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REPORTER

THE Volume LVII, No. 46

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

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Thursday, January 26, 2017

Our Lady of the Ridge gains support Effort to keep Chicago Ridge school open has some momentum By Joe Boyle Mary Grisolano says her years as a student at Our Lady of the Ridge Elementary School provided her with great experiences and a wealth of memories, in addition to a great education. After spending a few years in New York City, she felt the pull to come home to Chicago Ridge. She said one

reason for her return was that her children could attend Our Lady of the Ridge, 10859 S. Ridgeland Ave., Chicago Ridge. Now Grisolano, alumni, teachers and students at Our Lady of the Ridge are battling to keep the school open. The Chicago Archdiocese has stated that Our Lady of the Ridge has to increase funding and enrollment totals by the end of February or risk closing its doors in June. The announcement was made public on Jan. 11, which was the same day that St. Louis de Montfort in Oak Lawn had been informed by the archdiocese that the school will close, effective on June 30. Low enrollment was the main reason given for the decision to close that school. Grisolano, now the school’s media

Queen of Peace High School will close its doors this year By Joan Hadac Shock and sadness rippled through the southwest suburbs this week, after a Tuesday night announcement that Queen of Peace High School will close its doors relations volunteer, is confident that the community will rally behind Our Lady of the Ridge. An open house will be held Sunday, Jan. 29 to start off Catholic Schools Week. She said that along with current staff and alumni,

this spring. Established in 1962 by the Sinsinawa Dominican Sisters, the Burbank school at 7659 S. Linder “has provided a mission-driven, college See PEACE, Page 9 business and community leaders are making efforts to keep the school open. “We really feel good about this,” Grisolano said. “We are working on

Photo by Joe Boyle

Signs have been posted in front of Our Lady of Ridge School in Chicago Ridge, alerting residents about an See RIDGE, Page 9 open house that will be held on Sunday.

‘Some closure’ for the family Son, friend found guilty of killing parents in 2011 Palos Twp. murders By Steve Metsch

Claudia Parker took this selfie as she joined thousands of people Saturday in the Women’s March at Chicago’s Grant Park. A scheduled 60,000 were expected to participate, but the crowd was estimated to be closer to 250,000.

MARCHING WITH PURPOSE Columnist Claudia Parker is inspired to be part of last Saturday’s movement

By Claudia Parker

ever estimate the power of women after Saturday’s global marches News outlets estimated that more than 600 organized protests took place worldwide on Saturday, Jan. 21 to unite in solidarity and highlight the many grievances of the American people. These concerns range from women’s rights, civil rights, gay rights, pay equality, immigration and religious rights, to name a few. The Women’s March on Washington, D.C., was the largest. There were said to

be 500,000 people trekking around the National Mall on Saturday, reportedly more than President Trump’s inauguration — an estimate made in part by the 193,000 transit tickets sold on the day of Trump’s inauguration. While official attendance numbers aren’t yet known for Friday’s inauguration, numbers were down significantly from President Obama’s 1.8 million attendees in 2009. I didn’t board a bus for the march in Washington. I drove right down to Grant Park in Chicago to support my fellow females. At the time of my registration, 60,000 were slated to attend. Perhaps the

sunny skies and 60-degree temperature lured the other 190,000 because 250,000 of us plastered our feet to the streets, gridlocking traffic for hours. “Silence is no longer acceptable,” said my best friend, Shanett Coleman, of Chicago. “The best way for us to be heard is to unite, and when we do, it enlightens a consciousness for all of our causes.” I couldn’t agree more. I saw men holding signs that read, “I’m marching for my mom, wife, sister and daughter.” I can still hear “Black Lives Matter” being chanted See MARCH, Page 8

Oak Lawn Library display recalls blanket of white that covered the area in 1967 By Joe Boyle Ask someone who grew up in the Chicago area in 1967 what they remember most about that year and you might receive a couple of answers. It was either the great blizzard that brought the area to a standstill, or the tornado that ripped through Oak Lawn and other communities that spring. Most likely, Oak Lawn residents will tell you it was both. “A Blanket of White: The Blizzard of ’67” photo exhibit is on display officially

Joe Boyle shares his memories of the Blizzard of 1967: Page 3

beginning today (Thursday, Jan. 26) at the Oak Lawn Library, 9427 S. Raymond Ave. The official opening date is significant. Jan. 26, 1967 was the day the snow began to fall in Chicago and suburban communities, including Oak Lawn. When it finally stopped falling after 24 hours, 23 inches of snow had fallen to the See BLIZZARD, Page 8

Photo courtesy of Oak Lawn Library

John Granat Jr. and his best friend, Christopher Wyma, were both found guilty Jan. 18 of two counts of first-degree murder in the bludgeoning deaths of Granat’s parents in September 2011. After closing arguments were made in Room 110 of the Bridgeview Courthouse, it took a jury of seven women and five men just under two hours to find the younger Granat guilty. Granat, 22, in dark slacks and a white striped shirt, showed no emotion as the verdicts were read by the clerk of Cook County Circuit Court Associate Judge Neil Linehan. Granat did not look toward the 20 or so relatives and family friends gathered in the court room. Wyma’s jury, of nine women and John Granat Jr. three men, needed just 40 minutes to find him guilty. Wyma, 22, nodded slowly as the clerk read each verdict. The son of a Palos Heights police officer, the cleanly shaven Wyma wore dark slacks, a striped shirt a few sizes too large, and a striped tie. Three times he looked toward family and friends in the court room, flashing a brief smile as he was led to a holding cell. Post-trial motions will be heard Christopher Wyma Feb. 22 for Wyma and Feb. 24 for Granat, said Linehan, who thanked each jury for their service. Wyma’s family and friends quickly left the courtroom after his verdict was read. Assistant state’s attorneys Deborah Lawler and Donna Norton hugged the sister of Maria Granat afterward. Family members declined comment, but a friend said he was surprised at how quick a verdict was reached. “All I can say is justice is swift. At least now the family can get some closure. It’s been too long,” said Frank Brongiel, a Granat family friend for 20 years. “They can go home to their families now.” Lurid details revealed in the trial “were gruesome,” Brongiel said. He said he never saw anything out of the ordinary in the younger Granat that gave him cause for concern. “I’d see him out cutting the lawn on his father’s properties,” Brongiel said. But the prosecution painted a much darker picture of a young man who, although he never wanted for money, hated his parents, especially after they found his backyard marijuana crop and threw out the plants. He was grounded in August 2011 for that, and grew so angry he told his friends that he wanted his parents dead. Together, prosecutors said, Granat and Wyma devised a plot in which the parents would be murdered. John Granat Sr. and his wife, Maria Granat, were beaten to death with baseball bats in the bedroom early Sept. 11, 2011, in their spacious Palos Township home in the 12700 block of 81st Court.

An Oak Lawn resident uses a sled to bring home her groceries after the Blizzard of 1967.

See MURDERS, Page 2

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2 The Reporter

Murders

Continued from Page 1

When Maria, showed signs of life after the beating, she was stabbed 21 times, prosecutors said. Wyma, of Bridgeview, and another friend, Ehab Qasem, of Hickory Hills, had beaten the couple. Qasem did the stabbing. They acted on orders from Granat, who was busy in the garage, counting money stolen from his parents and later distributed to Qasem, Wyma and Mohammed Salahat, driver of the getaway car. When told his mother was still breathing, Granat handed a knife to Qasem and told him to “finish it,” the state said. During closing arguments, Lawler recounted how Qasem the previous day told the jury that on Sept. 10, 2011, an angry Granat told his friends “I want it done today.” “What this offender did to his parents is unimaginable. It takes our breath away with its sheer brutality and callousness,” Lawler said as she pointed one of the aluminum bats at the unflinching Granat. Granat, she said, had lured and groomed the other three by buying clothes for them and handing them wads of money, once giving Qasem $2,300 stuffed into an empty chewing gum package. “He planted the seed. You asked if they liked this lifestyle. He told them, ‘If my parents were dead, everything would be in my name’,” Lawler said. Using a code word for the murders, he sent a Skype message to Wyma at 1:46 a.m. Sept. 11 that set the wheels in motion. “He was the mastermind of the plan. This ‘Son of the Year’ opened the door for them,” Lawler said. Detailed cellphone records place the four in the vicinity of the Granat home in the early hours of Sept. 11, 2011, she said. She also noted how Granat’s story changed 14 times when he was interrogated by Cook County Sheriff’s police investigators, and questioned how a teenager who allegedly finds his parents brutally murdered would sound so calm on a 911 call. When talking with police at the scene, Granat asked “is the fire department going to clean up the mess because I want to keep living here.” His story began to unravel when, after dividing the money at Wyma’s home, Granat was pulled over by a Palos Heights police officer in a routine traffic stop at 5:18 a.m., she said. “We know he’s not a quick

Thursday, January 26, 2017 thinker. He told (detectives) no less than 14 versions of his whereabouts Sept. 10 and 11 and who murdered his parents,” Lawler said. Public defender LaFonzo Palmer said “John did not kill his parents” and said the murders were carried out by Wyma and Qasem who feared their “gravy train” of easy money from Granat was coming to an end. “John is stupid. He hung out with the wrong kids, with the bad kids,” Palmer said. “The state says he wasn’t upset on the 911 call. You all know everyone responds differently to shock and fear.” He blasted Qasem’s testimony fingering Granat, saying that Qasem admitted to lying to detectives and a grand jury. “You didn’t see a remorseful young man. You saw a young man here protectiing himself,” Palmer said, noting that Qasem testified against his friends in exchange for a 40-year term in prison, not the life sentences faced by Granat and Wyma. After the Granat jury began deliberations, it was time for final arguments on Wyma. Norton made extensive use of his sometimes chilling videotaped interrogations from October 2011. Told that Qasem was given more money than him, an angry Wyma asks, “How much does he have? Sixteen K?” The quote showed Wyma’s hunger for “blood money,” Norton said. “This was Chris’ priority, his greed.” Another tape has Wyma saying that in a visit on Sept. 10, 2011, Granat told him he wanted his parents “(expletive) dead.” Norton recounted Qasem’s testimony in which he admitted having second thoughts before entering the couple’s bedroom that night, again stressing Wyma’s hunger for money. Earlier in the trial, Wyma’s former girlfriend told of finding $15,000 in his room the day after the murders. “He got his money for helping John out. He got it for murdering Maria and John Granat. The $15,000 he got in exchange for the screams he can’t get out of his head,” Norton said. Qasem and Salahat, now serving 35 years, were also paid cash by Granat, she said. Wyma’s attorney, public defender Daniel Nolan, argued there was no proof beyond a reasonable doubt that Wyma was actually in the house on Sept. 11. Cellphone records indicating his phone was there do not mean he was, Nolan said. A sentencing date has yet to be set.

POLICE REPORTS Chicago Ridge Drug sales

Two 18-year-old men were charged with delivery of more than 30 grams of cannabis, a felony, following their arrest at 111th and Ridgeland Avenue at 8:48 p.m. Sunday. Police responding to reported drug activity in the area said they witnessed Jordan D. Whitehead, of the 200 block of West Bay Road, Palos Heights, and Michael T. Machessy, of Merrillville, Ind., pass the drugs to an unidentified subject in exchange for $250 cash. They were both held for a bond hearing on Tuesday.

Battery off nse Matthew Paciga, 25, of the 10900 block of South Parkside Avenue, Chicago Ridge, was charged with battery following a fight in the 6600 block of Ridge Drive at 9:50 p.m. Jan. 21. Police said they were called to the scene of a disturbance, and they witnessed Paciga trying to punch another man. He is due in court on March 27.

Retail theft Sharon Brown, 54, of the 11200 block of King Drive, Chicago, was charged with retail theft at Kohl’s in Chicago Ridge Mall at 6 p.m. Jan. 13. Police said she took merchandise worth $400.

Criminal trespassing Arturo Barbosa, 19, of the 6900 block of South Karlov Avenue, Chicago, was charged with criminal trespassing at XSport Fitness in the Commons Plaza at 1:30 a.m. last Thursday. Police said they were called to the scene to remove him because he was on the premises without being a member and refused to leave. He is due in court on Feb. 7.

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Laura J. Flitter, 28, of the 8200 block of South Roberts Road, Bridgeview, was arrested on an outstanding warrant after police questioned her about another incident at a gas station in the 8800 block of West 87th Street at 9 a.m. Monday. Police investigating a report of an unconscious person on the premises said they asked her if she knew the individual, and she gave a false name when asked if she knew the person. But police recognized her and found the warrant from La Grange for failure to appear in court on a driving charge. She was also cited for obstructing identification before being turned over to La Grange police.

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Drug possession Michael Simms, 52, of Chicago, was charged with felony possession of a controlled substance following a traffic stop at 9:29 p.m. Jan. 13 in the 9200 block of South Western Avenue. Police said he was carrying .2 grams of cocaine. He was also cited for driving without insurance, no seatbelt, and a cracked taillight.

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• Kenneth Emanuel, 46, of Chicago, was charged with retail theft at Menards, 9100 S. Western Ave., at 10:30 a.m. Jan. 18. Police said he took several cans of paint worth $171.17. • Danielle Fowler, 35, of Chicago, was charged with retail theft at Walmart, 2500 W. 95th St., at 6:59 p.m. Jan. 14. Police said she took cosmetics and a media storage item worth $20.74 in total. • Anton Alexander, 33, of Chicago, was charged with retail theft at 3:10 p.m. last Thursday at Walmart. Police said he took a package of underwear worth $14.98. • Angelina Campbell, 18, of Justice, was charged with retail theft at Walmart at 1:42 p.m. Jan. 13. Police said she took a cellphone case worth $19.96. • Carl Smith, 25, of Chicago, was charged with retail theft at Walmart at 3:05 p.m. Jan. 14. Police said he took an ink cartridge worth $55.97. • Chicago residents Natasha O’Neil, 37, and Tia Anderson, 33, were charged with retail theft at Walmart, at 5:11 p.m. Jan. 14. Police said both took rum, vodka and other liquor. O’Neil was found with five items worth $51.60, and Anderson with 14 items worth $96.05, according to reports.

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Rhodes Melendez, 51, of the 5000 block of Oak Center Drive, Oak Lawn, was charged with driving on a suspended license following a traffic stop at 3:55 p.m. Jan. 18 in the 10700 block of South Ridgeland Avenue. Police said she was also cited for driving without insurance. She is due in court on Feb. 27.

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• Daniel P. Caponigri, 37, of the 11100 block of South 84th Avenue, Palos Hills, was charged with driving on a suspended license at 6:09 a.m. Jan. 18. Police said he was also cited for having only one working taillight. He is due in court on March 9. • Maurice Rice, 55, of the 900 block of South LaGrange Road, La Grange, was charged with driving on a suspended license following a traffic stop at 12:41 p.m. Jan. 18 in the 8200 block of West 95th Street. Police said he was also cited for having no front registration plate. He is due in court on Feb. 14.

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William A.C. Whiten, 39, of Evergreen Park, was charged with disorderly conduct following

a dispute at Planet Fitness, 9500 S. Cicero Ave., at 7:21 p.m. Jan. 16. Police responding to a customer management dispute were told that Whiten became argumentative when he was told he was wearing the wrong clothing to work out. An employee called police after Whiten allegedly said “you better have your papers” or he would be deported “because Trump is going to build a wall.” He was also cited for obstructing identification for giving a false name. Police said he refused to be fingerprinted and urinated on the floor of the cell he was put in. Whiten is due in court on March 14.

Vehicles stolen • Maurice D. Nixon, 20, of Chicago, was charged with possession of a stolen vehicle after a car was stolen from a lot near 95th Street and Kostner Avenue at 5:12 p.m. Jan. 12. Police said the vehicle was driven away when the owner left it running and unattended for a few minutes. The owner followed and the offender fled on foot after stopping to scrape ice off the windshield in the 9600 block of South Kenneth Avenue. Police picked him up at 97th and Kolin. They said the owner did not positively identify him but he was wanted on an outstanding warrant for a parole violation. He was also cited for unlicensed driving and obstructing identification. He was held for a Jan. 13 bond hearing. • A Hyundai Tucson worth $17,500 was reported stolen from Happy Hyundai, 9121 S. Cicero Ave., after the vehicle and its keys were found missing at 1:01 p.m. Jan. 17. Police traced the SUV to Peoria, where it was found with a stolen license plate. They said it was used by people who fired shots in that city on Jan. 12.

Retail theft Kurt Tomei, of Elmhurst, was charged with retail theft at Home Depot, 4060 W. 95th St., at 1:48 p.m. Jan. 17. Police said he was detained outside after employees said they saw him change bar codes on two laser measures and scan them through a self-checkout kiosk, paying $1.56 for the items worth $149.

Suspended license Ron E. Harrison, 35, of Chicago Ridge, was charged with driving on a suspended license following a traffic stop at 9:19 a.m. Jan. 12 in the 10300 block of South Minnick Avenue. Police said he exited the car and walked away but was apprehended on nearby Georgia Lane. He was also cited for failure to signal, suspended registration, and driving without insurance. He is due in court on Feb. 15.

Drug possession George K. Warner, 39, of River Forest, was charged with two felony counts of possession of a controlled substance following a traffic stop at 12:57 a.m. Jan. 14 in the 9200 block of South Cicero Avenue. Police said they found four bags of crack cocaine totaling 1.5 grams and a pipe used to smoke it in the car, and .5 grams of heroin in his wallet. He was also cited for possession of drug paraphernalia, expired registration, and having only one red taillight. He was held for a bond hearing.

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Retail theft Williamette L. Osborne, 42, of Chicago, was charged with retail theft at Mariano’s, 11000 S. Cicero Ave., at 6:19 p.m. Jan. 14. Police said she left the store with a cart full of groceries worth $121.56, and was stopped outside as she was loading them into her car. She is due in court on Feb. 1.

Palos Hills DUI charge Ryan Carr, 24, of Chicago Ridge, was charged with driving under the influence of alcohol following a traffic stop at 3 a.m. Sunday in the 10500 block of South Harlem Avenue. Police said he was also cited for improper lane usage, speeding, no use of headlights when required, no valid registration and improper display of registration plates. He is due in court on Feb. 10.

Vandalism reports • Police responded to a parking dispute that turned into a criminal damage complaint at 9 p.m. Jan. 16 in the 11100 block of O’Gorman Drive. The victim reported that an unknown person sprayed an unknown adhesive on the windows of a vehicle, sealing them closed. • A window was reported damaged in the 8200 block of Holly Court at 2 a.m. Friday, an incident which a resident told police began with an argument. • A resident of the 10000 block of South 84th Terrace reported finding two tires on their vehicle slashed at 9 a.m. Friday.

Counterfeit bills Police are investigating a report of several incidents of counterfeit money being passed at Durbin’s, 10154 S. Roberts Road. Employees told police that over a threeweek period, several counterfeit $20 bills turned up there.

Credit card fraud A resident of the 9900 block of South 87th Avenue reported finding unapproved charges on his credit card at 2 p.m. Saturday.

Car is stolen A car was reported stolen from outside a home in the 11100 block of South Moraine Drive at 9 p.m. Saturday. The victim told police his vehicle had recently been involved in a crash in Chicago and was towed to his residence. But he said that someone removed it from the area and he could not find it.

Theft reports • A white metal chair was reported stolen from a front porch on Cour D’Alene at 10:30 a.m. Monday. • Two lug nuts were reported stolen off a vehicle parked in the 10500 block of South Roberts Road at 1 p.m. Monday.

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

Evergreen Park FOP to host Fish and Sports Show The Fraternal Order of Police Evergreen Park Lodge No. 27 is hosting its Fish and Sports Show from 7 to 11 p.m. Friday, March 10 at 115 Bourbon Street, 3359 W. 115th St., Merrionette Park. The fundraiser will include guest speakers, sporting vendors, raffles and more. Admission is $25 per person, which includes a full buffet, draft beer, wine and soft drinks. Tickets may be purchased in advance at the front desk of the Evergreen Park Police Department, 9420 S. Kedzie Ave.

Expired prescription drugs can be dropped off at the Palos Hills Police Department The Palos Heights Police Department is now accepting expired prescription drugs that residents wish to legally destroy. A sealed drop box is located in the lobby of the police department at 8555 W. 103rd St. where residents may drop off prescription medication between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. weekdays. The Cook County Sheriff’s Department will pick up and destroy the drugs once a month.

Thursday, January 26, 2017

The Reporter

City, suburbs stood still during the Blizzard of ’67

e’ve been experiencing another mild January, just like last year. We have had several days with temperatures in the 50s this month. They resemble cold spring days more than winter. But when this is mentioned to people of a certain age, a look of trepidation crosses their faces. Invariably they will mention: “Remember when it was in the 60s and a couple of days later we had the great snowstorm?” Yes, the Blizzard of 1967. Anyone who was a youngster in those days remembers the snowstorm. This is a case where those of us who lived through those couple of days are not exaggerating. Today marks the 50th anniversary of that blizzard. We have had some major blasts since then. The snowstorm of 1979 helped elevate Jane Byrne, who had little cash to campaign, to Joe defeat the Machine candidate Michael Bilandic Boyle for mayor of Chicago. Bilandic was supposed keep the seat warm, after Richard J. Daley died, for Richard M. Daley to eventually take his father’s place. The rest is history, as the snow came and Bilandic and the city were caught off guard. Byrne seized the opportunity. We had a major snowstorm from Feb. 1 to Feb. 2, 2011. No one saw the groundhog’s shadow that day. Heck, no one could find the groundhog. But the blizzard that ripped through Chicago and the suburbs in 1967 was different. And it is true that two days before the blizzard – Tuesday, Jan. 24, 1967 – the temperature had reached 65 degrees. The temperatures were mostly mild that whole month. In those days, we did not have Doppler radar. Each TV station now has five or six weather forecasters and the majority of them are meteorologists. The forecasts are quite accurate today as opposed to 50 years ago. The original forecast the day before called for it to be cloudy on that fateful Thursday with a chance of snow, especially in the afternoon. The high was supposed to be near 30 with a 50 percent chance of precipitation. The weather forecast changed very little that day before the blizzard. Later in the day, one forecast said there would be a 90 percent chance of snow but didn’t predict anything major. The first warning sign came at 3:45 a.m. Thursday, Jan 26. It was a forecast for a “heavy snow warning.” But even that report was calling for accumulations of four inches of snow or more by the afternoon. Noting in that report suggested what was actually going to happen. I don’t recall anything out of the ordinary happening that morning. It was snowing, but by then we had heard it was going to do just that. I believe we went a full day to school. I do recall mentioning to friends on the way home that it was snowing hard. Of course, I had never seen anything quite like it later that day. It just kept coming and coming. According to weather reports, the heaviest snow fell in the morning and early afternoon, with the maximum rate of accumulation of two inches per hour during the late morning. What was amazing to me was that the staff at St. Margaret of Scotland School at 99th and Throop Street in Chicago called off school the next day. In those days, that was unheard of. But no one could move. Cars were buried on side streets along the city blocks. Our neighborhood store at 97th and Vincennes Avenue was called Holiday Foods. It seemed like a holiday when we walked in. The lights were dim and many of the shelves were empty. I later went the store with my mom. We used a sled to help carry the groceries. No vehicular traffic could be found anywhere. We just pulled that sled down the middle of the street. I helped shovel our walk when the snow finally stopped. We helped push cars stuck in snowdrifts. My younger brother, Terry, and some neighborhood kids were jumping off our garage roof into the snow. And to top it off, my father, brothers and sisters had to walk to St. Margaret’s Church so my brother, Bobby, could be baptized that Sunday. My brother was born in December under milder temperatures. The next week, school began at 10 a.m. to provide more time for lay teachers to arrive at school. When the snow finally stopped, 23 inches had fallen on the city. In an 11-day period through Feb. 5, a grand total of 35 inches of snow was on the ground. So, when the temperatures become mild in January, I know some adults get a little nervous. We survived the Blizzard of 1967. Let’s hope we don’t have a repeat. Joe Boyle is the editor of The Reporter. He can be reached at thereporter@comcast.net.

