make Tokar. “I think they are shooting While no mergers or school a variety of heart projects ranging from key Youths can participate themselves in the foot. I don’t groupings are scheduled right by chefs from the community will be held chains, bookmarks and even a human heart in drop-in button workshop from 6 to 10 p.m.

Saturday, Feb. 10 at the know where people are going to now, Maselli said the archdiocese model. Registration begins 10 days before each Evergreen Park Library, 9400 S. Troy Ave. A drop-in button workshop will be held for send their kids to school.” will continue to talk to parents of event. For more information about this and youths ages 10 to 17 from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m.

The event for adults ages 21 and over is A meeting was held last Thurs- students at Incarnation and Our $25 per ticket. A cash bar will be available. other youth programs, call (708) 422-4990, Tuesday, Feb. 5 at the Green Hills Library. day night at Incarnation Church Lady of the Ridge.

Registration is requested from the library or visit www.olpl.org.

Guests can make their own 1.5-inch buttons to discuss future plans for the “We’re also working with teachwebsite at www.evergreenparklibrary.org or to decorate jackets and backpacks. Participants students there. Our Lady of the ers and faculty members at these Annual Souper Bowl food drive can bring their own pictures as well. Register Ridge was mentioned a couple of schools who will be displaced and call (708) 422-8522. to assist local food pantries online at www.green hillslibrary.org. times during the meeting. How- find other schools for them,” Ma- Create graphics using The annual Souper Bowl food drive conever, no specific plans have been selli said.

Candy-making class for adults PowerPoint tinues through Sunday, Feb. 4 at the Oak arranged yet for the students at Tokar still finds the decision to A candy-making class will be held at Lessons in creating graphics using Power- Lawn Library. Participants will team up to Incarnation and Our Lady of the close Our Lady of the Ridge and 7 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 6 at the Green Hills Point will be held at 6:30 p.m.

Tuesday, Jan. Ridge Incarnation schools perplexing. 31 at the Evergreen Park Library. Visitors stop hunger and help local food pantries stock Library. Visitors can learn how to make their shelves after the holidays. Participants “We’re working with the “It’s really frustrating,” Tokar chocolate treats such as turtles, chocolate families of Incarnation and Our said. “These people worked so will learn how to create and modify graphics are welcome to collect at least 1,000 donated covered pretzels and other specialty treats. to make their own jpegs.

Guests will learn non-perishable food items. A donation barrel Lady of the Ridge on looking for hard to raise over $300,000 to Each participant will make the candy themschools that they can attend,” said keep the school open. These to resize, add borders, remove backgrounds, will be located in the library’s lobby through selves as the instructor gives step-by-step color correcting, and applying artistic effects. the Souper Bowl food drive. More information Anne Maselli, director of market- people worked their butts off. guidance. The event is for adults only. Reging for the Chicago Archdiocese. And then they are told a year Registration is requested from the library can be obtained by calling (708) 422-4990 istration is limited to 70. Register online at website at www.evergreenparklibrary.org or or visit www.olpl.org.

“Some families are interested in later we are going to close the www.greenhillslibrary.org. call (708) 422-8522. the fact that some students would school.

Learning basics of like to enter as a group at some “It’s hard for me to reconcile Kindred Spirits Book Club schools. We are also looking into this as a Catholic what they (the will meet Microsoft Excel Making bath bombs and scrubs that for families.” archdiocese) are doing,” Tokar Patrons can learn the basics of Microsoft The Kindred Spirits Book will gather for a Patrons can learn how to make scented Our Lady of the Ridge School added. “You would have thought Excel to create spreadsheets and charts during discussion at 6:30 p.m.

Wednesday, Jan. 31 at bath bombs and scrubs at 7 p.m. Tuesday, had a current enrollment of 133 they would have had some kind a session scheduled for 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, the Evergreen Park Library.This month’s selecJan. 30 at the Green Hills Library, 10331 S. students, according to the arch- of plan ahead of time. Combining Feb. 7 at Green Hills Library. This class tions to be discussed will be “The Warmth Interlochen Drive, Palos Hills.

Supplies will diocese. Officials from the arch- these schools would have made of Other Suns: The Epic Story of America’s be provided during this hands-on class for will provide an overview of Excel and an diocese said that the school had the most sense.”

Great Migration” by Isabel Wilkerson. Copies adults. Registration is limited to 48. Register introduction to using basic formulas. Basic computer skills are required. Registration is of the book are available at the circulation online at www.greenhillslibrary.org. limited to 10. This class is for adults only. desk. To register, call the library at (708) 422LEGAL NOTICE Laptops will be provided. Register online at 8522 or visit www.evergreenparklibrary.org. Book discussion for kids A book discussion for kids ages 10 to 17 www.greenhillslibrary.org. will be held from 6 to 7 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 31 at the Green Hills Library. Participants will join Miss Natalie for book discussion Learning to relax during winter followed by making crafts. Snacks will be Slide lecture on Biltmore Estate days and nights A slide lecture program about the Biltmore provided. Copies of the book will be availPatrons can survive the winter by prac- able at the youth services desk. Registration Estate in Asheville, N.C.., will take place at ticing the art of hygae — the Danish word is limited to 15. Register online at www. 1 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 27 in the meeting room describing warm, cozy rituals by using the greenhillslibrary.org. of the Worth Library, 6917 W. 111th St. simpler things in life — from 2 to 4 p.m.

Jeff Mishur will discuss the history, archiSunday, Jan. 28 at the Oak Lawn Library, Lego Club will meet tecture and landscape plan of the Biltmore 9427 S. Raymond Ave. The Lego Club for children in kindergar- Estate. He also makes parallels between the Learn the basics and experience hygae (pro- ten through fifth grade will meet at 4 p.m. Downton Abbey and Biltmore (America’s largnounced hoo-gah). The program for adults Thursday, Feb. 1 at the Green Hills Library. est private home). More information can be ages 21 and over will be completed with a Library staff members will supply the Legos obtained by calling (708) 448-2855.

Village of Oak Lawn honored as ‘Outstanding Chamber Member’

LIBRARY HAPPENINGS

CHICAGO RIDGE

Ridge

EVERGREEN PARK

PALOS HILLS

OAK LAWN

WORTH

10 The Reporter

Thursday, January 25, 2018

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Mohammad Farhan outlasted more than 1,000 of his contemporaries to win this year’s North Palos School District 117 Spelling Bee to advance to the South Cook Region Spelling Bee on Feb. 5.

That event will be held at 7 p.m. at the Southland College Charter Prep High School in Richton Park.

Mohammad, a third-grader at Oak Ridge School, competed against five of his peers (two from Oak Ridge and three from Glen Oaks) in the finals of the district spelling bee. He and fellow third-grader Huda Khan went back and forth for more than 20 rounds after the first four participants bowed out

by Round 11.

Conrady Junior High School did not compete this year.

More than 500 students from both Oak Ridge and Glen Oaks competed last month in individual classroom and school spelling bees to advance to the district finals. Students started out with “thirdgrade words” as a warmup but quickly progressed

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to seventh- and eighth-grade words. Huda bowed out after leaving the “h” off charismatic. Mohammad then had to correctly spell “servitude” and “tremendous” before he was named the winner of this year’s district spelling bee.

A smile crossed Mohammad’s face after he was told that he had spelled both words correctly. Mohammad was then handed the trophy he got for winning the contest. The event is all part of the famous Scripps-Howard Spelling Bee held annually in Washington, D.C. Media specialists Susan McMillin and Christine Pulgar conducted the district spelling bee.

“This is the third year we have held this contest and the kids really love it,” McMillin said. “It was a frenzy this year. We had nearly 600 students compete and that’s a lot of students.

“The kids are really into the spelling bee,” she said. “They have worked really hard studying the words. I’m really proud of all of them.”

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SPORTS The Regional News • The Reporter

Ken Karrson, Sports Editor • sports@regionalpublishing.com Jeff Vorva, Sports Editor • sports@regionalpublishing.com

Thursday, January 2018 Thursday, March 25, 5, 2015

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

Quite a hockey prodigy Murphy, 15, is playing at an incredibly high level

S

o, last Thursday a small group of reporters was talking to a sophomore high school hockey player.

She said, “I’m focusing on my club team right now — we’re hoping to win a national championship in March.’’

Probably 999 times out of 1,000 I don’t think there is anything odd about a statement like that.

Talented players on talented teams shoot for national championships.

That happens in all sports.

But what seemed intriguing to me is when and where this statewas said.

JEFF VORVA ment Evergreen Park’s Abbey Making the Murphy, a sophomore at Mother Extra Point McAuley High School, had just been honored by her school with a golf cart parade down the hallMore on Abbey ways of the Chicago school and Murphy and her was sporting a shiny gold medal celebration: after coming home from Russia Page 4 a champion. Murphy, 15, was a member of the USA U18 team that won the gold in the International Ice Hockey Federation Women’s World Championships in Dmitrov earlier this month.

She had just played against some of the best 16-, 17- and 18-year olds in the world, and now she’s getting geeked up playing for the Chicago Mission.

And she hopes to qualify for what seems to me to be a little ol’ national championship after what she’s been through.

Not many players get to go to nationals and have it be a step down in competition.

