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Volume LVI, No. 39

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

2 SECTIONS 22 PAGES

Thursday, December 17, 2015

Evergreen Park firefighter dies battling blaze

By Dermot Connolly

Riding in style to help Toys for Tots

Photo by Dermot Connolly

Ralph Andrade (above) drove his Batmobile-style three-wheeler in the Toys for Tots parade down Western Avenue on Dec. 6. The parade began at about 9:30 a.m., at 83rd and Western in Chicago. Organizers said the good weather helped to swell the participation to more than 70,000 motorcyclists carrying toys of all kinds.

Oak Lawn, Burbank work together to resolve flooding issues

By Dermot Connolly The Oak Lawn Village Board approved an intergovernmental agreement between Oak Lawn, Burbank and the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District mandating that the three government bodies will work together for the next 10 years to devise solutions to chronic flooding problems in both communities.

A similar agreement between Oak Lawn and Chicago Ridge is in the works, too. All three communities are affected by recurrent

flooding associated with the Melvina Ditch Reservoir, located in Burbank at 87th and Melvina, on the border with Oak Lawn.

Stormwater sewers within an 8.5 squaremile area around it flow into the reservoir, including most of Burbank and Oak Lawn.

Following several flooding episodes in recent years affecting homes and streets around the reservoir in both communities, the MWRD has proposed expanding the reservoir and improving a pump located at 87th and Natchez Avenue.

As it was explained at the Dec. 8 board

meeting by Village Manager Larry Deetjen and Trustee Alex Olejniczak (2nd), Oak Lawn’s responsibility, as well as Chicago Ridge’s, will be to reinforce the pipes and culverts, largely underground, through which water from the reservoir is pumped. The storm water emerges from underground near Southwest Highway and Ridgeland Avenue, eventually making its way into Stony Creek, which then carries it to the Cal-Sag Channel.

But reinforcing the culverts along Ridgeland See FLOODING, Page 7

Local legislator approves of No Child Left Behind revisions

By Joe Boyle Much like classroom chalkboards, No Child Left Behind will soon disappear as the Senate voted to dismantle the law that was originally signed by President George W. Bush in 2002 with the goal of providing a better education for all U.S. students.

The Senate voted 85-12 to revise No Child Left Behind on Dec. 9. President Obama signed the bill the next day.

No Child Left Behind has been reincarnated as the Every Student Succeeds Act. When Bush first signed the No Child Left Behind Act 13 years ago, the measure received

So you think hitting is easy?

Cubs hitting coach John Mallee gave a two-hour hitting clinic at Marist High School last Thursday and broke things down using sophisticated analytics that resembled a physics or math lesson. He also showed players of and coaches from the area some physical drills to work with. For more photos on the Cubs coach’s visit, see Sports.

Photo by Jeff Vorva

bipartisan support. The bill was designed to increase accountability of administrators and teachers to deliver a quality education to all students.

However, critics have pointed out that despite the good intentions of that bill, the No Child Left Behind Act never reached those goals. State Rep. Mary Flowers (D-31st), whose district includes portions of Oak Lawn and Chicago’s Southwest Side, said changes were necessary to provide a solid education for students in poorer communities.

“From what I have learned and read, the new bill will give the power of education back to the states,” said Flowers. “There is

no one school that fits all. There is not one student that fits all. They are all different.”

Flowers and other critics of the No Child Left Behind Act have said that instruction too often was based on following the strict federal guidelines of Common Core, which emphasizes the need to not only answer a math problem but to understand how someone reached a conclusive answer.

Common Core had been used in 40 states.

While Common Core will continue under the new bill, the federal government can no longer insist on particular academic standards See NO CHILD, Page 7

building without permits.

Capuano was taken by ambuFire departments and com- lance to Advocate Christ Medical munities from Evergreen Park Center in Oak Lawn, where he to Palos Park are mourning was pronounced dead. the loss of Chicago “It’s a very sad firefighter/paramedic day here,” Evergreen Daniel Capuano, 42, Park Fire Chief Ronwhose wake is being ald Kleinhaus said on held today at St. Rita Monday. “This is the High School in Chifirst time something cago, followed by his like this has happened funeral tomorrow. to us.”

In addition to beKleinhaus and ing a 15-year veteran other members of the of the Chicago Fire department had just Capuano Department, where he returned from a visit was assigned to Tower with Capuano’s wife, Ladder 34 in the South Chicago Julie, a Chicago Public Schools neighborhood, Capuano also was teacher, and their three children a part-time Evergreen Park fire- in their nearby Mount Greenwood fighter for the past 16 years. home. Their daughter, Amanda, The former resident of Palos 16, attends Mother McAuley High Park, who began his career with School, while Nick, 12, and Anthe Palos Fire Protection District drew, 13, are students at Queen of based there, was killed while bat- Martyrs School in Evergreen Park, tling a blaze in a vacant Chicago a few blocks from their house. warehouse early Monday morning.

“It has been very, very rough Chicago Fire Department of- here,” said Queen of Martyrs ficials said Capuano was search- Principal Kathleen Tomaszewski. ing through thick smoke on the “We’ve had two parents pass away second floor of the building when in the past week.” he suffered fatal injuries, falling In addition to knowing the through an unmarked elevator Capuanos through the school, shaft in the warehouse. Ac- Tomaszewski grew up with Julie cording to city officials, illegal Capuano in Chicago’s Wrightwood work, including removal of the See CAPUANO, Page 7 elevator, was being done in the

Heart patients celebrate holidays after receiving a second chance

By Dermot Connolly “The happiest day of my life was the day I died,” said Gerald “Jack” Boekeloo, 72, who was very much alive and enjoying the festivities at Advocate Christ Medical Center’s Annual VAD, Heart and Lung Transplant Holiday Party last Thursday at the Hilton Oak Lawn.

The party, said to be the largest of its kind in the Chicago area with more than 200 in attendance, brought together Advocate Christ patients who have received heart transplants, lung transplants, or ventricular assist devices, along with their families, doctors, nurses and other staff.

Boekeloo was among those wearing battery packs attached to an LVAD, or left ventricular assist device, which he received after suffering a major heart attack and lost conscience while driving on 95th Street near Cicero Avenue on Nov. 19, 2011. Sitting beside him was Dawn Bausone-Gazda, a nurse at Christ whom he credits with saving his life that day.

LVADs are mechanical heart pumps that are surgically implanted on the left ventricle, one of the heart’s four chambers, and take over when the ventricle cannot pump oxygenated blood to the aorta and throughout the body.

“I wasn’t feeling very well,” Boekeloo said, explaining why he was driving east on 95th Street, trying to get to the hospital at 4440 W. 95th St. He crossed Cicero Avenue, but only made it to the White Castle parking lot on the corner, when he lost

Photo by Dermot Connolly

Former Oak Lawn resident Gerald “Jack” Boekeloo, 72, hugs Dawn Bausone-Gazda, a nurse at Advocate Christ Medical Center who saved his life when he had a heart attack while driving to the hospital.

consciousness.

Baisone-Gazda, a nurse at Christ for 28 years, had just left her mother’s bedside at the hospital when she saw the commotion in the parking lot and came over.

After determining that Boekeloo was having a heart attack, she revived him using CPR, and left when the ambulance arrived.

Boekeloo remained hospitalized for months before receiving the LVAD the following April, and told everyone he met about the nurse who saved his life, hoping to meet and thank her.

“I even told her once, when she came in to draw my blood. But she didn’t say anything until another nurse confided that she might be the one I was looking for.”

See PATIENTS, Page 8

2 The Reporter

Thursday, December 17, 2015

Jazzin’ up the holidays

Chicago Ridge police chief issues stern message about drunk driving The Chicago Ridge Police Department has a message for motorists during the holiday season: Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over.

Due to the increase in drunk driving-related fatalities during the holidays each year, law enforcement agencies across the nation will be actively searching to arrest drunk drivers into the new year.

The seat belt law violators also will be a focus because far too many still die because they failed to take the step of bucking up every time they get into a vehicle.

“It’s time for all drivers to get the message,” said Chicago Ridge Police Chief Robert Pyznarski.

“Drunk driving is a choice you

THE

make, and when you make that choice, people get hurt or die.

That’s why we’re joining with the Illinois Department of Transportation, the Illinois State Police and law enforcement throughout Illinois and the nation to share the message of Drive Sober of Get Pulled Over.”

Pyznarski said that the safest way to get home is to drive sober or catch a ride with a sober designated driver.

“If you plan on drinking at the holiday party or at a restaurant, plan ahead and hand the keys over to someone else – a sober friend, a taxi or (take) public transportation,” said Pyznarski.

Singer Petra van Nuis sings “Christmas Time Is Here” from the 1965 Charlie Brown Christmas TV special She’s accompanied by drummer Bob Rummage, bassist Jake Vinsel and guitarist Andy Brown during a jazz concert held recently at the Oak Lawn Library. The event was held during the first Holiday Open House at the library.

REPORTER

Photo by Joe Boyle

Chicago Ridge / Evergreen Park / Hickory Hills Oak Lawn / Palos Hills / Worth Publisher Amy Richards Editor Joe Boyle Sports Editor Jeff Vorva Advertising Sales Val Draus To advertise call (708) 448-6161

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POLICE REPORTS Evergreen Park

Hickory Hills

Retail theft charges

Woman arrested • Kari Knox, 41, of Hazel Crest, on warrant

was charged with retail theft at 11:11 a.m. Dec. 5 at Meijer, 9200 S. Western Ave. Police said Knox took six containers of baby formula worth $111.80.

• Anika Clay, 19, of Justice, was charged with retail theft at 5:20 p.m. Dec. 9 at Walmart, 2500 W. 95th St. Police said she took five items worth $25.62, including cough syrup, cortisone cream, Tylenol and a thermometer.

• Andre Berry, 52, of Chicago, was charged with retail theft for allegedly taking 11 items of food from Pete’s Market, 3720 W. 95th St., at 12:25 p.m. Dec. 9. Police said the merchandise was worth $30.

Two charged following fight Octavio Hayes, 25, and Tenise Williams, 21, a man and woman from Chicago, were both charged with battery after a heated argument escalated while Hayes was playing video games in the 9500 block of South Francisco Avenue at 12:45 p.m. Dec. 4.

Police said Hayes struck Williams in her head and choked and kicked her, and she punched and choked him.

Weapons charge upgraded Charges against Richard Burns, 56, of Chicago, were upgraded last week to felony aggravated unlawful use of a weapon after a loaded handgun was found in his car during a traffic stop at 4:56 p.m. Nov. 23. Police said he was carrying the uncased weapon although he did not have a concealed carry permit.

Tanya M. Howard, 37, of the 8800 block of South 84th Avenue, Hickory Hills, was arrested on an outstanding warrant from Hickory Hills at 2:14 p.m. Saturday outside her home.

Police said the warrant was for failure to appear in court on a charge of driving without a license. She is due in court on Dec. 31.

Speeding charge filed Gilbert M. Raymond, 30, of the 7700 block of West 81st Street, Bridgeview, was cited for speeding 62 mph in a 30 mph zone in the 8800 block of Kean Avenue at 12:25 a.m. Sunday. He is due in court on Dec. 31.

Drug paraphernalia citations issued Reynaldo J. Garcia, 19, of the 4500 block of Maple Avenue, Brookfield, and Aleksander Savic, 24, of the 4100 block of Joliet Avenue, Lyons, were issued local ordinance citations for alleged possession of drug paraphernalia when their car was pulled over at 2 a.m. Friday at 87th Street and Roberts Road.

Police said a wooden pipe used to smoke marijuana was found in the car.

Oak Lawn DUI charge fil d after collision Matt B. Van Etten, 27, of the 10100 block of South Leavitt Avenue, Chicago, was charged with driving under the influence of alcohol and other offenses following a two-car collision at 111th Street and Kilpatrick Avenue at 4:29 a.m. Nov. 13.

Police said no injuries were reported in the collision in which Van Etten’s car struck another vehicle and a fire hydrant. Be-

sides DUI, he was charged with improper turn, failure to reduce speed to avoid a crash, and damage to village property. He was scheduled to appear in court on Dec. 10.

Seatbelt violation escalates Julisa I. Buford, 25, of the 3900 block of West 115th Street, Alsip, was charged with fleeing or eluding police after being stopped by officers checking for seatbelt violations at 9:43 p.m. Nov. 27 at Southwest Highway and 95th Street.

Police said Buford drove away after the initial stop and was stopped again a few blocks away. They said she was also charged with obstructing justice and disobeying a police officer because she kept the car doors locked and moved around in the car to avoid being taken into custody. She was also cited for driving without insurance or a seatbelt. Buford is due in court on Jan. 6.

Hit-and-run leads to multiple driving charges Michael R. Swalec, 46, of the 14300 block of South Knox Avenue, Midlothian, was charged with DUI and other offenses after allegedly striking a parked car at 8 p.m. Dec. 7 in the 10300 block of South LaPorte Avenue. Police said he left the scene of the accident and drove until his car’s engine failed a block away. In addition to DUI, he was charged with failure to reduce speed to avoid an accident, and leaving the scene of an accident. No court information was available.

Alleged tray thief is caught Samer A. Abedhadi, 26, of the 9100 block of South Harlem Avenue, Bridgeview, was charged with theft for allegedly stealing 55 plastic soft-drink trays from outside Jewel, 9424 S. Pulaski Road, at 9:48 p.m. Dec. 7. Police

said a passerby reported seeing him placing the trays in his truck, and when he was stopped at 103rd and Cicero Avenue, as many as 1,500 similar trays taken from stores outside the village were found in the back of his truck.

He is due in court on Jan. 7.

Would-be hitchhiker found with drugs James T. Lonergan, 22, of the 4800 block of West 91st Avenue, Oak Lawn, was charged with possession of a controlled substance after police responding to a report of suspicious activity found him walking in the median in the 5700 block of West 103rd Street at 12:59 p.m. Dec. 7.

Police said he told them he was asking motorists for rides.

He was found in possession of prescription medication strips. He was also cited for soliciting rides in roadway. Court information was not available.

Palos Hills Order of protection violated Wesam A. Jalal, 4, of Palos Hills, was charged with violating an order of protection on Dec. 7 after he allegedly went to the home of a person protected by the order in the 10500 block of Vicki Lane.

License charges filed Donita McFadden, 37, of Chicago, was charged with driving on a suspended license, illegal use of a driver’s license and other traffic offenses when she was stopped in the 11100 block of Southwest Highway on Dec. 9.

Charged with domestic battery • Sula W. Abu Saed, 31, of Chicago Ridge, was charged with domestic battery on Sunday in the 8500 block of West 103rd Street.

Police said a man told them she struck him while dropping off their children.

• Tadeusz Szatko, 58, of Palos Hills, was charged with domestic battery and resisting arrest following an incident on Sunday in which he allegedly pushed a woman down, causing her to fall and hit a table.

Thefts being investigated • Police are investigating the theft of part of a street sweeper in the 10300 block of South Roberts Road that was reported on Dec 8. The part is valued at $6,000.

• Police are investigating the Dec. 8 theft of copper wire worth $1,600 from a site in the 9900 block of South 87th Avenue.

Damage to a fence that occurred at the same tim e will cost $500 to repair, police said.

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

Area police departments Chicago Ridge Evergreen Park Hickory Hills Oak Lawn Palos Hills Worth

425-7831 422--2142 598-4900 499-7722 598-2272 448-3979

Thursday, December 17, 2015

The Reporter

WORTH

Students can succeed without federal interference

Medical marijuana dispensary license OK’d

S

ometimes what appears to be a great idea results in disappointment. I was thinking about that this week with the revision of the No Child Left Behind Act of 2002.

At the time President George W. Bush signed that bill and championed its goals, it appeared to me that it had merit. The bill would place an emphasis on educators to improve the scores of grade school and high school students. After a certain time period elapsed, these educators and schools would be penalized if these students did not see improvement.

Essentially, that was the basis of the No Child Left Behind Act. The idea was to reach every child and bring their ranking up to their potential. On the surface, that all sounds great. Hold educators accountable if students are not performing up to certain standards.

The bill had the majority of support in Congress.

Joe The No Child Left Behind Act Boyle had its basis in the fact that many American students were ranking behind other nations in math and science. The belief was that the new law would make certain that these educators would be required to better prepare students in these subjects and in their classes overall.

Again, it sounded good in theory but the priorities behind the law became distorted over the years.

The pressure for students to excel in testing under the Common Core college- and career-ready curriculum guidelines became excessive. In some instances, teachers and administrators were changing grades to reach a certain standard. If some schools did not reach their goals, it could result in less funding, along with disciplinary measures.

With bipartisan support, the Senate on Dec. 9 voted 85-12 to approve legislation to rewrite the No Child Left Behind Act. President Obama signed the rewritten bill that will return power to states and local school districts to improve troubled schools. The bill still will preserve federally mandated standardized testing, but without the penalties for states and districts that perform poorly.

The new version is called the Every Student Succeeds Act. The bill also prevents the government from certain requirements like the Common Core.

The problem was that more affluent schools districts and achieving students were reaching the goals of the No Child Left Behind Act. But struggling school districts and underperforming students were under excessive pressure to test better. There was such an emphasis on testing that some administrators, teachers and students lost sight of learning. Students were just memorizing how to best perform for these required tests.

While students from all walks of life will be better equipped to deal with a more technological world with improved math and science skills, not everyone is alike. While tests and quizzes are a barometer for learning, it’s not the only way to rate a student’s intelligence. Math and science scores need to improve in U.S. classes. But not everyone is going to excel in these subjects. To apply the same standard to everyone will result in some students withdrawing.

Not all students who score well in math and science perform as well in English. Reading skills are of vital importance for students. The goal of teachers is to get the best out of each student. Memorizing federallymandated exams are not the answer.

Some of the complaints I heard about students in the early 2000s is that they were lazy or that many teachers were unqualified. I believe there are excellent teachers out there, while there is a minority that do not push themselves. But from what I have seen, most teachers are dedicated and put in long hours to help students. So, I never bought into the fact that there are too many bad teachers.

I recall reading that students who were failing in math and science have to be in school longer and recess is not necessary. They should be learning, not playing, the critics of modern education insisted.

Some private schools did not have designated recesses.

However, many of them do. We have since learned that there is a definite correlation between exercise and education.

Obesity has risen among students in this century.

While poverty and ignorance are often the culprits, having students sitting at desks all morning and afternoon is not conducive to learning. Play time for kids will actually help stimulate learning.

I believe the new law will be beneficial. Instead of grouping kids like cattle and making them learn under one standard, let’s reach all students. Kids, like adults, are not all the same. Let’s allow them to reach their potential and not prescribe to a federally-mandated standard.

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

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By Sharon L. Filkins

Greetings from the president

Supplied photo

Palos Hills historian Don C. White exchanges hats and greetings with Abraham Lincoln, also known as Max Daniels, during a visit to Dollinger Farms in Channahon for a Civil War reenactment.

White, who contributes occasional columns to The Reporter, has an avid interest in the Civil War.

Chicago Ridge approves 2016 budget and tax levy

By Dermot Connolly Finances were the focus of the Chicago Ridge Village Board meeting on Tuesday, where the 2016 budget and tax levy were approved following a hearing.

The board managed to hold the line on expenses, approving a 2016 tax levy of $6,455,621, which Mayor Chuck Tokar noted was $19,096 less than the 2015 levy. The corporate fund for the coming year is $13.3 million.

“We’re using 50 percent of our levy for pensions,” he added, pointing out that payments into the police and fire department pensions account for 49.2 percent of the levy.

The mayor said the board’s decision this year to keep fire department staffing levels at 13 full-time firefighters, while expanding the part-time firefighter program, would be beneficial in future years.

“This will allow us to at least hold the line (on pension contributions). I think it is the best we can do,” Tokar said.

In March, the village reopened a longshuttered firehouse at 10658 Lombard Ave. It is currently open 12 hours a day and is staffed by part-time firefighters. Many of them volunteered their time to do the rehab work necessary to get the building up and running again.

The issue of why funding for the Chicago Ridge Public Library comes out of the village’s tax levy, rather than having its own, also was a topic of discussion.

If the library’s expenses were not included, the village’s tax levy this year would have been $5.052,417.

“We have absolutely no control over the library. We need to hold them accountable,” said Trustee Bill McFarland, explaining that the library board just submits a budget, which is then added to the village’s tax levy.

Trustee Bruce Quintos suggested that trustees hold a joint meeting or workshop to discuss the issue and look into how the library could set up its own tax levy, as many libraries already do.

“I’d like to see that done as quickly as possible,” said Quintos.

Tokar said that while separating the library from the village’s tax levy might not save residents money, since it would just be funded separately, “At least they would know where

their money is going.”

“I’d like to see the pros and cons of how this might affect the library,” said Trustee Sally Durkin.

“There are pros and cons to everything,” Quintos responded.

When both the budget and levy came up for a vote, Durkin abstained, while the other five trustees voted yes.

“I just did not have enough time to go through everything,” said Durkin. She said she missed one of the budget hearings due to work, and the trustees received copies of the budget on Friday.

“I made notes and then there were changes being made even today (at the hearing),” she pointed out.

In other business, the board approved liquor and video gaming licenses for a new video gaming cafe, to be called Vanna’s USA, at 10135 S. Harlem Ave. The owner, Vince DiNovo, owns 115 Bourbon Street, a popular entertainment complex in Merrionette Park. He said he plans to open several more similar cafes in the southwest suburbs. Unlike most other video cafes, this one will serve Polish food, DiNovo said, noting that his wife has connections with the Polish community.

The board recently rejected a proposal for a video gaming café on Ridgeland Avenue, and Trustees Amanda Cardin and Fran Coglianese suggested that there needs to be a limit on them in the village. But most of the board members agreed that unlike the case on Ridgeland, DiNovo’s café, located on the edge of the village, would not be close to any schools or other similar venues.

It is official. A business license for a medical marijuana dispensary, Windy City Cannabis, located at 11425 S. Harlem Ave., was approved unanimously at Tuesday night’s Village Board Meeting in Worth.

The facility is expected to be open by late January.

The Village’s Economic Development Commission recommended the license approval contingent upon all inspections being completed and in compliance with all village codes and ordinances.

The Worth location is to be the fourth facility to be opened by Windy City Cannabis. The other locations are in Homewood, Posen and Justice.

A company representative at the meeting issued an invitation to the board or any interested residents to attend an open house at the Homewood Facility on Saturday, Dec. 19. “It will be the last time any non-medical person can enter the facilities,” he said.

Trustee Peter Kats asked if any Worth residents would be hired at the new facility. “This was promised to us when your company made a presentation to our board,” Kats said.

The representative replied that two Worth residents had been interviewed and both were offered a position. “So far, we have only had one acceptance of the offer,” he said.

In the public comments portion of the meeting, resident Jack McGrath asked what the village hoped to gain from the approval of this new business.

Mayor Mary Werner replied that the facility would possibly be drawing people who have never been to Worth.

“It is our hope that this will be a boon for our businesses,” Werner said. “Hopefully, people coming to the dispensary will eat in our restaurants, shop, buy gas, etc. We believe this business will be a true blessing to the people who really need it as well as a boost to our business climate.”

Also approved was an ordinance amendment calling for a three percent increase in the village’s water rate.

The rate increase, per 1,000 gallons of water used by consumers, is: for all business or commercial uses, $7.93 in 2016 (an increase from $7.70 in 2015); for all uses not otherwise provided including residential uses, $7.87 (an increase from $7.64 in 2015); and for churches, schools and nonprofit institutions, $7.34 (an increase from $7.13 in 2015).

The ordinance states that the rate increase supports the village’s efforts to provide necessary services to its residents and businesses and to promote public health, safety and welfare.

Other board action included an approval of an ordinance levying taxes for all corporate purposes for the village for the fiscal year commencing on May 1, 2016 and ending on April 30, 2017; and approval of a seven-year cable franchise agreement with Comcast.

A business license was approved for Mobile 1, a cellphone retail and repair shop at 10730 S. Harlem.

The mayor also announced that the village had entered a two-year agreement with Clear Channel Outdoor Advertising for free advertising on its digital display on the west side of the I-294 Tri-State Tollway, 150 feet south of 107th Street.

Village Clerk Bonnie Price announced that 30 recruits from the Great Lakes Naval Base will be arriving at the Marrs-Meyer American Legion Hall for dinner on Christmas Day. She invited residents to line the street leading to the Hall (Depot Avenue) to welcome them to Worth. For further information, contact the Village Hall at (708) 448-1181.

CHICAGO RIDGE

Thursday, December 17, 2015

Our Neighborhood

Supplied photos

Marist students display just a few of the more than 5,000 food items collected during the three-week drive.

The Reporter

4

Marist administrators got into the fun of The Hunger Games-themed food collection and rally. They surprised the student body by entering the pep rally dressed as characters from the book and movie series. Taking part were (from left) Joe Inzinga, Class of ‘77, academic dean of underclassmen, as Plutarch Heavensbee; Kelly. Mulcahy, academic dean of upperclassmen, as President Alma Coin; President Br. Hank Hammer, as President Snow; Beth O’Neill, dean of upperclassmen, as Effie Trinket; Principal Larry Tucker, ‘79, as Seneca Crane; Pat Hogan,’05, recruiter, as Caesar Flickerman; and Don Pirkle,’77, dean of underclassmen, as Haymitch Abernathy.

Marist teams up for ‘Hunger Games’ food drive Students at Marist High School collected more than 5,000 items for the Thanksgiving food drive. The food and toiletries were given to Chicago Veterans, St. Terrence food pantry, and Little Sisters of the Poor.

During the three-week drive sponsored by the school’s service club, Marist Youth, there were several hunger-related events. All students attended an assembly about hunger, and representatives from the receiving charities spoke about the need for donations.