Beach party in winter

Photo by Joe Boyle

Dave Rudolf plays guitar and sings a version of Jimmy Buffet’s “Margaritaville” as he is accompanied by backup singer Steve Wing during a recent “Beach Party Show” at the Oak Lawn Library. Rudolf and Wing also did versions of the Everly Brothers’ “Dream” and Buddy Holly’s “Words of Love” before a large crowd during the two-hour show.

OAK LAWN BOARD MEETING

Village has a new tree maintenance company Plans to rehab Oak Lawn Lake are in place By Dermot Connolly

The importance of timely treetrimming and maintenance of local amenities were among the issues addressed during the Oak Lawn Village Board on Tuesday. The board voted unanimously to accept a bid by Waucondabased Acres Group to provide $323,940 for the tree services contract for 2017-2019. The company was the lowest of six bids opened in Dec. 28. Trustee Alex Olejniczak (2nd), who sits on the Public Works Committee with trustees Tim Desmond (1st) and Mike Carberry (6th), noted that the village began outsourcing tree trimming and related services because the Public Works Department could not keep up with the need. He said the emerald ash borer infestation in 2012, when hundreds of damaged trees had to be cut down, set the village crews back. This caused a backlog of trees in need of trimming or removal. But he said the Public Works staff was stretched too thin, and had other responsibilities. “It is a great program. Financially, it was the best thing we could do,” said Olejniczak. “We were able to take care of 100 percent of the list, and get started on the 2017 schedule.” He credited the program

with practically eliminating the problem of falling trees causing power outages, which had been a chronic problem. “With the storms and ice we have had recently, it wouldn’t have been as smooth sailing as it has been,” Olejniczak said. “People don’t need to worry as much about tree damage and losing power.” In another matter related to public works, the board approved a contract with Christopher Burke Engineering for the rehabilitation of Oak Lawn Lake this year. The manmade lake, in Lakeshore Park at 96th Street between East and West Lakeshore Drive, has fallen into disrepair. It was dug in the late 1890s to serve as a recreation spot, and trustees say that need remains. “We’re investing $170,000 this year,” said Olejnizak. “It will include shoring up the banks, but we have to find out what else is needed.” He said he fished in the lake he called a “jewel” when he was growing up in town, and wants that to be possible again. Trustee Tim Desmond also pointed out that Redfin, an online real estate database, recently predicted downtown Oak Lawn would be “the hottest neighborhood” in the Chicago area for 2017.

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4 The Reporter

Our Neighborhood

Thursday, January 26, 2017

Shepard inducts students into National Honor Society A new group of students has been inducted into the National Honor Society at Shepard High School in Palos Heights. Criteria for National Honor Society membership includes a grade-point average of at least 3.6/4.0 and participation in at least four extracurricular activities (five if the student is a senior.) Students cannot receive academic credit or compensation for the activities.

To remain in the NHS, students must continue membership in school activities as well as participate in NHS service projects. Shepard students inducted in the NHS are Sara Abualsamen, Hanin Abuzer, Adam Alleruzzo, Kiley Boerema, Alana Born, Jillian Cabusas, Paula Clohessy, David Cooper, Elizabeth Correll, Jessica Coyle, Nicholas Dombroski, Matthew Dykstra, Angela Flisk, Rainah Folk, Anastasia

Gadomski, Hayley Goebel, Isabella Gorzeiniowski, Cristian Guerrero, Crystal Gutierrez, Rachel Habbal, Faith Jeeninga, Katie Juarez, Arthur Hernandez, Jacob Kalabich, Jacob Kats and Kareema Keshta. The list also includes Joshua Lagrosa, Delaney Lyons, Reiner Mahar, Alec Makenas, Elizabeth Martinez, Amara Mason, Lauren McHale, Nicholas McLawhorn, Emma McVady, Abigail

Morgan, James Mundo, Emily Paolini, Noelia Perez, Brooke Pieroth, Priscilla Ramirez, Matthew Randich, Stephanie Reichard, Emily Riley, Miquela Rubio, Becca Ruger-Smith, Jonathan Runquist, Angeline Schmeizer, Cassandra Schulist, Nicolas Smeraldo, Alex Spindler, Valerie Stone, Charles Szykowny, Leslie Tollo, Amanda Wanadaechowicz, Jacob Wolniak, Anisah Yassin and Adam Zatar.

Left: New Principal Greg Walder (right) congratulated each student who qualified for induction to National Honor Society at Shepard High School.

Above: The current and newly qualified members of the National Honor Society from Shepard High School. Right: Vice President Kelly Pawlak and other officers addressed the audience during the National Honor Society induction ceremony.

Submitted photos

Italian restaurant proposal presented to Worth Village Board By Michelle Zalesny Worth residents soon might be able to sink their teeth into some Italian pizza pie — brick oven style — with the possible arrival of a new Italian restaurant. Trustee Rich Dziedzic introduced Refaat Fanous’s Italian restaurant idea to the board at the Jan. 17 village board meeting. Fanous wants the space adjoining his café, Roma Café, which is located at 6606 W. 111th St. The space is currently occupied by D N Nails, which is planning to move to the 10527 S. Ridgeland Ave., in Chicago Ridge, under the name MX Nails. Fanous would like to open his restaurant where D N Nails was and asked the board for a business and full liquor license. Dziedzic expressed concern that a full liquor license would enable Fanous to apply for gam-

ing machines. “I think we have enough gaming machines, personally, but that’s just my opinion. I do like the brick oven idea though,” said Dziedzic. Fanous said he is not looking to implement gaming in the restaurant, since his other business, Roma Café, is a gaming café that includes a full bar and food including sandwiches, appetizers and dessert. Rather, he would focus on Italian food, namely pizza, which would be Italianstyle made in a brick oven and all-you-can eat pasta. “Some of the comments I get from residents is one thing we don’t have is an Italian restaurant and we don’t have a Chinese restaurant,” said Mayor Mary Werner. Werner said she would let Fanous know soon. Another issue discussed was

that parking on 111th Street continues to be a problem for the public and for businesses like Ramon’s Leatherworks & Shoe Repair, as well as two other nearby businesses.. “The parking issue is causing a lot of Ramon’s Leatherworks clientele to be disturbed,” said attorney Raed Shalabi, who spoke on behalf of Ramon’s Leatherworks. “I have petitions here. There are probably (up to) 900 petitions that are signed that are saying that Roman’s Leatherworks needs their own parking spots and that for the safety of motorcyclists, they need their own parking spots to be identified in the parking lot.” Currently, there are three parking spaces in front of Roman’s and the two other businesses next door. There are also three spaces east of Ramon’s Leatherworks’ driveway. The mayor’s office first

needs to contact the Illinois Department of Transportation and make a proposal. “Ultimately, IDOT has to impose the parking regulation, in which the mayor’s office can enforce,” said Werner. “The other two businesses should be able to have parking on the street in front of their stores,” expressed one resident, concerned about the parking of the other two businesses located

near Ramon’s Leatherworks. “Absolutely,” agreed Werner. “Like I said, we have to go to IDOT with a proposal that we can all live with and IDOT has to approve it. And obviously, I have no control over IDOT. All I know is right now there is no legal way to enforce anything on 111th Street. It’s open parking. I can go there and park for a month if I wanted to. It’s a public street.”

Ramon’s Leatherworks and the board are planning to come to a consensus on the matter and get the parking issue sorted to 90-minute parking with IDOT. The board also adopted Ordinance 2017-01, approving business licenses for Excellence Salon, located at 11228 S. Harlem Ave., and Mora Services, 10829 S. 76th Ave. Trustee Colleen McElroy was absent from the meeting.

Compiled by Joe Boyle

News and events from our archives Illinois Bell breaks ground for new facility in Hickory Hills • 50 years ago

From the Jan. 26, 1967 issue The story: The Illinois Bell Telephone Company broke ground for its new $2,000,000 Hickory Hills project last week. The new facility will include a central office building and dial equipment. The foundation has already begun at the corner of 95th Street and 79th Avenue for the new structure that will include the latest in dial and touch-tone service equipment. On hand for the groundbreaking were Mayor Alphonese Petkiewicz, Trustee James Geissmann, Manager Edward Anderson and Kay Coletta, the news editor for The Reporter. The quote: “We know that the potential of our area has hardly been scratched,” said Petkiewicz. “We also know the present rate of expansion is going to continue – if not become even greater – and we are proud that the people of Illinois Bell realize this and are preparing for this.”

Chicago Ridge, Worth residents want speed limit lowered • 25 years ago

From the Jan. 23, 1992 issue The story: The Worth police force was ordered to step up patrols to enforce the speed limit on 107th Street from Harlem Avenue, eastbound to Chicago Ridge, as a result of residents’ complaints heard by the Worth Village Board. Residents are demanding the speed limit be lowered to 25 miles per hour from 35 miles per hour. The petition, and a second one signed by 18 other residents near 107th Street, were each presented to both village boards of Worth and Chicago Ridge this week. Worth Mayor Daniel Kumingo sympathized with the residents. But he also mentioned that Cook County is not scheduled to turn over 107th Street to local control until later this spring. The quote: “The county will then turn the street over to Worth and Chicago Ridge. At that time, we can do it,” said Kumingo about lowering the speed limit.

Chicago Ridge officials propose TIF District • 10 years ago

From the Jan. 25, 2007 issue The story: Oak Lawn-Hometown School District 123 is planning budget cuts because of a projected deficit that district officials said could reach $7.4 million by 2012. District officials are projecting the deficit after conducting a five-year financial forecast, which includes the 2006-07 budget,” said District 123 business manager Lauri Calabrese. A financial advisory committee whose members include parents and administrators has met to discuss options and recommend solutions to the growing budget deficit, said District 123 Supt. Kathleen McCord. The quote: “This is a different situation,” said McCord. “People are going to lose their jobs, but we’re trying to make it minimal.”

Thursday, January 26, 2017

The Reporter

WHATIZIT?

Richards NHS students bring some comfort Richards students and Oak Lawn residents (from left) Shannon O’Brien, Ashley Rosebrock and Victoria Grant display a patterned blanket.

Project provides blankets for cancer patients By Kelly White

Photo by Joe Boyle

The clue for this week’s Whatizit photo quiz is: Kids building. Send your response with your name and hometown to thereporter@ comcast.net by noon Monday. We had a couple of readers who answered last week’s quiz. We accepted Lakeshore Park or the statue at Lakeshore Park at 96 E. East Shore Drive in Oak Lawn. Oak Lawn resident Steve Rosenbaum knew it was Lakeshore Park. Worth residents Jerry and Carol Janicki also knew it was the statue at Lakeshore Park. The statue features a boy and girl holding a turtle. It can be seen near East Shore Drive and Robertson Avenue. The park also features a playground and a tennis court. The nearby creek is a scenic site where residents can see ducks and a variety of birds.

SUDOKU

Answers on Page 9

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

ACROSS

1 Determination 5 One often schmeared 10 Get entangled (with) 14 “It depends” 15 Have __ for news 16 Ended a flight 17 Blue 18 Suppress 19 George Lucas group 20 Semiprecious stone 21 Sends out 22 Roast’s roost 23 2014 U.S. Women’s Open champ 24 Hamlet, for one 25 Succumb to pressure 26 Choose not to pick? 29 Bit of cheering 31 __ kwon do 32 Tiff 34 Computer outlet supply 35 Bruin legend 36 Furniture designed for portability ... or, what are found in this puzzle’s circles 40 Swung thing 41 Winged god 42 Alf and Mork, briefly 43 Aegean Airlines hub, on itineraries 44 Dauphins’ play area 45 Really beat 49 Relatives of emus 51 Exchange 55 Frito go-with? 56 Muppet with a unibrow 57 Hosiery shade 58 Unusual 59 “__ la Douce” 60 Playground denial 61 “Metamorphoses” poet 62 Operation Solomon carrier 63 Symbol of authority 64 “See you around!” 65 Word sung on New Year’s Day 66 Belgian expressionist James 67 46-Down, for one

DOWN 1 Isolated lines, in typesetting 2 Go-getter’s phrase 3 Many a character on “The Good Wife” 4 Web browser since 1992 5 Derived from, with “on” 6 Jungian concept 7 Was accepted as a member 8 Abstruse 9 Eye part 10 Significant 11 Vertical shuttle 12 Auxiliary seating units 13 Really tough puzzle, say 25 Has an ace up one’s sleeve 27 Healthcare.gov, for one 28 Computer outlet supplies 30 Workout woe 33 Telegram 34 British sports cars 36 Like some advice 37 2008 love triangle fil , with “The” 38 Viking 39 Follower’s suffix 40 The first ones were introduced in blonde and brunette in 1959 46 Eleventh-century Scandinavian leader 47 Contralto Anderson 48 Half-wild Asian canine 50 “And thereby hangs __”: Shak. 52 They may be measured in knots 53 Disco era term 54 Pan on Broadway 57 Immortal Yankee, with “The” 58 Sway

Answers on Page 9

Richards High School National Honor Society students worked together to bring comfort and warmth to pediatric cancer patients during this winter season. Under the supervision of Richards National Honor Society Moderator Dorothy Groff, 25 NHS students met after classes on Jan. 18 at the high school, 10601 S. Central Ave., Oak Lawn, to make fleece comfort blankets for pediatric cancer patients at Advocate Hope Children’s Hospital at Christ Medical Center, 4440 W. 95th St., Oak Lawn. “What makes this project unique is that the members of NHS actually make and wash the blankets themselves, instead of just buying them already made from a store,” Groff said. “They are very proud of their blankets and feel a sense that they are helping a child feel a little joy and warmth in a time of pain and sadness.” “I really enjoy this project because I like being able to give back to the community,” said Oak Lawn resident Victoria Grant, 16. The program began eight years ago when a student’s mother worked as a nurse at Advocate Hope Children’s Hospital and started a club to make blankets for children and needed more help. Groff, seeing it as a beneficial project to help others in need and allow for NHS students to gain service hours, took over leading the project. The NHS students, made up of

Submitted photo

juniors and seniors, made over 75 comfort blankets this year, surpassing last year’s amount, Groff said. The students were responsible for picking out their own fleece blanket designs from fabric at JoAnn Fabric or Walmart. The colorful fabrics have designs that include animals and cartoon and superhero characters, according to Groff. The idea behind this project is to have the students make these items work as a security blanket by helping to keep children warm during their treatment that takes place within the hospital, such as chemotherapy that may make them feel cold and afraid. “I really want the children in the hospital to be able to feel the warmth of home from these blankets,” said Cassandra Miller, 16, of Chicago Ridge. Children within the hospital will be able to pick out their own blanket from the many donated. “Every year we create more and more blankets for the pediatric patients,” Groff said. “This is a project that anyone can do.

Evergreen Park OKs upgrade requirements in hi-rise buildings By Sharon L. Filkins Ordinances approved at the Jan. 17 meeting of the Evergreen Park Village Board reflected a stable financial picture for village finances, and provided for future construction requirements to aid first responders in medical emergencies in high-rise buildings. In a unanimous vote the board approved an appropriation ordinance for the fiscal year beginning Nov. 1, 2016 and ending Oct. 31, 2017. The ordinance calls for an appropriation in the amount of $37,512,195 for the fiscal year. At a Jan. 3 public hearing on the proposed appropriation, Village Treasurer John Sawyers reported that the village is operating with a balanced budget. He added that while there had been some significant capital expenditures including new squad cars and a new ambulance the general fund has surplus funds totaling $11,000. Also carrying surplus funds is the sewer and water fund, in the amount of $41,600. The board also approved an ordinance calling for any new construction or renovation of buildings of two or more stories above grade or two or more levels below grade to include no less than one elevator to provide fire department emergency access to all floors. Additionally, the elevator car shall be able to accommodate an ambulance stretcher measuring 24 inches by 84 inches in the open horizontal position. The elevator will also be identified by the international symbol for emergency medical services (the star of life). The symbol shall be at least three inches in height and placed inside on both sides of the elevator door frame. The provisions outlined in the ordinance will apply to all newly constructed buildings and to all buildings being remodeled, renovated, or altered where the alteration costs are more than $100,000, and where the alteration costs are more than 15 percent of the reproduction cost of the facility. Mayor James Sexton stated that the ordinance had become necessary as the ambulance stretchers used for medical transportation have been increased in size. “The new ordinance will increase safety for our residents as well as enable our first responders to get a patient out of a building quicker, which is crucial in an emergency situation,” he said. In other matters, the board approved a request from Police

Chief Michael Saunders to hire a candidate from the probationary patrol officer eligibility list in order to fill a recently vacated position. Sexton also announced that free tax return preparation for seniors and disabled adults will be available in February by appointment only. Assistance will also be available in the Circuit Breaker Program and property tax freeze program through the Office of Citizen Services. For more information, call (708) 422-8776.

You don’t necessarily have to be crafty, and it is really a lot of fun for everyone.” “I remember making these blankets with my family when I was a child,” said Oak Lawn resident Ashley Rosebrock, 16. The 20 NHS members worked in teams of two or three and were made up of both female and male students. The blankets are created by hand by cutting and tying the fleece material together in a

square shape to create a blanket. They were then washed to get out all the dye out of the material so the blankets do not irritate a patient’s skin, and dried before being sealed in a plastic bag. That is done to prevent any spreading of germs or airborne pathogens. The blankets will be hand delivered by Groff and a team of 10 students to the oncology department at Advocate Hope Children’s Hospital in Oak Lawn at the end of this month.

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6 The Reporter

COMMENTARY

THE

Thursday, January 26, 2017

REPORTER

An Independent Newspaper Published Weekly Founded March 16, 1960

Ray Hanania

The new reality: Trump is president

Trump isn’t the first to battle media bias

onald Trump is now the 45th president of the United States. If a majority of people were in shock in November, they have had plenty of time to process the fact that he won. Of course, they don’t have to like it. Perhaps some of our readers don’t want to accept the fact. But the reality is that Trump is our president. And while we would have liked for his inauguration speech to be more inclusive instead of focusing on his supporters and what he calls the people that have been forgotten, it is up to us to make him accountable. Trump does not lack confidence. That could be a good trait in the days ahead. But we would like to see him reach out to the voters who did not support him. We did not hear any of that in his inauguration speech, but we assume he wanted to focus on reassuring those who rallied for him that they are included in his call for change in America. But we must be honest. We are not sure what to expect, because if Trump has been consistent in one area it is that he is unpredictable. That is what appeals to many of his faithful followers. In interviews we have seen and in comments to our paper, his ardent supporters say they like that he is not scripted and speaks about whatever is on his mind. Of course, we know all that by now. Now Trump has to get to work. This is something he has been consistently saying after he won the election. The first 100 days of office are often a flurry of activity for a new president. Trump’s first act as commander-in-chief was to sign an executive order late Friday at the White House — after the inauguration and before the three inaugural balls he was going to attend — to allow federal agencies to begin dismantling the Affordable Care Act. The ACA, commonly known as Obamacare, has been a hot-button issue for Republicans for years. They have been criticizing the act since it became law in 2013 but offered no alternative plan. Trump has been critical of the ACA and said a better plan is in the works. He has not been specific on what that is, but he mentioned that everyone in the U.S. would have health insurance. Many Republicans have not been cheering that statement. Some of them have been more careful in their assessment of the future fate of the ACA. We have seen some remarks by Republicans who have stated that insurance will “be available” for most citizens. That essentially means that the states will decide on insurance plans or block grants will be made available. If that is the case, then this won’t be a national health care program. But Trump did have a conversation with then-President Obama when they first met after the election. Trump came away from their longer-than-expected meeting with some positive statements about the ACA. He said that health insurance extended to adult children of parents up to age 26 should be included in a new bill. The ACA also does not exclude people who have a pre-existing health condition. Trump said at that the time that those two measures should be included in a national health care plan. We mentioned earlier that the new president does change his mind often. So we are not sure what his thinking is right now. Our opinion is that while some adjustments should be made to the ACA, gutting it and starting over would be a major mistake. Eliminating it without another plan in place would mean that 20 million people would suddenly be without insurance. People are still signing up for the Affordable Care Act right now through Jan. 31. We believe that Democrats and Republicans will take a long look at the ACA before making any rash changes. For bruised Democrats, it is time to regroup. They have to see if they can work with the new president. We believe they will find some common ground. And that goes for Democratic voters, too. We are not going over all the complaints about Trump here. If you oppose some of his plans, then make your voices heard through protests and voting. And we also think that not all Republicans should be celebrating. Trump’s ideology is a more nationalistic viewpoint. We expect that he will also upset members of the GOP in the coming months. Trump may or may not be successful, but he will be unique.