But, then again, not many players get to the level Murphy has gotten to.

She’s just 15. Playing against 18-year-olds. From other nations. And scoring goals.

See VORVA, Page 4

Photo by Jeff Vorva

Mother McAuley sophomore Abbey Murphy, an Evergreen Park resident, shows the gold medal that she won representing the United States 18U team earlier this month.

Photo by Jeff Vorva

Oak Lawn senior Dan Lillard reaches for the ball Friday night against Richards. The Spartans are within reach of winning their first conference title since 1983.

Rare title within reach

Oak Lawn is in the thick of conference race after win over Richards

By Jeff Vorva Sports Editor

There it is on the East wall of the Oak Lawn gym for all to see: A bunch of boxes indicating all of the conference titles Oak Lawn athletic teams have won.

In the boys basketball box, it reads: “1967 1971 1979 1983”.

The Spartans haven’t won a league title since guys such as Randy Stanick and Tom Baxa were helping the team to a SICA West title. They have never won a South Suburban Red title, as that conference was established in 2006.

It’s been a long dry spell.

“We’re very aware of that,” Oak Lawn coach Jason Rhodes said.

The Spartans put themselves in a good position to end that after beating crosstown rival Richards, 57-52, in a home game Friday night. Heading into this week’s action, Shepard and Richards were on the top of the hill with 5-3 marks, while Oak Lawn is 4-3.

Senior Adem Osmani scored 15 of his 23 points in the fourth quarter to help with the victory. He added 10 rebounds and five assists.

He also knows about the conference title drought and wants that to end.

SOUTH SUBURBAN CONFERENCE RED STANDINGS Through Jan. 21: Shepard ..................................... 5-3 Richards ..................................... 5-3 Oak Lawn ................................... 4-3 Reavis ........................................ 3-4 Evergreen Park ......................... 3-5 Eisenhower ................................ 1-6 Argo ............................................ 0-8 Note: Records include crossover games with SSC Blue teams.

“That’s been the goal since I got here,” he said. “We’re in a good position now.’’

Last year, Oak Lawn broke a long losing skid to Richards with a 66-64 victory, thanks in part to Osmani’s tip-in with 1.6 seconds left at Richards to close the regular season. It denied the Bulldogs their 11th league title in 12 years and allowed Evergreen Park to win its first conference crown since 1994.

After Friday’s game, some Oak Lawn fans stormed the court for a celebration.

Which game was more exciting?

“Honestly, both,” Osmani said.

“I’m just glad we could beat them two years in a row. Oak Lawn has not

Photo by Jeff Vorva

While Oak Lawn fans stormed the court, senior Spartan Adem Osmani stormed the stands to celebrate Friday’s victory over crosstown rival Richards with family members. Osmani had 23 points in the game.

had a great record against Richards and I wanted to end that. I want us to be the best team in Oak Lawn.

“We knew Richards was good and it was going to be close. But when you get to the fourth quarter, it’s winning time.’’

“This year’s game was more important,” Rhodes added.

Sophomore Sami Osmani added

13 points for Oak Lawn, which is 12-6 overall. Trevon Jones had 22 points and sophomore Paul Zilinskas added 11 for Richards (7-11 overall).

The Spartans were scheduled to visit Bremen in its final crossover game against SSC Blue foes on Tuesday and hosts Evergreen Park See OAK LAWN, Page 3

BOYS BOWLING SECTIONALS

Area is sending a talented trio to O’Fallon McCarthy is first CC boys bowler to qualify for state

By Jeff Vorva Sports Editor

Three-sport athlete Matt McCarthy became the first male bowler in Chicago Christian history to qualify for the Illinois High School Association state tournament. He’ll join junior Zach McCormick of Evergreen Park and sophomore Matt LaBonte of Richards at the event, which takes place Friday and Saturday at St. Clair Bowl in O’Fallon.

McCarthy, who was an all-conference football player in the fall and was on the Knights’ baseball team that finished third in the state in Class 2A in the spring, nearly won the sectional title. He led the field at Laraway Lanes in New Lenox on Saturday after three games with a 723 but slipped in the fifth game with a 159 to finish second with a 1,352. Lincoln-Way Central’s Alex Nolan was the

champ with a 1,364.

“It was my third time making it to sectionals and it was my last chance to go to state,” he said.

STATEMENT “I figured I shouldn’t be nervous because I’ve been there before. I GAMES was bowling pretty well the whole year. I’ve been practicing my butt off the whole time. So I felt pretty confident about my chances.’’

Knights coach Andy Andrew said his daughter, Brianna, was the first girl to qualify for state at the school as she made it down in 2010, 2011 and 2012.

Andrew’s advice to McCarthy is to start out strong like he did Saturday.

See BOWLING, Page 2

Chicago Christian’s Matt McCarthy

Richards’ Matt LaBonte

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2

Section 2 Thursday, January 25, 2018

The Regional News - The Reporter

A WILD WEEK IN AREA PRO SOCCER

Who is coming, leaving and staying in Chicago

By Jeff Vorva Sports Editor

In one of the wildest offseason weeks in Chicago soccer history, the Fire and Red Stars wheeled and dealed and drafted to the point where fans heading to Toyota Park this season are going to need a program to tell who is who on these two teams.

Some big names are gone. Some new players will replace them. It’s not easy to sort through all of this and decide if these moves were good ideas or not. But here are some of those who are coming and leaving and, oh yes, a big name who is staying.

Leaving the Fire David Accam: One of the top goal scorers for the Fire over the past three years, the man known as “King David” was shipped to Philadelphia Friday for a combined $1.2 million in allocation money.

In 78 Major League soccer matches with the Fire, he scored 33 goals and had 15 assists.

Though he had some issues with coach Veljko Paunovic not naming him an All-Star last year, Accam was re-signed by the team and Fire General Manager Nelson Rodriguez said he had no immediate plans to part ways with Accam until Philadelphia showed great interest.

“In order to advance the building of our championship program and our game style a bold move was required,” Rodríguez said. “The assets we acquired give us the opportunity to accelerate toward that goal with greater flexibility. Philadelphia got a wonderful person and a player their fans will adore. We appreciate all of David’s efforts and wish him well.

“There is an element of risk with this trade. But we did what we felt was necessary.’’

Rodriguez said is hoping to add an international attacker or two with the money.

Matt Lampson: The goalie who beat cancer and became a great ambassador for the team and a pretty solid player was traded Friday to Minnesota along with $175,000 and the 15th SuperDraft pick for the fifth pick in the draft.

Jorge Bova: The Fire and the backup goalie to Lampson parted ways Thursday to allow him to return to Uruguay. So the Fire will be on the lookout for a new net minder.

Goalie Matt Lampson is heading to Atlanta.

Photo by USA Today Sports Images

Photo by Jeff Vorva

Popular Fire standout David Accam was traded to Philadelphia on Friday.

Coming to the Fire Rafael Ramos: The Fire traded away allocation money to Orlando City for this 23-year-old defender, who played in 39 MLS matches and notched five assists.

He is under contract for 2018 with an option for 2019.

Jon Bakero: Chicago nabbed him with the fifth pick in the SuperDraft and the Wake Forest star scored 16 goals and 14 assists and was the ACC Offensive Player of the Year his senior season.

Rodriguez said he could fit in nicely with Nemanja Nikolic, the MLS’s Golden Boot winner with a team-record 24 goals for the Fire in 2017.

Mo Adams: The Fire used some money to trade up with Real Salt Lake for the 10th pick and grabbed the Syracuse defensive star and member of the 2018 Generation adidas class. Rodriguez describes him as a “Bull Terrier.’’

Diego Campos: The Fire grabbed this Clemson star in the second round — 38th overall. He had 23 goals and 22 assists in 81 matches for the Tigers.

Elliot Collier: In the third round, the Fire picked up the Loyola University standout from New Zealand who had 15 goals and 11 assists in 69 games.

Josh Morton: The University of California defender came to the Fire in the fourth round.

Staying with the Fire

Bastian Schweinsteiger: Prior to Friday’s flurry of activity, the biggest news out of Fire camp was on Jan. 17, when the team announced the German star re-signed for 2018.

“Last year was special moment of my career,” he said. “But it felt incomplete without a trophy. But

Photo by Jeff Vorva

German star Bastian Schweinsteiger re-signed with the Fire for another season.

I’m sure we can create another memorable season with the support of our great fans. I love this city, sport and winning.’’

Leaving the Red Stars Christen Press: In a three-way trade with Houston and Sky Blue, one of the team’s most recognizable players was dealt and will head to Houston. Press, a U.S. Women’s National Team member, had 36 goals and six assists for the Red Stars in 62 games.

“For three and a half years, Christen did everything we asked her to do,” Red Stars coach Rory

Photo by Jeff Vorva

Christen Press was traded by the Red Stars to Houston in a three-team deal.

Dames said. “We can’t thank Christen enough for her time here, but we had run our course together and it was mutually agreed it was time.’’

Jen Hoy: She was shipped to Sky Blue in the deal and was on the Red Stars’ inaugural National Women’s Soccer League team and played almost 3,300 minutes at forward for the team. She had 15 goals and 10 assists in 77 games for Chicago.