Students prepared and distributed food and necessities to those in need in Robbins. Photography students created images of hunger.

Other students delivered survival kits to the homeless downtown, while others gathered for a prayer service focusing on those facing

food insecurity. The library also showcased books on hunger and related novels.

The collection was themed around “The Hunger Games” book and movie series. The halls were decorated with elements from books and movies. Each class competed as a “district” to bring in the most items. The winning class, the seniors, was rewarded with a dress-down day. Students also earned the opportunity to be in the lottery, called a “reaping” in the books, by bringing in items.

Those picked from the reaping competed in front of the whole school at a rally on Nov. 21. The competing students and faculty members took part in a series of elimination games that tested their speed, agility and accuracy.

The students were shocked to find out the judges for the rally were the characters from “The Hunger Games”. Marist administrators dressed up as the main characters from the book series to oversee the competition.

“It was amazing to see so many facets of the school come together,” said campus minister Patrick Meyer, Class of 2010. “This was the most successful drive in quite a while, and it was great for the students to see that doing good and having fun can happen at the same time.”

Marist Youth members are now working on the Christmas gift drive for residents of Robbins and a school on the west side of Chicago.

State Rep. Hurley hosts ‘Giving Tree’ to benefit Park Lawn Center State Rep. Fran Hurley (D-35th) is encouraging residents to help make the holiday special for resident of the Park Lawn Center in Oak Lawn by participating in her “Giving Tree.”

Park Lawn is a non-profit organization in Illinois offering various programs and opportunities for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Their mission is to provide services that promote independence and helps them have access

to community living.

Anyone can participate in Hurley’s Giving Tree by stopping by her district office, 10400 W. Western Ave., Chicago, during normal business hours and taking an ornament from the tree. The ornament will include the name and a suggested gift for a resident at the Park Lawn facility. Return the gift to Hurley’s office before Monday, Dec. 21 and it will be delivered to the facility in time for Christmas.

“A few additional dollars in your holiday gift budget could mean the world to a resident at the Park Lawn Center this Christmas,” Hurley said. “Please stop by my office and join me in helping make Christmas very special for a few of our neighbors at Park Lawn.”

For more information on the Giving Tree or any state issue, contact Hurley’s constituent service office at (773) 445-8128 or repfranhurley@gmail.com

Advocate associate provides presents, cheer for young patients For the seventh year consecutive year, Jessie Tendayi, a cafeteria worker at Advocate Trinity Hospital, made a difference in the lives of many young patients on Monday when she donated hundreds of gifts to Advocate Children’s Hospital in Oak Lawn.

“I so enjoy bringing any kind of happiness to kids. When you see their faces light up after getting just one toy, you can see how grateful they are and it just makes me smile and cry all at the same time. This is something I love doing every year and it keeps getting bigger and bigger,” Tendayi said.

Two years ago, Tendayi was surprised on

ABC’s Windy City Live show with $3,300 worth of toys to distribute to Advocate Children’s Hospital patients. Tendayi was selected to be on the show after producers learned of her generosity over the years.

“Jessie is such a wonderful person who has always been so selfless,” said Michelle GaskillHames, Advocate Trinity Hospital president.

“You can tell that she looks forward to this time every year. The fact that she takes money from each paycheck from the beginning of the year just to make children happy at the end of the year makes her a remarkable woman.

We love Jessie and we know the children are

5th Annual Holiday Princess Ball held at Oak Lawn Children’s Museum The Children’s Museum in Oak Lawn kicked off its December programming Saturday with its 5th Annual Holiday Princess Ball.

Over 50 girls and their fathers participated. The girls met Cinderella, Prince Charming, the Fairy Godmother, and the wicked stepsisters, Drizella and Anastasia. There was dancing, a queen’s buffet, craft and horsedrawn carriage rides.

“It’s truly a magical event for most of the girls,” said Adam Woodworth, the museum’s executive director. “I dare say it is magical for most fathers, too.”

The museum has an initiative, as part of this event, called the Special Princess Initiative.

“The Special Princess Initiative started with our very first Princess Ball,” said Woodworth.

“We had a couple of donors who came forward and said, ‘We’d like to sponsor a girl and her father to attend the ball, along with purchase the girl’s dress and shoes.’

I started reaching out to schools and other nonprofit organizations with the goal of finding families who would not normally be able to attend. This year we received enough donations to fully fund eight princesses complete with two tickets to the ball, a dress, shoes and accessories.”

Another program scheduled for December includes a Noon Year’s Eve party on Dec. 31. Information about the event can be found on the museum’s website at www. cmoaklawn.org.

excited to see her every year.”

Tendayi’s generosity won’t just stop in Oak Lawn. She will travel to Advocate Children’s Hospital’s Park Ridge campus immediately after her visit in Oak Lawn to distribute gifts to more pediatric patients.

“Advocate Children’s Hospital is incredibly grateful for everything Jessie has done and continues to do for our young patients. She has brought smiles and holiday cheer to hundreds of children and their family members,” said Mike Farrell, Advocate Children’s Hospital president. “Her generosity continues to amaze our staff every year.”

Compiled by Joe Boyle News and events from our archives Hickory Hills trustee is removed from office • 50 years ago

From the Dec. 16, 1965 issue The story: The usually vocal audience that attends Hickory Hills City Council meetings

sat in stunned silence on Dec. 9 as Trustee James Rooney was removed from office by the tie-breaking vote of Mayor Alphonese Petkiewicz.

The board voted to replace Rooney with Joseph Karpowicz, who authored a petition in June charging “wholesale vote fraud.”

Rooney had defeated Karpowicz, the only Better Government Party candidate who failed to attain office by one vote in April, 1,062 to 1,061. A torn ballot resulted in Rooney’s dismissal.

Worth resident would like to concentrate on his passion for art • 25 years ago

From the Dec. 13, 1990 issue The story: Worth resident Rick Goldschmidt works in sales at Sportmart, teaches art parttime, hangs in a band and draws cartoons for The Reporter newspaper.

Goldschmidt has set his sights on becoming a full-time cartoonist. His artistry ranges from comic book heroes and animation. At Columbia College, he was encouraged to get into animation by Gordon Sheehan, whose work includes the Betty Boop and black and white cartoons of Popeye.

The quote: “This is a hard field to get into,” said Goldschmidt. “It really is. People will tell you that and you think, ‘Well, there are always exceptions.’ But it is tough.”

Former Oak Lawn resident gets speaking role in movie • 10 years ago

From the Dec. 15, 2005 issue The story: Former Oak Lawn resident Kevin Suscavage has a speaking role in an indepen-

dent film called “All That I Need.” Suscavage, an Illinois State University graduate, also tried pottery, painting and photography.

Suscavage has taught math classes part-time at Moraine Valley Community College. In the fall of 2003, he moved to Los Angeles to become an actor. That same year he was on the TV show “National Lampoon’s Master Debators.”

The next film he will be in is called “Insanity.” Suscavage will portray a forensic doctor.

5 The Reporter

Thursday, December 17, 2015

Hickory Hills debates vehicle sticker fees, welcomes new employees

By Sharon L. Filkins The Hickory Hills City Council debated an increase in the commercial vehicle sticker fees, and welcomed new officials while bidding farewell to others during the meeting held last Thursday.

The council approved a $50 increase in all commercial vehicle sticker fees with a vote of 4-2.

Voting against the increase were Alderman John Szeszycki (3rd) and Mike McHugh (1st). Two aldermen were absent from the meeting, Debbie Ferrero (2nd) and Joe Stachnik (3rd). Village Clerk Dee Catizone said it is the first increase in the fees in 16 years.

Szeszycki said later that he voted against the increase because there had been no discussion on it. “At our last meeting on Nov. 12, we agreed it would be on the agenda for tonight’s meeting for discussion. I voted ‘No’ because there was no discussion, it was just presented for approval.”

After a lengthy discussion on the issue of water meter replacements and installation of smart readers and whether or not to hire an outside contractor for

installation, the council voted to continue replacing the meters for the time being and also installing the smart readers. As for hiring an outside contractor, it was determined that the public works department would continue doing it, as they have been, until budget discussions for the next fiscal year begin in May, 2016.

“We need to get the meters in and the sooner, the better,” said Hickory Hills Mayor Mike Howley. “We have done this before based on the experience of our Public Works Director Larry Boettcher. I don’t see why this should be an issue now.”

Village Treasurer Dan Schramm agreed. “We can get the Readers in and then discuss a five-year plan when we begin our budget discussions next May.” The estimated cost for replacement of all water meters in the village and installation of the Readers is $1.4 million.

Schramm stated that the Meter Readers allows for a computerized reading of water usage, eliminating the need for it to be done manually. “The meters can be read from the street or vantage points throughout the city,” Sch-

Photo by Sharon L. Filkins

New Hickory Hills police officer Peter Trzeciak has his badge of office placed on his uniform by his wife, Theresa, during the city council meeting last Thursday.

ramm said.

The council meeting was also filled with comings and goings as council members welcomed a new police officer, bid farewell to a long-term member of the police commission, and approved a new hire for the public works department.

Taking the oath of office to serve Hickory Hills as a patrol

officer was Peter Trzeciak, 32.

Police Chief Al Vodicka introduced him with a report on his previous experience including serving more than two years with the Cook County Sheriff’s Office. Vodicka said he is a graduate of the Chicago Police Academy and served as valedictorian of his graduating class.

“That is quite an achievement in

itself,” said Vodicka. Trzeciak also holds a BA degree in Sociology from Northern Illinois University.

He will be on duty officially as of Jan. 1, said Vodicka.

Trzeciak was accompanied by his parents, Peter and Theresa Trzeciak, and his wife, Theresa.

Vodicka called Theresa to the podium announcing that it is the custom of his department to have the wife of newly sworn officers to place the badge of office on their husband’s uniform.

Administrating the oath of office was Police Commissioner Robert Runowski, who has served as a commissioner for 18 years.

As it turned out, the ceremony marked Runowski’s last official act as a commissioner.

Following the swearing-in, Vodicka asked Runowski to remain at the podium.

“As some of you know, Commissioner Runowski has announced that he is retiring from the Police Commission. I think it is only appropriate that we honor him tonight for his years of service,” said Vodicka.

Presenting him with a plaque of appreciation, Vodicka said, “Eighteen officers have been hired dur-

ing his tenure, a number of who are still on the force. Runowski’s commitment and dedication to the city have been outstanding. He is going to be tremendously missed.”

Vodicka then read the name of each officer who had been hired and influenced by Runowski. The council responded with a standing ovation.

In other action, the council approved a request from Boettcher to approve the hiring of applicant Mark Hernandez. Boettcher said Hernandez has 15 years experience as a journeyman electrician in Blue Island and was highly recommended by the public works director there.

“Mr. Hernandez is looking to expand his career opportunities,” said Boettcher. He is scheduled to begin his employment on Jan. 8.

In other business, Schramm said that the state would be releasing the past due $388,000 owed to the city. Included in that figure is the motor fuel tax, which the city should receive $150,000; the video gaming fee of $110,000; local use tax fee of $100,000; and the 911 fee of $28,000. The payments should be completed by the end of December.

Visit Quebec City via spring class at Moraine A one-credit course will be offered this spring by Moraine Valley Community College that will take participants to Quebec City, Canada, from April 29 to May 2.

Québec City is one of North America’s most European cities as well as an UNESCO world heritage site. Participants will explore the 400-year-old metropolis on a walking tour, visit Québec’s Parliament and have lunch in the senator’s dining room, visit Montmorency Falls, sample bread from Chez Marie’s roadside bread oven, and stay at the Château

Photo by Dermot Connolly

Helpful Elves

Sarah Garlic (left) and Ashley Llenos pause for a photo in their elf costumes before heading off on their first Toys for Tots parade down Western Avenue on Dec. 6.

Oak Lawn High students get taste of colonial life during field trip Thirty-five students from Oak Lawn Community High School attended a historical reenanctment of colonial life last month, despite eight inches of snow and chilly weather.

The students, under the direction of Social Studies teacher Phyllis Dickinson, attended the event as part of an extra credit project. Staff and volunteers at the San Ridge Nature Center in South Holland complimented the teacher and the students for attending despite the chill and snow.

Students participated in varied activities such as the “wagon train”, the Oregon Trail without the computer. Guides for that activity commented on how much attention the students paid and how interested they were.

Jim Carpenter, the director and head naturalist at Sand Ridge, also complimented the students for their behavior and interest.

Several of the volunteers, including the Revolutionary War reenactors with their regalia and camp life, were impressed with the wealth of knowledge the students brought to the experience and the connections they made between the different reenactments.

“They were spectacular Spartans,” said Dickinson.

Find us on the Web at TheReporterOnline.net

Supplied photo

Oak Lawn Community High School student Emma Palhegyi joins Continental soldier Bernard Kazwick (left) and British Soldier (84th Scottish Regiment) Tim Gora for a Revolutionary War reenactment at the Sand Ridge Nature Center in South Holland.

Frontenac.

To earn the class credit, students are required to attend three meetings on Moraine Valley’s campus prior to the trip and complete a field activity in Canada.

Participants need a valid passport to travel. The total cost is $1,885, plus tuition and fees, and includes airfare, most meals, hotel, shuttle to and from the airport, visits to museums, and tours.

To secure a spot or for more information, contact Mary Beth Walsh at walsh@morainevalley. edu or (708) 974-5569.

COMMENTARY

Thursday, December 17, 2015

THE

The Reporter

6

REPORTER

An Independent Newspaper Amy Richards Publisher

Joe Boyle Editor

Ray Hanania

Published Weekly Founded March, 16, 1960

Trump will be the undoing of extremist right

Madigan speaks, but state budget impasse continues

W

hile many mass media types on TV and some daily newspapers are ecstatic that House Speaker Michael Madigan (D-22nd) spoke during a City Club of Chicago meeting on Dec. 9, we believe any action on the budget impasse will take more than idle words.

Madigan grabbed headlines when he mentioned at the meeting that bringing the state income tax back up to five percent should occur seemed to draw grasps from the large crowd. The fact that Madigan would approve a state income tax hike is hardly surprising.

The House Speaker is often criticized by the press, especially the Chicago Tribune, which puts the blame for the budget mess squarely on Madigan’s shoulders. While Madigan often appears to be concerned about his concentration of power, it is too simplistic to blame him for the faults of past governors Pat Quinn, Rod Blagojevich and George Ryan.

At least Madigan said something. Essentially he said that he would like to see the five percent state income tax reinstated and negotiations can begin there. Gov. Rauner has been persistent in his insistence that no negotiations can take place until reforms are made on union wages. Such reforms, according to Rauner, will allow businesses to be more competitive.

Critics say it will reduce the bargaining power of unions and would result in lower wages for employees. That hardly seems to be a recipe for improving the working conditions of the middle class and the working poor.

However, despite all that, we believe there is room for negotiations. We also believe that Madigan and Rauner need to compromise on certain issues to get something done.

Our concern right now is for the mayors of the municipalities in our coverage area. The local mayors did receive a Christmas gift of sorts when Rauner signed a bill that will allow the release of $3.1 billion in funds that had been put on hold since July when no budget was reached.

However, as the mayors have pointed out, the money from the motor fuel tax, 911 funds and video gaming revenue was held hostage. Palos Hills Mayor Gerald Bennett, president of the Southwest Conference of Mayors, said MFT, 911 and video gaming funds have nothing to do with the budget. Chicago Ridge Mayor Chuck Tokar was in complete agreement, often stating that the budget impasse was “crazy.”

The mayors are pleased that there is some progress. But they remain skeptical, and they have a right to be. When Rauner proposed short-term loans to municipalities to provide MFT, 911 and video gaming revenue, the mayors had enough. The Southwest Conference of Mayors opposed Rauner’s proposal. More bad press followed for the governor.

We believe that it was due to that opposition that Rauner and the Senate finally did the right thing. Tokar has since put in a call to State Comptroller Leslie Munger to find out when these funds will be released. The funds should be coming by sometime in January.

While the mayors are relieved that the funds will be released, this is not a time for celebration. While these funds affected southwest suburban municipalities, Bennett correctly noted that the holdup of these funds affected 1,300 cities and villages throughout the state.

So, what is next? The mayors will still have to manage their budgets conservatively. While it will be great to receive funds for street and road repairs, a budget is far from worked out. The mild December weather has helped, but that will eventually change.

The mayors are doing their part. It is our legislators who will eventually have to get to work.

We believe that no matter what the weather conditions are, it will be a long winter.

Help provide meals for families and gifts for kids During this time of the year we are encouraged to help provide for those who are in need. We have been told that it is better to give than receive. However, it is not always easy for us to follow that example.

And that is why we salute Sandi DiGangi, owner of Big Pappa’s Gyros in Oak Lawn, who will be holding her sixth annual Christmas Dinner to feed the needy and working poor. The event grows larger every year, DiGangi said. We don’t if that is a good thing. But that is the reality for many residents who are a little down on their luck.

The Chicago area and the nation as a whole have gone through a lot of changes in the past 15 years. Many jobs have been downsized or have been eliminated altogether. Many of your neighbors have been laid off and are struggling to make ends meet. They are often working for much less than in the past. That could also mean working a couple of part-time jobs.

So, when DiGangi opens her doors on Christmas Day to feed the poor and the working poor, she will see people from many walks of life. It is just not the destitute and the homeless who come in for a meal. Residents and people from many miles away gather at her restaurant.

At least for one day, these people and their families will have smiles on their faces. DiGangi also provides toys for kids who come to her restaurant on Christmas. She explains to kids that Santa can’t make it to everyone’s home, but a present will be waiting for them at Big Pappa’s.

We all should consider those who are suffering at this time of the year. We should do what we can to help. Proving some change for Salvation Army bell ringers is a start.

DiGangi continues her charity even when she has experienced personal tragedy. In last week’s The Reporter, it was noted that the death of her mother-in-law on Thanksgiving Day would not prevent her from bringing 90 Thanksgiving meals to homebound seniors in Oak Lawn.

She expects to feed at least 3,200 families on Christmas. They will receive a traditional home-cooked holiday meal of turkey and all the trimmings. The children will receive the presents. When she first began the tradition, she served 750 meals at her restaurant at 10806 S. Cicero Ave. Last year, according to last week’s story by Dermot Connolly, they went through 236 turkeys.

But DiGangi will be doing it again with the help of her kids, whom she said have inherited her call to help others. DiGangi was ill this past year and was even misdiagnosed with throat cancer.

She was hospitalized twice and considered selling the business.

She managed to survive her ordeal and will continue to serve free meals on Christmas for as long as she can.

Times are tough for many of us. That includes DiGangi, who battled through illnesses during the year. This did not allow her enough time to seek gift and monetary donations. This is where many of us can help. Residents and businesses who would like to help in some way should visit www.gofundme.com/bigpappasxmas/ We believe there are many worthy charitable organizations that local businesses and resident can give to. But keep Big Pappa’s in mind. Providing a good meal and a gift for a youngster can go a long way to make the season a little brighter.

M One year later, and life is great

By Don C. White Many of you will remember my article “My best Christmas ever” from December of last year. I had open heart surgery that October and was still in recovery stage. By late November I was back to work at Ace and Helen and I were able to resume our volunteering at Hines Veterans Hospital.

Being able to write again for The Reporter was great therapy for me. And, yes, it was my best Christmas ever — no doubt about it.

Hines wanted me to take part in their heart therapy program, two to three days per week for 10 weeks, but this would have started in January. I opted to do it at home riding a stationary bike. Hines gave me a plan and I am happy to say that once I was able to start on the bike, I have been doing very well. Just about every other day I am doing six miles in 30 minutes.

This past year Helen and I have been able to do many things with our grandsons, Nikola and Samuel. Both of them are in school bands so we have attended their concerts and enjoyed them very much.

Other things, such as movies, overnights at our house, a trip downtown with a stay at a dear friend’s condo made it a great year. That trip to Chicago was to cheer on our son, David, their father, who was taking part in the two-day 39 mile walk for cancer.

Our older son, D.J., and his family came for a visit in July and it was fun to have most of the family together. Granddaughter Athena was not able to be with us. Then in October we were able to visit with D.J. when he was in town for the Police Chiefs’ convention at McCormick Place. One of his jobs while working the convention was to escort dignitaries and speakers onto the stage.

He escorted President Obama to the stage, where he gave his speech to the attendees. That was quite an honor for President Obama to be escorted by our son.

Only joking, it was the other way around as it was an honor for our son, a former navy submariner, to escort the commanderin-chief.

In October we were able to go to Dollinger Farm, a pumpkin farm that has a Civil War reenactment on the third weekend of the month, where we visited with Mr. and Mrs. Abraham Lincoln, AKA Max and Donna Daniels. Our grandsons have known them for many years and fondly

call Mr. Lincoln, Uncle Lincoln. This year Nikola’s girlfriend, Freda, came along with us. She had been anxious to meet the Lincolns.

There was another setback for me in August of this year as I had a biopsy of a mole on my back. It was stage 2-A melanoma. It was deep enough that the doctors at Hines wanted it removed and I agreed.

On Aug. 5, it was removed and three lymph nodes were also checked. All turned out well for me as the melanoma had not spread too much and it was not too deep.

So, I did not have to do any kind of followup treatment. I continue to be blessed and looked after from above. With Helen and Hines on my team, what more could I ask.

So, yes, as this year draws to a close, it has been another great one for me. I have been able to continue a normal life and spend quality time with my wonderful family. Also, I am trying to keep my promise to Samuel to be here with him as long as possible. From talking with customers at Ace and my buddies at Hines, I know more than ever how important each day we have here on Earth is. I try not to waste a minute of time as I know for me the hour glass is running down — faster than I would like — but that too is part of life’s adventure..

Talking about time passing so quickly, I just want to share a story about Helen and me. On Dec. 13 of this year, we celebrated the 60th anniversary of our first date. After Helen got off work we went to Steak-‘n Shake in Peoria. It seems like only yesterday.

That Christmas, too, was special. In case you ask, my advice would be to reach out and touch someone — a long lost friend, a former classmate, a former teacher, a former co-worker or just take the time to make a new friend. As I talk with people from all walks of life. When I say goodbye, many of them tell me that I made their day. That is not always my intention – but it makes me feel good when we parted to know that in some small way I made a difference. You can, too.

As we journey through another Christmas season and look forward to the New Year, please be safe, be happy, be healthy and most of all, be kind to one another.

I wish all of you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

Don C. White is a Palos Hills historian who occasionally has some comments on current events.

Obama needs more than speeches to silence ISIS

By Glenn Mollette “All is calm and all is bright?” Few Americans are singing Silent Night this week in America.

If President Obama wants to shut down ISIS he must doing the following: First, let me say I do agree with Obama in that we must not send thousands of soldiers to Syria. This would end up costing us thousands of lives and another trillion dollars that we do not have. However we can do the following: • Communication/media must be shutdown. Americans are guaranteed freedom of speech but not ISIS. We must do everything we can to take out their ability to communicate. This means cellphones and Internet access. Can we not figure this out? Any social media corporation that has ties to America or any segment of the free world must help with this. ISIS promotes, taunts and recruits via online propaganda.

We have to stop this.

• All means of making money has to cease. Bomb oil refineries controlled by ISIS. Put them out of commission. ISIS has millions and millions of dollars at their disposal.

• Shut down their travel means. Take out their major bridges, destroy their highways and airports. Take out all sources of food supply.

• Work strategically with Russia, France, England and Germany. However, the Middle East countries must get on board with manpower and cash to support this effort. Where is worthless Saudi Arabia? By the way, Saudi Arabia does not even want the Syrian refugees in their country. They would rather send them to Germany or America!

We further need to get control of the visas that are being issued to anybody and everybody. People from all over the world can get a visa to America for

almost any excuse. This must tighten up drastically.

Guns are still not the problem. The San Bernardino couple had a bomb factory in their garage. They could eventually have killed dozens or hundreds with bombs.

Does anybody remember April 19, 1995?

Timothy McVeigh killed 168 people and injured over 600 in Oklahoma City with a truck bomb. The radical Muslims of Sept.

11, 2001 took over airplanes that became catastrophic missiles killing almost 3,000 people.

Do you remember the Jonestown massacre? In 1978, 900 people were led to their deaths by the radical religious leader Jim Jones, who led some and forced many to drink the poisonous cyanide Kool-Aid. Jones’ henchmen guards did have guns.

However, most of the 900 died from cyanide poisoning. Radical religion was at the forefront of this massacre. Groups such as Jones’ People’s Temple and radical Muslim mosques are a danger to our society and must be monitored.

Speaking of religion, our president needs to call America together in prayer. We need a special day of prayer for this nation.

People are jittery. People are buying guns and ammunition as fast as they can be made.

Nothing could have been more frightening than the Civil War. Bloody killing was taking place all over this country. Americans were killing Americans. The 30th day of April 1863 was set aside by Abraham Lincoln as a day of fasting and prayer for this nation.

More and more our world needs a strong and wise America to step up and provide strong and wise leadership. Surely, we need the wisdom, help and power from almighty God to lead and calm this nation.

Glenn Mollette is a syndicated columnist and author. He is the author of 11 books.

any people on my Facebook page have been wondering why I could possibly be promoting Donald Trump for president.

I don’t support Trump. But I can’t stop myself from enjoying how Trump is singlehandedly exposing the damage President George W. Bush and Vice President Dick Cheney did to America immediately after the Sept. 11, 2001 terrorist attacks.

Before you go off on Trump’s racism and fanatic views, consider this: Trump has done to the Tea Party, the far right Conservative GOP, and Evangelical crazies what the Rule of Law, the U.S. Constitution and common sense have failed to do during the past 14 years.

Right-wing insanity has consumed this otherwise great country.

Bush, but mostly Cheney, drove this country to the ground with their illegal and irresponsible war in Iraq. They divided this nation with their corrupt distortion of “Patriotism” and “Terrorism” in declaring, “You are either with us or against us.”