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P INSIDE THE FIRST AMENDMENT

An Inaugural Day ‘open letter’ — to the rest of us

By Gene Policinski

Sending an “open letter” to President Trump has been in vogue these days. Social activists, business moguls, media chieftains and political leaders all have penned a multitude of them since the November election. Some offer advice, some raise alarms, some offer praise and some just convey insults. All well and good — those exchanges and more are in the “free speech and free press” ethos protected by the First Amendment of speaking “truth to power” — even if the response from Trump more often and not has been to vigorously tar unfavorable messages as “untruth.” So this moment in history is just too ripe not to join in, but with a twist: Here’s my open letter about our core freedoms of speech, press, assembly, petition and religion... as a note not to the new commander in chief, but to the rest of us — “We, The People.” For those reveling today in Trump’s oath of office, take a moment to consider that the freedoms of speech and press which he seems to be targeting were in no small way vital to a campaign rooted in reaching out to those who felt marginalized, ignored or even betrayed by both major parties. Trump’s ongoing “fireside tweets” are both new to American politics and an echo of FDR’s similar mastery of the new medium of his era, radio, to speak directly to voters. He and we need to keep in mind that loosening libel laws to make it easier to sue a reporter also will make it easier to mount a legal challenge to all of us — including Trump — over our online comments. And then there’s Trump’s biting, emotional indictments of the news media. More than 60 news and free press organizations earlier this week sent a multi-page note to the president and Vice President Pence, asking for a meeting to discuss transparency and press access to their administration. We, the people, should endorse that call to coverage by our independent “watchdogs on government.” In turn, journalists must take action to reverse a widespread view — 74 percent in the latest State of the First Amendment survey — that the news media is failing to live up to its responsibility to be accurate and unbiased in news reports — or to, at the least — be transparent in declaring bias. Holding government accountable in public for how public policy is made, and

how public funds are spent, would seem to be a non-partisan objective we can all agree on. In that same SOFA survey, 71 percent of us said that was the case. We will need to keep in mind as a nation that discussion, dissent, disagreement and debate are the hallmarks of a strong and open system of self-governance — and provide the means for self-correction when this nation goes astray. Let’s consider how rare it is in the world to be able to peaceably assemble without fear of government persecution or prosecution, to petition the government for change. In like manner, there may be those who decry the “Women’s March” that followed the Inaugural parade by one day as divisive. But what a grand example to other nations: Hundreds of thousands of Americans on one day, celebrating the peaceful transition of national power after a heated, closely contested election — only to be followed a single day later, in the same space, by hundreds of thousands of Americans protesting the political particulars of that transfer. And finally, there’s certainly every reason to fear domestic and international terrorists. But we need to remember that targeting others solely because of their Muslim religious faith not only violates our nation’s unique commitment to respecting all faiths, but resurrects images of a time when unjustified wartime fear and disgraceful ethnic bias led us to intern Japanese Americans at the start of World War II. More than ever, as we enter this new “Era of Trump,” we should heed the call to duty as citizens expressed in the observation by my late colleague John Seigenthaler that “our First Amendment freedoms are never safe, never secure, but always in the process of being made safe and secure.” We may disagree — and often do — on how those five core freedoms of the First Amendment apply to any given set of facts. But we should all stand behind them against any attempt to limit, weaken or ignore them on the basis of the variable political winds, the power of fear — or even the impact of the occasional presidential tweet. Gene Policinski is chief operating officer of the Newseum Institute and senior vice president of the Institute’s First Amendment Center. He can be reached at gpolicinski@newseum.org. Follow him on Twitter: @genefac

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

Trump’s authoritarian style could put the U.S. in peril President-elect Donald Trump is setting the stage for a rocky presidency filled with conflict, bickering, turmoil, miscalculations, and potential diplomatic and military confrontations. So far, with his disdain for intelligence briefings and his lack of intellectual curiosity, I fear we could be in deep trouble in the world. Our adversaries, including Russia and China, could take advantage of Trump’s ego and his lackadaisical attitude towards the intelligence briefings. Trump’s children, Ivanka, Donald Jr. and Eric; and his son-in-law, Jared, are on the president-elect’s transition executive committee. They are involved in the decision-making process that determines who will be in the Trump administration, and it appears they will continue to be involved in the affairs of state when Donald takes the helm at the White House. The American people did not elect a Trump family committee to run our country. It appears Trump is going to have an arrogant rogue authoritarian administration. His administration appears to have the trappings of the military/industrial/ financial complex, and it does not bode well for our country. The media reported the CIA conducted an investigation of Russian interference in our presidential election and found significant hacking of Democratic information. The CIA analysis showed the Russian hacking negatively impacted

Clinton and helped Trump win the election. Trump and his transition staff subsequently denounced the CIA report and referenced the CIA’s past supposed mistake about Iraq having weapons of mass destruction. It is incredible to me that a resident is taking the side of Communist Russia and criticizing a U.S. intelligence agency that is responsible for our national security. Does Trump and any potential cabinet members and advisors have a relationship with Russia that would adversely impact decisions made by the Trump administration and endanger our national security? It doesn’t look good right now. Trump admires Putin; Tillerson, the potential secretary of state, has a number of joint ventures in place between Exxon/ Mobil and Russian oil companies; Flynn, potential national security advisor, is proRussian; and Bannon, senior consultant to Trump, is inspired by the views of Lenin, the founder of Russian Communism. Trump invited Russia to hack into Clinton’s emails and they responded by hacking into our election for president. All of these issues loom very large in a Trump presidency and could create chaos, constant controversy, and national and world insecurity in a potential authoritarian administration. Our democracy and freedom could be in peril. — Donald Moskowitz, Londonderry, N.H.

resident Donald Trump has vowed to change the White House relationship with the mainstream news media and expand access to include new media. And Trump is justified. The news media has been wrong on almost everything from politics to the attendance at his inauguration. Instead of discussing the inauguration crowd size, ABC’s George Stephanopoulos (a former top aide to Bill and Hillary Clinton) called Trump a liar on his Sunday morning show. It’s amazing how far the biased news media has gone to impact an election, which is not their job. Trump’s fight against media bias isn’t a new one. It happened before, in Chicago, and I was at the front lines of that storm. No one in the major media believed Jane Byrne would crush the Chicago Machine and Mayor Michael A. Bilandic in February 1979, but she did. Byrne’s biggest battle, though, was with the news media, and that is Trump’s challenge, too. Byrne failed, but in Trump’s case, he can succeed. Although Byrne began as a reformer, she flipped and embraced the very “Evil Cabal of Men” she denounced during her campaign in less than six months. Byrne made “Fast Eddie” Vrdolyak and the Chicago mob her council leadership, abandoning her reform council floor leaders, believing they were inept. She realized they were trying to strengthen her real political threat, Richie Daley. Byrne’s first anti-media outburst came in August 1979 in response to a column I wrote that detailed her plans to oust Cook County Circuit Clerk Morgan Finley. Finley broke a promise to hire her husband, Jay McMullen, two years before. The column angered McMullen, who threatened to punch me in the nose. “I don’t need my wife to fight my battles,” McMullen yelled, but his wife did fight his battles, blaming the story on media bias. Within one year, Byrne was fighting all the media. She ordered City Council Sergeant-at-Arms Mike Coletta to give 10 more community news outlets access to the already crowded City Hall Press Room. The newsroom had desks and telephones for myself, the Tribune, Sun-Times, WIND Radio, City News Bureau and the Defender. An ante-room had desks for WBBM, WMAQ and WBEZ radio. The added desks left no room to maneuver, but it didn’t work. Byrne invited the community news media to cover City Hall and “compete” with the Hall’s regular media. She was decades before her time. But the community media didn’t have the resources and couldn’t sustain the access. There was no internet, blogs or social media to circumvent the mainstream media to reach the Chicago area’s audience. The personal computer was new. I brought the first one to City Hall in 1979. The Tribune and the Sun-Times followed. Soon the media was mastering computer technology. But it’s different for Trump today. With the Internet and social media, Trump doesn’t have to be hostage to the mainstream news media, the way Byrne was. Trump can give his news to the alternate media of bloggers and Twitter scribes. Trump can tweet his releases instantly to 15 million followers and writers who can provide more objective coverage of his administration. He can ignore the big media networks like ABC, CBS, NBC, WGN and even FOX, and all of the newspaper giants like the Tribune, Washington Post, and more. Of the nation’s top 100 newspapers, only two endorsed Trump for president over Clinton. The predictions and analysis were wrong. Why should he continue to cater to them? Trump doesn’t have to give the media free space, telephones or Internet access. He doesn’t even have to give them rooms to work. They’re owned by big corporations and they can afford to pay. The smaller media is the media that needs support, including independent and community media that have traditionally been excluded from the White House by the major media and complicit administrations. Trump should invite independent journalists and columnists to cover his administration. Put them in the front row. Tell Stephanopoulos he’s out. This would encourage more diverse news reporting and more competition, something lacking today. Unlike Byrne, who failed, Trump can win. The times are different. The media has changed. The internet allows access to a huge audience. That would be good for America. Ray Hanania is an award-winning former Chicago City Hall reporter and political columnist. Email him at rghanania@ gmail.com.

Thursday, January 26, 2017

The Reporter

State Rep. Kelly Burke (D-36th, center) receives the “Champion of Higher Education” award from St. Xavier University President Christine Wiseman and FIICU Executive Director Dave Tressler.

Burke honored as ‘Champion for Higher Education’ State Rep. Kelly Burke (D-36th) was honored by the Federation of Independent Illinois Colleges and Universities as a “Champion of Higher Education.” “Our state is home to some of the nation’s best public and private colleges and universities and it’s important for us to continue investing in this vital resource,”

Submitted photo

Burke said. “I am ready to work in a bipartisan manner with lawmakers on both sides of the aisle to pass a fair and responsible budget that fully funds our colleges and universities and protects our most vulnerable residents.” Last week, Burke supported the passage of over $400 million in emergency

Palos Hills might acquire shuttered health and racquetball club By Michael Gilbert Palos Hills officials last week expressed unanimous interest in acquiring the property that currently houses the shuttered Palos Olympic Health & Racquetball Club through the Cook County No Cash Bid Program. City officials on Jan. 19 voted unanimously to direct City Attorney George Pappas to file the required documents with Cook County in an attempt to acquire the 1.8-acre property at 11050 S. Roberts Road through the No Cash Bid Program, an economic development tool designed to assist municipalities in acquiring tax delinquent property for reuse as private development and tax reactivation or for tax exempt municipal use. The Cook County Board of Commissioners will ultimately vote whether to approve the request. While the city would acquire the property from Cook County free of cost, Palos Hills Mayor Gerald Bennett said previous estimates showed it would cost approximately $90,000 to raze the building and clean up the site. Bennett has described the building, which is around 40 years old, as in “poor condition” and “obsolete” and would need to be demolished when redevelopment

occurs. The property has been sold several times since the racquetball club closed. Last summer there was a problem with teenagers going inside the building, but that problem has subsided since a fence was installed around the property and surveillance cameras installed. There are around $300,000 in back taxes on the property, Pappas said. No taxes were paid for the property in 2015, he added. The property is to go up for tax sale this spring but Pappas said no individual would purchase it because they would be responsible for the back taxes. Since the property has been delinquent for so many years the county would consider deeding it to the city contingent on Palos Hills providing a redevelopment plan for the site, Pappas said. “My thought is the only way to put an end to what is going on over there is for the city to acquire the property,” Bennett said. “Nothing will ever happen to that property because of the back taxes. It’s not worth purchasing because of the back taxes.” Bennett said the city’s initial plans for the site would be to leave it as open space, but should a developer come along expressing interest in the land, Palos Hills would have the option to petition

the county for the right to sell. Developers have previously come to the city proposing townhouses on the site, but those plans have never come to fruition. “That is probably the most ideal thing,” Bennett said of a townhome development. “But if we own the property we could now control and lay out what we think is a reasonable amount of units there. “We can sell the property for market value so on paper this not just getting rid of an eyesore but potentially the city could gain some revenue off the sale of it and control what goes in there.” Bennett said the property was once valued “at a couple million dollars,” but admitted that value “has come down over the years.” He did not have an exact figure for what the property is worth but said it would be “much more than $100,000.” The cost to rehab the site would come out of the city’s reserve fund, Bennett said. Ald. Mike LeBarre (3rd Ward) called acquiring the property “a no-brainer,” and Ald. Mary Ann Schultz (5th Ward) was also vocal in her support. “Seeing as this is in my ward, I would like to see us move on this,” Schultz said. “We’ve been sitting on this for 10 years. I think [this program with the county] would be a win-win for us.”

The No Cash Bid Program for this property is only available to Palos Hills, Bennett said. Any individual looking to purchase the property from Cook County would need to pay the $300,000 in back taxes. If the city obtains control of the land and then sells it, the purchaser would not be responsible for the back taxes. Ald. Ricky Moore (4th Ward) anticipated the city acquiring the property would be a popular one among residents. “I think a lot of people would be happy to hear that site is getting cleaned up,” he said. Ald. Dawn Nowak (5th Ward) also referred to the property as an “eyesore.” “My subdivision backs up to the property and it’s an eyesore,” she said. “Tearing down the building would open up a lot of possibilities. I’m in favor of it.” The other way for Palos Hills to acquire the property is through condemnation, but that would require the city to file a lawsuit and then pay the owner market value for the land, Pappas said. In other news, Ald. Joe Marrotta announced the Skating Under the Stars event scheduled for Friday, Jan. 27, at Glacier Park has been cancelled because of warm weather. It is unknown if the event will be rescheduled at a later date.

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

CHICAGO RIDGE Chicago History Museum trip The Chicago Ridge Park District is hosting a trip for residents of all ages to see the Chicago History Museum on Saturday, Jan. 28. The bus will leave the Freedom Activity Center, 6252 W. Birmingham St., Chicago Ridge, at 9 a.m. and is scheduled to return about 4 p.m. The registration fee is $7 for residents and $12 for non-residents. More information can be obtained by calling (708) 636-4900.

Plan trip to see Disney on Ice The Chicago Ridge Park District is hosting a trip to see Disney on Ice on Saturday, Feb. 11. Parents and kids can watch Dory along with Mickey, Minnie and other Disney characters. The bus leaves the Freedom Activity Center, 6252 W. Birmingham St., Chicago Ridge, at 5:15 p.m. for the show, which begins at 7 p.m. The bus will return after the show. The registration fee is $27 for residents and $37 for non-residents. More information can be obtained by calling (708) 636-4900.

Trip to the Chicago Auto Show The Chicago Ridge Park District will host a trip to the Chicago Auto Show on Wednesday, Feb. 15. The bus will leave the Freedom Activity Center, 6252 W. Birmingham St., Chicago Ridge, at 5:30 p.m. and is scheduled to return at 11 p.m. The registration fee is $7 for residents and $12 for non-residents. More information can be obtained by calling (708) 636-4900.

Daddy Daughter Date Night A Daddy-Daughter Dance will be held from 6:30 to 10 p.m. Friday, Feb. 10 at the Frontier Fieldhouse, 9807 S. Sayre Ave., Chicago Ridge. Dads can make a date with their favorite little girl or girls. The big night will include prizes, dinner, entertainment, dancing and a lot of fun. The fee is $25 for the resident couple and $40 for the non-resident couple. For each additional girl at the dance, the fee is an extra $8. Tickets are available at Frontier Fieldhouse or the Freedom Activity Center. More information can be obtained by calling Dominic Mallo, (708) 636-4900.

OAK LAWN Family Game Night Family Game Night will be held at 6 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 28 at the Pilgrim Faith United Church of Christ, 9411 S. 51st Ave., Oak Lawn. Guests can spend an evening of playing favorite board games and eating snacks. Visitors can bring in some games and friends for a light-hearted evening to escape the winter blues. The church is handicapped accessible. Guests should enter through the white door from the parking lot.

Fish Fry Fridays to begin at Stony Creek Restaurant Fish Fry Fridays will be held beginning in January at the Stony Creek Restaurant and Banquets, 5850 W. 103rd St., Oak Lawn. Open seating is available from 3 to 8 p.m. through April 14. The all-you-can-eat menu price includes fresh made creamy clam chowder or Stony Creek garden salad, warm diner rolls, homemade coleslaw, lightly seasoned and breaded fresh fruit, homemade hush puppies, baked potato or french fries. Shrimp po’ boy is made to order for $6.95 a sandwich. The cost is $12.95 for adults and $7.95 for children, ages 10 and under. Tax and gratuity are not included in price. A cash bar is available. For more information, contact (708) 857-2433.

Blessing of children to take place at Pilgrim Faith Blessing of young children will take place during the 9:30 a.m. worship service Sunday, Jan. 29 at Pilgrim Faith United Church of Christ, 9411 S. 51st Ave., Oak Lawn. Children will receive the blessing during the annual Candlemas celebration. Children will receive a blessing from the pastor and their parents will light a candle as the congregation prays for them. All young children and their parents are invited to this service. They do not have to be members of Pilgrim Faith. Anyone who would like their child to be included may call the church at (708) 422-4200.

Oak Lawn film group to view, discuss ‘Fail Safe’ CineVerse, the Oak Lawn Park District’s weekly film discussion group open to anyone age 17 and older, will screen and discuss the 1964 film “Fail Safe” from 7 to 10 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 1 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) 529-9029 or visit cineversegroup.blogspot.com.

Oak Lawn Park District to see ‘Saturday Night Fever Show’ The Oak Lawn Park District is headed to Drury Lane in Oakbrook on Thursday, March 2 for the “Saturday Night Fever Show.” The bus will depart at 11 a.m. from the Community Pavilion, 9401 S. Oak Park Ave., Oak Lawn, and is scheduled to return at 5 p.m. The fee is $80 for residents and $90 for non-residents. The show is recommended for ages 13 and over. Some of the material may be sensitive for younger viewers. The production is based on the 1977 hit film. “Saturday Night Fever.” The show features Bee Gees songs from the movie such as “Stayin’ Alive,” “More Than a Women,” and “Night Fever.” Lunch will be choice of pecan crusted tilapia with creamy roasted garlic butter, or grilled boneless pork chop with apple sauerkraut, garden salad, dinner rolls, choice of non-alcoholic beverage, chef’s selection of potato, vegetable and dessert. More information can be obtained by calling (708) 857-2200.

Oak Lawn Park District Teen Theatre to present ‘High School Musical’ Tickets are available for the Oak Lawn Park District Teen Show Theatre Production of “High School Musical.” The production will run at the Oak View Center, 4625 W. 110th St., Oak Lawn, on Friday, Feb. 10 and Friday, Feb. 17 at 8 p.m.; Saturday, Feb. 11 and Saturday, Feb. 18 at 8 p.m.; and Sunday, Feb. 12 and Sunday, Feb. 19 at 3 p.m. Tickets are $17. Disney’s smash hit movie musical comes to life as the star athlete and brainy girl he meets at East High decide to audition for the high school musical. Although many students resent the threat posed to the “status quo”, these two open the door for others to shine as well, in this popular, big song and dance musical for the whole family. Tickets are available at the Oak View Center, by phone at (708) 857-2200, or at www. olparks.com.

Oak Lawn film club to view and discuss ‘About Schmidt’ CineVerse, the Oak Lawn Park District’s weekly film discussion group open to anyone age 17 and older, will screen and discuss the

funding for state universities, community colleges, and the MAP Grant program to help thousands of students cover education costs. The measure Burke backed would also provide funding for women’s shelters, autism programs and home care services for thousands of seniors.

DEATH NOTICES Irene DeBelina Irene J. DeBelina (nee Wasuik), 87, a former Hickory Hills resident, died Jan. 8 at the Aspen House in Loveland, Colo. Mrs. DeBelina was an employee at White Castle in Chicago. She was a member of Klub Polakow “Santa Rosa.” Survivors include daughters, Anne Frale and Elka Starks; sister, Lillian Igraszek; brother, Zbigniew Wasuik; five grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews. Services were Tuesday from Zarzycki Manor Chapels to St. Patricia Church. Interment took place at Resurrection Cemetery.

Carolyn Kudla Carolyn Joyce Kudla (nee Rodgers-DeBartolo), 77, an Evergreen Park resident, died Saturday at the Bridgeview Nursing Home. Mrs. Kudla was a homemaker. Survivors include daughters, Cheryl Williams and Jennifer Piotrowski; sons, Joseph P., Gregory and Kenneth Kudla; nine grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews. Visitation is from 3 to p.m. today (Thursday, Jan. 26) at Kosary Funeral Home, 9837 S. Kedzie Ave., Evergreen Park. Services are 10:30 a.m. Friday, Jan. 27 at the Kosary Funeral Home chapel. Interment will follow at Resurrection Cemetery.

Raymond Przybyla Raymond S. Przybyla, 96, a former longtime resident of Evergreen Park, died Jan. 18 at Meadowbrook Manor in Bolingbrook. Mr. Przybyla, a U.S. World War II Army veteran, was an order clerk for a retail company. Survivors include a daughter, Bobbie Delasso; brothers and sisters; two grandchildren; one great-grandchild; and many nieces and nephews. Services were Monday from Curley Funeral Home to St. Bernadette Church. Interment followed at Resurrection Cemetery.

Michael Sherry 2002 film “About Schmidt” from 7 to 10 p.m., Feb. 8 at the Oak View Community Center, 4625 W. 110th St., Oak Lawn. Members should check the building signage for the correct room number. For more information, call (708) 529-9028 or visit cineversegroup.blogspot.com.

Musician and singer to perform at Stony Creek

John Devlin will perform from 8 to 11 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 4 at the Oak Lawn Park District’s Stony Creek Restaurant and Banquets, 5850 W. 103rd St., Oak Lawn. Devlin is an acoustical guitarist and vocalist who plays music from the 1960s to 1990s with songs from the Beatles, Neil Young, James Taylor and Billy Joel. Doors open at 7 p.m. The cover charge is $5. A cash bar along with food and drink specials is available. Guests must be ages 21 or older. For more information, call (708) 857-2433.

PALOS HILLS Palos Hills cancels Skate Under Stars because of weather The City of Palos Hills Resource and Recreation Department has canceled their annual Skate Under the Stars event, which was scheduled for Friday, Jan. 27. The department is still deciding on whether the event will be made up in the future. The Department will be hosting a Prince of Hearts Mother/Son Dance from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Friday, Feb. 10 at the Community Center, 8455 W. 103rd St., Palos Hills. The event will include a light dinner, dancing and a souvenir. Grandmothers are invited as well. For more information or to register, call the Palos Hills Community Center at (708) 430-4500. Open gym for youngsters is offered at the Rec Center. The Palos Hills Resource and Recreation Center also offers an open gym for kids walking to 3 years old and their parents and caregivers from 9:30 to 11 a.m. Fridays at the Palos Hills Community Center, 8455 W. 103rd St. The fee for residents is $2 per child or $3 per child for non-residents. The program continues through May 12. For further information, contact the City of Palos Hills Resource and Recreation Department at (708) 430-4500.

WORTH Worth Park District to take part in youth basketball league In cooperation with the Worth Park District, Palos Park and Palos Heights Parks and Recreation Departments, a youth basketball league for boys and girls in grades one through eight will be offered beginning Saturday, Jan. 28 at the new Palos Heights Recreation Center, 6601 W. 127th St., Palos Heights. An eight-game season will be held with all games played at the new Palos Heights Recreation Center. Fees vary according to grade. For more information on the Youth Basketball Program and other Worth Park District programs and services, call (708) 448-7080 or visit the park district’s website at www. worthparkdistrict.org.

‘Girls Night Out’ A “Girls Night Out” will be held from 6 to 9 p.m. Friday, Jan. 27 at the Worth Park District’s Terrace Centre, 11500 S. Beloit Ave. Women can learn about jewelry making, makeovers and socializing with friends. A movie and snacks will also be provided. The registration fee is $8 for residents and $16 for non-residents. More information can be obtained by calling (708) 448-7080 or visiting the park district’s website at www.worthparkdistrict.org.

Michael R. Sherry, 69, died Friday at his Hickory Hills home. Mr. Sherry was a sales agent for over 43 years at State Farm Insurance. Survivors include his wife of over 50 years, Dixie (nee King); daughter, Diane Mankowski; son, Kevin; sisters, Ruth Schmitt and Patricia Robbins; brother, Nathan; two grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews. Services were Wednesday from the Palos-Gaidas Funeral Home to St. Patricia Church. Interment will be held at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery. Arrangements were made by Orrico Kourelis Funeral Services, Inc.

Funeral Directory Palos-Gaidas FUNERAL HOME

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

11028 Southwest Highway Palos Hills, IL 60465

“THE NEXT GENERATION TO CARE FOR YOU”

Owned and Operated by the Mintle Family

10701 S. Harlem Ave. Worth, IL 708.448.6000 “Your Neighborhood Funeral Home”

8 The Reporter

Thursday, January 26, 2017

COMINGS & GOINGS

What’s smarter — paying off your debts or investing?

Jr.’s Hot Dogs closes doors in Tinley Park

nother longtime business closed recently in Tinley Park when Jr.’s Hot Dogs shut its doors at 8020 W. 171st St. According to a sign on its front door, owners John and Bernie decided to close the restaurant and retire after 17 years. They thanked customers for their patronage and loyalty over the years and said they would be missed. Jr.’s locations in Mokena, Palos Heights, Crestwood, Burbank and Oak Lawn remain open.

Bob Bong

Pain center grand opening in Orland Expert Pain Physicians Pain & Spine Wellness Center will hold its grand opening open house and ribbon cutting from 11:45 a.m. to 1 p.m. Friday, Jan. 27, at 10750 W. 143rd St. Suite 50 in Orland Park. The pain management clinic is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday and Tuesday and Thursday, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Wednesday and Friday. For more information, call 708-981-3901 or visit www.expertpainmd.com.

Jimmy John’s open in Summit Champaign-based Jimmy John’s Gourmet Sandwiches opened its latest southwest suburban location last month in Summit.

Jr.’s Hot Dogs is now closed in Tinley Park after the retirement of its owners.

The sandwich shop, which prides itself on “freaky fast delivery,” opened Dec. 28 in a new strip center at 5836 S. Harlem Ave. A Pizza Hut will be joining Jimmy John’s in the same strip center later this year. The owner is Jeff Fort, who owns several Jimmy John’s franchises, according to the company. Hours for the shop are 10:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday to Thursday and from 10:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday. The shop offers delivery and pickup. For more information, call (708) 9244040 or visit jimmyjohns.com.