Coming to the Red Stars Sam Kerr: Sky Blue’s talented forward came to Chicago in the three-team deal and she won the

NWSL’s Golden Boot Award and MVP award as she scored 17 times in 2017.

“Sam is a player that any team in the league would jump to get,’’ Dames said. “She is a young and eager forward that has proven to be one of the best in the world.’’

Nicki Stanton: Another Sky Blue player, Stanton played in 41 NWSL games.

Six draftees: The team picked up a half-dozen players in the NWSL College Draft including Naperville native Zoey Goralski and Schaumburg native Alexa Ben.

FOCUS ON AREA COLLEGES

AREA SPORTS REPORT

Steals and milestones in TCC’s win

Palumbo heads list of area wrestling champs

By Jeff Vorva

By Jeff Vorva

Sports Editor

Trinity Christian College’s Lauren Stokes went over the 1,000-point mark for her career and her women’s basketball teammates tied a school record with 31 steals in a 76-41 victory over Trinity International University on Saturday.

Celina Wanta had eight steals, Katie Moran six and Breanna Toppen five.

Stokes is the third player for the Trolls to pass the 1,000-point mark this season. Ally Giampapa and Wanta did it earlier in the season.

Men’s volleyball: The Trolls opened the season 1-1 at the Maranatha Baptist Triangular, beating the hosts in three sets but losing to Mt. Mercy in four. Eddie Binion and Zach Fitch each had 10 kills in the victory.

Moraine Valley Women’s basketball: Moraine dropped a Jan. 16 game against McHenry County College as the Cyclones lost 77-73. Kristin McGee led the team with 27 points, including 21 in the opening half. Ashley Hunter had 24 points and Creighton Fed, who was battling the flu, had 13 points, 12 rebounds three blocked shots and three steals in 24 minutes of work.

Men’s basketball: The Cyclones

whipped McHenry County College, 82-62 on Jan. 16 as David Gray popped in 23 points. Two days later, they beat Lake County, 83-75 as former Evergreen Park star Mike Drynan had 17 points, 17 rebounds and four blocks.

Softball: All full-time Moraine Valley students interested in playing softball can attend tryouts from 10 a.m. to noon Saturday in the Building G gym. Athletes need to have a physical before tryouts. For more information or any questions, contact Coach Scott Sobol at 708-415-7584 or ssobol4@ gmail.com.

Pack the Place: The school will host a Pack the Place night at 5:15 on Feb. 22 for both Cyclones’ basketball teams when they host Prairie State College.

The teams will play their final home games of the season, the cheerleading team will perform halftime routines and there will be drawings and giveaways.

St. Xavier Women’s basketball: The Cougars, ranked fourth in the nation, beat No. 18 St. Francis in Joliet, 62-51, on Jan. 17 and followed up with an 89-81 win over No. 17 Olivet Nazarene Saturday in Bourbonnais.

Kara Krolicki scored 18 points against St. Francis while Brittany Collins had 30 against Olivet. The Cougars entered this week 17-2 overall

Bowling

Continued from Page 1 “Like with the girls tournament, the place is packed and there are going to be a lot of good bowlers,” Andrew said.

“But after they bowl six games, there is a cut. They eliminate half the teams and they eliminate a boatload of individuals.

So Friday is pretty intense. If you don’t

tational.

He claimed the 100 butterfly in 57.28 seconds and the 100 back in :58.35.

Oak Lawn’s Alan Pryman was the only other local champ as he won the 500 free in 5:26.63.

Sports Editor

Photo by Jeff Vorva

Trinity Christian College’s Lauren Stokes went over the 1,000-point mark for her career on Saturday.

and 12-0 in the Chicagoland Collegiate Athletic Conference.

Men’s basketball: SXU won its fourth straight game with a 98-79 victory over Olivet Nazarene on Saturday as Quinn Niego led the team with 24 points. The Cougars were 13-8 overall and 7-5 in the CCAC after the game.

Men’s volleyball: The Cougars’ opening match was not against a cupcake as they faced Division III power Dominican and lost in three. Former Stagg standout Thomas Matonis and Jake Olson each had four kills.

bowl well in the morning, you could pretty much be done.’’

McCormick finished fourth with a 1,320 and earned a trip to O’Fallon for the first time. The junior recalled 2016 state qualifier (who finished 15th in the state), 2017 regional champion and teammate Shaun Quinn missing on a second straight trip to state and knew how tough it was to get to this plateau.

“It means a heck of a lot to me,” he

Wrestling is a male-dominated sport, but Richards’ Mia Palumbo is still enjoying success.

Palumbo won the 106-pound division of the South Suburban meet on Saturday at Shepard High School. She beat Jack McDonald of Reavis, 3-0, in the championship match. With regionals starting up on Feb. 3, it will be interesting to see where she will be seeded and how far she can advance.

Shepard’s Sherman Dixon (160) was the only other area champion in the event.

Oak Forest won with 186 points and Richards took third with 112.

At the Tom Lahey Tournament at Stagg, Sandburg’s Pat Nolan (132) and Nate Goodman (195) plus Stagg’s Domenic Zaccone (120) and Peter Radev (160) were champions.

In the Catholic League Meet at Mount Carmel, Brother Rice’s Myles Ruffin (285) earned a title.

said. “I’m just happy to get there and will be happy with whatever I do. I knew I was in the running and I just killed it at the end. I threw a 258 in the last game (on Saturday) and medaled with it.”

LaBonte has state experience. Two years ago, he won the Illinois Elementary School Association state championship and this is his first foray into the IHSA finals.

He rolled a 1,239 Saturday and earned

Hills Baseball Softball registration

Supplied photo

Mia Palumbo of Richards won a conference wrestling title at 106 pounds Saturday.

Schrader takes third in conference Sandburg’s Emily Schrader finished third in the SouthWest Suburban meet at Brunswick Zone in Woodridge on Saturday with a 1,261 in six games.

The Eagles finished fourth.

Vis wins two events Chicago Christian doesn’t have a boys swimming team but Josiah Vis swam unattached and won two events at the 12-team Shepard Invi-

the final qualifying slot by four pins.

“I just picked up my spares and made sure I got my balls to the pocket. It’s a hard bowling alley, and I was just listening to coach (Kari Vanderjack).

“It (finding out he made the cut for state) was very overwhelming. I have a lot of gratitude to get the results for how hard I’ve worked. It’s a very big accomplishment. I didn’t make it last year, so I’m looking forward to going

The Hills Baseball Softball Association will have a registration Feb. 14 from 5 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at the Hickory Hills Community Center, 7800 W. 89th Place in Hickory Hills.

For more information, contact Johnny Rivas at 708-2961974.

PBO registration There is still time to register for the 2018 Palos Baseball Organization season.

PBO offers a quality youth baseball program designed to provide an environment where players can learn and develop fundamentals, skills, teamwork and good sportsmanship Please see the PBO website: www.palosbaseball.org for more details on the registration.

up against the tough competition.”

One of the biggest surprises in the area is that Sandburg, a team that qualified for state three years in a row, did not make the cut, nor did talented Eagles junior Cameron Crowe, who finished 39th in the state as a freshman and 16th as a sophomore.

Randy Whalen contributed to this report.

The Regional News - The Reporter

Thursday, January 25, 2018 Section 2

3

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

W-L 12-8 10-8 8-10 18-2 12-6 7-11 12-5 10-6 15-6 5-12

STREAK L2 W1 W2 L1 W2 L2 W2 W2 W3 L5

NEXT at St. Joseph, Fri.; at Tinley Park, Tues. hosts Timothy Christian, Fri. at Oak Lawn, Fri., vs. TBA at Beecher Shootout, Sat.; host Hancock, Tues. hosts Joliet Catholic Academy, Fri.; at St. Rita, Tues. hosts Evergreen Park, Fri.; vs. TBA at Beecher Shootout, Sat. hosts Eisenhower, Fri.; at Stagg, Tues. at H-F, Fri.; vs. TBA at L-Way W. Warrior Showdown, Sat.; at Plainfield S., Tues. hosts Argo, Fri.; hosts Peotone, Mon.; hosts Universal, Tues. hosts Bishop McNamara, Fri.; at Conant, Tues. hosts Lockport, Fri.; hosts Richards, Tues.

Madelyn McGrath and her Oak Lawn teammates pulled off a big win over Richards last week and they will visit Shepard tonight (Thursday).

Photo by Jeff Vorva

* Records through Sunday, Jan. 21; compiled by Randy Whalen

GIRLS Chicago Christian Evergreen Park Marist Mother McAuley Oak Lawn Richards Sandburg Shepard St. Laurence Stagg

W-L 8-13 20-2 16-4 17-6 12-8 15-4 9-12 6-13 11-11 13-6

STREAK L1 W14 W2 W1 W2 L1 L1 L1 L1 W1

NEXT hosts Walther Christian, Thurs.; at Elmwood Park, Tues. hosts Eisenhower, Thurs.; at Richards, Tues. hosts Marian Catholic, Sat.; at Maine West, Mon.; at Marian Central Cath., Wed. hosts De La Salle, Thurs.; hosts Regina, Sat. at Shepard, Thurs.; at Reavis, Tues. hosts Agricultural Science, Thurs.; hosts Evergreen Park, Tues. at Bolingbrook, Thurs.; hosts Lincoln-Way East, Tues. hosts Oak Lawn, Thurs. at Kennedy, Thurs.; at Catalyst Maria, Tues. hosts Homewood-Flossmoor, Thurs.; at Bolingbrook, Tues.