No middle ground. No reason.

No common sense. Just pure, simple demagoguery.

Cheney’s right-wing political agenda undermined our democracy and continues to turn this country into the very terrorists we oppose, terrorists who trample civil rights in favor of tyranny.

We tortured prisoners in violation of everything that made this country great, just to satisfy anger and fear. It gave us no useable information.

Remember when we couldn’t even debate what was best for America in the years after Sept.

11? Anyone who dared question Cheney’s insanity was denounced as a “terrorist.”

Cheney should be prosecuted, not honored with a bust in Washington D.C. He is the terrorist’s best ally.

It’s fun, though, to watch Cheney’s right-wing crazies scream about how Trump is destroying their party. It’s already destroyed.

Trump is a racist but he is just the tip of the conservative iceberg that includes Ted Cruz, Mike Huckabee, Michelle Bachmann, Pamela Gellar, Lindsey Graham, Fox News and Roger Ailes.

Don’t forget Sean Hannity, Rush Limbaugh, Sarah Palin and Mike Savage. These people have kicked freedom and democracy down like neighborhood bullies. They shame the true spirit of Republicanism and leaders like John McCain, former President George H.W. Bush, Ronald Reagan and so many more.

Trump has peeled back the stinking GOP onion, which has put democracy, civil rights and the U.S. Constitution in a choking headlock. They are racist. They are xenophobes. They are demagogues.

They have no respect for the fundamentals that make this country great.

The Republican Party has been hijacked and turned into a bully pulpit for these vicious racist haters.

Trump’s insanity has pulled back the curtain so we can see their true face.

My father, a Christian Palestinian Arab, was a longtime Republican. Many Muslims and Arabs are Republican, too, because they share conservative family values.

But they don’t share the fanaticism that has hijacked today’s GOP. As a Reagan Democrat myself, I don’t want to see the old moderate and centrist Republican Party trampled by Tea Party crazies and radical “Christlamic” extremists rip our nation’s political system to shreds.

I promise you, though, if Trump makes it to the national Republican convention this summer, it will be one hell of a show no one will want to miss.

What the Democratic and Republican centrists have tried to do in returning America to reason and common sense with principle and righteousness, Trump will achieve through his insanity, exposing the true core of the conservative movement that Cheney and Bush helped build.

Ray Hanania is an award-winning former Chicago City Hall Reporter.

Reach him at rghanania@gmail. com.

7 The Reporter

Thursday, December 17, 2015

Frankincese and myrrh have redeeming qualities

F

or many years, I have been interested in the mystery and efficacy of frankincense and myrrh. I always had the feeling that aside from them being considered sacred oils used for perfume, there must be more to the resins than aroma and incense. That has been what both have largely been used for in Biblical times.

We read the Three Wise Men came to baby Jesus and presented him with frankincense and myrrh. It was not only presented to Jesus at His birth, but it was offered to Him as he was placed on the cross. It was mixed with wine, but Jesus refused it. We also know that both frankincense and myrrh were both used, along with types of aloes, for burial purposes as well as for offerings.

You may not know it, but frankincense has a botanical name of boswellia, a substance used in many alternative remedies for its anti-inflammatory properties. It has been used for emphysema as well as asthma, ulcerative colitis and arthritis. It was also used for wound healing and in some products it has been added for topical applications.

Now, this may sound strange, but most diseases have one common denominator — inflammation. For that reason, boswell-

Capuano

Continued from Page 1

neighborhood.

“It is very sad. They are a very faithful, very wonderful family,” she said.

LEGAL NOTICE IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT - CHANCERY DIVISION TCF NATIONAL BANK Plaintiff, -v.WILLIAM E. COFFEY III A/K/A WILLIAM E. COFFEY A/K/A WILLIAM COFFEY, LISA M. COFFEY A/K/A LISA MARIE COFFEY, UNKNOWN OWNERS AND NON-RECORD CLAIMANTS Defendants 14 CH 17159 8124 W. 91ST PLACE 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 May 5, 2015, an agent for The Judicial Sales Corporation, will at 10:30 AM on January 7, 2016, 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 22 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 8124 W. 91ST PLACE, Hickory Hills, IL 60457 Property Index No. 23-02-421-009-0000.

The real estate is improved with a single family residence.

The judgment amount was $307,187.98.

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 17159 TJSC#: 35-17513 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.

ia (frankincense) can be useful for many conditions caused by inflammation.

A study from Lund University in Lund, Sweden reports boswellic-acid contains anti-tumor, anti-cancer-proliferation properties and may be useful in the treatment of liver cancer. Of course, more studies need to be conducted but this ancient sacred resin is already used by alternative physicians for inflammatory disorders.

Some alternative remedies combine boswellia with curcumin to get even greater anti-inflammatory effect as well as providing pain relief.

Boswellia, or frankincense, also has been used in healing inflamed gums and is one of the ingredients in some natural mouthwashes.

Most recently, it has been used in antiwrinkle cosmetics products as well as being said to help eliminate age spots.

One of the other sacred resins in ad-

dition to frankincense and perfumes is myrrh, which is a bitter tree resin also found in the Middle East, India and parts of Africa. It has similar qualities as frankincense. Myrrh is presently being studied for its qualities in controlling blood sugar levels and in possible treatment of diabetes. It is also being studied for its use in stimulating thyroid function. While it is used for gingivitis and in an alternative mouthwash — along with frankincense — perhaps its effectiveness is due to its anti-microbial constituents.

You can mix frankincense and myrrh oil blends with lime, lemon, orange and other citrus oils, as well as bergamot, lavender and sandalwood oil for a special relaxing aromatherapy. Combine the aromatherapy with good, relaxing music and you have an unbeatable combination.

While we have learned about the many benefits of these amazing resins, the most important thing to remember is the birth of the One for whom this season exists. I refuse to say happy holidays. In my mind, those words betray the season.

May you all have a blessed Christmas.

Dee Woods can be reached at deewoods10@icloud.com

“Dan got his start with us,” said Palos Fire Chief James Graben. ”He went through our fire academy and EMT training here,” and stayed with the department for about eight years, he said.

“It’s devastating news for all of us,” said Graben, a 35-year veteran of the department who remembers working with Capuano himself. He noted that Capuano’s parents, Michael and Jacqueline Capuano, still live in Palos Park.

“We’re all affected by this tragic loss. A lot of our guys go on to other departments. Many who are here now also worked with him in Evergreen Park, too,” he explained. He noted that prior to

going to Evergreen Park, Capuano also worked for the Lemont Fire Department.

While there, Capuano was one of four paramedics credited with saving the life of a caddy on the 15th fairway Cog Hill Golf Course, using a portable defibrillator to restart the man’s heart.

In addition to his wife, children and parents, Capuano is survived by two brothers, one of whom lives in Palos Heights.

His wake is scheduled from 3 to 9 p.m. today (Thursday) at St. Rita High School Chapel, 7740 S. Western Ave., Chicago. The funeral will be there at 10 a.m. tomorrow, followed by interment

at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery.

Chicago Firefighters Union Local 2 and the Ende, Menzer, Walsh & Quinn Retirees’ Widows’ and Children’s Assistance Fund have established a memorial fund to benefit the family at BMO Harris Bank. The bank’s locations are accepting cash or check donations from customers and the general public.

Donations can also be mailed to: EMWQ Fund, Attn: Daniel V. Capuano Memorial Fund, 20 S. Clark St., Suite 1400, Chicago, IL, 60603. Checks should be made payable to: Daniel V. Capuano Memorial Fund. Donations are also accepted online.

No Child

“The Every Student Succeeds Act is a marked improvement over current law.”

Behind Act. “The Every Student Succeeds Act is a marked improvement over current law,” said Monel.

“The bill will ensure families are empowered to support their children’s learning and that all students receive a high-quality, well-rounded education that prepares them for long-term success.”

States will still face some federal requirements for struggling schools, especially those in the lower five percent. Those schools will be required to close those gaps. The difference is that the federal government will no longer dictate how that will be done.

And that is fine with Flowers.

“One Chicago principal once told me that he would rather have an average student who asks questions about these tests than someone who just memorizes the answers. It shows that student is thinking,” said Flowers. “We have to consider the whole student, not just these tests.”

Continued from Page 1

throughout the nation.

Flowers said that there was too much emphasis placed on specific testing that does not provide a grasp of a student’s potential.

While tutoring was supposed to be made available for struggling students in poorer districts, that did not happen, she said.

“The haves got richer and the have-nots did not,” said Flowers.

“A lot has changed since I was younger. Dads went off to war.

Now dads and moms and even grandmas are going off to war. A lot of families are impacted that

— Nathan R. Monel

are not from affluent districts.

That’s why I say the kids haven’t failed, it’s the adults who have failed them.”

The goal of No Child Left Behind was to provide a thorough learning environment to improve the math and science scores of American students who have been lacking behind other developed nations. Critics have pointed out that an over emphasis on testing continued to contribute LEGAL NOTICE to the problem. In some cases, IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, teachers and students became ILLINOIS obsessed with memorizing and COUNTY DEPARTMENT, CHANCERY DIVISION preparing for tests that actually U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, Plaintiff, detracted from learning. v.

Nathan R. Monel, national PTA ZEYAD HALEEM; U.S. BANK N.A.; RIVIERA executive director, welcomed REGAL UMBRELLA CONDOMINIUM ASSOchanges to the No Child Left CIATION; RIVIERA REGAL I CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION; UNKNOWN OCCUPANTS and UNKNOWN OWNERS AND NON-RECORD CLAIMANTS, Defendants.

Calendar 61 Case No.: 15-CH-15362 Property Address: 11125 S. 84TH Ave. #3B Palos Hills, Illinois 60465 NOTICE BY PUBLICATION NOTICE IS GIVEN TO YOU: ZEYAD HALEEM That this case has been commenced in this Court against you and other defendants, praying for the foreclosure of a certain Mortgage and Other Relief conveying the premises described as follows, to-wit: UNIT NUMBER 11125-3B IN RIVIERA REGAL CONDOMINIUM TOGETHER WITH ITS UNDIVIDED PERCENTAGE INTEREST IN THE COMMON ELEMENTS, AS DELINEATED AND DEFINED IN THE DECLARATION RECORDED AS DOCUMENT NUMBER 86-059069, OF THAT PART OF THE WEST 641.0 FEET OF THE NORTHEAST 1/4 OF SECTION 23, TOWNSHIP 37 NORTH, RANGE 12, EAST OF THE THIRD PRINCIPAL MERIDIAN DESCRIBED AS THE NORTH 700.00 FEET OF THE EAST 395.06 FEET, EXCEPT FROM THE ABOVE THE SOUTH 284.50 FEET OF THE NORTH 517.25 FEET OF THE WEST 215.00 FEET OF THE EAST 395.06 FEET OF THE WEST 641.00 FEET AFORESAID OF THE NORTHEAST ¼ OF SECTION 23, TOWNSHIP 37 NORTH, RANGE 12, EAST OF THE THIRD PRINCIPAL MERIDIAN, IN COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS. Commonly known as: 11125 S. 84th Ave., #3B, Palos Hills, Illinois 60465 PIN #: 23-23-200-026-1078 and which said Mortgage was made by: ZEYAD HALEEM (UNMARRIED), the Mortgagor(s), to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., solely as nominee for U.S. Bank N.A. and recorded in the Office of the Recorder of Deeds of Cook County, Illinois, on April 18, 2007, by the Cook County Recorder of Deeds; Identification of recording: Document No. 0710835047; and for other relief; that summons was duly issued out of said Court against you as provided by law and that the said suit is now pending.

NOW, THEREFORE, UNLESS YOU file your answer or otherwise file your appearance in this case in the Office of the Clerk of this Court, Cook County Circuit Court Clerk 50 W Washington St, Chicago, IL 60602 on or before JANUARY 18, 2016, A DEFAULT MAY BE ENTERED AGAINST YOU AT ANY TIME AFTER THAT DAY AND A JUDGMENT MAY BE ENTERED IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE PRAYER OF SAID COMPLAINT. Quintairos, Prieto, Wood & Boyer, P.A., 233 South Wacker Drive, Chicago, Illinois 60606.

(312) 566-0040 NOTE: Pursuant to the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act you are advised that this law fi m is deemed to be a debt collector attempting to collect a debt and any information obtained will be used for that purpose.

Flooding

Continued from Page 1

Avenue is a priority for nearby residents who have had flooding issues as well.

The agreement states that within six months of the agreement being approved, Oak Lawn and Burbank officials will have to bring plans for future improvements to the MWRD. Burbank is also required to come up with $4.89 million over the next 10 years to pay for their share of improvements, while Oak Lawn is being asked

to provide $1.46 million.

“MWRD wants everyone to have a little skin in the game, so to speak,” said Oak Lawn Mayor Sandra Bury.

The three bodies are also planning to work together to come up with other revenue sources.

Some of the work may be covered by state grants, and Bury said.

“The goal is to have local governments work together to solve local issues,” Bury said.

“Hopefully, by working with the MWRD on this, they will help us address other (water-related) issues as well,” she said.

WHATIZIT?

Photo by Joe Boyle

Followers of the Whatizit quiz were out in full force this past week. We thought the sculptures along the facade of the Oak Lawn Library, 9427 S. Raymond Ave., facing 95th Street would get past some of our readers.

But we were wrong. Even though this is a festive and busy time of the year, readers still found the time to answer in great numbers with the correct answer. Jack and Griffin Burke Faddis, of Hickory Hills, guessed that it was the sculpture on the exterior of the Oak Lawn Library. Evergreen Park resident Vince Vizza also answered correctly. Jackie Wilch, of Worth, also gave the correct answer.

Also registering correct answers were Worth residents Theresa and George Rebersky Jr., Worth resident E.J. Oahuekee, the Friday Night Poker Ladies and Book Lovers Club from O-Towns (Oak Lawn, Orland Park and Oak Forest), Joliet resident Nancy Carley, Steger resident Emily Kenny, Chicago Ridge residents Dan and Kathy Higgins, Oak Lawn resident Steve Rosenbaum, Evergreen Park resident Jan Merchantz, Chrystine Busch, of Palos Heights, and Oak Lawn resident Mike Sutko.

Jane Foley, of Oak Lawn, also got the quiz right. Jane also told us that she attended the unveiling of the sculptures.

See if you can guess the Whatizit quiz photo above. The clue is: The color of nature.

Send your responses by noon Monday. Make sure to include your name and hometown.

SUDOKU

Answers on Page 8

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

ACROSS 1 Parlor action 5 Dorm peer leaders: Abbr.

8 Lidless container 14 Palm that produces purple berries 15 CPR giver 16 Missouri River city 17 “You don’t look a day over 29,” probably 19 One may use a teleprompter 20 IM guffaw 21 Hustled 23 Points in math class 24 Didn’t come to pass 28 Chorus for the villain 29 “Dang!”

30 Fellow 31 Drink with sushi 32 Cow or sow 35 Flooring phrase 40 Promos 41 General organization?

42 Tetra holder 43 Reining word 44 “Given the circumstances ...”

47 So as not to be noticed 51 Stories of the ages 52 Invalidate 53 Vacation destination 56 Wanted badly 59 Device for exposing the end of 17-, 24-, 35- or 47-Across 61 __ Pie 62 Great Basin native 63 Orkin victim 64 Pull out of the water 65 TD’s half-dozen 66 Gorillas, e.g.

DOWN 1 Go through a lot of tissues 2 Tunnel effect 3 Help from behind 4 Gather dust 5 “I can __” 6 __ curiae: friend of the court 7 Tough to climb 8 Nav. noncom 9 Word before base or ball 10 Kingdoms 11 Skywalker associate, familiarly 12 Monastic garment 13 Inducing the willies 18 Sea eagles 22 Kitchen dweller of song 25 Spanish 101 verb 26 Cook quickly, in a way 27 Half-note feature 28 Obey 30 Campus no.

31 Farm home 32 Unit between levels 33 Prince in “Frozen” 34 Large grazer 36 Cowardly Lion player 37 Bouncy pace 38 Missouri River city 39 Sundance Kid’s girlfriend 43 Boll eater 44 Actor Will of “The Lego Movie” 45 Many diner dishes 46 Not working 47 Stress-related ailment, possibly 48 Language on a longship 49 16th-century circumnavigator 50 Turn out 54 Prepare for a shot 55 Song and dance 57 Former Abbey Road Studios owner 58 “GoodFellas” boss 60 IRA suggester Answers on Page 8

Thursday, December 17, 2015

The Reporter

8

COMMUNITY CALENDAR EVERGREEN PARK

will be on hand to read during “Family Reading Night” from 6:30 to 8 p.m.

Tuesday, Jan. 19 at Southwest Chicago Christian School, 10110 S. Central Ave., Oak Lawn.

Boomer, the mascot for the Windy City Thunderbolts baseball team, will also be on hand. He will also sign autographs and will be available for photos. Boomer will pass out free giveaways, including vouchers for two free tickets to a Windy City Thunderbolts baseball game for every child in attendance.

This event is open to all families with children ages preschool through eighth grade.

The event is free.

CPR classes are held at Evergreen Park Fire Department The Evergreen Park Fire Department is hosting two CPR Classes at the firehouse, 9000 S. Kedzie Ave. The sessions will be held from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturdays, Dec. 19 and Dec. 26. More information can be obtained by calling (708) 422-2148.

Photo by Dermot Connolly

Lifelong Oak Lawn resident Ronald Walton, 63, and his mother, Dorothy, 88, pose for a photo at Advocate Christ Medical Center’s Annual VAD, Heart and Lung Transplant Holiday Party last Thursday at the Hilton Oak Lawn, 9333 S. Cicero Ave. Ronald received a left ventricular assist device two years ago.

Patients

Continued from Page 1

The two have since become close friends, and were joking between themselves during the dinner.

“This was not the only time she saved a life,” said Boekeloo.

“It’s just part of the job. When these things happen, it does make you glad you became a nurse,” said Baisone-Gazda, a Burbank resident who has worked at the hospital for 28 years.

“It was amazing. Think of the best day of your life and multiply it by a million,” said Boekeloo, trying to describe the day he got a new lease on life.

At a nearby table, Ronald Walton, 63, a lifelong Oak Lawn resident, was celebrating with his mother, Dorothy, 88, who serves as his caregiver.

“We help each other,” she said.

Walton proudly showed of his own battery pack slung around his shoulder, which keeps his heart pumping when he is out and about.

When he goes to bed at night, he explained that he plugs himself into an electrical outlet.

“It’s excellent. I have no complaints at all,” said Walton, explaining that the left side of his heart stopped working when he was 61.

“At least it happened after I retired as a switchman for Santa Fe Railroad,” he said. “I couldn’t work with this.

“After being on life-support, I was out of the hospital 12 days after it was inserted,” he said.

Walton said the VAD won’t prevent him from getting a heart transplant in the future, but he is

happy with the pump.

“It’s a part of me now. I can do just about everything I did before. I don’t go up on the roof anymore, but that is a good thing,” he said with a smile.

Someone else smiling at the party was Antone Tatooles MD. The director of the ventricular assist program at Christ Hospital toured the room chatting with his patients, as well as others who received heart and lung transplants, after keynote speaker Dan Lietz, Chicago Metro coordinator of the Secretary of State’s Organ/Tissue Donor Program stressed the importance of organ donation in saving lives “We do about 100 VAD surgeries a year,” said Tatooles. “Our department is one of the busiest in the U.S., and one of the leaders in new technology,” he said.

“It’s overwhelming to see all these people doing so well,” Tatooles said, when asked what it was like to look around and see so many people he operated on returning to health. “It really is the best gift you could get (as a doctor). “At nearly every table there is someone with a VAD. It would be more amazing if you could have seen them before. Some couldn’t breathe on their own.”

“You’re all miracles,” Ken Lukhard, president of Advocate Christ Medical Center, told the group.

“Life is a precious gift…as a person of faith, I often just glance up to the ninth floor roof where there is a big cross, and I just thank God that he is there and using amazingly gifted people to save lives here every day,” Luckhard added.

OAK LAWN

‘Christmas Window” to be presented at Pilgrim Faith Church Children will present the Christmas pageant “A Christmas Window” at 9:30 a.m.

Sunday, Dec. 20 at Pilgrim Faith United Church of Christ, 9411 S. 51st Ave., Oak Lawn. The church is wheelchair accessible.

Superhero Luncheon to be held at Stony Creek A “Superhero Luncheon” will be held on Saturday, Jan. 30 at the Stony Creek Restaurant and Banquet Facility, 5850 W. 103rd St., Oak Lawn.

The celebration will bring a Web Superhero, Iron Superhero and the captain of Superheroes for dancing and trivia that begins at noon. Guests can come dressed as their favorite superhero.

Doors open at 11:30 a.m. A light lunch buffet will be available at 1 p.m. and is included in the fee. Guests can bring their cameras to take photos.

The registration fee is $9.95 for adults and $5.95 for children ages 10 and under.

Reservations are required.

For more information or to make reservations, contact (708) 857-2433. Residents can also visit online at www.golfstonycreek.com or on Facebook.

Candlelight Christmas Eve services to be held at Pilgrim Faith Candlelight Christmas Eve services will be held at 7 p.m. and 11 p.m. at Pilgrim Faith United Church of Christ, 9411 S. 51st Ave., Oak Lawn. Both services will feature special music, a Christmas message

by Pastor Peggy McClanahan and singing “Silent Night” as each participant lights a candle. The 7 p.m. service also includes a children’s story. The church is handicapped accessible.

Former Bulls star, Boomer to appear at SW Chicago Christian School open house Former Chicago Bulls star Craig Hodges

Supplied photo

LIBRARY BRIEFS EVERGREEN PARK

‘Love Actually’ will be viewed at Evergreen Park Library The movie “Love Actually” will be viewed and discussed at 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 17 at the Evergreen Park Library, 9400 S. Troy St. The Reel Discussions series will focus on the film about the lives of eight very different couples who deal with their love lives in various loosely interrelated tales set during a frantic month before Christmas in London, England.

Discussion of the film will follow the conclusion of the movie. Registration is requested from the library website at www.evergreenparklibrary.org or call (708) 422-8522.

PALOS HILLS

Elizabethans Holiday Concert to be held at library The Elizabethan Holiday Concert will be held at 7 p.m. Monday, Dec. 21 at the Green Hills Public Library, 8611 W. 103rd St., Palos Hills.

The concert will take the audience back in time to the England of Queen Elizabeth I. The singers will be dressed in gowns designed after those worn by Queen Elizabeth I in her youth The Elizabethans take the audience back in time to the England of Queen Elizabeth I, where they can imagine themselves as guests in the great baronial hall which is filled with music and merry feasting. They will be dressed in elaborate gowns designed after those worn by Queen Elizabeth I in her youth.

The Elizabethans sing, dance, and play instruments. They perform music not only from the Renaissance, but also from many lands and many times, gradually coming back to the present.

Painting penguin crafts at library Painting a ceramic penguin is being offered for kids ages 5 and up at 6 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 22 and Wednesday, Dec. 23 at the Green Hills

SUDOKU Solution

after they are completed. The program can get messy so kids should dress accordingly.

Registration is required and is limited to 20. Register online at greenhillslibrary.org.

Wii gaming sessions will be played

Patrons of all ages can take part in board games that will be played from noon to 2 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 30 at the Green Hills Public Library, 8611 W. 103rd St., Palos Hills.

Residents can bring their own board games or play with the ones at the library.

Animals in winter to be examined Facts and stories will be shared on how animals survive during the winter at 6 p.m.

Monday, Dec. 28 at the Green Hills Public Library, 8611 W. 103rd St., Palos Hills.

Christine Buik will be coming to the library with some live animals. She will discuss and tell stories about these creatures, including what animals migrate, hibernate or stay active during the winter months. All ages are welcome.

Registration is required and limited to 90.

Please register all attending. Register online at greenhillslibrary.org.

Play board games

OAK LAWN

Book Discussion Group to meet The Book Discussion Group will hold their first session of the new year with “The Sparrow” at 2 and 7 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 7 at the Oak Lawn Library, 9427 S. Raymond Ave. This is the first session in January for the “Day Reads/Night Reads” at the library. The book is written by Mary Doria Russell. More information can be obtained by calling (708) 422-4990 or visit www.olpl.org.

Copies of each title are available four weeks before each discussion at the Adult Services Desk on the second floor.

Children keep moving during story session

Pete the Cat Story Time will be held at 1:30 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 29 at the Green Hills Public Library, 8611 W. 103rd St., Palos Hills.

Staff members will read stories, sing songs and make crafts with guests. All ages are welcome.

The “We Like to Move It” session for children ages 5 to 7 will be held from 3:45 to 4:30 p.m. Monday, Jan. 11 at the Oak Lawn Library, 9427 S. Raymond Ave. Registration is not required. Kids will not sit long in this active story time full of games, dancing and more activities.

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

Art Club session for children to be held

‘Elf” will be screened at Oak Lawn Library

Crafts and games to be played at Pete the Cat Story Time

The Art Club for children ages 6 and up will meet at 6 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 29 at the Green Hills Public Library, 8611 W. 103rd St., Palos Hills.

The art work will be hung in the gallery

The holiday movie “Elf” will be presented from 1 to 3 p.m. Monday, Dec. 21 at the Oak Lawn Library, 9427 S. Raymond Ave. The 2003 movie starring Will Ferrell is rated PG. Registration is not required.

DALEY

Senior luncheon to be held The Worth Park District is planning its next senior luncheon from noon to 2 p.m.

Wednesday, Jan. 13 at the park district, 11500 S. Beloit Ave. Guests can play some bingo, have lunch and meet new friends.

Registration will be held up until one week before the luncheon. The registration fee is $7.