Photo by Bob Bong

Aldi to reopen in Chicago Heights German-based Aldi will reopen its newly remodeled and expanded grocery store on Friday in Chicago Heights. The store at 527 W. 14th St. will reopen at 8:30 a.m. Friday, Jan. 27. If you see a new business in town or wonder what happened to an old favorite, drop me a line at bobbong@hotmail.com. You can also catch up on Comings & Goings in other parts of the Southland at www.southlandbusinessnews.com and www.southlandsavvy.blogspot.com

AREA PROPERTY TRANSFERS Following are the property transfers in the area, according to the latest report, as received from the Cook County Recorder of Deeds Office. The Reporter Newspaper does not attempt to correct errors made by that office.

Bula Tomasz K to Guzman Miguel, 8713 S 83rd Ave, $235,000; Neubaum Daniel to Bodyziak Lukasz, 7800 W 95th St, Unit #91582B, $116,000; Mechenes Wayne A Tr to Said Nazmi Y, 8236 W 93rd St, $280,000; Vandervelde James R Tr to Cios Marek S, 9100 W Shady Dr, $165,000; Sherman Lois E to Tyrrell Diane S, 7800 W 95th St, Unit #G6, $118,500.

Oakley Steven E Tr to Elwawy Fatima I, 8809 51st Ave, $161,000; Wyrobek Joseph M to ZBI Remdl Inc, 10524 Kedvale Ave, $150,500; Tebishat Hassan to Masoodi Hind Abas, 11000 S Keating Ave, Unit #2A, $80,000; Morrissey George M to Gue Gerard, 10115 Cook Ave, $240,000; Smith Jacquelyn to Zemke Alex, 10632 Laramie Ave, $241,000; Leonard Jennifer N to Matyja Michael, 10332 Washington Ave, $255,000; Marquette Bk Tr to Mcgue Family LLC, 6049 W 95th St, $1,200,000; Vassios Theodore W to Flores Jose J Aceves, 9605 Melvina Ave, $125,000; Ephraim Michaek K Tr to Hindi Walid, 8835 Natoma Ave, $268,000; Hudgins Kathleen Tr to Alikhan Kulsoom, 9520 Mayfield Ave, Unit #102N, $55,000; Cromweoo Lorraine G to Kohler Sarah, 4912 92nd St, $150,000; Marquette Bk Tr to Paz Pedro E Perez, 5911 W 88th St, $254,000; Turquoise Const LLC to Cepeda Gilberto V, 5154 W 91st St, $394,000; Ziolkowski Rita Tr to Munassar Anisah, 10441 S Circle Dr, Unit #G10C, $84,000; Fannie Mae to Aguirre Daniel, 5729 101st St, $207,000; Meier Amy Extr to TC Masonry Inc, 9809 51st Ave, $82,000; Voith Daniel R Tr to Ahmed Faidelrahman S, 9550 Mason Ave, Unit #13076, $72,000; Vimarco Gina L to Stuckart Ralf, 10910 Kilpatrick Ave, Unit #3SE, $72,000; Southwest Chgo Christian School Assn to MW Real Estate Inv LLC, 5665 101st St, $1,591,000; Ali Sajid to Hussein Hussein M, 10344 Central Ave, $325,000; J & P Real Estate Holding LLC to Liakh Vadim, 10921 S Keating Ave, $483,000.

Oak Lawn

Palos Hills

Myers Stephanie Elaine to Mraz Ryan Robert, 9820 Pulaski Rd, Unit #1172, $65,000; Riley Investments LLC to Vittorio Daniel S, 10510 S Kostner Ave, $463,500; First Midwest Bk Tr to Cruz Gabriel III, 10437 S Knox Ave, $130,000; Bank New York Mellon to Hammerhead Investments LLC, 9400 69th Ct, $175,000; Eklund Douglas L Tr to Mrochen George J, 10021 Parke Ave, $235,000; Wiatr Erik to Barr Dawn M, 9929 Cook Ave, $175,000;

Mensching Richard W Tr to Edwards Mark, 7924 W Tiffany Ct, $168,000; Mitchell Rita G to Guzy Bogdan, 8771 Waterfront Dr, Unit #87713A, $164,500; Whalen Judith Tr to Szczechowicz Marta, 8204 Millstone Dr, Unit #71C, $133,000; First Secure B&T Co Tr to Spiczak James F, 11045 Theresa Cir, Unit #2B, $135,000; Judicial Sales Corp to Pituch Kamil, 8728 W 103rd St, $161,000.

March

ideology and ideas within the fabric of this administration so that it reflects the interests of all people. When I have a third-grader saying, “Mom, I want to march to protect our life from crime, I want the guns gone” — that’s enlightening. She’s paying attention. Or when she asks, “Is Donald Trump going to send my friends back to Mexico?” These kids are American citizens, but because of their ethnicity they believe they are at risk to be targeted unfairly and have expressed this to her. When I was 9 years old, I couldn’t have expounded on any issues regarding the presidency or politics, period. My bright and beautiful daughter is light years ahead of where I was. I suppose that’s why ‘Mr. Elderly Man’ struck a chord when he asked, “What have YOU been doing?” I’ve been doing the minimum: I vote. Voting is a start, but if we really want to evoke change, we need to

Chicago Ridge Zeiger Dale M Tr to Abdulelah Tawfik, 10601 S Mayfield Ave, $280,000; Colavecchi David Vincent to Dominiak Marek R, 6520 Fireside Dr, $162,500; First Midwest Bk Tr to Malgioglio Anthony T, 9800 S Sayre Ave, Unit #2D, $82,000; Estrada Mark A to Johnson John W, 10519 Princess Ave, $168,500; Marchuk Andriy to Haynes Tommy D, 9823 S Nottingham Ave, Unit #310, $86,000.

Evergreen Park Miarstar Prop LLC to Phoenix Godfrey C, 9529 S Sacramento Ave, $126,000; Mcsurley J Oliver to Bailey Kathleen M, 10205 S Homan Ave, $230,000; Badke Brian to Rowan Zeke Michael Each, 9805 S Turner Ave, $196,000; Adamski Natalie to Harris Michael, 2920 W 102nd Pl, $230,000; Olivares Gloria to Banks Corey A, 2748 W 95th Pl, $220,000.

Hickory Hills

Continued from Page 1

by a large group of white protesters. There wasn’t a single black person among them. I took a ton of pictures. My favorite is of my daughter, Donae, standing with three black female uniformed police officers. I posted it to social media with “#BlueLivesMatter, #BlackLivesMatter #YoungLivesMatter, @WomensMarchChicago and #StrongerTogether.” An elderly man I happened to spot packed in the crowd like a sardine took a stance that caused me to ponder. He wobbled as he walked, his balance supported by a cane on one side and female companion on the other. I’d climbed above the sea of people to stand on a 15-foot concrete embankment. “God bless you, sir. Thank you for being here,” I yelled to him with a smile. His response caught me off guard. He stopped, turned

back to look at me and spewed a rebuke. “I’ve been doing this for 50 years, 50! What have YOU been doing?” Shanett, seeing the “huh?” expression on my face, quickly redirected the awkward exchange. “We’re right behind you, sir. We’re following your lead.” “What’s his deal,” I wondered? I was paying him a compliment and he chewed me out! Hmmm. What have I been doing? Apparently, not enough! Critics of these women’s marches say, “Your efforts might have been better served before November. What’s the point of all this now? It’s too late!” To them I say: Don’t underestimate the power of women. If we can launch a movement of 2.5 million protesters globally…what else might we be able to accomplish? The objective isn’t to remove the current administration. Well, for some it might be, but that will probably take four years. I’m thinking more along the lines of using our energy to impart our

Blizzard

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ground. The majority of schools had to close and people had difficulty getting to work. In fact, many Oak Lawn residents left work early on Jan. 26 as the snow was coming down at a rate of two inches an hour throughout the afternoon. Even a busy area like 95th Street had virtually no traffic after the snowfall. Vehicles were stuck on side streets and usually busy corridors. Buses could not move because of the heavy snow. Many people had to walk miles and miles to reach their Oak Lawn destinations. Kevin Korst, the local history coordinator for the Oak Lawn Library, said that most people who talk about those days were younger kids at the time living in Oak Lawn, and many of them have fond memories of the blizzard. “You know what came across as much as anything when talking to people about the blizzard is that most of the things that

were said were a microcosm of what was going on everywhere else then,” said Korst. “People who I talked to were kids at the time. They recall having a good time. No one could get around. The store shelves were almost empty. A lot of schools were closed for a few days. “A lot of people told me that they remember going to the store with their parents and they used a sled to carry the groceries,” added Korst. The snowstorm is a smaller display that can be found on the second floor of the library and shares a larger section dedicated to Oak Lawn’s history dating back to over 100 Years. Over 30 to 40 images from the snowstorm are on display, along with some newspaper accounts of the blizzard. Korst said a larger display will be built dedicated to the tornado that struck the village that April and had an enormous impact on the community. While kids were sledding and having snowball fights after the Blizzard of 1967, the next few days were tough on people trying to go to work. Most kids made it to school and adults made it work on Jan 26. But the

get to know our legislation like we do our neighbors. I’ve had the privilege of meeting my Illinois state Sen. Bill Cunningham (D18th) and Evergreen Park state Rep. Kelly Burke (D-36th). Local government helped me restore Respite Care service for my cognitively disabled daughter when funding was cut. As constituents, we have power that’s underutilized. Our elected officials are put in office to help fulfill the needs of the people. Let’s not bypass them on our way to the next march. Invite them to the party. Share your ideas and your concerns. Contrary to negative political perception, most of them really do want to help. Who knows, they just might be able to save us a little tread on our marching shoes. Claudia Parker is an author, photographer and a reporter. Her columns appear every second and fourth Thursday of each month. She can be reached at AuthorClaudiaParker@yahoo.com.

snow kept falling and by noon there were eight inches on the ground. O’Hare Airport shut down while businesses began to let employees go home early. According to some published reports, at least a dozen babies were born at home in the Chicago area. Another problem after the storm was low supplies of heating oil. Trucks could not get access to buildings. The Chicago area began to slowly start digging itself out on Saturday, Jan. 28. Weather forecasts were not as sophisticated as they are today. Initial reports had predicted a few inches of snow. On Thursday morning, the total was increased from four to eight inches. It was the greatest snowfall in a day in Chicago area history, with 16.4 inches of snow on Jan. 26. That record was broken when 18.6 of snow fell on Jan. 2, 1999. “I did hear that Mayor (Fred) Dumke, who was the Oak Lawn mayor at the time, did a pretty good job of clearing the streets,” Korst said. “Matter of fact, I heard that most of the local municipalities did a better job of clearing the streets than Chicago. But maybe that was to be expected.”

gage can be considered f you’re just starta “good” type of debt, ing out in your so you may not need to career, you will rush to pay it off. And need to be prepared from an investment to face some financial standpoint, your home challenges along the is somewhat “illiquid” way – but here’s one – it’s not always easy that’s not unpleasant: to get money out of it. choosing what to do If you put your extra with some extra disScott into traditional posable income. When Johnson money investments, such as this happens, what stocks and bonds, you should you do with the may increase your growth money? Your decisions could potential, and you may gain an make a real difference in your income stream through interest ability to achieve your imporpayments and dividends. tant financial goals. • Consider tax advantages Under what circumstances of investing. Apart from your might you receive some mortgage, your other debts “found” money? You could likely won’t provide you with get a year-end bonus from your employer, or a sizable tax any tax benefits. But you can refund, or even an inheritance. get tax advantages by putting money into certain types of However the money comes to investment vehicles, such as a you; don’t let it “slip through your fingers.” Instead, consider traditional or Roth IRA. When these two moves: investing the you invest in a traditional IRA, your contributions may money or using it to pay off be deductible, depending on debts. your income, and your money Which of these choices grows on a tax-deferred basis. should you pick? There’s no (Keep in mind that taxes will one “right” answer, as everybe due upon withdrawals, and one’s situation is different. But any withdrawals you make here are a few general considbefore you reach 59½ may be erations: subject to a 10 percent IRS • Distinguish between penalty.) Roth IRA contribu“good” and “bad” debt. Not tions are not deductible, but all types of debt are created your earnings are distributed equal. Your mortgage, for tax-free, provided you don’t example, is probably a “good” take withdrawals until you form of debt. You’re using the reach 59½ and you’ve had your loan for a valid purpose – i.e., living in your house – and you account at least five years. Clearly, you’ve got some likely get a hefty tax deducthings to ponder when choostion for the interest you pay. ing whether to use “extra” On the other hand, nondeductible consumer debt that carries money to pay off debts or invest. Of course, it’s not always a high interest rate might be an “either-or” situation; you considered “bad” debt – and this is the debt you might want may be able to tackle some debts and still invest for the to reduce or eliminate when you receive some extra money. future. In any case, use this money wisely – you weren’t By doing so, you can free up necessarily counting on it, but money to save and invest for you can make it count for you. retirement or other goals. • Compare making exScott Johnson, CFP, is a tra mortgage payments vs. financial advisor with Edward investing. Many of us get some psychological benefits by Jones, 8146 W. 111th St., Palos Hills, (708) 974-1965. Edward making extra house payments. Jones does not provide legal Yet, when you do have some advice. This article was writextra money, putting it toward ten by Edward Jones for use your house may not be the by your local Edward Jones best move. For one thing, as financial advisor. mentioned above, your mort-

Nine Little Company physicians named top cancer doctors by Chicago Magazine Nine physicians on staff at Little Company of Mary Hospital and Health Care Centers (LCMH) are named Top Cancer Doctors in the January issue of Chicago Magazine. Honorees were nominated by physicians nationwide who were asked to consider such factors as clinical excellence, bedside manner, education, and board certification. Selected to the list from the medical oncology department

are Dr. Simon Chivu, Dr. Philip Hoffman, Dr. Jayanthi Ramadurai, Dr. Subramanya Rao and Dr. Todd Zimmerman. Dr. Jill De Jong and Dr. Jennifer McNeer were selected from the pediatric hematology and oncology department. Dr. Jessica Kandel was selected to the magazine’s list from the pediatric surgery department. Dr. Azhar Awan was named to the list from the radiation oncology department at Little Company.

SXU to host medical marijuana discussion A discussion on medical marijuana and pain management will be held at 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 9 at St. Xavier University, 3700 W. 103rd St., Chicago. Dr. Judith Paice, Ph, RN, FAAN, director of the cancer pain program in the division of Hematology-Oncology and a research professor of medicine at Northwestern University, Feinberg School of Medicine, is the guest speaker. She believes marijuana can be used to ease the pain, nausea, and loss of appetite associated with cancer and HIV

disease. The event, which is being held in Warde Academic Center’s Butler Reception Room, is being held in conjunction with the SXU School of Nursing for Scholarly Conversations in Nursing. Admission is $20, which includes hors d’oeuvres and beverages. A cash bar will be available and registration is required by Friday, Feb. 3. Currently, 28 states have legalized the use of medical marijuana.

Mortgage Rates Around the Area First Midwest Bank (as of January 17) 30-year fi ed

RATES 4.125

APR 4.160

POINTS 0

15-year fi ed

3.250

3.305

30-year fi ed Jumbo

4.125

4.170

United Trust Bank (as of January 23) 30-year fi ed

RATES 4.125

APR 4.146

POINTS 0

15-year fi ed

3.500

3.537

10-year fi ed

3.375

3.428

Prospect Federal (as of January 23) 30-year fi ed

RATES 4.125

APR 4.171

POINTS .25

20-year fi ed

3.875

3.938

.25

15-year fi ed

3.375

3.438

.25

All rates subject to change daily. Equal opportunity lenders.

The Reporter

Thursday, January 26, 2017

Ridge

Continued from Page 1

long-term plan and everyone in the community is rallying behind this. Basically, we are getting the word out and everybody is excited.” Enrollment has been as high as 196 at Our Lady of the Ridge, but it has declined over the years. But Grisolano is confident because the community is reaching out and the majority of current students have signed up for next fall. Enrollment had slipped to about 115, but there over 130 students now. After the open house and the push for enrollment, those figures should rise, according to school officials. The school is required to raise about $250,000 by the end of February. Alumni board members say they have raised nearly $100,000 going into this week. Our Lady of the Ridge had to raise their tuition by about $1,000, to nearly $3,700 per year. Along with the open house on Sunday, the Our Lady of the Ridge alumni and friends are holding a fundraiser from 4 to 10 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 19 at 115 Bourbon Street, 3359 W. 115th St., Merrionette Park. The fee is $35 for food and refreshments. Entertainment and raffles will also be held. Sr. Stephanie Kondik, principal at Our Lady of the Ridge, shares Grisolano’s confidence. She said the school is special and refers to it as a “little gem.” Kondik has served two terms at Our Lady of the Ridge, spending eight years in the interim at St. Patricia School in Hickory Hills. After her term at St. Patricia, Kondik returned to Our Lady of Ridge in 2002 and has been principal at Our Lady of Ridge for 23 years overall.

LEGAL NOTICE

“We have had people coming out from all over to help out,” she said. “The parents have been unbelievable. We have had businesses and the community helping out.” Grisolano and the principal said Our Lady of Ridge offers students a variety of programs, including the OLOR Junior Stewardship Club. Abby Cross, executive director of StandUp for Kids, met with Our Lady of Ridge club students in the fourth through eighth grade Wednesday to thank them for coordinating a donation of 10 bags of clothing, socks and personal items to be used in the work of finding, stabilizing and assisting youths on the streets. The school also has a choir, band and athletic programs. Sr. Stephanie said that parent volunteers will be on hand at the open house to greet residents who can sign up to help assist with school programs. The parish has also provided subsidies to help some parents pay their children’s tuition. “I think Our Lady of the Ridge really helps out students,” Kondik said about the school, which opened in 1954. “They are protected here and they are safe. We provide some sanity for them. The kids get a solid education. It’s a little school that deals with the whole child. The whole community is behind us and we pray for each other.” Grisolano has a son who attends Our Lady of the Ridge and a toddler whom she hopes will be able to do the same. “Our Lady of the Ridge, as cliché as it sounds, is a real community,” she said. “They have welcomed my son with open arms. I’m still in association with alumni and everyone loves the school. I have a little one run running around here right now and I would like to see him go to Our Lady of the Ridge.”

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

QUICKEN LOANS, INC. Plaintiff, -v.PATRICIA A. CLAUSSEN-MULLIGAN, INDIVIDUALLY, PATRICIA A. CLAUSSEN-MULLIGAN AS TRUSTEE OF THE PATRICIA A. CLAUSSEN TRUST DATED NOVEMBER 14, 1996 Defendants

TCF NATIONAL BANK Plaintiff, -v.JAMES W. COZZIE A/K/A JAMES COZZIE, CATHERINE M. COZZIE A/K/A CATHERINE COZZIE, CAPITAL ONE BANK (USA), N.A., LHR INC., STATE OF ILLINOIS, DEPARTMENT OF REVENUE, MB FINANCIAL BANK, N.A., SUCCESSOR TO CORUS BANK, N.A., UNKNOWN OWNERS AND NON-RECORD CLAIMANTS Defendants

16 CH 37561 8021 W. 91ST STREET Hickory Hills, IL 60457 NOTICE OF SALE PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above cause on October 4, 2016, an agent for The Judicial Sales Corporation, will at 10:30 AM on February 21, 2017, at The Judicial Sales Corporation, One South Wacker Drive - 24th Floor, CHICAGO, IL, 60606, sell at public auction to the highest bidder, as set forth below, the following described real estate: LOT 10 IN MOWATT’S HIGHLAND MEADOW SUBDIVISION OF THE NORTH 10 ACRES (EXCEPT THE NORTH 16 1/2 FEET) OF THE NORTHEAST 1/4 OF THE SOUTHEAST 1/4 OF SECTION 2, TOWNSHIP 37 NORTH, RANGE 12, EAST OF THE THIRD PRINCIPAL MERIDIAN, IN COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS. Commonly known as 8021 W. 91ST STREET, Hickory Hills, IL 60457 Property Index No. 23-02-422-004-0000. The real estate is improved with a single family residence. The judgment amount was $150,981.99. Sale terms: 25% down of the highest bid by certified funds at the close of the sale payable to The Judicial Sales Corporation. No third party checks will be accepted. The balance, including the Judicial sale fee for Abandoned Residential Property Municipality Relief Fund, which is calculated on residential real estate at the rate of $1 for each $1,000 or fraction thereof of the amount paid by the purchaser not to exceed $300, in certified funds/or wire transfer, is due within twenty-four (24) hours. No fee shall be paid by the mortgagee acquiring the residential real estate pursuant to its credit bid at the sale or by any mortgagee, judgment creditor, or other lienor acquiring the residential real estate whose rights in and to the residential real estate arose prior to the sale. The subject property is subject to general real estate taxes, special assessments, or special taxes levied against said real estate and is offered for sale without any representation as to quality or quantity of title and without recourse to Plaintiff and in AS IS condition. The sale is further subject to confirmation by the court. Upon payment in full of the amount bid, the purchaser will receive a Certificate of Sale that will entitle the purchaser to a deed to the real estate after confirmation of the sale. The property will NOT be open for inspection and plaintiff makes no representation as to the condition of the property. Prospective bidders are admonished to check the court file to verify all information. If this property is a condominium unit, the purchaser of the unit at the foreclosure sale, other than a mortgagee, shall pay the assessments and the legal fees required by The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/9(g)(1) and (g)(4). If this property is a condominium unit which is part of a common interest community, the purchaser of the unit at the foreclosure sale other than a mortgagee shall pay the assessments required by The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/18.5(g-1). IF YOU ARE THE MORTGAGOR (HOMEOWNER), YOU HAVE THE RIGHT TO REMAIN IN POSSESSION FOR 30 DAYS AFTER ENTRY OF AN ORDER OF POSSESSION, IN ACCORDANCE WITH SECTION 15-1701(C) OF THE ILLINOIS MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE LAW. You will need a photo identification issued by a government agency (driver’s license, passport, etc.) in order to gain entry into our building and the foreclosure sale room in Cook County and the same identification for sales held at other county venues where The Judicial Sales Corporation conducts foreclosure sales. For information, contact Plaintiff s attorney: POTESTIVO & ASSOCIATES, P.C., 223 WEST JACKSON BLVD, STE 610, Chicago, IL 60606, (312) 263-0003 Please refer to file number C16-37561. THE JUDICIAL SALES CORPORATION One South Wacker Drive, 24th Floor, Chicago, IL 60606-4650 (312) 236-SALE You can also visit The Judicial Sales Corporation at www.tjsc.com for a 7 day status report of pending sales. POTESTIVO & ASSOCIATES, P.C. 223 WEST JACKSON BLVD, STE 610 Chicago, IL 60606 (312) 263-0003 E-Mail: ilpleadings@potestivolaw.com Attorney File No. C16-37561 Attorney Code. 43932 Case Number: 16 CH 37561 TJSC#: 36-12215 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.

Lipinski introduces resolution celebrating Catholic Schools Week Cong. Dan Lipinski (D-3rd)) has introduced a resolution celebrating Catholic Schools Week and honoring what he describes as the outstanding work of Catholic schools in the Chicago area and across the nation. Catholic Schools Week, which begins this year on Sunday, Jan. 29, has been an annual event since 1974. This year’s theme is “Catholic Schools: Communities of Faith, Knowledge, and Service.” Lipinski’s resolution expresses support for “the vital contributions of the thousands of Catholic elementary and secondary schools in the United States”

and “the key role they play in promoting and ensuring a brighter, stronger future for the nation.” It recognizes that Catholic schools produce academically successful students, foster a commitment to service, family, and community, and accept students from all faiths and backgrounds. “I really appreciate what a blessing it is to be educated in Catholic schools,” said Lipinski. “My own desire to go into public service was fostered by dedicated teachers, administrators, and clergy throughout my years at St. Symphorosa Grammar School and St. Ignatius College

Prep in Chicago. In recognizing Catholic Schools Week, we honor the many teachers and administrators who sacrifice so much, in most cases working for less than they could earn elsewhere. Some of my favorite memories are of teachers who ingrained in me the values of faith, knowledge, and service. I can’t thank them enough.” Schools typically observe the annual celebration week with Masses, open houses, and other activities for students, families, parishioners, and community members. During the week, Lipinski will visit several schools in the district.