* Records through Sunday, Jan. 21; compiled by Randy Whalen

FOCUS ON BOYS BASKETBALL

Marist positions itself for 30-win season

By Jeff Vorva Sports Editor

Photos by Jeff Vorva

Evergreen Park’s Nyssa Wagner (left) and Argo’s Montserrat Tovar chase down a loose ball during a South Suburban Conference Red battle in Summit.

FOCUS ON GIRLS BASKETBALL

Argo grabs upper hand in SSC Red race

By Jeff Vorva

1 and Loyola at 1 p.m. Feb. 3.

Sports Editor

Oak Lawn

Continued from Page 1 Friday. The remaining conference schedule finds the Spartans hosting Shepard Feb. 9, hosting Reavis Feb. 13, visiting Eisenhower Feb. 16 and visiting Argo Feb. 23.

Richards’s remaining conference schedule finds the Bulldogs

Planting the seeds Seeding for Class 1A and 2A postseason tournaments will be announced today (Thursday) by the Illinois High School Association.

Chicago Christian is the lone Class 2A school in the area and will be hosting the sectional semifinals and finals.

Class 3A and 4A seeds will be announced Feb. 1.

Working overtime again Sandburg suffered a heartbreaking 67-57 overtime loss to Bolingbrook on Jan. 5 in SouthWest Suburban Conference Blue action and the following weekend, Bolingbrook stunned Morgan Park.

The Eagles broke some hearts of their own when

Photo by Jeff Vorva

Coach Gene Nolan talks to his Marist starters before a Jan. 16 game against Brother Rice. The RedHawks have put themselves in a position where winning 30 games could be a reality.

THE MAGNIFICENT SEVEN A look at area boys basketball teams with 28 or more wins in a season: Team Record Years Coach Oak Lawn* 30-3 1970-71 Len Scaduto Richards* 30-4 2007-08 John Chappetto St. Laurence 29-4 1976-77 Chuck Schwarz Chicago Christian 28-1 1971-72 Will Slager Richards 28-2 1997-98 Jack Fitzgerald Chicago Christian 28-2 1974-75 Will Slager Chicago Christian 28-2 1982-83 Will Slager * — state championship teams

they knocked off host Lockport 62-56 in overtime Friday night in a league game. Marvin Agwomoh led the Eagles with 12 points while Kevin McShane had 16 and Jake Pygon 13.

It keeps the Eagles’ slim chances for a conference title alive as they are 2-2 in league play.

Bolingbrook is the leader with a 4-0 mark while Lincoln-Way East and Homewood-Flossmoor are each 3-1.

Beecher feature Beecher High School hosts its inaugural Josh Baumgartner State Farm Shootout on Saturday and two area teams will take part in the event.

Oak Lawn takes on St. Francis De Sales at 1:30 p.m. and Evergreen Park plays in the sixth and final game of the shootout with a battle against Lincoln-Way Central at 7:30 p.m.

BRIDGEVIEW

Argo’s all-time leading scorer Chatori Tyler (right) is defended by Evergreen Park’s Alandria Frison during a 3-point attempt in Argo’s win Thursday night. Tyler led the Argonauts with 20 points despite going scoreless in the first period.

make a trip to the Chicago school over the weekend.

Evergreen Park had been ranked eighth in the state in the Associated Press poll for three straight weeks and headed into the game with a 13-game winning streak. Shots were not falling for the Mustangs but Kacey Gardner had 12 points while Emma O’Grady and Nyssa Wagner each had 10.

Earlier in the week, the Mustangs beat Hillcrest — 52-35 — for the first time in coach Bruce Scaduto’s seven years at the helm.

“We had a good week,” Scaduto said. “But if we beat Argo, it would have been an awesome week.’’

Tournament time Mother McAuley hosts four games in the Girls Catholic Athletic Conference Red Tournament, which begins today (Thursday).

The Mighty Macs host De La Salle at 6 p.m. to kick things off.

They host Regina Saturday at 1 p.m., St. Ignatius at 6 p.m. on Feb.

hosting Eisenhower on Friday, visiting Argo Feb. 2, visiting Evergreen Park Feb. 13, visiting Shepard Feb. 16 and hosting Reavis Feb. 23.

Shepard is also going to have a say in all of this and the Astros host Argo Friday night, visit Evergreen Park on Feb. 2, visit Oak Lawn Feb. 9, host Richards Feb. 16 and visit Eisenhower Feb. 23.

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The South Suburban Conference Red race is far from over, but on paper Argo girls’ basketball team has a huge upper hand to win its third straight title.

After going through the SSC Blue teams unblemished in crossover games, the Argonauts took on the only other unbeaten league squad — Evergreen Park — in the Red and won 51-42 Thursday night in Summit.

Heading into this week’s action, Argo was 9-0 and Evergreen Park 7-1. Richards figured to be in the mix as well, but when it dropped a 53-39 game to crosstown rival Oak Lawn, that put the Bulldogs in a hole. Oak Lawn improved to 5-4 with the win but the Spartans might be too far out to capture its first SSC Red title since 2013-14.

The Argo-EP showdown started with some intrigue as the Mustangs held a 10-9 lead over the Argonauts and held their all-time leading scorer, senior Chatori Tyler, scoreless in the first eight minutes.

But the Argonauts righted their ship in the second quarter with a barrage of scoring and took a 3116 halftime lead and never looked back. Tyler, who has more than 1,700 career points, finished with 20 while junior Tadriana Heard, who surpassed the 1,000-point mark in late December, added 15.

Argo coach Dan McCarthy said that before this dynamic duo hit its stride, Argo never had a girls player hit 1,000 points.

Tyler said that one other time this season she was held scoreless in an opening quarter.

“I wasn’t getting frustrated because we were playing good defense against Evergreen Park,” Tyler said. “Scoring wasn’t the main priority. It was to get back on defense and stop their players.’’

Tyler was able to show off her skills on both ends of the court to help her team and herself, as Roosevelt University was scouting in the stands and she had planned to

Don’t look now, but Marist’s boys basketball team has a chance to make some more history.

While coach Gene Nolan is not one to look past the next game his Redhawks are about to play, star senior Morgan Taylor admits the team is thinking big.

“Our goals are limitless,” he said. “As long as the coaches believe in us and we believe in each other, we can do almost anything we want.’’

Last year Nolan called his 27-4 team “the best team to come through Marist” and losing key players through graduation and transfers didn’t appear to bode well for this season.

Despite that, the RedHawks enter this week with an 18-2 record with its only blemishes coming in the semifinals of the Centralia Holiday Tournament, where they lost to Champaign Central, 57-51, and Friday, when they dropped a 69-63 overtime thriller to Benet at home.

There are eight more games on the schedule and if the RedHawks can run the table, they would have a 26-2 mark heading into the postseason. If they could win regional and sectional titles, the RedHawks would win 30 games, which would tie an area record.

Oak Lawn’s 1970-71 team and Richards’ 200708 teams each won 30 games during their state championship seasons. Running the table won’t be easy, however. A non-conference game at St. Rita looms Tuesday. Conference games against Notre Dame, St. Viator and St. Patrick will figure to be daunting.

While he’s not making predictions, Nolan likes what he sees out of the RedHawks so far.

“These players know their roles well and they like each other,” he said. “I hope it shows on the floor because we certainly see it.’’

Even if the RedHawks can’t get to 30, this could be one of the winningest teams in area history.

Aside from the two 30-game winners, five more teams either won 28 or 29 games in a season.

H

73rd Pl. 74th St. 74th Pl.

75th St.

4

Section 2 Thursday, January 25, 2018

The Regional News - The Reporter

A look at a gold medal celebration at McAuley

Mother McAuley Principal Eileen Boyce walks through an empty hallway (left photo) on Thursday morning minutes before a celebration for sophomore hockey player Abbey Murphy. The same hallway filled quickly for the start of the golf cart parade (right).

Photos by Jeff Vorva

Abbey Murphy (left in golf cart) was driven through the halls of Mother McAuley as a part of a celebration in her honor.

Students at Mother McAuley decked out in red, white and blue for the celebration of USA U18 gold medal winner Abbey Murphy on Tuesday.

Oak Lawn’s Blouzdis is a driving force during parades

By Jeff Vorva Sports Editor

Oak Lawn’s Beth Blouzdis has become Mother McAuley’s designated driver.

Students at the Chicago school with big accomplishments get paraded around the school in a golf cart while students line the hallways and cheer.

Over the past decade, one common denominator with the golf cart parade has been the driver – Blouzdis, who is the school’s building manager.

“Whenever our volleyball team goes down state or any other accomplishment, we usually have a cart ride,” Blouzdis said. “It never gets old. I have a lot of fun doing it. It’s great.

I’ve been here a long time and I’ve been here for 28 years.

“I wasn’t the driver at the beginning, but I’ve been doing it for the past 10 years. It’s been fun. I get a kick out of the girls. They make it interesting.’’