Robert A. Emmett Robert A. “Bob” Emmett, 95, a Palos Hills resident, died Dec. 8.

Mr. Emmett, a World War II Navy veteran in the South Pacific, was a retired wood pattern maker for International Harvester.

Survivors include a daughter, Michelle Emmett; nieces and nephews; and many great-nieces and great-nephews.

Services were Saturday from Colonial Chapel Funeral Home to Sacred Heart Church. Interment followed at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery.

Fred Ignell Fred Stanley Ignell, 96, a resident of Hickory Hills, died Saturday at Palos Community Hospital.

Mr. Ignell was a retired longtime piano tuner.

Survivors include his wife, Shirley (nee Carlson); daughter, Pamela Ephraim; son, Peter; brother, Walter Ignell; seven grandchildren; and one great-grandchild.

Visitation is from 3 to 9 p.m. today (Thursday, Dec. 17) at Palos-Gaidas Funeral Home, 11028 Southwest Highway, Palos Hills.

Services are at 11:30 a.m. Friday at the funeral home. Interment will follow at Oak Hill Cemetery.

Paul Vojacek, 47, an Evergreen Park resident, died Dec. 7.

Mr. Vojacek was employed at a freight business near O’Hare Airport.

Survivors include his wife, Lucia (nee Martinic); daughters, Madeline and Valerie; son, Joseph; father, Vernon Larson; sisters, Patricia Salwach and Denise Grenier; brother, Vernon; and many nieces and nephews.

Services were Saturday from Kosary Funeral Home to Queen of Martyrs Church. Interment was private.

Funeral Directory Palos-Gaidas Funeral 708-974-4410 Directory Palos-Gaidas Funeral 708-974-4410 Directory Palos-Gaidas FUNERAL HOME

FUNERAL HOME David Gaidas, Jr. Director

11028 Southwest Highway Palos Hills, IL 60465

“THE NEXT GENERATION TO CARE FOR YOU” FUNERAL HOME

FUNERAL HOME

David Gaidas, Jr. Director 10701 S. Harlem Ave. Worth, IL

708.448.6000 Southwest Owned11028 and Operated

by Highway PalosFamily Hills, IL 60465“Your Neighborhood Funeral Home” the Mintle

“THE NEXT GENERATION TO CARE FOR YOU” FUNERAL HOME

708-974-4410 FUNERAL HOME

David Gaidas, Jr. Director 10701 S. Harlem Ave. Worth, IL

708.448.6000

Southwest Owned11028 and Operated

by Highway the Mintle PalosFamily Hills, IL 60465“Your Neighborhood Funeral Home”

The Board of Fire & Police Commission for the City of Hickory Hills will conduct their meetings for 2016 on the following listed dates at 5:00 p.m. at the Police Station, 8800 West 87th Street, Conference Room: January 4, 2016 March 7, 2016 May 2, 2016

WORTH

“THE NEXT GENERATION TO CARE FOR YOU”

LEGAL NOTICE

CROSSWORD Answers

The “O Come, All Ye Faithful” concert of festive Christmas music will be held at 4 p.m. Sunday, Jan.3 at Sacred Heart Church, 8245 W. 111th St., Palos Hills.

“We are happy to present our families and community a beautiful gift of music during the Christmas season,” said James Grzadzinski, music director and Tinley Park resident. “Christmas is a season of joy and giving, and it is important to start this effort in our own homes and families.”

The concert will feature Christmas caroling in English and Polish, as well as festive and reflective choral music of the season. The program will feature the musicians of the parish including the Sacred Heart Chorale, Sacred Heart Cantori, Sacred Heart Guitar/Piano Ensemble, Sacred Heart Treble Singers/Family Choir, and the Sacred Heart Cantor Ministry.

They will be accompanied by organ and instrumentalists of the parish.

A freewill offering benefits the Sacred Heart Music Ministry. More information can be obtained by calling the parish music office at (708) 974-3336, ext. 245.

Paul Vojacek

Public Library, 8611 W. 103rd St., Palos Hills.

Registration is required and limited to 34 per session. The two dates are offered due to the high demand. Patrons are limited to registering for only one session.

Register online at greenhillslibrary.org.

A Wii gaming session will be offered for kids ages 5 and up from noon to 3 p.m.

Monday, Dec. 28 at the Green Hills Public Library, 8611 W. 103rd St., Palos Hills. Participants can challenge their friends in the Super Smash Brothers Brawl in the Teen Center.

Christmas music concert to be held at Sacred Heart Church

DEATH NOTICES

Family Reading Night Oak Lawn Community High School students display their Media Center Family Reading Night T-shirts at the third annual event.

Over 25 students, staff, parents and community members with ties to the high school attended the evening book club. Discussion and activities were based around the popular novel “We Were Liars” by E. Lockhart.

PALOS HILLS

July 11, 2016 September 12, 2016 November 7, 2016

HICKORY HILLS FIRE & POLICE COMMISSION

Owned and Operated by the Mintle Family

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

Thursday, December 17, 2015

The Reporter

9

Thursday, December 17, 2015

HOLIDAY WORSHIP SERVICES

The Reporter

10

11 The Reporter

CONSUMER NEWS

COMINGS & GOINGS

Thursday, December 17, 2015

Just Shrimp opens second location

Holiday spending can help teach children about money

T

D

inley Park’s Just Shrimp seafood restaurant has opened a second location at 5438 W. 127th St. in Alsip.

Managing partner John Mihalos said the Alsip location would offer the same menu of fried seafood and sides that it sells in Tinley Park.

Mihalos said he and Alsip operating partner George Marudas decided to open a second location because of the demand for shrimp and seafood.

Bob “We are bringing back the forgotten local shrimp Bong house. People are on the go and on a tight budget, but still want to enjoy great seafood at a reasonable price.

In today’s market place that is difficult to find. Just Shrimp is looking to fill that void. With our unique and affordable menu people can appreciate our products,” said Mihalos in a release.

The Alsip location is primarily a takeout restaurant, but has 15 seats in its dining room.

Hours at the Tinley location are 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday to Thursday, from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Saturday. Hours at Alsip are 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday to Saturday.

Both restaurants are closed on Sunday.

For more information, call the Tinley location at (708) 444-2770 or the Alsip location at (708) 897-9192 or visit the website at www.justshrimprestaurant.com.

MB Financial and American Chartered to merge MB Financial Inc. has announced it will acquire American Chartered Bank in a stock and cash transaction of about $449 million, or $9.30 per share.

MB Financial has several branches throughout the south suburbs including

Tinley Park, South Holland, Countryside, Burbank, Oak Lawn and Frankfort. American Chartered has 15 branches. One is in Tinley Park but all of its other branches are in the western or northern suburbs and Chicago.

Founded in 1987, American Chartered has about $2.8 billion in total assets, $2.2 billion in deposits and $2 billion in loans.

MB Financial has about $15 billion in assets and was founded more than a century ago. The merger is expected to close around June 30, 2016.

“The acquisition of American Chartered is consistent with our mission of building Chicagoland’s premier commercial bank. American Chartered brings a strong middle-market commercial banking lending team and client base, an unparalleled core deposit franchise and a proven track record of profitable organic growth. We look forward to welcoming American Chartered customers and employees to MB Financial,” said Mitchell Feiger, president and chief executive officer of MB Financial, in a release.

Studio 63 closes in Summit

Studio 63 held a farewell party on Saturday after losing its lease at its longtime home in Summit.

“We started having landlord issues about a year ago,” said co-owner Nick Goutos.

“They doubled the lease amount, which we agreed to pay, but then kept changing the terms of the lease.”

A call to Arrow Real Estate in LaGrange, which is the leasing agent for the property, was not returned.

Goutos said his family had leased the building at 7225 W. 63rd St. in Summit since his father George Goutos built it 50 years ago in a land-lease deal with the property owner.

The building was home for several years

Supplied photo

John Mihalos, managing partner of Just Shrimp, holds up a huge lobster.

to the Prime N Tender steakhouse. For a short time it was a country bar called Kickers Corral. For the last 17 years, it has been a nightclub called Studio 63.

Goutos owns the business with his brother Jerry Goutos.

“We are still looking to relocate somewhere in Summit with the same name,” Goutos said. “If we can find the right venue.”

An auction was held Tuesday at the club to liquidate inventory that included everything from electronics to furniture to liquor.

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

BEST OF THE WINE GUY

Laughing, loving and learning is good medicine In the last decade or so, we have discovered a medicine that can help prevent illness, heal and enhance life. It is not a pill or tablet or syrupy concoction kept in the medicine cabinet.

In fact, you can’t put it in your mouth.

This medicine is not for sale.

When news of this was first publicized it was taken lightly. The researchers who conducted the clinical studies were surprised by the results, and they referred to it as medicine because they claimed it could heal the sick. Everyone has access to it if they choose.

So what is it? Laughter.

Fear, dread and doom-and-gloom all bring stress. We know stress can kill. But laughter is like sunshine and melts away these harmful emotions. The Bible says it makes the heart merry.

Bring laughter into your life – at home, at work, with family with friends, and even by yourself. Laughter is sometimes best when shared. A person with a cheery

disposition who is smiling, laughing and joking brings sunshine to a gloomy day.

We need laughter today more than ever.

With the news being so bad, it will bring you down and cause you to lose faith in humankind. We’re better off not watching the news and should instead be tuning into comedies and programs about health, foods and history.

Go dancing and attend concerts. Get

together with family and friends to celebrate birthdays and anniversaries – or life in general. Take vacations – even short ones – and take them often. Be happy for anyone who has good fortune, and give thanks to God and be content with who you are and what you have. Laugh at bad luck – it can’t last forever.

Don’t forget to educate yourself about food and the health benefits it can provide.

Learn to cook and how to heal yourself with the ingredients in your kitchen. It is not only good for you, but fun.

To sum it up: Laugh daily, eat well, drink some wine and find worth living.

Anthony Scarano is not a doctor. He is an Evergreen Park resident, winemaker and certified naturopath. Suggestions in this space are his opinions based on years of independent study and personal experience. Wine should be consumed in moderation. Overindulgence may be harmful to health.

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

Chicago Ridge Marquette Bk Tr to Tait Brittnea, 6430 W Pamela Ln, Unit #643010, $35,000; USA Contemporary Living Inc to Rusnak Bonnie, 6330 W 107th St, $189,500; Chicago Title Land Trust Co Tr to Seem David, 11028 Mansfield Ave, $138,000; Winter Jacob A to Tortorelli Rocco D, 5830 W 109th St, $156,500; Corner Stone Prop LLC to

Wennergren Kevin, 10508 Ridge Cove Dr, Unit #23A, $71,000; Dore Daniel D to DMJ Cap Grp LLC III, 10650 S Central Ave, $400,000.

Evergreen Park Kerlin John F to Cook Anthony J, 9829 S Ridgeway Ave, $515,000; Bosak Brian J to Gruzlewski Jason, 2837 W 100th Pl, $220,000; Intercounty Judicial Sales Corp to CJ Chicago Investments LLC Series 9356, 9356 S Richmond Ave, $57,000; Lucht Wayne R to Osterloh Jason A, 9423 S Springfield Ave, $190,000; Altenburg Mary Tr to Mathew Rajan Kadavil, 9207 S Crawford Ave, $285,000; Wheeler Financial Inc to Elizondo

Mortgage Rates Around the Area First Midwest Bank (as of Dec. 7)

30-year fi ed

RATES 4.125

APR 4.160

POINTS 0

15-year fi ed

3.375

3.470

0

30-year fi ed Jumbo

4.000

4.045

0

United Trust Bank (as of Dec. 14)

30-year fi ed

RATES 4.050

APR 4.052

POINTS 0

15-year fi ed

3.375

3.379

0

10-year fi ed

3.250

3.255

0

Prospect Federal (as of Dec. 14)

30-year fi ed

RATES 4.000

APR 4.047

POINTS .25

20-year fi ed

3.750

3.814

.25

15-year fi ed

3.125

3.191

.25

All rates subject to change daily. Equal opportunity lenders.

Gilberto, 2400 W 95th St, $99,500; KGP II LLC to Alfadhalah Alfadhalah, 2628 W 94th Pl, $90,000.

Hickory Hills Rodriguez David to Witt Elva, 8517 Collette Ln, $241,000; Jauregui Jose Jesus to Abdallah Issam, 9024 S 78th Ave, $220,000; Standard B&T Co HH Tr to Potacki George, 9304 S 81st Ave, $100,000; Stock Suzann N to Barnard Timothy J, 9308 S 80th Ct, $190,000; Piscitelli Kerri A to Krzeczkowski Barbara, 9120 W 95th St, Unit #91201A, $115,000; 8656 S 84th HH LLC to South Grp LLC, 8656 84th Ct, $725,000.

Oak Lawn Cap Teri to Luna Bianca, 11013 Kilbourn Ave, $174,000; Boyer Gregory M to Little Ivan, 4536 102nd Pl, $235,000; Short Leland R to Menez Marisol, 6039 W 87th St, $166,000; Chicago Title Land Trust Co Tr to Taheny Michael R, 9932 Mulberry Ave, $200,000; HSBC Bk USA to Inverclyde LLC, 5141 Oak Center Dr, $97,500; Jenkins Kathleen to Kealey Richard A, 5840 104th St, Unit #414, $114,000; Nievera Jean P to Nievera Brian A, 4820 106th St, $167,000; Danaher Maureen Extr to Sroka Eric, 11020 S Keating Ave, Unit #201, $60,000; Kelly Patricia Ann Tr to Mccartan Teresa Ann Tr, 11001 W 111th St, Unit #1001204, $120,000; Epstein David A Adm to Lynch Kevin, 10205 S Komensky Ave, Unit #2C, $56,000; Matthis Lugene A Tr to Light Deborah L, 6223 W 94th St, Unit #62231NE, $118,000; Curran Michael F to Kwilinski Kenneth S, 10037 Menard Ave, $215,000;

Fannie Mae to Love Andrea, 9716 Karlov Ave, Unit #2201, $50,000; Concialdi Steven M Tr to LawsonTravis Nicole L, 11012 S Keating Ave, Unit #110121D, $56,000; Urban Gregory J to Oconnell Sheila, 5404 W 89th St, $194,000; Koupeny Robert to Foy John J, 9600 Mayfield Ave, $220,000; Coneset Marianne to Marchand Erica A, 10833 Lavergne Ave, $206,000; Federal Home Loan Mtg Corp to Jacobs Dennis W, 6116 W 94th St, $110,500; Judicial Sales Corp to Urzica Petru Iulian, 8844 55th Ct, $136,500; Edbrid Inc to Moreno-Villagomez Maria Elena, 9623 Massasoit Ave, $225,000.

Palos Hills Alvarez Louis Decd Estate to Pierce Joanna Jadwiga, 10327 S Alta Dr, $192,000; Tasic Lawrence L Tr to Strzesak Wojciech, 10502 S Aspen Dr, $210,000; Dubauskas Eimantas Tr to Urbonavicius Arnoldas, 3 Cour Montreal, $165,000; Estafanous Inas B to Al-Yafi Mohammed A, 9190 Del Prado Dr, Unit #91902N, $151,500; FV-I Inc to Szperlak Andrzej, 9014 W Stratford Ln, $250,000; Rao Chirumamilla P to Assad Assad, 8855 W 98th St, $260,000; Prokopec Jane to Kim Yong, 6 Cour Monnet, $140,000.

Worth Rainwaters Michaline V to Chicago Title Land Trust Co Tr, 10439 Southwest Hwy, Unit #104391S, $80,000; Braun Linda J to Jordan Newell C Sr, 7530 W 111th St, Unit #3D, $76,000; Mix John to Chavanne Nicole M, 7329 W 113th St, $136,500.

risk, liquid vehicle uring this — while for your holiday season, long-term goals, you you’ll likely be might be relying in spending money, in part on your employervarious amounts and sponsored retirement in various ways. And plan, such as a 401(k). you can use this exThe key point to get perience to teach your across is that you have children about money various financial goals management.

Scott life with various Here are a few Johnson in means of working toideas for doing just ward achieving them. that: • Introduce your children • Stick to a budget. Tell to investing. If you’ve already your children you’ve set aside brought up the topic of saving a certain amount of money for long-term goals, why not for gifts and holiday events, take it a step further and give such as hosting parties, and your children a doorway into that you won’t exceed it. And the investment if you have world? Specifisaved money cally, consider throughout giving them a the year in few shares of a special stock, possibly holiday fund, in companies let your kids with which know about they are althat, too. ready familiar, This informaand help them tion should follow these help impress stocks. upon them One way of the imporgiving stocks tance of to children is sticking with through a cusa budget and todial account, saving for a which can be goal. opened under • Discuss the Uniform credit and Transfer to debt. Ideally, Minors Act (UTMA) or the you won’t have to use your Uniform Gifts to Minors credit cards to an unusual degree during the holiday sea- Act (UGMA). Keep in mind, son. If you do, though, explain though, that once your child reaches the age of majority – to your children that using a usually 18 or 21 – he or she credit card is not the same gets full control of the money thing as “free” money, and in the account. Plus, your gift that your goal is to pay off is irrevocable. the card as soon as possible, • Be generous. If you’re so that you won’t have to pay going to make charitable gifts, even more for your purchases let you kids know about it – in the form of interest payor even let them help pick the ments. charities. It will show them • Compare short- and that one purpose of wealth aclong-term goals. Explain cumulation is to give back to to your children that your the world. holiday spending is the result By providing some financial of having saved for, and met, a short-term goal, but that you education to your kids this holiday season, you’ll be givare also saving for long-term ing them a gift that can last goals, such as retirement. long after the festivities have Depending on the age of your ended. kids, you might want to go into somewhat more detail, Scott Johnson, CFP., is a such as describing, in general financial advisor with Edward terms, the different ways you Jones, 8146 W. 111th St., Palos save for the different goals.

Hills, (708) 947-1965. Edward For example, for your holiJones does not provide legal day spending, you might be advice. This article was writdrawing on money from your ten by Edward Jones for use checking account — or, as by your local Edward Jones mentioned above, a holiday financial advisor. fund, possibly kept in a low-

Lipinski introduces legislation to protect airline passengers Cong. Dan Lipinski (D-3rd) has introduced the Comfortable and Fair Flights Act of 2015 that he said will ensure that airline passengers have some basic rights and protections when traveling on commercial airlines.

“More and more, when airline passengers get on a flight they expect to suffer from uncomfortable conditions; as a frequent flyer I understand this,” said Lipinski. “One thing they should never have to worry about is access to a bathroom.

Unfortunately, commercial flights are not required to depart with a functioning bathroom, sometimes forcing passengers to endure a trip without this basic necessity.

“Moreover, as ancillary fees continue to grow, the specter of an in-flight bathroom fee continues to loom in the background

since first being broached in 2010.”

Lipinski said his Comfortable and Fair Flights Act would remedy these issues with certain provisions, including that if the bathrooms on an aircraft are not functioning properly before departure. Another provision is that passengers would have the option to change their flight plans without incurring a change fee.

The congressman added that no commercial airline would be permitted to charge a fee for use of the bathroom. Lipinski added that the airlines would be required to refund bag fees to passengers who have had the arrival of their bags delayed by two or more hours.

“These are all common sense provisions that will help protect the consumer rights of passengers,” said Lipinski.

SCHOOL NEWS

Thursday, December 17, 2015

The Reporter

12

Oak Lawn High sparkles at Scholastic Bowl

Supplied photo

Seventy-five seniors at Marist High School were recently named Illinois State Scholars by the Illinois Student Assistance Commission.

Marist seniors selected as Illinois State Scholars The Illinois Student Assistance Commission (ISAC) recently named 75 Marist High School seniors Illinois State Scholars. This brings the total of Illinois State Scholars from Marist to 341 over the past five years.

Illinois State Scholars represent approximately the top 10 percent of high school seniors, hailing from 671 different high schools across the state.

Selection is based on SAT, ACT or Prairie State Achievement Exam scores, and/or class rank at the end of the junior year. High school guidance counselors work with ISAC to determine the winners.

“We are so proud of our Illinois State Scholars,” said Marist Principal Larry Tucker, Class of ’79. “This is a powerful reflection of the caliber of students at our school, as well as the strong curriculum and preparation our teachers provide to help students excel.”

The Marist students named Illinois State Scholars are Laith Abad, Margaret Berger, Michaela Bernichio, Elizabeth Besenhofer, Grace Callaghan, Tara Carson, Caroline Castelino, Liam Clair, Adri-

an Clark, Kelly Collins, Robert Conklin, Megan Doah, Caroline Doyle, Mary Clare Enright, Elyse Fell, Alexa Ferenzi, Ashley Garla, Josie Gilligan, Emily Graff, Frederick Hofer, Elise Hohl, Brent Holder, Catherine Hynes, Rafaello Ibrado, Krista Ico, Madeline Jurcev, Claire Kelly, John Kelly, Kevin Kelly, Kevin Keaney, Matt Kettering, Stephanie Kohn, Michael Kumicich, Daniel Labuda, Michael Laird, Alexandra Lenz, Catherine Lewellyn, Julia Linares, Marlynn Lopez, Martin Kelly, Daniel Lynch, Richard Mauge, Robert Mauge, Alaina McCarthy, Bridget McDermott, Hannah McDermott, Hannah McMahon, Cassidy McNulty, Elizabeth Mineman, Brendan Mullen, Kevin Neumann, Erin Nolan, Carolan O’Connell, Nicki Paolelli, Michela Petrosino, Jason Phelan, Jakob Powers, Gloria Robinson, Katherine Ross, Ashley Smialek, Maura Smith, Stephanie Smith, Paige Solcani, Michael St. Lawrence, Claire Stanecki, Anne Marie Stifter, Maxwell Stinites, Justin Tringl, Benjamin Turcich, Rachel Ulaszek, Vanessa Villansenor, Thomas Wade, Claire Walsh, Rita Walsh, Zachary Wegner and Patricia Witte.

An unusually large November snowfall was not able to cool off the Oak Lawn Community High School Scholastic Bowl team from dominating at the IHSSBCA kickoff tournament at Homewood-Flossmoor.

The Spartan B team started slow but rallied to win three straight matches and capture a division title. The B team was paced by Danielle Allen with 22 tossups, Brea Brennan with 18 tossups, Rebecca Suarez with 8 tossups, and Samantha Izaguirre with 4 tossups.

The team was also helped on many bonus questions by Hannah Spillane and Elizabeth Rodriguez.

The Spartan A team dominated the early rounds and playoffs by winning seven straight matches, and missed out on a chance at the championship due to a tiebreaker.

Supplied photo

The Oak Lawn Community High School Scholastic Bowl team finished fourth out of 36 teams at the Homewood-Flossmoor High School Tournament last month.

The team ended up placing fourth out of 36 total teams, and were paced by Gina Snyder with 8 tossups, Ryan Quinn with 30 tossups and Trevor Spreadbury with 69

tossups.

Team members Ayman Salah, Allison Templin, Ryan Alsot and Bernie Muransky also contributed to the team’s success.

Janik returns to OLCHS Board of Education Daniel Janik was sworn into office as a member of the Oak Lawn Community High School 229 Board during the Dec. 2 meeting.

Janik is no stranger to the district, serving as the board president from 2011 to 2013.

Janik was elected to fill the seat vacated by board member James Melnik, who was in his Supplied photo Daniel Janik was recently sworn second term and had served into office as the newest Oak Lawn since 2011.

Janik will serve in the role Community High School District 229 Board of Education member. until the term expires in April,

2017. The position will then be determined by the April 4, 2017 election.

Dan Janik was selected among several very qualified individuals but his prior Board of Education experience brought him to the top of the list,” said Matthew Egan, president of 229 Board of Education. “Dan is a hardworking and dedicated member of the community and his prior Board of Education experience puts him in a position to hit the ground running.”

Supplied photo

Chicago Christian students perform at Elim Adult Services The Chicago Christian High School Flute Choir performed for Elim Adult Services in Palos Heights on Dec. 3 for a packed crowd of clients and staff. The students and Chris Denman, band director at Chicago Christian, played a repertoire of classical, sacred, and Christmas music. This performance was part of a music series Denman has been teaching the clients bi-weekly on various genres and styles of music. The residents and clients have participated with Pep Band music and Chamber Music so far with Praise and Worship, Jazz, and other styles coming in the new year. The Chicago Christian High School Jazz Band also performed for this crowd at the end of October to showcase Pep Band music. Pictured above are (from left) Chicago Christian band director Chris Denman, Ashley Akrami , Emma Vander Plaats and Sarah Pruim.

Over 50 Richards students qualify as AP scholars

Supplied photo

Chicago Christian students named Illinois State Scholars

Officials at Chicago Christian High School in Palos Heights announced on Dec. 3 that 15 members of the senior class were recognized as Illinois State Scholars. Illinois State Scholar recognition is awarded to high school seniors based on factors such as ACT or SAT test scores, class rank, class size, and unweighted GPA (grade point average). Pictured are (back row, from left) Michelle VanderWall , Jimmy Brady, of Palos Park; Caleb DeRuiter, Trevor Wolterink, Li Zhang, Ben VanderPlaats, Palos Heights; Sydnie TIemens, Worth; (front row, from left) Stephanie Voogt, Emily Vilendrer, Nicole Hellinga, Kayla Kamp, Sarah Claud, Madilyn Dejager and Deborah Fry. Not present for the photo was Bobby Schaaf.

OLCHS students see ‘Mockingjay Pt. 2’ Over 35 students at Oak Lawn Community High School went to see “Mockingjay Part 2 at the AMC Lowes in Woodridge recently as part of an after-school field trip.

“Mockinjay Part 2” is the final movie in the popular “Hunger Games” trilogy, a young adult novel series by Suzanne Collins.

Every Tuesday before Thanks-

giving, the Media Center went on an after-school field trip to see a film based on a popular book. Past events included trips to see “Harry Potter” and all the “Twilight” movies.