Peace

the Sinsinawa Dominican Congregation, have determined that the school will discontinue operations as of June 2017.” According to Tuesday night’s statement from the school, while the annual per student cost to educate is $15,500, tuition at Queen of Peace is set at $10,500. However, more than 60 percent of students require financial assistance throughout their four years of high school. “We appreciate all of our invaluable donors and longtime supporters but we simply have not been able to raise the more than $1 million above-and-beyond tuition required each year to continue to ensure a quality education,” O’Malley added. A transition team has been established to help students identify the best options for completion of their high school education. Queen of Peace alumnae, as well as parents of current students, took to social media late Tuesday to express

emotions ranging from shock to sadness to anger and frustration. “We are having a sad evening,” one mother of a current student posted on Facebook. “My daughter and her friends (mostly basketball friends) are in contact...she is crying and sharing the news...all the girls are having a hard time.” Some expressed hope that Queen of Peace’s “brother” school, the all-boys St. Laurence High School, situated next door at 5556 W. 77th St., would go co-educational and provide a haven for Peace students. In response, St. Laurence issued a statement of its own Tuesday night. It read, in part: “We plan to work with Queen of Peace’s leadership team in order to provide help in any way we can. During their first year of existence in 1962, we opened our doors to them as their building was under construction, and we intend to open our doors to them again during this time of transition if needed.”

Continued from Page 1

preparatory education for more than 15,000 young women over the past 55 years,” according to a statement from the school. The announcement came just 10 days after the death of Sr. Jeanne Flanagan, OP, the school’s founding principal and a woman long respected, admired and cherished by the Queen of Peace community. “This has been a most difficult and heart-breaking decision,” said Queen of Peace President Anne O’Malley, a 1975 alumna of the school. “The financial realities and declining enrollment over the past 10 years make it impossible to sustain a superior four-year academic experience for the bright and deserving young women of Chicago’s South Side. As a result, the Board of Directors, with approval of the Sponsor’s Council and

LIBRARY HAPPENINGS

LEGAL NOTICE

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

14 CH 15018 8852 W. 99TH STREET Palos Hills, IL 60465 NOTICE OF SALE PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above cause on November 16, 2016, an agent for The Judicial Sales Corporation, will at 10:30 AM on February 17, 2017, at The Judicial Sales Corporation, One South Wacker Drive - 24th Floor, CHICAGO, IL, 60606, sell at public auction to the highest bidder, as set forth below, the following described real estate: THE WEST 1/2 OF LOT 50 IN FRANK DE LUGACH’S RUTH ACRES SUBDIVISION, A SUBDIVISION OF THE SOUTH 1/2 OF THE SOUTH EAST 1/4 OF THE NORTHEAST 1/4 OF SECTION 10 AND THE SOUTH 1/2 OF THE SOUTHWEST 1/4 OF THE NORTHWEST 1/4 OF SECTION 11, TOWNSHIP 37 NORTH, RANGE 12, EAST OF THE THIRD PRINCIPAL MERIDIAN, IN COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS. Commonly known as 8852 W. 99TH STREET, Palos Hills, IL 60465 Property Index No. 23-10-205-024-0000. The real estate is improved with a single family residence. The judgment amount was $285,573.71. Sale terms: 25% down of the highest bid by certified funds at the close of the sale payable to The Judicial Sales Corporation. No third party checks will be accepted. The balance, including the Judicial sale fee for Abandoned Residential Property Municipality Relief Fund, which is calculated on residential real estate at the rate of $1 for each $1,000 or fraction thereof of the amount paid by the purchaser not to exceed $300, in certified funds/or wire transfer, is due within twenty-four (24) hours. No fee shall be paid by the mortgagee acquiring the residential real estate pursuant to its credit bid at the sale or by any mortgagee, judgment creditor, or other lienor acquiring the residential real estate whose rights in and to the residential real estate arose prior to the sale. The subject property is subject to general real estate taxes, special assessments, or special taxes levied against said real estate and is offered for sale without any representation as to quality or quantity of title and without recourse to Plaintiff and in AS IS condition. The sale is further subject to confirmation by the court. Upon payment in full of the amount bid, the purchaser will receive a Certificate of Sale that will entitle the purchaser to a deed to the real estate after confirmation of the sale. The property will NOT be open for inspection and plaintiff makes no representation as to the condition of the property. Prospective bidders are admonished to check the court file to verify all information. If this property is a condominium unit, the purchaser of the unit at the foreclosure sale, other than a mortgagee, shall pay the assessments and the legal fees required by The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/9(g)(1) and (g) (4). If this property is part of a common interest community, the purchaser of the unit at the foreclosure sale, other than a mortgagee, shall pay the assessments required by The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/18.5(g-1). IF YOU ARE THE MORTGAGOR (HOMEOWNER), YOU HAVE THE RIGHT TO REMAIN IN POSSESSION FOR 30 DAYS AFTER ENTRY OF AN ORDER OF POSSESSION, IN ACCORDANCE WITH SECTION 15-1701(C) OF THE ILLINOIS MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE LAW. You will need a photo identification issued by a government agency (driver’s license, passport, etc.) in order to gain entry into our building and the foreclosure sale room in Cook County and the same identification for sales held at other county venues where The Judicial Sales Corporation conducts foreclosure sales. For information, contact DAVID T. COHEN, DAVID T. COHEN & ASSOCIATES, 10729 WEST 159TH STREET, ORLAND PARK, IL 60467, (708) 460-7711 THE JUDICIAL SALES CORPORATION One South Wacker Drive, 24th Floor, Chicago, IL 60606-4650 (312) 236-SALE You can also visit The Judicial Sales Corporation at www.tjsc.com for a 7 day status report of pending sales. DAVID T. COHEN & ASSOCIATES 10729 WEST 159TH STREET ORLAND PARK, IL 60467 (708) 460-7711 Attorney Code. 25602 Case Number: 14 CH 15018 TJSC#: 36-13388 NOTE: Pursuant to the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, you are advised that Plaintiff s attorney is deemed to be a debt collector attempting to collect a debt and any information obtained will be used for that purpose.

CHICAGO RIDGE Kids make emoji pillows Emoji pillows sessions will be held from 6 to 7 p.m. Tuesdays, March 14 through April 11 at the Chicago Ridge Library, 10400 S. Oxford. Children ages 5 to 12 can come to the library and sew a two-sided emoji pillow. One side will be a smiley and the other will be heart eyes. All the supplies will be provided to make this a fun session for kids. The program is limited to 10 participants. Kids who take part are expected to attend all four sessions. More information can be obtained by calling the library, (708) 423-7753, or visit the website at www.chicagoridgelibrary.org.

Human tic-tac-toe Human tic-tac-toe will be held from 7 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, March 21 at the Chicago Ridge Library. The program is for children from grades six through 12. More information can be obtained by calling the library, (708) 423-7753, or visit the website at www.chicagoridgelibrary.org.

Jumbo Connect tourney The Jumbo Connect Tournament will be held from 7 to 8

LEGAL NOTICE F16110279 NSTR IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT, CHANCERY DIVISION Nationstar Mortgage LLC Plaintiff, vs. James R. Magnuson aka James Magnuson, Individually and as Trustee of the James R. Magnuson Revocable Trust dated March 28, 2007; Unknown Beneficiaries under the James R. Magnuson Revocable Trust dated March 28, 2007; TCF National Bank; Unknown Owners and Non-Record Claimants Defendants. CASE NO. 16 CH 16335 10037 Alice Court Oak Lawn, Illinois 60453 Walker Calendar 57 NOTICE FOR PUBLICATION The requisite affidavit for publication having been filed, notice is hereby given you, Unknown Beneficiaries under the James R. Magnuson Revocable Trust dated March 28, 2007, and UNKNOWN OWNERS and NON-RECORD CLAIMANTS, defendants in the above entitled cause, that suit has been commenced against you and other defendants in the Circuit Court for the Judicial Circuit by said plaintiff praying for the foreclosure of a certain mortgage conveying the premises described as follows, to wit: LOT 53 IN SECOND ADDITION TO C.A. PERSON’S SUBDIVISION, BEING A PART OF THE EAST THREE QUARTERS OF THE SOUTH WEST QUARTER OF SECTION 9, TOWNSHIP 37 NORTH, RANGE 13 EAST OF THE THIRD PRINCIPAL MERIDIAN IN COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS. P.I.N.: 24-09-320-035-0000 Said property is commonly known as 10037 Alice Court, Oak Lawn, Illinois 60453, and which said mortgage(s) was/were made by James R. Magnuson, as Trustee of the James R. Magnuson Revocable Trust dated March 28, 2007 and recorded in the Office of the Recorder of Deeds as Document Number 0722856153 and for other relief; that Summons was duly issued out of the above Court against you as provided by law and that said suit is now pending. NOW THEREFORE, unless you, the said above named defendants, file your answer to the complaint in the said suit or otherwise make your appearance therein, in the Office of the Clerk of the Court at Cook County on or before FEBRUARY 13, 2017 a default may be taken against you at any time after that date and a Judgment entered in accordance with the prayer of said complaint. This communication is an attempt to collect a debt and any information obtained will be used for that purpose. Steven C. Lindberg ANSELMO LINDBERG OLIVER LLC 1771 W. Diehl Rd., Ste 120 Naperville, IL 60563-4947 630-453-6960 | 866-402-8661 | 630-428-4620 (fax) Attorney No. Cook 58852, DuPage 293191, Kane 031-26104, Peoria 1794, Winnebago 3802, IL 03126232 foreclosure@ALOLawGroup.com THIS LAW FIRM IS DEEMED TO BE A DEBT COLLECTOR.

p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 28 at the Chicago Ridge Library. The program is for children from grades six through 12. Friends can join to take part in the tournament in an effort to become champion. More information can be obtained by calling the library, (708) 4237753, or visit the website at www. chicagoridgelibrary.org.

Youths can make bead crafts at library Children in grades six through 12 can take part in a program where they can make various designs from 7 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, March 14 at the Chicago Ridge Library. Participants can use beads and an iron to create a melted design. More information can be obtained by calling the library, (708) 423-7753, or visit the website at www.chicagoridgelibrary.org.

OAK LAWN Trip to see Frank Sinatra tribute show Friends of the Oak Lawn Library will sponsor a trip to see “My Way: A Musical Tribute to Frank Sinatra” on Thursday, March 16 at Theatre at Center in Munster, Ind. In-person registration will take place from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 11 at the Oak Lawn Library, 9427 S. Raymond Ave. A lunch will be served in the theater dining room prior to the performance. The bus will depart from the library at 11:15 a.m. and is scheduled to return at 5:30 p.m. The cost for the trip is $68 for members and $73 for nonmembers. Guests must present a current membership card or receipt to receive the $5 discount. A two ticket limit per person will be enforced. No refunds or exchanges will be given. After the in-person registration closes, contact Joanne Neff at the Oak Lawn Library, (708) 422-4990 to find out how to purchase tickets or get on a waiting list. The trips are not wheelchair accessible.

Children can read and win prizes “Once Upon a Snowy Day” will be presented on Tuesdays through Jan. 31 through the Youth Services Reading Program at the Oak Lawn Library, 9427 S. Raymond Ave. The program is open to babies, toddlers and children up to age 14, along with adult guardians. Depending on the ages of the children, they can read books, attend programs and complete activities to fill in the bingo squares and win prizes. Adults and participants can drop by the Youth Services Department to pick up a bingo card

SUDOKU Answers

or to receive some personalized reading recommendations. More information can be obtained by calling (708) 422-4990 or visit www.olpl.org.

Souper Bowl Food Drive The third annual Souper Bowl Food Drive will be held up until the Super Bowl on Sunday, Feb. 5 at the Oak Lawn Library, 9427 S. Raymond Ave. The library staff and volunteers will team up to stop hunger and help local pantries stock their shelves after the holidays. Residents are welcome to join in with the goal of collecting at least 500 donated items. A bin will be placed in the library lobby near a large poster that will track the progress of the drive. All donated items will be delivered to local pantries in February. Over the past two years, nearly 1,000 donated items have been distributed to three local food pantries. For more information about this, call (708) 422-4990 or visit www.olpl.org.

Conversation circle will be provided for new English speakers A conservation circle for new English speakers will take place from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Wednesdays through May 24 at the Oak Lawn Library. Participants and trained volunteers will work together in large and small groups. The winterspring session will be held in the Quiet Study Room on the second floor. Beginning, intermediate and advanced English learners are welcome (students must have some English training). The fall 2017 session will start up again in September. More information will be provided in upcoming newsletters. More information can be obtained by calling Mary Williams, the head of the adult and young adult services department, at (708) 422-4990, or visit www.olpl.org.

Accepting reading material donations Patrons can donate “gentlyused” books, magazines, CDs and videos to the Friends of the Oak Lawn Library Outgoing Book Sale at the Oak Lawn Library. Due to space limitations, the Friends will not accept Readers Digest Condensed Books, encyclopedias and older text books. The donation drop-off area is near the library’s Cook Avenue entrance. Interested parties may fill out a short form at the Customer Service desk to receive a tax letter by mail that acknowledges their donation. The Friends Ongoing Book Sale provides a variety of books, magazines and other forms of media at bargain prices. Hardcover books

CROSSWORD Answers

cost 50 cents each, paperbacks are 25 cents and magazines cost 10 cents each. Audio visual items are priced as indicated. Funds collected from the book sale support library programming and purchases that are beyond their regular budget.

Open mic readings for poets, short stories Local writers are invited to share their original poetry and short stories at 11 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 4 at the Oak Lawn Library. A five-minute time limit will be imposed for each reader. Light refreshments will be served. More information can be obtained by calling (708) 422-4990 or visit www.olpl.org.

Dancing Dino Party The Dancing Dino Party for all ages will be held at 2 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 5 at the Oak Lawn Library. Guests can boogie with Oak Lawn Library T-Rex. Along with dancing, guests will play games and make crafts. Registration is not required. Guests are also encouraged to bring their camera. More information can be obtained by calling (708) 422-4990 or visit www.olpl.org.

PALOS HILLS Bring tabletop games or play with new ones Tabletop gaming activities will be offered for children ages 8 and up from 3 to 5 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 1 at the Green Hills Library, 8611 W. 103rd St., Palos Hills. Participants can bring in their favorite game or try some new ones, like Sushi Go or Munchkin. Dice is not required. Register online at greenhillslibrary.org.

Ageless Grace program

A new brain fitness program called Ageless Grace will be introduced at 10 a.m. Friday, Feb. 3 at the Green Hills Library. Ageless Grace is a program that activates all five functions of the brain — analytical, strategic, kinesthetic learning, memory/recall, creativity and imagination. This program also simultaneously addresses all 21 physical skills needed for lifelong optimal function. The program is designed for adults of all ages and abilities. Registration is limited to 50. Register online at greenhillslibrary.org.

Ventriloquist to perform at Valentine’s Day Show Ventriloquist and illusionist Chris McBrien will perform for the whole family at 6 p.m. Monday, Feb. 6 at the Green Hills Library. The Merry Valentine’s Day Show will include Gracie the Ladybug, who has been writing special poems for her valentine. Other characters include Pavlov the Cat and Dewey Duck. Register online at greenhillslibrary.org.

Lego Club activities to be held at library The Lego Club will meet at 4 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 7 at the Green Hills Library. The program is for children in kindergarten through the fifth grade. The library staff will supply the Legos, and the participants will supply the imagination and building skills. Register online at greenhhillslibrary.org.

10 The Reporter

Thursday, January 26, 2017

SCHOOL NEWS Covington students trade donations for ‘Pajama Day’ Visitors to Covington School in Oak Lawn had to take a second look. Students were walking through the halls recently in their most comfortable pajamas on “Pajama Day.” This was done in an effort to get the younger students involved in the “Meals from the Heart Dinner” at the local Ronald McDonald House in Oak Lawn. Students at Covington are not old enough to participate in cooking for the March 13 event, so they decided to give in another way — and it paid off. “I think this project empowers students to be better citizens by making them more aware of local charities and their power to help others in their own communities,” said Olivia Taylor, a third-grade teacher at Covington. The PTO started a fundraiser for the event. If students brought in a donation to cover the cost of food, they were allowed to wear pajamas on a

Submitted photo

Students from Olivia Taylor’s third-grade class at Covington School in Oak Lawn take part in “Pajama Day.”

designated “fun day.” In all, Covington School donated $518 to the Ronald McDonald House, which will cover the cost of the

dinner plus a few items from the Ronald McDonald wish list like paper towels. “It was a wonderful cause and

Special Shadow Days planned at Chicago Christian Several special “Shadow Days” will be offered for any middle schools students at Chicago Christian High School, 12001 S. Oak Park Ave. Palos Heights. The first session will be a STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) Shadow Day on Thursday, Feb. 2. Students will visit engineering and bio medical classes, as well as hear from STEM teachers and students about their experiences. Chicago Christian will host an Athletic Shadow Day on Friday, Feb. 10, where students will be able to enjoy a pizza lunch with coaches and athletes.

The last session will be held Thursday, March 2 and will be the Fine Arts Shadow Day. Prospective students will be able to spend time visiting art classes, meeting with the theater department, and visiting music classes. Any middle school student interested in attending a shadow day, can register online at www. swchristian.org, or call Wilma at (708) 388-7656. Students can shadow Chicago Christian High School any day school is in session. The school is accepting applications for the 2017-18 school year.

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I am so proud of our contribution to Ronald McDonald House,” said Kelly Zimmerman, the Covington principal.

SW Chicago Christian will hold open house An open house for parents and their children will be held from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 7 at Southwest Chicago Christian School, 10110 S. Central Ave., Oak Lawn. A preschool informational meeting will be held at 6:30 p.m. A kindergarten informational meeting will be held at 7 p.m. Southwest Chicago provides a Christian-centered learning community. The school offers preschool classes, full- and half-day kindergarten, and before and after school care programs. Certified and experienced teachers are on hand. The school is accredited by the North Central Association and Christian Schools International. Southwest Chicago Christian owns and operates its own bus service. Southwest Chicago Christian offers certified STEM classes (science, technology, engineering and math) through Project Lead the Way (PLTW) Gateway program. More information can be obtained by calling Wilma Persenaire, (708) 388-7656. No appointment or preregistration is necessary for the open house.

McAuley hosts graduation and prom dress resale on Friday The Mother McAuley High School Mothers Club will hold its annual graduation and prom dress resale from 6 to 8 p.m. Friday, Jan. 27 at the school, 3737 W. 99th St., Chicago. The resale will also be held from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 28. The sale will feature a large selection of gently-worn prom gowns available for purchase. The sale takes place in the Annex Community Room. Shoppers may park in the main lot and enter through door 11, located next to the main theatre entrance. Cash or credit card payments will only be accepted. All sales are final. Following the prom resale, the Mother McAuley and Brother Rice High School mothers clubs will collaborate to donate any unsold dresses and gently worn young men’s dress clothing to support LYDIA Home, a faith-based organization providing a variety of services, including foster care, counseling and treatment, to assist troubled families and children. The donations of clothing will be delivered to LYDIA Home. More information, including seller information forms, can be found at www.mothermcauley.org.

Reading program features Dr. Seuss The Winter Reading Program called “Reading is Our Thing with Dr. Seuss” will be held through Saturday, March 4 at the Bridgeview Library, 7840 W. 79th St. Residents can register youths by stopping by the children’s department at the library. Participants can win prizes just for reading. More information on the Summer Reading Program entitled “Build a Better World” will also be offered. Details will be provided in the coming months. For additional information, call (708) 458-2880.

SPORTS The Regional News • The Reporter

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

Thursday, January 2017 Thursday, March 26, 5, 2015

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

Open fire for Shepard’s Noftz Senior changes hand position, becomes first bowling state qualifier for Astros By Jeff Vorva Sports Editor

Photos by Aaron FitzPatrick

Marist senior Tom Englehart (wearing No. 55, center) directs the Marist student section — dressed in a variety of sports jerseys — Friday at Benet.

Marist students create fan-demonium at Benet RedHawks boys and girls hoops squads sweep up vs. rivals

By Aaron FitzPatrick Correspondent

The Marist boys and girls basketball teams both wore their game faces Friday night — and fans in the Marist student section wore a wide variety of game jerseys — as the RedHawks swept league rival Benet on the road. The high-energy fans represented over 20 different teams from five sports while loudly representing their beloved RedHawks in the key East Suburban Catholic Conference league games in Lisle. The Marsit girls squad delivered a 64-45 victory over the two-time Class 4A champion Redwings, while the boys team followed suit with a 49-45 win over the hosts. Fans in the spirited Marist student section donned local staples such as Bulls, Blackhawks, Cubs and their own Marist jerseys. Some wore popular college jerseys such as Duke and Kentucky. And they even showed a bit of sports sophistication with some creative throwback jerseys, including a Kareem Abdul-Jabbar UCLA shirt.

Marist girls coach Mary Pat Connolly and players her rejoice over beating Benet in Lisle. Connolly said she could not remember the last time the RedHawks beat the Redwings in Lisle.

While Lew Alcindor would have been more accurate, the sentiment was solid. There was even a form-fitting Marist wrestling

jersey on display. “We’ve done a lot of things in the past. See MARIST, Page 3

By opening his hand position, Shepard’s Jordan Noftz opened the door to some history. The Astros’ senior became the first boys bowler in school history to qualify for the Illinois High School A s so ciat ion State TourSTATEMENT nament after qualifying as GAMES an individual Saturday at the Plainfield North Sectional at Town and Country Lanes in Joliet. Noftz was the only area individual to qualify, but local teams Sandburg and St. Laurence also qualified for the tournament, which begins Friday at St. Clair Bowl in O’Fallon. The Palos Heights resident rolled a 1,312 in six games, good for seventh overall and fourth among bowlers not affiliated with qualifying teams. Noftz said he missed a shot at state last year by approximately 40 pins but worked on adjusting several parts of his game — most notably his hand position. “I started with a closed hand position and I opened up my hand a little bit to swing the ball,” he said. “I did it myself during practice. “This (qualifying for state) is amazing. This is big.’’ Noftz opened the day on a huge note with a 259 and followed it up with a 202 and 210 to finish the first half with a 671. Lane conditions at Town and Country were tough, and high scores were not coming easily for the bowlers. Noftz was able to start the second session with a 230, but when he slipped to a 188 his chances of a state bid were in jeopardy. But he recovered to finish off with a 223 game and made the state field. His coach, Simeon Shama, noticed good things from Noftz three seasons ago. “He was moved up to varsity toward the end of the season

Photo by Jeff Vorva

Jordan Noftz shakes hands with a Plainfield North bowler after sectional action on Saturday. Noftz is the first Shepard bowler in school history to qualify for the IHSA state tournament.