The latest ride came Thursday when sophomore Abbey Murphy, a gold medal winner from the USA International Ice Hockey Federation Women’s Word Championship, was carted around.

Murphy, an Evergreen Park resident, said she has seen golf cart parades in the past but never imagined a scenario in which she would be seated to Blouzdis’s right in the cart.

“It was a lot of fun but I had some nerves at the beginning,” Murphy said.

“But all of these girls are awesome. I think this one was the loudest though, with all of the ‘U.S.A.’ chants.’’

Vorva

Continued from Page 1 She has already committed to a powerhouse hockey college – Minnesota. She got that out of the way last year as a freshman.

And she doesn’t even have a driver’s license yet.

Let’s not put her in the 2022 Olympics yet, but that is one of her long-term goals.

Oak Lawn’s Beth Blouzdis (in cart, right) waves to the crowd as she drives guest of honor Abbey Murphy during a parade in the school halls on Thursday.

She said she would love to be able to be teammates with Palos Heights’ Kendall Coyne, who will playing in her second Olympics in February.

But Murphy is taking things “stepby-step” and the road to nationals is her next mission with the Mission. After that, she is weighing playing lacrosse for the Mighty Macs this spring in the historic first year the Illinois High Association sanctioned the sport.

Let’s go back to Russia.

Murphy said this was her first taste of international competition and she is not a big fan of plane rides.

After a nine-hour plane ride, the team settled in and on Jan. 6, it played Sweden.

Murphy scored a goal in regulation and the USA sweated out a 2-1 overtime victory. The next day, the team faced host Russia and won 5-3 but she did not score.

On Jan. 9, the team roughed up rival Canada, 6-2, and Murphy scored a late

goal. Three days later, the USA beat Canada 4-3 in a shootout in the semifinals to set up a rematch with Sweden for the gold.

Murphy scored her third and fourth goals in the tournament and added an assist in a surprisingly easy 9-3 victory.

“As you get further into the tournament, you become more of a family,” Murphy said. “Our final day was our best day and we played our best game.’’

The 5-foot-4, 125-pound Murphy said

she wasn’t intimidated by the older players.

“Some of those girls are huge,’’ she said. “But you have to compete at your best. You go out and play and hope you can play better than them.’’

Murphy said the whole experience was a “blast.”

“It’s an honor to represent your country and to have all of those teammates at your side while you are doing it,” she said.

“And it’s an honor to represent all of the players that have done it before you.’’

The Regional News - The Reporter

The Reporter Newspapers Call 448-6161 Deadline 5 p.m. Monday Hours M-F 9 to 5

Thursday, January 25, 2018 Section 2

Get Fast Action

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Property Listings

Houses For Sale

Houses For Sale

Houses For Sale

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

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT - CHANCERY DIVISION PNC BANK, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION Plaintiff, -v.MICHAEL K. MISHLER, AS EXECUTOR OF THE ESTATE OF WAYNE D. CONNOLLY, UNKNOWN HEIRS AND LEGATEES OF WAYNE D. CONNOLLY, THE EARL CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION, MICHAEL K. MISHLER, MARK T. LINDEMANN, ANTHONY J. LINDEMANN, THOMAS J. LINDEMANN, RALPH K. LINDEMANN, UNKNOWN OWNERS AND NONRECORD CLAIMANTS Defendants 17 CH 008673 9748 MILL DRIVE EAST # 1E PALOS PARK, IL 60464 NOTICE OF SALE PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above cause on October 19, 2017, an agent for The Judicial Sales Corporation, will at 10:30 AM on March 2, 2018, at The Judicial Sales Corporation, One South Wacker Drive, CHICAGO, IL, 60606, sell at public auction to the highest bidder, as set forth below, the following described real estate: Commonly known as 9748 MILL DRIVE EAST # 1E, PALOS PARK, IL 60464 Property Index No. 23-33-209-031-1021.

The real estate is improved with a residence.

Sale terms: 25% down of the highest bid by certified funds at the close of the sale payable to The Judicial Sales Corporation. No third party checks will be accepted. The balance in certified funds/ or wire transfer, is due within twenty-four (24) hours. The subject property is subject to general real estate taxes, special assessments, or special taxes levied against said real estate and is offered for sale without any representation as to quality or quantity of title and without recourse to Plaintiff and in “AS IS” condition. The sale is further subject to confirmation by the court.

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

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

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

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

For information, examine the court file or contact Plaintiff’s attorney: CODILIS & ASSOCIATES, P.C., 15W030 NORTH FRONTAGE ROAD, SUITE 100, BURR RIDGE, IL 60527, (630) 794-9876 Please refer to file number 14-17-09030.

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.

CODILIS & ASSOCIATES, P.C. 15W030 NORTH FRONTAGE ROAD, SUITE 100 BURR RIDGE, IL 60527 (630) 794-5300 E-Mail: pleadings@il.cslegal.com Attorney File No. 14-17-09030 Attorney ARDC No. 00468002 Attorney Code. 21762 Case Number: 17 CH 008673 TJSC#: 37-9733 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.

I3072246

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT - CHANCERY DIVISION JPMORGAN CHASE BANK, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION Plaintiff, -v.MARY ABRAHAM, PHILIP MATHEW, KGH CONSULTATION & TREATMENT, INC. Defendants 14 CH 009103 11838 CALIFORNIA TRAIL ORLAND PARK, IL 60467 NOTICE OF SALE PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above cause on January 15, 2016, an agent for The Judicial Sales Corporation, will at 10:30 AM on February 8, 2018, at The Judicial Sales Corporation, One South Wacker Drive, CHICAGO, IL, 60606, sell at public auction to the highest bidder, as set forth below, the following described real estate: Commonly known as 11838 CALIFORNIA TRAIL, ORLAND PARK, IL 60467 Property Index No. 27-06-110-004.

The real estate is improved with a single family residence.

Sale terms: 25% down of the highest bid by certified funds at the close of the sale payable to The Judicial Sales Corporation. No third party checks will be accepted. The balance in certified funds/ or wire transfer, is due within twenty-four (24) hours. The subject property is subject to general real estate taxes, special assessments, or special taxes levied against said real estate and is offered for sale without any representation as to quality or quantity of title and without recourse to Plaintiff and in “AS IS” condition. The sale is further subject to confirmation by the court.

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

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

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

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

For information, examine the court file or contact Plaintiff’s attorney: CODILIS & ASSOCIATES, P.C., 15W030 NORTH FRONTAGE ROAD, SUITE 100, BURR RIDGE, IL 60527, (630) 794-9876 Please refer to file number 14-13-33027.

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.

CODILIS & ASSOCIATES, P.C. 15W030 NORTH FRONTAGE ROAD, SUITE 100 BURR RIDGE, IL 60527 (630) 794-5300 E-Mail: pleadings@il.cslegal.com Attorney File No. 14-13-33027 Attorney ARDC No. 00468002 Attorney Code. 21762 Case Number: 14 CH 009103 TJSC#: 38-33 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.

I3072855

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT - CHANCERY DIVISION WELLS FARGO BANK, N.A. Plaintiff, -v.PATRICIA A. TRACEY, CARRIAGE WAY CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION Defendants 14 CH 010995 5704 128TH STREET UNIT #1C CRESTWOOD, IL 60445 NOTICE OF SALE PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above cause on March 30, 2015, an agent for The Judicial Sales Corporation, will at 10:30 AM on February 13, 2018, at The Judicial Sales Corporation, One South Wacker Drive, CHICAGO, IL, 60606, sell at public auction to the highest bidder, as set forth below, the following described real estate: Commonly known as 5704 128TH STREET UNIT #1C, CRESTWOOD, IL 60445 Property Index No. 24-32-208-010-1003.

The real estate is improved with a condo/townhouse.

Sale terms: 25% down of the highest bid by certified funds at the close of the sale payable to The Judicial Sales Corporation. No third party checks will be accepted. The balance in certified funds/ or wire transfer, is due within twenty-four (24) hours. The subject property is subject to general real estate taxes, special assessments, or special taxes levied against said real estate and is offered for sale without any representation as to quality or quantity of title and without recourse to Plaintiff and in “AS IS” condition. The sale is further subject to confirmation by the court.

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

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

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

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

For information, examine the court file or contact Plaintiff’s attorney: CODILIS & ASSOCIATES, P.C., 15W030 NORTH FRONTAGE ROAD, SUITE 100, BURR RIDGE, IL 60527, (630) 794-9876 Please refer to file number 14-14-12194.

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.

CODILIS & ASSOCIATES, P.C. 15W030 NORTH FRONTAGE ROAD, SUITE 100 BURR RIDGE, IL 60527 (630) 794-5300 E-Mail: pleadings@il.cslegal.com Attorney File No. 14-14-12194 Attorney ARDC No. 00468002 Attorney Code. 21762 Case Number: 14 CH 010995 TJSC#: 37-11367 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.

I3072917

U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION Plaintiff, -v.MATTHEW J. HAJER, SECRETARY OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT, ILLINOIS HOUSING DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY Defendants 2017 CH 8792 9238 S. 49TH CT Oak Lawn, IL 60453 NOTICE OF SALE PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above cause on December 4, 2017, an agent for The Judicial Sales Corporation, will at 10:30 AM on March 6, 2018, at The Judicial Sales Corporation, One South Wacker Drive, CHICAGO, IL, 60606, sell at public auction to the highest bidder, as set forth below, the following described real estate: Commonly known as 9238 S. 49TH CT, Oak Lawn, IL 60453 Property Index No. 24-04-428-021-0000.