Event chaperones were Jamie Atkus, Eileen Jones, Eric Kelly, Dr. Jeana Lietz, Kate Mellone, Jessica Nickless, Jennifer Sidlow and Eileen Sauter.

Chi. Christian to host open house on Jan. 28 An open house will be held beginning at 6:45 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 28 at Chicago Christian High School, 12001 S. Oak Park Ave., Palos Heights.

The open house will provide an opportunity to meet the faculty and coaches and attend a variety of sectionals covering topics such as the school’s STEM programs (the only Project Lead the Way STEM courses in the area), tuition assistance and co-curriculars.

Pre-registration is not necessary. More information about the open house or Chicago Christian can be obtained by calling Wilma Persenaire, (708) 388-7656, or visit www.swchristian.org/admissions.

More than 50 current students and May 2015 graduates at Richards High School in Oak Lawn qualify as Advanced Placement Scholars.

This is the second straight year that more than 50 Richards students earned this honor.

The College Board’s Advanced Placement Program offers students the opportunity to take challenging college-level courses while still in high school, and to receive college credit, advanced placement, or both for successful performance on AP exams.

The College Board honors outstanding performances on AP exams with several levels of recognition. On the grading scale of 1 to 5, a score of 3 or higher qualifies as passing.

AP Scholars with a score of three or higher are Jannah Alaiwi, Gabriella Bandera,

Supplied photo

It’s all smiles for some of the more than 50 students from Richards High School in Oak Lawn who qualified as Advanced Placement Scholars this year.

Sana Barakat, Sami Bourjas, Liz Chaparro, Celina Clifton, Bob Cook, Abigail Cwiklinski, Thomas Doon, Erika Eringis, Abby Gentile, Adhem Hinnawi, Natalia Hornik, Allison Houlihan, Dylan Jankowski, Asha Jowers-Jordan, Joshua Kamba, Julia Kennedy, Kylie Kowaleski, An-

gelika Kwak, Alyssa Lee, Sarah Magana, Fabian Martinez, Kim McEvilly, Angeles Ochoa-Raya, Parth Patel, Raneen Razick, Tara Rivera, Christian Rueda, Hani Salameh, Ahmad Samara, Katelyn Sullivan, Teris Taylor, Alyssa Van and Kevin Williams.

The AP Scholars with a score of four or higher are Khaled Almusa, Agata Bernat, Charbel Bourjas, Michael Rores and Lindsay Thompson.

AP Scholars with Distinction with a score of five or higher are Caroline Azem, Jeanine Cyze, Siobhan Fox, Andrew Gacek, Jessica Gall, Victoria Gomez, Kyle Kachnowski, Vanessa Kalinowska, Kevin Kozik, Caitlin O’Sullivan and Roxanne Segina.

Vanessa Kalinowka is the National A.P. Scholar with an average score of at least 4 on all AP exams.

Supplied photo

McAuley students names as Illinois State Scholars

Forty students at Mother McAuley High School were named as Illinois State Scholars. The students include (front row, from left) President Mary Acker Klingenberger, president; Gabrielle Marback-Pehler, Ishbel Rodriguez, Gabriella Galvan, Kiera Plioplys, Jaclyn Prucha, Jane DeJarld, Isabella Mueller, Caitlin Jandacek, Nora Murphy, Rachel Todd, Colleen Liston, Anna Strahlman, Eileen Boyce, principal; (second row, from left) Scarlet Wickert, Andrea Horn, Ariale Alzona, Alyson Lopez, Christine Leahy, Lauren Turnbull, Kristyna Kresic, Margo Vandeveld, Mary Jennings, Meghan Rokas, Molly Clifford, Amy Geraghty, Amy Balich, (back row, from left) Sandra Khouri, Maeve O’Rourke, Rebecca Rimkus, Deja Harden, Katherine Fennessey, Francesca Velcich, Sarah Law, Macy Andlinger, Miranda Velez, Kaitlyn Johnson, Yinshuo Liu and Salena Ibrahim. Mya Cox, Margaret Hackett and Erin Ludwig were not present for the photo.

Students volunteer to rake leaves In cooperation with the Village of Oak Lawn and City of Hometown, Oak Lawn Hometown School District 123 participated in a day of community service last month. Groups of staff, students and their families could be seen up and down the streets raking leaves as they lent a hand to those in need. Over 150 volunteers were able to help 97 families, fill 700 leaf bags, and consume 225 hot dogs.

Supplied photo

SPORTS The Regional News • The Reporter

Dramatic victories Stagg, Chicago Christian come up with big wins in boys basketball. Page 3

SXU is No. 1 Can anyone beat Bob Hallberg’s women’s hoops powerhouse? Page 4

Thursday, December 17,2015 2015 Thursday, March 5,

Jeff Sports Editor • sports@regionalpublishing.com

KenVorva, Karrson, Sports Editor • sports@regionalpublishing.com

Southwest• •Section Section2,2,Page Page11 Southwest

They’re a Tremendous Trio Girls Swimmer of the Year • Girls Cross Country Athlete of the Year • Boys Cross Country Athlete of the Year

Photos by Jeff Vorva

Left: Sandburg’s Clare Lawlor, shown signing a letter-of-intent to swim for Rutgers, has been named the Reporter-Regional Girls Swimmer of the Year. Center: April van Ryn came out for the cross country team this year at Chicago Christian and led the Knights to regional and sectional titles and a seventh-place finish in Class 1A. Right: Sean Torpy, shown with Orland Park Mayor Dan McLaughlin during a board meeting that honored the state champion Sandburg cross country team, won a sectional title and was third in the state.

CLARE LAWLOR

APRIL VAN RYN

SEAN TORPY

By Anthony Nasella

By Jeff Vorva

By Jeff Vorva

By winning medals in two events at the recent IHSA State Swimming finals at New Trier, Sandburg senior Clare Lawlor raised her career state medals total to seven, including six individual awards.

“It was a very sweet taste at state,” Lawlor said of the experience at New Trier High School on Nov. 20-21.

The seven total medals earned by Lawlor also broke the school swimming record, for both boys and girls, of six medals captured

by Brittany Kamper from 2009-2012. For her acheivements, Lawlor has earned the first Reporter-Regional Girls Swimming Player of the Year honor.

The Rutgers-bound Lawlor finished fourth in the 100-yard freestyle (51.27) and seventh in the 50 freestyle (23.52). The finish in the 100 was the only time in her career that she qualified in the championship heat (top six places).

“For myself, it was really great to finish off the year so strong,” Lawlor said.

“Also, to be able to share the experience with my teammates who also worked hard was really great. We had a lot of sophomores step up and a freshman who really showed us what she had. She really helped us.”

With a young team to start the season, Lawlor took advantage of the opportunity to mentor the underclassmen. She got her first experience at state as a freshman, when she competed on the Eagles’ 400-free relay team, which finished ninth. That experience whetted her appetite for more.

“Every day in practice I really tried to help the team out because practices are so challenging,” she said. “It was good to help them and to put a perspective on the daily duties and also to positive for my teammates in every practice.”

During her career at Sandburg, Lawlor swam under the guidance of two coaches — the late and beloved Jane Caliendo and current coach Anna McBride. She said she’s grateful for the influence of both.

“Coach Caliendo impacted me significantly as an underclassmen,” she said. “Coach McBride was also a great mentor, and it was great having her as a coach. She worked so hard, and it motivated all of us to work harder.”

When Chicago Christian’s Allie Boss, April van Ryn, Alexis van Ryn and Jill Van Dyk teamed together to win the Class 2A 4x800 meter relay championship at the University High Track and Field Sectional in the spring and qualified for state, they knew they had a special team.

Three of the four athletes were on the cross country team in 2014 that finished 18th in the state and they decided to convince the fourth – April Van Ryn – to come out for the team this year.

Not only did van Ryn join the team, the junior finished first in the McNamara regional to help the Knights easily win that title by 39 points and she took second in the Lisle Sectional and helped the Knights win that event by 43 points.

The big test was going to come at the state meet on Nov. 6. As her teammates attested, the state meet can be overwhelming for a first-time qualifier because of the enormity of the event and the volume of runner in the race at Detweiler Park in Peoria.

She passed the test.

Once again, she led the Knights finishing in 28th place overall with a time of 18 minutes 35 seconds and scored 17 points for her team and is named the Reporter-Regional’s first Girls Cross Country Player of the Year.

The Knights finished seventh in the state meet, up 11 spots from last year and van Ryn’s presence was one of the main reasons.

“She did so well on the track team that we really wanted her on the cross country team,” said Van Dyk, who finished second for the Knights in the state meet. “She really helped us a lot.

We’re hoping next year we can place even higher.’’

The race was not as overwhelming for van Ryan because she knew what to expect, courtesy of the wisdom of her teammates and coach Jake Christiansen.

“I felt good and our race strategy helped a lot,” van Ryn said.

“We needed to relax for the first mile and work harder in the second and third miles.’’

Vince Capuano did not run on Sandburg’s state championship cross country team.

He is not even on the roster.

But he may have had one of the biggest hand in the Eagles’ success without even realizing it six years ago.

Capuano convinced fellow Jerling sixth grader Sean Torpy to go out for cross country.

But Torpy wanted no part of it.

“It was my first day of school and the first day of practice for cross country and I was hemming and hawing about going out for the team,’’ Torpy said. “I was just about to walk out of the building and Vince came over and grabbed me by the hook of my backpack and said ‘I don’t want to go to practice alone.’ ’’ Sean tried out, loved the sport, and convinced his twin brother, Chris, to get involved, too.

In November the Torpys helped the Eagles win their first Class 3A boys cross country state championship and they went on to finish fourth in the nation. Sean Torpy became the Eagles’ top runner in the postseason and has been named the first Reporter-Regional Boys Cross Country Player of the Year.

Torpy finished third in the state with a time of 14 minutes, 25 seconds, and also was first at the Hinsdale Central Sectional.

Odds are, the senior probably would have won a regional race, but many of the top Sandburg runners sat out that event to concentrate on sectionals and state.

Chris, is one of Sean’s biggest fans.

“He’s one of two guys on the team who has been running his whole career,” Chris said. “He’s been doing it since sixth grade. He was motivated for the team to win a state title. It’s been his dream for years even before he got into high school.

Now that he is in high school and we won a state title…I’m proud of him and I love to see him up there and leading us. He motivates me and he motivates the other runners.

“He led the team to our first state title and it’s definitely worth it for him.’’

Correspondent

Sports Editor

Sports Editor

Next Week: Football Player of the Year • Girls Volleyball Player of the Year

Wierzal resigns as Sandburg grid coach

By Jeff Vorva

GRIDIRON TENURE

Sports Editor

Sandburg coach Dave Wierzal had the longest tenure with his team — nine years —than any other football coach in the Reporter-Regional area. Here are the other coaches and years served:

Tony Sheehan (Richards) Pat Dunne (Marist) Dominic Passolano (Shepard) Brian Badke (Brother Rice) Mike Fahey (Stagg) Harold Blackmon (St. Laurence) Nick Novak (Oak Lawn) Nick Cook (Chicago Christian)

8 8 7 4 3 3 1 1

Note: Evergreen Park is in the process of hiring a new coach.

Sandburg’s Dave Wierzal, the longest area tenured football coach, turned in his resignation last week.

But don’t expect him to stay away from the sport for very long.

“I miss it already,” he said a few days after leaving his post as Eagles boss, a job he has held for nine seasons.

Wierzal, the son of former Reavis football coach Dennis Wierzal, has football in his blood and while he is not sure what his next move is going to be, he said he is open to coaching on the lower levels, including at Sandburg.

“A lot will depend on the new coach,” Wierzal said. “He may want his own staff. But if he wants me to coach on the lower levels, I will be happy to do it.’’

Wierzal had a 53-37 mark and the Eagles made it to the playoffs in seven of his nine years.

But he said that early in his career, he wanted to turn the Eagles into a consistent state power and since his team didn’t win conference titles or advance past the second round of the playoffs, it was “unacceptable.’’

This year, the Eagles were a twopoint conversion away from beating See WIERZAL, Page 2

RED STARS COMING HOME Vorva writes about Red Stars’ return to Toyota Park Page 2

Photo by Jeff Vorva

Dave Wierzal resigned as Sandburg’s football coach after nine seasons on the job, which was the longest tenure among area coaches.

BASEBALL IN DECEMBER Cubs hitting coach John Mallee visited Marist to talk about his craft Page 5

2

Section 2 Thursday, December 17, 2015

The Regional News - The Reporter

Red Stars hope for bigger kick returning to Toyota Park I n an area such as this, where professional teams such as the Bears, Cubs, White Sox, Bulls and Blackhawks have such a stranglehold on sports fans, it’s hard to break in and survive.

So when a new venture of a women’s soccer team popped up in 2009, I have to admit that I figured it would last three or four years before dissolving like many other sports ventures that dared to go up against the big five.

But the Chicago Red Stars are still around. They have gone through rocky times and I’m not actually sure how strong and stable the organization is financially, but I do know two things: 1) They are still here.

2) They are coming back home.

The team announced last Thursday that it will play its 2016 home games back at the 20,000-seat Toyota Park in Bridgeview. The Red Stars started there in 2009 and 2010 and left for the 3,000-seat Benedictine University venue in Lisle for the last five years.

Coming home will be like a new beginning for the franchise.

“In 2016, it’s time to return to our original home — Toyota Park. Our fans and sponsors will now enjoy an exciting game day environment in a major league stadium, while our players and the rest of the teams throughout the NWSL will enjoy the benefits of competing on a world class, natural grass pitch,” said Arnim Whisler,

RED STARS THROUGH THE YEARS

JEFF VORVA

Year 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

Making the Extra Point owner of the Chicago Red Stars in a statement. “It was hard to leave Toyota Park in 2010, but we are thankful for the warm reception and incredible support of Benedictine University and the Village of Lisle over the last three years. It gave us an intimate and affordable setting as our club and the league have grown.”

Bridgeview Mayor Steve Landek said Thursday he is glad to see the Red Stars back in his town.

“Women’s soccer has been growing and we think they can get a couple of thousand fans per game next year,” he said. “This is exciting.’’

The trouble with women’s soccer is that the casual fan only seems to get excited about it when the USA does well in the World Cup. One selling point for the Red Stars is that the National Women’s Soccer League is so strong that fans will get to see every member of the 2015 World Cup champs on their respective team at Toyota Park in 2016.

Another selling point is the price.

Officials say that more than 25 percent of the seating will be priced at

Supplied photo

The Chicago Red Stars are back in Toyota Park and many of the top players from last year’s World Cup champs will be making appearances in Bridgeview.

$25 or less.

Also, parking will be free.

So in this second go-around at Toyota Park, the organization has a solid game plan.

But what is on the field will be just as important.

In 2009, the Red Stars won their first game of the year and then proceeded to go nine straight games

By Anthony Nasella Correspondent

Photo by Jeff Vorva

Sandburg’s Lauren O’Leary could be done for the season after suffering a knee injury.

Oak Forest, Thornwood, and Andrew.

Also in Class 4A, Oak Lawn will be competing in a sectional with a host site still to be determined and will feature Reavis St. Ignatius, Whitney Young, Hinsdale South, Downers Grove North, Downers Grove South, Proviso West, Hinsdale Central, Lyons Township., Proviso East, Riverside-Brookfield and Argo.

Two Class 3A sectionals that feature local teams still have a host yet to be determined. In one sectional, Evergreen Park is in the sub-sectional with Morgan Park, Hillcrest, Tinley Park and Brooks. Sub-Sectional B features Providence, Lincoln-Way West, Rich East and Rich South.

Continued from Page 1 Palatine in the opening round of the Class 8A playoffs this season.

Three rounds later, Palatine gave eventual state champion Loyola a scare in a 24-22 loss in the state semifinals.

There are a lot of “ifs” and “buts” about how the Eagles would have fared in the postseason if they just made that conversion but in the end, Wierzal wasn’t satisfied where the program was going.

“We had some heartbreaking losses during the regular season,” he said. “But this isn’t about wins and losses. After the second year, I had a five-year program where I wanted this program to be. After eight years, we’re not there yet.’’

The timing of the resignation raised a few eyebrows because it came a week after news broke that one of his players, Marcus Payton, was charged by Orland Park police with two counts of misdemeanor criminal sexual abuse.

Wierzal said that had no bearing on his decision.

“Every year right after the season, I talk to my staff and we analyze what needs to be done and

League WPS WPS WPSL WPSL E NWSL NWSL NWSL

without a win and built up an ugly 451-minute stretch without a goal.

That doesn’t put fans in the seats.

The team has changed leagues a couple of times and had some decent seasons in Lisle and is coming off an 8-3-9 season and it made it to the semifinals of the National Women’s Soccer League Tournament. So the product on the field in 2016 should be

pretty decent.

The Southwest Regional Publishing group, of which this newspaper is a part of, plans on giving the Red Stars coverage we hope to step up our coverage on the Chicago Fire as well. The Fire has done an outstanding job staying alive despite the big five.

All the ingredients are there for a better experience at Toyota Park for the Red Stars this time.

Will the Red Stars be able to start knocking off one of the big five?

That’s highly doubtful.

But if they can put a product on the field that will bring fans back to Bridgeview game after game, perhaps they can carve a nice niche out for themselves and stay around awhile longer.

HIGH SCHOOL AND COMMUNITY NOTEBOOK

Tough sectional road ahead

Wierzal

Home venue Toyota Park Toyota Park Benedictine Benedictine Benedictine Benedictine Benedictine

WPS: Women’s Professional Soccer WPSL: Women’s Premier Soccer League WPSL E: Women’s Premier Soccer League Elite NWSL: National Women’s Soccer League

FOCUS ON GIRLS BASKETBALL

When Sandburg and Marist faced each other in last season’s championship of the Class 4A Marist Regional, the Eagles came away with a thrilling 61-57 victory over the RedHawks for their first regional title in a decade in advancing to the Lincoln-Way North Sectional.

Both Marist and Sandburg will be in the same sectional again, this time being hosted by Eisenhower, for the 2015-16 IHSA tournament – along with Richards, Shepard, Stagg and Mother McAuley.

And while Eagles Head Coach Chris Hellrung would love to see his team return to the regional title contest and advance again to the Mother McAuley sectional, right now he would be happy to have a healthy starting lineup for more than a week.

Sandburg lost six of its first 10 games and is trying to weather the storm of some serious physical setbacks. Star forward Victoria Stavropolous is just coming back from a dislocated knee cap injury that she sustained in the second quarter of the team’s opening game after she suffered a leg injury at the sectional last season.

Also, forward Lauren O’Leary is likely lost for the season due to a knee injury, which is thrusting Lisa Theriault – who Hellrung was grooming for an eventual starting role but was sidelined herself recently with a foot injury – into the lineup full time.

“We’re hanging in there, but the injuries have definitely slowed us up this season,” Hellrung said. “We’ve had injuries snowball on us for sure.

Everybody has had to pick up the slack and will have to all the more with O’Leary gone. Jess Merino has done a great job as has Grace Bauer.”

Sandburg, which is in this week’s Oak Lawn Tournament, will also compete this Christmas at the Hillcrest Holiday Classic, opens up against Oak Forest.

Also competing at Eisenhower will be the host Cardinals, Stagg, T.F North, Bloom Twp., Marian Catholic, Crete-Monee, Homewood-Flossmoor, Lincoln-Way East, Lincoln-Way North, Thornton, T.F. South, Bremen, Lincoln-Way Central,

Record 5-10-5 7-11-6 8-1-1 9-4-1 8-8-6 9-7-8 8-3-9

In the other sectional site to be determined, Queen of Peace (7-3 through Monday), will be competing in a large pool of teams which include De La Salle, Phillips, Lindblom, King, and 2014 sectional champion Bogan.

If the Pride keep up the pace they’ve started in the early going, a Queen of Peace-Bogan matchup for the sectional title is not out of the question.

In the Class 2A St. Joseph Sectional, Chicago Christian will be in the sub-sectional A with the likes of Bowen, Beecher, Carver Military Academy, and conference rival Illiana Christian. Sub sectional B features teams like Fenger, Tilden, Westmont, and St. Joseph.

Spartans dish out fall awards Oak Lawn Community High School recently had its Fall Sports Awards Night and several athletes were honored.

In golf, Chris Dunne and Justin Swatek were team Co-Most Valuable Players, while Sean Baldwin and Liam Blake shared the Sportsmanship Award.

Dunne was an all-conference selection as well.

In girls cross country, Tasneem Jaber was the MVP and was an all-conference selection, while Jade Ryerson earned the Sportsmanship Award.

In boys cross country, Steve Raybould was the team MVP and Eric Sciaky was the Sportsmanship Award winner. Raybould and Diego Arana were all-conference selections.

In boys soccer, team MVPs were Michal Szaflarski and Giovanni Barragan, while Michael Ciezczak was the Sportsmanship Award winner. Szaflarski, Barragan and Mohammad Farraj were allconference members.

In girls swimming, sisters Hannah and Ellie Featherstone shared team MVP honors. The sportsmanship award went to Alyssa Bitner and Nayomi Delvalle.

All-conference awards went to Ellie Featherstone in the 200 freestyle, Shannon Mottl in the 100 backstroke, the 200 freestyle relay team of Hannah Featherstone, Ellie Featherstone, Olivia Lizak and Alyssa Bitner, and the 200-medley relay team of Hannah Featherstone, Ellie Featherstone, Bitner and Mottl.

In girls tennis, team MVP awards went to Julia Kasprzak and Giana Thorell, and LeAnn Peschel was the Sportsmanship Award winner.

In girls volleyball, team MVP was Alli Yacko and the Sportsmanship Award went to Rebecca Suarez. Yacko was all-conference, and Sam Lesiak was honorable mention all-conference.

As the team, the Spartans were voted the 2015-16 South Suburban Conference Red Sportsmanship Award.

In Football, team MVP was Luca Jimenez and the Sportsmanship Award winner was Joe Quigley. All-conference selections were Jimenez, Quintin Prince, and David Ward.

Oak Lawn baseball/softball registration open

Registration still open during December for the Oak Lawn Baseball and Softball for kids ages 4-18.

The organization provides instructional leagues for boys and girls, and progress into competitive play for the

older ages. Registration for the spring on is online at www.oaklawnbaseball.com .

PBO registration still open

PBO Registration for the 2016 season is still available. You can register online through the PBO website. Click on the Registration Link on the Registration tab.

Please see the PBO website for more details on the registration and the program at www.palosbaseball.org.

Marist hosts trio of camps

Marist High School’s athletic department will offer three camp options for grade school students this winter.

A softball camp, led by state championship coach Colleen Biebel, will be held Monday. The cost for the session is $30. Times vary by date and grade.

The baseball and football programs will offer camps in late December for seventh- and eighth-grade boys. Football coach Pat Dunne will run a session Dec. 28, from 9 a.m. to noon. He and his staff will help campers increase speed and improve position skills.

On Dec. 29, baseball coach Kevin Sefcik will run a camp from 9 a.m. to noon that will help players improve batting and offensive and defensive skills. The cost of each camp day is $25. Students who register for both camps receive the discount price of $40.

All camps will be held indoors. Campers should wear athletic shoes, and bring bats and gloves for baseball and softball camps. Registration is available online at www.marist.net. For more information, contact the Marist athletic department at 773-881-5310.

Oak Lawn hosting baseball camp

Oak Lawn High School is hosting a six-week baseball camp starting Jan. 3.

Oak Lawn head coach Bill Gerny will direct the program in conjunction with U.S. Baseball Academy. Classes are available for players in grades 1-12 and are limited to six players per coach. Sessions are offered in advanced hitting, pitching, catching, fielding and baserunning. Space is limited. Registration is now under way. For more information, visit www.USBaseballAcademy.com, or call toll-free 866-622-4487.

We welcome submissions from the community at sports@regionalpublishing.com

how we need to get better,” he said. “We’ve done it again this year as well. I started considering resigning before that happened.’’

Eagles Athletic director Mark Krusz said he will not comment on a new hire until after tonight’s (Thursday’s) District 230 board meeting.

Wierzel’s resignation won’t be official until it is approved by the board.

But the athletic director said: “Dave is a quality person and a quality coach. He has influenced the lives of many young men that have come through Sandburg. The experiences he helped create for our athletes, students, alumni, staff and the entire community will be hard to duplicate. He should be proud of the program he has created” “It is difficult to accept a resignation from an individual who has had such a positive influence on student athletes and coaching staff,” Sandburg Principal Deb Baker said. “We are, however, inspirited by the fact that Coach Wierzal has expressed an interest to continue his involvement at the lower levels, which we will be more than happy to consider.”

With Wierzal’s exit, Marist’s Pat Dunne and Richards’ Tony Sheehan now share the longest Photos by Jeff Vorva tenure with eight years each from the 10 schools Richards’ Tony Sheehan (left photo) and Marist’s Pat Dunne are now the co-deans of area football coaches with in the Reporter-Regional area. eight years each in the wake of Dave Wierzal’s resignation.

BASKETBALL

The Regional News - The Reporter

Thursday, December 17, 2015 Section 2

3

AREA HOOPS AT A GLANCE

Photo by Jeff Vorva

Stagg’s Shane McMahon dives and steals the ball in the closing seconds of a stunning win over Joliet West.

BOYS Brother Rice Chicago Christian Evergreen Park Marist Oak Lawn Richards Sandburg Shepard Stagg St. Laurence

6-3 7-1 2-6 6-1 2-5 5-3 3-4 1-6 6-1 1-6

W1 W5 L4 W1 L3 W1 L3 L6 W5 L1

host St. Rita, Fri.; host St. Ignatius Tue. host Guerin, Fri.; host IC Sat. at Tinley Park, Sat.; at Indianapolis Open, Wed. host Marian Cent., Fri.; host RedHawk Invite, Thur., Sat., Mon., Tue., Wed. at Lemont, Fri. host T.F. South. Fri. at York Tournament, Dec. 26 at Oak Forest, Fri. at Joliet Central, Mon. host Seton, Fri.