ROLLING TO STATE Area boys bowling teams heading to Friday’s IHSA state tournament: Sandburg St. Laurence Individual: Jordan Noftz, Shepard

as a freshman and has been a starter ever since,” Shama said. “He started off this senior year slower than I expected but has really turning things up since conference, where he was the top individual bowler averaging 227 over six games. “We have had a lot of good bowlers come through our doors at Shepard, but Jordan has just really stepped up at the right time and found his rhythm, stayed composed under pressure, remained confident and made great decisions in adjusting to the lanes. He works hard at his craft and takes the sport very seriously.’’ Noftz’s performance was a ray of positive light on a day in which area South Suburban Conference teams were disappointed. Richards, which won the Brooks Regional on Jan. 14, finished 15th in the 16-team sectional. Brooks Regional individual champion Shaun Quinn, of Evergreen Park, who was the top area state finisher at 15th in 2016, missed the cut by 11 pins. See BOWLING, Page 2

BR baseball, McAuley volleyball making big offseason news W hat month is this? Oh, yeah, it’s January. What high school season

is this? Oh yeah, it’s basketball, wrestling, boys swimming, bowling, girls gymnastics, competitive dance and cheerleading seasons. I almost forgot, thanks to those schools next to each other in Chicago — Brother and Mother JEFF VORVA Rice McAuley. Making the They have me Extra Point all messed up. These two schools have been making big news in non-winter sports, with Rice’s baseball team receiving a historic bid to a national tournament and McAuley still basking in its state and national volleyball championships. First off, Brother Rice accepted a bid to play in the sixth USA Baseball National High School Tournament

Photo by Jeff Vorva

Brother Rice baseball players had some fun after a game last spring and hope to have a few more laughs and smiles in late March, when they play in the USA Baseball National High School Tournament.

March 29-April 1 at the USA Baseball National Training Complex in Cary, North Carolina.

Your Bank Dropping Its Standards?

This is the first time a team from Illinois will compete. This will be the first time any team

Photo by Jeff Vorva

Mother McAuley volleyball players received adulation in November when they hoisted the trophy in front of their fans after they won the IHSA Class 4A state title but the honors and tributes are still rolling in.

from the Midwest will compete. USA Baseball Executive Directors and CEO Paul Seiler boasted that

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Section 2 January 26, 2017

The Regional News - The Reporter

FOCUS ON THE CHICAGO FIRE

First impression: ‘Niko’ could be Fire’s next big star By Jeff Vorva

didn’t know anyone was going to be there. It was 10 p.m. I had travelled almost 10 hours. Then I saw the fans. That made me happy. The expectations here are high. I will do my best to try to make them happy.’’ Fire General Manager Nelson Rodriguez said that those fans who don’t know of Nikolic will soon love his approach to the game. “It was unexpected that people showed up at the airport,” Rodriguez said. “But the fans were resourceful how they got his flight information and waited into the evening until he arrived. “I think he’s a player our fans are going to love. If anyone followed his career at Legia, he became idolized by the fans there. He gives it all for his team. He produces. I was happy for him because we had spoken to him about the warm character of the people of the Midwest and of the city of Chicago, so that was nice that he got to experience it firsthand on his arrival.’’ The 29-year-old Nikolic came to the Fire via transfer from Legia, Warsaw and signed as a Designated Player on Dec. 20. Nikolic led the Ekstraklasa with 12

Sports Editor

“NI-KO!” Clap, clap, clap. “NI-KO!” Clap, clap, clap. That was the scene Friday night at O’Hare International Airport as dozens of soccer fans cheered and applauded when Serbian forward Nemanja Nikolic disembarked his plane to start his career as a member of the Chicago Fire. Fans took photos of him and with him. They presented him with a Fire scarf. They shared a few laughs with him. OK, it’s not like the Cubs mob scene returning to town after winning the World Series or anything like that, but it could be the beginning of something big. The Fire organization doesn’t have a player that is highly recognizable in the Chicago area, so having this guy come off a plane and get the rock star treatment from the fans is a good sign. “It was a fantastic feeling,” Nikolic said Monday at the team’s PrivateBank Fire Pitch to open preseason camp. “I

Photo by Jeff Vorva

Nemanja Nikolic poses with a soccer ball at the Chicago Fire’s PrivateBank pitch on Monday.

goals through the first half of their season in 2016. He added two assists in

19 matches and left with six goals in his final three regular-season matches, including a hat trick against Gornik Leczna two days before inking his deal with the Fire. In 2015-16, he led the Ekstraklasa with 28 goals and was third in assists with 10. He was named the league’s Player of the Year and Forward of the Year. Nikolic opened the season on a tear with five goals in the club’s first three games. He had 15 goals through the team’s first 12 games, and recorded seven multi-goal games during the campaign. He helped lead Legia Warsaw to its 11th league title in club history. In 2014-15, he led the Hungarian first division with 21 goals in 25 games. So the man knows how to put the ball in the net and he comes to Chicago wanting to continue that tradition. “I was told this team was not successful last year (the team finished a Major League Soccer-worst 7-14-13) and the future is the most important thing,” Nikolic said. “I hope I will score many goals here. To score goals, you need to work really, really hard and believe in yourself. Sometimes you have good moments and

FOCUS ON HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS

SXU softball team ranked 2nd in nation; No. 3 women’s basketball team stunned By Jeff Vorva Sports Editor

Sports Editor

Postseason wrestling begins on Feb. 4 and many area wrestlers had their final big test before regionals begin on Saturday during conference meets. The area produced seven conference wrestling champs in the Catholic League, South Suburban and SouthWest Suburban meets. In the SouthWest Suburban meet at Stagg, the hosts produced two champions — Domenec Zaccone at 113 and Ahmad Suleiman at 152. Sandburg, which finished second to powerhouse Lockport in the conference meet, produced two champs, with Patrick Brucki (195) and Cole Batemen (220) taking titles. In the South Suburban meet at Shepard, Richards’ Eyhab Hamden (160) and Shepard’s Robert Muhammad took first place in their weight classes. Shepard took second to Oak Forest in the team battle. In the Chicago Catholic League meet at De La Salle High School, Brother Rice’s Scott Sierzega claimed first in the 220-pound division.

Photo by Jason Maholy

Stagg’s Domenec Zaccone (top) was one of a handful of area wrestlers to win conference titles as he won the 113-pound weight class in the SouthWest Suburban. From left, Walter Ottenhoff, Emily Ottenhoff, Michael Kamp, Susan Kamp, and Jim Kamp pose during the Chicago Christian Wall of Fame ceremonies on Saturday.

Wall of Fame Chicago Christian High School held its seventh annual Wall of Honor ceremony, and this year’s inductees were Emily Ottenhoff (Class of 2006) and Michael Kamp (2012). Ottenhoff was an all-state basketball and soccer player during her time at Chicago Christian and is the school’s second leading scorer in basketball with 1,224 career points. Kamp was an all-state baseball selection during his time at the school and also starred on the basketball court, where he is 11th on the school’s all-time scoring list with 1,012 career points. The evening included a reception and dinner followed by the ceremony before the varsity boys basketball contest.

Supplied photo

College commitments • Shepard kicker Mike Iturbe signed to play football at St. Xavier University. • Marist’s Tom O’Mara verbally committed to Western Illinois University for football. • Brother Rice’s Joey Bettinardi of Palos Heights signed a letter of intent to play golf at St. Ambrose University. He was named Golfer of the Year at the Cog Hill Summer Tour in 2016. • St. Ambrose has taken 20 team to the NAIA Men’s National Tournament in the past 26 seasons. The school will host the

nationals in 2017 and 2018. • Oak Lawn had a pair of recent verbal commitment announcement as football player Jabari Clark verbally committed to Carthage while basketball player Rashad Johnson committed to Aurora University.

In the pool Sandburg’s Aidan Farley made himself at home in Frankfort last week as the senior set the Lincoln-Way East pool record with a 200 IM time of 1 minute, 56.96 seconds.

FOCUS ON COMMUNITY SPORTS

South Side Shooters will hold tryouts on Feb. 23 The South Side Shooters spring boys basketball tryouts are from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. Feb. 23 for fifth and sixth graders and 6:30 -7:30 p.m. Feb. 23 for seventh and eighth graders. The tryouts take place at the Moraine Valley Community College G Gymnasium at 11100 S. 88th Ave., Palos Hills. For more information, contact Bill Finn

the country and will embark in “truly a one-of-a-kind competitive and developmental experience for these players and programs.” Each team is guaranteed four games. The Crusaders will have a roster of players who are no strangers to travelling, as many of them have played all over the country on their travel teams. The Crusaders had a 35-4 mark last spring and were upset in sectional play by St. Laurence. In the summer they finished second in the Lawler Summer Tournament, which features a healthy amount of quality Chicago area teams. Ryan Kutt (who committed to Illinois), Ryan King (Michigan State),

In the second day of the MLS SuperDraft last week, the Fire selected University of North Carolina Charlotte duo of Brandt Bronico (47th overall) and Matej Dekovic (69th). Bronico, a midfielder, appeared in 74 collegiate games for the 49ers, scoring 25 goals and adding 23 assists. A Conference USA Player of the Year and Golden Boot Winner in 2016, the High Point, NC native led the conference in assist in 2015 with 10, the fifth-highest single-season total in program history. A defender hailing from Zagreb, Croatia, Dekovic appeared in 57 games for the 49ers over the course of three seasons, scoring five goals and adding eight assists. A Conference USA All-Freshman Team honoree in 2014, Dekovic garnered NSCAA First Team All-Southeast Region, First Team AllConference USA and NCCSIA First Team All-State accolades in 2016.

Life near the top of the rankings is mixed

By Jeff Vorva

Continued from Page 1

Fire selects two more in SuperDraft

FOCUS ON AREA COLLEGES

Wrestlers get ready for the postseason with conference wins

Vorva

sometimes you have bad moments. But you need to score because it is your job. “I want to score goals here and I will work really hard to achieve that.’’

at 708-508-0170 or visit http://southsideshootersbasketball.com.

PBO Registration There is still time to register for the 2017 Palos Baseball Organization season. To register in person, the 600-plus player PBO will have representatives available from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday

Jack Guzek (Indiana State), Sam Jones (Indiana) and Jake Ridgway (Indiana State) are big-time players for the Crusders, and an army of younger players will be getting huge experience and exposure in this competition. Weather permitting, the Crusaders will have a few cold warmup games against Whitney Young on March 16, hosting Morgan Park on March 17, at Plainfield North on March 18, at Lyons Township on March 20 and at St. Xavier High School (Kentucky) on March 25. As for McAuley volleyball, the attaboys just keep coming. PrepVolley.com, USA Today/AVCA and MaxPreps named the Macs national champions in December, and the honors keep rolling in. What honor did junior hitter Charley Niego win since last week’s deadline for our paper?

at the Palos Heights Recreation Center at 6601 W. 127th Street, in Palos Heights. For more information, visit the PBO website www.palosbaseball.org for more details on the registration and the program. — We welcome community sports news at sports@regionalpublishing.com

Oh, she just won the Illinois Gatorade Player of the Year. Think about this: In all the years McAuley has been great in volleyball, this is the first time a Mighty Mac won the Gatorade award. Niego also was a third-team member of the USA Today High School Sports national team. The team was honored with a resolution at a Cook County Board of Commissioners meeting last week. There might be a few more honors and national championship banner ceremonies in store, and don’t discount the possibility of seeing these players throwing out a first pitch or singing during the seventh-inning stretch of a Cubs game. These are exciting times for the two schools. Now let me check the calendar again…

Despite losing one the best pitchers in NAIA history, St. Xavier University’s softball team picked up the No. 2 ranking in the nation according to the coaches’ preseason poll. The Cougars finished a programbest second in the nation last year. Graduated pitcher Nicole Nonnemacher was named the NAIA National Player of the Year after going 31-6 on the mound with a 1.00 ERA and 455 strikeout in 266 1/3 innings of work. She also hit .367 with 40 RBI. Making up for Nonnemacher will be tough, but first- year coach Erin (Mollohan) Corrao is looking forward to the challenge. “It is a thrill to be ranked No. 2 in the nation, but our team is completely aware that this is a new season and we are going to have to work hard to earn it,” said Corrao. “(The coaches) are excited about the opportunity to coach such a talented team. I can’t wait for March and the chance to get our team out on the field again.” Corrao is in her fifth season with the team and takes over as boss after the retirement of Myra Minuskin, who coached for 16 seasons and won more than 600 games. SXU begins its 2017 season in Florida to take part in the PFX Spring Games in Clermont, Fla., in March. SXU opens its season locally on Saturday, March 18, with a 1 p.m. home doubleheader against Aquinas College (Mich.) at SXU Softball Field in Chicago.

Women’s basketball: The Cougars, ranked third in the country, dropped a 69-68 road loss to No. 19 Cardinal Stritch on Jan. 18 for its second loss of the year. It didn’t bother the players too long as they took their frustrations out on Olivet Nazarene with a 115-91 triumph at home on Saturday. The Cougars (19-2 overall, 11-2 in the Chicagoland Collegiate Athletic Conference) led 70-36 at halftime. Kara Krolicki led the team with 29 points, while Brittany Collins had 24 and Mikayla Leyden 20. Men’s basketball: The Cougars fell to 10-12 overall and 7-7 in the CCAC with an 83-79 loss to Olivet in Chicago on Saturday. Jared Jones led SXU with 20 points, including six 3-pointers. Football: Junior right tackle Justin Hunter (Crest Hill/Joliet Catholic) was

Bowling

Continued from Page 1 He was one of just four bowlers to post a 700-plus series in the first round with a 710. But he rolled a 546 in the final three games to ruin his chances to return to state. Sandburg, which finished sixth in state last year, was in danger of missing the six-team cut but rallied with a 941 and 975 in the final two games to finish fifth with a 5,917. “It was a real grinder out there today and we weren’t carrying,” Sandburg coach Jeff Kwilose said. “It could have gone either way. It’s survive and advance. We did well with that shot downstate. Last year we took sixth, and four of the five guys were on that squad.’’ It’s the third year in a row the Eagles made it downstate and fifth time in school history.

named to the 2016 Victory Sports Network NAIA Football All-American First Team. Hunter helped the Cougars average 33 points and 394.5 yards of total offense a game this past season. He also earned a spot on the 2016 AFCANAIA All-America First Team, as well as the 2016 Mid-States Football Association (MSFA) All-Midwest League First Team and MSFA All-Academic Team. Men’s volleyball: SXU opened the season 1-1 by beating Illinois Tech, 2520, 25-14, 25-16, in the season opener on Thursday and falling to Siena Heights, 25-14, 23-25, 25-17, 25-22, on Saturday. Thomas Matonis had six kills in the victory. Sean Barry had 17 kills Saturday. Setter Aaron Kummer had 36 assists in the loss and was also in on four block assists.

MORAINE VALLEY

Women’s basketball: The Cyclones, who are ranked 15th in the nation, dropped an 83-74 decision to No. 5 Kankakee on Saturday. “They (Kankakee) are not better, but their intensity level beat our talent,” Cyclones coach Delwyn Jones said. Michelle Borgen had 24 points and nine rebounds and became the school’s all-time leading scorer with 1,051 points. The Cyclones beat Elgin Community College, 82-43, at home Thursday as Erin Drynan scored 20 points, including 10 in the first quarter. Men’s basketball: Moraine beat Elgin Community College, which was ranked ninth in the country, 96-82 on Thursday. Tommy Demogerontas scored 26 points and had eight rebounds, four assists and two blocks, while Nick Sims added 17 points. It was the team’s ninth straight win.

TRINITY CHRISTIAN

Track: Both the men’s and women’s teams opened the season at the Keith Turner Alumni Open at Trine University in Angola University and the Trolls’ milers shined on Saturday. For the women, Ashley Jourdan took second in 5 minutes, 19.33 seconds, followed by teammate Megen DeWeed with a 5:26.54. For the men, Cody Velthhuizen took second with a 4:36.30 and Brantley VanOverloop was fifth with a 4:42.96. Women’s basketball: The Trolls knocked off St. Ambrose, 84-75, Saturday in Davenport, Iowa, as Celina Wanta scored 21 points. Men’s basketball: A 23-point first half helped cost the Trolls in a 66-63 loss to St. Ambrose Saturday. Myles Birgans led the Trolls with 16 points.

Brandon Goeringer led the team with a 1,250 while defending sectional champ Cameron Crowe had 1,228, Tommy Hayes had 1,172, Alex Zylo fired a 1,151 and AJ Svatos had a 1,126. “Last year, state was nerve-wracking, I’m not going to lie,” Crowe said. “We had a lot of expectations last year and this year we will come in more prepared.’’ St. Laurence also needed a strong finish and took fourth in the Glenbard East Sectional at the Brunswick Zone in Glendale Heights with a 5,745. Senior Tyler Balandes led the Vikings with a 1,288 followed by Tom Doyle (1,181) Ryan Sanfratello (1,144) and Brendan Collins (1,091). Freshman Jonathon Skalon rolled a 546 for three games, Tyree Colbert rolled a 336 in two games and Ramon Flores shot a 159 in one game. It’s the Vikings fourth state appearance and second in three years.

The Regional News - The Reporter

Thursday, January 26, 2017 Section 2

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

Oak Lawn’s Cecilia Vega (right) and her teammates have clashes at home with Richards on Friday and Shepard on Tuesday. Photo by Jeff Vorva

W-L STREAK NEXT

17-3 13-7 12-8 20-1 6-13 9-7 8-11 10-7 6-9 13-6

W6 W3 W1 W1 L2 W3 W3 L1 L1 W2

hosts St. Laurence, Tues. next game Feb. 3 at Shepard, Fri.; Fulton Shootout, Sat. at Joliet Catholic Academy, Fri. hosts West Chicago, Sat.; hosts Fenton, Tues. hosts Argo, Fri.; at Bloom, Sat. hosts Leo, Fri.; at Brother Rice, Tues. hosts Bolingbrook; at LWW Warrior Showdown, Sat.; hosts PF South, Tues. hosts Evergreen Park, Fri.; hosts Universal School, Tues. hosts Homewood-Flossmoor, Fri.

* Records through Sunday, Jan. 22; compiled by Jeff Vorva.

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

W-L

STREAK

15-7 16-6 21-4 16-6 12-13 22-1 12-7 9-14 9-14 10-11

L1 W2 L1 W4 L2 W7 W2 L4 W1 W1

at Walther Christian, Thurs.; at Ridgewood, Fri.; hosts Elmwood Park, Tues. hosts Argo, Thurs.; at Eisenhower Tues. hosts Joliet Catholic Academy, Wed. at GCAC Tournament, Sat. through Feb. 4. hosts Richards, Fri.; hosts Shepard, Tues. hosts Kennedy, Thurs.; at GCAC Tournament, Sat. through Feb. 4. at Oak Lawn, Fri.; vs. Lockport at United Center, Sun. at Lincoln-Way East, Thurs.; hosts Lockport, Tues. at Reavis, Thurs.; at Oak Lawn, Tues. at Bolingbrook, Thurs.; hosts Lincoln-Way East, Tues.

* Records through Sunday, Jan. 22; compiled by Randy Whalen.

FOCUS ON HIGH SCHOOL BASKETBALL

Drynan holds it up high in win over Oak Lawn By Phil Arvia Correspondent

For all the gaudy numbers Mike Drynan put up Friday — 18 points on 9-of-11 shooting, 11 rebounds, six blocks — the Evergreen Park big man’s most impressive stat may have been this: One dribble. In a 78-59, South Suburban Red win over Oak Lawn, the 6-foot-9 senior put the ball on the floor exactly once — the sign of a player who knows what he can and cannot do. “Well, he does now,” Mustangs coach Pat Flannigan said. “For a while, he was trying to get a little too cute. Every day in practice we tell him, ‘Hold it up high, top right square.’” While Drynan didn’t often opt for a bank shot off the top right corner of the square on the backboard, he managed to catch and hold the ball above his head most of the night — especially while hitting his first six shots as the Mustangs rebounded from an early 6-0 deficit to lead by as many as 20 points in the second quarter. “At the beginning of the year, I wanted to dribble a lot,” Drynan said. “But coach kept

telling me, ‘don’t.’ “My shot works. I basically have a primary move and a secondary move depending on what the defense does — which doesn’t really matter because I’m 6-9. My teammates are giving me the ball where I can catch it and no one else can.” Drynan wasn’t the only Mustang to follow his coach’s directions to a big night. Kyree Hannah had 20 points, making 6-of-9 3-point shots one day after missing most of practice with a sprained thumb then missing his first two field goal attempts Friday. “I took him out for missing a bad floater early — that’s not his game,” Flannigan said. “When he was on the bench, my assistant coach told him if he was able to play, he should take the wrap off his thumb. He took the tape off and he made four in a row.” Hannah also made all three of his 3-point attempts in the third quarter, when Evergreen Park (12-7, 3-4) pushed its advantage to as many as 32 points. “My coach tells me, ‘have your footwork right, focus on the rings,’” Hannah said. “I have pretty good rotation on the

Marist

Continued from Page 1 We figured a ‘Jersey Theme Night,’ where you just rep whatever your favorite team or sport is. Just something simple,” said Marist senior Tom Englehart. “It’s not too hard to pick out your favorite jersey, wear it to a game and cheer on the (teams).” Englehart led the raucous bunch in a variety of chants and cheers throughout the night and even led the gang in some halftime stretches to stay loose for the rest of the night. “We’ve got a repertoire of different cheers to go with, so we’ve always got something cooking,” Englehart explained. The RedHawks had plenty of whatever Englehart and the Marist students were cooking up. The girls game gave coach Mary Pat Connolly a rare road win against the two-time defending state champs. Abby Callahan scored 17 points for Marist and Julia Ruzevich added 13. “We haven’t had a win against Benet in maybe four years and we haven’t had a win here in I don’t know how many — and I’ve been here for all 15 of them,” Connolly said. The win kept Marist at the top of the ESCC with a 4-0 record, and after a tough 55-54 loss to North Lawndale at the Kenwood Shootout, the RedHawks entered this week’s action with a 21-4 overall mark. “We played really, really well,” Connolly said after the Benet win. “We stepped up our defense to another level. Everybody that was on the floor made key shots. We shot well. We had balanced scoring. I couldn’t be more proud of these girls. From beginning to end, I thought we fought really really hard.” The student section needed to cook up something with a little more spice for the boys game, and the RedHawks needed every bit of it in their tight win in the nightcap. The RedHawks were coming off their first loss of the season after 19 straight wins three days prior — an overtime setback at

ball, and I shoot it high. “My coach wants me to shoot at will. Well, not at will — but when I’m open.” Which was far too often for Spartans coach Jason Rhodes. “We didn’t guard the ball, we didn’t play much of anything we worked on all week in practice, defensively,” he said. “They’re getting layups and open 3s, and we’re taking bad shots early in possessions. “Evergreen Park is very quick and athletic. They’ve got good ball-handling. And Hannah was great for them tonight.” Oak Lawn (6-12, 2-6) was led by Rashad Johnson’s 14 points. Adem Osmani added 13, with a team-high nine rebounds. Another bright spot was freshman guard Trey Ward, who hit a pair of third-quarter 3-pointers in just his second varsity contest. “He was a little shaky early,” Rhodes said. “But he adjust very quickly to the pace of the game.” Christian Cotton added 12 points for Evergreen Park.

GCAC Tournament pairings set The Girls Catholic Athletic Conference opens play on Saturday, and second-seeded Mother McAuley faces 15th-seeded De La Salle at 5 p.m. at McAuley. Seventh-seeded Queen of Peace faces 10th-seeded Providence Catholic at 3:30 p.m. at McAuley. The tournament continues Tuesday, Feb. 2 and Feb. 4.

McAuley will host all games on the final day, with the Red and White championships taking place at 7:15 p.m.