The real estate is improved with a single family residence.

The judgment amount was $94,990.66.

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

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

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

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

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

For information, contact Plaintiff s attorney: MARINOSCI LAW GROUP, P.C., 134 N LaSalle St., STE 1900, Chicago, IL 60602, (312) 940-8580 Please refer to file number 17-07814.

THE JUDICIAL SALES CORPORATION One South Wacker Drive, 24th Floor, Chicago, IL 60606-4650 (312) 236-SALE You can also visit The Judicial Sales Corporation at www.tjsc.com for a 7 day status report of pending sales.

MARINOSCI LAW GROUP, P.C. 134 N LaSalle St., STE 1900 Chicago, IL 60602 (312) 940-8580 E-Mail: mlgil@mlg-defaultlaw.com Attorney File No. 17-07814 Attorney Code. 59049 Case Number: 2017 CH 8792 TJSC#: 38-185 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.

Houses For Sale IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT - CHANCERY DIVISION HSBC BANK USA, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE FOR FREMONT HOME LOAN TRUST 2005-D, MORTGAGE-BACKED CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2005-D; Plaintiff, vs.

MARJORIE D. ADAMS; WAYNE A. ADAMS; CITIBANK, N.A.; DIRECTOR OF EMPLOYMENT SECURITY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS; ILLINOIS DEPARTMENT OF REVENUE; FIA CARD SERVICES, N.A.; VILLAGE OF ARLINGTON HEIGHTS; MARJORIE D. ADAMS AS TRUSTEE OF THE VICTORIA LAND TRUST; UNKNOWN HEIRS AND LEGATEES OF MARJORIE D. ADAMS, IF ANY; UNKNOWN HEIRS AND LEGATEES OF WAYNE A. ADAMS, IF ANY; UNKNOWN OWNERS AND NON RECORD CLAIMANTS; Defendants, 15 CH 12854 NOTICE OF SALE PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above entitled cause Intercounty Judicial Sales Corporation will on Monday, February 26, 2018 at the hour of 11 a.m. in their office at 120 West Madison Street, Suite 718A, Chicago, Illinois, sell at public auction to the highest bidder for cash, as set forth below, the following described mortgaged real estate: P.I.N. 23-27-402-007-0000.

Commonly known as 12401 South 91st Avenue, Palos Park, IL 60464.

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 the Sales Clerk at Plaintiff’s Attorney, The Wirbicki Law Group, 33 West Monroe Street, Chicago, Illinois 60603. (312) 360-9455 WA15-0500.

INTERCOUNTY JUDICIAL SALES CORPORATION Selling Officer, (312) 444-1122 I3073939

The Regional News Call 448-4000 Deadline 5 p.m. Monday Hours M-F 9 to 5

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5 ACRES

Houses For Sale IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT - CHANCERY DIVISION FEDERAL NATIONAL MORTGAGE ASSOCIATION Plaintiff, -v.RAME JOUDEH, NOWAL JUDEH, FOUNTAIN HILLS OF ORLAND PARK HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATION Defendants 15 CH 06040 18038 BUCKINGHAM DRIVE ORLAND PARK, IL 60467 NOTICE OF SALE PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above cause on September 26, 2017, an agent for The Judicial Sales Corporation, will at 10:30 AM on February 20, 2018, at The Judicial Sales Corporation, One South Wacker Drive, CHICAGO, IL, 60606, sell at public auction to the highest bidder, as set forth below, the following described real estate: Commonly known as 18038 BUCKINGHAM DRIVE, ORLAND PARK, IL 60467 Property Index No. 27-32-308-010-0000.

The real estate is improved with a tan brick, single family home, with an attached two car garage.

Sale terms: 25% down of the highest bid by certified funds at the close of the sale payable to The Judicial Sales Corporation. No third party checks will be accepted. The balance in certified funds/ or wire transfer, is due within twenty-four (24) hours. The subject property is subject to general real estate taxes, special assessments, or special taxes levied against said real estate and is offered for sale without any representation as to quality or quantity of title and without recourse to Plaintiff and in “AS IS” condition. The sale is further subject to confirmation by the court.

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

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

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

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

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

McCalla Raymer Leibert Pierce, LLC, Plaintiff’s Attorneys, One North Dearborn Street, Suite 1200, Chicago, IL 60602. Tel No. (312) 416-5500. Please refer to file number 13698.

THE JUDICIAL SALES CORPORATION One South Wacker Drive, 24th Floor, Chicago, IL 60606-4650 (312) 236-SALE You can also visit The Judicial Sales Corporation at www.tjsc.com for a 7 day status report of pending sales.

McCalla Raymer Leibert Pierce, LLC One North Dearborn Street, Suite 1200 Chicago, IL 60602 (312) 416-5500 E-Mail: pleadings@mccalla.com Attorney File No. 13698 Attorney Code. 61256 Case Number: 15 CH 06040 TJSC#: 37-11274 I3073476

HAVE A HOUSE FOR SALE? PLACE YOUR AD TODAY! CALL 448-4000 OR 448-6161

RT. 45 IN PEOTONE 600 ft. frontage x 400 ft. deep 40 ft. x 60 ft. pole barn CALL 815-450-0004 Houses For Sale IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT - CHANCERY DIVISION NATIONSTAR MORTGAGE LLC; Plaintiff, vs.

FRANCESCO ROSELLI, AS PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE OF THE ESTATE OF MARCO ROSELLI, DECEASED; Defendants, 17 CH 5914 NOTICE OF SALE PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above entitled cause Intercounty Judicial Sales Corporation will on Wednesday, February 21, 2018 at the hour of 11 a.m. in their office at 120 West Madison Street, Suite 718A, Chicago, Illinois, sell at public auction to the highest bidder for cash, as set forth below, the following described mortgaged real estate: P.I.N. 23-14-209-007-0000.

Commonly known as 10523 South 80th Court, Palos Hills, IL 60465.

The mortgaged real estate is improved with a single family residence. If the subject mortgaged real estate is a unit of a common interest community, the purchaser of the unit other than a mortgagee shall pay the assessments required by subsection (g-1) of Section 18.5 of the Condominium Property Act. Sale terms: 10% down by certified funds, balance, by certified funds, within 24 hours. No refunds. The property will NOT be open for inspection.

For information call Sales Department at Plaintiff’s Attorney, Manley Deas Kochalski, LLC, One East Wacker Drive, Chicago, Illinois 60601. (614) 2205611. 17-013436 F2 INTERCOUNTY JUDICIAL SALES CORPORATION Selling Officer, (312) 444-1122 I3073153

Houses For Sale IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT - CHANCERY DIVISION BANK OF AMERICA, N.A.; Plaintiff, vs.

JOAN RUNDLE; UNKNOWN OWNERS AND NON RECORD CLAIMANTS; ORLAN BROOK CONDOMINIUM OWNERS’ ASSOCIATION; UNKNOWN SUCCESSOR TRUSTEE (S), UNDER THE TERMS AND PROVISIONS OF A CERTAIN TRUST AGREEMENT DATED APRIL 28, 2014 AND DESIGNATED AS THE RUNDLE LAND TRUST; Defendants, 17 CH 7342 NOTICE OF SALE PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above entitled cause Intercounty Judicial Sales Corporation will on Monday, March 5, 2018 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. 27-14-302-018-1097 and 27-14-302-0181198.

Commonly known as 15713 Orlan Brook Drive, Unit Number 97, Orland Park, IL 60462.

The mortgaged real estate is improved with a condominium residence. The purchaser of the unit other than a mortgagee shall pay the assessments and the legal fees required by subdivisions (g) (1) and (g)(4) of Section 9 of the Condominium Property Act Sale terms: 10% down by certified funds, balance, by certified funds, within 24 hours. No refunds. The property will NOT be open for inspection.

For information call Sales Department at Plaintiff’s Attorney, Manley Deas Kochalski, LLC, One East Wacker Drive, Chicago, Illinois 60601. (614) 2205611. 17-017501 F2 INTERCOUNTY JUDICIAL SALES CORPORATION Selling Officer, (312) 444-1122 I3074641

6

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Section 2

7

A beginner’s guide to clearing your mind with meditation

By Jackson A. Thomas

How smartphone addiction may negatively change brain function

By Jackson A. Thomas Smartphones can be used for just about anything — ordering dinner, checking the news, booking a cab — all through a quick swipe. Just ask Susan Walter, who mainly uses hers to snap pictures and check her social media.

“I am on my phone about every half- hour looking at social media apps,” says Walter, a restaurant server in suburban Cleveland. “I normally have it in my purse or in my pocket, so I know where it is at all times.”

Although she has never worried about misplacing her device, Walter says if she lost it, she wouldn’t be too upset. “I would, however, say I am addicted to my phone,” she says. “I do feel the need to check it often, even if it’s just scrolling through social media.”

Cell phone addiction has been on the rise, according to several surveys. And a new study has added some fuel to the fire, revealing that smartphone and internet addiction may be harmful to the mind.