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

2-6 6-6 8-2 6-4 4-6 7-2 3-2 4-6 0-9 1-8

L1 L1 L1 W1 L1 L1 W1 W1 L9 L6

at Elmwood Park, Fri.; at IC Prep, Sat. host Tinley Park, Thur.; at Ag School Tourn. Mon.-Wed. at Nike Tournament in Phoenix, Fri.-Tue. at LWE Tournament, Mon. and Wed. host Lemont, Fri.; host Oak Lawn Tourn., Sat. host Kennedy, Thur.; at Stagg, Sat.; at R-B Tourn. Wed. at T.F. South, Thur.; at Ag. School Tourn., Mon.-Wed. at Lockport, Thur.; at Oak Lawn Tourn., Sat. at Oak Forest, Thur.; at R-B Tourn., Wed. host Queen of Peace, Sat.

• All records through Saturday, Dec. 12

STAGG 85, JOLIET WEST 79

Wolterink, Knights Big smiles after Chargers stun Tigers perform last-minute surgery on Illiana

By Jeff Vorva Sports Editor

Stagg staggered through a 13-16 record last year but it didn’t take the players long to realize that 2015-16 would be different.

“After the first few days of practice, we knew we were going to be something special this year,” junior John Contant said.

The rest of the area is finding that out, too.

The Chargers let the rest of the SouthWest Suburban Conference know they mean business when they stunned Joliet West, 85-79 Friday night in Palos Hills. West entered the game 6-0 and ranked 12th in the Chicago area by two Chicago newspapers.

Stagg (6-1 overall) and Joliet Central are the final two teams in the conference unbeaten at 2-0 and the two will hook up in Joliet Monday.

Contant had 30 points against the Tigers, junior Josh Strama added 22 and junior Tom Kazanecki had 14.

The play of the game came in the closing seconds when Joliet West rolled the ball on the court to try to save time off the clock but as the ball passed half court and was ready to roll into a waiting hands of Jason Bingham, Stagg senior Shane McMahon dove to the ground to intercept it.

Coach John Daniels said it’s just the second time in his 12year career he saw one of his players do that.

“What you saw there is a great depiction of a captain,” Daniels said. “He goes all out and goes as hard as he can all the time. He’s our personality and the kids feed off of him. It’s nice to have that senior leadership with some of the young kids we have out there.’’

McMahon, who was a crowd favorite all night as members of the student section held up an oversized photo of his smiling face, said that’s the way he always plays.

“Coach Daniels always says it’s not about the size of the dog in the fight, it’s about the size

By Phil Arvia Correspondent

Above: Stagg fans cheer and hold up an oversized photo of the smiling face of senior guard Shane McMahon during the Chargers’ stunning win over Joliet West Friday night.

Left: John Contant scored 30 points against West and the top three Chargers scorers were juniors who accounted for 66 points on the night.

Photos by Jeff Vorva

of the fight in the dog,” McMahon said. “What I lack in size, I make up for in hustle and hard work. I’m out here grinding.’’

Bingham and Trevian Bell each had 19 points for West.

One of the keys to the game

was free throw shooting as Stagg shot 23 for 28 at the line and West was 8 for 20.

“We heard all about them and about their players and about their style of play,” McMahon said. “We tried to come

together with this game. We came together as one. As a unit.

As a team. The bench was into the game. That was a team win right there.

“And this was a big win for the school.’’

OK, so Trevor Wolterink ranks in the top five of his senior class at Chicago Christian.

And he got a 34 on his ACT. And he’s planning on a career as a surgeon, probably after playing college baseball.

“I don’t doubt he’ll do it, either,” Knights basketball coach Kevin Pittman said. “He does whatever he sets his mind to.”

Sure, but two critical offensive rebounds off of missed free throws in the final 39 seconds of a game in the pulsating gym of the Knights’ biggest rivals and defending conference champs?

“Those two rebounds — that’s why we win that ballgame,” Pittman said Friday after Chicago Christian escaped the Illiana Christian gym with a 50-44, Metro Suburban Conference win. “Those are two of the biggest offensive rebounds I can remember seeing in a ballgame in a long, long time.”

With 39.4 seconds to play and the Knights up 45-41, Wolterink corralled a Jay Spencer miss.

The ball eventually found its way back to Spencer, who was fouled with 33.5 seconds left and made the second of two freebies.

After an Illiana 3-pointer cut the lead to 46-44, the Vikings put Malik Parker on the line with 12.1 seconds to play. Again a split pair, and again Wolterink with the rebound — though this time he was fouled immediately and canned both free throws to essentially seal the win with 9.5 seconds remaining.

“I just tried to get my body low and leveraged (the defender) out of the way,” Wolterink said.

Wolterink finished with a game-high 15 points and added six rebounds. Jack Ellison had 11 points while Spencer had a team-high 10 rebounds as the Knights won their seventh straight to improve to 7-1, 2-0.

Illiana (6-3, 1-1) was led by 11 points from Matthew Zandstra and Sam Vree’s 14 rebounds.

The game was a sloppy but spirited affair, deadlocked at 2 five minutes in. Chicago Christian led by as many as seven points in the second quarter, while Illiana was up five at one point in the third, which ended with the score knotted at 34.

The atmosphere was fitting for rivalry game, played in a packed gym that featured Illiana’s student section decked out in red and green Christmas gear — with the exception of one fan wearing an outfit essentially identical to Pittman’s purple shirt, gray pants and yellow tie.

“The little bugger saw what I was wearing and went home and changed,” Pittman said, laughing. “You could have a marble tournament against these two schools and it’d be like this.”

It helped that both teams had already beaten Timothy Christian--which finished tied for the league crown with the Vikings last season, just ahead of the Knights.

“It’s a huge win,” Wolterink said. “(Illiana is) one of the better teams in the conference and our biggest rival by far — we had a whole spirit week dedicated to it.”

During the week, one of Daylon Washington’s friends won the ugly Christmas sweater contest with an Illiana-themed entry. Washington went his buddy one better by making a play nearly as crucial as Wolterink’s rebounding heroics.

With the Knights up by one, Washington stepped in front of an Illiana pass, intercepted it and went to the basket for a left-handed layup at the 1:24 mark, making the lead 44-41.

That capped his scoring at nine points, not that he was keeping track.

“We’ve been playing together for a while — Trevor and Jay have been on the varsity since they were sophomores, I have since I was a freshman,” Washington said. “When Malik (a transfer from Marist) joined us, everything just clicked.”

FOCUS ON BOYS BASKETBALL

Sectionals will be a challenge for area teams

By Anthony Nasella Correspondent

Marist head coach Gene Nolan has a coaching philosophy that is rooted in the process of progress.

And while the RedHawks are off to an early 5-1 start to the season, Nolan is patiently holding to that philosophy – even as sectional assignments for the IHSA State Tournament were released last week and as the team readies itself for the always-competitive and challenging Centralia Holiday Tournament.

Marist will join Brother Rice, Richards, Oak Lawn and Shepard at the deep and talented Class 4A Bloom Township Sectional starting in February.

Also competing in the sectional will be Simeon, Honewood-Flossmoor, Eisenhower, Reavis, T.F. North, Hubbard, St. Rita, Washington, Bloom Twp., Marian Catholic, CreteMonee, Thornton, T.F. South, Bremen, Oak Forest, Thornwood, and Argo.

“I tell my kids we’re not a resulted-oriented program,” Nolan said. “We’re a process-oriented program. In that process, we always want to see progress. And early in the season, we have been progressing. It’s been good, but we have a long way to go and our kids know that.”

Being led by the likes of Maurice Commander, Kevin Lerma and Morgan Taylor,

Nolan said the team learned well from last year’s seniors.

“We have had good leadership so far this year and great chemistry,” he said. “We’re excited about their great work habits and that they’re developing an identity of their own. We’ve had a good balance of interior and perimeter shooting, and everyone is doing a good job of sharing the basketball.”

At the Class 4A Lockport Sectional, Sandburg and Stagg will join Bolingbrook, LincolnWay East, Lincoln-Way North, Joliet Central, Joliet West, Lemont, Lockport, Minooka, Neuqua Valley, Lincoln-Way Central, Oswego East, Oswego, Plainfield Central, Plainfield East, Plainfield North, Plainfield South, Romeoville, Andrew and Yorkville.

In Class 3A, St. Laurence hosts its own sectional and along with Evergreen Park will be joined by the likes of the Chicago area’s top team Morgan Park plus Bogan, Brooks, Chicago Vocational, DuSable, Harlan, Hyde Park, Julian, King, Lindblom, Mt. Carmel, and South Shore.

At the Class 2A Clifton Central Sectional, a presently hot Chicago Christian team will compete in sub Sectional B with Aurora Christian, Beecher, St. Edward, IC Catholic, Timothy Christian, Illiana Christian, Lisle, Momence, Southland College Prep Charter, and Westmont.

The Sub-Sectional A features Reed-Custer, Clifton Central, Dwight, E.P.-Gridley, Putnam County, Bishop McNamara, Fieldcrest, St. Bede, Seneca, Spring Valley Hall, Wilmington.

Holiday Tournament rundown

At the York Holiday Tournament, St. Laurence kicks off the event with a 9 a.m. contest against Downers Grove South. Sandburg will face Conant at noon, and Stagg will battle Waubonsie Valley at 6 p.m.

At Centralia, Marist will conclude the first night of action on December 28 with a 9:15 p.m. game against O’Fallon. The tournament includes three teams from Tennessee and a team from Kentucky as well as downstate teams like Alton, Mt. Vernon, Jacksonville and the host Orphans.

Last year, Marist defeated St. Laurence for 13th place.

“We’re starting the information gathering phase on O’Fallon,” Nolan said. “We definitely be prepared. We’re definitely looking forward to the tournament again. It’s such a great trip for our kids. It’s a real team bonding over three or four days, and the kids always enjoy it.

“It’s also great to experience a different brand of basketball downstate and a different style of play. It’s a good learning experience for the kids.”

Photo by Jeff Vorva

Maurice Commander and Marist’s boys basketball team will be in a tough tournament in Centralia later this month and at the tough Bloom Township Sectional later this season.

4

Section 2 Thursday, December 17, 2015

The Regional News - The Reporter

Cougars are having fun at No. 1

SXU women preparing for opponents’ best after earning top ranking

By Jeff Vorva Sports Editor

They know what’s coming.

For the first time in school history, St. Xavier University was ranked No. 1 in the nation among NAIA Division II schools and the players know that every team is going to be giving the Cougars their best shot.

The Cougars first game since receiving the top ranking last week came against winless Trinity Christian Saturday in Palos Heights. The Trolls hung around for a half before the Cougars stepped on the gas and ran away with a 74-50 victory.

“It definitely puts a target on our back,” said sophomore Kara Krolicki, who had 15 points in the game. “Teams are going to come up play their best games against us because if you beat No. 1, you made history yourself. We understand that no matter what their record is, they are coming after us.

Trinity Christian played a great game against us. We have to be ready against every team.’’

SXU (11-0) is the area version of the Carolina Panthers and it will be interesting to see how long the winning streak and top ranking last.

Veteran Cougars coach Bob Hallberg is already looking at the near future for a potential setback. The team hopes it won’t be lozin’ in the Florida Cruzin’ Classic in Ft. Lauderdale Saturday and Sunday. Davenport University is 9-2 and John Brown University is a top 20 team in NAIA Division I. “We have two tough ones in Florida coming up,” Hallberg said. “John Brown is ranked 13th in the Division I side of the NAIA. And we have a group of games in January where we play all of the tough teams in our conference in a row – Olivet, Cardinal Stritch, Purdue Calumet and St. Francis, who is undefeated. We started out with the easy part of the conference and then there are a lot of tough ones.’’

So the coach’s advice is to the players is savor this feeling as long as they can.

Thus far, the hype and hoopla surrounding the team is minimal. Hallberg said the team got a mention on the WBBM-TV news

Hallberg over the moon with his team’s accomplishment

By Jeff Vorva Sports Editor

Photo by Jeff Vorva

St. Xavier sophomore Kara Krolicki gets a face full of hair courtesy of Trinity’s Alexis Knake in Saturday’s 74-50 SXU win. It was the first game the Cougars played since picking up the NAIA Division II No. 1 ranking in the nation.

and he and Krolicki were scheduled for an appearance on CLTV Wednesday night.

“It’s minor but any kind of hoopla is nice for us,” Hallberg said. “We don’t get ESPN following us too much so it’s nice to get some hoopla. We’ve enjoyed the attention.

“It’s extremely special and most players this age don’t even realize it,’’ he said. “For the rest of your life, you are able to say you were ranked No. 1. A lot of basketball play-

ers never play on a winning team.’’

The Cougars have been ranked No. 2 in the past but never reached the top until this year after then-No. 1 Morningside was knocked off.

In the Trinity game junior Sarah Vozel also had 15 points and the Cougars collected 17 steals.

Trinity’s Bethany Jansma led the Trolls with 13 points and Celina Wanta added 11.

Some coaches are stoic and too cool to admit they get a kick out of milestones and accomplishments.

But St. Xavier University women’s basketball coach Bob Hallberg is enjoying the fact that after last week’s rankings came out and the Cougars were ranked No. 1 in the nation among NAIA Division II schools, he became the only coach in college hoops history to take a men’s and women’s team to No. 1.

The Oak Lawn resident let it sink in and was genuinely pleased with the never-beendone feat.

“I’ve done something no one else has done,” he said.

“There are very few people in this world that can say they did something that nobody else has done. If you climb Mt. Everest, you are not the only guy who did it. More than one guy have walked on the moon. Nobody’s done what I’ve done not only in NAIA but any level.

“You kind of stand alone and that’s a very proud accomplishment. A lot of coaches have won a lot of games but no one can say they coached a men’s team and a women’s team to No. 1.

I’m kind of proud of that.’’

He was at the helm of the Chicago State University men’s basketball team during the 1982-83 season and Hallberg guided those Cougars to the NAIA’s top spot in a national poll released on Jan. 24, 1983.

In his 16th season leading the

FOCUS ON ST. XAVIER UNIVERSITY/TRINITY CHRISTIAN COLLEGE

Photo by Jeff Vorva

SXU coach Bob Hallberg, an Oak Lawn resident, has coached a men’s team and now a women’s team to a No. 1 ranking in the nation.

SXU women’s team, Hallberg has done it again.

Another bragging right he has is that he has been coaching in Chicago his entire career.

He is a Hall of Fame member at Leo High School, Saint Xavier University, University of Illinois-Chicago, the Illinois Basketball Coaches Association, Chicagoland Sports Hall of Fame and Chicago State University. The basketball court at SXU was dedicated and named in his honor in November, 2013.

The coach finds it amusing that this new attention for his No. 1 men’s/women’s double milestone has some people surprised.

“A lot of people didn’t know I coached men’s basketball,” he said. “It’s a memory type of thing. It’s a long time ago and some people didn’t realize that we won a lot of games at Chicago State.’’

FOCUS ON MORAINE VALLEY

The Moore the merrier as SXU beats Trinity at buzzer Basketball teams Trinity Christian led most of the game Saturday but a layup as time expired by senior guard Stanley Moore (Rockton/Sauk Valley CC/RocktonHononegah) gave the Saint Xavier University men’s basketball team a thrilling 74-73 road victory over Trinity Christian College in Chicagoland Collegiate Athletic Conference action Saturday afternoon at DeVos Gymnasium in Palos Heights.

The Cougars (5-5 overall/4-1 CCAC) trailed 48-35 early in the second half, but mounted a huge comeback and led by 10 (72-62) with three minutes left to play before the Trolls heated up for an 11-0 run and took a 73-72 lead on a three-point play by junior forward Jordan Perry with five seconds remaining.

Moore drove the length of the court in the final five seconds to lay-in the game-winning bucket.

Senior forward Tony Core (Matteson/Tinley Park) and junior point guard Kyle Huppe (Edgerton, Kan./ Gardner Edgerton) led the way for SXU scoring 18 points apiece. Core also pulled down seven rebounds for the Cougars, while sophomore guard Quinn Niego (Chicago/Brother Rice) chipped in 11 points and seven rebounds. Senior forward Mitch Uratchko (Streator/Mid-State Tech/Sauk Valley CC/Streator) also finished in double figures for Saint Xavier with 10 points.

Trinity Christian got off to a great start in the first half building an 11-point halftime advantage thanks to 62 percent shooting (18-for-29) from the field. However, the Cougars turned the tide and took a 58-56 lead

on a three-pointer by Core with 8:51 left to play. The momentum allowed SXU to extend its lead to 72-62 on a lay-up by sophomore guard Larry Motuzis (Darien/Hinsdale South) with 3:10 remaining. The Trolls did not falter though and scored 11 unanswered points over the next three minutes to take back the lead in the closing seconds on Perry’s big play.

Moore’s late-game heroics secured the conference road win to help SXU pick up its fourth win in the last five games.

Perry led the Trolls (4-7, 0-5) with 19 points and six rebounds. Myles Birgans had 17 points and five assists. Nari Garrett ended with 14 points and eight rebounds and Caleb Jonkman was in double-digit scoring with 11 points. Christian Cantu had eight assists.

pull out of skids

SXU blocker honored

Saint Xavier University junior middle blocker Melanie Miller (Chicago/ Western Illinois University/Kenwood Academy) was one of 14 players to earn a spot on the 2015 American Volleyball Coaches Association NAIA Mideast Region First Team when the teams were announced by the national organization Monday morning. Miller was also a first team selection on the 2015 All-Chicagoland Collegiate Athletic Conference Volleyball Team last month and led the Cougars in total blocks with 95, including a team-leading 27 solo stops. She also finished second on the team in kills with 300 and ranked fifth in the conference with a .298 attack percentage.

Photo by Jeff Vorva

St. Xavier’s Stanley Moore, shown in first-half action against Trinity Christian, had the game-winning buzzer-beating layup in the CCAC win Saturday.

“Melanie made an impact on our team the moment she stepped foot into our gym,” said SXU women’s volleyball coach Robert Heersema.

“Her physical strength and positive attitude filled a need for our team and it showed when she earned both this award and first team all-conference honors. I’m glad to see her get the recognition she deserves.”

Saint Xavier finished the 2015 sea-

son with an overall record of 21-13.

The Cougars finished in second place in the North Division of the CCAC with a 14-5 conference mark and earned the No. 4 seed in the eightteam conference tournament. SXU ended its season in the first round of the CCAC Volleyball Tournament.

Compiled by Jeff Vorva from submitted reports.

THE NEXT LEVEL

Vander Laan misses out on Campbell Award, but Hill repeat could be coming

By Jeff Vorva Sports Editor

Former Chicago Christian football star Jason Vander Laan was in the same room with Brian Bosworth, Jerry Jones, Coach Jim Tressel, Ricky Williams, Condolezza Rice and others.

Vander Laan, who closed out a historic career at Division II Ferris State, was among 12 finalists for the William V. Campbell Trophy, which recognizes the best football scholar-athlete in the nation at the Waldorf Astoria in New York City on Dec. 8 with some of the biggest names in the sport as a part of the National Football Foundation’s awards banquet.

Oklahoma center Ty Darlington won the award.

Vander Laan was one of only two non-NCAA Division I studentathletes as part of the group and the second-ever National ScholarAthlete Class member from Ferris State, joining former standout line-

backer Mike Klobucher downs and threw for (2006). another 27 to rank secVander Laan finished ond in Division II in his career with an NCAA points responsible for record for any division with 25.5 per game. He with 5,953 rushing yards completed 210 of 320 and if the only player in passes with just sevNCAA history to run at en interceptions and throw for at least 1,000 ranked ninth nationalyards in all four years of ly in passing efficiency play. with a 158.0 rating.

In his four seasons He may have lost out Vander Laan as the Bulldogs’ quaron the Campbell award terback, Vander Laan but was tabbed the naguided FSU to a 37-9 overall mark, tion’s top quarterback for the seconda pair of GLIAC Championships, straight year by the American Foottwo NCAA Playoff appearances and ball Coaches Association. back-to-back unbeaten regular seaVander Laan was chosen as an sons.

AFCA Division II All-America First Vander Laan completed his se- Team selection for the second connior season with 4,167 yards of to- secutive campaign and the only quartal offense after rushing for 1,542 terback from the country in Division yards and passing for 2,625 more. II football named to the All-America His 347.3 yards of total offense team compiled by the national coachper game ranked sixth nationally es organization. and he was also ninth in rushing at In addition, he’s among only three 128.5 yards per game. The senior of the eight Harlon Hill Trophy finalsignal caller rushed for 24 touch- ists chosen to the AFCA All-America

squad. The 2015 Harlon Hill Award recipient, which goes to the nation’s top player, will be announced on Friday with Vander Laan among the favorites as he aims to become a twotime recipient of the honor.

For love of Ivy

Also at the Waldorf in New York the night before Vander Laan was crossing his fingers for the Campbell Award, Oak Lawn’s Will McNamara was hoping to cop the Bushnell Cup as the Ivy League’s defensive MVP but lost out to Penn linebacker Taylor Drake.

McNamara, a linebacker for Dartmouth, helped his team earn a share of the Ivy League title for the first time in 19 years. He averaged 8.3 tackles per game in Ivy League action and had 3.5 tackles for losses this season and had two interception against Harvard on Oct. 30.

He was a star at St. Rita High School before heading to the Ivy League.

Moraine Valley’s women’s basketball team picked up some votes in the NJCAA Division II rankings but that was about the only good news the Cyclones received as they dropped a pair of games last week before racking up a win over the weekend.

The Cyclones hit a rock last Thursday as they battling some injuries and fell 74-58 to Rock Valley College.

The Golden Eagles are ranked fourth in the nation in the NJCAA Division III poll, making it a more challenging matchup for the battered Moraine Valley squad.

Michelle Borgen (Andrew) led the way with 28 points and nine boards. Freshman Erin Schaffrath (Bremen) chipped in nine points, three assists and three steals.

Both teams started the game slowly with the Cyclones up 11-9 at the end of the first quarter. However, Rock Valley picked up the pace in the second quarter while Moraine Valley struggled on offense.

The Cyclones were down by as much as 26 points, but fought back with a 16-0 run between the third and fourth quarters to get back to within 10. A string of Cyclone turnovers combined with 3-pointers by the Golden Eagles sealed the deal.

Two days before that, the Cyclones dropped a 65-56 defeat at home to Malcolm X College.

Borgen led the offense with 21 points. Erin Drynan (Mother McAuley) struggled offensively earned her fourth triple-double this season (11 points, 10 rebounds 11 blocked shots).

On Saturday, they broke the skid with a dominating 77-54 victory over Wright College. In region play, the Cyclones are now 2-0.

Three players posted double-doubles.

Drynan scored 21 points with 14 rebounds and five blocks. Borgen scored 20 with 17 rebounds and two blocks. Ashley Carroll (Beecher) had 11 points and 10 boards. Kailey Foster (Joliet West) chipped in 11 points off the bench with three 3-pointers.

X marks the spot for men’s basketball team

The streak is broken.

After a six-game skid, the Cyclones broke through with a 80-77 win over Malcolm X College on Dec. 8.

The Cyclones came out of the gate won the rebound battle 51-33.

Two players had double-doubles—Ermias Nega (Wakefield) was the offensive master with 31 points and added 13 rebounds and four assists while Tommy Demogerontas (Sandburg) had 14 points and 16 rebounds.

On Saturday, they beat Wright College, 9365.

This was the first time four players scored in double digits. Nega led the way again with 23 points. Luke Hook (Andrew) put up his first double-double this season (20 points, 10 rebounds). Demogerontas (16 points, six rebounds) and Oak Forest alum David Gray (12 points) also contributed.

Compiled by Jeff Vorva from submitted reports

The Regional News - The Reporter

Thursday, December 17, 2015 Section 2

5

Baseball in December at Marist

By Jeff Vorva Sports Editor

The night before the Cubs made huge news by signing Jason Heyward to a huge contract, the star outfielder’s new hitting coach was busy teaching his craft to more than 100 high school

and younger baseball players and their coaches.

John Mallee, who already had a hand in teaching Kris Bryant, Kyle Schwarber, Anthony Rizzo and others about the fine art of hitting in 2015, will now add Heyward to his group of students and he will be using some of the same theories with them that he used last Thursday night with Marist’s John Carmody, who was

the designated volunteer for some of Mallee’s drills.

Mallee’s two-hour seminar in the Marist gym featured detailed video breakdowns of major league swings, some hands-on demonstrations with Carmody and even some charts that might even challenge a physics or math teacher.

Below are some photos from the event.

Marist slugger John Carmody receives instruction from Cubs hitting coach John Mallee (left photo) and unleashes his swing under Mallee’s watchful eye (right photo).

Marist baseball coach Kevin Sefcik, a sevenyear player in the majors, introduces Cubs hitting coach John Mallee to the crowd.

Photos by Jeff Vorva Cubs hitting coach John Mallee follows through on a swing last Thursday night during a clinic at Marist High School.

The Marist doors featured a Cubs welcome for hitting coach John Mallee. The Cubs wave a flag with a blue W on it at Wrigley Field after victories.

During a break in the seminar, players were able to purchase batting gloves and other items at half price.