OT again for Rice Three days after Brother Rice’s thrilling 73-65 victory over Marist, the Crusaders had another tight fight on their hands as they beat Bishop McNamara, 64-61 in OT in Kankakee. Josh Niego’s 29 points led the Crusaders, who stayed unbeaten in the Chicago Catholic League South with a 5-0 mark.

Another milestone The area has had a healthy share of coaching and player milestones this season, and Mother McAuley’s Tara O’Malley joined the club as she scored her 1,000th career point in a 60-56 win over Bogan Saturday at the Kenwood Shootout.

Alums ready for Leo-St. Laurence tilt The Red Palm Bar and Grill in Evergreen Park is hosting free round-trip transportation to the Leo-St. Laurence game in Burbank on Friday night Photo by Jeff Vorva and free pizza after the game Mike Drynan (left) and Tyler Weathersby of Evergreen Park talk during a for alumni of both schools. The break in a game earlier this season. Drynan had 18 points, 11 rebounds shuttle service begins at 6:15 for and six blocks against Oak Lawn on Friday night. the 7 p.m. game and the recepteam’s leading scorer, hit 91 out tion begins at 9:30 p.m. at 3020 Free throw wizards W. 95th St. in Evergreen Park. For those basketball purists of 100 free throws. Freshman “It’s a great way to support who have a distaste for players Micah Schnyders was second, two up-and-coming programs,” who don’t hit their free throws, as he canned 90 out of 100. EP Mayor Jim Sexton said. check out a recent shoot-a-thon “Catholic League basketball is a Chicago Christian held. — Sports editor Jeff Vorva great way to spend an evening.’’ contributed to this report. Senior Malik Parker, the

Photo by Aaron FitzPatrick

Marist’s Justin Brown lays in two points against Benet.

Brother Rice. RedHawks fans were eager to see how the team would respond with another tough road game. “It was a great win to get back on our feet,” said RedHawks guard Morgan Taylor. “Some guys were a little down after that (Brother Rice) game, but we had to come to practice, work hard and really focus on this one.” Taylor said practices leading up to the Benet game were at first sluggish but the players quickly got the cobwebs out of their heads to focus on the Redwings. After Marist led by as much as nine points, Benet cut the lead to two with 40 seconds left. It was time for a gut check and the RedHawks responded. Taylor made four of six free-throw attempts down the stretch, including a big one with 17 seconds left to keep Marist’s advantage at four points. “We just had to stay confident,” said Taylor. “We just had to play our game and keep up with ourselves.” Maurice Commander led the RedHawks with 14 points. After Friday night, Marist, St. Patrick and St. Viator were on top of the ESCC with 4-0 marks. For those looking ahead, Marist will host St. Viator on Feb. 10 and St. Patrick on Feb. 17.

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Section 2 Thursday, January 26, 2017

The Regional News - The Reporter

Images from a rivalry game that’s tough to rival By Jeff Vorva Sports Editor

Brother Rice and Marist have played each other 29 times in boys basketball and even though this is a big-time rivalry, there have been a majority of wide-margin victories.

Brother Rice’s Josh Boulanger leaps to make a defensive play in his team’s rivalry game against Marist.

Seventeen games have been decided by 10 or more points and five of those were decided by 20 or more. Was Brother Rice’s 73-65 overtime home victory over Marist on Jan. 17 the best of the 29? On paper, Marist’s 68-67 overtime win in 1993 Brother Rice’s 64-62 OT win in 1994 sound like

they were pretty exciting contests as well. But this season’s game had the added aura of being played on live TV in the Chicago area and both teams came into the contest with a combined 34-3 mark with Marist posting a 19-0 mark and mastered the art of late-game comebacks. But this time it was Brother Rice that needed

Marist’s Justin Brown, left, picks up a tough inside basket with Brother Rice’s Vito Calace defending him.

Brother Rice fans, and some imitation cops, have fun during an OT win over Marist on Jan. 17.

a comeback and senior Mike Shepski drained a 3-pointer in the closing seconds of regulation to send the game into the extra four-minute period. Josh Niego then took over, scoring 10 OT points and Josh Boulanger adding three. Brother Rice has a 15-14 edge in the series. Here are some photos from the battle:

Brother Rice’s Josh Niego tries to get by Marist’s David Daniels in the annual neighborhood rivalry game.

Brother Rice’s Josh Niego hugs Mike Shepski (No. 5) after the Crusaders’ overtime win over Marist on Jan. 17. The pair combined to score 55 of Rice’s 73 points.

Brother Rice players mob each other after the win over Marist while the RedHawks’ Bobby Hawkinson (right, in dark uniform) makes his escape.

Photos by Jeff Vorva

Marist guard Maurice Commander tries to slow things down in the neighborhood rivalry game with Brother Rice.

The Regional News - The Reporter

For Sale IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT - CHANCERY DIVISION THE BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON FKA THE BANK OF NEW YORK AS TRUSTEE FOR THE CERTIFICATEHOLDERS OF CWALT, INC., ALTERNATIVE LOAN TRUST 2004-14T2, MORTGAGE PASS-THROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2004-14T2 Plaintiff, -v.JOHN P. SINIAWSKI AKA JOHN SINIAWSKI, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA-DEPARTMENT OF THE TREASURY-INTERNAL REVENUE SERVICE, ARROW FINANCIAL SERVICES LLC, SPRINGLEAF FINANCIAL SERVICES OF ILLINOIS, INC. FKA AMERICAN GENERAL FINANCIAL SERVICES OF ILLINOIS, INC., ARROW FINANCIAL SERVICES AS ASSIGNEE OF HOUSEHOLD BANK, MIDLAND FUNDING LLC, RESURGENCE FINANCIAL, LLC D/B/A RESURGENCE FINANCIAL OF DELAWARE, LLC, DISCOVER BANK, STATE OF ILLINOIS-DEPARTMENT OF REVENUE Defendants 15 CH 05689 10780 Palos West Drive 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 December 1, 2016, an agent for The Judicial Sales Corporation, will at 10:30 AM on March 2, 2017, at The Judicial Sales Corporation, One South Wacker Drive - 24th Floor, CHICAGO, IL, 60606, sell at public auction to the highest bidder, as set forth below, the following described real estate: Commonly known as 10780 Palos West Drive, Palos Park, IL 60464 Property Index No. 23-29-403-051-0000. The real estate is improved with a single family residence. The judgment amount was $510,513.99. Sale terms: 25% down of the highest bid by certified funds at the close of the sale payable to The Judicial Sales Corporation. No third party checks will be accepted. The balance, including the Judicial sale fee for Abandoned Residential Property Municipality Relief Fund, which is calculated on residential real estate at the rate of $1 for each $1,000 or fraction thereof of the amount paid by the purchaser not to exceed $300, in certified funds/or wire transfer, is due within twenty-four (24) hours. No fee shall be paid by the mortgagee acquiring the residential real estate pursuant to its credit bid at the sale or by any mortgagee, judgment creditor, or other lienor acquiring the residential real estate whose rights in and to the residential real estate arose prior to the sale. The subject property is subject to general real estate taxes, special assessments, or special taxes levied against said real estate and is offered for sale without any representation as to quality or quantity of title and without recourse to Plaintiff and in \â&#x20AC;?AS IS\â&#x20AC;? condition. The sale is further subject to confirmation by the court. Upon payment in full of the amount bid, the purchaser will receive a Certificate of Sale that will entitle the purchaser to a deed to the real estate after confirmation of the sale. Where a sale of real estate is made to satisfy a lien prior to that of the United States, the United States shall have one year from the date of sale within which to redeem, except that with respect to a lien arising under the internal revenue laws the period shall be 120 days or the period allowable for redemption under State law, whichever is longer, and in any case in which, under the provisions of section 505 of the Housing Act of 1950, as amended (12 U.S.C. 1701k), and subsection (d) of section 3720 of title 38 of the United States Code, the right to redeem does not arise, there shall be no right of redemption. The property will NOT be open for inspection and plaintiff makes no representation as to the condition of the property. Prospective bidders are admonished to check the court file to verify all information. If this property is a condominium unit, the purchaser of the unit at the foreclosure sale, other than a mortgagee, shall pay the assessments and the legal fees required by The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/9(g)(1) and (g)(4). If this property is a condominium unit which is part of a common interest community, the purchaser of the unit at the foreclosure sale other than a mortgagee shall pay the assessments required by The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/18.5(g-1). IF YOU ARE THE MORTGAGOR (HOMEOWNER), YOU HAVE THE RIGHT TO REMAIN IN POSSESSION FOR 30 DAYS AFTER ENTRY OF AN ORDER OF POSSESSION, IN ACCORDANCE WITH SECTION 15-1701(C) OF THE ILLINOIS MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE LAW. You will need a photo identification issued by a government agency (driverâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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 Plaintiffâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s attorney: HEAVNER, BEYERS & MIHLAR, LLC, 111 East Main Street, DECATUR, IL 62523, (217) 422-1719 If the sale is not confirmed for any reason, the Purchaser at the sale shall be entitled only to a return of the purchase price paid. The Purchaser shall have no further recourse against the Mortgagor, the Mortgagee or the Mortgageeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s attorney. THE JUDICIAL SALES CORPORATION One South Wacker Drive, 24th Floor, Chicago, IL 60606-4650 (312) 236-SALE You can also visit The Judicial Sales Corporation at www.tjsc.com for a 7 day status report of pending sales. HEAVNER, BEYERS & MIHLAR, LLC 111 East Main Street DECATUR, IL 62523 (217) 422-1719 Fax #: (217) 422-1754 CookPleadings@hsbattys.com Attorney Code. 40387 Case Number: 15 CH 05689 TJSC#: 36-13930 NOTE: Pursuant to the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, you are advised that Plaintiffâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s attorney is deemed to be a debt collector attempting to collect a debt and any information obtained will be used for that purpose. I711991

For Sale IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT - CHANCERY DIVISION JPMORGAN CHASE BANK, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION Plaintiff, vs. JOSE LUIS MAGANA, III; PALOS VILLAGE CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION, INC. Defendants, 15 CH 9411 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, March 1, 2017 at the hour of 11 a.m. in their office at 120 West Madison Street, Suite 718A, Chicago, Illinois, sell at public auction to the highest bidder for cash, as set forth below, the following described mortgaged real estate: P.I.N. 23-13-102-041-1018. Commonly known as 10409 Sheffield Drive, Unit 2N, Palos Hills, IL 60465. 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 Plaintiffâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Attorney, Manley Deas Kochalski, LLC, One East Wacker Drive, Chicago, Illinois 60601. (614) 220-5611. 16-007837 F2 INTERCOUNTY JUDICIAL SALES CORPORATION Selling Officer, (312) 444-1122 I713070

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CALL 815-450-0004 For Sale IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT - CHANCERY DIVISION QUICKEN LOANS, INC Plaintiff, -v.DENNIS M. HENNESSEY, JENNIFER A. HENNESSEY Defendants 16 CH 08463 9001 SHADY Hickory Hills, IL 60457 NOTICE OF SALE PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above cause on September 19, 2016, an agent for The Judicial Sales Corporation, will at 10:30 AM on February 21, 2017, at The Judicial Sales Corporation, One South Wacker Drive - 24th Floor, CHICAGO, IL, 60606, sell at public auction to the highest bidder, as set forth below, the following described real estate: Commonly known as 9001 SHADY, Hickory Hills, IL 60457 Property Index No. 18-34-409-011-0000. The real estate is improved with a single family residence. The judgment amount was $204,659.94. Sale terms: 25% down of the highest bid by certified funds at the close of the sale payable to The Judicial Sales Corporation. No third party checks will be accepted. The balance, including the Judicial sale fee for Abandoned Residential Property Municipality Relief Fund, which is calculated on residential real estate at the rate of $1 for each $1,000 or fraction thereof of the amount paid by the purchaser not to exceed $300, in certified funds/or wire transfer, is due within twenty-four (24) hours. No fee shall be paid by the mortgagee acquiring the residential real estate pursuant to its credit bid at the sale or by any mortgagee, judgment creditor, or other lienor acquiring the residential real estate whose rights in and to the residential real estate arose prior to the sale. The subject property is subject to general real estate taxes, special assessments, or special taxes levied against said real estate and is offered for sale without any representation as to quality or quantity of title and without recourse to Plaintiff and in \â&#x20AC;?AS IS\â&#x20AC;? 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 (driverâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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 Plaintiffâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s attorney: POTESTIVO & ASSOCIATES, P.C., 223 WEST JACKSON BLVD, STE 610, Chicago, IL 60606, (312) 263-0003 Please refer to file number C16-38640. THE JUDICIAL SALES CORPORATION One South Wacker Drive, 24th Floor, Chicago, IL 60606-4650 (312) 236-SALE You can also visit The Judicial Sales Corporation at www. tjsc.com for a 7 day status report of pending sales. POTESTIVO & ASSOCIATES, P.C. 223 WEST JACKSON BLVD, STE 610 Chicago, IL 60606 (312) 263-0003 E-Mail: ilpleadings@potestivolaw.com Attorney File No. C16-38640 Attorney Code. 43932 Case Number: 16 CH 08463 TJSC#: 36-11422 NOTE: Pursuant to the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, you are advised that Plaintiffâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s attorney is deemed to be a debt collector attempting to collect a debt and any information obtained will be used for that purpose. I712303

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IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT - CHANCERY DIVISION PNC BANK, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION Plaintiff, -v.ZBIGNIEW KRAWCZYK, STANISLAWA KRAWCZYK Defendants 16 CH 009226 8107 W. 98TH STREET PALOS HILLS, IL 60465 NOTICE OF SALE PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above cause on November 14, 2016, an agent for The Judicial Sales Corporation, will at 10:30 AM on February 22, 2017, at The Judicial Sales Corporation, One South Wacker Drive - 24th Floor, CHICAGO, IL, 60606, sell at public auction to the highest bidder, as set forth below, the following described real estate: Commonly known as 8107 W. 98TH STREET, PALOS HILLS, IL 60465 Property Index No. 23-11-206-010. 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, including the Judicial sale fee for Abandoned Residential Property Municipality Relief Fund, which is calculated on residential real estate at the rate of $1 for each $1,000 or fraction thereof of the amount paid by the purchaser not to exceed $300, in certified funds/or wire transfer, is due within twenty-four (24) hours. No fee shall be paid by the mortgagee acquiring the residential real estate pursuant to its credit bid at the sale or by any mortgagee, judgment creditor, or other lienor acquiring the residential real estate whose rights in and to the residential real estate arose prior to the sale. The subject property is subject to general real estate taxes, special assessments, or special taxes levied against said real estate and is offered for sale without any representation as to quality or quantity of title and without recourse to Plaintiff and in \â&#x20AC;?AS IS\â&#x20AC;? 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 (driverâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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 Plaintiffâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s attorney: CODILIS & ASSOCIATES, P.C., 15W030 NORTH FRONTAGE ROAD, SUITE 100, BURR RIDGE, IL 60527, (630) 794-9876 Please refer to file number 14-16-08335. 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. 14-16-08335 Attorney ARDC No. 00468002 Attorney Code. 21762 Case Number: 16 CH 009226 TJSC#: 36-13550 NOTE: Pursuant to the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, you are advised that Plaintiffâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s attorney is deemed to be a debt collector attempting to collect a debt and any information obtained will be used for that purpose. I712902

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT - CHANCERY DIVISION WELLS FARGO BANK, N.A.; Plaintiff, vs. JOHN E. COMPTON; STEPHANIE N. COMPTON; WELLS FARGO BANK, N.A. S/B/M TO WORLD SAVINGS BANK FSB; Defendants, 16 CH 12722 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 20, 2017 at the hour of 11 a.m. in their office at 120 West Madison Street, Suite 718A, Chicago, Illinois, sell at public auction to the highest bidder for cash, as set forth below, the following described mortgaged real estate: P.I.N. 23-14-208-010-0000. Commonly known as 10539 South 81st Avenue, 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 Plaintiffâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Attorney, Manley Deas Kochalski, LLC, One East Wacker Drive, Chicago, Illinois 60601. (614) 220-5611. 16-025469 F2 INTERCOUNTY JUDICIAL SALES CORPORATION Selling Officer, (312) 444-1122 I712635

For Sale IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT - CHANCERY DIVISION U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE FOR THE HOLDERS OF THE FIRST FRANKLIN MORTGAGE LOAN TRUST MORTGAGE PASS-THROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2005-FF9, Plaintiff, vs. ANNA E. NESTOR A/K/A ANNA NESTOR, THOMAS B. NESTOR A/K/A THOMAS NESTOR, LINCOLNWAY COMMUNITY BANK, DOORNBOS HEATING AND AIR CONDITIONING, INC., STATE OF ILLINOIS DEPARTMENT OF REVENUE, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA FOR THE BENEFIT OF THE INTERNAL REVENUE, UNKNOWN OWNERS, GENERALLY, AND NONRECORD CLAIMANTS, Defendants, 11 CH 23296 NOTICE OF SALE PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above entitled cause on May 29, 2015 Intercounty Judicial Sales Corporation will on Friday, February 10, 2017 at the hour of 11 a.m. in their office at 120 West Madison Street, Suite 718A, Chicago, Illinois, sell at public auction to the highest bidder for cash, as set forth below, the following described mortgaged real estate: P.I.N. 27-09-108-020-0000. Commonly known as 14460 Raneys Lane, Orland Park, IL 60462. The mortgaged real estate is improved with a single family residence. If the subject mortgaged real estate is a unit of a common interest community, the purchaser of the unit other than a mortgagee shall pay the assessments required by subsection (g-1) of Section 18.5 of the Condominium Property Act. Sale terms: 10% down by certified funds, balance, by certified funds, within 24 hours. No refunds. The property will NOT be open for inspection For information call Ms. Kimberly S. Reid at Plaintiffâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Attorney, Kluever & Platt, L.L.C., 65 East Wacker Place, Chicago, Illinois 60601. (312) 236-0077. File Number SPSF.0399 INTERCOUNTY JUDICIAL SALES CORPORATION Selling Officer, (312) 444-1122 I711603

For Sale

ÂŽ

â&#x20AC;&#x153;10 in the Parkâ&#x20AC;? NEW as of 7/7/11 For Sale

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT - CHANCERY DIVISION U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE FOR MASTR ASSET BACKED SECURITIES TRUST 2006-NC1, MORTGAGE PASS-THROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2006-NC1 Plaintiff, vs. JAMES A. HANSEN, JR.; PATRICIA D. HANSEN; THE STATE OF ILLINOIS; SPRINGLEAF FINANCIAL SERVICES OF ILLINOIS, INC.; CAPITAL ONE BANK (USA), N.A. SUCCESSOR IN INTEREST TO CAPITAL ONE BANK; WINDY CITY DIAMONDS, LLC;ORLAND GOLF VIEW CONDOMINIUM OWNERSâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; ASSOCIATION; DEERFIELD COURT CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION Defendants, 16 CH 3733 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 20, 2017 at the hour of 11 a.m. in their office at 120 West Madison Street, Suite 718A, Chicago, Illinois, sell at public auction to the highest bidder for cash, as set forth below, the following described mortgaged real estate: P.I.N. 27-14-412-014-1062. Commonly known as 15715 Deerfield Court, S 1, 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 Plaintiffâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Attorney, Manley Deas Kochalski, LLC, One East Wacker Drive, Chicago, Illinois 60601. (614) 220-5611. 16-001975 F2 INTERCOUNTY JUDICIAL SALES CORPORATION Selling Officer, (312) 444-1122 I712625

PUBLISHERâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S NOTICE All Real Estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Fair Housing Act which makes it illegal to advertise â&#x20AC;&#x153;any preference, limitation or discrimination.â&#x20AC;? Familial status includes children under the age of 18 living with parents or legal custodians, pregnant women and people securing custody of children under 18. This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. To complain of discrimination call HUD toll-free at 1 (800) 669-9777. The tollfree telephone number for the hearing impaired is: 1 (800) 927-9275.

For Sale IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT - CHANCERY DIVISION THE BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON FKA THE BANK OF NEW YORK AS TRUSTEE FOR THE CERTIFICATEHOLDERS OF CWMBS, INC., CHL MORTGAGE PASS-THROUGH TRUST 205-22, MORTGAGE PASS-THROUGH TRUST 2005-22, MORTGAGE PASS-THROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2005-22 Plaintiff, vs. JANE BLANKSHAIN; THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, OFFICE OF THE DEPARTMENT OF THE TREASURY; UNKNOWN OWNERS AND NON-RECORD CLAIMANTS; CEDAR CROSSING III Defendants, 16 CH 2969 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 Thursday, February 16, 2017 at the hour of 11 a.m. in their office at 120 West Madison Street, Suite 718A, Chicago, Illinois, sell at public auction to the highest bidder for cash, as set forth below, the following described mortgaged real estate: P.I.N. 27-02-201-079-0000. Commonly known as 13701 Trafalgar Court, Orland Park, IL 60462. The mortgaged real estate is improved with a single family residence. If the subject mortgaged real estate is a unit of a common interest community, the purchaser of the unit other than a mortgagee shall pay the assessments required by subsection (g-1) of Section 18.5 of the Condominium Property Act. Sale terms: 10% down by certified funds, balance, by certified funds, within 24 hours. No refunds. The property will NOT be open for inspection For information call Sales Department at Plaintiffâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Attorney, Manley Deas Kochalski, LLC, One East Wacker Drive, Chicago, Illinois 60601. (614) 220-5611. 16-006114 F2 INTERCOUNTY JUDICIAL SALES CORPORATION Selling Officer, (312) 444-1122 I712115

For Sale IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT - CHANCERY DIVISION FIRST MIDWEST BANK, AS SUCCESSOR IN INTEREST TO THE FEDERAL DEPOSIT INSURANCE CORPORATION AS RECEIVER FOR PALOS BANK AND TRUST COMPANY; Plaintiff, vs. THOMAS E. ADAMS; TANYA M. ADAMS AKA TANYA ADAMS; CITIBANK FEDERAL SAVINGS BANK AND UNKNOWN OWNERS AND NON RECORD CLAIMANTS; Defendants, 14 CH 11336 NOTICE OF SALE PUBLIC NOTICE is hereby given that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure entered in the above entitled cause Intercounty Judicial Sales Corporation will on Monday, February 27, 2017, at the hour of 11 a.m. in their office at 120 West Madison Street, Suite 718A, Chicago, Illinois, sell to the highest bidder for cash, the following described mortgaged real estate: P.I.N. 23-28-404-006-0000. Commonly known as 14 Wild Cherry Lane, Palos Park, IL 60464. The mortgaged real estate is a single family residence. If the subject mortgaged real estate is a unit of a common interest community, the purchaser of the unit other than a mortgagee shall pay the assessments required by subsection (g-1) of Section 18.5 of the Condominium Property Act. Sale terms: Bidders must present, at the time of sale, a cashierâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s or certified check for 10% of the successful bid amount. The balance of the successful bid shall be paid within 24 hours, by similar funds. The property will NOT be open for inspection. For information call Ms. Erica N. Byrd at Plaintiffâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Attorney, Garfield & Merel, Ltd., 180 North Stetson Avenue, Chicago, Illinois 60601-6710. (312) 288-0105. INTERCOUNTY JUDICIAL SALES CORPORATION Selling Officer, (312) 444-1122 I713051

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Section 2 Thursday, January 26, 2017

The Regional News - The Reporter

Help Wanted

Wanted

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

OUT & ABOUT

The Regional News • The Reporter

Thursday, January 26, 2017

Southwest • Section 2, Page 7

BROADEN YOUR HORIZONS WOLFGANG PUCK’S KITCHEN

Trade secret: Enjoy a taste of spring

Bridge Teen Center provides free events

The Bridge Teen Center, 15555 S. 71st Ct., Orland Park, is offering several free events for teens in seventh through 12th grade in the week ahead. For more information on activities, call (708) 532-0500. • Balloon Frenzi with Nehemiah Heckler is set for 7:30 p.m. Friday, Jan. 27. Students are invited to come and play balloon-themed games and enjoy a live performance by hip hop artist Nehemiah Heckler. Free food will be provided by Chili’s. This is a high school after-hours night. High school students are invited to stay for extended hours from 10:30 p.m. to midnight. • “Culinary: Grilled Avocado Wraps” is scheduled for 4 to 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 31. The Chefs at Granite City will come and teach students how to assemble and cook grilled avocado wraps. • “The Science of Happiness” is set for 5 to 6 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 31. Students will gain insights on the science of happiness. • “Precious Metals & Fine Jewelry” will be held from 4 to 5 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 1, James & Sons Fine Jewelers will teach students about the exploration of precious metals and fine jewelry. • “Project Give: Thank You, Bridge Community” is scheduled for 5 to 6 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 1. Students will hand-write “thank you” notes to The Bridge’s supporters and volunteers. • “Advanced Writing: From Idea to Publication” is set for 4 to 5:30 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 2. Students will talk to an editor at Triumph Books and learn about the process of publishing a book. • “Paper Football & Nachos” will be held from 5 to 6 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 2. Students will play paper football and snack on nachos. • “Super Bowl Fan Fest” is scheduled for 7:30 to 10:30 p.m. Friday, Feb. 3. Students are invited to a night of Super Bowl-themed games and snacks. There will also be a live performance by the poppunk band As We Are. Free food samples will be provided by Peppo’s.