Dialing in the results

The study, presented in late 2017 by the Radiological Society of North America, indicates cell phone addiction may negatively affect brain functioning.

Known as “nomophobia”, it is “a debilitating and irrational fear of being separated from your smartphone,” says Dr. Jay Jagannathan, a board-certified neurologist based in Detroit. “Many people refer to nomophobia by

SMARTPHONE ADDICTION:

BY THE NUMBERS

According 2017 data from the Pew Research Center, 95% of Americans own and use cellphones, with 77% having smartphones, which is up from 35% in the center’s first survey of smartphone ownership conducted in 2011. According to 2016 data from Common Sense Media, 50% of teens and 27% of parents feel addicted to their devices. Sixty-nine percent of parents and 78% of teens check their devices hourly.

calling it cell phone addiction, as any parent with teenagers can attest. Nomophobia likely has a linear relationship with the growing functionality — and our overreliance — on smartphones.”

Study researchers found that teen boys addicted to their smartphones had significantly higher levels of gamma-aminobutyric acid, a neuron-depressing neurotransmitter in the cortex.

“In normal test subjects, the results showed the opposite — regular levels of glutamate-glutamine, which is a neurotransmitter that energizes the signals within the brain,” Jagannathan says. “To break it down, cellphone addicts’ altered brain chemistry shows lowered levels of attention, focus and control. Their brains were shown to be much more susceptible to distraction and inattentiveness.”

The research shows who’s most likely to develop this phobia: young adults ages 17 to 24. “This is a growing area of medical study,” Jagannathan says.

“Published results so far haven’t

yet been peer-reviewed and have included small sample groups.

For many of these young adults, they’ve never experienced a world without smartphones.”

Putting down the phone

Dr. Michael V. Genovese, chief medical adviser at Acadia Healthcare in the San Francisco Bay area, says for some people nomophobia can lead to anxiety, insomnia and isolation. In addition to altering brain function and slower GABA levels, he says, smartphone addiction can also cause “text neck,” poor posture and disruption of melatonin production.

Jagannathan says steps can and should be taken to fight this phobia, which include setting “parameters of use, tapering down the time we spend engaging with our smartphones and replacing screen time with normal activities, such as spending quality time with others.”

Genovese says to follow five general recommendations. “Turn off your cell-phone at least an hour before bed,” he says. “Use a real alarm clock instead of your cellphone, as it will help you forget about it. Set certain times to check your phone. Establish phone-free zones. And engage in real human contact.”

Walter admits she wasn’t aware nomophobia existed. And although she frequently uses her smartphone, “I definitely don’t have that phobia,” she says. “I have actually been trying to use my phone less!”

Whether you’re struggling to get the kids to school on time or juggling multiple projects at work, daily distractions are everywhere.

And the added pressures can take a toll on your health. This is where meditation can lift some of that weight off your shoulders and help turn your attention toward focusing on the present moment.

“We should meditate as a way of counterbalancing the inevitable stress we all encounter on a daily basis,” says Light Watkins, who has been practicing and teaching meditation since 1998 and is based in Venice, California.

“Stress makes us mentally foggy, physically sleepy, and we become poor decision-makers, opting for short-term solutions at the expense of long-term consequences.”

Research shows the benefits of a regular meditation practice are seemingly endless when it comes to our health. So take a deep breath, close your eyes and discover how this practice can help you find your center and a sense of clarity.

Breathing long, beating strong

Meditation may improve certain health problems and promote healthy behaviors, says Wen G. Chen, a program director at the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health at the National Institutes of Health.

“Some research suggests it may reduce blood pressure, symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome, pain, stress, anxiety and depression, eating behaviors and insomnia,” Chen says. “A number of studies have also helped researchers understand how meditation can physically change the brain and body.”

From a physical perspective, evidence shows meditation may help keep the heart strong. Tension can build up on the heart throughout the day, says Gopikumar Subramoniam, a yoga instructor in suburban Cleveland.

“The heart takes about 0.2 seconds for a compression and 0.3 seconds for rest,” he says. “During the day, due to stressful situations, the desired rest period does not happen, and the heart works harder without the necessary rest period,

and stress builds up on our body and mind.”

When we sleep well, the body recovers from the rest we get during sleep and we are ready for another day, according to Subramoniam. Those who don’t get adequate sleep tend to suffer more from stress-related issues.

“By meditating, we are helping the body consciously to rest and relax,” he says. “Meditating for at least 20 minutes will the give the body the benefit of six hours of sound sleep. The mind is like a monkey — always jumping from one thought to another. Meditation helps in slowing down this chatter, and we will experience short periods of ‘no-thought mind.’

That’s when the healing happens.”

Holistic benefits may lead to greater peace, calmness, clarity and attention. It fosters better self-awareness for the mind and body, says Michele Patestides, a mindfulness expert and instructor at Beacon College in Leesburg, Florida, who works with students who have learning disabilities.

“When we slow down and meditate, we become more aware, moment to moment, of the state of our body and mind,” Patestides says. “It can be a real wake-up call.

As we become more experienced in meditation, we learn to notice physical sensations and thoughts without judgment while also releasing them and letting them go.

I’ve experienced this personally in dealing with and managing pain from cancer treatment, osteoarthritis and fibromyalgia. It’s not a silver bullet but a complementary approach that can be helpful.”

Patestides says some of her students notice the benefits after about three sessions. “We just completed our student surveys, and some of their comments included: ‘I am able to manage my anxiety and keep my stress down.’ ‘It helps me relax.’ ‘It helps me stay focused and calm, and grounds my thinking. I love this group.’ ‘After group breathing and meditating, I feel like a weight has been lifted off me,’” she says.

Practicing meditation might not be the right fit for everyone.

Although it can provide some psychological benefits, it’s not designed to address personal trauma or complex loss, says Pilar Jennings, a meditation expert and therapist in New York City.

“If people are trying to address complicated traumas through meditation without clinical support, they might find the meditation stirs up powerful feelings that are hard to sit with,” Jennings says.

“It’s tempting, for most meditators, to at times hope it will be enough to change struggles with addiction, depression or anxiety.

But I would recommend seeking the support of a good psychotherapist who has respect and appreciation for meditation as an additional healing, too.”

The mind matters

For newbie meditators, experts agree it’s highly recommended to take a class — whether it’s in a meditation or Buddhist center, or even online. “It’s extremely helpful to have a skillful teacher to explain See MEDITATION, Page 8

Skincare tips to get you through the rest of winter without a scratch

By Jessica Perkins

How to cope with losing a spouse: advice from a grief recovery specialist

By Joanne K. Clobus Marriages come in all shapes and sizes, from the intimate soulmates to the platonic business partners and everything in between. Likewise, the grieving and adjustment process for losing a spouse is just as wide ranging.

“Grief is not neat and tidy, and no two people go through it the same way,” says certified grief recovery specialist Kelli Connolly.

Not surprisingly, the biggest struggle for most widows and widowers is loneliness. “They have spent part or most of everyday with their loved one and rarely made any decisions without consulting that person,” Connolly says. They are now forced to learn to live alone, make important decisions on their own and often have to take on roles they never had before.

Connolly works with widows who never had to pump gas or cut the grass and widowers who have never cooked a meal or cleaned the home. Many are unaware of the financials and have never paid the bills. So, along with dealing with their grief, they must learn new skills.

Ray and Verna Yourd’s 64year marriage was one for the ages. He was a physician with a busy practice, while she set her nursing career aside to raise their four children. In their later years, Verna worked in Ray’s medical office with him until he retired.

Then when his health declined, she placed him in the care of a nursing home, where he died six months later. “Being separated from Ray during that time was a very hard adjustment for me,” she says. “I missed him terribly.”

After Ray’s death, Verna went on about the business of life.

“Through our marriage, we talked things over and made decisions together on just about everything,” she says. While she managed their day-to-day finances, he weighed in on the bigger investments and household issues. Even with Ray no longer by her side, Verna is capable of handling things on her own. “I know how to take care of myself,” she says.

That’s not to say she never feels sad or lonely, but staying active, physically and socially, helps keep the blues at bay. “I get out of the house and go for a walk, or I go to the fitness center to work out,” she says. Verna volunteers regularly at her local hospital, where Ray practiced for many years. A few times a week, she visits his gravesite, just to talk to him and trim the grass around his headstone. “He probably sees me and says ‘Oh no, here comes Mrs. Neatnik again,’” she laughs.

Dry, flaky skin can be itchy and irritating. Even individuals who tend toward oily skin on their face often battle dry skin on their body in the winter months. A big factor in winter dryness is lower levels of humidity in the environment, says Dr. Suzan Obagi, associate professor of dermatology and associate professor of cosmetic surgery at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center.

“When it’s drier out, our skin loses more water,” Obagi says.

In fact, she says, individuals are prone to lose more water, and are at high risk of dehydration in the winter, which means everyone should be drinking more water and taking better care of their skin when the temperatures are colder.

Combat dry skin

There are several things that can be done to combat dry skin. First, avoid taking long, hot showers in the winter. While contrary to our desire to stay warm, Obagi says hot showers strip the skin of natural oil and dry it out. She recommends taking a shorter shower using warm water, rather than hot.