6

Section 2 Thursday, December 17, 2015

The Regional News - The Reporter

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7

Section 2 Thursday, December 17, 2015

The Regional News - The Reporter

For Sale

For Sale

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT - CHANCERY DIVISION MTGLQ INVESTORS, LP Plaintiff, -v.DANIEL J. BRODERICK III AKA DANIEL J. BRODERICK AKA DANIEL BRODERICK, JENNIFER L. BRODERICK AKA JENNIFER L. HOSTY, CITIBANK, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION F/K/A CITIBANK (SOUTH DAKOTA) N.A., LVNV FUNDING, LLC Defendants 14 CH 9567 10541 SOUTH KOLMAR AVENUE Oak Lawn, IL 60453 NOTICE OF SALE PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above cause on April 15, 2015, an agent for The Judicial Sales Corporation, will at 10:30 AM on January 6, 2016, 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 10541 SOUTH KOLMAR AVENUE, Oak Lawn, IL 60453 Property Index No. 24-15-125-013-0000.

The real estate is improved with a single family residence.

The judgment amount was $341,145.29.

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, or a 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 and the legal fees required by The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/9(g)(1) and (g)(4). In accordance with 735 ILCS 5/15-1507(c)(1)(h-1) and (h-2), 765 ILCS 605/9(g)(5), and 765 ILCS 605/18.5(g-1), you are hereby notified that the purchaser of the property, other than a mortgagee, shall pay the assessments and legal fees required by subsections (g)(1) and (g)(4) of section 9 and the assessments required by subsection (g-1) of section 18.5 of the Illinois Condominium Property Act. 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 the sales department, ANSELMO LINDBERG OLIVER LLC, 1771 W. Diehl Road, Suite 150, NAPERVILLE, IL 60563, (630) 453-6960 For bidding instructions, visit www.fal-illinois.com. Please refer to file number F14040175.

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.

ANSELMO LINDBERG OLIVER LLC 1771 W. Diehl Road, Suite 150 NAPERVILLE, IL 60563 (630) 453-6960 E-Mail: foreclosurenotice@fal-illinois.com Attorney File No. F14040175 Attorney ARDC No. 3126232 Attorney Code. 26122 Case Number: 14 CH 9567 TJSC#: 35-16929 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.

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT - CHANCERY DIVISION WELLS FARGO BANK, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, TRUSTEE FOR THE CERTIFICATEHOLDERS OF FIRST FRANKLIN MORTGAGE LOAN TRUST 2004-FF4, MORTGAGE PASS-THROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2004-FF4 Plaintiff, -v.SAWSON HADDAD A/K/A SAWSON R. HADDAD, RAJAEI HADDAD A/K/A RAJAEI J. HADDAD A/K/A RAY HADDAD, CHICAGO TITLE LAND TRUST COMPANY, AS TRUSTEE U/T/A DATED 1ST DAY OF APRIL, 1999 A/K/A TRUST NO. 1107004, INLAND BANK AND TRUST, MIDLAND FUNDING, LLC, INTEGRA BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, STATE OF ILLINOIS, UNKNOWN BENEFICIARIES OF CHICAGO TITLE LAND TRUST COMPANY, AS TRUSTEE U/T/A DATED 1ST DAY OF APRIL, 1999 A/K/A TRUST NO. 1107004, UNKNOWN OWNERS AND NONRECORD CLAIMANTS Defendants 11 CH 028055 17128 POINTE DRIVE ORLAND PARK, IL 60467 NOTICE OF SALE PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above cause on November 15, 2012, an agent for The Judicial Sales Corporation, will at 10:30 AM on January 7, 2016, 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 17128 POINTE DRIVE, ORLAND PARK, IL 60467 Property Index No. 27-29-313-003. The real estate is improved with a single family residence.

Sale terms: 25% down of the highest bid by certified funds at the close of the sale payable to The Judicial Sales Corporation. No third party checks will be accepted. The balance, 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, examine the court file or contact Plaintiff’s attorney: CODILIS & ASSOCIATES, P.C., 15W030 NORTH FRONTAGE ROAD, SUITE 100, BURR RIDGE, IL 60527, (630) 794-9876 Please refer to file number 14-11-18640.

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 Attorney File No. 14-11-18640 Attorney ARDC No. 00468002 Attorney Code. 21762 Case Number: 11 CH 028055 TJSC#: 35-16963 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.

I677122

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT - CHANCERY DIVISION WELLS FARGO BANK, N.A. SUCCESSOR BY MERGER TO WACHOVIA MORTGAGE, FSB SUCCESSOR BY MERGER TO WORLD SAVINGS BANK, FSB Plaintiff, -v.JEROME MILLER, ELISA MILLER Defendants 13 CH 06586 8711 WEST VAIL DRIVE 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 September 24, 2015, an agent for The Judicial Sales Corporation, will at 10:30 AM on January 4, 2016, 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 8711 WEST VAIL DRIVE, PALOS HILLS, IL 60465 Property Index No. 23-14-106-008-0000.

The real estate is improved with a two story, single family home with a two car detached garage. Sale terms: 25% down of the highest bid by certified funds at the close of the sale payable to The Judicial Sales Corporation. No third party checks will be accepted. The balance, 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: Visit our website at service. atty-pierce.com. between the hours of 3 and 5 pm.

PIERCE & ASSOCIATES, Plaintiff’s Attorneys, One North Dearborn Street Suite 1300, CHICAGO, IL 60602. Tel No. (312) 476-5500. Please refer to file number PA1105427. 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. PIERCE & ASSOCIATES One North Dearborn Street Suite 1300 CHICAGO, IL 60602 (312) 476-5500 Attorney File No. PA1105427 Attorney Code. 91220 Case Number: 13 CH 06586 TJSC#: 35-17250 I677566

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT - CHANCERY DIVISION HEARTLAND BANK AND TRUST COMPANY; Plaintiff, vs.

LEONARD R. GARGAS, AN INDIVIDUAL; FIRST NATIONAL BANK OF ILLINOIS, AS TRUSTEE UNDER TRUST AGREEMENT DATED APRIL 15, 1997 AND KNOWN AS TRUST NO. 4953; COURTYARD PROFESSIONAL OFFICE CENTER CONDOMINIUM, INC., AN ILLINOIS NOT-FORPROFIT CORPORATION; UNKNOWN TENANTS; UNKNOWN OWNERS AND NON RECORD CLAIMANTS; Defendants, 14 CH 14686 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 Friday, January 8, 2016, 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: Commonly known as 15414 S. Harlem Ave., Orland Park, IL 60462.

P.I.N. 27-13-201-041-1002.

The mortgaged real estate is a commercial condominium. The property may be made available for inspection by contacting Mr. Michael Beckerman of Triumph Real Estate at (630) 321-9556. If the subject mortgaged real estate is a unit of a common interest community, the purchaser of the unit other than a mortgagee shall pay the assessments required by subsection (g-1) of Section 18.5 of the condominium Property Act Sale terms: Bidders must present, at the time of sale, a cashier’s or certified check for 10% of the successful bid amount. The balance of the successful bid shall be paid within 24 hours, by similar funds.

For information call Mr. Robert L. Dawidiuk at The Collins Law Firm, PC, 1770 North Park Street, Naperville, Illinois 60563. (630) 527-1595.

INTERCOUNTY JUDICIAL SALES CORPORATION Selling Officer, (312) 444-1122 I677443

For Sale

For Sale

For Sale Public Notice Network 14-13-27927 Codilis Associates, P.C. IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT - CHANCERY DIVISION BANK OF AMERICA, N.A., Plaintiff, vs.

STEPHEN PLATOS, AS TRUSTEE FOR CHICAGO TITLE LAND TRUST COMPANY AS SUCCESSOR TRUSTEE TO FIRST NATIONAL BANK OF EVERGREEN PARK, AS TRUSTEE UNDER TRUST AGREEMENT DATED 1-21-1994 AND KNOWN AS TRUST NUMBER 13551, BMO HARRIS BANK, N.A. F/K/A HARRIS BANK, N.A., Defendants, 12 CH 19383 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, January 6, 2016 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: Commonly known as 9105 Woodland Drive, Hickory Hills, IL 60457.

P.I.N. 23-03-405-019.

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 Sale Clerk at Plaintiff’s Attorney, Codilis & Associates, P.C., 15W030 North Frontage Road, Burr Ridge, Illinois 60527. (630) 794-5300.

14-13-27927 INTERCOUNTY JUDICIAL SALES CORPORATION Selling Officer, (312) 444-1122 I677344

PLACE YOUR AD TODAY

For Sale Public Notice Network Ref. No. 15-01394 IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT - CHANCERY DIVISION FIFTH THIRD MORTGAGE COMPANY; Plaintiff, vs.

UNKNOWN HEIRS OF MICHAEL W. CUNNINGHAM; CLEARVIEW CONDOMINIUM VII ASSOCIATION AND COLLEEN ANN KEHOE AS EXECUTOR OF THE ESTATE OF MICHAEL W. CUNNINGHAM; UNKNOWN TENANTS, UNKNOWN OWNERS AND NONRECORD CLAIMANTS; Defendants, 15 CH 9242 NOTICE OF SALE PUBLIC NOTICE is hereby given that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure entered in the above entitled cause on September 24, 2015, Intercounty Judicial Sales Corporation will on Tuesday, January 5, 2016, 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: Commonly known as 15639 GARDEN VIEW CT., UNIT 2B, ORLAND PARK, IL 60462.

P.I.N. 27-13-401-036-1017.

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 within 24 hours, by certified funds. No refunds. The property will NOT be open for inspection.

For information call Mr. Ira T. Nevel at Plaintiff’s Attorney, Law Offices of Ira T. Nevel, 175 North Franklin Street,Chicago, Illinois 60606. (312) 357-1125.

Ref. No. 15-01394 INTERCOUNTY JUDICIAL SALES CORPORATION Selling Officer, (312) 444-1122 I677334

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NEW as of 7/7/11 For Sale IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT - CHANCERY DIVISION THE BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON F/K/A THE BANK OF NEW YORK, AS TRUSTEE FOR THE CERTIFICATEHOLDERS OF CWABS, INC., ASSET-BACKED CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2007-8 Plaintiff, -v.NABIL ABDELRAHMAN A/K/A NABIL RAHMAN A/K/A NABIL A. ABDELRAHMAN A/K/A NABEL REHEEM A/K/A NABIL A. RAHMAN A/K/A NABIL A. ABELDELRAHMAN, SAFA ABDELRAHMAN, ARROW FINANCIAL SERVICES, LLC, MIDLAND FUNDING LLC Defendants 12 CH 36476 10527 SOUTH VICKY LANE 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 October 5, 2015, an agent for The Judicial Sales Corporation, will at 10:30 AM on January 6, 2016, 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 10527 SOUTH VICKY LANE, Palos Hills, IL 60465 Property Index No. 23-13-111-015-0000.

The real estate is improved with a single family residence.

The judgment amount was $309,438.23.

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 The sales clerk, SHAPIRO KREISMAN & ASSOCIATES, LLC, 2121 WAUKEGAN RD., SUITE 301, Bannockburn, IL 60015, (847) 291-1717 between the hours of 1:00 p.m. and 3:00 p.m. only Please refer to file number 12-061480.

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.

SHAPIRO KREISMAN & ASSOCIATES, LLC 2121 WAUKEGAN RD., SUITE 301 Bannockburn, IL 60015 (847) 291-1717 Attorney File No. 12-061480 Attorney Code. 42168 Case Number: 12 CH 36476 TJSC#: 35-14644 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.

PUBLISHER’S NOTICE All Real Estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Fair Housing Act which makes it illegal to advertise “any preference, limitation or discrimination.� Familial status includes children under the age of 18 living with parents or legal custodians, pregnant women and people securing custody of children under 18.

This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. Our readers are herby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. To complain of discrimination call HUD toll-free at 1 (800) 669-9777. The toll-free telephone number for the hearing impaired is: 1 (800) 927-9275.

For Sale IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT - CHANCERY DIVISION BAYVIEW LOAN SERVICING LLC Plaintiff, -v.LAWRENCE A. WROBEL, MARILYNN J. WROBEL AKA MARILYNN J ZEITZ AKA MARILYNN ZEITZ WROBEL AKA MARILYNN WROBEL AKA MARILYN ZEITZ, JPMORGAN CHASE BANK, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION Defendants 12 CH 25923 9894 WEST 145TH STREET ORLAND PARK, IL 60462 NOTICE OF SALE PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above cause on October 13, 2015, an agent for The Judicial Sales Corporation, will at 10:30 AM on January 14, 2016, 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 9894 WEST 145TH STREET, ORLAND PARK, IL 60462 Property Index No. 27-09-216-053-0000.

The real estate is improved with a two story, single family home with an attached garage. Sale terms: 25% down of the highest bid by certified funds at the close of the sale payable to The Judicial Sales Corporation. No third party checks will be accepted. The balance, 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: Visit our website at service. atty-pierce.com. between the hours of 3 and 5 pm.

PIERCE & ASSOCIATES, Plaintiff’s Attorneys, One North Dearborn Street Suite 1300, CHICAGO, IL 60602. Tel No. (312) 476-5500. Please refer to file number PA1125799. 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. PIERCE & ASSOCIATES One North Dearborn Street Suite 1300 CHICAGO, IL 60602 (312) 476-5500 Attorney File No. PA1125799 Attorney Code. 91220 Case Number: 12 CH 25923 TJSC#: 35-14972 I677908

For Sale F13110209 Anselmo Lindberg Oliver LLC IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT - CHANCERY DIVISION WELLS FARGO BANK, N.A.; Plaintiff, vs.

MARK A. PELEGRINO AKA MARK PELEGRINO AKA MARK ANTHONY PELEGRINO; MIDLAND FUNDING, LLC CAPITAL ONE BANK (USA), N.A., SUCCESSOR IN INTEREST TO CAPITAL ONE BANK; OLD NATIONAL BANK S/B/M TO PRAIRIE BANK AND TRUST COMPANY AS TRUSTEE UNDER THE PROVISIONS OF A CERTAIN TRUST AGREEMENT DATED THE 18TH DAY OF APRIL, 2007 AND KNOWN AS TRUST NUMBER 07-040; UNKNOWN BENEFICIARIES TRUST AGREEMENT DATED THE 18TH DAY OF APRIL, 2007 AND KNOWN AS TRUST NUMBER 07-040; UNKNOWN OWNERS AND NON RECORD CLAIMANTS; Defendants, 13 CH 26293 Calendar 64 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, January 18, 2016 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: Commonly known as 7159 West 107th Street, Worth, Illinois 60482.

The mortgaged real estate is improved with a single family residence. If the subject mortgaged real estate is a unit of a common interest community, the purchaser of the unit other than a mortgagee shall pay the assessments required by subsection (g-1) of Section 18.5 of the Condominium Property Act. Sale terms: 10% down by certified funds, balance, by certified funds, within 24 hours. No refunds. The property will NOT be open for inspection For information call The Sales Department at Plaintiff’s Attorney, Anselmo Lindberg Oliver LLC, 1771 West Diehl Road, Naperville, Illinois 60563-1890.

(630) 453-6960. For Bidding instructions visit www. fal-illinois.com 24 hours prior to sale. F13110209 INTERCOUNTY JUDICIAL SALES CORPORATION Selling Officer, (312) 444-1122

For Sale

5 ACRES RT. 45 IN PEOTONE 600 ft. frontage x 400 ft. deep 40 ft. x 60 ft. pole barn CALL 815-450-0004

For Sale IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT - CHANCERY DIVISION WELLS FARGO BANK NA TRUSTEE FOR THE CERTIFICATEHOLDERS OF FIRST FRANKLIN MORTGAGE LOAN TRUST 2004-FF6, MORTGAGE PASS THROUGH CERTIFICATES SERIES 2004-FF6; Plaintiff, vs.

VIDA DOUGLAS AKA VIDA MIKLIUS; FIRST MIDWEST BANK AS ASSIGNEE OF THE FDIC AS RECEIVER FOR PALOS BANK AND TRUST COMPANY, AS TRUSTEE UNDER TRUST AGREEMENT DATED MARCH 5, 2007 AND KNOWN AS TRUST NUMBER 1-7143; UNKNOWN OWNERS, AND NONRECORD CLAIMANTS; Defendants, 12 CH 34155 NOTICE OF SALE PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above entitled cause on October 14, 2015 Intercounty Judicial Sales Corporation will on Monday, January 18, 2016 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. 23-26-300-005-0000.

Commonly known as 12321 S. 88th Avenue, Palos Park, IL 60464.

The mortgaged real estate is improved with a single family residence. If the subject mortgaged real estate is a unit of a common interest community, the purchaser of the unit other than a mortgagee shall pay the assessments required by subsection (g-1) of Section 18.5 of the Condominium Property Act. Sale terms: 10% down by certified funds, balance, by certified funds, within 24 hours.

No refunds. The property will NOT be open for inspection For information call Mr. Frederic Deraiche at Plaintiff’s Attorney, Kluever & Platt, L.L.C., 65 East Wacker Place, Chicago,Illinois 60601.

(312) 236-0077.

SPSL.0203 INTERCOUNTY JUDICIAL SALES CORPORATION Selling Officer, (312) 444-1122 I678837

For Sale Public Notice Network Ruff, Freud, Breems and Nelson, Ltd. IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT - CHANCERY DIVISION THE BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON; Plaintiff, vs.

MARK J. HOLDA, ET AL; Defendants, REPUBLIC BANK OF CHICAGO; Counter - Plaintiff, vs.

MARK J. HOLDA AKA MARK HOLDA AKA MARK J. HOLDA; LYDIA MICHELLE HOLDA FKA LYDIA ROJAS AKA LYDIA MICHELLE HOLDA; HOLDA ENTERPRISES, INC.; FIRST MIDWEST BANK, SUCCESSOR BY MERGER TO PALOS BANK AND TRUST COMPANY, AS TRUSTEE UNDER TRUST AGREEMENT DATED DECEMBER 13, 2000 AND KNOWN AS TRUST NUMBER 1-5000; LOMA VISTA NURSERY; CHRYSLER FINANCIAL SERVICES AMERICAS LLC DBA CHRYSLER FINANCIAL FKA DAIMLERCHRYSLER FINANCIAL SERVICES AMERICA, LLC; STATE OF ILLINOIS; CAPITAL ONE BANK, (USA), N.A., CITY OF PALOS HEIGHTS; THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA; DEPARTMENT OF TREASURY; UNKNOWN BENEFICIARIES OF TRUST AGREEMENT DATED DECEMBER 13, 2000 AND KNOWN AS TRUST NUMBER 1-5000; UNKNOWN OWNERS AND NON RECORD CLAIMANTS; Counter - Defendants 12 CH 8082 NOTICE OF SALE PUBLIC NOTICE is hereby given that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure entered in the above entitled cause Intercounty Judicial Sales Corporation will on Monday, January 18, 2016, 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. 24-31-107-010-0000.

Commonly known as 6833 West 127st Street, Palos Heights, IL 60463.

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. THE SALE SHALL BE SUBJECT TO GENERAL TAXES, SPECIAL ASSESSMENTS AND TO A PRIOR RECORDED FIRST MORTGAGE. Sale terms: Bidders must present, at the time of sale, a cashier’s or certified check for 10% of the successful bid amount. The balance of the successful bid shall be paid within 24 hours, by similar funds. The property will NOT be open for inspection.

For information call Mr. Brandon R. Freud at Plaintiff’s Attorney, Ruff, Freud, Breems and Nelson, Ltd., 200 North LaSalle Street, Chicago, Illinois 60601.

(312) 263-3890.

INTERCOUNTY JUDICIAL SALES CORPORATION Selling Officer, (312) 444-1122 I678834

8

Section 2 Thursday, December 17, 2015

The Regional News - The Reporter

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IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT - CHANCERY DIVISION CITIZENS BANK, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION F/K/A RBS CITIZENS, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION. SUCCESSOR BY MERGER TO CHARTER ONE BANK, N.A. F/K/A CHARTER ONE BANK, F.S.B. SUCCESSOR BY MERGER TO ST. PAUL FEDERAL BANK FOR SAVINGS Plaintiff, -v.ROBERT E. SANGOSTI, SUSAN M. SANGOSTI, JPMORGAN CHASE BANK, NA Defendants 15 CH 008652 8020 BINFORD DRIVE ORLAND PARK, IL 60462 NOTICE OF SALE PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the above cause on September 2, 2015, an agent for The Judicial Sales Corporation, will at 10:30 AM on January 12, 2016, 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 8020 BINFORD DRIVE, ORLAND PARK, IL 60462 Property Index No. 27-02-415-012. 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 \�AS IS\� condition. The sale is further subject to confirmation by the court. Upon payment in full of the amount bid, the purchaser will receive a Certificate of Sale that will entitle the purchaser to a deed to the real estate after confirmation of the sale.

The property will NOT be open for inspection and plaintiff makes no representation as to the condition of the property. Prospective bidders are admonished to check the court file to verify all information. If this property is a condominium unit, the purchaser of the unit at the foreclosure sale, other than a mortgagee, shall pay the assessments and the legal fees required by The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/9(g)(1) and (g)(4). If this property is a condominium unit which is part of a common interest community, the purchaser of the unit at the foreclosure sale other than a mortgagee shall pay the assessments required by The Condominium Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/18.5(g-1). IF YOU ARE THE MORTGAGOR (HOMEOWNER), YOU HAVE THE RIGHT TO REMAIN IN POSSESSION FOR 30 DAYS AFTER ENTRY OF AN ORDER OF POSSESSION, IN ACCORDANCE WITH SECTION 15-1701(C) OF THE ILLINOIS MORTGAGE FORECLOSURE LAW. You will need a photo identification issued by a government agency (driver’s license, passport, etc.) in order to gain entry into our building and the foreclosure sale room in Cook County and the same identification for sales held at other county venues where The Judicial Sales Corporation conducts foreclosure sales. For information, examine the court file or contact Plaintiff’s attorney: CODILIS & ASSOCIATES, P.C., 15W030 NORTH FRONTAGE ROAD, SUITE 100, BURR RIDGE, IL 60527, (630) 794-9876 Please refer to file number 14-15-08655.

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 Attorney File No. 14-15-08655 Attorney ARDC No. 00468002 Attorney Code. 21762 Case Number: 15 CH 008652 TJSC#: 35-13371 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.

I677053

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT - CHANCERY DIVISION WELLS FARGO BANK, N.A. Plaintiff, -v.MARY PAWLAK A/K/A MARY MARGARET PAWLAK Defendants 13 CH 9550 10515 SOUTH 84TH AVENUE 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 October 5, 2015, an agent for The Judicial Sales Corporation, will at 10:30 AM on January 6, 2016, 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 10515 SOUTH 84TH AVENUE, PALOS HILLS, IL 60465 Property Index No. 23-14-202-004-0000. The real estate is improved with a single family home. 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: Visit our website at service.atty-pierce.com. between the hours of 3 and 5 pm. PIERCE & ASSOCIATES, Plaintiff’s Attorneys, One North Dearborn Street Suite 1300, CHICAGO, IL 60602. Tel No. (312) 476-5500.

Please refer to file number PA1305642.

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.

PIERCE & ASSOCIATES One North Dearborn Street Suite 1300 CHICAGO, IL 60602 (312) 476-5500 Attorney File No. PA1305642 Attorney Code. 91220 Case Number: 13 CH 9550 TJSC#: 35-14544 I676818

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT - CHANCERY DIVISION FEDERAL NATIONAL MORTGAGE ASSOCIATION Plaintiff, -v.DORLITA MINTU, GOLFVIEW TOWNHOMES ASSOCIATION, INC., UNKNOWN HEIRS AND LEGATEES OF DORLITA MINTU, IF ANY, UNKNOWN OWNERS AND NON-RECORD CLAIMANTS Defendants 08 CH 27897 8314 WEST 95TH 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 13, 2015, an agent for The Judicial Sales Corporation, will at 10:30 AM on January 14, 2016, 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 8314 WEST 95TH STREET, HICKORY HILLS, IL 60457 Property Index No. 23-02-411-031. The real estate is improved with a two-story, single-family townhouse with tan vinyl siding and an attached garage. Sale terms: 25% down of the highest bid by certified funds at the close of the sale payable to The Judicial Sales Corporation. No third party checks will be accepted. The balance, 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: Visit our website at service. atty-pierce.com. between the hours of 3 and 5 pm.

PIERCE & ASSOCIATES, Plaintiff’s Attorneys, One North Dearborn Street Suite 1300, CHICAGO, IL 60602. Tel No. (312) 476-5500. Please refer to file number PA0816837. 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. PIERCE & ASSOCIATES One North Dearborn Street Suite 1300 CHICAGO, IL 60602 (312) 476-5500 Attorney File No. PA0816837 Attorney Code. 91220 Case Number: 08 CH 27897 TJSC#: 35-14930 I678154

For Sale

For Sale

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF COOK COUNTY, ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT - CHANCERY ILLINOIS COUNTY DEPARTMENT - CHANCERY DIVISION DIVISION FEDERAL NATIONAL MORTGAGE ASSOCIATION WELLS FARGO BANK, NA (FANNIE MAE), A CORPORATION ORGANIZED & Plaintiff, EXISTING UNDER THE LAWS OF THE UNITED -v.STATES OF AMERICA ROGER A SMITH, SHARON E SMITH, UNKNOWN Plaintiff, OWNERS AND NON-RECORD CLAIMANTS -v.Defendants JAN MIETUS, LUDWIKA MIETUS, DEUVILLE 14 CH 20807 CONDOMINIUMS 9111 FOREST DRIVE HICKORY HILLS, IL 60457 Defendants NOTICE OF SALE PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY 15 CH 08148 GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure 9105 SOUTH ROBERTS ROAD UNIT 1B HICKORY and Sale entered in the above cause on June 11, HILLS, IL 60457 2015, an agent for The Judicial Sales Corporation, NOTICE OF SALE PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY will at 10:30 AM on January 8, 2016, at The Judicial GIVEN that pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure Sales Corporation, One South Wacker Drive - 24th and Sale entered in the above cause on September Floor, CHICAGO, IL, 60606, sell at public auction to 14, 2015, an agent for The Judicial Sales Corporathe highest bidder, as set forth below, the following tion, will at 10:30 AM on January 19, 2016, at The described real estate: Commonly known as 9111 FOREST DRIVE, HICKORY HILLS, IL 60457 Judicial Sales Corporation, One South Wacker Drive - 24th Floor, CHICAGO, IL, 60606, sell at public Property Index No. 18-34-411-032-0000. The real auction to the highest bidder, as set forth below, estate is improved with a single family home with an the following described real estate: Commonly attached 2 car garage. Sale terms: 25% down of the known as 9105 SOUTH ROBERTS ROAD UNIT 1B, highest bid by certified funds at the close of the sale HICKORY HILLS, IL 60457 Property Index No. 23payable to The Judicial Sales Corporation. No third 01-306-026-1002. The real estate is improved with party checks will be accepted. The balance, includa tan, brick, condominium; one car attached garage. ing the Judicial sale fee for Abandoned Residential Sale terms: 25% down of the highest bid by certified Property Municipality Relief Fund, which is calculated funds at the close of the sale payable to The Judicial on residential real estate at the rate of $1 for each Sales Corporation. No third party checks will be $1,000 or fraction thereof of the amount paid by the accepted. The balance, including the Judicial sale purchaser not to exceed $300, in certified funds/or fee for Abandoned Residential Property Municipality wire transfer, is due within twenty-four (24) hours.