By Wolfgang Puck

A student works on her creation at a basketmaking class at the Log Cabin Center for the Arts.

The Center sets event slate

The Center, 12700 Southwest Highway, Palos Park, is offering several events in the days ahead. For more information, or to register for a program, call (708) 361-3650. • A Women’s Personal Growth Retreat is set for Friday Jan. 27 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Life coach, author and Reiki Master Lisa Espinosa will host a day of renewal and inspiration. As 2017 begins, participants are invited to spend the day listening to one’s Soul and finding direction on the next evolution of life’s work. Attendees will receive a special Reiki attunement from Lisa. The retreat will include meditations, mindful movement, and some exercises from Lisa’s book, “Answering Your Inner Calling.” Those attending are asked to bring a journal. Retreat fee is $50, which includes lunch. • A Winter Knitting/Crochet Retreat is scheduled for Saturday Jan. 28 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Those interested in the retreat are asked to bring knitting/ crochet projects and spend the day in the Forest View Room with a fgroup of fiber-loving people in a relaxed atmosphere. There will be lots of time to knit/crochet, laugh, and make new friends! Retreat fee: $50 includes leadership and lunch. • A Breadmaking session is set for Sunday, Jan. 29 from 1 to 5 p.m. Students will learn the ancient art of making bread from instructor Lois Lauer, who loves the entire process, from proofing the yeast to kneading the dough, from shaping the loaves to buttering their freshly baked surfaces. Each participant will make a loaf of bread plus a free-form braided ring of bread. While waiting for the bread to rise and bake, the class will taste and learn about a variety of breads made with different grains, and learn more about the process and history of bread making. Class fee: $24 plus $8 materials fee. Students are asked to bring a basket or box and a kitchen towel for taking home the warm bread. • Womantalk! is scheduled for Tuesday, Jan. 31 from 10 to 11:30 a.m. Womantalk! is a nurturing and supportive discussion group, focusing on the month’s in Sarah Ban Breathnach’s “Simple Abundance” book, or any other inspirational resources that attendees would like to bring to share. The focus is on learning to live authentically, joyfully,

Harry Meneghini teaches stained glass classes at The Center.

simply, gracefully and gratefully. Participants are asked to call to confirm attendance. • Luncheon: A Photographer’s Journey through Main Street, Illinois is set for Tuesday Jan. 31 from noon to 2 p.m. Adventure photographer John Lynn will present a virtual tour of Illinois at this luncheon. He will narrate a slide show of the histories, traditions and personalities of the cities and towns of Illinois, claiming to be the only person to have personally visited all 2,400 of them. John is a writer, humorist, traveler, and educator from Peoria. Luncheons cost $22 and reservations must be made in advance. • “Basketmaking Six Thursdays” begins Feb. 2 from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Instructor Jane Dwyer will show students how to make a wood-bottomed basket with a choice of colored trim. Participants will continue to learn techniques for weaving a variety of shapes and sizes of baskets and get to choose their own project in consultation with the instructor. Students typically make two or three baskets over the six-week session. The class fee is $100 plus a $25 materials fee. • “Stained Glass Six Thursdays,” beginning Feb. 2 from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Instructor Harry Meneghini will help participants create stained glass pieces by learning the principles of glass design and color and the techniques of cutting and soldering, using both lead came and copper foil to join the pieces of glass. Starting with simple projects, eventually students will design their own windows, pictures and lamps. Class Fee: $100. A list of glass and supplies which will need to be purchased will be distributed the first day of class, or may be obtained at The Center office, but students are asked to wait until after the first class to make any purchases.

OMARR’S WEEKLY ASTROLOGICAL FORECAST By Jeraldine Saunders ARIES (Mar 21-Apr. 19): Make your own Declaration of Independence. Go your own way in pursuing goals and activities that matter to you and you alone. You’ll fare a lot better by working off on your own rather than trying to be part of a group. TAURUS (Apr. 20-May 20): Don’t forget how to enjoy yourself. An unexpected surplus of free time may allow you to pursue hobbies and pastimes that may have been pushed to the back burner. Pay attention to conversations as someone may have sage advice to offer. GEMINI (May 21-June 20): Don’t overplay your hand. Allow others some time to mull over a proposal that you’ve presented to them as a soft sell policy will suit you better. You can absorb knowledge like a sponge so try to explore new areas of study. CANCER (June 21-July 22): You get what you pay for. Spending a little extra now for quality items may save you from headaches further down the road. Don’t be so wary of strangers that you avoid making a new acquaintance

that could turn into a valuable friend. LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Adapt and overcome. You may need to rethink your approach to deal with a problem that may be outside of your area of expertise. It may be better to follow someone else’s lead when trying to please a difficult crowd. VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Be it ever so humble there’s no place like home. Focus your attention on what’s going on under your own roof as relationships and understanding can be improved. Taking measures that benefit the whole household will breed harmony. LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22.): Signals could be misconstrued. Beware that what you may intend as mere politeness could be interpreted as a come on. Hold off on taking action before seeking the advice of a wise mentor or experienced friend. SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Full speed ahead. When you set your mind toward an objective or goal it may be impossible for anyone to slow you down. The power of sheer will should be sufficient to help you overcome any obstacles that lie in your path. SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec.

21): Rise to the occasion. If you back down from someone else’s criticism it may only serve to strengthen their conviction. Stand your ground and keep your cool to keep this minor inconvenience from gaining more traction than it deserves. CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Get away from it all. Some time spent off on your own could allow for some quiet contemplation and introspection that could help you get to the heart of some troubling matters. Avoid getting drawn into conflicts. AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Stay within your boundaries. Being reckless or taking unnecessary chances could backfire in the worst way so try to play it safe. You could be as charming as can be but if someone isn’t in the mood for it you’re just wasting your time. PISCES (Feb. 19-Mar. 20): Don’t sweat the small stuff. Trivial problems may seek to derail you from getting anything done but if you just stay focused on what is actually important you’ll be fine. Maintain an air of civility even when others are acting quite the opposite.

In the depths of winter, it can sometimes seem as if springtime will never come. Winds blow cold. Snow blankets fields of earth so hard that you can’t imagine vegetables will ever grow again. The only truly soothing warmth you can reliably find usually comes from the kitchen stove. So now is the perfect time for you to make fresh pea soup. Pea soup in the middle of winter? Yes, you read that correctly. And I don’t mean thick, graygreen, porridge-like soup made from dried split peas; the kind of soup you might find on so many diner menus at this time of year. I mean bright green, fresh-tasting pea soup that sings with the flavors of springtime while warming and soothing you with every delicious spoonful. I’m sure you’re thinking that would be impossible since fresh peas won’t be available for soupmaking until the ground thaws and springtime is here again. So I’ll let you in on a little secret that many chefs won’t tell you: Except at the very peak of spring, the “fresh” peas you’ll find in restaurants may well be frozen ones. That isn’t scandalous, unless, of course, the waiter and cooks swear to you that they are fresh when they’re indeed frozen. Because frozen peas, especially the little baby ones often labeled “petite” peas or “petits pois,” as the French call them, can have the best flavor and texture of any frozen vegetable I know. And you can quickly, easily turn them into a beautiful, creamy soup. To underscore the sense of springtime freshness my creamy pea soup delivers, I like to garnish it with a dollop of Green yogurt flavored with fresh lemon juice and chopped fresh mint leaves. (Fresh basil leaves would also be delicious instead.) Feel free to use low-fat or nonfat yogurt, as your own dietary needs may require. Also, if you like, you can use much less of the cream called for in the recipe and more of the

chicken stock or vegetable stock, to make a version lighter in fat; the natural starchiness of the peas themselves will still keep the soup tasting surprisingly rich. Whatever choices you make, take care not to let the pureed soup sit on the stovetop for too long, or it will gradually discolor. If you don’t plan to serve it right away, cool down the soup quickly over an ice bath, which will help set the bright green color; reheat it just before serving. You can even freeze individual portions in freezer containers. Or, once spring arrives, serve this soup cold and keep enjoying it on into the summer! CREAMY PEA SOUP WITH MINT YOGURT Serves 8 MINT YOGURT: • 1 cup (250 mL) plain whole-milk, low-fat or nonfat Greek yogurt • 15 leaves fresh mint, chopped • 1 1/2 teaspoons honey CREAMY PEA SOUP: • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter • 1 medium-sized organic leek, white and light green parts only, cut lengthwise, thoroughly rinsed of all grit, and thinly sliced • 1 teaspoon minced garlic • 6 cups (1.5 L) organic, low sodium chicken or vegetable stock or broth, plus a little extra as needed • 1 cup (250 mL) heavy cream • 1/2 lemon • 1 tablespoon honey • 20 ounces (600g) frozen organic green petite peas (usually 2 standard-sized bags) • Kosher salt • Freshly ground white pepper • Small sprigs fresh mint for garnish Up to several hours ahead of

time, prepare the mint yogurt: In a nonreactive mixing bowl, stir together the yogurt, chopped mint and honey. Cover the bowl and refrigerate until serving time. To make the base of the soup, in a large nonreactive saucepan melt 2 tablespoons of the butter over medium heat. When the butter begins to foam, add the leek and garlic, reduce the heat to low, and saute, stirring frequently and taking care not to let the vegetables brown, until the leek has softened, about 4 minutes. Stir in the stock or broth, raise the heat to medium-high, and bring to a boil. Stir in the cream, squeeze in the juice of the lemon, and add 2 teaspoons of the honey. Stir in all but about 1/2 cup (125 mL) of the peas, reserving those for garnishing. Bring the liquid back to a boil. Add salt and pepper to taste, and adjust the sweetness with up to 1 teaspoon more of the honey. Continue boiling until the peas are tender, about 1 minute. Remove the pan from the stove. In a food processor or blender, working in batches to avoid overfilling, puree the soup, following the manufacturer’s instructions for working carefully with hot liquids; add a little more stock, if necessary, to thin the consistency. As each batch is pureed, pour it into a clean pot. Taste and adjust the seasonings with salt and pepper. (If you are making the soup ahead, transfer the hot puree to a heatproof bowl set inside a larger bowl partially filled with ice and water, and stir until completely cooled. Cover and refrigerate.) Before serving, melt the remaining butter with 1 tablespoon stock in a small skillet over mediumhigh heat. Add the reserved 1/2 cup (125 mL) peas and saute just until heated through, about 3 minutes. To serve the soup, gently reheat over medium-low heat. Ladle the hot soup into heated serving bowls. Gently slide some peas from a spoon held near the surface of the soup to float them in each bowl. Garnish each bowl with a dollop of the mint yogurt and sprigs of mint. Serve immediately.

VIDEOVIEW BY JAY BOBBIN NOTICE: Ratings for each film begin with a ‘star’ rating — one star meaning ‘poor,’ four meaning ‘excellent’ — followed by the Motion Picture Association of America rating, and then by a family-viewing guide, the key for which appears below.

STARTING THIS WEEK:

“THE LIGHT BETWEEN OCEANS”: In director and screenwriter Derek Cianfrance’s (“The Place Beyond the Pines”) affecting, well-acted adaptation of M.L. Stedman’s best-seller, a lighthouse keeper and his wife — played by Michael Fassbender and Alicia Vikander — try to resolve being childless on the isolated island where they reside by claiming an infant they find drifting in a boat with its deceased father. Problems arise years later when the biological mother (Rachel Weisz) starts searching for her daughter, whom she believed to have died as well. The highly atmospheric quality of the drama, filmed in Australia and New Zealand, helps immensely here. Earlier “Breaker Morant” co-stars Jack Thompson and Bryan Brown also appear. *** (PG-13: AS, P) (Also on Blu-ray and On Demand) “INFERNO”: After “The Da Vinci Code” and “Angels & Demons,” novelist Dan Brown’s adventures of symbiologist Robert Langdon — again played by Tom Hanks — continue with this third adventure in the screen series from returning director Ron Howard. After regaining consciousness in an Italian hospital, an amnesiac Langdon teams with a doctor (Felicity Jones, “Rogue One: A Star Wars Story”) to try to regain his memory and stop a villain’s (Ben Foster) plan to deploy a widely lethal virus. DVD extras: six “making-of” documentaries; deleted and extended scenes. *** (PG-13: AS, P, V) (Also on Bluray and On Demand) “USS INDIANAPOLIS: MEN OF COURAGE”: Nicolas Cage doesn’t don uniforms all that often in his roles, but he’s fully and appropriately attired in this fact-based

saga as the captain of the title vessel, which is on a top-secret assignment toward the end of World War II when a Japanese submarine attacks it. The ship is wrecked, leaving its sailors in a desperate fight for survival in shark-laden waters. (This is the incident that Robert Shaw’s Quint refers to in “Jaws.”) Thomas Jane, Tom Sizemore, Matt Lanter (“Timeless”) and James Remar also star in the tense adventure directed by Mario Van Peebles. DVD extra: “makingof” documentary. *** (R: AS, P, V) (Also on Blu-ray) “THE MONSTER”: Actresswriter Zoe Kazan has been generating some of her own projects lately (“Ruby Sparks” being one), but she places herself in the hands of filmmaker Bryan Bertino (“The Strangers”) for this melodrama that very possibly involves a literal monster. Kazan and Ella Ballentine — who was seen recently as PBS’ new “Anne of Green Gables” — play a divorcee and her daughter, who have a car accident en route to see the girl’s father (Scott Speedman, “Felicity”). They end up stranded in a wooded area, where something mysterious and potentially very lethal pursues them. Aaron Douglas also stars. DVD extra: “making-of” documentary. *** (R: AS, P, V) (Also on Blu-ray) “GUARDIANS OF OZ”: The character Dorothy is missing from this animated entry in the all-family franchise, but several other popular figures — namely, the Scarecrow, the Tin Woodman and the Cowardly Lion (voices of Jeff Minnerly, Dino Andrade and Chuck Kourouklis) — still are on hand. They fall victim to spells cast by witch Eviline (voice of Ambyr Childers), and their only hope of rescue lies with another sorceress (voice of Melissa Hutchison) and the flying monkey (voice of Steve Canon) who took Eviline’s very special broom. “The Book of Life” director Jorge Gutierrez co-wrote and executive-produced the film. DVD extras: “makingof” documentary; four TV “mini”episodes.*** (PG: V) (Also on On Demand)

“THE HANDMAIDEN”: A Cannes Film Festival winner for its production design, director Park Chan-wook’s (“Oldboy”) take on the Sarah Waters novel “Fingersmith” transplants the plot from its original British setting to 1930s Korea, which then was under occupation by Japan. A Japanese woman’s (Kim Min-hee) inheritance is targeted by her new Korean maid (Tae-ri Kim), with a con artist (Ha Jung-woo) pulling the figurative strings. However, unexpected relationships develop and complicate the scheme considerably. *** (Not rated: AS, P)

COMING SOON:

“MASTERMINDS” (Jan. 31): An armored-truck driver (Zach Galifianakis) becomes the fall guy for a thieving couple (Kristen Wiig, Owen Wilson). (PG-13: AS, P, V) “JACK REACHER: NEVER GO BACK” (Jan. 31): Tom Cruise returns as novelist Lee Child’s military veteran turned troubleshooter; Cobie Smulders also stars. (PG-13: AS, P, V) “PINOCCHIO” (Jan. 31): The animated classic gets “Walt Disney Signature Collection” treatment, with a bounty of bonus features including Walt Disney’s own comments on the film. (G) “QUEEN OF KATWE” (Jan. 31): Mastering the game of chess has a major effect on a Ugandan youngster (Madina Nalwanga); David Oyelowo and Lupita Nyong’o also star in the true drama. (PG: AS) “GUESS WHO’S COMING TO DINNER: 50TH ANNIVERSARY EDITION” (Feb. 7): Katharine Hepburn won her second Oscar, opposite Spencer Tracy and Sidney Poitier, in the comedy-drama. (Not rated: AS, P) “KING KONG: ULTIMATE EDITION” (Feb. 7): Director Peter Jackson’s retelling of the saga gets an upgrade that includes a half-hour of deleted scenes; Adrien Brody and Naomi Watts star. (PG13 and unrated versions: P, V) FAMILY-VIEWING GUIDE KEY: AS, adult situations; N, nudity; P, profanity; V, violence; GV, particularly graphic violence.

8 Section 2

Thursday, January 26, 2017

The Regional News • The Reporter

Volunteer enjoys driving Smith Crossing residents to medical appointments

Friend in need

What you should consider when adding a second pet to your home By Jessica Perkins Pet owners are prone to assign human feelings and emotions to their animals, including their pet’s desire for a companion. Are these feelings legitimate, or are they just a figment of the owner’s imagination? Can adding a second pet to your family help improve the quality of life for an existing pet? Veterinarian Dr. Ted Vaughn, of Wexford Veterinary Hospital in Wexford, Penn., says it all depends. “Pets need stimulation, and some-times that comes from another pet,” he says. Animal companionship is a real need for some pets, Vaughn says. However, owners should consider several factors before they add a second pet to the family. If your existing pet begins to demonstrate destructive behavior or show signs of lethargy, boredom, depression or anxiety, and a medical condition has been ruled out, Vaughn says it’s possible your pet is lonely. Victoria Wells is the senior manager of behavior and training for the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. Giving a pet a new friend to play with can boost its fitness and provide a source of happiness, she says. “Dogs are extremely social animals and benefit from the company of friends,” Wells says. “Aerobic exercise in the form of play decreases stress and provides enrichment. Many cats enjoy feline companionship, as well, and benefit from the type of play that only another cat can provide.” Keep in mind that finding the right second pet is crucial to successful companionship. Every animal has a different personality, and not all pets will live together in harmony. According to Vaughn, the best thing to do is to work with a breeder or organization that will let the pet owner give an animal a trial run before the

SLOW AND STEADY

It takes time to transition a new pet into a new environment. Veterinarian Dr. Ted Vaughn recommends pet owners follow a few guidelines when bringing home a second pet. • Have the new pet examined by a veterinarian to ensure you’re not bringing disease or illness into your home. • Take things slowly. Allow the new animal to explore its new environment. Place your new pet in a room alone, and allow the existing pet to get used to its smell through the safety of a door. Over time, you might want to switch out the animals, allowing the new pet to become familiar with the sights and smells in its new home. • Eventually, the animals can meet face to face. Try to make the introduction through a window or crate in which the animals can see each other but not attack. • Pets eventually can inhabit the same space, but their interaction should initially be supervised. After a couple of weeks, the animals will likely resume normal behaviors.

purchase is final. “Make sure you find the right pet,” Vaughn says. “Some pets will exhibit dominant or aggressive behavior when placed in the wrong environment or mixed with the wrong personality.” Whether you get a cat or a dog, the second pet should possess an energy level and play style similar to your existing pet, according to Wells. “If the goal of adopting a second pet is to provide comfort and companionship to an animal that does not like to be left alone, then the new cat or dog should be rather confident and welladjusted,” she says.

Linda Quagliani makes a habit of arriving a half hour early to drive Smith Crossing residents to medical appointments—even when the temperature hovers around zero. She’s one of a handful of dedicated volunteers who shuttle residents of the life plan community located at 10501 Emilie Lane to area medical centers, clinics and doctors’ offices for scheduled appointments. “I look forward to doing this, and I really enjoy my conversations with residents,” she said. “We talk about family, where they’ve lived, and just general news of the day.” A retired business owner with 30 years of experience in the insurance industry, Quagliani and her husband, David, live in the nearby Eagle Ridge subdivision. “Given my background, I appreciate how important it is to be a safe driver,” she said. “I’ve enjoyed volunteering throughout my life. And because Smith Crossing is so close, this is a good fit for me.” Quagliani has served on the boards of the Orland Park Area Chamber of Commerce and Sertoma. She’s also a member of Rotary International. Shelly Genis, volunteer coordinator for Smith Senior Living which sponsors Smith Crossing and its sister community Smith Village in Chicago’s Beverly neighborhood, commends Quagliani for her dedication. “Linda settled into her role as a volunteer driver with such ease,” Genis said. “Our residents always look forward to seeing her. They know they’re in good hands, as they sit back, relax and enjoy the ride. Like the other volunteer drivers,

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Quagliani uses the sedan owned and insured by Smith Senior Living instead of her own car. The arrangement protects both driver and resident in case anything happens. In addition to arriving in plenty of time to pick up car keys and retrieve the Smith Crossing car from the underground parking garage, Quagliani also is conscientious about making sure residents safely make their way into medical buildings. She accompanies them to their appointments. “We hope to attract more volunteer drivers like Linda,” said Frank Guajardo, executive director of Smith Crossing. “Many of our residents still drive, but for some in their eighties and beyond, turning over the keys to others offers a better option.” Although several doctors regularly see their patients at Smith Crossing, residents must rely on themselves, family members, friends or volunteers for transportation to medical and dental appointments not available on Smith Crossing’s campus. To take advantage of the services of volunteer drivers, residents book their rides one week to three weeks in advance. For volunteers, there’s flexibility. When accepting driving assignments, they receive plenty of notice. “It’s easy to plan ahead,” said Quagliani. Volunteer drivers must complete

Photo by Smith Crossing

Volunteer Linda Quagliani enjoys conversing with Smith Crossing residents while driving them to medical appointments.

an orientation and vetting process that requires a background check, drug test and driving for a brief distance with a police officer. Volunteers also must their own carry cell phones or one supplied by Smith Senior Living. To learn about being a driver for residents and other volunteer opportunities, consider attending a monthly volunteer orientation, 10 a.m., Saturday, February 4. To sign up, visit www.smithcrossing. org or call Shelly Genis, Smith volunteer coordinator, at 708-3262424.

About Smith Crossing

Smith Crossing is one of only 10 life plan communities in Illinois awarded a five-year accreditation

for “exemplary conformance” to international standards set by CARF-CCAC, the industry’s sole accrediting body. Sponsored by Smith Senior Living, a not-for-profit organization serving older adults since 1924, it provides spacious residences and engaging programs for independent living, as well as assisted living, memory support and skilled nursing care. It also provides short-term rehabilitation services for residents and others requiring assistance after surgery or a medical incident. For more information about Smith Crossing, call 708-326-2300 or visit SmithCrossing.org.