Next, she recommends using soap sparingly, as it can sometimes dry skin, as well. Try lathering up only those areas that tend to become dirty, such as under the arms and the groin. All other areas should be cleansed with a moisturizing cleanser, which has oil or fat as an ingredient. She offers caution to those using an oil-based cleanser, such as coconut oil or shea butter. These products can create slippery conditions in the shower.

Obagi recommends to those with very dry skin to consider using a hydrating ointment on the body.

Creams and lotions are better suited for those with moderate to mild dry skin. For those who

don’t like the tacky feeling of an ointment right before they get dressed for work, Obagi says a lotion can be used during the day and an ointment applied in the evening, paired with a loose-fitting pair of pajamas.

F.a.c.e. Makeup artist Erin Hendley also has a few recommendations for those seeking solutions to moisturize skin on their faces.

“Serums are typically lightweight and great for oily and normal skin,” Hendley says. “Toner sprays are also fabulous for oily skin, since they help balance out the Ph levels of the skin. Moisturizer lotions are usually thicker, so they are suggested for dry skin.

“For combination skin, ‘spot treating’ is a go-to, essentially, applying moisturizer lotions along the dry areas and applying a serum along the more oily to normal areas.”

Drink more water

While nothing sounds more appetizing than a hot cup of coffee on a winter morning or a brandy to keep warm at night, coffee and alcohol can accelerate dehydration. This leads to drier skin.

“Drink lots of water in the winter,” Obagi says. “In the winter, we have to hydrate more because we lose more water.”

Hendley says hydrating from within is the surest way to keep skin moisturized all year long.

She also recommends a spritzer applied directly to the skin to keep skin fresh.

“I love a mineralized water spritzed on to wake up the skin,” Hendley says. “I use it before applying makeup and at the end, too.”

Use a humidifier

Another dry skin culprit is the dry heat emitted from your home’s heating system. Humidifying products can be installed to many HVAC systems; however, even a basic, stand-alone humidifier placed in a bedroom can do a lot to add moisture back into the environment, Obagi says.

The best time to combat winter skin dryness is before it becomes an issue.

“Don’t wait until your skin is dry and irritated.” Obagi says.

“You can take preventative measures early on.”

8 Section 2

Thursday, January 25, 2018

The Regional News • The Reporter

Smith Senior Living: New Year’s resolutions easier to maintain with support and innovation Submitted by Smith Senior Living Residents at Smith Village in Chicago’s Beverly/Morgan Park neighborhood and Smith Crossing in Orland Park are finding it easier to keep their new year’s resolutions by taking advantage of interactive technology.

Both life plan communities have wellness centers that feature HUR workout equipment, which responds to wristbands configured for individual residents’ fitness needs and programs. By reading wristband technology, HUR workout equipment adjusts automatically to suit individual anatomy and strength. The HUR system also records repetitions and timing of workouts, reporting progress for immediate viewing on a monitor.

Workout information is retained for further tracking and evaluation by onsite wellness coordinators.

“It’s much easier to record and review progress,” said Karinna Wesley, wellness coordinator at Smith Village, 2320 W. 113th Place in Chicago. “At first, some residents were resistant to wearing

Meditation

Continued from Page 7 the techniques, both physical and mental, that bolster a meditation practice,” Jennings says.

But remember there’s no real wrong way to do it. It’s helpful to learn from teachers, of course.

But just sitting in stillness, noticing the breath, noticing when the mind wanders, and bringing your attention back to the breath is all that’s needed, says Michelle Gale, a mindfulness educator based in the San Francisco Bay area. “We are not meant to stop ourselves from thinking,” Gale says. “Thinking is normal. It’s the moment we notice our thoughts and choose to bring our attention back to the breath that we are practicing; we are doing it right.”

Watkins agrees, adding that you shouldn’t try to control your mind nor try be a monk. “Be yourself, sit comfortably, be natural, and allow your mind to do its thing — even if you feel like it’s not working,” he says.

Jenny Arrington, a meditation and yoga teacher at Northwestern University in suburban Chicago, says don’t go into a new meditation routine with expectations of a particular end result. “That just sets us up for failure,” Arrington says.

New meditators can expect that it will be challenging to not get carried away in their thoughts and to keep coming back to their focal point, Arrington says.

According to Patestides, building over time is the goal. “Don’t judge or feel pressure; just build it into a routine in your day and week,” she says. “Start with 10 minutes, and then increase to 20 minutes or so, even if it’s 10 minutes in the morning and 10 minutes before bed.”

Find your center

Most forms of meditation have four elements in common: a quiet location with minimal distractions, a comfortable posture, a focus of attention and an openminded attitude, according to Chen. It’s often helpful to pick a word or a phrase as a point of relaxing.

To dive right in, follow these steps: Set a timer for 10, 15 or even 20 minutes (or you can keep an eye on the clock).

Sit comfortably in a chair with your feet grounded and back straight and supported, and gently close your eyes, Subramoniam says. You can also sit on the ground and use a yoga mat, if you prefer.

“Take a few long and full breaths, and exhale slowly until the entire air goes out each time,” he says. “Go through all the body parts mentally and relax them consciously. Listen to all the sounds that you are hearing, like sound of traffic, people talking or music.”

Next, feel the sensation of touch between the body and the chair at all contact points, he says. “Feel the movement of air in and out at the tip of the nose first, then at the throat, and then feel the rising and falling of chest and abdomen,” he says. “Then look into the space in front of the closed eyes and just observe the thoughts and emotions.”

Then wait and watch the natural breathing of the body without disturbing its natural rhythm. After one breath, there will be a gap, and the next breath will start. This is the natural breathing of the body.

Now focus on the gaps.

the wristbands, but once they realized how easy it is, they loved it.

With these bands, they have more flexibility to work out when I’m not in the wellness center earlier or later in the day.”

So far, about 20 independent living residents use the HUR wristbands at Smith Village. Others still work out and take fitness classes.

Well over half of Smith Village independent living residents participate in the wellness program.

Before enrolling in either Smith community’s onsite fitness program, residents must obtain a doctor’s okay. And before using exercise equipment or signing up for exercise classes, residents meet with wellness coordinators who evaluate their ability to balance and move freely. The coordinators rely on fitness assessment tests recommended by the National Institute on Aging.

The “Timed Up and Go” times how long it takes a person to rise from a seated position using their legs only. Standing up from a chair can take more time as people age.

Older adults who have lost significant core strength sometimes must make several attempts or resort

to pushing themselves up while gripping chair arms.

The “Functional Reach” test measures how far a person can reach with outstretched arms while feet remain firmly planted. As people age, their reach—or margin of stability—declines. For example, women from age 20 to 40 can generally reach about 14.5 inches.

Women in their 80s may only be able to reach 10 inches.

The wellness coordinators also use the timed balance test, which measures how long a person can stand on one foot, another ability that declines with age.

These assessments are simple, but they’re important because they expose how easily a person moves, their core strength and their level of stability.

“Strong, capable muscles provide better stability, reducing risks of falls and fractures that can lead to other health problems,” said Wesley. “Older adults are less likely to fall if they’re performing physical activities on a regular basis. These tests enable us to see where the person can start, so they’re not pushing themselves too far out of their comfort zone

and becoming frustrated. Instead, they’re building on their abilities.”

Like Wesley, Smith Crossing wellness coordinator Michael Clemens believes annual checkups and fitness assessments are a vital part of preventative care for residents of the life plan community located at 10501 Emilie Lane in Orland Park.

“I think it’s very important to have an annual examination by a physician, and to have an assessment by a personal trainer,” Clemens said. “The big advantage for Smith Crossing residents is that they have access to these meaPhotos by Waldemar Reichert sures as guidelines for tracking and improving health and fitness Left: Smith Village Wellness Coordinator Karinna Wesley sees residents embracing new technology to monitor fitness gains. Right: Smith Crossthroughout the year.”

Smith Senior Living, a notfor-profit organization serving older adults, sponsors two life plan communities located in the Southwest sector of Metropolitan Chicago: Smith Village in Chicago’s Beverly neighborhood and Smith Crossing in Orland Park, Ill. An innovative leader providing the finest services and care for

seniors, Smith established its first community in 1924, on the same city block where Smith Village stands today.

Both LPCs provide spacious, independent living residences and apartments for assisted living, as well as memory support and skilled nursing care. In addition, they offer short-term rehab

programs for residents and others who have had surgery or a medical incident.

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

When the timer dings (keep the volume at the bare minimum), slowly move your toes first, then fingers, and then rub your palms together so you generate some

friction. “Cup your eyes and feel the heat, feel the face, and look into the dark space in front of the eyes for some time, and then gently open the eyes,” he says. “Sit

relaxed in the chair for few minutes to evaluate the experience.”

You just mediated.

Looking toward the future, Jona Genova, who’s based in southern

California and has been teaching meditation for more than 10 years, “can’t wait for the day when we view meditation as a form of hygiene — as a way of being a

healthy human,” she says. “We touch in on and develop what makes us human, and in that process, we also take better care of our vehicles — our bodies.”

About Smith Senior Living

ing fitness coordinator Michael Clemens sees innovation as a means of improving service to residents.

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