Relief Fund, which is calculated on residential real No fee shall be paid by the mortgagee acquiring estate at the rate of $1 for each $1,000 or fraction the residential real estate pursuant to its credit bid thereof of the amount paid by the purchaser not to at the sale or by any mortgagee, judgment creditor, exceed $300, in certified funds/or wire transfer, is or other lienor acquiring the residential real estate whose rights in and to the residential real estate due within twenty-four (24) hours. No fee shall be arose prior to the sale. paid by the mortgagee acquiring the residential real The subject property is subject to general real estate estate pursuant to its credit bid at the sale or by taxes, special assessments, or special taxes levied any mortgagee, judgment creditor, or other lienor against said real estate and is offered for sale without acquiring the residential real estate whose rights any representation as to quality or quantity of title and in and to the residential real estate arose prior to without recourse to Plaintiff and in \�AS IS\� condition. the sale. The subject property is subject to general The sale is further subject to confirmation by the real estate taxes, special assessments, or special court. taxes levied against said real estate and is offered Upon payment in full of the amount bid, the purchaser for sale without any representation as to quality or will receive a Certificate of Sale that will entitle the quantity of title and without recourse to Plaintiff and purchaser to a deed to the real estate after confirmain \�AS IS\� condition. The sale is further subject to tion of the sale. The property will NOT be open for confirmation by the court. Upon payment in full of the inspection and plaintiff makes no representation as amount bid, the purchaser will receive a Certificate to the condition of the property. Prospective bidders of Sale that will entitle the purchaser to a deed to are admonished to check the court file to verify all the real estate after confirmation of the sale. The information. If this property is a condominium unit, property will NOT be open for inspection and plaintiff the purchaser of the unit at the foreclosure sale, makes no representation as to the condition of the other than a mortgagee, shall pay the assessments property. Prospective bidders are admonished to and the legal fees required by The Condominium check the court file to verify all information. If this Property Act, 765 ILCS 605/9(g)(1) and (g)(4). If property is a condominium unit, the purchaser of this property is a condominium unit which is part of the unit at the foreclosure sale, other than a morta common interest community, the purchaser of the gagee, shall pay the assessments and the legal unit at the foreclosure sale other than a mortgagee fees required by The Condominium Property Act, shall pay the assessments required by The Condo765 ILCS 605/9(g)(1) and (g)(4). If this property Stan’s minium Property Act,Hauling 765 ILCS 605/18.5(g-1). IF is a condominium unit which is part of a common Removal of all unwanted (HOMEOWNER), items.

YOU ARE THE MORTGAGOR interest community, the purchaser of the unit at the DEADBOLT HOME/BUSINESS LOCKS From offices, areas, YOU homes, HAVE THE RIGHTstorage TO REMAIN IN POSforeclosure sale other than a mortgagee shall pay garages, apartments, condos, etc. OF AN Installed • Repaired • Re-keyed SESSION FOR 30 DAYS AFTER ENTRY the assessments required by0191-348 The Condominium Reasonable rates.

Lic. 7 days 773-206-9309 ORDER OF POSSESSION, IN ACCORDANCE Property Act,"The 765 ILCS IF YOU Call Tom Lock 605/18.5(g-1).

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Chicago, IL 60606-4650 LICENSED • BONDED • INSURED Sanding • Installation • Refinishing Tel No. (312) 476-5500. Please refer to file number (312) 236-SALE PA1503435.

THE JUDICIAL SALES CORPORARepairs • Free Estimates • Licensed You can also visit The Judicial Sales Corporation at • Interior/Exterior Painting TION One South Wacker Drive, 24th Floor, Chicago, www.tjsc.com for a 7 day status report of pending • Plaster • Drywall Repair IL 60606-4650 (312) 236-SALE You can also visit sales. • Window Caulking • Puttying The Staining Judicial Sales Corporation at www.tjsc.com PIERCE & ASSOCIATES & Varnishing for a 7 day status report of pending One North Dearborn Street Suite 1300 Also: Carpentry & Tile Work sales. PIERCE gonzalezflooring.com & ASSOCIATES One North Dearborn Street Suite CHICAGO, IL 60602 (312) 476-5500 Fully Insured 1300 CHICAGO, IL 60602 (312) 476-5500 Attorney Attorney File No. PA1409333 File No. PA1503435 Attorney Code. 91220 Case Attorney Code. 91220 Case Number: 14 CH 20807 Number: 15 CH 08148 TJSC#: 35-13429 TJSC#: 35-15265 I677182 I677758

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OUT & ABOUT Your Guide to Arts and Events in the Southwest Suburbs and Beyond

The Regional News • The Reporter

Thursday, December 17, 2015

PINTO’S POPCORN PICKS

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:

“In the Heart of the Sea” is directed by Ron Howard and adapted from Nathaniel Philbrick’s nonfi tion book In the Heart of the Sea: The Tragedy of the Whaleship Essex. Chris Hemsworth stars as Owen Chase, the firs -mate of the Essex.

Lack of cohesive plot sinks ‘In the Heart of the Sea’ “In the Heart of the Sea” is a film by director Ron Howard adapted from Nathaniel Philbrick’s acclaimed nonfiction book In the Heart of the Sea: The Tragedy of the Whaleship Essex. This is the story of the so-called real incident that somewhat inspired Herman Mellville’s novel “Moby-Dick.” Is any of this story real? Who really knows?

This film may be based on acclaimed books, but this film is not going to be acclaimed by most. This is a fairly pedestrian telling of a truly heroic story of survival. The film is a jumbled mess that does not really know what it wants to be. Is it a survival story, a story about love, a story about learning to work with others, or is it a story about how we must learn to respect the creatures of earth?

You could even make a claim this is a film about corporate ethics and that money is more important than the well-being of others. There are so many things this film is trying to be that any description won’t properly do this film justice.

This is a truly ambitious film by Howard that doesn’t reach the high standard that he has achieved in previous films. The sheer scale of the film is amazing from the replica of the Essex ship, the cinematography by Anthony Dod Mantle, and the CGI of the whales. It’s a visually stunning film that doesn’t have the screenplay to keep it watchable.

No matter how great a film looks, it still needs a good story.

This sea faring story stars Chris Hemsworth as Owen Chase, the first-mate of the fabled Essex. The ship is led by unqualified rich-boy captain George Pollard (Benjamin Walker). Most of the story ends up being about the two of them although their stories

TONY PINTO are mostly boring. They bicker like an old married couple and it adds absolutely nothing.

The most exciting scene is when the whale comes.

It’s also the most important scene in the film. We need more of the whale and that might make this film better. Here we have the viewpoint of the ship’s crew, but maybe the whale views would be more exciting.

It’s a film that tries to be historically accurate with its scenes, but chooses to overlook certain details. The biggest flaw is that after these whale hunters are stranded at sea for a ridiculously long time they still somehow look fresh. Hemsworth looks like he just washed his hair, took a shower, had a big meal and trimmed his beard. Nothing about him screams stranded at sea. For a film that looks historically accurate, they seem to overlook keeping the actors looking historically accurate.

Ultimately, this film is 121 minutes of slow moving scenes that only slightly make a coherent story. It’s a disjointed story told through the eyes of one of the survivors to future author Herman Melville. “In the Heart of the Sea” never seems to set sail and makes us clamor for a film adaption of “Moby Dick.”

Tony Pinto’s grade: D

OMARR’S WEEKLY ASTROLOGICAL FORECAST

By Jeraldine Saunders ARIES (March 21-April 19): You may sparkle and dazzle the general public with your outgoing style. However, those who are in close connection may be quite busy and leave you feeling isolated for a few days in the early part of the week.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): You don’t need a sledge hammer to swat a fly. You may be so busy juggling a busy schedule that you are heavy-handed with loved ones. Count on partners to offer the support and inspiration in the last half of the week.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): Your views on social issues can shift drastically in the week ahead.

Someone may pressure you to adopt a more broadminded attitude. If you remember to be respectful and discreet you can mingle with dissenters without fear.

CANCER (June 21-July 22): Your tactics are deemed to be trustworthy. You might not always be able to get your way in the week ahead, but no one will doubt your sincerity. You will be

Southwest • Section 2, Page 9

able to sidestep misunderstandings like a toreador.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): You know how to spin a tale. You could even share a whopper of a fish story in the upcoming week. Your exaggerations are unlikely to cause any serious problems unless you overestimate the health of your bank account.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): You may become a victim of the too much, too little, too late syndrome in the week ahead. Your generous instincts may send you off on a shopping spree only to find that what you want to buy is out of your price range.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Get back in the loop in the second half of the week. Responsibilities and necessity may put a damper on your social activities. The new people you meet this week might not be as charming as they seem will offer a refreshing change of pace.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Don’t burn a hole in your credit card in the week ahead. In the enthusiasm of the moment you might make promise you cannot fulfill. Hold off on purchases that might, in hindsight, prove to be

unneeded extravagances.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): You can ask for forgiveness, but don’t overdo it. You may end up like the famous Peter who cried wolf once too often. In the week ahead you might realize that you can’t take anything or anyone for granted.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Use your charm to instill trust.

Those who are suspicious of your motives might be willing to listen to your ideas later in the week.

You may overlook mistakes or be somewhat blind to your own social blunders.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): This is a good week for creative planning and networking. You can use foresight and wisdom to plan ahead, especially with your health, job or work.

Some people you meet may not say what they mean.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): Your reaction to someone’s surface insincerity can spoil your prospects. As this week unfolds you may realize that spur-of-themoment purchases are not the best idea. Work hard and don’t fall prey to doubts and fears.

“MISSION: IMPOSSIBLE — ROGUE NATION”: Some of the franchise’s best stunts fuel the latest entry in the update of the classic TV series, literally getting off the ground right at the outset with Ethan Hunt’s (Tom Cruise) unique and breathtaking way of boarding a departing airplane. He’s an agent without an agency after the CIA shuts down his team, prompting him to act on his own as he re-gathers his colleagues (Jeremy Renner, Simon Pegg, Ving Rhames) to dismantle an organization of rogue operatives. Rebecca Ferguson is an attractive and effective cast addition as an agent of uncertain loyalties, and Alec Baldwin also appears.

The film was written and directed

by Christopher McQuarrie, who also worked with Cruise on “Jack Reacher.” *** (PG-13: AS, P, V) (Also on Blu-ray and On Demand) “TED 2”: The talking teddy bear (voiced again by Seth MacFarlane, also the picture’s returning director and co-writer) is as profane as ever in this amusing sequel, as he runs into trouble in trying to become an adoptive parent with his new wife (Jessica Barth). The problem? Legally, Ted is not considered a person — so he seeks the help of longtime pal John (Mark Wahlberg) and an offbeat attorney (Amanda Seyfried) to navigate the court system and become the dad he wants to be.

Sam J. Jones (“Flash Gordon”) makes a return appearance in a cast loaded with cameos by everyone from Jimmy Kimmel and Jay Leno to Morgan Freeman and Liam Neeson. DVD extras: two “making-of” documentaries; audio commentary by MacFarlane, Barth and co-writers Alec Sulkin and Wellesley Wild; Comic-Con featurette. (R and unrated versions: AS, P) (Also on Blu-ray and On Demand) “MAZE RUNNER: THE SCORCH TRIALS”: The screen adaptations of James Dashner’s

young-adult novels continue with Dylan O’Brien (“Teen Wolf”) back as the leader of the Gladers, who are out of the maze but now into the Scorch ... a treacherous region that poses danger at many, if not all, turns. The group’s quest is to find information to aid their mission against the organization WCKD, but even if they acquire it, surviving to be able to use it still will be a challenge. Thomas Brodie-Sangster, Ki Hong Lee, Kaya Scodelario and Patricia Clarkson also return, and Giancarlo Esposito and Lili Taylor are among other cast members. DVD extras: theatrical trailers; deleted and extended scenes; outtakes; art galleries. *** (PG-13: AS, P, V) (Also on Blu-ray and On Demand) “FANTASTIC FOUR”: Easily one of the most maligned movies of the year, though director Josh Trank (“Chronicle”) famously defended his vision for it via social media, this adventure reboots the Marvel Comics saga of the quartet imbued with amazing abilities after they’re irradiated during a trip to and from an alternate universe.

Miles Teller (“Whiplash”), Kate Mara, Michael B. Jordan (“Fruitvale Station”) and Jamie Bell play the four, who oppose former ally Victor Von Doom (Toby Kebbel) when he plans to use his own powers to destroy Earth and replace it with a planet of his own making.

Reg E. Cathey, Tim Blake Nelson and Dan Castellaneta (“The Simpsons”) also are featured. ** (PG-13: P, V) (Also on Blu-ray and On Demand) “HE NAMED ME MALALA”: Directed by Davis Guggenheim (“An Inconvenient Truth”), this moving documentary traces the story of Malala Yousafzai, the Pakistani teen who would not be stopped in her quest to ensure education for young women ... leading to her being targeted by the Taliban and critically wounded in an attack aboard a school bus.

As she recovered, her voice only became stronger — literally and figuratively — as others heard and helped her carry forth her message, to the point where she addressed the United Nations and was declared the youngest-ever Nobel Peace Prize Laureate. *** (PG-13: AS) “EXTANT: THE SECOND SEASON”: In what ultimately

became its final round, the CBS sci-fi drama underwent a considerable reboot, evident right from the start with astronaut Molly Woods (Halle Berry) separated from her humanoid son (Pierce Gagnon) and taken into government custody as a possible threat to humanity. A very notable cast addition is Jeffrey Dean Morgan (now of “The Good Wife”) as a bounty hunter who’s initially skeptical of Molly, but later intrigued as he believes she can help him on cases he takes. Grace Gummer — a daughter of Meryl Streep — also returns from the first season’s cast, and newcomers also include two alums of “One Tree Hill,” Hilarie Burton (co-star Morgan’s significant other in real life) and Tyler Hilton. *** (Not rated: AS, P, V)

COMING SOON: “WAR ROOM” (Dec. 22): A martially challenged couple (Priscilla C. Shirer, T.C. Stallings) is affected by a woman (Karen Abercrombie) who inspires them to fight for their family. (PG: AS) “BLACK MASS” (Dec. 22): Johnny Depp stars as Boston-mob figure James “Whitey” Bulger, an informant for an FBI agent and childhood friend (Joel Edgerton).

(R: AS, P, GV) “PAN” (Dec. 22): The young Peter Pan (Levi Miller) discovers Neverland, the Captain Hook-tobe (Garrett Hedlund) and the pirate Blackbeard (Hugh Jackman).

(PG: P, V) “HITMAN: AGENT 47” (Dec. 29): An assassin (Rupert Friend) turns on the agency that wants to utilize his very special DNA to create a brigade of similar killers; Zachary Quinto also stars.

(R: AS, P, V) “THE INTERN” (Dec. 29): Robert De Niro plays said intern, who becomes invaluable to an ambitious young boss (Anne Hathaway), in director Nancy Meyers’ comedy. (PG-13: AS, P) “THE PERFECT GUY” (Dec. 29): A woman (Sanaa Lathan) comes to regret getting involved with a stranger (Michael Ealy) who begins stalking her; Morris Chestnut also stars. (PG-13: AS, P, V) FAMILY-VIEWING GUIDE KEY: AS, adult situations; N, nudity; P, profanity; V, violence; GV, particularly graphic violence.

BROADEN YOUR HORIZONS THIS WEEK The Bridge Teen Center programs • Star Wars Movie Night 7:30 to 10:30 p.m. this Friday, The Bridge Teen Center, 15555 S. 71st Court, Orland Park, will celebrate the release of the new “Star Wars” movie by revisiting the old movies that started it all.

Free popcorn will be provided by Costco.

• Project Serve: Thrift Store - 2 to 4 p.m. Dec. 22, students will volunteer their time at a local thrift store by cleaning, sorting and shelving donated items.

• Christmas Karaoke - 4 to 5 p.m. Dec. 22, students will get the chance to get on stage and sing their favorite Christmas song with their friends.

• Hot Chocolate Bar - 2 to 3 p.m. Dec. 23, a hot chocolate bar will be open for students to enjoy before playing some board games.

• Holiday Movie Day: You Pick - 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. Dec. 23, students will get the chance to pick a holiday movie to watch with free popcorn. These free events are for teens in 7th through 12th grade.

For more information call 5320500.

Yulelog service A Christmas yulelog service will be offered on Tuesday, Dec. 22, at 7:30 p.m. at The Center, 12700 Southwest Hwy, Palos Park.

The Yulelog Service features Christmas carols, scripture, stories, and a variety of old-fashioned traditions. The highlight of each evening is the lighting of the huge log and the opportunity for each participant to throw his or her own twig into the fire, symbolizing a fresh start for the New Year.

Special music will be provided

by The Center’s Singers.

The Christmas Story will be read from the Bible by Chris Hopkins. The Rev. Ron Greene

will dramatically deliver his rendition of “Twas the Night Before Christmas.” The Yulelog Service is a night of warm fellowship, good cheer, and Christmas spirit.

Tickets to the Yulelog Service cost $10 per person, are limited in number, and must be purchased in advance. Call 361-3650 for more information.

OUT & ABOUT Your Guide to Arts and Events in the Southwest Suburbs and Beyond

The Regional News • The Reporter

Thursday, December 17, 2015

Southwest • Section 2, Page 10

Photos courtesy Palos Park Recreation and Parks Dept.

All aboard: Santa coming to our town, next stop Palos Park

The Mansini family enjoys a big breakfast before Santa and Mrs. Claus’s arrival during the new Santa is coming to OUR Town event held Saturday morning at the Palos Park Metra train (left photo). Right photo: the Sipple family had a good time making wreaths, stockings and Santa stickers crafts. The event packed the train station with families waiting to see Santa and Mrs. Claus arrive by train. Everyone had breakfast and made crafts as they waited for the North Pole couple to arrive on the 11:31 a.m. train into Palos Park. Guests sang “Santa Claus is Coming to Town” before the beloved couple left again for the North Pole.

WOLFGANG PUCK’S KITCHEN

Tangerines, dried cranberries add sweetness to holiday salad

By Wolfgang Puck

Supplied photo

Space is limited for Orland Park’s Cinderella’s Ball planned for Feb. 6 at the village Cultural Center (former library building), 14760 Park Lane.

Orland’s Cinderella’s Ball returns The village of Orland Park Recreation Department hosts its annual Cinderella’s Ball on Saturday, Feb. 6, from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m., at the Cultural Center, 14760 Park Lane.

The enchanted evening is open to children ages three and older, and all children are to be accompanied by an adult. The royal ball includes a DJ, lots of dancing, a craft, and light refreshments. Children are encouraged to dress up for this magical night.

For those wishing to capture the special

event, Wehmeier Portraits will be on-site providing digital images. Once purchased, the digital photo will be emailed within 24-hours.

Fee is $20 a person for residents and $25 for nonresidents. Space is limited. Registration is available at the Village of Orland Park Recreation Department, 14600 Ravinia Ave., and at the village’s Sportsplex, 11351 W. 159th St. For more, call 403-PARK. — Village of Orland Park

How to recycle your Christmas tree

Supplied photo

The Forest Preserve District of Will County’s annual “Recycle the Holiday Spirit” program starts on Sunday, Dec. 27, and concludes on Sunday, Jan. 10. Give the Earth a gift by recycling your live Christmas tree. Every year, millions of Christmas trees end up in landfill . The trees will take on a new life “path” by becoming mulch for the District’s trails and landscaping efforts. Please remove all tinsel, lights and ornaments before dropping off your tree. This program is for individual households; no commercial tree surplus, please. Trees may be dropped off in designated areas from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Isle a la Cache Museum in Romeoville, Monee Reservoir in Monee, Plum Creek Nature Center in Beecher and Sugar Creek Administration Center in Joliet. For more information, visit ReconnectWithNature.org.

“Try my special salad,” said the hostess at a holiday party I was invited to in the mid-1970s during my early years in the United States. “It’s called ambrosia.”

Now, I don’t want to disrespect anyone who likes ambrosia, and I know many people to this day have fond memories of that oldfashioned mixture of sweetened canned fruit, marshmallows, shredded coconut and whipped cream. I thought it was a dessert at first, but I kept being urged to put some on my plate alongside the ham and turkey.

Especially during the festive season, people like to include sweet things in salads. I do know that a little something sweet tossed in among an assortment of sometimes bitter salad greens creates a salad that offers the yin and yang of savory and sweet flavors with every bite. That’s why I’d like to share my own special salad for your holiday table. No, it doesn’t include marshmallows, shredded coconut or sweet whipped cream.

But my salad does feature a beautiful assortment of fresh seasonal fruits.

Tangerines, Asian pears and dried cranberries complement beautiful deep-green baby arugula leaves, with their very pleasant touch of bitterness, along with crunchy toasted slivered almonds.

Tying the whole kaleidoscope of ingredients together is a spicy and zesty vinaigrette dressing made with reduced citrus juice, fresh ginger, powdered mustard and a little extra-virgin olive oil.

Yes, I said that there’s just a little oil in the dressing. That’s because this salad, on top of everything else, is also healthy, with less than a third of its calories from fat and hardly any sodium per serving. That makes it a perfect counterpoint to all the rich, often sugary or salty foods that usually join them on the plate.

You can also feel free to vary the recipe depending on your own tastes or what you happen to find in the market. In place of the arugula, try substituting other bitter greens like curly endive, Belgian endive or radicchio. Other firm varieties of pear, or even your favorite crispy apple, can replace the Asian pear. If you prefer, use dried cherries, seedless raisins or diced dried apricots in place of the dried cranberries. Try other types of nuts instead of the almonds, or even eliminate the nuts entirely if you’d like to cut back on the fat even more.

I hope you’ll add this recipe to one of your holiday menus, or bring it along as your contribution to a potluck. No, it isn’t ambrosia.

But it will definitely look beautiful and taste great alongside a turkey or ham.

CRANBERRIES AND TOASTED ALMONDS Serves 4 CITRUS-GINGER VINAIGRETTE: • 1/2 cup (125 mL) fresh orange juice • 1/2 cup (125 mL) fresh lemon juice • 2 teaspoons grated fresh ginger • 1/2 teaspoon powdered mustard • 2 tablespoons extravirgin olive oil • Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste ARUGULA SALAD: • 1 pound (500 g) baby arugula leaves • 3 large tangerines • 1/4 cup (60 mL) slivered almonds • 2 Asian pears or firm regular pears, cored, peeled and cut into thick matchsticks, about 3 inches by 1/4 inch (7.5 cm by 0.6 cm) • 1/2 cup (125 mL) dried cranberries • Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste At least several hours ahead of time, prepare the citrus-ginger vinaigrette. In a small nonreactive saucepan, combine the orange juice, lemon juice, ginger and mustard powder.

Bring to a boil over medium heat, and then continue boiling until reduced to 1/4 cup (60 mL), about 10 minutes. Remove from the heat and set aside to cool to room temperature. Pour the cooled

juice reduction into a bowl. Whisk the reduction briskly while drizzling in the olive oil. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Transfer the dressing to a covered container and refrigerate until ready to use.

About two hours ahead, prepare the arugula salad. Fill a large bowl or basin with ice cubes and water.

Rinse the arugula leaves under cold running water, and then immerse them in the ice water to make them extra crispy. Leave to soak for one hour. Drain and pat thoroughly dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels.

Transfer to a plastic bag or covered container and refrigerate until just before serving time.

Preheat the oven to 350 F (175 C).

Peel the tangerines. With the tip of a small, sharp knife, carefully slit the membrane on each of the segments; then, with your fingertips, assisted by the knife if necessary, peel off and discard the membranes. Put the segments in a bowl, cover and refrigerate.

Spread the slivered almonds in a single layer on a baking sheet.

Bake until toasted golden brown, 12 to 15 minutes, checking and stirring every 3 minutes or so.

Immediately transfer to a bowl and let cool to room temperature.

A few minutes before serving, put the arugula leaves in a large salad bowl. Add half each of the tangerine segments, pear pieces, toasted almonds and cranberries.

Add the dressing, season to taste with salt and pepper and toss thoroughly until the leaves are evenly coated. Leave the mixture in the salad bowl or transfer to an attractive serving bowl or individual bowls or plates. Garnish with the remaining tangerines, pears, almonds and cranberries and serve.

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ARUGULA SALAD WITH TANGERINES, ASIAN PEARS, DRIED

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